Buddhahood is unsurpassable;
I vow to attain it. 

The fourth vow of attaining the unsurpassable state of Buddhahood is our ultimate goal.

Only as a Buddha can we fulfill our first vow to help all sentient beings, regardless of their form, path, or state of mind.

Only as a Buddha will our generosity, morality, patience, diligence, meditative concentration, and wisdom finally be complete.

Only as a Buddha will our compassion and wisdom be perfectly balanced.

But to accomplish all these, it is crucial we follow the vows in the order given to us. The first vow provides us with our motivation—we make the vow that we will help all beings end suffering and attain lasting happiness. The second, third, and fourth vows provide our roadmap for ending afflictions, learning Dharma doors, and attaining Buddhahood. Without this roadmap, we will not know the necessary steps in which to progress, or even what direction we should head in. With this roadmap to guide us, we will achieve all that we vow to do. 

Dharma doors are boundless; 

I vow to master them all.  

The third of the great vows of Buddhas—mastering all the Dharma doors—is where most people want to start. This is understandable because, with so many wonderful teachings from the Buddha, it’s understandable that people to want to learn all they can.

But until we eliminate our afflictions, trying to absorb the various methods can become yet one more affliction.

Plus, we don’t have time! Our goal here in samsara is to get to the Pure Land. ASAP. Once there, we’ll have an infinite lifetime in which to learn all Dharma doors.

With our remaining afflictions kept in check, we will, with our clear mind, be set to learn different methods without becoming confused or attached. Different beings have diverse needs and capabilities. Mastering all Dharma doors will allow us to know and use the method best suited to every individual’s level and inclination. And thus help fulfill the first vow.