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About Amitabha Sutra & Universal Door & Heart Sutra

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Feedback From Previous Runs:

Namo Amituofo! I attended your Faith Factor class as well as join the Pureland Practice Fellowship. Attending your English Dharma classes has thus far been enjoyable, enlightening and inspiring. Through this connection, I could participate in other Dharma activities by other Buddhist organizations. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Keep up the good work. - Wah Khoon

Thanks Brother Shi’an for conducting both the Understanding of Amituofo and Faith Factor courses. It is an eye-opener for me. Your great effort in translating really helps a lot because I can’t read Chinese… I really had no knowledge of Amituofo until I attended the courses. I will follow the guidance and have the Faith, Aspiration and Practice to go to Amituofo’s Pure Land. – Amituofo, Iris

The course is very good, it further strengthen my faith in Amituofo’s Pure Land. Also, as most of the materials are NOT a repeat of the Amitabha Sutra course, it is very refreshing…. All the materials (slides, information, stories) are useful and necessary. Thank you very much for conducting this course. - Amituofo, Vui Min

Thank you for running the class & making the lessons interesting to learn. – Abrie

It’s another great Buddhist sharing, this course, to enlighten us on the answers to the ’10 Doubts about Pure Land’. The contents shared are indeed very diversified and comprehensive. I remember one of the interesting things that captivated me was the sudden turn of event (slides on a topic)… to the magnificent golden image of Amituofo, which motivated me even further to be reborn in Pure Land …. Hope to meet you again in another class when our good karmic affinity ripens. With Metta, Tuck Khuen

Feedback From Related Classes:

“Dharma Teacher Shi’an is very sincere and earnest in delivery of his courses. Always filled with many interesting and creative analogies or metaphors to let us have a better idea and understanding. The various creative media used and implementation of the element of humour brings the Dharma classes alive without boredom, very often allowing me to feel inspired and invigorated with renewed energy after the lessons. Really appreciate the amount of effort Teacher Shi’an put into preparing his classes. Hope that the work of Teacher Shi’an will continue and benefit more of us!” - Ricky

“The course was taught in a manner which could be easily comprehended by someone with minimal knowledge of Buddhism. Thank you for your efforts in motivating all participants by making the lessons interesting through sharing of real stories, and for relentless encouragement of us to nianfo. 功德无量! Amituofo.” – Jos

“I enjoyed all the 10 lessons. They were all excellent and I have gain much knowledge.” - Gerald

“Thank you very much for your class. I have learned very much from you and it inspires me to want to practise more. Thank you.” - Fucai

“I feel that your frequent use of examples to illustrate your points is very useful to me, especially as a beginner who find some topics rather abstract. It is also these examples used that makes the lessons interesting…” - Danny

“Thank you very much for having these sessions. Hope to see you again.” – Amituofo, Alex

“Hi Shi’an, appreciate very much for your teaching. The lessons are really valuable. The materials are well prepared and carefully written. They are very useful for recap. Initially I was quite hesitant to register for the course. I thought I would probably drop out mid way because it was on Saturday – a day when my work schedules are tight, and the location [Kong Meng San for 10th Run] is quite inconvenient for me.. but your lessons were really so knowledgeable and interesting, that I wouldn’t want to miss them. In fact, I had been looking forward to them. Among all, I found that the topic about the interruption between each life [due to death]… to somewhat have an awakening effect on me. Since then, I have started to nianfo everyday, and it has been consistently carried out for 3 weeks! I hope I have all the time to continue the practice and be mindful of Buddha every moment. I will recommend your teachings to my friends and family members.” – Thanks & Regards, Mee Nah

“Thank you very much for your sharing of Pure Land practice. I have enjoyed every session of the course. I had supposed it to be a serious and dull subject. However, you had made it interesting and fun through your jokes and excellent illustrations. Unfortunately, I missed the last session due to a family commitment. The course structure flowed very well and is very suitable for a layperson to understand Pure Land Buddhism in a progressive manner. Your constant encouragement to get us to clarify our doubts through email [and in person] was very useful. Now, I have a much better understanding of Pure Land practice. I look forward to furthering my understanding and practice on Pure Land Buddhism. Thank you once again.” – Amituofo, Lar Kee

“Thank you for the teaching and sharing of experiences. I also like to thank Brother Steven for sharing his experience with all of us. It showed us how someone practised what was learnt.” – Amituofo, Lisa

“Dear Bro. Shi’an, ‘The Gift of Truth Excels All Other Gifts.’ Thank you for sharing the Pure Land Teachings with us. You have delivered the teachings in a very concise, interesting and creative manner. We enjoyed the lessons very much and have benefitted a lot from them. We are glad to have an excellent Dharma teacher like you in the Buddhist world. Sadhu! Sadhu! Sadhu! Amituofo!” – With appreciation, Tuck Khuen, Amy, Ivy, Doris & Joey

‘Very informative and lively lessons. Lecturer Shen makes the wonder.’ - Huan Xi

‘My wife and I were there. I must say that you are extremely engaging; there was never a dull moment in the 2 hours (of each lesson)… It has been really enriching and enlightening…’ - Teng Leng

‘I enjoy your teaching and your jokes to keep us awake… haha.’ - Regards, Tracy

‘拨歪导正，引领群迷’ - Zhi Hai

‘I have enjoyed every session of your interesting teaching so far. And I am sure I will continue to enjoy the rest too.’ - Lar Kee

‘I must say I have been enjoying your classes very much and I find the stories inspiring.’ - Yin Fong

‘I would like to take this opportunity to let you know that I enjoy attending your Saturday evening classes…’ - Yalin

‘Thank you for the series of good and beneficial courses. Really enjoyed them and now have a better understanding of Amituofo… The pace and the build-up of the sessions is good, and you have made it very easy to follow and understand. Thank you for making them so lively and wonderful!’ - Camilly

‘It is great that you are committed to the propagation of the Dharma (and I must say that you do have a ‘gift’ for making it accessible)… I hope you will continue the good work in propagating the Dharma in the simple and interesting way that is characteristic of your style. With the Greatest Bodhicitta, William‘

