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 rebirth in the Pure Land.

To achieve this rebirth, we need belief, vows, and practice—leading a moral life and chanting Amituofo mindfully.

The First Condition is to:

Be filial to parents

Be respectful to teachers and elders

Be compassionate and not kill any living beings

Cultivate the Ten Virtuous Conducts

The Second Condition is to:

Take the Three Refuges

Abide by the precepts

Behave in a dignified, appropriate manner

The Third Condition is to:

Generate the Bodhi mind

Believe deeply in causality

Study and chant the Mahayana sutras

Encourage others to advance on the path to enlightenment