The Tendai school of Buddhism, also known as Japanese Tiantai, is a synthesis of Buddhist teachings that originated in China and was brought to Japan in the 9th century by the monk Saicho. This school places a strong emphasis on the Lotus Sutra, but also draws from other important Buddhist texts. In this answer, we will explore the key texts of Tendai and their significance within the tradition.

The primary text of Tendai is the Lotus Sutra, also known as the Saddharma Pundarika Sutra. This sutra is considered to be the most important text in Tendai, as it is believed to contain the ultimate teachings of the Buddha. The Lotus Sutra emphasizes the concept of "One Vehicle," which teaches that all beings have the potential to attain enlightenment and that there are not multiple paths to achieve it. This concept is central to Tendai teachings and is considered to be the key to understanding the true nature of reality.

Another important text in Tendai is the Mahaprajnaparamita Sutra, also known as the Great Perfection of Wisdom Sutra. This text is a collection of teachings on the concept of emptiness, which is a central tenet of Tendai. Emptiness refers to the idea that all phenomena are empty of inherent existence, and understanding this concept is crucial to achieving enlightenment.

The Vimalakirti Sutra is also considered to be a key text in Tendai. This sutra tells the story of a lay practitioner named Vimalakirti who is said to have achieved enlightenment while living in the world. This text emphasizes the importance of practicing Buddhism in everyday life and teaches that enlightenment is not limited to monks and nuns, but can be attained by anyone.

The Tendai school also places a strong emphasis on the teachings of the Chinese Tiantai school, particularly the Lotus Sutra-based teachings of Zhiyi. Zhiyi's works, such as the Mohe Zhiguan (Great Calming and Contemplation) and the Fahua Xuanyi (Profound Meaning of the Lotus Sutra), are considered to be essential texts in Tendai. These texts provide a framework for understanding the Lotus Sutra and its teachings, and are studied and practiced by Tendai practitioners.

In addition to these key texts, Tendai also draws from other important Buddhist texts such as the Avatamsaka Sutra, the Vajrasamadhi Sutra, and the Surangama Sutra. These texts provide further insight into the teachings of the Buddha and help to deepen the understanding of Tendai practitioners.

In conclusion, the key texts of Tendai are the Lotus Sutra, the Mahaprajnaparamita Sutra, the Vimalakirti Sutra, and the works of Zhiyi. These texts are considered essential to understanding and practicing Tendai teachings, and are studied and