Sutra etymology

Etymology

The word "sutra" is derived from the Sanskrit word "sūtra", which means "thread" or "string."

Meaning

A sutra is a sacred text that contains the teachings of a particular religion or philosophy, typically presented in a concise and aphoristic style. Sutras are often composed of short verses or stanzas that convey profound truths or principles.

Origin

The concept of sutras originated in ancient India, where they were first used in the Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

  • Hinduism: Sutras were developed by ancient Indian scholars to preserve the teachings of the Vedas, the holy scriptures of Hinduism. The most famous Hindu sutras include the Brahma Sutras, which expound on the nature of Brahman (the ultimate reality).

  • Buddhism: Sutras play a central role in Buddhism, where they are considered the recorded words of the Buddha. The most widely known Buddhist sutras include the Dhammapada, the Majjhima Nikaya, and the Lotus Sutra. These texts contain the essential teachings of Buddhism, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

Over time, the concept of sutras spread to other religions and philosophies, including Jainism, Sikhism, and Taoism. Sutras continue to play an important role in these traditions as authoritative texts that guide practitioners on their spiritual paths.

Sutra relate terms

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  • souvlaki

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    Etymology Latin primitivus Primus first ivus having the character of Mea

  • hamartia

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