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Which Mahayana schools developed in China from the Lotus Sutra and other major scriptures?
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Mahayana
Guanyin and attendant bodhisattvas, detail of a painted cave mural, Kansu province, China, early 8th century.
In China, several indigenous Mahayana schools emerged that were based directly on major Buddhist scriptures rather than solely on Indian philosophical systems. These traditions became the foundation of East Asian Buddhism.1
The primary schools developed from these scriptures include:
- Tiantai: Named after the mountain where its systematic interpretation was first propounded, this school is centered on the Lotus Sutra, as well as the Mahaparinirvana and Mahaprajnaparamita sutras. It emphasizes the "one vehicle" (buddhayana) doctrine, teaching that all beings can attain Buddhahood.2
- Huayan: Based on the Avatamsaka-sutra, this school focuses on the theory of dharma-dhatu (totality), which posits that all phenomena are interdependent and mutually identical, reflecting the perfect enlightenment of the Buddha Vairochana.3
- Chan: Known for its emphasis on meditation (chan), this school draws from various Mahayana texts, including the Lankavatara-sutra.14
- Pure Land: This tradition is rooted in the Pure Land Sutra and emphasizes devotion as a path to salvation.14