How does Amida Buddha save us? By transfering His merits to us, those who have faith in Him. Shinran
Shonin said:
"When I humbly
contemplate the true essence of the Pure Land Way, I realize that Amida’s merit
transference has two aspects: one is the aspect of going forth, and the other
that of returning. Concerning the aspect of going forth of merit transference,
there are true teaching, practice, faith, and Enlightenment"[1].
In the practices based on personal power the practitioner
“earns” virtues which he transfers for his own Enlightenment. But in the
case of Other Power (Pure Land) way, the
transference of merits takes place from Amida Buddha to those who entrust to
Him. This transference of merit (eko) carries the follower to the Pure Land
where he attains Nirvana or perfect Enlightenment. Shinran Shonin says in a
hymn: