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Yogācārabhūmi-Śāstra

The Yogācārabhūmi-Śāstra (YBh, Sanskrit; Treatise on the Foundation for Yoga Practitioners) is a large and influential doctrinal compendium, associated with Sanskritic Mahāyāna Buddhism (particularly Yogācāra).[1] According to Ulrich Timme Kragh, it is "a massive treatise that brings together a wealth of material stemming from Mainstream as well as Mahāyāna Buddhism."[2]

History

The Yogācārabhūmi is generally associated with the Indian Yogācāra school because it contains certain unique Yogācāra doctrines, like the eight consciousnesses and the ālaya-vijñāna (storehouse or foundational consciousness). According to Ulrich Timme Kragh, "its overall objective seems to be to present a coherent structure of Buddhist yoga practice with the Mahāyāna path of the bodhisattva placed at the pinnacle of the system", but substantial parts also deal with non-Mahāyāna "mainstream" practices.[1] The text also shows strong affinity to the Abhidharma works of the Mainstream Buddhist Sarvāstivāda school, adopting many of its technical terminology and classifications of phenomena (dharmas).[3]

While it likely contains earlier materials, the YBh is thought to have reached its final redaction in the fourth century CE.[4] Traditional sources name either the Indian thinker Asaṅga (ca. 300-350) or the bodhisattva Maitreya as author, but most modern scholars hold that it is a composite text with different chronological textual layers and various authors, though this does not rule out the possibility that Asaṅga was among them.[5][6]

According to scholars such as Changhwan Park and Robert Kritzer the YBh may have subtly influenced other North Indian Buddhist works such as the Abhidharmakośa and the works of the Sautrāntika school.[2] The YBh also exherted a strong influence on the later works of the Yogācāra-Vijñānavāda school, such as the Mahāyānasūtrālaṃkāra, the Abhidharma-samuccaya and the Mahāyānasaṃgraha.[7] Finally, the YBh also exherted a clear influence on the tantric tradition of Indian Buddhism of the sixth to fourteenth centuries (and the works of exegetes like Ratnākaraśānti), and the YBh is itself aware of the use of mantras and subjugation rituals that would become common to the tantric tradition.[8]

The YBh was studied and transmitted in East Asian Buddhist and Tibetan Buddhist translations. In China, it was the work of Xuánzàng (玄奘, 602?-664) that introduced the YBh in full.[9] It caused many debates, particularly around the notion that certain beings did not have the gotra, or spiritual disposition, to attain awakening.[10] By the end of the Sui dynasty (589-618), Buddhism within China had developed many distinct schools and traditions. In the words of Dan Lusthaus:

[ Xuanzang ] came to the conclusion that the many disputes and interpretational conflicts permeating Chinese Buddhism were the result of the unavailability of crucial texts in Chinese translation. In particular, he [Xuanzang] thought that a complete version of the Yogācārabhūmi-śāstra (Yuqielun, 瑜伽論), an encyclopedic description of the stages of the Yogācāra path to Buddhahood written by Asaṅga, would resolve all the conflicts. In the sixth century an Indian missionary named Paramārtha (another major translator) had made a partial translation of it. Xuanzang resolved to procure the full text in India and introduce it to China.[11]

The YBh was translated into Tibetan in the ninth century at Samye by Ye shes sde and Cog ro Klu'i rgyal mtshan working with the Indian paṇḍitas Prajñāvarman, Surendrabodhi, and Jinamitra.[12] The YBh remained influential in these traditions (for example, it is a major source of meditation instruction for Tsongkhapa's Lamrimchenmo), however, perhaps because of size and complexity, it was eventually abandoned in monastic seminaries.[13]

Besides the Chinese and Tibetan translations which survive in full, at least 50% of the text survives in nine extant Sanskrit fragments.[14] A translation project is currently underway to translate the entirety of Xuánzàng's version into English. It is being carried out by the Bukkyō Dendō Kyōkai society and the Numata Center for Buddhist Translation and Research.[15] A subsection of the work, the Bodhisattva-bhūmi, was translated into English by Artemus Engle and is part of the Tsadra series published by Shambhala Publications.

