Buddha Nature: 3 definitions

Introduction:

Buddha Nature means something in Buddhism, Pali. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Buddhism

General definition (in Buddhism)

[«previous next»] — Buddha Nature in Buddhism glossary
Source: Buddhist Door: GlossaryBuddha Nature i.e. the potential for attaining Buddhahood, or enlightenment. In the absolute sense, it is unproduced and immortal. Every sentient being possesses the Buddha Nature, but it requires to be cultivated in order to be revealed.Source: WikiPedia: Buddhism

Buddha nature is a doctrine important for many schools of Mahayana Buddhism. The Buddha Nature or Buddha Principle (Buddha dhatu) is taught to be a truly real, but internally hidden immortal potency or element within the purest depths of the mind, present in all sentient beings, for awakening and becoming a Buddha. There are conflicting interpretations of the idea in Mahayana thought. The idea may be traced to Abhidharmic thought, and ultimately to statements of the Buddha in the Nikayas. Other terms for the Buddha nature are Tathagatagarbha and Sugatagarbha.

Source: Buddhism Tourism: Glossary of Buddhist Terms

Mahayana idea that all sentient beings have within them pure nature similar to that of the Buddhas. This is one idea that separates Mahayana from Hinayana form of Buddhism.

See also (Relevant definitions)

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