Johdo

Johdo is a romanization variant of the Japanese term Jōdo (浄土), generally translated as "Pure Land." In Mahayana Buddhism, Jōdo refers to a celestial realm presided over by Amitabha Buddha (Amida), a place believed to offer favorable conditions for practicing the Buddhist path and attaining enlightenment. The concept of the Pure Land is central to several East Asian Buddhist traditions, and the term is closely associated with the Pure Land school movements that flourished in Japan and China.

Etymology and doctrine: Jōdo combines "jō" meaning "pure" and "do" meaning "land" or "world." Access to the Pure Land is achieved through reliance on the vow of Amitabha, who promised to aid all sentient beings who sincerely call his name. The most common practice is the recitation of the nembutsu, typically rendered as Namu Amida Butsu.

Historical development: In Japan, Jōdo-shū was founded by Hōnen in the 12th century, emphasizing the exclusive practice of nembutsu. Shinran, a disciple of Hōnen, founded Jōdo Shinshū (True Pure Land School) in the 13th century, which stresses that salvation arises through faith in Amitabha and the merciful vow rather than personal effort. Other traditions, such as Chinese and Korean Pure Land schools, interpret Amitabha's vow differently but share the same core concept of rebirth in the Pure Land.

Modern usage: The term "Johdo" may appear in English-language texts as an alternative romanization of Jōdo, though "Jōdo" or "Jodo" is more common. Today, discussions of the Pure Land continue in Buddhist studies, art, and practice across East Asia and in diaspora communities around the world.