This benefit means that those who have shinjin (faith in Amida) are protected against various influences from
external evil forces. Thus, the nembutsu follower has no reason to be afraid of
sorcery, black magic or evil spirits. Shinran Shonin said in Hymns of Benefit in the Present:
"Those
who deeply entrust themselves to the Buddha's teaching are protected by all the
gods of the heavens and earth, who accompany them just as shadows do
things."[1]
„When we say
‚Namo Amida Butsu,’
All the
benevolent gods of the heavens
Protect us
constantly, day and night.
When we
say 'Namo Amida Butsu',
The four great deva-kings together
Protect us constantly, day and night,
And let no evil spirits come near.
The four great deva-kings together
Protect us constantly, day and night,
And let no evil spirits come near.