Qing · by 靈耀撰
11,973 · about 40 min
The *Ullambana Sutra Commentary with Balanced Interpretation* composed by the Venerable Master Lingyao of the Qing Dynasty is one of the significant commentaries on the Buddhist scripture *Ullambana Sutra*. This commentary inherits the thought of Patriarch Zongmi of the Tang Dynasty, employing the Huayan School's principle of perfect harmony to elucidate the filial piety spirit and the compassionate aim of universal salvation embodied in the Ullambana Dharma assembly. It systematically discusses the origin, rituals, and merits of Maudgalyāyana rescuing his mother, emphasizing the Buddhist practice of transferring merit to seven generations of parents through making offerings to the Triple Gem. This commentary integrates Confucian filial devotion with the Buddhist concept of repaying kindness, exerting a profound influence on the Chinese Buddhist view of filial piety and the customs of the Ullambana Festival. It stands as a key text for studying the ethics and festive rituals of Chinese Buddhism.