1.
Pure Land; Buddhist paradise
In Buddhism, the western paradise of Amitabha Buddha where souls are reborn after death. Also called 極楽浄土.
2.
paradise; bliss; heavenly comfort
Used figuratively for an extremely pleasant or comfortable state. Often describes situations of pure relaxation or luxury.
Originally a Buddhist term for Amitabha's Pure Land, now commonly used colloquially to describe any situation of extreme comfort or pleasure.
Common collocations
- 極楽浄土: the Pure Land paradise
- 極楽気分: a blissful feeling
- 極楽往生: peaceful death and rebirth in paradise
- 極楽とんぼ: carefree person (literally "paradise dragonfly")
Cultural note
The concept of 極楽 comes from Pure Land Buddhism, which teaches that by calling on Amitabha Buddha's name, one can be reborn in the western paradise. The colloquial sense (bliss, heaven) is extremely common in everyday speech, especially when enjoying baths, food, or relaxation.