Significance of Canonical text
Canonical text refers to authoritative scriptures that guide various religious practices and philosophical understandings across different traditions. In Jainism, it encompasses revered writings that reflect Mahavira's teachings. In Buddhism, it includes key texts recognized as foundational for understanding Buddhist doctrine, such as the Vinaya and Sutras. These texts are essential for monks' practices and provide guidelines for spiritual development in both Theravada and Mahayana traditions. Additionally, they contribute to the understanding of historical contexts within Indian traditions, illustrating a broad spectrum of spiritual guidance.
Synonyms: Authoritative text
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Canonical text'
Canonical texts in Buddhism are sacred scriptures containing the Buddha's teachings, authoritative writings like the Vinaya and Sutras, and guidelines for practices. They are essential for understanding Buddhist doctrine and illustrate the tradition's development.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Religious writings that Bodhisattvas offer as part of their generosity to the Dharma teachers.[1] (2) Religious writings that provide guidelines on the process of becoming an upasaka.[2] (3) Sacred literature that contains the teachings of the Buddha, providing a foundation for understanding the nature of existence.[3] (4) Religious writings recognized as authoritative sources that frequently reference Buddha’s teachings.[4] (5) Early texts that propose more comprehensive lists of terminology and concepts in Buddhism, illustrating the development of ideas.[5]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Authoritative scriptures in Buddhism, with the Mahavastu being characterized as part of this broader literary tradition.[6]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) The body of scripts that comprise the authoritative writings of Buddhism, including the Vinaya and Sutras established after Sakya-muni's death.[7]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The sacred scriptures of Buddhism containing the teachings of the Buddha that monks study and practice.[8] (2) Religious scriptures that outline teachings and practices related to Dana and other virtues.[9] (3) Authoritative scriptures that outline the teachings of Buddhism.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The set of scriptures central to Buddhism that were preserved and compiled by monks in the early councils after the Buddha's passing.[11]
From: Dipavamsa (study)
(1) The sacred writings and scriptures that were revised and reinterpreted during the Mahasanghika period.[12]
Hindu concept of 'Canonical text'
In Hinduism, Canonical text encompasses authoritative writings detailing Puranic characteristics and serves as essential guides for the study and practice of architecture, sculpture, and related arts, establishing fundamental standards in these disciplines.
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) References to various texts that detail characteristics of the Puranas and their compilations.[13]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) Established texts that serve as authoritative guides or standards in the practice and study of architecture, sculpture, and related arts.[14]
Jain concept of 'Canonical text'
Canonical text in Jainism comprises the sacred scriptures that govern monks' conduct, embodying authoritative teachings of Mahavira and essential principles of Jaina philosophy, guiding spiritual practices and beliefs.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The authoritative scriptures or writings that guide a monk's conduct and practices.[15] (2) The sacred texts that guide a monk's conduct and activities in accordance with spiritual principles.[16] (3) Sacred writings that are authoritative in the context of spiritual teachings and beliefs.[17]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) The revered scriptures of Jainism, believed to contain the teachings of Mahavira and significant for understanding Jaina philosophy.[18]
The concept of Canonical text in local and regional sources
Canonical text encompasses authoritative scriptures in Buddhism, guiding practitioners through the Buddha's teachings and also includes texts from the Bon tradition that enrich the understanding of Nyatri Tsanpo’s heritage.
From: Tibet (Myth, Religion and History)
(1) The authoritative scriptures from both Buddhist and Bon traditions that contribute to the understanding of Nyatri Tsanpo’s heritage.[19]
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) The authoritative scriptures in Buddhism that contain the teachings of the Buddha, serving as a reference for practitioners.[20]