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34 EASTERN HORIZON | FEATURES

the paper, there are 247 small circles. His followers from Mainland China, who do not understand much
are instructed to use a black or blue pen to write the of Buddhism. Malaysians and Singaporeans are greatly
names of the sūtra reader and “sūtra seeker”, and then out-numbered by Chinese coming from other parts of
recite the Great Compassion Mantra, Heart Sūtra and the world in the assemblies of Lu Tai-Zhang. We know
some mantras. Upon completing each recitation, they that the Cultural Revolution during 1966–1976 almost
make a red dot in a small circle. When all the 247 circles uprooted Buddhism in China. Because of that not
have been marked, they burn the “Little House” in a many Mainland Chinese really understand Buddhism
particular way prescribed by him. now. Since 1979, new policies have resulted in rapid
economic development in China. However, the non-
The Great Compassion Mantra and Heart Sūtra are economic aspects, such as spiritual development, were
important teachings in Mahāyāna Buddhism but the seriously lacking. Such an imbalance created great
abovementioned superstitious rules made by Lu has opportunities for pseudo-Buddhism, including that of
nothing to do with Buddhism. His “Little House” is not Lu Tai-Zhang, to creep into the minds of the people in
based on any Buddhist scripture nor approved by any China. Even if they have migrated to other countries,
Buddhist master. many of them continue with their pseudo-Buddhist
thoughts.
But then, a question arises: “Mahāyāna Buddhists are
taught to recite the Great Compassion Mantra and Heart Is Lu Tai-Zhang a genuine propagator of Buddhism?
Sūtra faithfully. Why can’t followers of Lu Tai Zhang do
the same? Why do we have double standards?” Let us answer this question by looking at just a few of
the many books which contain the basic teachings of
If recitation is done with deep devotion and with the Lu Tai Zhang. A cursory look at these books is more
right attitude, it may result in miraculous blessings if than sufficient to reveal that Lu makes all kinds of
conditions are right; for example, a “karmic sickness” false statements in the name of Buddhism. In fact, he
which doctors had failed to diagnose or provide challenges many core teachings of the Buddha. (The
prescription is suddenly cured. It is not uncommon page numbers mentioned in the various paragraphs
among Mahāyāna and Vajrayāna Buddhists to share below refer to those found in the original Chinese
such belief and experience. version of Lu’s books.)

However, such “miracles” result from the blessings of Metaphysics Q&A, page 63: Lu Tai Zhang advice is
Buddha or Bodhisattvas, or from a sūtra or mantra that “people who recite sūtras should not frequent
that had been chanted with the right frame of mind. graveyards, funeral parlors, hospitals, or visit seriously
It is definitely not the result of Lu’s blessings nor ill people because spirits (demons) appear at such
the burning of piles of “Little Houses”. Obviously, the places. Those who recite sūtras give off light, and that
continuous chanting of Lu’s name or the two words will easily attract spirits who will come and possess
“Little House” is of no avail. Buddhists must be grateful, their bodies.”
but it is most unwise to be beholden to a mistaken party.
Introduction to the Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door, page
Another commonly asked question is that “Dharma 18: Lu warns that “It is best not to recite the Heart Sūtra
assemblies of Lu Tai-Zhang held in different cities of and Amitābha Pure-land Rebirth Mantra after 10pm, or
Malaysia attract thousands of people. Thus, isn’t it fair during a heavy downpour accompanied by thunder and
to assume that there must be truth in his “Little House” lightning.”
method?”
This nonsensical statement is quite similar to the one
It is true that Lu’s assemblies are always packed, but above that “demons will appear and possess the bodies
the majority of those who attend are foreigners, mainly of sūtra reciters”.