Toh 1156Untitled

Exposition of Toh 1156 — From the Abhidharma Piṭaka (Tengyur)

Context

The scripture Toh 1156 in the Tengyur (Abhidharma Piṭaka) of the Northern Transmitted Tibetan Mahayana tradition is a profound treatise, reflecting the philosophical foundation of Northern Mahayana Buddhism. The Abhidharma Piṭaka is a collection of commentaries and explanations based on the principal scriptures, compiled after the time of the Buddha by eminent scholars and root teachers.

In the context of the Mahayana, especially the Northern Tibetan tradition, these treatises play an extremely important role. They not only explain the profound meaning of the Dharma gates, but also guide monastics and lay practitioners in practicing the bodhisattva path, the path of awakening for the benefit of boundless sentient beings. These treatises are regarded as the “eyes” that help beings see clearly the deep meaning of the Buddha Dharma.

Toh 1156 lies within the system of texts translated from Sanskrit into Tibetan between the 8th and 13th centuries, the golden age of Buddhism in the Himalayan region. This was the period when great masters from Nālandā, Otantapuri, and other centers of Buddhist learning transmitted, compiled, and systematized scriptures and treatises.

Main Content

Although the specific title has not been fully provided, Toh 1156, as part of the Abhidharma Piṭaka, may focus on one of the key themes of the Mahayana:

First, it may explain bodhisattva conduct (Bodhisattva-caryā), the path of practice of bodhisattvas, those who have generated bodhicitta, that is, the mind directed toward awakening for the benefit of all sentient beings. This is the core of the Mahayana, fundamentally different from individual liberation.

Second, the scripture may address the Mind of Compassion (Karuṇā) and Loving-Kindness (Maitrī), two foundational elements in Mahayana practice. Vast loving-kindness and compassion, without limit, are not directed only toward loved ones but spread to all sentient beings, including enemies.