Overview of the Main Section

The complete YBh is often divided into the Basic Section and the Supplementary Section.The first section, which is the largest (49.9% of the work), is the "main stages division" or "the basic section" (Skt. *Maulyo Bhūmayaḥ, Ch. 本地分 Běn dì fēn, Tib. Sa'i dngos gzhi) and contains fourteen books that describe the successive seventeen levels (bhūmi), which cover the entire range of mental and spiritual stages of practice for the Mahāyāna bodhisattva.[16][17]

However, according to Ulrich Timme Kragh, "in the present context, the word bhūmi appears in many cases to imply a 'foundation' in the sense of a field of knowledge that the Yogācāra acolyte ought to master in order to be successful in his or her yoga practice."[18] Most of the Basic Section which includes such seminal works as the Bodhisattva-bhūmi and the Śrāvaka-bhūmi survives in Sanskrit, but little survives from the other parts. The following list is based on the Chinese arrangement, which seems to be closer to the original order.

The fourteen books of this section are:[19]

1 - Pañcavijñānakāyasamprayuktā Bhūmiḥ

"The Foundation on the Fivefold Group of Empirical Consciousness" provides a phenomenological analysis of the five sensory consciousnesses (the visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory, and tactile forms of consciousness), in terms of five points, their bases (āśraya), nature (svabhava), foci (alambana), accompanying mental states (sahaya) and functioning (karman).[20] Sense perception is said to have both material basis (the physical sense faculty) and a mental basis (the ālayavijñāna). The mental basis is the latent consciousness which is "the holder of all the seeds [for the mind and mental states]" (sarva-bījaka), "the appropriator of the [corporeal] basis (i.e., the body)" (āśrayopādātṛ), and "belonging to the [category of] karmic maturation" (vipāka-saṃgṛhīta), which refers to the fact that it is morally neutral.[20]

2 - Manobhūmi

"The Foundation on Cognition" discusses "thought-consciousness or reflexive consciousness [manas] that arises subsequent to the five sensory perceptions", in terms of the same five points outlined above. It also explains citta, manas, vijñāna, the ālayavijñāna and the afflictive cognition (kliṣṭaṃ manaḥ), using the schema of the eight consciousness. This book also explains the 51 mental factors (caittasikā dharmāḥ), "agreeing with the arrangement that is also seen in the first chapter of Asaṅga's Abhidharmasamuccaya."[21]

An explanation of the functioning or operation (karman) of cognition is also given which includes an extensive overview of death and rebirth, as well as an exposition of Buddhist cosmology and 24 typologies which discuss many modes of existence.[22] The rest of the book discusses various classifications of dharmas (phenomena), the first of which divides phenomena into physical (rūpasamudāya), mental (cittacaitasikakalāpa) and unconditioned (asaṃskṛta).[23] This exposition rejects the Abhidharma theory of atoms (paramāṇu) and instead posits that the seeds (bīja, causal potential) for physical matter are in the mind stream, which suggests that matter emerges from the mental.[23]

The second group of classifications relates to causality and explains time (adhvan), arising (jāti), elapsing (jarā), enduring (sthiti), impermanence (anityatā) and four types of causal conditions (pratyaya). The third group is an ethical classification of phenomena as being either beneficial (kuśala) or not (akuśala) or indeterminate (avyākṛta). The fourth classification includes the twelve constituents of perception (dhātu).[24]

3 - Savitarkasavicārādibhūmi

This book discusses three different foundations having to do with vitarka (discernment) and vicara (discursiveness): (1) the foundation which includes both, (2) the foundation with only discursiveness and (3) the foundation that has neither of these.[25]

According to Ulrich Timme Kragh "discernment is said to be the cognitive operation that is responsible for ascertaining what is perceived by the senses by initially labeling it with a name, while discursiveness is explained as being the subsequent conceptual operation of deciding whether the perceived sense-object is desirable and what course of action one might want to take in relation to it."[26] Because these two cognitive factors play a crucial role in samsaric bondage and in meditative concentration (samādhi, which is the pacification of these two factors), they are the focus of an extensive analysis in this book. This analysis is divided into five sections:[27]

