Untitled Flashcards Set

Lotus Sutra

One of the most influential Mahayana sutras presenting the Buddha as an eternal being and emphasizing Buddhahood potential in all beings.

Sutra

Generally refers to a discourse or sermon by the Buddha or his close disciples, containing the teachings of Buddhism.

Pali Canon (Tipitaka)

The standard collection of scriptures in the Theravada Buddhist tradition, preserved in Pali, considered the most accurate record of the Buddha's teachings.

Vinaya

The collection of texts containing the rules of monastic discipline for monks and nuns.

Abhidharma

Scholastic and philosophical analyses and systematizations of the Buddha's teachings.

Four Noble Truths

The foundation of Buddhist teachings: 1) suffering exists, 2) suffering arises from attachment to desires, 3) suffering ceases when attachment ceases, and 4) freedom is possible by practicing the Eightfold Path.

Eightfold Path

The path to liberation from suffering, consisting of right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.

Kora

In Tibetan Buddhism, it refers to a circumambulation or pilgrimage around a sacred site, often involving walking, chanting, and prostrating.

Bodhidharma

An Indian Buddhist monk traditionally credited with bringing Zen Buddhism to China, considered the first patriarch of Zen.

Mahayana

A major branch of Buddhism emphasizing the role of the bodhisattva, who seeks enlightenment for all sentient beings.

Greater Prajna Paramita Sutras

Foundational texts in Mahayana Buddhism focusing on 'prajna' or wisdom, exploring the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment.

Pure Lands

Belief in transcendent realms free of suffering, where beings can be reborn due to their karmic merit.

Bodhisattva

A person who has generated bodhicitta, intending to attain Buddhahood for the sake of all sentient beings.

Diamond Sutra

A famous Mahayana text focusing on the concept of emptiness (śūnyatā) and non-attachment.

Avalokiteshvara

A bodhisattva associated with compassion, embodying the compassion of all Buddhas.

Vajrayana

Also known as Tantric Buddhism, incorporates esoteric teachings and practices aiming for faster enlightenment.

Tantric Sutras

Texts outlining practices and philosophies of Vajrayana Buddhism, focusing on transforming ordinary experiences into spiritual insights.