Core Sutras and Key Texts
In the Buddhist tradition, sutras are canonical scriptures, often considered records of the Buddha's teachings. They are detailed expositions, not aphoristic, and are regarded as foundational texts. In Pure Land Buddhism, the central scriptures are the three Pure Land Sutras described below, which are often supported by some additional scripture references and text by key ancestors.
The Longer Pure Land Sutra (The Infinite Life Sutra)
The “Longer Pure Land Sutra” also knowm as the "Infinite Life Sutra," is a fundamental text in the Pure Land School of Mahayana Buddhism.
The Shorter Pure Land Sutra (The Amida Sutra)
The "Amida Sutra," also known as the "Amitabha Sutra," is a significant text in Pure Land Buddhism and is oftem chanted in full given its shortness.
The Contemplation Sutra (The Amitayurdhyana Sutra)
This Sutra details the process of attaining rebirth in the Pure Land through the power of Amida Buddha's vows and emphasises the practice of visualisations and recitation of the Name.
Tanluan’s Commentary on the Treatise on Rebirth in the Pure Land by Vasubhandhu
The "Commentary on the Treatise on Rebirth in the Pure Land" by Tanluan is an important text in Pure Land Buddhism, providing an in-depth analysis of Vasubandhu's "Treatise on Rebirth in the Pure Land."
The Practices and Vow of Samantabhadra from the Avatamsaka (Flower Adornment) Sutra
“The Practices and Vow of the Bodhisattva Samantabhadra" is the final chapter of the Avatamsaka Sutra, also known as the Flower Adornment Sutra.
Mahasthamaprabtha’s Perfect Realisation on Nianfo/Nembutsu Samadhi. Chapter 5 of the Surangama Sutra
The "Chapter of Bodhisattva Dashizhi’s Perfect Realisation on Nianfo Samādhi" is an extract from Chapter Five of the Surangama Sutra.
The Chapter on Expedient Means from the Lotus Sutra
The "Chapter of Expedient Means" is the second chapter of the Lotus Sutra and is pivotal in conveying the Buddha's use of skillful means, or "expedient means," to guide beings toward enlightenment.
Senchakushu by Honen Shonin
"Senchakushū," written by Honen Shonin, is a seminal text in Pure Land Buddhism that systematically outlines the principles and practices of the Pure Land path.
Kyogyoshinsho by Shinran Shonin
The "Kyogyoshinsho," written by Shinran Shonin, is a foundational text for the Jodo Shinshu (True Pure Land) school of Buddhism.