JAPON, PERIODE EDO, XVIIIEME SIECLE

This iconographic form of Amida is known as welcoming the faithful in his Heaven. The mudra of jôbon-geshô (thumb on forefinger) is used to welcome laymen. Although their weaknesses have been considerable, those who have been taught the Buddhist doctrine and utter Amida's name at the moment of their physical death will enter his Pure Earth Paradise. The boat-shaped halo behind him reminds his followers that he is a guide for them to cross the "ocean of pain".