Lesson 16

Can the final thought before death change the direction of our next life? In Lesson 16 of the Ksitigarbha Sutra, Khenpo Sodargye shares the story of a butcher who spent his life killing but sincerely recited Amitabha Buddha’s name as death approached.

This lesson explains why the final moments of life matter, how virtuous actions benefit the deceased, what beings may experience during the forty-nine-day intermediate state, and why we should practice while we are still healthy.

What you will discover

① Why the final state of mind is so important ② How a butcher reportedly attained rebirth in the Pure Land ③ How much merit the deceased receive from others’ good deeds ④ Why we should practice before illness and death arrive ⑤ How families can help during the forty-nine-day period ⑥ Why offerings must be made sincerely and carefully