The Three Buddhas: A Detailed Exploration

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Introduction to the Three Buddhas

The Three Buddhas represent the masters of three different realms. They include Medicine Buddha of the Eastern Pure Lapis Lazuli World, Shakyamuni Buddha of the Saha World, and Amitabha Buddha of the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Together, they are referred to as the "Horizontal Three Buddhas."

Shakyamuni Buddha and the Saha World

Shakyamuni Buddha presides over the Saha World. The term "Saha" is a transliteration from Sanskrit, meaning "endurance." This world represents our real world and has two key connotations. First, it reflects the overwhelming suffering that burdens sentient beings due to their sins. Second, it emphasizes the relentless efforts of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, who endure hardships to teach and guide others. These efforts display their fearlessness and compassion.

Medicine Buddha and His Eastern Pure Land

Medicine Buddha governs the Eastern Pure Lapis Lazuli World. According to the *Medicine Buddha Sutra*, this land lies eastward, beyond countless Buddha lands. The Buddha here is referred to as Medicine Master Lapis Lazuli Light Tathagata. His twelve great vows aim to cure physical and mental suffering and ensure peace and happiness for sentient beings.

Key vows include providing relief from illnesses, transforming women into men, and rescuing beings from disasters and poverty. Despite being known as the Healing King, his vows primarily emphasize eliminating suffering rather than prescribing medicines.

Influence of Medicine Buddha

Among the Buddhas, Medicine Buddha holds a unique place for his focus on addressing suffering's root causes. His methods are described in the *Medicine Buddha Sutra*. These include rituals involving fasting, prayer, lamp-lighting, and sutra chanting to seek healing. Historical records, such as Zhang Yuan’s case of curing his ancestor’s blindness, highlight his widespread reverence.

Medicine Buddha is frequently depicted in halls dedicated to him, often accompanied by Sunlight and Moonlight Bodhisattvas. The Twelve Divine Generals, depicted as armored warriors, also play a significant role in protecting sentient beings under Medicine Buddha's guidance.

Amitabha Buddha and the Western Pure Land

Amitabha Buddha presides over the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. His influence is vast, and he is frequently accompanied by Avalokiteshvara and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattvas, collectively known as the "Three Saints of the West." His teachings focus on guiding sentient beings toward liberation.

Differentiating the Three Buddhas

The visual representations of Medicine Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha, and Amitabha Buddha often appear similar. However, they can be distinguished by their positions and mudras in temples.

Shakyamuni occupies the central position in Mahavira Halls, flanked by Manjushri and Samantabhadra.

Medicine Buddha, seated to the left, holds a bowl symbolizing ambrosia and gestures with a medicine pill.

Amitabha Buddha, seated to the right, forms a lotus mudra with his hands, symbolizing his role in guiding sentient beings.

These placements and gestures reflect their respective roles and the realms they oversee.

Conclusion

The Three Buddhas, with their unique realms and vows, embody different aspects of Buddhist teachings. Shakyamuni emphasizes endurance and guidance, Medicine Buddha addresses suffering and healing, and Amitabha offers a path to liberation in the Pure Land. Together, they inspire devotion and provide spiritual refuge to countless followers.