Significance of Four aspects
The Four aspects in Mahayana teachings encompass two main elements. Firstly, they include the four elements that encourage readers to engage with a text through trust and curiosity, aiding in their quest for understanding. Secondly, these aspects break down the teachings into manageable parts within each turning, enhancing comprehension of the Dharma. Together, these components support a deeper exploration and learning of the core principles in Mahayana Buddhism.
Synonyms: Four features, Four components, Four elements, Four parts
In Dutch: Vier aspecten; In Finnish: Neljä näkökohtaa; In Spanish: Cuatro aspectos
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Four aspects'
The Four aspects in Buddhism encompass elements that foster trust and curiosity toward teachings, alongside specific components that simplify understanding, thus enhancing engagement with the Dharma's deeper meanings.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The specific components within each turning that break down the teachings into digestible parts for better understanding of the Dharma.[1]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The four elements that enable the reader to approach a treatise with trust and inquisitiveness, facilitating a search for meaning.[2]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Concepts of production, dwelling, change, and extinction, which pertain to various processes including thoughts, objects, and lifespans.[3]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The four critical areas a Bodhisattva-mahasattva must discern and elucidate, including self-rightness, correction of others, adherence to teachings, and understanding causal relationships.[4]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The four aspects refer to understanding the five aggregates as being woeful, arising from craving, ceasing with Nibbana, and the path leading to cessation, which represent comprehensive knowledge.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Four aspects'
The "Four aspects" in Hinduism encompass the dimensions of Vyahriti in meditation and the four characteristics of Brahman, highlighting the complexity of the inner controller within spiritual practice and understanding.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The four different states of the Lord as mentioned in the text: Vishva, Taijasa, Prajna, and Turiya.[6] (2) Refers to the four distinct characteristics or parts of Brahman, which are implied in the notion of the inner controller.[7]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The multiple dimensions of each Vyahriti that must be considered during meditation to gain thorough comprehension.[8]