ABSTRACT
This chapter concerns about reconciling Pure Land tenets with those of other forms of Buddhism than about showing convincingly that Pure Land cultivation is a valid (as well as comparatively simple) way of achieving the mystic’s goal. Much that was admirable in Chinese Buddhist traditions and institutions had its origin in Pure Land believers’ concern for their fellow beings. The central figure in Pure Land writings is Amitabha Buddha (Boundless Light), who is also reverenced in the form Amitayus Buddha (Boundless Life). Amitabha’s saving power is such that believers may live loosely and be wanting in compassion and yet attain the Pure Land by virtue of their faith. Thus Amitabha’s saving power is attributed to the stupendous force of the compassion felt by a pure being ready to renounce Ultimate Nirvana itself, sooner than leave other beings toiling and moiling in the ocean of sorrows.
