COMPLETE LIST OF BUDDHIST LITERATURE

FOR UPSC - CSE PRELIMS EXAM

Brought to you by:

The post-Mauryan period in India witnessed the emergence and development of various Buddhist
schools of thought and the composition of significant Buddhist literature. These texts played a
crucial role in disseminating Buddhist teachings and philosophy. Here are some of the most
prominent Buddhist scriptures from the post-Mauryan period:

1. Abhidhamma Pitaka: This is one of the three sections of the Pali Canon (Tipitaka), which is the
primary scripture of the Theravada school of Buddhism. The Abhidhamma Pitaka contains detailed
philosophical and psychological analyses of the nature of reality, consciousness, and mental
processes.

2. Mahavamsa: The Mahavamsa is a Pali chronicle that covers the history of Sri Lanka from ancient
times up to the 4th century CE. It provides an account of the introduction and spread of Buddhism
in Sri Lanka and the establishment of Buddhist monastic institutions.

3. Divyavadana: The Divyavadana, meaning "Divine Stories," is a Sanskrit anthology of Buddhist

legends and narratives. It contains a collection of stories about the previous lives and deeds of the
Buddha, as well as the virtuous actions of his disciples.

4. Lalitavistara Sutra: This Mahayana Buddhist sutra is a biographical account of the Buddha's life,
from his birth to his enlightenment. It emphasizes the spiritual and moral qualities of the Buddha
and his teachings.

5. Lotus Sutra: The Lotus Sutra (Saddharma Puṇḍarīka Sūtra) is one of the most important
Mahayana Buddhist scriptures. It emphasizes the universal potential for enlightenment and the
concept of skillful means (upaya) employed by the Buddha to guide beings towards liberation.

6. Avatamsaka Sutra: Also known as the Flower Garland Sutra, the Avatamsaka Sutra is a
voluminous Mahayana text that presents a comprehensive and profound description of reality. It
discusses interdependence, the interconnectedness of all phenomena, and the qualities of a
Buddha.

7. Ratnagotravibhāga (Jewel-Casket Treatise): This text, attributed to the Indian scholar Maitreya,
presents the Mahayana concept of the Tathagatagarbha (Buddha nature). It describes the inherent
potential for awakening present in all beings.

8. Milindapanha (Questions of King Milinda): Although not strictly a Buddhist scripture, the
Milindapanha is an important work of Buddhist literature. It is a dialogue between the Indo-Greek
king Menander I (Milinda) and the Buddhist sage Nagasena, addressing various philosophical and
ethical questions.

9. Samyutta Nikaya: This is a section of the Pali Canon (Tipitaka) and is a collection of discourses
(suttas) attributed to the Buddha. The Samyutta Nikaya explores various aspects of Buddhist
doctrine, including dependent origination, the Four Noble Truths, and meditation practices.

10. Visuddhimagga: Written by the Buddhist commentator Buddhaghosa, the Visuddhimagga (Path
of Purification) is a comprehensive treatise on Theravada Buddhist meditation and practice. It
provides detailed instructions on meditation techniques, stages of insight, and the path to
liberation.
11. Mahayanasutralankara (Ornament of Mahayana Sutras): This Sanskrit text, composed by the
Indian Buddhist scholar Maitreya, discusses the fundamental principles and doctrines of Mahayana
Buddhism. It elucidates concepts such as bodhisattva ideal, emptiness, and the six perfections
(paramitas).

12. Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra: This Mahayana sutra focuses on the lay practitioner Vimalakirti and
his profound understanding of Buddhism. It emphasizes the idea that spiritual attainment is not
limited to monastics but can be realized by anyone, regardless of their social or gender status.

13. Shurangama Sutra: The Shurangama Sutra is a significant Mahayana text that explores the
nature of consciousness and the obstacles to enlightenment. It contains detailed descriptions of
various meditative states and techniques, with an emphasis on overcoming delusions and
attachments.

