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How did Vasubandhu become a co-founder of Yogachara Buddhism?
Vasubandhu, also known as Vasumitra, was a renowned Buddhist scholar and philosopher who played a significant role in the development of Yogachara Buddhism. He was born in the 4th century CE in the kingdom of Gandhara, which is now part of modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan. Vasubandhu was born into a family of Brahmins, who were traditionally associated with the Vedic religion. However, he was deeply dissatisfied with the limitations of the Vedic tradition and sought a more profound understanding of life and existence.
At a young age, Vasubandhu became a monk and dedicated himself to the study and practice of Buddhism. He was a prodigious learner and quickly gained a reputation for his exceptional intelligence and deep understanding of Buddhist teachings. He was particularly drawn to the teachings of the Mahayana school of Buddhism, which emphasized the concept of emptiness and the idea that all phenomena are ultimately empty of inherent existence.
Vasubandhu's journey towards becoming a co-founder of Yogachara Buddhism began when he met his teacher, Asanga. Asanga was a renowned Buddhist scholar and practitioner who had founded the Yogachara school of thought, also known as the "Yogachara-Svatantrika-Madhyamika" school. Asanga was impressed by Vasubandhu's intelligence and dedication to Buddhism and took him as his disciple.
Under Asanga's guidance, Vasubandhu delved deeper into the study and practice of Yogachara Buddhism. He studied the Yogachara texts and teachings, including the famous "Yogacharabhumi-sastra," which became the basis for his later works. Vasubandhu's keen intellect and deep understanding of Buddhist philosophy allowed him to grasp the complexities of Yogachara teachings quickly.
As Vasubandhu's knowledge and understanding of Yogachara Buddhism grew, he began to contribute significantly to the development of the school. He wrote several commentaries and treatises, including the "Abhidharmakosa-bhasya," which remains one of the most influential works in Buddhist philosophy. His works were instrumental in shaping the Yogachara school and establishing it as a distinct school of thought within Mahayana Buddhism.
Vasubandhu's contributions to Yogachara Buddhism were not limited to his writings. He also played a crucial role in spreading the teachings of the school throughout India and beyond. He traveled extensively, teaching and debating with other Buddhist scholars, and his teachings gained widespread popularity.
In conclusion, Vasubandhu became a co-founder of Yogachara Buddhism through his dedication to the study and practice of Buddhism, his meeting with his teacher Asanga, and his significant contributions to the development and spread of the school's teachings. His legacy continues to influence and inspire Buddhist practitioners to this day.