The famous Buddhist Diamond Sutra is a/an;a)Old Japanese textb)Transla...
- Buddhist missionaries from China introduced hand printing techniques into Japan around AD 768-770.
- The oldest Japanese book, printed in AD 868, is the Buddhist Diamond Sutra, containing six sheets of text and woodcut illustrations.
- Diamond sutra is one of the most influential Mahayana sutras in east asia and is a key object of devotion and study in Zen Buddhism
The famous Buddhist Diamond Sutra is a/an;a)Old Japanese textb)Transla...
The correct answer is option 'A': The famous Buddhist Diamond Sutra is an old Japanese text.
Explanation:
The Diamond Sutra, also known as the Vajracchedikā Prajñāpāramitā Sūtra, is a prominent Buddhist text that originated in India and is considered one of the most important sutras in Mahayana Buddhism. However, it is not a translation of the Abhidhammapitaka compiled in India, a recent work of the Gompa Monastery, or the Chinese version of the Sutta Pitakas.
History and Origin of the Diamond Sutra
1. Origin in India:
- The Diamond Sutra was first composed in India, likely during the 1st century CE. It is attributed to the Mahasanghika school of Buddhism.
- This school is known for its emphasis on the doctrine of emptiness (śūnyatā) and the concept of non-duality.
2. Translation to Chinese:
- The Diamond Sutra was later translated into Chinese by the Buddhist monk Kumārajīva in the 5th century CE.
- This translation played a significant role in spreading Mahayana Buddhism to East Asia.
3. Introduction to Japan:
- From China, Buddhism reached Japan, and the Diamond Sutra was introduced there.
- It became highly regarded and influential in Japanese Buddhism, particularly during the Heian period (794-1185 CE).
Significance and Content of the Diamond Sutra
1. Emphasis on Emptiness:
- The Diamond Sutra focuses on the concept of emptiness and the ultimate reality of all phenomena.
- It challenges the idea of inherent existence and encourages practitioners to see through the illusion of separate entities.
2. Prajñāpāramitā Literature:
- The Diamond Sutra is part of the Prajñāpāramitā literature, which encompasses texts that emphasize the perfection of wisdom.
- These texts aim to guide individuals towards transcending dualistic thinking and attaining enlightenment.
3. Teachings on Non-Attachment:
- The sutra teaches the importance of non-attachment and the impermanence of all things.
- It encourages practitioners to let go of attachments and cultivate a mind free from clinging.
In conclusion, the Diamond Sutra is an ancient Buddhist text that originated in India, was later translated into Chinese, and eventually made its way to Japan. It is a significant scripture in Japanese Buddhism, particularly known for its teachings on emptiness and non-attachment.