Significance of Pure Land
Pure Land, a central concept across various Buddhist traditions, primarily signifies an ideal realm or state of existence. It is often associated with enlightenment, freedom from suffering, and spiritual purity. Within Mahayana Buddhism, it's frequently linked to Amitabha Buddha and the practice of attaining rebirth in this blissful realm. Pure Land can also be a school of thought, emphasizing faith and devotion. Different interpretations exist, with some traditions viewing it as a concrete place, while others see it as a state of mind.
Synonyms: Heavenly realm, Land of bliss, Spiritual paradise, Ultimate happiness, Celestial abode, Paradise, Nirvana, Heaven, Blissful realm, Sukhavati
In Dutch: Puur Land; In Finnish: Puhdas maa; In Spanish: Tierra pura; In German: Reines 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 'Pure Land'
Pure Land in Buddhism signifies ideal spiritual realms, often associated with Amitabha Buddha, where practitioners seek rebirth to attain enlightenment. These realms are characterized by purity, bliss, and are conducive to spiritual practice, representing a desired destination for many Buddhists. It is also a school of Mahayana Buddhism.
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) The incense of the Pure Land is burned, symbolizing purification and connection to a sacred realm, as the Pure Land has religious significance.[1] (2) The provided text shows the Pure Land ethos is an element that is combined with Tendai ideas, particularly in the approach of figures like Ninku, showcasing the complexities of religious categorization.[2] (3) A concept of the Buddhist teachings, that Sheng Yen related to the human realm, as part of his vision of socially engaged Buddhism.[3] (4) The Pure Land is a concept that the FJSF ritual program emphasizes Pure Land contemplation and nian Fo practices, while the TDMY ritual concludes the ritual with a big banquet and the burning of paper money.[4] (5) From a Buddhist perspective it provided reassurances to other believers in the Pure Land, and from the perspective of the grandchildren in this particular story it provided emotional certainty that their grandmother was now okay.[5]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) An idealized state or realm where beings can achieve enlightenment and freedom from suffering.[6] (2) An idealized spiritual realm to which practitioners aspire, attained through purification and cultivation of virtues.[7]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) A Buddhist concept referring to a spiritual realm of peace and bliss, often associated with Amitabha Buddha, where practitioners aim to be reborn as a means of attaining enlightenment.[8] (2) A conceptual space referred to by the demon as the place where enlightenment can be found, misleading individuals.[9] (3) Spiritual realms associated with enlightenment and purity, where beings can pursue higher spiritual attainments.[10] (4) The ultimate realm of spiritual purity and enlightenment to which practitioners aim to cultivate mindfulness of the Buddha and attain rebirth.[11]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) A realm free from suffering ideal for achieving spiritual enlightenment.[12] (2) A land characterized by purity, achieved through the Bodhisattva's pure mind and actions.[13] (3) The ideal realm where a Bodhisattva can lead beings towards enlightenment.[14] (4) A realm of existence free from suffering and impurities, where beings can achieve enlightenment.[15]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) This term refers to a paradise where beings are reborn, and it is associated with a religious movement that emphasizes the name of buddhas.[16] (2) Spiritual realms or states considered ideal for practice and cultivation of virtues according to Buddhist principles.[17] (3) A concept in Mahayana Buddhism referring to a realm of bliss and enlightenment associated with Amita Buddha, sought after by practitioners.[18]
From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra
(1) A state of mind or existence characterized by purity, achieved through spiritual practice and understanding.[19] (2) A Buddhist heaven described as the ultimate spiritual destination, which is perceived as not far when the mind is pure.[20]
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) A desired realm for rebirth in Buddhism, characterized by virtue and conducive to achieving enlightenment.[21] (2) A realm of existence perfect for spiritual practice, often characterized as a goal for practitioners seeking enlightenment.[22]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A concept in Mahayana Buddhism referring to a heavenly realm where beings can achieve enlightenment, especially associated with Amitabha Buddha.[23]
Hindu concept of 'Pure Land'
In Hinduism, Pure Land signifies two concepts. Firstly, it describes Bharata-varsha, emphasizing its spiritual importance and purity. Secondly, it envisions a golden, uninhabited land where anything placed upon it instantly transforms into gold.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A land that is entirely made of gold, devoid of living beings, where any substance placed upon it is instantly converted into gold.[24]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A description of Bharata-varsha indicating its spiritual significance and purity.[25]
The concept of Pure Land in scientific sources
Pure Land is mentioned as one of the Buddhist schools that Nichiren Daishonin urged the government to stop supporting, according to regional sources.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Pure Land thought expanded its influence in the mid-to-late Ming Dynasty, influencing Journey to the West to present the characteristic of Chan Jing He Yi, with Zen serving as an auxiliary method.[26] (2) The Pure Land is likened to a supreme television station that broadcasts Amitabha’s boundless energy, transcending time and space to reach our planet.[27] (3) Honen identified Tanluan as the first of the Chinese Patriarchs of Pure Land Buddhism, and Tanluan is particularly important for many of the key developments in Chinese Pure Land.[28] (4) Pure Land is a Buddhist sect that Sesso initially studied before seeking to delve into Zen philosophy, later criticizing its followers for blindly bestowing their devotion upon Amida rather than placing faith in the Christian God.[29] (5) The Pure Land is where there are no women, according to Zhuhong, and once a woman is reborn there, she will have all the appearances of a Great Man.[30]