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What is the Pure Land tradition in Mahāyāna?
The Pure Land tradition is a central aspect of Mahāyāna Buddhism, which focuses on the cultivation of compassion and the path of the bodhisattva. It is based on the belief in a pure land or paradise, known as Sukhāvatī, where the Buddha Amitābha resides.
This tradition originated in India and was later developed and popularized in China and Japan. It is based on the teachings of the Amitābha Sūtra, which describes the pure land as a place of ultimate happiness and liberation from suffering. In this tradition, devotees aspire to be reborn in the pure land after death, where they can continue their spiritual journey towards enlightenment.
The Pure Land tradition emphasizes the power of faith and devotion to Amitābha Buddha as the means to attain rebirth in the pure land. This faith is expressed through chanting the name of Amitābha, known as the nembutsu, which is believed to purify the mind and lead to rebirth in the pure land. Devotees also engage in other practices such as visualization and meditation, with the ultimate goal of attaining rebirth in the pure land.
One of the key teachings of the Pure Land tradition is the concept of "other-power," which refers to the belief that enlightenment is not solely dependent on one's own efforts, but also on the grace and compassion of Amitābha Buddha. This is in contrast to the "self-power" approach of other Buddhist traditions, which emphasize individual effort and practice.
The Pure Land tradition also emphasizes the importance of compassion and the bodhisattva path. Devotees aspire to be reborn in the pure land not only for their own liberation but also to help others attain enlightenment. This is seen as the ultimate expression of compassion, as bodhisattvas vow to continue their spiritual journey until all beings are liberated from suffering.
In addition to the aspiration for rebirth in the pure land, the Pure Land tradition also teaches the cultivation of virtues such as generosity, morality, patience, and wisdom. These virtues are seen as essential for spiritual growth and the eventual attainment of enlightenment.
In conclusion, the Pure Land tradition in Mahāyāna Buddhism is a path that emphasizes faith, devotion, and compassion towards Amitābha Buddha. It offers a hopeful and accessible path for practitioners to attain rebirth in the pure land and continue their journey towards enlightenment.