Materials: Bronze, Cast, Painted, Gilded

Dimensions: Approximately 6 cm in height

Description:

Amitābha Buddha, also known as the Buddha of Infinite Light or the Buddha of Infinite Life, is a prominent figure in Mahayana Buddhism. His Sanskrit name means "Infinite Light" or "Infinite Life," symbolizing infinite brightness, longevity, and compassion. He primarily appears in the texts of Pure Land Buddhism, where he is considered the lord of the Western Paradise. Believers believe that through sincere faith and chanting his name, they can be reborn in his Pure Land and escape the sufferings of samsara.

Origin and Story of Amitabha Buddha

The origins of Amitabha Buddha can be traced back to the Indian Mahayana Buddhist canon, appearing in related texts around the 1st century AD. He was first mentioned in texts such as the Sutra of Measureless Life and the Amitābha Sūtra, which are considered key texts of Mahayana Buddhism. According to Buddhist tradition, Amitabha Buddha was originally a bodhisattva named Dharmakara. Countless aeons ago, he made forty-eight great vows (also known as original vows) before the Tathagata Lokeśvararāja Buddha, vowing to establish a perfect pure land where all sentient beings could easily attain rebirth. These vows included the following: Anyone who sincerely recites his name, even just ten times, will be led to the Western Pure Land (Sukhāvatī) at the time of death, where they can practice and attain Buddhahood, unhindered by karmic obstacles.

The detailed story is as follows: After making this vow, Dharmakara practiced and accumulated merit for countless aeons, ultimately achieving enlightenment and becoming Amitabha Buddha. His pure land is described as a paradise free from disease, suffering, old age, and death, filled with lotus flowers, precious trees, and beautiful music, where sentient beings can easily listen to the Dharma. This story emphasizes the power of compassion and faith, offering a more accessible path to liberation than the rigorous practice of traditional Buddhism. The concept of Amitabha Buddha later spread to China and Japan. In China, it was promoted by Master Huiyuan and others, forming the Pure Land School. In Japan, it was founded by Master Honen, becoming a mainstream Buddhist sect. Some traditions identify Amitabha Buddha with Amitayus (Amitayus), or a related being, emphasizing aspects of longevity and wisdom.

This origin reflects the development of Mahayana Buddhism, from the early Theravada school's emphasis on self-cultivation to a faith that places greater emphasis on the power of others (the power of the Buddha), a belief particularly suited to popularization.

The Role of Amitabha Buddha in Buddhist Ritual

In Buddhist ritual, Amitabha Buddha plays the role of a compassionate savior, particularly in Pure Land Buddhism, where he is the central focus. Believers invoke his power through chanting (nianfo), one of the simplest and most widespread rituals in Buddhism. Specifically:

- **Daily Practice and Meditation**: In temples or at home, believers chant "Namo Amitābha Buddha," which is considered a form of meditation that purifies the mind, accumulates merit, and ensures rebirth in the Pure Land. Many ceremonies include group chanting sessions accompanied by bells, drums, and the recitation of scriptures.

- **Funerals and Remembrance Rituals**: Amitabha Buddha plays a particularly important role in death-related rituals. At the time of death or at funerals, monks and family members chant his name, praying that he will guide the deceased's soul to the Pure Land with a golden lotus. This is believed to help the deceased escape the lower realms and enter the Pure Land. This practice is common in Chinese, Japanese, and Tibetan Buddhism.

- **Festivals and Ceremonies**: In ceremonies such as the Ullambana Festival or Amitabha Buddha's birthday (the 17th day of the 11th lunar month), Amitabha Buddha is the primary object of worship. Rituals include the offering of lights and flowers, chanting of sutras, and the release of animals, symbolizing his boundless light illuminating all beings.

**Art and Symbolism**: In temples, Amitabha Buddha is often depicted seated, holding a lotus or in the welcoming mudra, symbolizing compassion and acceptance. These statues are used in rituals, with devotees praying or meditating before them. His Pure Land is also depicted in murals or mandalas as a visual aid.

Overall, Amitabha's role emphasizes "other-power"—dependence on the Buddha's will rather than purely self-effort. This makes Pure Land Buddhism the most accessible of Buddhist traditions, allowing believers of all walks of life to participate in rituals.