The phrase means, “Homage to Amitabha Buddha,” but you don’t don’t even have to know that; you don’t even have to know who the Amitabha Buddha is, because it’s all automatic. It’s the password to paradise. No doubt this insidious notion led to all sorts of horrible people doing all sorts of horrible things over the centuries, because, just like the “I accept Jesus as…” thing, it’s your Get Out of Jail Free card. Just mumble it on your deathbed and you’re good to go (to paradise). (2/2)