Study Guides

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will examine key beliefs in Buddhism. They will examine key concepts such as dhamma and the idea of the human condition. They will gain an understanding of Buddhist ideas about suffering and the way to end it. They will also examine the story of Gautama Buddha.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain the history and nature of the Pure Land and how it influences Buddhists today.

Key Notes

• Pure Land Buddhism follows the teaching of Amitabha (Amida) Buddha.
• Amitabha (Amida) Buddha features in Mahayana texts.
• He was a king who achieved enlightenment and created a kingdom free from suffering (a pure land).
• A goal of Pure Land Buddhists is to be reborn here.
• Alongside other Buddhist teachings, Pure Land Buddhists follow Amitabha (Amida) as a role model.

Vocabulary To Learn

• Amitabha (Amida): the Buddha worshipped by Pure Land Buddhists
• Pure Land: a form of Mahayana Buddhism, based on a belief in Amitabha Buddha
• Sukhavati: a place of paradise where Pure Land Buddhists wish to be reborn and the place where Amitabha Buddha resides
• Buddhahood: reaching enlightenment

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• The Pure Land is nibbana (nirvana).

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Gautama Buddha's life and its significance Study Guide
• Human destiny: the Arhat and Boddhisatva ideals Study Guide
• Human personality in Mahayana tradition Study Guide
• Human personality in Theravada tradition Study Guide
• Meditation and wisdom Study Guide
• Nibbana and the end of suffering Study Guide
• Suffering and its causes Study Guide
• The concept of dependent arising Study Guide
• The concept of Dhamma Study Guide
• The Eightfold Path Study Guide
• The Four Noble Truths Study Guide
• The three marks of existence Study Guide
• The three poisons Study Guide
• The Threefold Way Study Guide