Question

Which of the following statements describes the Mahayana position on scripture?

1) Mahayana considers scripture as the ultimate authority and follows it strictly.
2) Mahayana believes that scripture is important but not the only source of guidance.
3) Mahayana rejects the authority of scripture and relies solely on personal experience.
4) Mahayana views scripture as a historical document with no relevance in modern times.

Answer 1

Mahayana Buddhism values scripture but also includes personal experience and teachings of the bodhisattvas, with an emphasis on compassion and wisdom.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that describes the Mahayana position on scripture is that Mahayana Buddhism believes that scripture is important but not the sole source of guidance. This corresponds to option 2: Mahayana considers scripture as important but acknowledges other sources of spiritual authority and insight, such as personal experience and the words of later teachers or bodhisattvas. The tradition allows for the possibility of new teachings to be received and valued alongside the ancient texts, provided they are in line with the fundamental principles of compassion and wisdom that underpin Mahayana thought.