In Buddhism

Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism)

Source: Wisdom Library: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

Anāgatabuddha (अनागतबुद्ध) refers to the “Buddhas of the future”, according to Mahāprajñāpāramitāśāstra (chapter 3).—Accordingly, as the Buddha said to Ānanda: “[...] As for the precious basket of the Dharma compiled during three incalculable periods, it must begin with the following phrase: ‘Thus have I heard at one time (evaṃ mayā śrutam ekasmin samaye); the Buddha was dwelling in such and such a place, in such and such a country, in such and such a grove…’ Why [this beginning]? Sūtras all began with this formula among the Buddhas of the past (atītabuddha); Sūtras all will begin with this formula among the Buddhas of the future (anāgatabuddha); finally, the Buddhas of the present (pratyutpannabuddha), at the moment of their parinirvāṇa, also teach this formula. Henceforth, after my parinirvāṇa, Sūtras must also begin with this formula: evaṃ mayā śrutam skasmin samaye”.

context information

Mahayana (महायान, mahāyāna) is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sūtras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajñāpāramitā sūtras.

See also (Relevant definitions)

Partial matches: Buddha, Anagata.

Full-text: Atitabuddha, Pratyutpannabuddha.

Relevant text

Search found 1 books and stories containing Anagatabuddha, Anāgatabuddha, Anāgata-buddha, Anagata-buddha; (plurals include: Anagatabuddhas, Anāgatabuddhas, buddhas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra (by Gelongma Karma Migme Chödrön)

Part 1 - The Buddha is omniscient, independent, without a teacher < [Chapter III - General Explanation of Evam Maya Śruta]

Part 5 - The Bodhisattva in the Mahāyāna system < [Chapter VIII - The Bodhisattvas]

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