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Significance of Central message

The central message in Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the key lesson from Shantideva's life regarding the nature of dharma practice. In contrast, the Theravada perspective focuses on the core teachings within its texts that highlight the significance of the Ten Perfections. Both traditions encapsulate vital teachings that guide practitioners in their spiritual journeys, reflecting their unique interpretations and practices within Buddhism.

Synonyms: Core message, Main idea, Principal theme, Central theme

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Central message'

Buddhism Books

The central message in Buddhism emphasizes the significance of dharma practice as illustrated by Shantideva's life, highlighting the importance of the Ten Perfections as core teachings for spiritual development.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas

(1) The core teaching or philosophy expressed within the text, emphasizing the importance of the Ten Perfections.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara

(1) The main lesson derived from the episode of Shantideva's life story, relating to the nature of dharma practice.[2]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.