Visualization Sutra

 

          The Buddha said to Vaidehi, "You and all sentient beings should single-mindedly concentrate your thoughts with one-pointed attention, on the Western Quarter.  How is this to be done? 

 

          All the multitudes of sentient beings who are not born blind and have the sense of sight have seen the setting sun.  Focusing your attention and sitting in the proper posture, you should face the West.  Contemplatively examine the sun, with your mind firmly fixed upon it.  Firmly concentrate upon the setting sun and do not let your sight wander from it.  It should appear like a (red) drum suspended above the horizon. 

 

          Once the sun is visualized in this way, then whether the eyes are shut or open, it can be clearly seen.  This is the image of the sun and is called the First Visualization.

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