Significance of Pali literature
Pali literature encompasses a range of literary works written in the Pali language, significant for the study of Buddhist teachings and history. It is classified into three historical periods and includes key texts like the Dhammapada, reflecting important cultural and religious contexts. The literature addresses various aspects of Buddhism, from teachings and practices to social structures, and has relevance in regions such as Sri Lanka and India. This body of work underlines the importance of Pali in understanding Buddhist doctrines and history.
Synonyms: Pali canon, Theravada scriptures, Pali scriptures, Ancient indian literature, Sacred writings
In Dutch: Pali-literatuur; In Finnish: Palilainen kirjallisuus; In Spanish: Literatura pali
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Pali literature'
Pali literature in Buddhism comprises essential texts in the Pali language, addressing teachings and history, especially in regions like Ceylon. It spans three periods and includes significant works, such as the Dhammapada, reflecting cultural and religious influences.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A body of work composed in Pali, which is historically categorized into three periods—early, middle, and later—with significant developments in Sri Lanka.[1] (2) The body of written works in the Pali language, which encompasses Buddhist texts and teachings.[2]
From: Dipavamsa (study)
(1) Literary texts written in the Pali language, significant in the study of Buddhist teachings and history as shown by developments outlined in the Dipavamsa.[3] (2) A body of texts written in Pali, significant to the teachings and history of Buddhism in regions such as Ceylon.[4]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) The collection of ancient texts in Pali which do not prioritize asceticism in the way it is commonly understood in the West.[5]
From: The Catu-Bhanavara-Pali (critical study)
(1) The collection of texts which includes references to the Buddha's recommendations for reciting short verses that provide protection from afflictions.[6]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) The body of literature written in Pali, including important texts like the Dhammapada that hold cultural and religious significance.[7]
From: Karandavyuha Sutra
(1) Literary works preserved in the Pali language, which display a uniformity in composition, derived from multiple speech influences.[8]
Hindu concept of 'Pali literature'
Pali literature in Hinduism encompasses ancient texts that offer valuable insights into social structures, particularly illuminating the marital traditions of sovereigns and the societal norms of the time.
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) Ancient texts that provide insights into the social structures of societies, including the marital traditions of sovereigns.[9]
The concept of Pali literature in local and regional sources
Pali literature encompasses texts in the Pali language crucial for understanding Buddhist teachings, specifically highlighting concepts like dana, which encompasses amisadanam (material giving) and dhammadanam (spiritual giving).
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) A collection of texts in the Pali language that contains important teachings and concepts, including the idea of dana as amisadanam and dhammadanam.[10]