Palushena
- Significance of Vairocana in the Yogacara school
- Palushena's role in introducing Yogacara Buddhism to China
- Diverse representations of Palushena, especially in Japan
- Cultural references in Tibet and Mongolia
Journey of Wisdom and Spiritual Union
Chinese Name for Vairocana
The Chinese designation for Vairocana, one of the FIVE GREAT BUDDHAS OF WISDOM, holds significant importance, especially within northern Buddhist sects, particularly those aligned with the Yogacara school. As per the Yogacara teachings, the goal for a Buddhist disciple is to seek a spiritual union with BUDDHA.
Palushena and the Spread of Yogacara BUDDHISM to China
In Buddhist lore, Palushena, a revered teacher, resided in an iron tower in southern India before the eighth century. His influence reached three Buddhist disciples, who subsequently introduced the tenets of Yogacara BUDDHISM to China. This integration occurred within the MAHAYANA ("Greater Vessel" or "Greater Vehicle") branch of Buddhism, influencing and amalgamating with other sects.
Varied Representations of Palushena
Palushena is depicted in diverse ways, particularly in Japan, where he is occasionally associated with the monk Kobo Daishi (774–835). Kobo Daishi founded the Shingon sect in Japan after a visit to China. Generally, Palushena is considered a reincarnation of the first Buddha and is equated with the Sun positioned at the universe's center.
Cultural References in Different Regions
In TIBET, Palushena is recognized as Rnam-par-snang-mdsad, while in MONGOLIA, the designation is Nasi Geigülün Djogiaqchi.