Hi Dharma-friends! In this episode, we continue the section "Pure Land Hymns on the Right, Semblance and Last Dharma Ages."  Shinran is really making the case that he finds himself (and, therefore, we also find ourselves) in the Last Dharma Age - a very difficult time to find Awakening for ordinary beings such as us.  Shinran is impressing upon us the need to entrust ourselves to the Primal Vow and say the Name, Namo-Amida-Butsu. That is the one guaranteed way to enlightenment.  As Shinran says "...The Buddha's path alone is pure. / Only by going forth and reaching enlightenment can we benefit others / In this burning house; this is the natural working of the Vow."  It is a message of supreme confidence. Hope you are well and peaceful.  Please come back for the next five wasan in this series soon.  Also, check out the American Buddhist Study Center website ambuddhist.org for more good content. Palms together, Gary