Significance of Buddha land
Buddha land in Mahayana Buddhism encompasses multiple heavenly realms where Buddhas reside, each with distinct qualities. It refers to spiritual domains that embody purity and enlightenment, often linked to specific Buddhas. These realms, which number as numerous as the sands of the Ganges, serve as sacred spaces for teaching and assisting the liberation of sentient beings. Moreover, the concept includes future realms like that of Buddha Dharmaprabhasa, characterized by perfection and the absence of suffering.
Synonyms: Pure land, Sukhavati, Spiritual realm, Nirvana realm, Utopia., Paradise, Western paradise, Blissful land
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Buddha land'
Buddha land in Buddhism encompasses sacred realms associated with Buddhas, characterized by purity, enlightenment, and teachings that guide sentient beings towards liberation, reflecting a cosmic domain of various enlightened worlds and paradises.
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Spiritual realms or environments that are pure and supportive of practice, reflecting the enlightened nature of the Buddhas.[1] (2) Different spiritual realms, each presided over by a Buddha, symbolizing profound levels of enlightenment and purity.[2] (3) The ideal spiritual landscape sought by Bodhisattvas for the benefit of all beings.[3] (4) A spiritual realm characterized by purity and enlightenment, signified by the presence of a Buddha.[4] (5) Different realms or environments where the teachings of the Buddha manifest and where beings can attain enlightenment.[5]
From: Vimalakirti Sutra
(1) A realm where a Buddha resides and teaches the Dharma, characterized by purity and enlightenment.[6] (2) A cosmic world or realm in which a particular buddha dwells.[7] (3) Sacred realms associated with the Buddha's activities and the various dharmas that support the liberation of sentient beings.[8] (4) The various realms or worlds wherein buddhas reside and teach their followers, described as numerous as the sands of the Ganges.[9] (5) The enlightened realms or paradises where buddhas reside; these realms are characterized by purity and exceptional qualities.[10]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) The various realms associated with different Buddhas, often depicting an ideal state of existence that is free from suffering.[11] (2) Sacred realms or domains where Buddhas reside and impart teachings, often symbolizing ideal states of existence.[12]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) The pure realm where the future Buddha Dharmaprabhasa will reside, characterized by its perfection and the lack of suffering.[13]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Various realms or worlds in which Buddhas reside, offering teachings and embodying the principles of enlightenment.[14]
From: The Sutra of Queen Śrīmālā of the Lion’s Roar
(1) The realm or territory associated with a Buddha, characterized by the absence of suffering and evil.[15]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) A spiritual realm where buddhas reside, implying a destination for those with magical power.[16]