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What are the key beliefs of Yogachara Buddhism?
Yogachara Buddhism, also known as the "Yoga Practice" or "Consciousness Only" school, was founded by two Indian Buddhist philosophers, Asanga and Vasubandhu, in the 4th century CE. This school of thought is based on the teachings of the Yogachara-siddhi, a collection of texts believed to have been transmitted by the Buddha himself.
The key belief of Yogachara Buddhism is that the world and all phenomena are ultimately manifestations of the mind. This is known as the doctrine of "mind-only" or "consciousness-only." According to this belief, everything we experience, including ourselves, is a construct of our own mind and has no inherent existence.
Another important belief of Yogachara Buddhism is the concept of the "storehouse consciousness" or "alaya-vijnana." This is the fundamental consciousness that stores all the impressions and experiences of an individual from past lives. It is seen as the source of all mental and emotional patterns and tendencies, which can be purified through meditation and mindfulness.
Yogachara Buddhists also believe in the concept of "dependent origination," which states that all phenomena arise and exist in dependence on other phenomena. This is in contrast to the belief in an independent, permanent self that is taught in other schools of Buddhism. The idea of dependent origination is closely linked to the concept of emptiness, which states that all phenomena are empty of inherent existence and are dependent on causes and conditions.
The practice of meditation and mindfulness is central to Yogachara Buddhism. Through meditation, practitioners aim to develop insight into the true nature of reality and to overcome the delusions and attachments of the mind. Mindfulness, on the other hand, is the practice of being fully present in the moment and being aware of one's thoughts and actions.
Yogachara Buddhism also places a strong emphasis on compassion and the cultivation of the bodhisattva ideal. A bodhisattva is someone who has dedicated themselves to attaining enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. This ideal is seen as the ultimate goal of Yogachara Buddhism, and practitioners strive to develop qualities such as kindness, generosity, and wisdom in order to help others on their path to liberation.
In summary, the key beliefs of Yogachara Buddhism revolve around the mind and its role in creating our perceptions and experiences. Through meditation, mindfulness, and compassion, practitioners aim to understand the true nature of reality and ultimately attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.