Dharmakula, Dharma-kula: 1 definition
Introduction:
Dharmakula 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
Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism)
Source: Wisdom Library: Maha Prajnaparamita SastraDharmakula (धर्मकुल) refers to the “family of the Dharma”, according to Mahāprajñāpāramitāśāstra (chapter 22, v2).—Accordingly, “The Bodhisattva takes birth into a Kṣatriya family or a Brāhmaṇa family.—Brāhmaṇa families have wisdom; Kṣatriya families have power. The Brāhmaṇa favors the future life; the Kṣatriya favors the present life: both families are useful in the world; this is why the Bodhisattva is born among them. There is also the worthy family of the Dharma (dharmakula), that of the non-regressing adepts (avaivartika). Taking birth in these families is the excellence of the family”.
Mahayana (महायान, mahāyāna) is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sūtras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajñāpāramitā sūtras.
See also (Relevant definitions)
Partial matches: Dharma, Tarma, Kula.
Full-text: Kula, Ihaloka, Paraloka, Brahmanakula, Kshatriyakula.
Relevant text
Search found 1 books and stories containing Dharmakula, Dharma-kula; (plurals include: Dharmakulas, kulas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:
Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra (by Gelongma Karma Migme Chödrön)
Bhūmi 9: the ground of good wisdom (sādhumatī) < [Chapter XX - (2nd series): Setting out on the Mahāyāna]