Stories of Sheng Zhen Men
Why understand the situation first if I already want help from a particular deity?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
The deity you want to approach and the help actually needed may differ. Clarify the problem, where things are stuck, and suitable approaches, rather than simply following a method decided beforehand.
When clients arrive wanting Lord Bao, for example, we still listen to grievances and difficulties before suggesting divination to understand events. If divine assistance is needed, we arrange accordingly. If trained, capable demon-subduing practitioners can handle it, they should use their learning.
I compare this to consultation: describe your condition before identifying a suitable approach. Do not decide the answer before understanding the problem. Several methods may address one issue, so consider what the person can currently accept and manage before deciding how to assist.
Recitation and prayer also depend on specific needs. Any scripture can provide positive blessing, but that does not require invoking the same deity for everyone. With deceased relatives, people often first think of Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva, while investigation may suggest Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun or Medicine Buddha instead. Understanding the need helps match subsequent work to it.