True emptiness and wonderful existence (the doctrine of the Middle Way)

Buddhist sutras speak of true emptiness and wonderful existence, the doctrine of the Middle Way. They avoid the extreme doctrines of existence and non-existence, being and non-being. They begin with "Thus I have heard" to distinguish them from non-Buddhist texts. - Shurangama Sutra, Testimony of Faith

Before the Buddha passed onto Paranirvana, Ananda was told by him to preface his lectures based on what the Buddha said with "Thus I have heard."

In this way, they are distinguished from non-Buddhist texts which discuss existence and non-existence.

Shurangama Sutra

The Shurangama Sutra chronicles the path of Enlightenment which the Buddha's cousin Ananda tread.

In it too is mentioned the Bodhisattva of Buddha Recitation, Mahasthamaprapta.

He represents the power of spiritual wisdom.

In Jodo Shinshu tradition, he appears in the trinity consisting of Amitabha, Avalokiteshvara, and Mahasthamaprapta.