Vasubandhu, also known as Vasumitra, was a prominent Buddhist philosopher and scholar who co-founded the Yogachara school of Buddhism along with his brother Asanga. Born in the 4th century CE in the kingdom of Gandhara, Vasubandhu's upbringing and background had a significant influence on his views and contributions to Yogachara Buddhism.

Firstly, Vasubandhu was born into a Brahmin family, which was considered to be the highest social class in ancient Indian society. As a Brahmin, he received a traditional Hindu education, which included studying the Vedas, Upanishads, and other Hindu scriptures. This background in Hinduism would have provided Vasubandhu with a strong foundation in Indian philosophical and religious thought, which he later incorporated into his teachings in Yogachara Buddhism.

Secondly, Vasubandhu's family was deeply involved in the Buddhist community, with his grandfather and father being prominent Buddhist monks. Growing up in a family of Buddhist scholars and practitioners, Vasubandhu was exposed to Buddhist teachings and practices from a young age. This exposure to Buddhism would have played a crucial role in shaping his views and understanding of the religion.

Furthermore, Vasubandhu's brother, Asanga, was also a Buddhist scholar and practitioner. Together, they studied under the guidance of their father and other prominent Buddhist masters, such as the renowned teacher Sarvastivada. Asanga's influence on Vasubandhu's views cannot be underestimated, as they collaborated on many works and co-founded the Yogachara school of Buddhism. Asanga's emphasis on meditation and the mind as the primary means of achieving enlightenment greatly influenced Vasubandhu's ideas and teachings in Yogachara Buddhism.

Additionally, Vasubandhu's personal experiences and struggles may have also shaped his views on Yogachara. According to some accounts, he initially studied and practiced under the Sarvastivada school of Buddhism but later became disillusioned with their teachings. This led him to explore other schools of Buddhism, including Mahayana and eventually Yogachara. His personal journey and search for the truth may have influenced his emphasis on introspection and the mind in Yogachara Buddhism.

In conclusion, Vasubandhu's background and upbringing had a significant influence on his views and contributions to Yogachara Buddhism. His education in Hinduism, exposure to Buddhism from a young age, and collaboration with his brother Asanga all played a crucial role in shaping his ideas and teachings. His personal experiences and struggles may have also influenced his emphasis on meditation and the mind in Yogachara Buddhism. Overall, Vasubandhu's unique background and experiences make him a key figure in the development of Yogachara philosophy and its impact on Buddhism.