  • A description of the three realms in saṃsāra: the desire realm (kāmadhātu), the form realm (rūpadhātu) and the realm of incorporeality (ārūpyadhātu).
  • A description of the various defining characteristics (lakṣaṇa) of discernment and discursiveness.
  • A description of the associated correct observation (yoniśomanaskāra), which is "a mental outlook inclined to practice generosity and uphold a good moral."[28]
  • A description of the associated incorrect observation (ayoniśomanaskāra), which consist of "sixteen types of mistaken views and beliefs," such as eternalism, materialism, belief in a Creator God, belief in the caste superiority of brahmins, and belief in animal sacrifice.[29]
  • A description of the defilements (saṃkleśa), which are "the emotive and rational states through which sentient beings misperceive reality, e.g., desire, hatred, and ignorance." These are presented as subdivided into different categories, a total of 128 types of defilement are outlined. This section also explains defilement in terms of karma and in terms of the defilement of rebirth and dependent origination (pratītyasamutpāda).[30]

4 - Samāhitā Bhūmiḥ

This book is titled "The Foundation on Meditative Immersion" and attempts to provide a coherent and exhaustive presentation of meditation. Large parts of this book make use of the canonical sutras of "conservative Buddhism" (i.e. non-Mahayana).[31] The first section of this book gives a general overview of meditation using four terms: meditation (dhyāna), liberation (vimokṣa), meditative attainment (samāpatti), and samādhi.[32]

The second section of this book provides an extensive presentation of meditation (dhyāna). First, five positive states to be cultivated and five negative states to be abandoned are explained. Then the five hindrances (nivaraṇa) are explained in detail. This is followed by a thorough explanation of each aspect (aṅga) of the four absorptions (catvāri dhyānāni). Also, various related terms from the scriptures are discussed.[33]

The third section provides a classification of the various types of meditation, these types are either divided into different forms of 'observation' (manasikāra) or classified according to the various foci (ālambana) on which one concentrates, which are called the 'images' (nimitta).[34] Forty types of meditative observation are listed and explained in detail in this section.

Meditative images are presented in terms of four aspects: (1) the image as the meditative focus (ālambananimitta), (2) the image as the basis for meditation (nidānanimitta), (3) the images that are to be abandoned (parivarjanīyaṃ nimittaṃ), and (4) the images that are to be relied upon (pratiniṣevaṇīyaṃ nimittaṃ). The images to be abandoned are: dimness (laya), restlessness (auddhatya), distraction (vikṣepa), and attachment (saṅga). A further 32 meditative images are also enumerated in this section, as well as how to enter the four meditative absorptions.[35]

The fourth section is a summary of how meditation is explained in the sutras. The topics of the meditative liberations (vimokṣa) and the various types of samādhi are outlined, such as the emptiness (śūnyatā), wishlessness (apraṇihita), and imagelessness (ānimitta), as well as samādhi with and without vitarka-vicara.[36]

5 - Asamāhitā Bhūmiḥ

This book, "The Foundation on Being Without Meditative Absorption", lists 12 states that remain devoid of meditative absorption, such as a mind that is engaged in the realm of sensual desire (kāmāvacara) or the mind of a beginner meditator that suffers from distraction (vikṣepa).[37]

6 - Sacittikā Acittikā Bhūmiḥ

This book, "The Foundation on Having Mentation and Being Without Mentation", examines the notion of 'mind' or 'mentation' (citta) in relation to meditation and other doctrines" and discusses different states that are with or without citta. States without citta include the meditative attainment of cessation (nirodhasamāpatti) and nirvāṇa, which is a state in which all mentation ceases, even the latent consciousness (ālayavijñāna).[38]

7 - Śrutamayī Bhūmiḥ

"The Foundation on What is Derived from Listening" focuses on various issues dealing with learning, listening to, and memorizing Buddhist spiritual knowledge (adhyātmavidyā). "Listening" is related to processes of "listening to religious discourses, memorizing and reciting scriptures, and recollecting various points of doctrine, all of which result in knowledge of the Buddhist teachings."[39]

The book contains an outline of various basic Buddhist concepts in different sets or groupings similar to Abhidharma lists. This book also contains outlines of other forms of knowledge, such as the arts of healing (cikitsā), logical reasoning (hetuvidyā), and linguistic knowledge (śabdavidyā).[39]

8 - Cintāmayī Bhūmiḥ

"The Foundation on What is Derived from Understanding" deals with understanding (cintā) which refers to when "the practitioner based on his or her studies of the teachings arrives at a singular 'view' or philosophical outlook of reality along with knowing the religious path that leads to the eradication of misconceptions of reality and the inner realization of this view."[40]

