RG ST 3 Study Guide - Final Guide: Lotus Sutra, Platform Sutra, Bodhisattva Vow
Document Summary
Failed to spread in china (in comparison to mahayana) More strict on monastic rules, cultic practices and metaphysical doctrine. People cannot reach enlightenment by themselves; they need other forms of power like the buddha amitabha to help them. Fusion of indian buddhism with chinese culture. Teaches that all beings can attain buddhahood following the one vehicle or buddha. The buddha is eternal and his attainment and parinirvana were only expedient means. Expedient means = different skillful strategies to teach people how to attain enlightenment; varies depending on buddha"s audience. Pejorative name given by mahayana to theravada that means lesser wheel . A form of buddhism that emphasizes on the need to help others reach enlightenment. Came in multiple new forms like chan/zen, pure land, etc. Devotion to the god amitabha in order to be reborn in his pure land as a means of attaining enlightenment. A buddhist school that promotes the lotus sutra as the highest teaching in buddhism.
