Significance of Major and minor marks
In Buddhism, major and minor marks refer to the physical attributes of a buddha, symbolizing his enlightened nature. There are thirty-two major marks representing prominent qualities and eighty minor marks indicating subtler attributes. These features not only signify the essence of sambhogakaya but also highlight the importance of the buddha's physical form as a reflection of spiritual attainment. Across various Buddhist traditions, major and minor marks serve as distinguishing characteristics that denote the perfection and virtues of a fully realized being.
Synonyms: Primary and secondary marks
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Major and minor marks'
Major and minor marks in Buddhism denote the prominent and subtle physical attributes of the Buddha, symbolizing his enlightenment and spiritual perfection, with thirty-two major and eighty minor marks illustrating the qualities of a fully realized being.
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The physical manifestations of a Buddha, denoting their enlightened attributes.[1] (2) Refers to the distinguishing features of a buddha, where major marks symbolize prominent qualities, and minor marks represent subtle attributes.[2] (3) The various qualities and attributes that signify spiritual attainment and mastery, often associated with enlightened beings.[3] (4) Physical and spiritual characteristics associated with the Buddha that signify his enlightened state.[4] (5) Physical attributes of the Buddha, where the major marks represent more significant virtuous qualities than the minor marks.[5]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) Features of the Buddha-solidifier that reflect its transcendence beyond mundane forms and aggregates.[6] (2) Physical signs or attributes that signify a fully realized being, such as a buddha, with major marks indicating prominent qualities and minor marks indicating lesser ones.[7] (3) Physical signs or attributes on the buddha-body that signify its perfected nature.[8] (4) Physical characteristics that adorn the buddha-body, indicating its perfection.[9] (5) Distinct physical features or manifestations associated with the buddha-body that contribute to its universal and diverse representation across different world-systems.[10]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Physical characteristics attributed to the Buddha, symbolizing his spiritual qualities and enlightenment.[11] (2) Characteristics that adorned the bodhisattva, signifying his noble nature.[12] (3) The physical attributes that adorn the Buddhas, visible to the son or daughter of good family during dreams.[13] (4) The distinctive physical features attributed to the Buddha, consisting of thirty-two major marks and eighty minor marks.[14] (5) Distinct categories of marks associated with spiritual accomplishments, representing both complete and incomplete attributes.[15]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Physical attributes that signify a great person, which Ambattha is curious about regarding the Buddha.[16] (2) Physical signs on the Bodhisatta that are believed to portend his future greatness.[17]