avadana

[uh-vuh-dah-nuh]

avadana Definition

a type of Buddhist literature consisting of stories and anecdotes used to illustrate moral principles.

Using avadana: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "avadana" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The avadanas are often used to teach Buddhist principles.

  • Example

    The Jataka tales are a collection of avadanas.

Phrases with avadana

  • Mahavastu Avadana

    a Buddhist text that tells the story of the Buddha's previous lives

    Example

    The Mahavastu Avadana is an important text in Buddhist literature.

  • Divyavadana

    a collection of Buddhist stories and legends

    Example

    The Divyavadana is a popular collection of Buddhist literature.

  • Jatakamala

    a collection of avadanas that tell the stories of the Buddha's previous lives

    Example

    The Jatakamala is a well-known collection of Buddhist literature.

Origins of avadana

from Sanskrit 'avadāna', meaning 'narrative'

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Summary: avadana in Brief

'Avadana' [uh-vuh-dah-nuh] is a type of Buddhist literature consisting of stories and anecdotes used to illustrate moral principles. The avadanas are often used to teach Buddhist principles, and collections like the Jataka tales and Divyavadana are popular examples. The Mahavastu Avadana is an important text in Buddhist literature that tells the story of the Buddha's previous lives.