Plain Explanation of the Awakening of Wisdom Sutra -- Series of Buddhist Cultural Essence

Author: Jing Sanlong, Shao Ziqian (Translation and Annotation)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2002-10-01
Features: The Leng Yan Jing (also known as the Great Buddha's Crown Sutra on the Profound Dharma's Intrinsic Cause and Practice), is one of the major scriptures of Chinese Mahayana Buddhism. Since it was translated into Chinese by the Central Indian scholar Paramartha during the Tang Dynasty, it has been highly valued by Buddhist followers and scholars across generations. Alongside the Huayan Jing (Perfection of Wisdom Sutra) and the Fahua Jing (Lotus Sutra), it has become a crucial reference for the transmission of Mahayana Buddhism in China.
Buddhism originated in ancient India around the 6th century BCE. It was introduced to China around the beginning of the Common Era and, after long-term integration with traditional Chinese culture, evolved into Chinese Buddhism with distinct national characteristics. It gave rise to numerous sects, displaying a diverse and vibrant landscape. In terms of philosophy, Buddhism resonated with the Xuanxue (Neo-Daoism) that flourished during the Wei and Jin periods, appealing to scholars and literati. It reached its zenith during the Sui and Tang dynasties, complementing Confucianism and Daoism, forming a tripartite synthesis. Throughout the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, it became the traditional scholarship of Chinese literati, with many great monks and scholarly giants emerging. Buddhist studies became an important and profound component of traditional Chinese culture.
The Leng Yan Jing is a scripture highly revered by all schools of Chinese Buddhism and has long been cherished by scholars across generations. Its commentaries and annotations have been passed down continuously, remaining vibrant to this day. Over forty versions have been preserved, and it has spread overseas, with Japan alone boasting over forty commentaries. The text is exquisite, often employing paired parallel phrases, excelling in both literary expression and philosophical depth. For example, the passage: "Like a sun's reflection appearing in a body of water. Two people observe it together. As they move east and west, each sees their own sun," though concise, conveys profound meaning and serves to enlighten the mind.
The Plain Language Leng Yan Jing is one of the Buddhist cultural essence series published by Sanqin Publishing House. The author meticulously translates, annotates, and explains the Leng Yan Jing word by word, making it accessible for scholars and enthusiasts of Buddhist scriptures to read and collect.