Three Periods of Mindfulness Buddha Service (三時繫念佛事)

About 三時繫念佛事

Song · by 延壽述

6,659 · about 22 min

The Three Periods of Mindfulness Buddha Service was compiled by the eminent monk Yanshou of the Song Dynasty. This scripture emerged during the flourishing period of Chinese Buddhism, when the practices of Chan (Zen) and Pure Land were integrated. Its core content centers on Amitabha Buddha as the principal deity, guiding practitioners through a structured three-period ritual to focus their thoughts on the splendors of the Pure Land and vow to be reborn there. The ritual incorporates various practices such as sutra recitation, chanting the Buddha’s name, visualization, repentance, and making vows, aiming to liberate the deceased and bless the living with longevity. In Buddhism, the Three Periods of Mindfulness is one of the key ceremonies in the Pure Land tradition, reflecting the fusion of Chan and Pure Land teachings. It has profoundly influenced later Chinese Buddhist rituals and folk beliefs, making it an important text for the study of Chinese Buddhist ceremonies.