Significance of Buddha's disciples
Buddha's disciple refers to individuals who embody the teachings of the Buddha and strive for enlightenment. This includes a broad spectrum of followers, such as monks and laypeople, who engage in practices of meditation and moral virtues like loving-kindness and compassion. Disciples are determined by their adherence to Buddhist doctrines and traditions, pursuing spiritual guidance and understanding of the Dharma. They are recognized for their commitment to the path of enlightenment, demonstrating devotion and respect for the teachings of the Buddha.
Synonyms: Disciple of buddha, Buddhist monk, Buddhist disciple, Buddhist practitioner
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Buddha's disciples'
Buddha's disciples in Buddhism are individuals, often monks or laypeople, who follow, practice, and embody the Buddha's teachings, striving for enlightenment through understanding the Dharma, showing respect, and fostering virtues like compassion and loving-kindness.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The followers of the Buddha who sought enlightenment through his teachings, beginning from his first sermon.[1] (2) Followers of the Buddha, often monks or laypeople who study and practice the teachings of Buddhism.[2] (3) Individuals who follow the teachings of the Buddha and are referred to as monks based on their relinquishment of desire and worldly concerns.[3] (4) The followers of the Buddha who are encouraged to see and comprehend the truths of existence.[4] (5) Followers of the Buddha who are referred to as 'Brahmans', based on their spiritual accomplishments rather than their birth.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Refers to the various followers of the Buddha, comprising bhikkhus, bhikkhunis, lay male-disciples, and lay female-disciples.[6] (2) The followers of the Buddha who have committed to the teachings and practices laid down by him.[7] (3) The monks and followers of the Buddha, who possess various impressive attributes as described by Culasubhadda.[8] (4) The followers of the Buddha, including bhikkhus and bhikkhunis, their training and understanding are paramount for the Buddha's own decisions regarding his life span.[9] (5) The followers of Buddha who were inspired to demonstrate their understanding and power, seeking permission to show their own miracles.[10]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Refers to the followers of the Buddha in the narrative, symbolizing the community of those seeking enlightenment.[11] (2) Refers to the female aspects of devotion represented by Mallika, showing her adherence to the teachings of the Buddha.[12]
From: The Catu-Bhanavara-Pali (critical study)
(1) Followers of the Buddha who are advised to learn and remember the Atanatiya sutta for their spiritual protection.[13] (2) Followers of the Buddha who continue his teachings and practices, including the ritual invitation to Deities.[14]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Individuals who follow the teachings of the Buddha and are admitted into the Order as bhikkhus and bhikkhunis.[15]
From: Cetasikas
(1) Followers of the Buddha who also developed the eightfold Path, facing challenges and periods of slackness on their journey.[16]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The individuals who followed and learned from the Buddha, including prominent figures like Sariputta and Moggallana.[17]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The animals who crossed over the deer king's back are referred to as the Buddha's present disciples.[18] (2) Adherents of the Buddha's teachings who seek true wisdom rather than relying on incorrect forms of absorption.[19] (3) Buddha's disciples are those who, while acknowledging the doctrine of non-self, still engage in conventional language and do not cling to the concept of self.[20] (4) Individuals who follow the teachings of the Buddha, categorized into seven distinct groups, reflecting the inclusive nature of Buddhist practice.[21] (5) Individuals who follow the teachings of the Buddha and practice the virtues of loving-kindness and compassion.[22]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Individuals who follow and learn from the Buddha’s teachings, often participating in acts of reverence such as bowing.[23] (2) The followers of the Buddha, who show respect and seek knowledge from his teachings.[24] (3) Refers to Bhadrapala's status after achieving enlightenment and being recognized as a follower of the Buddha.[25] (4) Individuals who have accepted the teachings of the Buddha, regardless of their previous paths, having undergone transformation upon following his teachings.[26]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The beings who follow the teachings of the Tathagata and seek to attain understanding and emancipation.[27] (2) Individuals who follow the teachings of the Buddha, striving to practice and understand the Dharma.[28]
From: Mulamadhyamaka-karika (English)
(1) When perfect buddhas do not appear, and when their disciples have died out, the wisdom of the self-awakened ones will vividly arise without reliance.[29]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Followers and supporters of the Buddha, particularly those who accompanied Dipankara and honored him.[30] (2) The followers of the Buddha who embody his teachings and attain Enlightenment.[31]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) Individuals who follow the teachings and precepts laid down by Buddha, determined true based on adherence to doctrine and tradition.[32]
Hindu concept of 'Buddha's disciples'
In Hinduism, Buddha's disciple, particularly Sariputra, exemplifies the importance of focused meditation and joy, demonstrating how concentration on positive emotions like laughter can enhance spiritual practice and understanding.
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) The example of Buddha’s disciple Sariputra highlights the practice of concentration on laughter.[33]
The concept of Buddha's disciples in local and regional sources
Buddha's disciples were devoted followers of his teachings, seeking spiritual guidance amidst challenges. Their journey often involved personal transformation and deepening their understanding of Buddhist principles through dedication and practice.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Individuals who followed the teachings of Buddha and sought spiritual guidance, often facing challenges and conversion.[34]