Significance of Stanza
In Buddhism, the term Stanza encompasses various poetic expressions and structured verses that convey teachings and moral lessons across different traditions. In Theravada, it includes verses recited by figures like the Bodhisatta and the Jackal, encapsulating insights on life and ethics. Mahayana references specific verses in Nagarjuna’s Karika, while in general, Stanza reflects a poetic format serving to express thoughts, teachings, and reflections on experiences, emphasizing the significance of wisdom and understanding in moral narratives.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Stanza'
In Buddhism, "Stanza" encompasses various poetic forms that convey reflections, moral lessons, and teachings. It serves as a structured medium for expressing thoughts on existence, wisdom, and moral significance through narrative dialogues and teachings.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A form of poetic verses recited by the Master at the end of the story to summarize the moral lesson.[1] (2) A poetic phrase recited by the king which encapsulated the moral lesson about understanding and perception of the Judas tree.[2] (3) A group of lines in a poem; in this case, delivered by the Bodhisatta, serving as a moral conclusion to the tale.[3] (4) A structured verse that conveys thoughts or feelings, particularly used in the dialogue of pigs expressing their sentiments.[4] (5) A verse shared by the Bodhisatta to teach the young brahmin about the unpredictable nature of women.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A poetic form used by the great teacher to convey the importance of knowledge and understanding among an assembly of people.[6]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A structural component of the kie 'verses', synonymous with k’ie-to and gatha.[7] (2) A structural unit in poetic works, here referring to specific verses in Nagarjuna’s Karika where he presents his arguments.[8] (3) Poetic verses or lines recited by the mother of Punarvasu as a reprimand to her children.[9]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The structured poetic verses that encompass the teachings and narratives found in the commentary of the text.[10] (2) A poetic expression uttered by the thera to reflect on his former deeds after attaining arahat status.[11]