A Di Đà Tam Tôn
Definition
Proper Noun: - The Amitabha Triad: A specific grouping of three sacred statues arranged horizontally on the main altar in many Mahayana Buddhist temples. The central figure is Amitabha Buddha (A Di Đà Phật), flanked on his left by the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Quán Thế Âm Bồ Tát) and on his right by the Bodhisattva Mahasthamaprapta (Đại Thế Chí Bồ Tát). This triad represents the core devotional figures of the Pure Land Buddhist tradition.
Usage Examples
- Proper Noun:
- Trên bàn thờ chính của ngôi chùa này thờ A Di Đà Tam Tôn. (The main altar of this temple venerates the Amitabha Triad.)
- A Di Đà Tam Tôn tượng trưng cho Từ bi, Trí tuệ và Đại hạnh. (The Amitabha Triad symbolizes Compassion, Wisdom, and Great Power.)
Advanced Usage
- The Amitabha Triad is not merely decorative but serves as a focal point for meditation and devotion, reminding practitioners of the qualities needed for rebirth in the Western Pure Land (Sukhavati).
- In iconography, each figure has distinct attributes: Amitabha is often in meditation, Avalokiteshvara may hold a willow branch or vase, and Mahasthamaprapta may hold a lotus bud or pagoda.
Variants and Related Words
- Tây Phương Tam Thánh (Proper Noun): The Three Saints of the West, an alternative name for the same grouping.
- Tây Phương Tam Thánh là cách gọi khác của A Di Đà Tam Tôn. (The Three Saints of the West is another name for the Amitabha Triad.)
Synonyms
- The Amitabha Trinity: A less common but sometimes used English equivalent.
- The Pure Land Triad: A descriptive term highlighting the association with Pure Land Buddhism.
Related Concepts
- Pure Land Buddhism: The Buddhist tradition focused on faith in Amitabha Buddha and rebirth in his Pure Land.
- Buddhist Altar Arrangement: The Amitabha Triad represents a classic and central configuration in East Asian Mahayana temple altars.