Chinese Classical Masterpieces Translation and Annotation Series (First Series) -- The Diamond Sutra · The Platform Sutra

Author: Deng Yuying
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-01-01
Features: The brilliant gem in Buddhist scriptures, the Diamond Sutra, also known as the Sutra of the Diamond Prajna that Cuts Through Illusion, is one of the most important texts in the Mahayana Prajna category. It means using the wisdom of the Diamond Prajna to cut through delusions and erroneous thoughts, enabling all sentient beings to escape the Three Realms and attain liberation, reaching the shore beyond the of birth and death. Its main theme is the propagation of the Buddhist doctrine of "emptiness and illusory existence." The four lines of verse at the end of the scroll, "All conditioned phenomena are like dreams, illusions, bubbles, and shadows; like dew and lightning, they should be contemplated thus," embody the essence of this scripture. It is a record by Ananda, a Buddhist disciple, of the answers given by Shakyamuni Buddha to Subhuti regarding Buddhist doctrine.
The Platform Sutra, the only Chinese Buddhist scripture revered as a "sutra," fully titled the Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch, is the enlightenment journey of the founder of Chan Buddhism, the Sixth Patriarch Huineng, and his teachings on the Dharma. Its main theme is that the mind-nature is inherently pure, the Buddha-nature is inherently present, and one becomes a Buddha by realizing one's true nature. It asserts that all sentient beings can become Buddhas, advocating the sudden realization of one's true nature from within, with cultivation methods centered on "non-attachment," "non-form," and "non-abiding." This reflects the fundamental tenets and doctrines of Chinese Chan Buddhism.