Tibetan Tantric buddhism Dharma

Amitābha / Amitāyus: Buddha of Infinite Light and Life

Amitabha Buddha jpg

Amitābha is the primordial Buddha of Infinite Light. He manifests in the Samboghakaya as Amitāyus, Buddha of Infinite Life.

He resides in the Western Land of Sukhavati, holds the wisdom of Discriminating Awareness Wisdom, symbolized as a Lotus Flower, and bestows the siddhi of magnetizing energy.

Most Lineages have a form of Amitāyus practice as it can help with longevity. Some basic facts about him:

Amitabha (center)
  • Name: Amitabha
  • Alternate Name: Amitāyus
  • Title: Buddha of Immeasurable Light and Life
  • Realm: Sukhavati (Pure Land)
  • Implement: Lotus flower held in lap
Related Entities
  • Avalokiteshvara
  • Name: Avalokiteshvara
  • Title: Bodhisattva of Compassion
  • Mahasthamaprapta (right)
  • Name: Mahasthamaprapta
  • Title: Bodhisattva of Great Strength
Other Entities
  • Sukhavati (Pure Land)
    • Description: A celestial paradise where Amitabha resides
  • Lotus Flower
    • Symbolism: Purity and rebirth
  • Mandala
    • Purpose: A diagrammatic representation of Amitabha and his realm
  • Dhyana Mudra
    • Gesture: Meditation and concentration
  • Amitabha Mantra
    • Text: “Om ami dewa hrih”
  • Pure Land Buddhism
    • Belief: Amitabha’s Pure Land is a refuge for beings who strive for enlightenment

Amitabha Buddha: Illuminating the Path to Liberation

Amitabha Buddha Mantra

The Mantra, also known as the “Namo Amitabha” mantra, holds profound significance in Pure Land Buddhism. Devotees chant this mantra as an expression of reverence and a means to connect with this Buddha. The mantra acts as a spiritual beacon, guiding practitioners towards the serene realm of the Pure Land.

Amitabha Meaning

His name translates to “Infinite Light” or “Boundless Splendor.” Understanding the meaning of Amitāyus is delving into the radiant illumination of enlightenment. In Pure Land Buddhism, followers aspire to be reborn in the Pure Land of Sukhavati transcending the cycle of birth and death.

It is easier to attain enlightenment in the Pure Land because the entire realm is focused on the attainment of enlightenment for the inhabitants.

Amitabha Buddha vs Gautama Buddha

While Gautama Buddha, the historical Buddha, attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, Amitāyus Buddha presides over the Pure Land. Their roles differ, with Amitāyus emphasizing salvation through faith and devotion.

Amitabha is a cosmic Buddha – one of the 5 primordial Buddhas. The historical Gautama Buddha is a Nirmanakaya, basically a flesh and blood human being. He was born into this realm and attained enlightenment after many lifetimes.

Amitabha Buddha Statue

Amitāyus Buddha statues serve as tangible representations of the enlightened one. Crafted with meticulous detail, these statues often depict him in a meditative posture, radiating compassion. Devotees find solace and inspiration in the presence of these statues, deepening their connection with the Infinite Light.

Amitabha Buddha Pure Land / Sukhavati

The concept of the Pure Land, or Sukhavati, associated with Amitāyus Buddha, is a celestial realm of bliss and tranquility. Devotees aspire to be reborn in this Pure Land, where the path to enlightenment is harmonious and obstacles are minimized. The Pure Land teachings offer solace and hope to those seeking liberation.

There are practices devoted to Pure Land / Sukhavati liberation. They can help guide beings in the time after death to continue their path in the realm of Amitāyus. They are done by others in the presence of the person’s body.

In the embrace of Amitāyus Buddha’s teachings, followers find a path illuminated by boundless light and guided by compassion. The journey involves chanting the mantra, contemplating the profound meaning of Amitāyus, and understanding the distinct roles of Amitāyus and Gautama Buddha. His statues are conduits of divine energy, and the aspiration for rebirth in the Pure Land offers a transformative perspective on the cyclical nature of existence.

Dedication of Merit

May all beings be happy

May all beings be peaceful

May all beings be safe

May all beings awaken to the light of their true nature

May all beings be free