Amitbha

Amitbha is a significant figure in Buddhist cosmology, often translated as "Infinite Light" or "Boundless Radiance." He is the principal Buddha of the Pure Land school of Buddhism, revered for his vows to save all sentient beings. Amitbha is said to reside in the Western Pure Land, a blissful realm where rebirth is facilitated by faith in him and the recitation of his name. This Pure Land is envisioned as a paradise free from suffering, offering an ideal environment for attaining enlightenment.

The concept of Amitbha is central to the Mahayana sutras, particularly the Infinite Life Sutra, the Contemplation Sutra, and the Smaller Infinite Life Sutra. These texts describe his past life as a bodhisattva named Dharmakara, who made forty-eight vows to create a perfect world and offer salvation to all who call upon him. His compassion and wisdom are considered limitless, and his power to grant rebirth in his Pure Land is a cornerstone of faith for millions. Devotees believe that by earnestly calling upon Amitbha's name, they can transcend the cycle of rebirth and suffering in this world and be reborn in his Western Paradise. This practice, known as *nianfo* or *nembutsu*, is a primary form of devotion in Pure Land Buddhism.