Definitions for "Lotus Sutra"
(Jap. Hokkeko; Skt. Saddharma-pundirika-sutra) "The Sutra of the Lotus Flower of the Wonderful Law," Shakyamuni's highest teaching, expounded in the last 8 years of his life. The translation known in China and Japan is Myoho-renge-kyo translated by Kumarajiva.
A scripture of major importance to various schools within the Mahayana tradition. It describes the virtues of the Bodhisattva, and emphasises that all sentient beings posses Buddha-nature and can attain Enlightenment (Nirvana).
An important sutra in Mahayana Buddhism, compiled in phases up to about 100 CE. It teaches that the forms taken by Buddhist doctrine are provisional only and are provided in accordance with the abilities of its recipients.