The Diamond Sutra is an ancient Mahayana Buddhist text that is considered one of the most important and influential scriptures within Mahayana Buddhism. This sutra, called Vajracchedikā Prajñāpāramitā Sūtra in Sanskrit, stands out for its deep exploration of the nature of reality, emptiness, and ultimate truth.
The Diamond Sutra and the Prajñāpāramitā
The Sutra opens with the Buddha Shakyamuni giving teachings to his disciples on Vulture Peak. The main goal of the sutra is to reveal the nature of ultimate reality (Prajñāpāramitā), which goes beyond dualistic concepts of existence and non-existence.
Dialogues Between the Buddha and Subhuti
One of the most remarkable features of the Diamond Sutra is its rhetorical structure. The text unfolds through a series of dialogues between the Buddha and his disciples, especially the venerable Subhuti. In these exchanges, the Buddha challenges the disciples’ conventional views on reality and guides them toward a deeper understanding of emptiness.
Emptiness in the Diamond Sutra
“Emptiness” (śūnyatā in Sanskrit) is a central concept in Mahayana Buddhism, emphasizing the lack of inherent substance in all phenomena. Through the Sutra, it is taught that all phenomena are empty of self-nature—meaning they have no inherent or independent existence.
Zen Practice
The Diamond Sutra also emphasizes the importance of practice with the right mental attitude and deep understanding as a path to enlightenment. It teaches that true insight into emptiness leads to the overcoming of suffering and awakening.
The Dharma: Ultimate Reality
In summary, the Diamond Sutra is a profound and complex text that explores themes such as emptiness, ultimate reality, and enlightenment, offering a unique perspective on the nature of reality from the Mahayana Buddhist view.
Dharma Workshop: The Diamond Sutra
Date: Sunday, May 4
Time: 17:00 to 19:00
Location: Zen Kannon meditation center. Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 665, Barcelona (ground floor)
Led by: Lluís Nansen Salas
Price: €10 for members / €20 for non-members
More info & reservations: Please fill out the form below.
This workshop is part of the Dharma Zen Course.