Pure Land Buddhism: Buddhism for the Have-Nots?

Pure Land Buddhism is one of the most prominent forms of Mahayana Buddhism, especially in East Asia. Approximately 60–70% of Chinese Buddhists identify with Pure Land practices, while around 20–30% align with Zen. This school has undeniably shaped the spiritual landscape of the region, but its dominance evokes both admiration and critique.

While Pure Land Buddhism has offered profound solace to countless individuals, I have always had mixed feelings about its foundational principles. Historically, its evolution can be traced to when much of the East Asian population was illiterate and unable to engage directly with the classical Buddhist texts. Pure Land Buddhism emerged to meet this need, offering an accessible spiritual framework centered on faith and devotion. In this sense, it fulfills a genuine societal function. However, it also diverges significantly from the original spirit of Buddhism as taught by the historical Buddha. Below, I examine the core principles, practices, and implications of Pure Land Buddhism and their departures from early Buddhist teachings.

1. Contradicting the Original Spirit of Buddhism

The Buddha’s teachings, encapsulated in the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, emphasize personal effort, self-discipline, and insight as the path to…