Pure Land Buddhism Flashcards
What is Pure Land Buddhism?
a Mahayana form of Buddhism based on the belief in Amitabha Buddha.
Who is the Amitabha Buddha?
the Buddha worshipped by Pure Land buddhists. He was a king who renounced his throne to become a monk.
What is Sukhavati?
The paradise where Amitabha Buddha lived and where Pure Land Buddhists aim to be reborn.
What did Honen aim to do?
Eliminate the intellectual difficulties in Buddhism and meditation. He taught you just had to chant to gain a rebirth into the Pure Land.
Who is Avalokiteshvara?
The Bodhisattva of compassion. As he was about to achieve nirvana and when he did decided he should stay in the realm to help other beings achieve it. Mahayana Buddhists pray to him in times of need.
Why did Amitabha create the Pure Land?
Out of his compassion and love for all beings.
What do Pure Land Buddhists believe will happen if they are reborn into the Pure Land?
They will be taught by Amitabha himself and have a better chance of attaining Buddhahood. There is also no suffering in the Pure Land.
What did the Larger Sutra say about the Pure Land?
‘It is rich in a great variety of flowers and fruits, adorned with jewel trees.’
