Question: How should we handle unwelcomed insects appropriately?
Answer: We should always do our best to keep clean in the first place, so that there are less reasons for insects to enter and stay. For those who have entered, especially since they do not endanger our lives anyway, they should not be killed. They should be caught and released in their natural habitats, for example, by using tissue paper to scoop up ants and containers to hold bigger insects.
They should be gently caught, so as to not harm them. The opportunity should be taken too, to sow the seed of pure affinity (净缘), by sincerely reciting Āmítuófó’s (阿弥陀佛) name at least ten times, in the hope that they associate his name with compassion (慈悲), and come across more supportive conditions (助缘) in future, to learn more about how to reach his Pure Land (净土).
For insects hidden and difficult to catch, there should be words spoken sincerely to request them to leave, lest they be accidentally harmed. Recite Āmítuófó’s name amply for them to hear too. There are many cases where many insects will leave discreetly. Such is the power of sincere mindfulness of Buddha (念佛). (For wooden furniture parts that might have termites, they can be removed and put where they will not be harmed, in case some insects are left.)
