t, in the Mahṅyṅna concept of the Pure Land. Here it appears to mean the sphere of the current Buddhaâs influence. In the Apadṅnas it takes on two other meanings: as (1) a field for producing merit, on the lines of the traditional image of the Saṃgha as the unexcelled field of merit; and (2) a heavenly realm where a particular Buddha dwells. These two meanings were influential in the early Mahṅyṅna sūtras that formed the basis for Pure Land practice. 7. The three planes of becoming are the sensual, form, and formlessness. See AN 3:77–78. 8. See Thag 15:2. See also: SN 1:10; AN 3:35; AN 4:28; AN 5:77–78; AN 5:98; AN 5:114; AN 6:42; AN 11:10; Ud 2:10; Ud 4:4; Sn 4:14 - --> - - - -