『대승열반경』의 보살사상

Abstract

In this paper, I have searched the philosophy of bodhisattva appeared in Mahāparinirvāṇa-Sūtra. This sutra asserts that when sentient beings see their intrinsic Buddha-nature and there are awakening in their minds. In this canon, therefore, attaining Buddha-nature has been upheld as the most important value in connection with bodhisattva's practice and cultivation. This sutra defines Bodhisattva as a personified figure who stands oppose to icchantika. I think icchantika was set up as an expedient method for the purpose of teaching people in the mundane world. Because this sutra, in the latter part, asserts that even icchantika can gain enlightenment since icchantika possesses Buddha-nature. We were born as human beings with our inherited Buddha-nature. It is, however, a reality that there are so many icchantikas who have cut off their roots of goodness nowadays. It is thus thought that Mahāparinirvāṇa-Sūtra is sending us a strong message to carry on a life with Bodhisattva's mind instead of becoming an icchantika.