Mahayana sutras

Definition

Mahayana sutras are a collection of Buddhist texts that form the foundation of Mahayana Buddhism, one of the two major branches of Buddhism. These scriptures, believed to be spoken by the Buddha or recorded by his followers, emphasize the concepts of compassion, wisdom, and the bodhisattva ideal, advocating for the liberation of all beings. They serve as religious texts that guide adherents in their spiritual practice and philosophical understanding.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mahayana sutras include important texts such as the Lotus Sutra, Heart Sutra, and Diamond Sutra, each offering unique teachings and insights.
2. These sutras are characterized by their expansive views on enlightenment, stressing that it is attainable by all beings, not just monks or ascetics.
3. The Mahayana tradition emphasizes compassion as a key virtue, encouraging practitioners to help others achieve enlightenment alongside their own.
4. The notion of the bodhisattva is central in these texts, illustrating the importance of selfless service and altruism in the path to enlightenment.
5. Mahayana sutras have been translated into various languages and have significantly influenced Buddhist practices and philosophies across Asia.

Review Questions

• How do the Mahayana sutras differ from earlier Buddhist texts in their approach to enlightenment?
  • Mahayana sutras differ from earlier Buddhist texts by expanding the notion of who can attain enlightenment. While earlier texts primarily focus on individual monks or ascetics achieving nirvana through rigorous practice, Mahayana sutras advocate that all beings have the potential for enlightenment. This inclusivity shifts the focus toward a collective journey where individuals not only seek their own liberation but also work towards liberating others.
• Discuss the significance of the bodhisattva ideal as presented in Mahayana sutras and its impact on Buddhist practice.
  • The bodhisattva ideal is significant in Mahayana sutras as it encapsulates the essence of compassion and altruism in Buddhist practice. It emphasizes that achieving enlightenment is not solely an individual pursuit; instead, one should aspire to assist others on their spiritual paths. This perspective has led to practices centered around community support, compassion-driven actions, and the idea that spiritual progress involves helping those around us.
• Evaluate how Mahayana sutras have influenced contemporary Buddhist thought and practice in various cultures.
  • Mahayana sutras have had a profound influence on contemporary Buddhist thought and practice across diverse cultures. Their emphasis on compassion and the bodhisattva path has shaped social engagement initiatives within Buddhist communities, promoting activism and humanitarian efforts. In addition, these texts have facilitated a more inclusive understanding of spirituality that resonates with modern values of equality and interconnectedness. As a result, Mahayana principles continue to inspire practitioners worldwide to adopt a more communal and compassionate approach to Buddhism.

Related terms

Bodhisattva: An enlightened being who delays entering nirvana in order to help others achieve enlightenment.

Sutras:

Sacred texts in Buddhism that contain teachings and discourses attributed to the Buddha.

Tathagatagarbha: The concept of 'Buddha-nature' inherent in all beings, suggesting that everyone has the potential to attain enlightenment.