14. Dharmashastras: These are legal and ethical treatises that provide guidelines for the conduct of
Buddhist monastics and lay followers. Examples include the Khandhaka section of the Vinaya
Pitaka, which outlines monastic rules and disciplinary codes.

15. Tattvasamgraha: Authored by the Indian Buddhist philosopher Shantarakshita, the

Tattvasamgraha (Compendium of Reality) presents a systematic exposition of the Yogachara (Mind
Only) school of Mahayana Buddhism. It examines the nature of consciousness, perception, and the
ultimate reality.

16. Jataka Tales: The Jataka Tales are a collection of stories that recount the previous lives of the
Buddha, illustrating moral lessons and virtues. These tales are popular in Buddhist literature and
reflect the Buddhist ideal of compassion and selflessness.

These texts represent a diverse range of Buddhist thought and practices during the post-Mauryan
period. They delve into various aspects of Buddhist philosophy, meditation, ethics, and cultural
expressions of Buddhism in different regions. Exploring these texts can provide a deeper
understanding of Buddhism's development and its impact on society.L

These texts, among others, significantly contributed to the growth and diversification of Buddhist
thought during the post-Mauryan period. Studying them can provide valuable insights into Buddhist
philosophy, history, and the cultural context of that era.
During the Gupta and post-Gupta periods in India (approximately 4th to 7th century CE), several
significant Buddhist texts were composed. Here is a list of important Buddhist texts from that
period:

1. Mahavastu: The Mahavastu is an extensive Sanskrit text that serves as a biographical account of
the Buddha's previous lives and his final birth as Siddhartha Gautama. It also contains stories about
the lives of his disciples and the early history of the Buddhist community.

2. Buddhacarita: Written by the poet Ashvaghosha, the Buddhacarita (Acts of the Buddha) is an
epic Sanskrit poem that narrates the life and achievements of the Buddha. It covers the Buddha's
birth, renunciation, enlightenment, and the spread of his teachings.

3. Lalitavistara Sutra: Although also mentioned earlier, it is worth noting that the Lalitavistara Sutra
gained significant popularity during the Gupta period. It is a Mahayana sutra that presents an
elaborate account of the Buddha's life and teachings.

4. Bodhisattvabhumi: Composed by the Indian Buddhist scholar Asanga, the Bodhisattvabhumi

(Stages of the Bodhisattva Path) is a comprehensive text that explains the stages, practices, and
qualities of a bodhisattva—the compassionate beings dedicated to attaining enlightenment for the
benefit of all sentient beings.

5. Ratnagotravibhāga (Jewel-Casket Treatise): Although mentioned earlier, the Ratnagotravibhāga

gained prominence during the Gupta period. It explores the concept of Tathagatagarbha (Buddha
nature) and elucidates how all beings possess the potential for enlightenment.

6. Samdhinirmocana Sutra: The Samdhinirmocana Sutra (Discourse Unlocking the Mysteries) is a

prominent Mahayana sutra that discusses various aspects of Buddhist doctrine, such as the nature
of reality, the nature of the mind, and the distinctions between conventional and ultimate truths.

7. Pramanavarttika: Composed by the philosopher Dharmakirti, the Pramanavarttika is a

comprehensive treatise on Buddhist epistemology and logic. It explores the nature of perception,
inference, and valid cognition according to Buddhist principles.

8. Shantideva's Bodhisattvacharyavatara: Although not strictly from the Gupta period, Shantideva's
Bodhisattvacharyavatara (Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life) gained significant popularity
during this time. It is a renowned Mahayana text that offers guidance on the bodhisattva path,
emphasizing the cultivation of compassion and wisdom.

9. Arya Sanghata Sutra: The Arya Sanghata Sutra is a Mahayana sutra that focuses on the interplay
between wisdom and compassion. It describes the unity of all Buddhist traditions and emphasizes
the importance of harmonious cooperation among different Buddhist communities.

10. Abhidharmakosha: Written by the philosopher Vasubandhu, the Abhidharmakosha (Treasury of

Abhidharma) is a comprehensive compendium of Buddhist Abhidharma teachings. It provides a
systematic analysis of consciousness, mental factors, and the nature of reality.

