Significance of Sutra
Synonyms: Text, Scripture, Manual, Aphorism, Doctrine, Teaching, Guideline, Rule., Canon, Scriptures, Texts, Teachings
In German: Sutra; In Finnish: Sutra; In Spanish: Sutra; In Swedish: Sutra; In Malay: Sutra; In French: Sutra; In Portugese: Sutra; In Italian: Sutra; In Polish: Sutra; In Dutch: Soetra
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sutra'
In Buddhism, a Sutra is a sacred text or scripture. It contains teachings and discourses attributed to the Buddha, the Bodhisattva, and the nature of reality. These texts are fundamental for study, practice, and understanding the Dharma, guiding practitioners on the path to enlightenment.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The sutras are mentioned as sources that state the Buddha is truthful and also discuss the concept of infinity, influencing the discussion on omniscience.[1] (2) A Sutra is referenced as part of a discussion about beings in the three bad destinies and the bodhisattva-mahasattva's wish for them to attain human existence.[2] (3) It is a discourse attributed to the Buddha, mentioning that the eye is empty and without 'me' or 'mine' because that is its essence.[3] (4) According to the text, the bodhisattva-mahasattva should cultivate wisdom to comprehend all dharmas, encompassing past, present, and future, along with their dharma-nature.[4] (5) Sutra refers to a passage describing how the trisahasramahasahasralokadhatu, due to the enchantment of bouquets of flowers and garlands, assumes a golden color, mirroring this phenomenon across numerous Buddha-universes.[5]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Is the text where Ananda puts his palms together, bowed, and speaks to the Buddha about understanding the sequence for releasing the knots.[6] (2) This refers to the direct teachings of the Buddha, which are being explained and interpreted to provide a deeper understanding of the path to enlightenment.[7] (3) Are compiled by Ananda, where he described the light, indicating it was based on personal witnessing.[8] (4) Do not become too attached to what it says, as it gives a general idea of what might happen, but each particular situation may be different.[9] (5) The Sutra recounts Ucchushma's past encounter with a Buddha named King of Emptiness, who taught him contemplation of coolness and warmth.[10]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The sutras of Wonderful Dharma are not understood by many bhiksus, who are indolent and lazy, like ignorant robbers abandoning true treasure.[11] (2) I state in my sutras that if the world-fleeing observe the precepts and make effort as set forth in the state, the King also shares in the good which is practised.[12] (3) The Buddhist scriptures that are slandered by those with perverted views, and which contain the deep meaning of the precepts.[13] (4) A type of scripture in Buddhism that contains teachings of the Buddha and is used for study and practice among followers.[14] (5) Buddhist scriptures that contain teachings of the Buddha, often recited and expounded upon for the purpose of understanding the Dharma.[15]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) This one of the Wanderer Dirghanakha is to be supplied according to the tradition of the provided material.[16] (2) A sacred text in Buddhism that records the teachings of the Buddha.[17] (3) A type of scripture or discourse in Buddhism containing teachings attributed to the Buddha.[18] (4) A Buddhist scripture or text that contains teachings attributed to the Buddha.[19]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) The Sutra of the Past Vows of Earth Store Bodhisattva is to be circulated so that all beings can receive the benefits from the teachings and practices.[20] (2) The teachings and discourses attributed to the Buddha, which guide beings on the path to enlightenment.[21] (3) The scriptures or texts in Buddhism that record the teachings of the Buddha and can guide practitioners on their spiritual journey.[22] (4) Scriptures or texts in Buddhism that contain teachings and discourses spoken by the Buddha or his followers.[23]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) Sutras are texts that good men and women keep and recite, along with images of bodhisattvas, to gain protection from floods, fire, thieves, disasters, and unfortunate events.[24] (2) A text dedicated to the public domain, translated by Alex Amies in 2013.[25] (3) This is one of the main sources of knowledge about Kshitigarbha.[26] (4) Sacred texts that may be recited as part of spiritual practices to benefit the dying or deceased, emphasizing the importance of Buddhist teachings.[27]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) These texts, along with treatises, were written in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Apabhramsha and Pishaci.[28] (2) Sutra is a term referring to the discourses, and it is one of the twelve sections of scriptures, found within the tripitaka.[29] (3) Sacred texts or scriptures in Buddhist tradition that contain teachings.[30]
From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra
(1) At the age of twenty-four, the Master heard this and awoke to the Way, which led him to seek the seal of approval.[31] (2) The elementary texts and scriptures in Buddhism that convey teachings and guide practitioners on the path to enlightenment.[32]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) A Buddhist scripture that contains teachings attributed to the Buddha, conveying deep philosophical insights and practices.[33] (2) Sacred texts belonging to Buddhism that contain the teachings of the Buddha.[34]
From: Avatamsaka Sutra (flower adornment sutra)—Preface
