Vasubandhu, also known as Vasumitra, was a renowned Buddhist scholar and philosopher who co-founded the Yogachara school of Buddhism along with his brother Asanga. He was born in the 4th century CE in the Indian subcontinent and is considered one of the most influential figures in the development of Mahayana Buddhism.

Vasubandhu's main contribution to Yogachara philosophy lies in his extensive writings and teachings, which helped shape and define the school's beliefs and practices. His works, including the Abhidharmakosha and the Vimsatika, are considered fundamental texts in the Yogachara tradition and have been studied and revered by Buddhist scholars for centuries.

One of Vasubandhu's key contributions to Yogachara philosophy was his elaboration on the concept of "vijnapti-matra," or "consciousness-only." This idea holds that all phenomena, including the external world, are ultimately products of the mind and do not have an inherent existence. Instead, they are perceived and constructed by consciousness, which is subject to various mental formations and perceptions.

Vasubandhu also expanded on the concept of "alayavijnana," or "storehouse consciousness," which is a fundamental aspect of Yogachara philosophy. This refers to the repository of all past experiences, impressions, and karmic imprints that shape an individual's present and future experiences. According to Vasubandhu, the alayavijnana is the root of all suffering, and the goal of Yogachara practice is to purify and liberate this consciousness.

In addition to his philosophical contributions, Vasubandhu also played a significant role in shaping the Yogachara school's meditation practices. He emphasized the importance of mindfulness and introspection in understanding the nature of consciousness and achieving enlightenment. His teachings on meditation techniques, such as the "four foundations of mindfulness" and "cultivation of loving-kindness," continue to be practiced by Yogachara practitioners today.

Furthermore, Vasubandhu's writings also shed light on the Yogachara school's understanding of the concept of emptiness. He argued that emptiness does not mean a lack of existence but rather a lack of inherent existence. This idea is closely tied to the concept of "dependent origination," which holds that all phenomena arise and exist in dependence on other factors and are not independently existing entities.

In conclusion, Vasubandhu's contributions to Yogachara philosophy are vast and far-reaching. His writings and teachings have shaped the school's understanding of consciousness, meditation practices, and the concept of emptiness. His ideas continue to be studied and revered by Yogachara practitioners and scholars, making him a significant figure in the development of Mahayana Buddhism.