11. Bodhisattvapitaka: This text, also known as the "Basket of Bodhisattva Practices," is a
collection of scriptures that expound on the qualities, practices, and aspirations of bodhisattvas. It
provides guidance for those seeking to cultivate the path of the bodhisattva.
12. Vajracchedika Prajnaparamita Sutra: Also known as the Diamond Sutra, this Mahayana sutra is
highly regarded for its profound teachings on emptiness (shunyata) and the perfection of wisdom
(prajna). It emphasizes transcending conceptual limitations and realizing the ultimate nature of
reality.

13. Guhyasamaja Tantra: The Guhyasamaja Tantra is an influential tantra text in Vajrayana
Buddhism. It explores advanced meditation practices, deity yoga, and the union of bliss and
emptiness as a means to attain enlightenment.

14. Lankavatara Sutra: The Lankavatara Sutra is an important Mahayana text that presents the
teachings of the Buddha as he visits the mythical kingdom of Lanka. It delves into the nature of
consciousness, the illusory nature of the world, and the importance of direct insight (prajna) for
liberation.

15. Samadhiraja Sutra: This Mahayana sutra, also known as the "King of Samadhis Sutra," focuses
on the practice of meditation and the cultivation of deep states of concentration. It provides
guidance on attaining samadhi, which is crucial for realizing profound insight and spiritual
awakening.

16. Yogavacara's Manual: This text, attributed to the Indian Buddhist scholar and yogi Yogavacara,
provides detailed instructions on yogic practices and meditation techniques. It explores various
aspects of tantric Buddhism and the cultivation of advanced states of consciousness.

17. Advayasiddhi: The Advayasiddhi, composed by the Indian Buddhist philosopher Chandrakirti, is
a comprehensive treatise that explains the principles of Madhyamaka philosophy, which
emphasizes the emptiness of inherent existence.

18. Upadesa (Instruction) Series: The Upadesa series is a collection of texts composed by Indian
Buddhist masters, such as Nagarjuna, Aryadeva, and Asanga. These texts provide instructions on
various aspects of Buddhist practice, including meditation, ethics, and the understanding of
emptiness.

19. Dashabhumika Sutra: The Dashabhumika Sutra (Sutra on the Ten Stages) expounds on the ten
stages of the bodhisattva's path to enlightenment. It provides detailed descriptions of the qualities,
practices, and realizations attained at each stage.

20. Arya Samdhinirmocana Sutra: This Mahayana sutra, also known as the "Sutra Unraveling the
Intention of the Buddha," offers profound teachings on the nature of reality, consciousness, and the
path to awakening. It is highly regarded in both the Chinese and Tibetan Buddhist traditions.

These texts further showcase the rich and diverse range of Buddhist literature during the Gupta and
post-Gupta periods. They delve into various aspects of Buddhist philosophy, meditation practices,
tantric rituals, and the path to liberation. Exploring these texts can provide deeper insights into the
development of Buddhist thought and practice during this period.

These texts highlight the diversity and depth of Buddhist thought during the Gupta and post-Gupta
periods. They contribute to various aspects of Buddhist philosophy, meditation, ethics, and the
understanding of the path to liberation. Exploring these texts can provide valuable insights into the
intellectual and spiritual developments of that era.
The following are Buddhist Texts written in India during the Medieval Period:

1. Tibetan Buddhist Texts:

- Kangyur: The Kangyur is a collection of canonical texts in Tibetan Buddhism, comprising sutras
and tantras translated from Sanskrit into Tibetan.
- Tengyur: The Tengyur is a compilation of commentaries by Indian and Tibetan scholars on the
Kangyur texts.

2. Kadam School Texts:

- Lamrim Chenmo: Written by Je Tsongkhapa, this text presents a comprehensive guide to the
stages of the path to enlightenment, combining teachings from both sutra and tantra.

