Maitreya faith is one of the earliest traditions of Bodhisattva in Buddhism, spanning across both the southern and northern transmission of Buddhism. Although different schools of Buddhism have different understandings of the concept of Bodhisattva, they all believe that Maitreya Bodhisattva who currently resides in the Tusita Heaven and preaches to gods, will descend to the human realm to attain Buddhahood and enlighten sentient beings. As a result, aspiring to be born in the Tusita Heaven, listening to Maitreya's teachings, accompanying him to the human realm, and hearing his further teachings have become common beliefs and practices among Buddhists. In modern times, Master Taixu who advocated Humanistic Buddhism, promoted Maitreya faith while aspiring to ascend to the Tusita Heaven. This article examines the characteristics of Maitreya faith and explores its inherent connection with the idea of a Pure Land on Earth, so that our understanding of Humanistic Buddhism could be deepened and expanded.
