The full name
of The Diamond Sutra in the original Sanskrit
is Vajracchedikā-prajñāpāramitā sūtra. In Sanskrit,
the word "vajra" means "sharpness, destroyer of
all", which is why in English the diamond and
thunderbolt are often used to describe it. "Prajñā"
refers to "wisdom". Therefore, this sutra is a
canon by which ignorance can be eradicated and
wisdom achieved. Since The Diamond Sutra belongs
to the Prajñā scriptures of Mahāyāna Buddhism,
transcribing its text is also considered a means
of achieving merit and practice beyond reading,
reciting, and accepting its contents. Consequently,
some calligraphers have participated in the writing
of sutras. A brushed example in this exhibit is
written by famous calligrapher Chou Wen-chai of
the Ming dynasty. This sutra, with its unique
feature, is treasured in its own right.