Commentary on the Sutra of Divining the Requital of Good (佔察善惡業報經義疏)

About 占察善惡業報經義疏

Ming · by 智旭撰

42,051 · about 140 min

Commentary on the Sutra on Divining the Retribution of Good and Evil Karma was composed by the eminent monk Zhixu of the Ming Dynasty, serving as an authoritative commentary on the Sutra on Divining the Retribution of Good and Evil Karma. Zhixu was one of the four great monks of late Ming Buddhism, proficient in the Tiantai and Pure Land schools, among others. This commentary systematically elucidates, in accordance with Tiantai doctrine, the Dharma methods expounded by Bodhisattva Kṣitigarbha regarding the retribution of good and evil karma, divination, and repentance, emphasizing the infallibility of cause and effect and the importance of practical cultivation. The sutra presents the method of divining karmic obstacles through wooden wheel signs, providing devotees with concrete means to eliminate negative karma and transform their destiny. This commentary holds a significant position in Buddhist history, serving as a key text for studying the Kṣitigarbha Dharma methods and the philosophy of karmic retribution. It profoundly influenced Buddhist practice during the Ming and Qing dynasties and continues to be regarded as an essential guide for cultivation within Chinese Buddhism to this day.