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What texts did Vasubandhu write that are important to Yogachara Buddhism?
Vasubandhu, also known as Vasumitra, was a prominent Indian Buddhist philosopher and scholar who lived in the 4th-5th century CE. He is considered one of the co-founders of the Yogachara or "Yogic Practice" school of Buddhism, along with his brother Asanga. Vasubandhu's writings played a crucial role in shaping the philosophy and practices of Yogachara Buddhism.
One of the most important texts written by Vasubandhu is the "Abhidharmakosha" or "Treasury of Abhidharma." This work is a comprehensive and systematic exploration of Buddhist teachings on metaphysics, psychology, and ethics. It is divided into ten chapters and covers various topics such as the nature of reality, the nature of the mind, the concept of karma, and the path to enlightenment. The "Abhidharmakosha" is considered a foundational text in the study of Yogachara Buddhism and is still studied and revered by scholars and practitioners today.
Another significant work by Vasubandhu is the "Trisvabhavanirdesa" or "Treatise on the Three Natures." This text explores the concept of the three natures or "trisvabhava" in Yogachara Buddhism. These three natures refer to the imaginary nature, the dependent nature, and the perfected nature. The imaginary nature refers to the false perception of reality, the dependent nature refers to the interdependent nature of all phenomena, and the perfected nature refers to the ultimate nature of reality. This text delves deep into the nature of the mind and its relationship to reality, providing important insights into the practice of meditation and the pursuit of enlightenment.
Vasubandhu also wrote commentaries on important Buddhist sutras, such as the "Mahayanasutralamkara" and the "Lankavatara Sutra." His commentaries on these texts helped to clarify and expand upon the teachings of Yogachara Buddhism, making them more accessible to those seeking to understand and practice this school of thought.
In addition to these major works, Vasubandhu also wrote numerous other texts that are important to Yogachara Buddhism. These include the "Vimsatika" or "Twenty Verses," which presents a concise summary of the key teachings of Yogachara, and the "Karmasiddhi Prakarana" or "Treatise on the Establishment of Karma," which explores the concept of karma in depth.
In conclusion, Vasubandhu's writings played a crucial role in the development and spread of Yogachara Buddhism. His works continue to be studied and revered by Buddhists around the world, providing valuable insights into the nature of reality, the mind, and the path to enlightenment.