(1) A sacred text, in this case the Flower Adornment Sutra, containing the teachings of the Buddha.[35] (2) Textual scriptures in Buddhism that are considered teachings of the Buddha, which are inexhaustible and encompassing.[36]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) Sacred texts of Buddhism that contain teachings of the Buddha and are recited as part of spiritual practice.[37]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) The book uses the term sutra to describe the many primary texts, anecdotes, quotes, poems, and songs that document the experiences of issei and nisei.[38] (2) It is a text on the Heart of the Spirit Spell of the Eleven-Headed Avalokiteshvara, showing familiarity with dharani procedures used in empowering images and rituals to eliminate illnesses.[39] (3) Sutra, specifically the Lotus Sutra, is a biography of the Lotus Sutra in the sense that they contain details about how the scripture was received, conceptualised, and treated.[40] (4) Buddhist scriptures recited by monks to create merit for the deceased.[41] (5) Sutra is a religious text, such as the Dharani Sutra for Buddhoshnisha Vijaya, which provides instructions on rituals, including the construction of mandalas and the recitation of dharani.[42]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) Scriptures and teachings in Buddhism, often characterized by their philosophy and practice.[43]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Sacred texts that document the teachings of the Buddha, including descriptions of the benefits and activities of the nirmanakayas.[44]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) These are religious texts whose permanent recitation was a rule. This practice was established by sangs rgyas yar byon within the monastery.[45] (2) Scriptural texts that contain various characteristics and teachings of the Buddha, important in the framework of sgam po pa's teachings.[46] (3) The teachings attributed to the Buddha, forming the foundational texts of Buddhism that are often commented upon by scholars.[47] (4) Sacred texts in Buddhism, typically written in a concise format that conveys teachings attributed to the Buddha.[48] (5) Sacred texts in Buddhism that were studied by chos kyi bzang po, highlighting his dedication to religious scholarship.[49]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A statement which has been pronounced by Kambalashvatara, which is also the subject of Kamalashila’s commentary, is explained within the provided text.[50] (2) This is a specific statement or verse that is referenced and provides information regarding the actions, specifically 'Going up, going down, contracting, expanding and moving'.[51] (3) A statement or verse within a text that encapsulates philosophical or doctrinal teachings, referenced in the context of Number.[52]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A type of scripture; Sona studied the Sutta-nipata during his monastic life.[53]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) The canonical scriptures of Buddhism, which include teachings and doctrines alongside the Dhammapada.[54]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A term often used to denote the discourses or teachings attributed to the Buddha.[55]
Hindu concept of 'Sutra'
In Hinduism, a Sutra is a concise, aphoristic statement serving as a foundational element. It encapsulates philosophical, spiritual, or grammatical principles in a brief, often cryptic form, requiring interpretation. Sutras are used in ancient texts, forming the basis for further discussion and understanding.
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A verse that confirms the same view as the previous one, dealing with the concept of release and meditation.[56] (2) This is a text that sets aside the previous opinion and states that the injunction of meditations is valid for all the schools of texts.[57] (3) This refers to a text, as we now proceed to explain the Sutra.[58] (4) A text or statement that addresses the demolition of the Sankhya doctrine which is not accepted by the Veda.[59] (5) A concise statement or aphorism which guides interpretations and discussions of the Vedanta texts, often clarifying complex teachings.[60]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The text refers to the Sutra in order to provide a reply to a question about the use of the injunction of Muniship.[61] (2) The Sutra replies to an objection about the prana's instrumental relation to the soul, addressing the need for a sense-object analogous to color and its associated functions.[62] (3) The Sutra expresses in the words, 'for it denies the suchness which forms the topic of discussion'. The Sutra also gives another argument establishing the same conclusion, 'and the text enounces something more than that,' and the words of the Sutra must be taken to refer to the name mentioned in the text, 'Then comes the name, the True of the True; the senses being the True and he the True of them'.[63] (4) This provides an additional reason for the rejection of the interpretation of the previous statement, indicating a contradiction is the reason for the rejection.[64] (5) The text references a specific text that emphasizes the role of actions in supporting knowledge, highlighting a particular point of view regarding the connection between actions and understanding.[65]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The provided text references a specific verse, identified as Sutra 4,1.13, which contains a declaration about the effects of realizing Brahman, particularly concerning the consequences of past and future actions.[66] (2) Apostolic aphorisms meant to serve as memory aids for discussions on topics which students study with their teachers.[67] (3) A term referring to the aphorisms or succinct statements that encapsulate philosophical teachings, including those about discarding deeds.[68]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The thread or principle that connects all lives and beings, described as Vayu, holding them together.[69] (2) A term referring to a concise statement or aphorism that captures core philosophical teachings, often serving as a foundational element in philosophical discourses.[70]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The supreme thread that connects all beings, indicating the essential unity of existence.