‘Your teachings thus far has raised my faith factor and I am grateful to you for your sharing… I appreciate your generous sharing of the Dharma Teachings. It is indeed a very admirable deed. May the merits of the Triple Gem continue to bless you. I found your teachings educational, and to have enhanced my spiritual life.’ – Jenny

‘Thanks for sharing about Amituofo… Your lessons keep people coming back. Congrats for your great job!’ – Jina 

“I am in your class. I like the way you teach – very funny and not boring. Otherwise, I can fall asleep quite fast!” - Diana

“Dear Teacher Shi’an, I would like to thank you for sharing your [email] write-up… I truly enjoy reading it and understand Buddhism better. Appreciate your constant sharing with us.” - Eliza

“Thank you so much for teaching us about Amituofo and Pure land. Truthfully speaking, I was amazed and didn’t expect that there’s so many teachings for the above.” - Silvi

“8 lessons had attended (so far), I had turn with conviction. Thanks.” - Andrew

“This is rare opportunity hearing a good Dharma session about the Pure Land of Amitabha Buddha. Please accept my deepest bow and true appreciation of what you have organized.” - Hardy

Enjoyable class and topic. Always looked forward to Saturdays because of the class. Thank you! - KM Teo

“I would like to thank you very much for your tireless teaching during your stay in Jakarta. The seminar really gave me a whole new perspective on Buddhism… I couldn’t have made a better decision than registering. A lot of the teachings were affirmative and complementing of what I’ve understood about Buddhism so far.” - William

“I had the impression that it would be a ‘dry’ and boring class initially. Thank Buddha you have the ability to make us giggle or laugh during class. It is a ‘good investment’ to sign up for your class.” - Irene

“Thanks for the very interesting sessions. It has been an enjoyable experience attending your class… Thanks for the very inspiring 10 sessions.” - Bee Lay

“Dear Brother Shi’an, We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to you for conducting the Amitabha Sutra class. You are able to explain the sutra clearly and have provided excellent examples and illustrations. My husband, Lawrence, and I, together with our friends truly enjoy your class and we have gained a better understanding Amitabha Sutra. We also want to thank the volunteers for manning the registration booth every Saturday and the ushers… Once again, thank you for your excellent teaching.  Rejoice. Namo Amituofo!” - Lay Ling & Lawrence

“The Amitabha Sutra class that you are conducting is really Great, Informative, Enlightening and Beneficial. We start to appreciate the Sutra and Buddha’s Teaching more…  Amituofo.” - Choon Fah

“Thanks very much for weeks of enlightening and insightful edutainment. The ‘before/after effect’ (like Marie France) of Pureland teachings is indeed profound. I must say I’ve progressed rapidly in ‘faith, vows and practice’, thanks to your passionate and generous sharing.” – Han

“Thank you for the insightful answers! I look forward to Lesson 2 this Saturday.”  – Amituofo, Yong Guan

“I should also thank you because you have inspired me to spread these wonderful Dharma especially about the Pureland to more people.” – Amituofo, Huan Ghee

“Ha ha ha u are a funny guy. Every time during the class, we look at your action and the way u give us example really make me laugh. Tks and keep up the good job.” - Sherlis

“U r one of the best teachers I ever seen.” - Maggie

“Creative presentation… Very motivated and knowledgeable.” - Brenda

“Very relevant, very well-researched, very informative, knowledgeable and inspiring.” - AL Lim

“Instructor is very very very good.” - KH Lee

“Very applicable [lessons]… He [teacher] knows how to relate to people and make suitable analogies.” - Lay Eng

“Teaching is very lively, interesting, [and teacher is] knowledgeable.” - Irene Ng

“[Teacher is] very skilful and very knowledgeable.” - Lay Keow

“[Teacher is] approachable, knowledgeable and helpful.” - CC Lim

“[Teacher] interacts with the audience well.” – Melvin

“[Teacher is] very resourceful and speaks clearly. [Course is] very informative. I am glad I attended this course. I found my spiritual goal.” - Meow Lin

“Interesting mix of visuals, videos, testimonials, slides and co-relation between the different [Buddhist] practices.” - Suzanne

“Use of analogies and examples help for understanding concepts. Testimonials help to to strengthen faith. Use of graphics and videos make the contents more interesting.” - Rebecca

“Good introduction, especially to the curious.” - HH Lau

“Very informative… It’s interesting to listen again [by attending again in future].” - Nicole

“[Teacher is] very skilful, informative and interesting… Very good, should make it more lessons.” - CF Lim

“The course has let me know more about Amitabha Buddha and his Pure Land and increased by faith more and more.” - Ruth

“Great. Thank you.” - Cathy

“[Teacher is] relatable, able to explain concepts well. [Course is] informative, entertaining and interesting.” - Wei Ting

“Good knowledge and enthusiasm demonstrated. Good research and presentation…” “Thank you for your kind effort in promoting Pure Land practice. Amituofo!” - Anon8

“Keep up the good work – sure go Pure Land.” – FS Lam

“[Teacher is] very good, experienced, able to explain things in simple concise manner, and is friendly and approachable…” “Look forward to more of such courses in English. Well done!” - LK Loh

“[Teacher is] well versed in Buddhism and able to explain clearly.” - SH Voon

“His passion and compassion for the Pure Land teaching is very evident!” - LH Heng

“[Lessons] flow smoothly with ample examples… [Teacher is] knowledgeable and proficient.” - CH Kok

“Well presented. [Teacher] has passion for whatever he is teaching.” - Siying

“Very comprehensive notes complemented by informative emails. Excellent teacher. Teacher Shi’an is a very dedicated teacher. He is able to relate the sutra to us in an easy-to-understand manner. The lessons flow very well and are well paced.” - Lay Ling & Lawrence

“[Teacher is] very skilful, passionate and knowledgeable. This is a very good course. It helped to clarify a lot of my doubts and strengthened my faith.” - VM Ho

“[Teacher is] humorous and adorable.” - WK Koh

“Just want to let you know that I have enjoyed your 10 lessons on Understanding Amituofo. I now have a better understanding about Buddhism. I am looking forward to your new classes, please let me know the dates and place when available.” - Josephine Yap

