Tenets Cittamatra (definite and interpretable sutras)

Question 1

Who started the devisions into interpretive and definite teachings?

Answer 1

Cittamatra

Question 2

What is the view of Cittamatra on interpretive and definitive teachings?

Answer 2

Definite teaching: Buddhas explicit teachings: can be accepted on face value!
Interpretable teachings: Not to be taken on face value!

Example:
First turning of the wheel of Dharma: nothing exists truly
Second turning: the 4 noble truth exist truly
(That is a permanent phenomena other than ultimate reality, which also have to be taken as truly.)
==» That is not accepted by Cittamatra

Question 3

What is the view of Prasangika on interpretive and definitive teachings?

Answer 3

Prasangika Madhyamaka:
The understanding happens on the level of subject matter:

Definitive teachings: Teachings of the ultimate truth (final)

Interpretable teachings: Teachings which are opposed to final = conventional truth

Question 4

What is the view of Svatantrika Madhyamka on interpretive and definitive teachings?

Answer 4

Svatantrika go half and half:
Definitive Sutra (teaching)
1. Face value
AND!
2. Subject matter should be ultimate truth
==» f.ex.: Heart Sutra
Interpretable Sutra (teaching) is not to be taken on face value
ALSO:
Conventional truth is the subject matter
==> f.ex.:100.000 verses = talks about ultimate truth but can not be taken on face value

Question 5

What is the view of Vaibhasika and Sautantrika on interpretive and definitive teachings?

Answer 5

Vaibhasika and Sautantrika do not accept interpretative teachings. all has to be taken direct!