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What promises did Dharmakara make in his vows to become Amitabha?
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Mahayana
Guanyin and attendant bodhisattvas, detail of a painted cave mural, Kansu province, China, early 8th century.
In the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, the bodhisattva Dharmakara made a series of vows that, upon their fulfillment, allowed him to attain buddhahood as Amitabha.123
His promises focused on the creation of a salvific realm and the accessibility of liberation for ordinary beings:
- Creation of a Pure Land: Dharmakara vowed to establish Sukhavati, a world-realm of "Pure Bliss," where beings could reside in peace.13
- Guarantee of Rebirth: He promised that ordinary beings could be reborn in this paradise rather than continuing to cycle through samsara (the cycle of transmigration).3
- Faith and Invocation: According to his 18th vow, this rebirth is ensured for those who have faith in him and call upon his name.13
- Transfer of Merit: Amitabha assured entry into his realm by transferring to his devotees the infinite merit he accumulated during eons of practice as a bodhisattva, thereby assisting them in attaining enlightenment.3