“The instructor is very motivational and impactful.” – Meilin

“I think your lessons are very much well prepared. You have done much research. I can understand that it is difficult to do that. Well done! What matters most to me is the content. And you are humourous and friendly as well. Excellent!” - PS Chan

“Thank you for an educational and interactive first lesson. Fresh perspective and insight gained. My hubby and I enjoyed it thoroughly. Look forward to the next class. We enjoy every lesson. The path to Pure Land is simple and fuss free. Coming from the past 15 years of Theravada Buddhist teachings’ background, this is refreshing and would certainly add depth on our Dharma pursuits. We have never had a structured and systematic education on Buddhism of any branch although all our lives we are connected to it from birth. The laoshi (teacher) Shen Shi’an is engaging, witty and knowledgeable. Teacher is very well prepared, eloquent, knowledgeable and systematic. - Lye Wai Fun

“I really enjoy the class. Thanks for making the class interesting and engaging.” - Hazel

“Thank you for conducting the class on Pureland Buddhism. It was funny yet insightful.” – Louisa

“Information is well put across in a congruent and easy to absorb and systematic manner.” – Tingji

“Thanks for delivering such an interesting presentation that is beneficial for us to have a better fundamental understanding of Buddhism. The organising committee is very committed to make this class a success, and tried their best to provide a conducive environment for the participants.” - Yong Leow

“[The teacher is] very knowledgeable.” – Candy

“Many thanks for your interesting lesson at the Amitabha Sutra class yesterday. I enjoyed it thoroughly.” – Kok Leong

“The trainer has done an excellent job in bringing Mahayana teachings to English-speaking Buddhists. He is able to dispel the myth that Chinese Buddhism is suitable only to illiterate old men and women. May the trainer be able to help more sentient beings to contact the teachings. May Buddhas and Bodhisattvas support him in his endeavor.” - Anon3

“It was an enlightening session for the lesson that you have conducted today. Thank you for imparting the knowledge on the ‘crash course’ (on Buddhism for the first lesson). Things I learn in your lesson today: To re-ignite my compassion to all beings, including those that I previously do not like due to heavy office politics. Your passion in Buddhism that energised my learnings. It was another informative session yesterday and I can understand the concept well, through your interesting presentation.” – Jeffrey

“[The teacher] is lively and can sustain attention.” - Anon4

“There are many comparisons to our daily lives to reinforce learning.” - Anon1

“This is a great course. I am thankful for this affinity that led me to this course and enable me to start walking the spiritual path.” - Anon2

“[The teacher] can explain very well!” - Bee Ting

“[The teacher is] well researched and well prepared.”– Jono

“Instructor allows us to email him questions in doubt which benefits beginners.”- Anon5

“Yes, very good and very relevant. You have also made it very interesting.” – Pearly

“[The teacher is] knowledgeable and humorous. The course is very informative and interesting.”- Anon6

“[The teacher is] a well learned practitioner.”– Richard

“Very engaging style of presentation.”- Anon7

“Straight to the point with good illustrations.”– Lam

“I enjoyed the first lesson yesterday night as you were an engaging and humourous teacher. Thanks.”– Yingying

“Many thanks for the inspiring sharing on 10 July.”- Hui Ping

“I find the course informative and delivered in an interesting manner.”– CH

“Many thanks, Shi’an! It was a very fruitful learning experience! Amitoufo!” - Jennifer

“Must tell you that we enjoy your class. It is very comprehensive, with easy to understand and lively presentation.”– Rita

“Your clarion call on high importance and high urgency of learning the route to Pureland was depicted with a ‘think out of the box’ (manner) effectively. Witty dialogue on the multi-purpose use of Amituofo’s name remains vividly in my mind. Leaves us much to practice. Thank you for being a wonderful teacher by bringing the Dharma to us in a simple, interesting and fun way. In all the classes, we had been educated and entertained! It was the very first time that we ever attended a structured course, though we are ‘Buddhists” all our lives. Lessons were joyfully taught by a highly knowledgeable and energetic instructor who engaged your attention and captivated your imagination by the power of interesting visuals and sometimes comical parables.” – Lye Wai Fun

“Dear Bro Shi’an, I really enjoy your class on Amituofo. Learn many things everytime I go for the class. Today’s testimonial is also really inspiring! Amituofo” - Tiong Han

“Brother Shi’an, You are a great teacher; your teachings alone are a tremendous inspiration to those like me who have good karmic affinity to listen to you. You sold and I bought the ticket to Pureland on the very first lesson in March last year. That’s how inspiring you are! Thank you. 阿弥陀佛 _()_ ” – Steven

“Thanks for the guidance. I have re-evaluated your advice and implemented it. The outcome is encouraging. Thank you for your statement that kept me motivated and not giving up. Thanks for making a difference in our lives.” – Jeffrey

“Hi Shi’an, I want to thank you for giving me better insights of the sutra, as well as instilling in me more faith. I am very thankful that I have the opportunity to attend your class. It is very difficult to find good English Buddhist classes and interesting teachers. I hope you can conduct more classes so we English educated ones would not miss the opportunity to understand and appreciate the Buddhist teaching and to reach Pure Land. Your class is super, never one moment boring and time just flies. I wish it never ends. Every moment is motivating, interesting, soft-selling but never forcing, well presented and delivered. Very good visual and presentation material. I believe that only those with faith and passion like you could conduct such classes. Academics would present and speak without conviction, but your easy style and passion makes the class alive, interesting and motivating. Shi’an good job!! Please don’t stop, we need your guidance. Thank you again.” - Amituofo, Pauline

About Shen Shi’an 沈时安: An independent BuddhistAn independent Buddhist teacher, writer, poet, translator and editor, he was one of the founding members of the Dharma Propagation Division of Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery (Bright Hill Temple in Singapore) in 1997. Holding an MA in Buddhist Studies, which covered the major Buddhist traditions, he served as a Dharma Trainer and Project Coordinator in its Community Development & Training Department until 2011, focusing on Buddhist research, writing, teaching and answering of media queries. He was the founder of the temple’s Youth Mission (now ‘KMS Youth’), a book purchaser for its Awareness Place project, and the Chief Editor of the Web (and Library) Department, which co-supported Buddhanet.net, a popular Buddhist education website.