[71] (2) A thread or connection to the supreme reality, symbolically representing knowledge and the essence of being within the spiritual context.[72]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The foundational principle connecting the Universal Self to both gross and subtle aspects of the universe.[73]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) It is a rule, specifically P. 5.1.117, that separately shows a particular difference and aids the unintelligent in understanding something already taught previously.[74] (2) A rule or aphorism, specifically P. 1.2.27 and P. 3.1.33, which serve as examples to illustrate the concept of equality and difference in number.[75] (3) The provided text mentions that what is mentioned within the sutra is understood as existing in both identically, suggesting it has a specific role.[76] (4) If this contained only dhatau, it would primarily convey action and its associated power to accomplish it.[77] (5) Sutras are used for teaching meanings of suffixes, and the text mentions that the gender and number conveyed by them are not necessarily related to their proximity, but the words derived from the suffixes can have different genders and numbers.[78]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The subtle aspect of the Divine that connects to the cosmos, facilitating the manifestation of the universe's structure.[79] (2) Guidelines or formulas that dictate specific practices during the Brahma Yajna.[80] (3) A concise statement of spiritual truths, often used in the context of meditation.[81]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) A set of aphorisms or concise statements in philosophical texts that convey fundamental concepts of the Samkhya and Nyaya schools.[82]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Sutras are not directly mentioned in the text, but are part of the Vedas, which are the central text of the story.[83]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The term sutra refers to the sutras that were explained very nicely according to the people, but Vishvarupa Prabhu claimed they did not understand anything.[84] (2) This refers to the concise statements or aphorisms, which are the subject of the speaker's explanations.[85] (3) These were explained by the Supreme Lord Vishvambhara according to the grammatical rules, as described in the provided text, indicating a structured and organized exposition.[86] (4) A concise statement or aphorism in Sanskrit literature, often the basis for philosophical discussion.[87] (5) The teachings or texts that Lord Vishvarupa is explaining.[88]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A concise or aphoristic statement within the text, often referring to broader philosophical or ritual concepts that guide the understanding of sacrifices.[89]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A concise and aphoristic statement used in ancient Indian texts, serving as foundational elements of larger philosophical or legal doctrines.[90]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) Concise aphoristic statements that summarize ideas in Hindu philosophy, law, or rituals, often forming the basis of larger texts.[91]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Refers to the sacred texts that are authored by various individuals, as mentioned in the text.[92]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) Deliberate aphoristic statements that form the core structure of the Grihya-sutras and are arranged by the compiler for clarity and succinctness.[93]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) Concise aphoristic statements that serve as guidelines or rules in the context of Hindu rituals and legal codes.[94]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A Sutra is a concise aphorism or rule, and the Gobhiliya-sutra quotes the first words of the Mantras, which would have no meaning without the knowledge of the Mantra-Brahmana.[95]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A genre of texts that serves as aphoristic rules and guidelines for Brahmanical practices, with Baudhayana's being partially preserved but corrupt in later manuscripts.[96]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) A reference text that serves as an authoritative source to illustrate the qualities inherent in Space.[97] (2) A foundational text that provides definitions and explanations for the ideas related to Conjunction and its applications.[98] (3) Scriptural verses mentioned as references to support the qualities of Fire.[99] (4) A concise statement or formula in the context of traditional texts that outline philosophical or logical concepts.[100]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) These were composed significantly later than the era of the individuals to whom authorship is attributed, sharing a similar timeline with other Hindu texts.[101]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Abbreviated texts or aphorisms that encapsulate essential teachings and guidelines within various Indian spiritual traditions.[102] (2) Scriptural texts recited by Buddhas representing Orthodox teachings distinct from Tantras.[103] (3) A Sutra is a concise aphorism or set of principles that outlines philosophical concepts or spiritual practices in Indian traditions, often forming the basis for further explanation.[104]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) A Sutra is where a rule is explained briefly with a minimal number of words, and it is then called the Memorial Verse that clarifies the meaning of the rule.[105] (2) An aphoristic statement or formula in the Natyashastra, which may not always be presented in a prose format as traditionally understood.[106]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Textual compilations that offer guidelines and explanations for Vedic rituals, including those associated with sacrifice.[107]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Sacred texts that did not denounce the practice of polyandry, differentiating it from the views held by Aryans.[108]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) Sutras are created in the name of Panini, and they are of six types: Sangya (Noun), Paribhasha (Def.), Vidhi (Law), Niyam (Rule), Atidesh, and Adhikar (Rights), which are used to understand grammar.[109]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Textual formulations that likely systematized the teachings of the Pancaratra tradition during a later age.[110]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) Guidelines provided for the handling of bricks and masonry tools to achieve proper construction.[111]
