His Holiness the 42nd Sakya Trizin, Ratna Vajra Rinpoche, delivered this teaching online on February 24, 2024, in commemoration of Chotrul Düchen, as part of the Teachings on Sutra series requested by 84000, a nonprofit organization dedicated to translating the complete collections of the Buddha’s words into modern languages.
The Aparimitāyurjñāna Sūtra carries a promise that has resonated since the Buddha first spoke it in the miracle-grove of Śrāvastī: that the "exhaustion" of a life can be revived and its purpose entirely transformed. While many seek out this teaching for its power to grant longevity, the sūtra actually centers on a deeper paradox. It reminds us that while a human life is fragile and fleeting, it remains a "precious vessel"—an opportunity far more valuable than a wish-fulfilling jewel when used to practice the Dharma.
In this teaching, delivered from Bodhgaya on the auspicious festival of Chotrul Düchen in 2024, His Holiness the 42nd Sakya Trizin invites us to look beyond the literal ritual. He speaks directly to the heart of the matter: our motivation. Challenging us to consider why we wish for a long life in the first place, His Holiness uses striking analogies and pith instructions to guide us away from worldly clinging. To engage with this sūtra is not just a quest for more time, but an invitation to shift how we use the time we have for the sake of all beings.
On this auspicious occasion of Chotrul Düchen 2026, this transcript is shared in English and Chinese for the benefit of all. May the precious teachers remain long and healthy, and may we all be inspired to follow in the footsteps of the Buddha, that the sacred Dharma may flourish and all beings swiftly perfect their bodhicitta.
Source: This teaching was obtained from the Translate84000 Youtube.
When the Buddha taught in Śrāvastī, his words were meant to guide beings away from suffering and toward awakening. The Aparimitāyurjñāna Sūtra belongs to this purpose.
It is not a text to be approached lightly. Its meaning unfolds not through speed or quantity, but through sincerity, right intention, and repeated engagement. Even a brief encounter can leave an impression that grows over time, shaping the mind and heart.
Returning to this sūtra again and again allows understanding to deepen, and the mind to align more fully with the path the Buddha showed. Its guidance is quiet, yet enduring—like a river carving through stone, gradually revealing what is essential.
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