BUDDHISM > Three conditions
The first of the five guidelines is the three conditions, which were related by the Buddha in the Visualization Sutra. He explained that the three conditions were the true causes of pure karma for all Buddhas of the past, present, and future.
In the Amitabha Sutra, the Buddha further explained that to be reborn in the Western Pure Land, we have to be “good men and good women.” The standard for this is the three conditions; thus, they are a crucial part of our practice, an integral component of birth in the Pure Land.
To achieve this birth, we need belief, vows, and practice—chanting “Amituofo” mindfully and leading a moral life and.
The First Condition:
Be filial and care and provide for parents
Be respectful to and serve teachers
Be compassionate and do not kill
Cultivate the ten virtuous conducts. Physically, we are to refrain from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct. Verbally, we are to refrain from false speech, harsh speech, divisive speech, and enticing speech. Mentally, we are to refrain from giving rise to greed, anger, and ignorance.
The Second Condition:
Take the Three Refuges
Abide by all precepts
Behave in a dignified and appropriate manner.
The Third Condition:
Generate the bodhi mind
Believe deeply in the law of cause and effect
Recite and uphold the Mahayana sutras
Encourage others to advance on the path to enlightenment.