Which of the following statements is correct about the Mahayana sect ...
- The term Mahayana is a Sanskrit word which literally means "Great Vehicle". It is one of the two main schools of Buddhism. This school is more liberal and believed in the heavenliness of Buddha and Bodhisattvas embodying Buddha Nature.
- The ultimate goal under Mahayana is "spiritual upliftment". They believed in universal liberation from suffering for all beings (hence the ―Great Vehicle).
- The Mahayana followers believed in idol or image worship of Buddha. Hence option (a) is not correct.
- Emperor Ashoka patronised Hinayana sect as Mahayana school came into being much later.
- The concept of Bodhisattva is the result of Mahayana Buddhism. Chief of Bodhisattvas is Avalokitesvara also called Padampani.
- Mahayana is also called "Bodhisattvayana", or the "Bodhisattva Vehicle. That is to say, the followers believe in Bodhisattva concept of salvation of all conscious individual. In other words, they believe in universal liberation from suffering of all beings. A bodhisattva seeks complete enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. Hence option (b) is not correct.
- A bodhisattva who has accomplished this goal is called a Samyaksaip buddha.
- Prominent Mahayana texts include Lotus Sutra, Mahavamsa, etc.
- Mahayana school believes in ten great spiritual perfections (or paramitas) to be followed by an individual. Hence option (d) is the correct answer.
- The Mahayana scholars predominantly used Sanskrit as a language.
The concept of Vibhajjavada i.e. ―teaching of analysis is related to Theravada Buddhism (a sub sect of Hinayana). Hence option (c) is not correct.
Which of the following statements is correct about the Mahayana sect ...
The correct answer is option 'D': They believed in 'ten paramitas or ten great spiritual perfections' to be followed by an individual.
Explanation:
The Mahayana sect of Buddhism is one of the major branches of Buddhism. It emerged around the 1st century CE and spread to various parts of Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Mahayana Buddhism is known for its emphasis on compassion and the belief in the bodhisattva ideal, which is the aspiration to attain enlightenment not only for oneself but also for the benefit of all sentient beings.
The ten paramitas, or ten great spiritual perfections, are an important concept in Mahayana Buddhism. These perfections are qualities or virtues that a practitioner should cultivate in order to progress on the path to enlightenment. They are seen as the means to attain Buddhahood and to help others attain liberation as well.
Here are the ten paramitas and their meanings:
1. Dana (Generosity): The practice of giving selflessly without attachment or expectation of reward.
2. Sila (Ethical conduct): The observance of moral precepts, such as refraining from harming others and engaging in wholesome actions.
3. Kshanti (Patience): The ability to endure hardships, difficulties, and the faults of others without anger or resentment.
4. Virya (Diligence): The energetic effort and enthusiasm in practicing the Buddhist path and overcoming obstacles.
5. Dhyana (Meditation): The cultivation of focused concentration and mindfulness to attain mental clarity and insight.
6. Prajna (Wisdom): The development of insight and understanding of the true nature of reality, particularly the concept of emptiness.
7. Upaya (Skillful means): The ability to adapt one's teachings and methods to suit the needs and capacities of different individuals.
8. Pranidhana (Aspiration): The sincere and heartfelt dedication to the welfare and liberation of all beings.
9. Bala (Strength): The strength of mind and character that arises from the cultivation of the previous perfections.
10. Jnana (Knowledge): The direct realization of the ultimate truth and the attainment of enlightenment.
These ten paramitas are not seen as a strict checklist to be completed, but rather as qualities to be developed and embodied in one's thoughts, words, and actions. By cultivating these perfections, practitioners aim to purify their minds, overcome selfishness, and ultimately attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
In summary, the Mahayana sect of Buddhism believes in the ten paramitas or ten great spiritual perfections as a means to attain enlightenment and help others. These perfections encompass qualities such as generosity, ethical conduct, patience, diligence, meditation, wisdom, skillful means, aspiration, strength, and knowledge.
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