

Demystifying Pure Lands: A Conversation with Mark Unno
Apr 11, 2024
Join Mark Unno, a leading scholar of Buddhist studies and a 14th-generation minister of Shin Buddhism, as he explores the fascinating world of Pure Lands. He delves into the core principles of self-power and other-power, illuminating the significance of nembutsu and the transformative practice of bowing. Unno candidly shares personal experiences, discussing the balance between the literal and symbolic interpretations of Pure Lands. He also touches on topics like the power of light, spiritual photosynthesis, and the relationship between psychology and spirituality in achieving enlightenment.
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Pure Land's Core Framework
- Pure Land is the largest movement in East Asian Mahayana Buddhism and centers on Amida Buddha and nembutsu practice.
- Its core notions are blind passions (bonnō) and boundless compassion (daiji), countering attachment with entrusting.
Attachment As Fixed Ideas
- Attachment means rigid ideas about self and others rather than mere desire.
- Letting go must arise spontaneously from body and heart, not by force of will.
Tariki vs Jiriki Dynamic
- Other-power (tariki) is the awakened flow of boundless compassion that we receive when self-effort reaches its limit.
- Self-power (jiriki) remains necessary, but true awakening needs the opening that other-power provides.