Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra

Definition

The Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra is a key Mahayana Buddhist text that outlines the characteristics and practices associated with the Pure Land, specifically focusing on the Western Paradise of Amitābha Buddha. It describes the ideal of attaining rebirth in this Pure Land, where practitioners can achieve enlightenment more easily due to the favorable conditions provided by Amitābha and the absence of suffering.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra emphasizes the importance of faith in Amitābha and the practice of calling his name to secure rebirth in his Pure Land.
2. The text presents a detailed description of the Pure Land, illustrating its beauty and the blissful conditions that support spiritual practice.
3. Practitioners are encouraged to cultivate virtues such as compassion and wisdom while relying on Amitābha's grace for salvation.
4. This sutra played a significant role in the development of Pure Land Buddhism, particularly in East Asian traditions like Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Buddhism.
5. It is often recited and studied by followers as a means to inspire devotion and reinforce their aspiration for rebirth in the Pure Land.

Review Questions

• How does the Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra shape the understanding of rebirth in Pure Land Buddhism?
  • The Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra fundamentally shapes the understanding of rebirth in Pure Land Buddhism by presenting Amitābha's Western Paradise as an attainable goal for practitioners. The text emphasizes that through sincere faith and the recitation of Amitābha's name, followers can secure their rebirth in this blissful realm. This focus on attainable rebirth contrasts with other Buddhist paths, highlighting the accessibility of enlightenment within the context of Pure Land belief.
• Discuss the significance of Amitābha as depicted in the Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra and how it influences Pure Land practices.
  • Amitābha is depicted as a compassionate and powerful figure in the Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra, embodying infinite light and love. His promise to receive practitioners into his Pure Land if they sincerely call upon him greatly influences Pure Land practices. This encourages followers to engage in Nembutsu, or recitation of his name, fostering a strong devotional relationship that underlines their spiritual aspirations. The text encourages reliance on Amitābha’s grace rather than solely on one's own merits, shaping a unique approach within Mahayana Buddhism.
• Evaluate how the teachings of the Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra contribute to broader Mahayana Buddhist thought.
  • The teachings of the Larger Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra contribute significantly to broader Mahayana Buddhist thought by emphasizing compassion, faith, and community support as essential elements for achieving enlightenment. The focus on a specific celestial Buddha and an accessible method for rebirth underscores a shift towards inclusivity within Mahayana practices. This sutra encourages lay participation, making profound spiritual goals achievable for all individuals, which aligns with Mahayana's aim to benefit all sentient beings. Thus, it shapes not only individual practices but also communal rituals that enhance collective faith and support.

Related terms

Amitābha: A celestial Buddha in Mahayana Buddhism who embodies infinite light and life, central to Pure Land practices and veneration.

Nembutsu: The practice of reciting the name of Amitābha Buddha as a means to attain rebirth in his Pure Land.

Pure Land: A realm created by Amitābha Buddha, viewed as a paradise where beings can cultivate virtue and ultimately reach enlightenment.