Who Loves Dies Well: an the brink of Buddha's Pure Land

This is an introduction to Pureland Buddhism, also called Amida Buddhism. Under-represented in literature, Pureland Buddhism is closely concerned with the relationship between life and death. It is both about going to heaven and about heaven on earth; a thoroughly spiritual form of Buddhism, but also a very practical one because it is a faith that recognizes people's limitations. It is not full of guilt, nor injunctions to be perfect. It is for ordinary people, the sort who make mistakes and weep when sad things happen.

"Not for nothing is the teaching of the Buddha called "The Great Matter of Life and Death", for it is through understanding death, and the role that love plays in it, that we are able to master life. The Pure Land tradition of Buddhism shows us a way of surrendering the self to the limitless power of the Buddha's Compassion, thus solving this "Great Matter" for ourselves (though not by ourselves). Though this sounds simple, it is by no means easy, and we need a guide. This book is such a guide, presented simply and clearly through the story of the relationship between the author, his mother and the Buddha-dharma. It is practical, moving and full of deep love for the reader, and as such is the perfect guide to newcomers and experienced Buddhists alike."
—Jim Pym, author of "You Don't Have to Sit on the Floor" and of "Listening to the Light"