He is the founder and editor of TheDailyEnlightenment.com since 1997, one of the world’s largest independent Buddhist inspirational e-newsletters with over 29,900 members, the editor of ‘Be a Lamp Upon Yourself’, ‘The Stonepeace Book (Volume 1-2)’, ‘Awaken: Gateway to Buddhism (CD-ROM)’ and the writer-editor of ‘The Daily Enlightenment: Reflections for Practising Buddhists (Book 1-6)’ and ‘The Amazing & Amusing Adventures of Sam & Sara: The Zen of All Kinds of Stuff!’ He also translates sutras and commentaries, and contributes occasionally to magazines such as ‘Nanyang Buddhist’, ‘Awaken’ (for which he was a Contributing Editor), ‘For You (Information)’, and ‘Eastern Horizon’. He served with the film selection team of a Buddhist film festival, writes movie reviews for BuddhistChannel.tv, the world’s leading Buddhist news network, and popularised Dharma@Cinema, an innovative way of sharing the Dharma through detailed reviews and discussions of both popular and offbeat films.

Specialising in the Pure Land teachings, he has taught the subject at Singapore Buddhist Federation, Kong Meng San, Pu Ji Si Buddhist Research Centre and Poh Ming Tse, while leading an ongoing weekly Pureland Practice Fellowship. He is also frequently invited to conduct Dharma discussions for youths of tertiary institutions’ Buddhist societies (NUSBS, NTUBS, SIMBB, NYPBS, NPBS) on various subjects, and to introduce Buddhist life perspectives at Secondary Schools (St. Patrick’s School, Manjusri School), Junior Colleges (Catholic Junior College) and International Schools (UWCSEA, SJII).

He was also invited to share on Buddhism by Dharma Drum Mountain (Singapore), Fo Guang Shan (Singapore), Tai Pei Buddhist Centre, Singapore Buddhist Mission Youth, Singapore Buddhist Youth Mission, Wat Ananda Youth, Buddha of Medicine Welfare Society, The Buddhist Union, Buddhist Fellowship (Singapore) and Kampung Senang. He has also been invited to Indonesia and Malaysia to teach. He was a committee member of the Inter-Religious Organisation, through which he served in interfaith harmony projects by writing and giving of public talks. He has represented Buddhist points of view at governmental events conducted by NACLI, NHB, NHG, SAF, SPF, MHA, ACM, SPM, STB, OnePeople.sg, IRCC and MCYS. He also co-runs Moonpointer.com, a community blog that promotes creative sharing of Buddhism via thousands of articles. He can be reached at tde [@] thedailyenlightenment.com for invitations to share the Dharma.

Interview In Buddhist Magazine: http://moonpointer.com/new/2011/07/interview-with-shen-shian

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Register: tinyurl.com/dabeiclass

Feedback From Previous Rounds:

Thank you for painstakingly explaining every vow, giving a lot of examples and analogies that are innovative, relevant and interesting… and sharing of many Dharma stories. Every lesson helps to strengthen our faith and aspiration to go Pure Land… Thank you for sharing the Dharma… I have learnt a lot. Amituofo, Meow Lin

I always enjoy your lessons. - Bee Lan

Thank you very much for your clear teachings. : ) It’s indeed my blessing to be able to understand more about Amituofo through what you have taught. I am very grateful. Thank you. - Hock Chye

I really enjoy your lessons. Prior to meeting you I have read some of your books and have been a TDE subscriber for years. I am a beginner actually. So what you shared is interesting and informative to me… I signed up for 48 vows without knowing anything about Amituofo except it is a ‘mantra’! I am glad I did! You are very good at conducting such lessons in an interesting and lively manner, with very good visual effects too. I really appreciate your time and effort put into your research, detailed interpretations and guidance. Attending your ’48 Vows’ and ‘Understanding Amituofo’ courses has further strengthened my faith. My husband and I are very encouraged to take on the practice more seriously. We are looking forward to more of your courses. As the year is drawing to a close, I thank you, not just for the recent lessons, but also for all these years, for what I have learnt from your books and publications. I also sincerely wish that you are always blessed to continue your great work in sharing the Dharma. - Jenny

You are a really ‘Wonderful’ instructor. I really enjoy your class. It so interesting, so interactive. Looking forward for your class every week. A million thanks. - Wallace

Thank you Brother Shi’an for the painstaking planning, preparing and presenting of the course! The amount of research put into the numerous slides for the very interesting and mind-blowing knowledge-sharing sessions (and notes) is indeed commendable! We enjoyed the sessions and fellowship sessions and wish that everyone who attend them do too. We now believe that our aspiration to go to Pure Land has become stronger. We’ll definitely recommend people to attend the next run. Amituofo! Tio Siang & Jacqueline

Btw, I enjoy every single lesson and your effort is definitely appreciated! Amituofo, Monica

Dharma Teacher Shi’an is very sincere and earnest in delivery of his courses. Always filled with many interesting and creative analogies or metaphors to let us have a better idea and understanding. The various creative media used and implementation of the element of humour brings the Dharma classes alive without boredom, very often allowing me to feel inspired and invigorated with renewed energy after the lessons. Really appreciate the amount of effort Teacher Shi’an put into preparing his classes. Hope that the work of Teacher Shi’an will continue and benefit more of us! - Ricky

I would like to take this opportunity to say I enjoyed your lessens. They are very interesting. Many thanks. - Lilian

Thanks, Brother Shi’an for conducting the class. You had put in a lot of effort to explain in English. - Iris

Feedback For Related Class: tinyurl.com/praiseforclass (scroll after click)

About Shen Shi’an 沈时安: An independent BuddhistAn independent Buddhist teacher, writer, poet, translator and editor, he was one of the founding members of the Dharma Propagation Division of Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery (Bright Hill Temple in Singapore) in 1997. Holding an MA in Buddhist Studies, which covered the major Buddhist traditions, he served as a Dharma Trainer and Project Coordinator in its Community Development & Training Department until 2011, focusing on Buddhist research, writing, teaching and answering of media queries. He was the founder of the temple’s Youth Mission (now ‘KMS Youth’), a book purchaser for its Awareness Place project, and the Chief Editor of the Web (and Library) Department, which co-supported Buddhanet.net, a popular Buddhist education website.