3. Indian Commentaries:
- Abhidharmakosha: Written by the philosopher Vasubandhu, the Abhidharmakosha (Treasury of
Abhidharma) is a comprehensive compendium of Buddhist Abhidharma teachings.

4. Pali Texts:
- Visuddhimagga (Path of Purification): Composed by the Buddhist scholar Buddhaghosa, this
comprehensive guide presents the practices and stages of meditation according to Theravada
Buddhism.

5. Bengali Buddhist Texts:

- Charyapada: This collection of mystical poems in the Bengali language, attributed to various
Buddhist siddhas, contains elements of tantric Buddhism and Vajrayana practices.

6. Tibetan-Indian Translations:
- The Hundred Thousand Songs of Milarepa: This collection of songs and teachings by the
Tibetan yogi Milarepa, translated from Indian sources, highlights his spiritual journey and teachings
on Mahamudra meditation.

7. Sanskrit-Indic Texts:
- Kavyadarsha: Written by Dandin, this Sanskrit text explores the principles and aesthetics of
poetic composition, including guidelines for language, meter, and imagery.

8. Jain-Buddhist Dialogues:
- Tattvartha Sutra: Composed by Acharya Umasvati, this Jain text examines the fundamental
principles of Jainism and discusses various philosophical concepts, including those shared with
Buddhism.

These texts represent the Buddhist literature produced in India after 1200 AD, covering a range of
subjects such as meditation, philosophy, poetry, and cultural exchanges with other traditions. They
contribute to the intellectual and spiritual heritage of Buddhism in India during this period.
Below is a list of important Buddhist literature in India, categorized according to the languages in
which they were composed:

Sanskrit

1. Abhidharmakosha: Written by Vasubandhu, this text is a comprehensive compendium of

Abhidharma teachings.

2. Mahayanasutralankara: Composed by Asanga, it presents an overview of Mahayana teachings

and provides a detailed analysis of the bodhisattva path.

3. Madhyamakavatara: Authored by Chandrakirti, this text explores the Middle Way (Madhyamaka)
philosophy, elucidating the concept of emptiness.

4. Ratnagotravibhaga (Jewel-Casket Treatise): This text explores the concept of Tathagatagarbha

(Buddha nature) and explains the potential for enlightenment inherent in all beings.

5. Karika-s of Nagarjuna: Nagarjuna's Karikas are seminal texts that systematically examine the
philosophy of the Middle Way (Madhyamaka) and expound on the concept of emptiness.

6. Lalitavistara Sutra: This text narrates the life and teachings of the Buddha, serving as an
important source of information on his early life and spiritual journey.

Prakrit

1. Theragatha and Therigatha: These collections of verses comprise the poetic utterances of the
early male and female Buddhist monastic practitioners, respectively.

2. Apadana: The Apadana is a compilation of stories about the lives and deeds of the Buddha and
his disciples, providing inspiration and moral lessons.

3. Milindapanha (Questions of Milinda): This text records the dialogues between King Menander I
and the Buddhist sage Nagasena, exploring various aspects of Buddhist philosophy and practice.

4. Pali Canon: While primarily written in Pali, which is a Prakrit language, the Pali Canon
encompasses a vast collection of scriptures, including the Sutta Pitaka (discourses of the Buddha),
Vinaya Pitaka (monastic rules), and Abhidhamma Pitaka (philosophical analysis).

Pali

1. Dhammapada: This collection of verses contains the teachings of the Buddha, presenting
practical guidance on ethical conduct, meditation, and wisdom.

2. Majjhima Nikaya: The Majjhima Nikaya is one of the five Nikayas in the Pali Canon, comprising
discourses of the Buddha that cover a wide range of topics and provide detailed teachings.

3. Samyutta Nikaya: Another section of the Pali Canon, the Samyutta Nikaya presents the
discourses of the Buddha grouped thematically, addressing various aspects of Buddhist doctrine.

4. Anguttara Nikaya: This collection contains discourses of the Buddha organized numerically,
offering teachings on specific topics and gradual training.

