Question about mahayana sutras (Buddhism)...please read. TY?

Question

I am trying to understand exactly what Sutras are. I know they are somewhat the equivelant of the Bible for Buddhist followers. Correct?

Exactly how are you suppose to follow them?

Can some explain them to me in relation to the Bible..... are they just written text of the practice of Buddhism?

Answer 1

They arent the same as the bible. They aren't meant to be accepted as fact. They are pointers to enlightenment. Only that.

They are many things. Some are poems. Some are admonitions to monks, some are profound pronouncements meant to aid self-realization.

Some are simple vows.

Buddhism isn't a faith based religion like western religions, try not to get caught in the same mindset.

Even Gautama Buddha was careful to tell people not to follow what he said on faith - but to find their own truth. Buddhism is a practice whereby you find your own truth, not simply accept it from another.

Our line will chant them as a form of meditation.

Answer 2

to understand the sutras, i'll recommend you to learn under a buddhist master/ teacher.
buddhism depends more on understanding than faith.
to interpret on our own may not be appropriate, as sutras usually empahasized on emptiness, wisdom & compassion, as well as guiding you thru' meditation.

***
you need to adhere to the 5 precepts and "take refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha" (the "triple gem" as it is called). These are typically things you do with the assistance of a Buddhist monk or nun in a monastery or in a monastic setting but mostly this is an undertaking or a commitment you make with yourself to take a certain outlook on life.

Answer 3

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sutra

In Buddhism, the term "sutra" refers generally to canonical scriptures that are regarded as records of the oral teachings of Gautama Buddha.

THey can also be used as meditation aids.

Answer 4

I'll keep my reply short in support and agreement to the two replies before mine.

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