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What is Pure Land Buddhism? A look at how East Asian Buddhists chant and strive for buddhahood
What is Pure Land Buddhism? A look at how East Asian Buddhists chant and strive for buddhahood Monks pray at Nanshan Temple in Sanya, Hainan Province of China. Chen Wenwu/VCG via Getty Images Charles B. Jones, Association of Theological Schools Many people in the West interpret Buddhism as a path of meditation leading to enlightenment. What many may not know is that this interpretation differs vastly from its practice in East Asia. I have spent many years observing Buddhist temples in Taiwan and mainland China, and my research culminated in the book “Chinese Pure Land Buddhism.” This form of Buddhism teaches people to call upon a buddha named Amitābha in…
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Henley Passport Index issued its Q1 2021 ranking: How powerful is your passport?
The Henley Passport Index, which regularly measures the world’s most travel-friendly passports, has just released its latest report – along with predictions for the future. Japan maintains its leadership in 2021 as the most powerful passport in the world, while the Asian giant has ranked first since 2018, according to the Henley Passport Index, which published the ranking on Tuesday. The Indian passport is the 85th most powerful passport in the world, based on the 2021 Henley Passport Index. The country finished the same ranking as Tajikistan in the annual list made by London-based research firm Henley & Partners. The world’s most powerful passports for 20211. Japan 2. Singapore 3.…
