The so-called sectarianism of Buddhism in Japan has enabled Pure Land Buddhism to develop as a quasi-independent tradition within Buddhism. One of the central figures
Just one Buddha, instead of all Buddhas We have previously discussed why, in order to ensure rebirth in the Land of Bliss, Pure Land practitioners should
Buddha-invocation signifies reliance on Buddha-power To attain rebirth in the Land of Bliss, Pure Land practitioners are advised not to mix Amitabha-invocation with other Buddhist
“Return to Amida, Return to Amida, So even dewdrops fall,” wrote the Soto Zen hermit Ryokan (1756–1831) famously, and throughout his life he exhorted those
Faith is not genuine if the practice is not always active Master Shandao (613–81) introduced an important concept about faith in Amitabha’s deliverance and the
What is next after we place our faith in Amitabha’s deliverance? One is considered to have established the two kinds of deep faith when one
One of my aspirations as a journalist of religion is to explore how to better recount and share the teachings of Buddhism with more people.
One day my daughter asked me, “Dad, I know ‘Western’ religion emphasizes belief in God. However, if someone asks me what Buddhists believe, what should
Four years ago, one of my best friends visited Hong Kong. The first cultural landmark I took him to was Chi Lin Nunnery, which I
The Two Other Kinds of Perseverance It is joyful to read the books written by Master Shandao, the de facto founder of Pure Land Buddhism,
If you have ever felt joyful upon hearing of Amitabha Buddha’s deliverance and admittance to his Pure Land, you are now on the right track
Shakyamuni’s “Secret Message” for Ultimate Liberation Many people have the general impression that Buddhism is very difficult to understand. Just as in many other subjects,
