Mamsakaya, Māṃsakāya, Mamsa-kaya: 1 definition

Introduction:

Mamsakaya means something in Buddhism, Pali. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Buddhism

Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism)

[«previous next»] — Mamsakaya in Mahayana glossary
Source: Wisdom Library: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

Māṃsakāya (मांसकाय) refers to “fleshly beings”, according to  the 2nd century Mahāprajñāpāramitāśāstra chapter 1.—Accordingly: [...] If the Bodhisattva were able to walk and talk as soon as he was born, people would say: “This man that we see is extraordinary, he must be a god, a nāga or a demon. The doctrine which he professes is certainly not within our reach. Transmigrating and fleshly beings (māṃsakāya) as we are, in the grasp of the activities of the fetters, we do not have the capacity for it; who among us could attain such a profound Dharma?”

Mahayana book cover
context information

Mahayana (महायान, mahāyāna) is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sūtras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajñāpāramitā sūtras.

Discover the meaning of mamsakaya in the context of Mahayana from relevant books on Exotic India

See also (Relevant definitions)

Relevant text

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: