This is the most popular type of Buddha in Japan. Amithaba is one of the three holy beings from the Western paradise, together with Bodhisattva Mahasthamaprapta and Quan Yin (Avalokitesvara).
Padmasambhava, an Indian monk from the eight century, brought the practice of Amitabha to Tibet and Nepal. There, Amithaba is one of the five Dhyani Buddhas. He symbolises concentration, satisfaction and the wisdom of discernment. The colour of visualisation is red, and he is related to the throat chakra. Amithaba’s mantra is: Om Ah Amithaba Hum.
Nowadays, many people have a place for meditation in their homes, with their favourite Buddha statue, some flowers, candles, incense and pictures of dear ones. A place to calm down, get centred and meditate.
