Perfect Awakening Sutra Great Commentary (圓覺經大疏)

About 圓覺經大疏

Tang · by 宗密述

128,558 · about 429 min

The Great Commentary on the Sutra of Perfect Enlightenment is an authoritative annotation on the Sutra of Perfect Enlightenment composed by the eminent Tang dynasty monk Zongmi, completed during the mid-Tang period. As the fifth patriarch of the Huayan school, Zongmi integrated Huayan and Chan thought, systematically elucidating the profound principles of the Sutra of Perfect Enlightenment. The entire work unfolds across three levels: doctrine, practice, and realization of fruition, elaborating in detail on the wondrous mind of perfect enlightenment inherently possessed by all sentient beings, as well as how to attain Buddhahood through sudden and gradual cultivation. This commentary holds a significant position in Buddhist history, serving as a key text for studying the perfect and sudden teachings in Chinese Buddhism. It profoundly influenced the later development of the Chan and Huayan schools and has been revered as an authoritative standard by Buddhist practitioners throughout the ages.