念佛三昧稱為寶王者。蓋於一切三昧之中最上三昧者也。首獨唱於廬山。後遍流於天下。歷代所修往生非一。著文於世。證驗良多。自昔至今富於編簡。若禪若教無不尊崇。是聖是凡悉皆景仰。但末代淺根因藥致病。以極樂淨土不求之於西方。而求之於分別緣影。多流此見。內懷痛傷。嗟彼唐喪其功。雖修無感。乃以淨土諸經及各宗疏鈔。採其奧旨述以成編。雖其言之不文。莫敢裁於胸臆。自為警省敢聞於人。故以寶王三昧念佛直指定其名焉。
The Samadhi of Buddha-Recitation is called the King of Jewels because it is the supreme samadhi among all samadhis. It was first proclaimed on Mount Lu, and later spread throughout the world. Throughout the ages, countless practitioners have attained rebirth through it. Many writings have been left behind, and their testimonies are abundant. From ancient times to the present, records fill volumes. Whether in Chan or in doctrinal teachings, all revere it; whether among sages or ordinary beings, all look up to it. However, in this latter age, those with shallow roots often mistake the medicine for the disease. Instead of seeking the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss in the Western direction, they seek it within the discriminating shadows of their own minds. Many fall into this view. With a heart full of sorrow, I lament that they toil in vain—though they practice, they gain no response. Therefore, drawing from the essential meanings of the Pure Land sutras and the commentaries of various schools, I have compiled this work. Though my words are not elegant, I dare not rely on my own judgment. I have written this for my own vigilance and offer it to others. Thus, I have named it *The King of Jewels Samadhi: Direct Guidance on Buddha-Recitation*.