SHIH-FU:

Sastras are written by patriarchs, and are of two varieties. In one type of sastra, a patriarch takes a few sutras which contain similar concepts and constructs a more encompassing theoretical system. The second type of sastra is a straight commentary on a particular sutra.

In principle, all sutras were spoken by Sakyamuni, but this need not be the case. For example, the Vimalakirti Sutra and Avatamsaka Sutra may have been spoken by incarnations of Buddhas or bodhisattvas. They are considered sutras because they do not deviate from the Dharma.

STUDENT:

What is your opinion of modern writings, such as Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind?

SHIH-FU:

Writings like this are good. If, years from now, these writings are still considered important and worthwhile, then they will be patriarchs' writings.

STUDENT:

Is it okay to chant the sutras silently?

SHIH-FU:

If you chant silently, you must mentally make the sound. If you do not, you will lose concentration, and perhaps fall into a trance state.

STUDENT:

Should we chant the sutra in its original language, either Sanskrit or Chinese? Or is it alright to chant in English?