Significance of Buddhas of the three times
Buddhas of the three times in Buddhism refers to enlightened beings existing across past, present, and future, characterized by their universal presence in a state called dharmata. This concept highlights their continuity and wisdom, serving as eternal guides for spiritual practitioners. In both Tibetan and Mahayana Buddhism, this phrase emphasizes that these Buddhas have sought to alleviate the suffering of sentient beings and possess shared qualities, underscoring their timeless teachings and significance across various time periods.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Buddhas of the three times'
The term "Buddhas of the three times" encompasses all enlightened beings—past, present, and future—highlighting their shared qualities, teachings, and significance across time, embodying a continuum of wisdom and guidance in Buddhism.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Refers to the Buddhas of the past, present, and future who are believed to hold a connection with Gridhrakutaparvata.[1] (2) A term that refers to Buddhas who have manifested across past, present, and future time periods.[2] (3) Refers to the Buddhas from the past, present, and future, whose teachings can be understood through deep concentration.[3] (4) Refers to the Buddhas that have existed in the past, are present, and will be in the future, emphasizing the timeless nature of their teachings.[4] (5) The Buddhas from the past, present, and future, to whom homage and respect is paid by believers.[5]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Refers to the enlightened beings who have spoken, are speaking, and will speak in the divine language of Sanskrit across past, present, and future.[6] (2) The collective term for all buddhas—those who have taught in the past, those who are teaching in the present, and those who will teach in the future.[7] (3) Refers to all past, present, and future buddhas who have sought methods to alleviate the suffering of sentient beings.[8] (4) The collective term for all buddhas, including those of the past, present, and future, emphasizing their significance across different time periods.[9]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) The Buddhas who have existed in the past, present, and future.[10]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) The enlightened beings recognized across past, present, and future that serve as guides and examples for spiritual practitioners.[11] (2) The Buddhas existing in past, present, and future, who are present in a universal plane without any direct interaction.[12] (3) The enlightened beings that exist across past, present, and future, demonstrating a continuity of wisdom and presence.[13]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) This phrase indicates all the enlightened beings across past, present, and future, existing within the concept of dharmata, yet not perceiving one another.[14]