Significance of Chinese characters
In Mahayana, Chinese characters are described as written symbols utilized in the Chinese language that signify specific ideas or sounds. These characters play a crucial role in conveying meanings and concepts within the context of the Mahayana tradition, emphasizing their importance in communication and cultural significance. Their representation of ideas reflects deeper philosophical and spiritual notions inherent in the Mahayana teachings.
Synonyms: Kanji
In Dutch: Chinese karakters; In Finnish: Kiinalaisia merkkejä
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Chinese characters'
Chinese characters in Buddhism can be interpreted as written symbols that convey specific ideas or sounds, serving as essential tools for expressing and communicating Buddhist concepts within the context of the Chinese language.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Written symbols used in the Chinese language that represent specific ideas or sounds.[1]
The concept of Chinese characters in local and regional sources
Chinese characters are symbols in Chinese writing that represent entire words or parts of words, evolving from ancient pictographs over thousands of years into a unique, complex written language system.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Symbols used in Chinese writing that represent whole words or parts of words, with roots in ancient pictographic systems.[2] (2) The unique written symbols used in Chinese writing that originated as signs and were developed over thousands of years.[3]