He is the founder and editor of TheDailyEnlightenment.com since 1997, one of the world’s largest independent Buddhist inspirational e-newsletters with over 29,900 members, the editor of ‘Be a Lamp Upon Yourself’, ‘The Stonepeace Book (Volume 1-2)’, ‘Awaken: Gateway to Buddhism (CD-ROM)’ and the writer-editor of ‘The Daily Enlightenment: Reflections for Practising Buddhists (Book 1-6)’ and ‘The Amazing & Amusing Adventures of Sam & Sara: The Zen of All Kinds of Stuff!’ He also translates sutras and commentaries, and contributes occasionally to magazines such as ‘Nanyang Buddhist’, ‘Awaken’ (for which he was a Contributing Editor), ‘For You (Information)’, and ‘Eastern Horizon’. He served with the film selection team of a Buddhist film festival, writes movie reviews for BuddhistChannel.tv, the world’s leading Buddhist news network, and popularised Dharma@Cinema, an innovative way of sharing the Dharma through detailed reviews and discussions of both popular and offbeat films.

Specialising in the Pure Land teachings, he has taught the subject at Singapore Buddhist Federation, Kong Meng San, Pu Ji Si Buddhist Research Centre and Poh Ming Tse, while leading an ongoing weekly Pureland Practice Fellowship. He is also frequently invited to conduct Dharma discussions for youths of tertiary institutions’ Buddhist societies (NUSBS, NTUBS, SIMBB, NYPBS, NPBS) on various subjects, and to introduce Buddhist life perspectives at Secondary Schools (St. Patrick’s School, Manjusri School), Junior Colleges (Catholic Junior College) and International Schools (UWCSEA, SJII).

He was also invited to share on Buddhism by Dharma Drum Mountain (Singapore), Fo Guang Shan (Singapore), Tai Pei Buddhist Centre, Singapore Buddhist Mission Youth, Singapore Buddhist Youth Mission, Wat Ananda Youth, Buddha of Medicine Welfare Society, The Buddhist Union, Buddhist Fellowship (Singapore) and Kampung Senang. He has also been invited to Indonesia and Malaysia to teach. He was a committee member of the Inter-Religious Organisation, through which he served in interfaith harmony projects by writing and giving of public talks. He has represented Buddhist points of view at governmental events conducted by NACLI, NHB, NHG, SAF, SPF, MHA, ACM, SPM, STB, OnePeople.sg, IRCC and MCYS. He also co-runs Moonpointer.com, a community blog that promotes creative sharing of Buddhism via thousands of articles. He can be reached at tde [@] thedailyenlightenment.com for invitations to share the Dharma.

Interview In Buddhist Magazine: http://moonpointer.com/new/2011/07/interview-with-shen-shian

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Praise For Classes : tinyurl.com/praiseforclass (scroll after click)
51 Book Reviews : thedailyenlightenment.com/2012/07/reviews-of-sam-sara
Get Book : thedailyenlightenment.com/store

About Shen Shi’an 沈时安: An independent BuddhistAn independent Buddhist teacher, writer, poet, translator and editor, he was one of the founding members of the Dharma Propagation Division of Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery (Bright Hill Temple in Singapore) in 1997. Holding an MA in Buddhist Studies, which covered the major Buddhist traditions, he served as a Dharma Trainer and Project Coordinator in its Community Development & Training Department until 2011, focusing on Buddhist research, writing, teaching and answering of media queries. He was the founder of the temple’s Youth Mission (now ‘KMS Youth’), a book purchaser for its Awareness Place project, and the Chief Editor of the Web (and Library) Department, which co-supported Buddhanet.net, a popular Buddhist education website.

He is the founder and editor of TheDailyEnlightenment.com since 1997, one of the world’s largest independent Buddhist inspirational e-newsletters with over 29,900 members, the editor of ‘Be a Lamp Upon Yourself’, ‘The Stonepeace Book (Volume 1-2)’, ‘Awaken: Gateway to Buddhism (CD-ROM)’ and the writer-editor of ‘The Daily Enlightenment: Reflections for Practising Buddhists (Book 1-6)’ and ‘The Amazing & Amusing Adventures of Sam & Sara: The Zen of All Kinds of Stuff!’ He also translates sutras and commentaries, and contributes occasionally to magazines such as ‘Nanyang Buddhist’, ‘Awaken’ (for which he was a Contributing Editor), ‘For You (Information)’, and ‘Eastern Horizon’. He served with the film selection team of a Buddhist film festival, writes movie reviews for BuddhistChannel.tv, the world’s leading Buddhist news network, and popularised Dharma@Cinema, an innovative way of sharing the Dharma through detailed reviews and discussions of both popular and offbeat films.

Specialising in the Pure Land teachings, he has taught the subject at Singapore Buddhist Federation, Kong Meng San, Pu Ji Si Buddhist Research Centre and Poh Ming Tse, while leading an ongoing weekly Pureland Practice Fellowship. He is also frequently invited to conduct Dharma discussions for youths of tertiary institutions’ Buddhist societies (NUSBS, NTUBS, SIMBB, NYPBS, NPBS) on various subjects, and to introduce Buddhist life perspectives at Secondary Schools (St. Patrick’s School, Manjusri School), Junior Colleges (Catholic Junior College) and International Schools (UWCSEA, SJII).

He was also invited to share on Buddhism by Dharma Drum Mountain (Singapore), Fo Guang Shan (Singapore), Tai Pei Buddhist Centre, Singapore Buddhist Mission Youth, Singapore Buddhist Youth Mission, Wat Ananda Youth, Buddha of Medicine Welfare Society, The Buddhist Union, Buddhist Fellowship (Singapore) and Kampung Senang. He has also been invited to Indonesia and Malaysia to teach. He was a committee member of the Inter-Religious Organisation, through which he served in interfaith harmony projects by writing and giving of public talks. He has represented Buddhist points of view at governmental events conducted by NACLI, NHB, NHG, SAF, SPF, MHA, ACM, SPM, STB, OnePeople.sg, IRCC and MCYS. He also co-runs Moonpointer.com, a community blog that promotes creative sharing of Buddhism via thousands of articles. He can be reached at tde [@] thedailyenlightenment.com for invitations to share the Dharma.

