Friday, April 5, 2019
Biography of Vasubandhu:
Vasubandhu (circa 4th to 5th century CE) was an influential Buddhist monk, philosopher, and scholar who lived in ancient India. He is recognized for his significant contributions to Buddhist philosophy and is particularly associated with the Yogacara school of thought.
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| Vasubandhu |
Early Life of Vasubandhu:
1. Birth: Vasubandhu was born in Puruṣapura (present-day Peshawar in Pakistan) in the Gupta Empire, possibly in the 4th century CE.
2. Family Background: He came from a Brahmin family known for its scholarly pursuits.
Vasubandhu's Early Career and Conversion to Buddhism:
1. Initial Studies: Vasubandhu initially studied traditional Indian philosophies, including the Samkhya and Nyaya schools.
2. Conversion: Influenced by the teachings of his half-brother Asanga, Vasubandhu converted to Buddhism. Asanga was a key figure in the Yogacara school.
Contributions to Buddhist Philosophy:
1. Yogacara School: Vasubandhu became a prominent figure in the Yogacara, or Yoga Chara, school of Mahayana Buddhism. This school emphasizes the importance of mental phenomena and consciousness.
2. Abhidharma Works: Vasubandhu wrote several important works on Buddhist philosophy, including the "Abhidharmakosa" ("Treasury of Abhidharma"), a comprehensive compendium of Abhidharma teachings.
Major Works of Vasubandhu:
1. "Abhidharmakosa": This work is one of Vasubandhu's most renowned writings, providing a systematic presentation of Buddhist doctrines, including the nature of reality, consciousness, and the path to enlightenment.
2. "Vimsatika" and "Trimsika": Vasubandhu wrote two famous philosophical verses, "Vimsatika" (Twenty Verses) and "Trimsika" (Thirty Verses), which are concise summaries of Yogacara doctrines.
Controversies:
1. Sautrantika vs. Yogacara: Vasubandhu initially belonged to the Sautrantika school but later converted to the Yogacara school, leading to debates and controversies within Buddhist circles.
Later Life:
1. Monastic Life: Vasubandhu spent much of his life in monastic practice, contributing to both the theoretical and practical aspects of Buddhism.
2. Teacher: He played a key role as a teacher, sharing his knowledge with other monks and practitioners.
Death of Vasubandhu:
The exact details of Vasubandhu's death are not well-documented, and historical accounts vary. It is believed that he passed away in his monastic life.
Legacy:
1. Philosophical Influence: Vasubandhu's contributions significantly influenced the development of Buddhist philosophy, particularly within the Yogacara tradition.
2. Textual Contributions: His works, especially the "Abhidharmakosa," remain essential texts for the study of Buddhist philosophy and Abhidharma teachings.
Vasubandhu's impact on Buddhist thought and his role in the development of Yogacara philosophy make him a significant figure in the history of Buddhism in India. His writings continue to be studied and revered by scholars and practitioners interested in understanding the nuances of Buddhist philosophy.