5. Jataka Tales: These stories recount the Buddha's past lives, highlighting moral and ethical
lessons through the tales of his various incarnations.

6. Visuddhimagga (Path of Purification): Written by Buddhaghosa, this comprehensive guide

presents the practices and stages of meditation according to Theravada Buddhism.

These texts represent a diverse range of Buddhist literature composed in Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Pali
languages in India, covering various aspects of Buddhist philosophy, meditation, ethics, and the life
of the Buddha and his disciples. They form a rich literary tradition that continues to inspire and
guide Buddhist practitioners.
 WORLD BUDDHIST LITERATURE

Post-1200 AD, Buddhist literature continued to flourish, particularly in various regions of Asia. Here
is an exhaustive list of Buddhist texts and literature written during this period:

1. Tibetan Buddhist Texts:

- Kangyur: The Kangyur is a collection of canonical texts in Tibetan Buddhism, comprising sutras
and tantras translated from Sanskrit into Tibetan.
- Tengyur: The Tengyur is a compilation of commentaries by Indian and Tibetan scholars on the
Kangyur texts.

2. Zen Buddhist Texts:

- Shobogenzo: Written by Zen master Dogen, the Shobogenzo is a collection of essays exploring
various aspects of Zen practice and philosophy.
- The Blue Cliff Record (Biyan Lu): Compiled by Zen master Yuanwu Keqin, this text consists of
dialogues, koans, and commentaries used in Zen training.

3. Pure Land Buddhist Texts:

- Infinite Life Sutra (Larger Sukhavativyuha Sutra): This Pure Land sutra describes the Pure Land
of Amitabha Buddha and explains the practices to be reborn there.
- Amitayurdhyana Sutra (Meditation on Amitayus Sutra): This sutra provides instructions on
meditation practices for attaining rebirth in the Pure Land of Amitabha Buddha.

4. Jodo Shinshu Texts:

- Tannisho: Written by the Shin Buddhist teacher Yuien-bo, the Tannisho is a collection of
dialogues and teachings that reflect the essence of Jodo Shinshu (Shin Buddhism).

5. Thai Forest Tradition Texts:

- Forest Dhamma: Written by the Thai Forest Tradition masters such as Ajahn Chah, this
collection of teachings emphasizes meditation, mindfulness, and living in the present moment.

6. Chinese Buddhist Texts:

- Platform Sutra (Liuzu Tanjing): This Zen text attributed to Huineng, the sixth patriarch of Chan
Buddhism, expounds on the nature of mind, meditation, and direct realization of enlightenment.
- The Awakening of Faith in the Mahayana (Dasheng Qixin Lun): A key text in East Asian
Mahayana Buddhism, it provides an overview of Mahayana teachings, emphasizing the concept of
One Mind.

7. Burmese Buddhist Texts:

- Visuddhimagga (Path of Purification): Composed by the Buddhist scholar Buddhaghosa, this
comprehensive guide presents the practices and stages of meditation according to Theravada
Buddhism.

8. Japanese Buddhist Texts:

- Record of Linji (Rinzai Roku): This collection of teachings attributed to the Zen master Linji
Yixuan presents his unique approach to Zen practice and emphasizes direct realization.

9. Sri Lankan Buddhist Texts:

- Pali Tipitaka: The Pali Canon, consisting of the Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka, and Abhidhamma
Pitaka, is the foundational text of Theravada Buddhism, containing the Buddha's discourses and
monastic rules.

10. Korean Buddhist Texts:

- Tripitaka Koreana: The Tripitaka Koreana is a complete set of Buddhist scriptures carved onto
woodblocks in Korea. It is regarded as one of the most accurate and comprehensive versions of the
Tripitaka.

These texts represent a diverse range of Buddhist literature produced after 1200 AD in various
Buddhist traditions and regions. They cover a wide range of teachings, practices, and philosophical
perspectives within Buddhism, enriching the understanding of the tradition and providing guidance
for practitioners.

Fin