The Story of Pindola-bharadvaja

This name means “immovable.” After the Buddha entered nirvana, many of his students also did so, one after another. Pindola-bharadvaja was told by the Buddha to stay in this world to be a field of good fortune. Therefore, this venerable is still in this world. The Study Report says: “He would receive offerings from the beings in the Dharma-ending Age and would be a field of good fortune for humans and devas.”

Pindola-bharadvaja resides in this world permanently. If we want to make offerings to the Three Jewels, we can hold a non-discriminating great assembly like the ancients did. In this assembly, the offerings are made to all who attend, without discrimination. There will be saints and sages who come to receive our offerings. When they come, those who hold this assembly will be planting a field of good fortune through their offerings. Pindola-bharadvaja often goes to such assemblies. But since he manifests as a monk, he will not be recognized. He will go to the assemblies hosted by those who are sincere in their offerings.

~ Based on Ven. Master Chin Kung's 2003 lecture series on the Amitabha Sutra

Comments

[Nancy Gaeden]

Hi Wuling, this is "Wu Shue", or rather, Nancy now. I am so pleased with all the work you have done to share your practice and insights. It seems a lifetime ago when we met at Dallas Buddhist Association, before you joined the order. The last time we met was in Singapore, also many years ago. How are you? It has been 10 years since I left the Society,and it seems recently I have been drawn to revisit and reflect. I would love to dialog with you on our experiences and learning, if you would also be interested. Please feel free to email me at my gmail account.
Sincerely,
Nancy

[Venerable Wuling]

Nancy, thanks for visiting and commenting. It's so good to hear from you. I'm writing an email to you now.