Interview In Buddhist Magazine: http://moonpointer.com/new/2011/07/interview-with-shen-shian

Register : tinyurl.com/dabeiclass

Feedback From Previous Rounds:

Like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation of your effort in conducting the sessions. Steven and myself thoroughly enjoyed every lesson. Though it was just 2 sessions (so far), I felt energised after the class and try to cultivate some self-reflection on my thoughts daily as time goes by… You are a fantastic and interesting teacher. - Pris & Steven

I attended your Project Rebirth class yesterday (as the first lesson) and I learnt a lot from it. - Kelly

Thumbs up for blending (the materials) so well and your good Powerpoint presentation skills. Your sense of humour is remarkable but unneeded to wow your audience. I can’t fault you and think you deserve every single praise as rightly dedicated below : ) - Ming Rui

Thank you very much for the Project Rebirth materials. It is wonderful to have such concise information. I really feel as if I have found the spiritual source I have been searching for. If not for you and your words, I may not found the right path. I will read everything you sent me, and also look forward to share them with my friends. Once again, thank you for offering a very enlightening and informative (course and) website. I am very happy to learn how to apply Buddhism in daily life. Best Regards, Sheila

Desiring to learn increases learning; by learning wisdom increases; when wisdom increases, it brings happiness. Thank you so much, and I wish you all the best. - Cheng Wan

I do find myself progressing better, slightly, as I attend your classes. The course does not only provide me with a better understanding of Buddhism, it also given me the courage to step forward to help those around me. - Annie

Thanks for this wonderful course. You have so much things to share, that maybe 10 lessons is not enough? :-] Through this course I have decided on three things: 1) Become a vegetarian or vegan 2) Take the Threefold Refuge and 3) Learn more about Buddhism. Buddhism does make me a better person, thanks again. – Amituofo, Leng

Just wanna let u know that I thought project rebirth is a good class. - Jarene

Thanks for taking effort to send us the notes. Have enjoyed your lessons very much. – Amituofo, Clarice

Thank you. I really enjoyed your lessons. I am looking forward to the next course… – Best regards, Wai Ling

The last lesson was really good! Cos the last 3 parts have the things that I’m interested to know, like karma and rebirth, Buddhist rituals, and refuge. And I learnt a lot in a single session. It was easy to understand. And it’s interesting too.’ – Regards, Yicai

Thank you for enlightening me on Buddhist thought. I attended your course as I wanted to know more about life, and how to be contented and happy with oneself… After attending each of your sessions, I also emailed your notes to my husband for his reading, and he too, finds them enlightening and beneficial for becoming a better person… Thank you for doing a GREAT job and giving me some inspirations in my life. – Regards, Swee Khoon

Hi Shi’an, thank you for running Project Rebirth. I have learnt much. - Adel

Hi Shi’an… I would like to say that I enjoyed the sessions of Project Rebirth very much. This is my first course with you and I totally enjoyed it! Kudos! - Sze Jie

I was in the class for Project Rebirth round 2… I attended this round (4) as was accompanying my friend. Positive feedback for this round – I noticed that you have more diagrams and slides prepared which helps participants to relate much better to the concepts. – Wendy 

I really enjoy EVERY session. Every session is a golden opportunity to be free from mundane distractions, and I treasure each moment of learning, relearning, discovery, rediscovery and reflection. I am just so full of energy after each session, though my body is tired at the end of the day. Thank you so much for bringing us these sessions. I benefited so much from them. I have a strong urge to continue learn after this session. - June

Dear Brother Shi’an, Thank you for your effort in sharing the Dhamma… Coming from a Theravada background, your teaching is lighthearted and inspiring… Please keep up the good job. - Jasmine

Both my husband and myself have benefited much from Project Rebirth. The illustrations, analogies and video clips were refreshing and easy to relate, thus making the lessons very interesting, prolonging our attention span and ease in understanding. Deep gratitude. Keep up the good work of propagating the Dharma. Metta, Joyce & Andrew

Shi’an, many thanks for all the enlightening Dharma sharing and discussions!… The sessions have been helpful for me to ponder and see life in a different light. Will help you spread the word for the upcoming run! - Han Yang  

Thank you again for the very interesting class!… The course content is easy to relate to as the teacher supplements it with the usage of movies and everyday examples. Open discussion of topics related to the course content is also encouraged, thus making the learning process more meaningful. Overall, the course has been an enriching experience. Amituofo, Ling

Hi Bro Shi An, I one of your students who are currently attending your Project Rebirth. I’m really enjoying it… Thanks… Sincerely, I’m looking forward to your next advanced course. Please keep me in the loop… – Ivan

I have been interested in Buddhism since I was young but I am embarrassed to say I have never practiced it diligently. Nor have I joined any Buddhist group, though I have always endeavoured to try and keep to the teachings of Buddhism. I joined Project Rebirth so as to receive a formal and proper introduction to the basic teachings of Buddhism, and I must say I have achieved a better and more accurate understanding of Buddhism after the course.  - Leo

Though I started attending Project rebirth from the 5th lesson, there was still much Dharma for my learning, and I enjoyed every lesson attended. I did hestiate to attend Project rebirth because of the location, but am glad I gave myself a chance to learn. And thanks to you for sharing the Dharma. - Abrie

I want to thank you for conducting this course. I’ve been reading Buddhism materials (although not diligently) since year 2004 and couldn’t understand most of its teachings… Having a busy lifestyle coupled with commitments and responsibilities, I find it really helpful to attend Buddhism classes like this as it helps me to put aside time to listen and learn about Buddhahood. - Caryn

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn Dharma from you. I walked into the class on day 1 with very little knowledge of Buddha and Dharma; as I mostly do self-reading. Now, I walk out with my mind and heart filling with the Buddha and Dharma.  Now, it is up to me to put Dharma into daily practice… I truly benefited a lot from your sessions and hope that many others like me will start this journey with you soon. Till we meet again, take care! Amituofo, YT

About Shen Shi’an 沈时安: An independent BuddhistAn independent Buddhist teacher, writer, poet, translator and editor, he was one of the founding members of the Dharma Propagation Division of Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery (Bright Hill Temple in Singapore) in 1997. Holding an MA in Buddhist Studies, which covered the major Buddhist traditions, he served as a Dharma Trainer and Project Coordinator in its Community Development & Training Department until 2011, focusing on Buddhist research, writing, teaching and answering of media queries. He was the founder of the temple’s Youth Mission (now ‘KMS Youth’), a book purchaser for its Awareness Place project, and the Chief Editor of the Web (and Library) Department, which co-supported Buddhanet.net, a popular Buddhist education website.

