RECITE LITTLE HOUSE WITH SINCERITY AND AN ENDEAVOUR TO UPHOLD THE DHARMA
Caller: In the latest episode of Buddhism in Plain Terms, Master advised us that the recitation of Little House is not merely about the speed and quantity. It will only be efficacious when we recite it with sincerity and an endeavour to uphold the Dharma. Master, what does it really mean?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Well, does Little House belong to the Buddha?
Caller: Yes.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Do the four scriptures in Little House belong to Bodhisattva?
Caller: Yes.
Master Jun Hong Lu: So when you are reciting the scriptures, do you consider yourself upholding the Dharma? Do you have to be solemn and respectful?
Caller: Yes.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Do you think you are upholding the Dharma when you perform the recitation casually as if you are singing folk songs?
Master Jun Hong Lu: There is a significant difference when you recite the Little House in a solemn and respectful manner compared to recitation in a flippant tone. You would also want to use such a solemn and respectful tone when you speak to your superior.
Caller: I got it now. In the past radio programs, you advised some Buddhist practitioners to avoid harbouring resentment while reciting Little House. Does it mean that the mindset while reciting Little House also plays a significant role in determining its quality, especially with a sense of gratitude?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It is extremely important. If you recite it with gratitude, the quality of the Little House will be good. For example, when you think, “Deepest gratitude to Bodhisattva for blessing my family! Gratitude for helping my deceased family member to ascend to a higher spiritual realm, and helping me to eliminate my afflictions and karmic obstacles.”
With such a sense of gratitude, the quality of the Little House will be extremely good, just like garnishing a dish with a drizzle of sesame oil will greatly enhance its aroma.
Caller: I understand now.
Source: Wenda20200621 39:00, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
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