Transcending the World

A Bodhisattva trains through the six stages of the Bodhisattva Way, accumulating merit and developing wisdom, because he is resolved to attain perfect enlightenment and enlighten others. Attaining perfect enlightenment means realizing the truth of dharmas and transcending the world. However, out of lovingkindness and compassion for all sentient beings, a Bodhisattva vows never to abandon them. Therefore, transcending the world does not mean departing or detaching from the world. A Bodhisattva takes Bodhisattva actions throughout the Bodhisattva Way to benefit sentient beings and continues to do so even after attainment of Buddhahood.

Based on texts in the Chinese Buddhist Canon, this book, Rulu's sixth, presents the English translations of six sutras. Sutra 1 is an English translation of chapter 38 of text 279 (T10n0279), one of the three Chinese versions of the Mahavaipulya Sutra of Buddha Adornment (Buddhavatamsaka-mahavaipulya-sutra). Sutras 2-5 have never before been translated into English. They provide a glimpse into the inconceivable Buddha Ground. Sutra 6 is the Mahavaipulya Sutra of Perfect Enlightenment. It provides teachings on immediate enlightenment and on training in meditation for gradual enlightenment. This book will benefit readers at all levels and can serve as a basis for scholarly research.