He is the founder and editor of TheDailyEnlightenment.com since 1997, one of the world’s largest independent Buddhist inspirational e-newsletters with over 29,900 members, the editor of ‘Be a Lamp Upon Yourself’, ‘The Stonepeace Book (Volume 1-2)’, ‘Awaken: Gateway to Buddhism (CD-ROM)’ and the writer-editor of ‘The Daily Enlightenment: Reflections for Practising Buddhists (Book 1-6)’ and ‘The Amazing & Amusing Adventures of Sam & Sara: The Zen of All Kinds of Stuff!’ He also translates sutras and commentaries, and contributes occasionally to magazines such as ‘Nanyang Buddhist’, ‘Awaken’ (for which he was a Contributing Editor), ‘For You (Information)’, and ‘Eastern Horizon’. He served with the film selection team of a Buddhist film festival, writes movie reviews for BuddhistChannel.tv, the world’s leading Buddhist news network, and popularised Dharma@Cinema, an innovative way of sharing the Dharma through detailed reviews and discussions of both popular and offbeat films.

Specialising in the Pure Land teachings, he has taught the subject at Singapore Buddhist Federation, Kong Meng San, Pu Ji Si Buddhist Research Centre and Poh Ming Tse, while leading an ongoing weekly Pureland Practice Fellowship. He is also frequently invited to conduct Dharma discussions for youths of tertiary institutions’ Buddhist societies (NUSBS, NTUBS, SIMBB, NYPBS, NPBS) on various subjects, and to introduce Buddhist life perspectives at Secondary Schools (St. Patrick’s School, Manjusri School), Junior Colleges (Catholic Junior College) and International Schools (UWCSEA, SJII).

He was also invited to share on Buddhism by Dharma Drum Mountain (Singapore), Fo Guang Shan (Singapore), Tai Pei Buddhist Centre, Singapore Buddhist Mission Youth, Singapore Buddhist Youth Mission, Wat Ananda Youth, Buddha of Medicine Welfare Society, The Buddhist Union, Buddhist Fellowship (Singapore) and Kampung Senang. He has also been invited to Indonesia and Malaysia to teach. He was a committee member of the Inter-Religious Organisation, through which he served in interfaith harmony projects by writing and giving of public talks. He has represented Buddhist points of view at governmental events conducted by NACLI, NHB, NHG, SAF, SPF, MHA, ACM, SPM, STB, OnePeople.sg, IRCC and MCYS. He also co-runs Moonpointer.com, a community blog that promotes creative sharing of Buddhism via thousands of articles. He can be reached at tde [@] thedailyenlightenment.com for invitations to share the Dharma.

Interview In Buddhist Magazine: http://moonpointer.com/new/2011/07/interview-with-shen-shian

As the Buddhas
help immeasurable beings,
from this they personally
gather immeasurable merits.

- Stonepeace (Part 1)

Is it possible to do certain good deeds to solve specific problems? Of course, karmically speaking, this is possible – provided that the right seed is planted and nurtured with the right conditions for the appropriate fruit desired. For example, if one suffers from having generally poor karmic affinity with others due to habitual anger, the practice of loving-kindness meditation will lessen it, thus improving one’s relationships. However, there are some other beliefs pertaining to problem-solving that might seem more mystical and inexplicable. For instance, there is the traditional belief that donating money for the printing of sutras (Buddhist scriptures) can help transform dull-mindedness to wisdom. In a similar vein is the contributing of funds for the running of Dharma libraries. Some nominal Buddhists, though having some faith in the workings of cause and effect, might be unwilling or lazy to learn the Dharma via classes and talks, while being open to transforming their life situations via donations and such. Is it possible that their wisdom simply grow this way? And what kind of merit-making can improve romance and career, which are more common and worldly concerns?

The immediate and fastest way to gain wisdom is to study the actual sutras (already or) being printed, and to read the books in the library, so as to practise and realise the Buddha’s teachings directly! Other ways are surely slower. Merely helping to produce and distribute Dharma books will help nurture others’ wisdom when they learn the Dharma through them. If one does not study and practise the Dharma personally, how can wisdom suddenly arise? However, it is true that one who generously and gladly supports propagation of the Dharma with genuine rejoice is likelier to have more conditions to cultivate wisdom later, just as one provided those conditions for others. The fact that there is enthusiasm to contribute already shows that one has some wisdom, knowledge of the value of the Dharma, even if that person is not fully interested in delving more deeply into it yet. There is however, the deepening of some interest and affinity with the Dharma, which increases one’s more ready delight in the Dharma when encountering it in the future, be it in this life or a next.

What if one donates on the behalf of others who have no interest in the Dharma at all, dedicating the merits of doing so to them? Does this help in hastening their ripening of wisdom? To have one voluntarily create merits for another, the latter must have some good karma to deserve this assistance. This dedication can help to some extent, but not exactly as above. For example, if a child does not like to study, and the mother gives books to other kids, it means she appreciates education; not that her child does. She thus increases conditions for herself to have better education in the future. The child will still need to plant the seed of personal interest in studies – through self-effort, perhaps in tandem with more efforts by the mother or someone else, before the shared merits can kick in as conditions to grow the fruit of more interest in learning. The child’s knowledge and rejoice in the mother’s good deed helps too. If dedication of merits can increase another’s wisdom, we would all be enlightened already – as there are countless Buddhas with immeasurable merits dedicating as much as possible to us! As such, they also use their compassion and wisdom to manifest all kinds of skilful means to spur our interest in the Dharma.