This presentation is divided into three sections. The first section explains how one internalizes what one has heard or studied. The practitioner is supposed to contemplate and analyze the meaning of what they have learned in solitude. The second section provides an analysis of what is to be known (jñeyapravicaya), which is divided into what exists and what does not exist. What exists is analyzed by various categories, such as their specific characteristics (svalakṣaṇa), general characteristics (sāmānyalakṣaṇa), and causal characteristics (hetulakṣaṇa).[40]

The book also presents a second analysis of "fivefold existence" (astitā) and fivefold non-existence which is more closely connected with the Yogācāra-Vijñānavāda doctrine of the three natures (trisvabhāva) and the three absences of intrinsic nature (triniḥsvabhāvatā). The fivefold existences are:[41]

  1. being existent in the sense of the perfectly accomplished character (pariniṣpannalakṣaṇa),
  2. being existent in the sense of the dependent character (paratantralakṣaṇa),
  3. being existent in the sense of the imagined character (parikalpitalakṣaṇa),
  4. being existent in the sense of a specific character (viṣeśalakṣaṇa),
  5. being existent as something having an inexpressible character (avaktavyalakṣaṇa).

The corresponding non-existences are:[41]

  1. lacking the character of highest reality (paramārthalakṣaṇa),
  2. lacking the character of being independent (svatantralakṣaṇa),
  3. entirely lacking any character of its own (sarveṇa sarvaṃ svalakṣaṇa),
  4. lacking a specific character (aviśeṣalakṣaṇa),
  5. lacking an expressible character (vaktavyalakṣaṇa).

The third section of this book, the analysis of the teachings (dharmapravicaya), "consists of three passages of selected canonical and paracanonical verses accompanied by a prose commentary."[41] Among the key topics discussed here are the latent consciousness (ālayavijñāna), and the three kinds of religious training (śikṣā). Many passages from the Udānavarga are quoted, which, according to Schmithausen, shows that the canon used by the compilers of this text belongs to the Mūlasarvāstivāda sect.[42]

9 - Bhāvanāmayī Bhūmiḥ

"The Foundation on What is Derived from Meditative Cultivation" discusses meditative cultivation (bhāvanā), in terms of its basis, conditions, the practice of yoga and its results. First, the right circumstances needed to encounter the teachings and practice them are explained, which include being reborn as a suitable sentient being, being born in the right place and so on.[43] Then an explanation of how to listen to the true teaching is given, mainly, one must listen without disdain, distraction or faintheartedness. This leads the practitioner to trust that nirvāṇa is a real and worthy goal and thus they turn their mind towards this as their ultimate aim.[44]

The book then discusses the conditions needed for achieving meditative insight (vipaśyanā) and tranquility (śamatha). The initial necessary circumstance leading to insight is said to be reliance on a spiritual friend (sanmitra) while tranquility is said to require the perfection of discipline (śīlasampatti).[44] The process towards spiritual realization is said to progress through the practice of ethical discipline and associating with a spiritual mentor, these two reinforce each other and lead to the study and internalization of the teachings, which give rise to a sense of renunciation of everything worldly and a yearning for realization. The spiritual seeker then applies all the remedies against the afflictions and achieves complete mental purity.[44]

After the inner and outer causes for spiritual development have been explained, this section then discusses the actual practice of meditative cultivation. This is explained through a list of ten types of remedies or antidotes (pratipakṣa) applied to counter the numerous afflictions and adverse inclinations (vipakṣa) that are also explained here. The ten meditative antidotes are:[45]

  1. contemplating (of the notion) of unattractiveness (aśubhasaṃjnā),
  2. contemplating impermanence (anityasaṃjnā),
  3. contemplating the suffering found in what is impermanent (anitye duḥkhasaṃjñā),
  4. contemplating selflessness with regard to what entails suffering (duḥkhe 'anātmasaṃjñā),
  5. fostering an attitude of indifference to food (āhāre pratikūlasaṃjñā),
  6. fostering an attitude of disinterest in anything worldly (sarvaloke anabhiratisaṃjñā),
  7. meditating on images of light (ālokasaṃjñā),
  8. fostering an attitude of detachment (virāgasaṃjñā),
  9. contemplating cessation (nirodhasaṃjñā),
  10. contemplating death (maraṇasaṃjñā).

