Category: Ancient India

The Vimalakirti Nirdesa – Dialogue between the Buddha and Vimalakirti

The Vimalakirti Nirdesa – Dialogue between the Buddha and Vimalakirti

The Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra is known for its rich and complex teachings on Buddhist doctrine, ethics, and practice. The text is structured as a dialogue between the Buddha and Vimalakirti, a lay practitioner who is renowned for his wisdom and compassion. Through their conversations, the Buddha and Vimalakirti explore a wide range of Buddhist teachings and practices, and they provide deep insights into the nature of reality and the path to liberation.…

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The Lalitavistara – Life of the Buddha before his enlightenment

The Lalitavistara – Life of the Buddha before his enlightenment

The Lalitavistara is a Buddhist text that recounts the life of the Buddha before his enlightenment. The text is considered one of the most important and influential texts in Buddhist literature, and it has had a significant impact on the development of Buddhist art, iconography, and philosophy.…

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Vajracchedika Prajnaparamita Sutra (The Diamond )

The Diamond Sutra, also known as the Vajracchedika Prajnaparamita Sutra, is one of the most important and influential Mahayana Buddhist texts. It is part of the larger Prajnaparamita or Perfection of Wisdom literature, which expounds on the concept of prajna or wisdom.…

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Kathasaritsagara – Famous Indian collection of stories

Kathasaritsagara – Famous Indian collection of stories

The Kathasaritsagara is a famous Indian collection of stories that have been passed down through generations. Its name roughly translates to “the ocean of the streams of stories” and it is believed to have been written in Sanskrit between the 11th and 12th centuries. This collection of stories has been a significant influence on Indian culture and literature for centuries and continues to be widely read today.…

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Hitopadesha – Ancient collections of Animal Fables

Hitopadesha is another ancient collection of animal fables that originated in India. The collection is believed to have been written in the 12th century AD, and is based on the Panchatantra, with some additional stories and modifications. The name “Hitopadesha” means “good advice” in Sanskrit, and the collection is considered to be a guide to living a virtuous and fulfilling life.…

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The Jataka Tales

The Jataka Tales

The Jataka Tales are a collection of Buddhist stories that recount the previous lives of the Buddha. These tales are known for their didactic nature and are often used to teach moral values to children. The Jataka Tales are believed to have been compiled around 300 BCE and were written in Pali, the language of the Buddhist scriptures. They have been passed down through oral tradition and are still widely read and appreciated today.…

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Panchatantra Fables – The Timeless Classics

Panchatantra Fables – The Timeless Classics

Panchatantra is an ancient collection of interrelated animal fables that were originally written in Sanskrit. The collection has been translated into many different languages and is considered one of the most popular and influential works of literature in India and around the world. The stories contained in the Panchatantra have been adapted and retold in many different forms, including books, films, television shows, and even video games.…

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