Description

Amitābha Buddha (Sanskrit: Amitābha), also known as the Buddha of Immeasurable Light, Buddha of Infinite Life, and Buddha of Boundless Merit, is a central figure in Mahayana Buddhism. According to Mahayana sutras, Amitābha made profound vows immeasurable kalpas ago to establish the Western Pure Land (Sukhāvatī), a realm of ultimate bliss designed to liberate countless beings and perfect infinite virtuous merits. These deeds have earned him profound reverence and widespread devotion within Mahayana traditions.
Key scriptures such as The Infinite Life Sutra, The Amitabha Sutra, and The Sutra on the Contemplation of Amitayus Buddha provide detailed accounts of Amitābha’s virtues and his Western Pure Land. In regions where Mahayana Buddhism flourishes, including China and Japan, devotion to Amitābha holds exceptional significance. The Pure Land school of Chinese Buddhism, in particular, focuses exclusively on rebirth in his Western Pure Land through faith and practice.