The Diamond That Cuts Through Illusion Wisdom of the Vajracchedika Prajnaparamita: Core Sutra Texts, Multiple Translations, and Classical Commentaries Kindle Edition

The Vajracchedikā Prajñāpāramitā Sūtra, or Diamond Sutra, is a cornerstone of Mahayana Buddhism, celebrated for its profound wisdom that, like a diamond, cuts through all delusion. For centuries, its teachings on emptiness (śūnyatā) and non-attachment have inspired practitioners worldwide. This volume offers a comprehensive exploration by presenting several pivotal Chinese translations of the Sutra alongside complete English renderings of two of its most influential Indian commentaries by the masters Asaṅga and Vasubandhu.The Diamond Sutra radically deconstructs our conventional understanding of reality, asserting that all phenomena, including the self, lack inherent existence. This liberating insight, far from being nihilistic, fosters boundless compassion—the hallmark of the Bodhisattva.The Sutra's journey from India to East Asia saw multiple Chinese translations, each with unique nuances. This collection includes:Kumārajīva's (T0235, c. 401 CE): The most beloved and standard translation, known for its lucidity.Bodhiruci's (T0236a, c. 509 CE): An early and significant version from the Northern Wei.Paramārtha's (T0236b, c. 562 CE): Reflecting a deep Yogācāra understanding.Xuanzang's (T0237, c. 648-663 CE & T07N0220, c. 660-663 CE): Meticulous translations, one standalone and one as part of the larger Mahāprajñāpāramitā Sūtra.Yijing's (T0239, c. 703 CE): A valuable later Tang dynasty translation.The profound nature of the Sutra invited scholarly elucidation. We include:Asaṅga's Vajracchedikāprajñāpāramitā-śāstra (T25N1510): A systematic Yogācāra commentary, translated into Chinese by Dharmagupta (c. 610 CE).Vasubandhu's Vajracchedikāprajñāpāramitā-sūtra-śāstra (T25N1511): A detailed verse-by-verse exegesis, translated into Chinese by Bodhiruci (c. 509 CE).The Diamond Sutra likely originated in India between the 1st-4th centuries CE, with these commentaries by Asaṅga (c. 4th C.) and Vasubandhu (c. 4th-5th C.) following, representing a mature phase of Mahayana thought.Our aim is to provide clear, contemporary English translations, making these ancient streams of wisdom accessible. By presenting the Sutra through multiple lenses—its various translations and its key Indian interpretations—we hope to offer readers a richer, more nuanced understanding. May this collection serve as a valuable companion, illuminating the path with the diamond light of wisdom and compassion. Read more