Dharma In Mahāyāna Buddhism

In Mahāyāna Buddhism, the concept of Dharma is central to its teachings, but it is understood

in a broader and more expansive way than in some other Buddhist traditions. The term

"Dharma" in Mahayana Buddhism encompasses several key aspects:

Universal Truth: In Mahāyāna Buddhism, Dharma refers to the universal truths or principles

that underlie the nature of reality. These truths are not limited to the teachings of the historical

Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, but extend to the teachings of all Buddhas throughout time and

space. Mahāyāna Buddhists believe in the existence of countless Buddhas who have attained

enlightenment and taught the Dharma to liberate sentient beings.

Bodhisattva Ideal: One of the defining features of Mahāyāna Buddhism is the emphasis on

the Bodhisattva path. Bodhisattvas are beings who have made a vow to attain Buddhahood not

only for their own liberation but for the benefit of all sentient beings. The concept of Dharma

in Mahāyāna includes the teachings and practices that Bodhisattvas follow to fulfill their

compassionate mission.

Emptiness (Śūnyatā): The Mahāyāna understanding of Dharma also includes the profound

concept of emptiness (śūnyatā). Emptiness is the idea that all phenomena lack inherent,

independent existence. Instead, everything is interdependent and interconnected. The

understanding of emptiness is crucial in Mahāyāna, as it helps practitioners transcend dualistic

thinking and develop a deeper insight into the nature of reality.

Skillful Means (Upāya): Mahāyāna teachings emphasize the skillful means employed by

Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to lead sentient beings to enlightenment. This concept is also

considered part of the Dharma. It acknowledges that different individuals have different needs

and capacities, so various teaching methods and approaches may be used to help them on their

spiritual journey.
Compassion (Karunā): Compassion is a fundamental aspect of the Mahāyāna Dharma.

Bodhisattvas cultivate boundless compassion for all sentient beings and work tirelessly to

alleviate their suffering. The teachings of Mahāyāna stress the importance of compassion as a

driving force behind one's practice and actions.

Perfection of Wisdom (Prajñāpāramitā): The Mahāyāna tradition places great importance

on the Prajñāpāramitā sutras, which expound the wisdom that leads to enlightenment. These

texts delve deeply into the understanding of emptiness and form a crucial part of the Mahāyāna

Dharma.

Dharma Realization: In Mahāyāna Buddhism, the ultimate goal is to realize one's true nature

and attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings. This realization is seen as the

fulfillment of the Dharma.

In summary, Mahāyāna Buddhism's concept of Dharma extends beyond the teachings of the

historical Buddha and encompasses universal truths, the Bodhisattva ideal, emptiness, skillful

means, compassion, wisdom, and the ultimate goal of Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient

beings. It emphasizes the inclusive and altruistic nature of the path to enlightenment.