Jain concept of 'Sutra'
In Jainism, Sutra encompasses various meanings. It can be administrative areas, ethical/spiritual teachings, verses, aphorisms, and sacred texts. Sutras convey philosophical truths, outline purification stages, and contain Tirthankara's words. They also describe celestial classifications, and essential teachings.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A succinct statement or verse in the context of philosophical or spiritual texts that conveys significant meaning or instruction.[112] (2) Sutra refers to a statement or aphorism in the scripture that conveys important teachings or principles about the nature of the divine and their lifetimes.[113] (3) The concise statement or aphorism from which the broader implications regarding the mind and beings are derived, in this case relating to 'samanaskah'.[114] (4) A series of aphorisms or teachings in Jain literature that Tanisha will memorize.[115] (5) The reference to a specific statement or verse from scripture that conveys the essential teachings regarding the luminary deva.[116]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Was not kidnapped by me, while she was occupying her own home, like a lotus by an elephant, with evil intention.[117] (2) Textual materials that contain teachings or doctrines, some of which are cited or referenced in the narrative.[118] (3) A masculine noun meaning a name of province; indicates administrative areas.[119] (4) A rule or aphorism, especially in the context of Indian philosophy or spirituality.[120] (5) Analyzes divisions or stages of purification that a jiva must navigate to reach higher spiritual states.[121]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The Sutra is a text that is being translated, and it contains the words of the Tirthankara, and it is also described as having scientific methodology, terminology, and illustrations to help with the translation.[122] (2) Sacred texts in which philosophical teachings and ethical guidelines are outlined regarding various aspects of life and existence.[123] (3) The teachings and texts that outline the ethical and spiritual practices, which Skandaka wishes to learn from Mahavira.[124]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) This is one of the ways faith is produced, also known as study of the sutras. It is when someone obtains righteousness by the study of the Sutras, either Angas or other works.[125]
The concept of Sutra in local and regional sources
Sutra encompasses diverse meanings. It refers to requested texts, Jain and Buddhist scriptures, concise philosophical statements, and a genre of sacred texts. It also represents a source of information, a thread for neti practice, and aphorisms central to Vedanta philosophy.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Sutras are the aphoristic statements found in Arthasastra, and the text mentions the enumeration of Sutras in serial order for easy reference.[126] (2) At some places one or more of the 18 ‘Vidyas’ were taught; and at some of them, Logic, and Buddhist ‘sutras’ and ‘tantras’ also.[127] (3) A type of text for which Nagoji Dikshit was writing a gloss to elucidate their underlying meaning and intricate concepts.[128] (4) Concise statements or aphorisms that encapsulate the teachings of the Indian philosophical systems, often requiring extensive commentary for interpretation.[129] (5) Sacred texts in Buddhism that encapsulate the teachings of the Buddha.[130]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is the thread used in the practice of neti, where it is threaded through the nostrils.[131] (2) Sutra refers to the books of the Shvetambara Jaina canon, like the Bhagavati Sutra and the Sthananga Sutra, which are composed in Arddha-Magadhi Prakrit, and are considered encyclopaedic works.[132] (3) This refers to a religious text, and is mentioned in the provided text, and used as a source for information.[133]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The Sutras are books requested by the author, implying it is among the texts Kali should acquire and bring, representing a desired piece of literature, specifically in plural form.[134] (2) These are the aphorisms of Vyasa which are, in modern India, the basis of the Vedanta philosophy, and have been variously explained by different commentators.[135]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Those who recite these honour Purnamaitrayaniputra.[136] (2) A genre of sacred texts in Buddhism that expounds various teachings, including those understood by Asanga and his disciples.[137]
The concept of Sutra in scientific sources
Sutra, in Sanskrit literature, particularly Ayurveda, is a concise aphorism or formula. These short expressions are foundational, serving to convey complex knowledge and concepts in a succinct and easily remembered manner.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Sutra is used to refer to a sacred text, especially one said to record the words of the Buddha and these texts often contain information on foxing.[138] (2) The "sutras" are religious texts, with specific sutras from the Saṃyuktagama mentioned as being translated in Old Uyghur manuscripts.[139] (3) This term refers to a text composed by the individual, titled 'The Scripture of the Golden Eternity' in 1956, and the individual spent countless hours writing about a specific religion in diaries, eventually collecting the material into a published work.[140]