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key term - Mahayana Movement

Citation:

Definition

The Mahayana Movement is a major branch of Buddhism that emerged around the 1st century CE, emphasizing the role of bodhisattvas and the pursuit of enlightenment not only for oneself but for all sentient beings. This movement introduced new texts and philosophies that expanded the teachings of early Buddhism, making it more accessible and inclusive.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Mahayana Movement emphasizes compassion and altruism, encouraging followers to cultivate the bodhisattva ideal of helping others achieve enlightenment.
  2. Key Mahayana sutras include the Heart Sutra, which focuses on the concept of emptiness, and the Lotus Sutra, known for its teachings on universal salvation.
  3. Mahayana Buddhism is often characterized by its diverse practices and schools, including Zen, Pure Land, and Tibetan Buddhism.
  4. The movement also reinterprets earlier Buddhist concepts, like the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment, making it more inclusive for lay practitioners.
  5. Mahayana has significantly influenced East Asian cultures, particularly in China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, where unique interpretations and practices have developed.

Review Questions

  • How does the Mahayana Movement expand upon earlier Buddhist teachings?
    • The Mahayana Movement builds on earlier Buddhist teachings by introducing the concept of the bodhisattva, which emphasizes helping others achieve enlightenment. This movement reinterprets core concepts like compassion and emptiness, making them central to its philosophy. By doing so, it creates a more inclusive practice that encourages not just personal enlightenment but also collective liberation for all beings.
  • What are some key Mahayana sutras, and how do they shape the understanding of Buddhist practice within this movement?
    • Key Mahayana sutras such as the Heart Sutra and the Lotus Sutra play a vital role in shaping Buddhist practice within this movement. The Heart Sutra introduces the notion of emptiness as a central teaching, challenging practitioners to understand the nature of reality beyond dualistic thinking. The Lotus Sutra promotes the idea of universal salvation and presents various paths to enlightenment, reinforcing the importance of compassion towards all beings.
  • Evaluate the impact of the Mahayana Movement on Buddhist practice and its cultural significance in East Asia.
    • The Mahayana Movement profoundly impacted Buddhist practice by broadening its scope to include a diverse range of beliefs and rituals. Its emphasis on compassion and community led to a flourishing of new schools such as Zen and Pure Land Buddhism across East Asia. Culturally, Mahayana has shaped art, literature, and social values in countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, where its teachings continue to resonate in contemporary society.