Significance of Lalitavistara
Lalitavistara is a significant Buddhist scripture that narrates the life and teachings of the Buddha, offering detailed accounts of key events and his Bodhisattva path. This text has various translations and adaptations across Buddhist traditions, including notable versions in Chinese. It is recognized for its emphasis on the Buddha's attributes, significant life events, and its narrative style, marking it as one of the holiest texts in Mahayana Buddhism. The Lalitavistara serves as a crucial resource for understanding Buddhist literature and teachings.
In Dutch: Lalitavistara
In Finnish: Lalitavistara
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Lalitavistara'
Lalitavistara is a significant Buddhist text documenting the life and teachings of the Buddha, particularly emphasizing his past incarnations, notable events, and the Bodhisattva path, serving as a crucial Mahayana scripture.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A longer text that provides additional details on the offerings made by Shakyamuni in his previous existences.[1] (2) One of the texts referencing the netted membrane of the Buddha’s digits, contributing to the understanding of his physical attributes.[2] (3) A text that recounts a story about pratyekabuddhas at Rishipatana and relates to the legend of their nirvana.[3] (4) Another source listed in the context of jnanabalas, noted for its specific page citation.[4] (5) A text in which the avenikabuddhadharmas are mentioned, showcasing their acceptance across different Buddhist traditions.[5]
From: Karandavyuha Sutra
(1) A Buddhist text that is preserved in 'Mixed Sanskrit', detailing the life of the Buddha.[6] (2) One of the significant texts in Buddhist Hybrid Sanskrit, used in Mahayana Buddhism.[7] (3) A Mahayana sutra that narrates the life of the Buddha, focusing on his past incarnations.[8] (4) Considered one of the holiest texts of the Mahayana, it presents the life and acts of the Buddha in a narrative style.[9] (5) The title of a significant Buddhist text that narrates the life and exploits of the Buddha, symbolizing the Mahayana perspective.[10]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A text that is referenced in the context of the last version known as the Shin-t’ung-yaou-hi-king.[11] (2) A significant Buddhist scripture narrating the life of Buddha, which has versions including the one translated as Phu-yau-king.[12] (3) A significant text detailing the life of Buddha, noted for being translated into Chinese by M. Stanislas Julien.[13] (4) A Buddhist scripture that has a Chinese translation referenced in the text.[14] (5) A text that describes the life of the Buddha, which is often associated with Ashvaghosha's works.[15]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A text recounting the life and teachings of the Buddha, illustrating pivotal events and the Bodhisattva path.[16]
Hindu concept of 'Lalitavistara'
Lalitavistara in Hinduism can be interpreted as a Sanskrit text detailing the Buddha's life while also encompassing a rich description of eighty-six arts, blending Buddhist themes with Hindu cultural elements.
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) A text that counts and describes the arts, noting eighty-six in number.[17]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) A Sanskrit text detailing the life of the Buddha, often associated with Mahayana Buddhism.[18]
Jain concept of 'Lalitavistara'
In Jainism, Lalitavistara is seen as a key work by Haribhadrasuri that encapsulates dharma for Siddharshigani and serves as a significant commentary, integrating Sanskrit and Avahattha to enhance Jain literary traditions.
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) A commentary written by Haribhadrasuri, interpreted as blending Sanskrit and Avahattha, enriching Jain scriptural literature.[19] (2) A work that possibly provided the essence of dharma to Siddharshigani, attributed to Haribhadrasuri.[20]
The concept of Lalitavistara in local and regional sources
Lalitavistara is a Sanskrit text detailing the life and teachings of Buddha, highlighting significant events in his journey. Its authorship remains unknown, yet it serves as a crucial resource for understanding Buddhist traditions and narratives.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A Sanskrit text about the life and teachings of the Buddha, whose author is unknown.[21]