According to ‘Chapter Seven: Benefiting the Living and Deceased’ (利益存亡品第七) in the ‘Sutra of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s Fundamental Vows and Merits’ (地藏菩萨本愿功德经), the Bodhisattva taught thus: ‘If there are men and women, whom when alive, do not cultivate good causes, and create many of all kinds of misgivings, after their lives end, family members little and great, for creating blessings [merits] to benefit all noble [Dharma] matters, of seven parts, [the deceased] then receive one, with six parts of meritorious virtues [merits], of the living ones self-benefit from. As such, thus, in the future and now, good men, women and others, when strong and healthy, should self-cultivate [merits], with every part [of merits] self received.’ (若有男子女人，在生不修善因多造众罪，命终之後，眷属小大，为造福利一切圣事，七分之中而乃获一，六分功德，生者自利。以是之故，未来现在善男女等，闻健自修，分分己获。) As a natural law, only one-seventh of the meritorious blessings one personally creates can be shared with another through interconnected collective karma. While merits are partially ‘transferable’, wisdom, however, cannot be transmitted this way. To attain Buddhahood, we have to cultivate and perfect both our merits and wisdom (福慧双修).

To better situations romantic and careerwise, before creating merits via less direct means, one should reflect upon one’s own character with the Dharma as a guide, to know and see what cause the problems, so as to rectify them accordingly; instead of looking for quick fixes via giving money to ‘buy’ one’s way out. Generosity is important, but actual remedial action to change oneself is important too. Specific issues can also be brought up before trained counsellors and good Dharma teachers for advice. For helping others with the same problems, as above, the nurturing of personal wisdom takes priority. One can share wisdom on resolving the issues, or encourage seeking solutions via seeking counsellors and teachers too. The creating and dedicating of merits to help them, also as above, might not be as swift and effective as hoped for, so long as the key seed of wisdom has yet to be planted. However, we should still do our best to share merits, in order to provide more conducive conditions for them to more easily sow this seed for effecting substantial breakthroughs.

As the Buddhas
gather immeasurable merits,
with them they universally
help immeasurable beings.

- Stonepeace (Part 2)

The power of personal sincerity
connects and resonates with
the power of universal truth.

- Stonepeace

Faith is like a ring, a grommet; the Buddha’s compassion is like a hook, or shepherd’s crook. The two can connect and Buddha’s blessings can enter wherever there is openness to such grace. This is illustrated by the tale of the old woman who attained spiritual awakening with the help of a dog’s tooth. The faithful have always venerated the teeth and bones of saints as sacred relics; these remains are thought to have become imbued with spiritual presence.

Once there was an old woman whose son was a trader. Often he joined a caravan and went to distant India on business. One day his mother said, “Bodh Gaya in India is the place where the perfect Buddha was enlightened. Please bring me a blessed relic from there, a talisman I can use as a focus for my devotions. I shall place it on the altar, pray and bow to it as a material representation of the Buddha’s blessed body.” Many times she repeated her request.

However, each time her son returned from a business trip to the holy land of India, he realized that he had forgotten his mother’s fervent plea. For several years he failed to bring her what she had asked for. One day, as he was getting ready to depart yet again for India, his mother said to him. “Son, remember my words on your journey. This time, if you do not bring me a relic from Bodh Gaya to use for my prostrations, I shall kill myself in front of you!” He was shocked by her unexpected intensity. Vowing to fulfill his mother’s wish, he left.

At last, after many months, his business affairs were completed and he approached his homeland. Again he had forgotten to acquire for his dear old mother a genuine relic of the Buddha. It was only when he approached his mother’s house that he remembered her words. “What am I going to do?” he thought. “I haven’t brought anything for Mother’s altar. If I arrive home empty-handed, she’ll kill herself!” Looking around in dismay, he spotted the dessicated skull of a dog lying by the roadside. Hastily, he tore a tooth from the jaw and proceeded to wrap it up.

Reaching home, he reverently presented this package to his mother. “Here is one of the Buddha’s teeth,” he said. “I acquired it in Lord Buddha’s native land, India. You can use it as a support for your prayers.” The old woman believed him. She had faith in the tooth, believing it to be from Lord Buddha himself. She constantly offered prostrations and prayers to it as the veritable embodiment of all the Buddhas. Through such practices she found the unshakable peace of mind she had long sought.

Miraculously, from the dog’s tooth emanated countless tiny translucent pearls and swirls of rainbow light. All the neighbours were delighted to find such blessings free for the taking at the old woman’s altar, where they gathered daily. When the old woman finally met death, a canopy of rainbow light surrounded her, and everyone recognized in the beatific smile on her wizened face that she had attained spiritual exaltation. Although a dog’s tooth in itself contains few blessings, the power of the woman’s unswerving faith ensured that the blessings of the Buddha would enter that tooth. Thus a mere dog’s tooth became no different from an authentic relic of the Buddha, and many were uplifted.

The Snow Lion’s Turquoise Mane: Wisdom Tales From Tibet

without losing enough focus
on what has consequences
after this life.

- Stonepeace

Question:

Answer: We should realise that as long as far from enlightenment, we will have craving, and if so, when it comes to food, it is better that this craving, be it subtle or strong, be based on kinder, wiser and healthier choices, than more cruel (due to sustained demand for supply of breeding, slavery, exploitation and slaughter of sentient beings), less wise and healthy ones. This is creating a more wholesome habit, versus supporting the ongoing habit of going for animal produce based on craving for mere taste for most cases. We have the power of choice, which affects sentient lives.

Of course, we should reduce craving even for vegan food, but introducing good vegan food through gatherings is a skilful means to show one another how we eat better, especially for newbies. This is based on the Right Thought of compassion on the Noble Eightfold Path, with no intention to create craving at all. (The practice of vegetarianism/ veganism is a powerful practice of compassion and wisdom because of these reasons: http://www.moonpointer.com/vege/10.htm)

Related Article:
Why Veganism Is Not An Extreme Way Of Life
http://thedailyenlightenment.com/2010/01/why-veganism-is-not-an-extreme-way-of-life

Practising for learning
is just as important as
learning for practising.

- Stonepeace (Get Books)

After years of solitary meditation in a cave, interspersed with visits to Milarepa, Gampopa finally completed his training and was ready to leave his master… Gampopa asked him for final instructions. Milarepa, however, simply said, “What is needed is more effort, not more teachings.” And he would say no more.