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Caturaśītisahasra dharmaskandha is a term from Buddhist scriptures that refers to the “Eighty Four Thousand Topics of the Dharma” or “Eighty Four Thousand Dharma Topics.” It is a collection of teachings attributed to the Buddha, encompassing a wide range of topics related to Buddhist philosophy, ethics, meditation, and practical guidance for leading a virtuous life. … Read more

In Buddhism, the concept of the Seven Treasures (七宝, pronounced “Qī Bǎo”) represents a collection of precious items that symbolize various aspects of spiritual wealth and virtue. These treasures are not merely material objects but carry deep symbolic meanings, reflecting the qualities and attributes that are cultivated on the path to enlightenment. The Seven Treasures … Read more

In Mahayana Buddhism, the Six Perfections, known as 六波罗蜜 (pronounced “Liù Bōluómì”) in Chinese and Ṣaḍ Paramita in Sanskrit, represent the essential qualities or practices that a Bodhisattva cultivates on the path to enlightenment. These perfections guide practitioners in their spiritual journey, helping them to develop both wisdom and compassion, which are crucial for achieving … Read more

阿修罗 (pronounced “Āxiūluó”) or Asuras in Sanskrit, are a class of powerful beings that occupy a significant yet complex role in Buddhist cosmology. Known for their intense emotions, particularly anger, pride, and jealousy, Asuras are often depicted as fierce warriors engaged in perpetual conflict, primarily against the Devas (gods). The nature of Asuras reflects the … Read more

Magadha (摩揭陀, pronounced “Mójiétuó”) was one of the most prominent and historically significant regions in ancient India, particularly during the time of the Buddha. Situated in what is now the modern-day state of Bihar in India, Magadha played a crucial role in the early development and spread of Buddhism. It is often regarded as the … Read more

摩睺罗伽 (pronounced “Móhóuluójiā”) refers to the Mahoraga, one of the eight classes of deities and mythical beings known collectively as the 八部众 (Bābùzhòng) or “Eight Classes of Protectors” in Buddhist cosmology. These beings are often depicted as protectors of the Dharma (Buddhist teachings) and are mentioned in various Buddhist scriptures, including the Lotus Sutra (法华经) … Read more

In Buddhism, the term Upāsaka (优婆塞 in Chinese, pronounced “Yōupósài”) refers to a male lay devotee who has committed to following the Buddha’s teachings. The female counterpart is known as Upāsikā (优婆夷, pronounced “Yōupóyí”). Together, Upāsakas and Upāsikās represent the lay community in Buddhism, which plays a crucial role in supporting the monastic Sangha (community … Read more

In Buddhist cosmology, the Caturmahārājakayikas are known as the “Four Great Kings” (Sanskrit: Caturmahārāja; Pali: Cātummahārājā), who rule over the four cardinal directions of the world. They are powerful deities tasked with protecting the Dharma (the teachings of the Buddha) and safeguarding the world from harmful influences. These Four Kings reside in the lowest of … Read more

Avīci is a term from Buddhism that refers to the lowest and most intense level of the Buddhist hell. It is also known as the “uninterrupted hell” or “endless suffering.” In Buddhist belief, it is the place where the worst kinds of evil-doers are sent after death, where they experience unending and excruciating pain without … Read more

A Stūpa is a mound-like or hemispherical structure containing relics like śarīra, typically the remains of Buddhist monks or nuns) that is used as a place of meditation. In Sanskrit, “stupa” means heap. At its simplest, a stupa is a dirt burial mound faced with stone, a place of burial or a receptacle for religious … Read more