Pure Land Buddhism is Not Zen

From the Chinese Pure Land Buddhist Association, here.

Adherents aspire to enlightenment in Amitabha’s Western Land of Bliss. They rely on other-power (Amitabha’s power) to gain rebirth in the Pure Land. It is easy for ordinary beings to practice.

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Karma (action) of assurance – Single-minded recitation of Amitabha Buddha’s name

Supporting karma – Recitation of scripture, contemplation, reverential actions and praise & offerings, all directed towards Amitabha and his Pure Land

With Zen in contrast:

No merit. See: Bodhidharma Meeting the Emperor

No doctrine. See: Huangbo's Transmission of Mind

No supernatural practices. See: Zhaozhou

Directly seeing Buddha. See: 4 Statements

Of course e-Buddhists overwhelmingly don't have a statement of faith they can link their beliefs to. They are easily spotted in /r/zen when they make claims about Zen but can't quote Zen Masters when pressed.

Submitted March 15, 2023 at 10:30PM by ThatKir https://ift.tt/qvX20uf