Fun Things to Discuss About Pure Land Buddhism
Pure Land Buddhism is one of the lesser known Buddhist traditions in the West, but it is widespread in Japan and China. Unlike Tibetan Buddhism, which involves a vast panoply of saints and demons, the practice of Pure Land Buddhism is simple and straightforward, consisting entirely of gratitude to the Buddha Amitabha and the chanting of his name.
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Significance of Amitabha
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Discussions of Pure Land Buddhism must begin with the subject of the Buddha Amitabha, on whom the entire tradition is based. The premise that a person's salvation is dependent on the ministrations of the Buddha Amitabha, rather than on the efforts of the individual himself, is different from the beliefs of other schools of Buddhism, which teach that an individual must work out his own salvation. Discuss how this trust in another figure other than oneself might have developed within Pure Land Buddhism, and what methods people may use to maintain their devotion to the Buddha Amitabha.
Effectiveness of Chanting
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The central practice of Pure Land Buddhism consists of chanting "Namu Amida Butsu," which can be roughly translated as "I take refuge in Buddha Amitabha." The belief that a person's future spiritual security can be obtained solely through chanting is foreign to a modern, scientific worldview. Discuss the practice and usefulness of chanting and how it might be explained within different belief systems. For example, a scientific explanation might be that chanting for many hours creates a space of clarity within the mind, allowing ego to be decreased and compassion and altruism to gain strength within an individual.
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Pure Land Buddhism in Context
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The social, religious and historical surroundings within which Pure Land Buddhism arose are rich areas for discussion. China is the home of Ch'an Buddhism and numerous animist and ancestor worshiping traditions, as well as a rich diversity of social classes and political arrangements. Discuss what effect all of these influences might have had on the spread, strength and content of Pure Land Buddhism in China. All Buddhist traditions can be traced back to the Buddha, who lived in India 25 centuries ago. Explore how all of these traditions, originating in one individual, came to be so widely divergent.
Faith Versus Thought
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Modern Westerners tend to view reality from a scientific perspective and look for rational explanations for everything from physical reality to mental states. Religious beliefs, particularly those based purely in praise and worship such as Pure Land Buddhism, are largely incompatible with this worldview. Explore the relative values of a belief system grounded in faith versus one grounded in critical thought. Ask your discussion group to explore the advantages and disadvantages of each way of being.
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References
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