四十二章經 COMMENTARY ON THE SUTRA OF FORTY-TWO CHAPTERS

Introduction

Sutra of Forty-Two Chapters covers the essence of the Buddhist teachings. For beginning spiritual practitioners, this sutra is truly the best entry point to the profound Buddha-Dharma.

The first chapter of the Sutra of Forty-Two Chapters clearly illustrates the sequence we should follow in our spiritual practice. The second and third chapters are mainly written for those who are ordained as monastics, while the fourth chapter and the chapters thereafter are guidelines for spiritual practice for people in general. In simple and plain words, the Buddha used vivid metaphors to patiently and repeatedly teach practitioners at different levels of cultivation. He wanted to show people how to reflect on themselves and how to practice the renunciation of evil and cultivation of goodness to bring out their life’s full potential. He laid out a bright path that leads directly toward a state of purity. With these teachings, people can follow the right path and reach a pure state of peace and joy.

Master Cheng Yen’s detailed explanations and apt interpretations have further closed the gap between this sutra and people living in our current time. We hope that those who read this sutra can inspire and encourage each other to walk the path. In doing so, they can share Dharma-joy and obtain the benefits of the Dharma together.

內容簡介

《四十二章經》涵蓋了佛法中的主要精髓，對於初學者而言，是進入浩瀚佛法的一個最佳入門。

首章清楚說明修行的次第，二、三章主要針對出家眾而言，四章以後便普及於一般人的修行方針。而樸實淺白的文字，佛陀生動的譬喻，反覆不同層面的諄諄教誨，都在教導我們如何觀照自心，進而付諸行為如何去惡修善，發揮自己生命的良能，並且明白指示一條直趨光明、清淨的道路，讓大眾循正路而行，以達清淨安樂的境界。

證嚴上人細膩的解說，貼切的詮釋，更將本經與現代大眾拉近了距離，盼能與閱經讀者相互勉勵，並分享法喜、同霑法益。