Which form of Buddhism was particularly popular among the masses in East Asia and focused on salvation, commonly associated with Pure Land practices?

• A. Theravada
• B. Zen Buddhism
• C. Mahayana (Pure Land)
• D. Vajrayana

Answer: (C)

The form being tested is about salvation-focused practice that spread broadly among laypeople in East Asia. Pure Land Buddhism centers on devotion to Amitabha Buddha and the promise that sincere faith and recitation of his name will secure rebirth in a Pure Land where it’s easier to attain enlightenment. This emphasis on grace and a straightforward path appeals to many across social classes, making it especially popular among the masses rather than just the monkhood. In contrast, Theravada emphasizes individual effort and monastic life; Zen centers on meditative insight and practice rather than devotional salvation; and Vajrayana relies on esoteric, tantric rituals more closely associated with Tibetan settings. Thus, the Pure Land strand of Mahayana best fits the description of a salvation-focused form widely practiced by ordinary people in East Asia.