New Translation of the Sounds and Meanings of the Avatamsaka Sutra (新譯大方廣佛華嚴經音義)

About 新譯大方廣佛華嚴經音義

Tang · by 慧菀述

38,830 · about 129 min

The Newly Translated Avatamsaka Sutra Phonetic Glossary, compiled by the eminent Tang dynasty monk Hui Wan, is a work that provides phonetic annotations and explanations for the newly translated eighty-fascicle Avatamsaka Sutra by Śikṣānanda. Produced during the flourishing period of Tang dynasty Buddhism, when translation activities were thriving, this work primarily focuses on annotating and interpreting difficult-to-read and hard-to-understand words and phrases in the sutra. It served as a practical tool for both contemporary and later generations in studying this important Mahayana Buddhist scripture. As a supplementary text to the foundational scripture of the Huayan school, this glossary not only aids in accurately understanding the profound teachings of the Avatamsaka Sutra but also preserves valuable materials on Middle Chinese phonology and exegesis. It holds significant importance in the fields of Buddhist philology and linguistic studies.