Significance of Dharma-doors
The term "Dharma door" in Mahayana Buddhism signifies various methods or pathways that guide practitioners toward spiritual growth and understanding. These metaphorical gateways encompass practices and teachings that enable entry into deep meditative states, enlightenment, and realization of Buddha-qualities. They serve as crucial approaches for engaging with the teachings of the Buddha, facilitating liberation and deeper comprehension of Buddhist principles. The Dharma doors are essential for navigating the complexities of spiritual development within the Buddhist tradition.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Dharma-doors'
The Dharma door in Buddhism signifies various teachings and pathways that facilitate understanding, enlightenment, and liberation, serving as gateways through which practitioners can access and embody the principles of Buddhism.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary by Hsuan Hua)
(1) A term referring to the method or path leading to enlightenment, emphasizing the value of the contemplative practices described.[1] (2) Dharma doors represent the various avenues of understanding and practice within Buddhism, some of which may be provisional and not lead to true realization.[2] (3) A metaphorical term for the path or teaching of the dharma that leads to spiritual realization and liberation.[3] (4) A path or method for spiritual development that leads to enlightenment or deeper understanding.[4] (5) Dharma doors are the various ways or teachings that guide individuals towards understanding and wisdom, often viewed as pathways to enlightenment.[5]
From: Flower Adornment Sutra Preface
(1) The pathways or means through which the principles of Buddhism can be accessed and understood.[6] (2) Methods or pathways to spiritual growth; can be layered and multifaceted according to the teachings of the Sutra.[7] (3) Metaphorical entrances to various teachings and practices within Buddhism that facilitate understanding and enlightenment.[8]
From: The Sutra of the Past Vows of Earth Store Bodhisattva
(1) Various teachings and paths within Buddhism that lead one toward understanding and liberation.[9]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) An entry point into the teachings of the Buddha, leading to the understanding of Buddha-qualities.[10]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Profound teachings of Buddhism through which Vimalakirti entered to help achieve enlightenment.[11]