Sutra

Definition

A sutra (Sanskrit for “thread”) is a written work in the belief systems of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism which is understood to accurately preserve important teachings of the respective faiths and guide an adherent on the path from ignorance and entrapment in the endless cycle of rebirth and death (samsara) toward spiritual liberation.

More about: Sutra

Timeline

  • c. 100 BCE
    Buddhist sutras began to be written down in Pali.
  • c. 50 BCE - c. 600 CE
    The Perfection of Wisdom texts are written by Mahayana Buddhist sages in India; expounding upon the central vision of the Buddha.
  • 148 CE
    An Shigao is the first Buddhist translator mentioned in Chinese sources who established a translation centre in the Chinese imperial capital, Luoyang.
  • c. 200 CE
    The Buddhist Lotus Sutra is written down in Pali language.
  • c. 200 CE - c. 400 CE
    The Buddhist Nirvana Sutra is written down in Pali language.
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