Following this presentation, the book discusses practical advice related to the attainment of meditative immersion (samādhilābha), covering topics such as living with others, finding and learning from a teacher, material affairs, one's environment, sleep and eating patterns, practicing asceticism, etc.[46]

Then, the fulfillment of meditative immersion (samādhiparipūri) is discussed, which refers to the process in which a meditator goes deeper into samadhi and achieves mastery of meditation, experiencing five stages of fruition.[47]

10 - Śrāvakabhūmi

"The Foundation on the Hearer". This book focuses on practices associated with "hearers" or "disciples" (śrāvaka). Lambert Schmithausen, Noritoshi Aramaki, Florin Deleanu and Alex Wayman all hold that this is the oldest layer of the YBh.[48]

The Śrāvakabhūmi is divided into four sections called yogasthānas (yogic foundations or topics) and is the second largest book of the YBh.

Yogasthāna 1

The first subdivision of the first yogasthāna is called the Gotrabhūmi, and it discusses, in depth, how different practitioners have different spiritual dispositions (gotra), which is explained as a mental potential or capacity, which is like a seed (bīja-dharma) for spiritual achievement, found in the person since beginningless time.[49] This predisposition is at first hidden, but if a person encounters the right causes and conditions, they will reach nirvāṇa. This section also discusses the qualities of persons that are "not predisposed" for awakening, which are persons that lack the qualities needed to attain nirvāṇa.[50] The different types of predisposed persons are also discussed.

The second subdivision is called the Avatārabhūmi and it focuses on how different types of persons enter (avatāra) into the path as well as the characteristics of these different types of persons that have entered the path (avatīrṇāḥ pudgalāḥ).[51]

The third foundation of the first yogasthāna is "The Foundation of Going Forth" (naiṣkramyabhūmi). Going forth is a term which implies the abandonment of the household life and becoming a monastic but can also generally refer to entering the spiritual life.[52] This foundation could technically be seen as covering the rest of the entire Śrāvakabhūmi and covers the entire path of practice. The path is divided into two branches, the mundane (laukikaḥ mārgaḥ) and supramundane (lokottaraḥ mārgaḥ).[52]

In following the mundane path, practitioners realize that the realm of sense desire is brutish and coarse and see that the absorption and rapture of the first dhyāna is superior and serene. In practicing this dhyāna, they achieve detachment from sense desire. They then realize that this meditation is also coarse, and progress to the second dhyāna, and so on until they reach the fourth dhyāna and beyond into the four immaterial attainments.[52] The supramundane path meanwhile entails finding a genuine teacher, gaining knowledge of Dharma and realizing the four noble truths for oneself through vipaśyanā meditation they completely transcend saṃsāra.[53]

The rest of this text discusses the 13 requisites (sambhāra) needed for journeying along these paths:[54]

  1. The first requisite is a human rebirth in a place and condition that is opportune for practicing the Dharma,
  2. The second is the fact that a Buddha has appeared in the world, has taught the Dharma, and that this has been successfully transmitted down to the present
  3. The third is to have a beneficial aspiration for [practicing] the Dharma (kuśalo dharmacchanda).
  4. The fourth requisite is the restraint of discipline (śīlasaṃvara), which refers to keeping the ethical prātimokṣa rules.
  5. The fifth requisite is sense restraint (indriya-saṃvara) which means to "keep the doors of the senses guarded, maintaining a protective awareness (ārakṣitasmṛti)" and "a constantly watchful awareness (nipakasmṛti)." This practice requires that one carefully observes the process of sense perception to avoid adopting confused or harmful thinking that leads to the defilements, such as thinking that what is unattractive is attractive.
  6. The sixth requisite is the right amount of food intake (bhojane mātra-jñatā). It is eating with careful consideration, only for the sake of a healthy body, not pleasure, company or bodily beauty.
  7. The seventh requisite is to practice staying awake (jāgarikāyoga) in the evening (first part of the night after sunset) and in the early morning (last part of the night before sunrise). This is accomplished by taking a walk and through the visualization of a mass of light.
  8. The eighth requisite is to move about attentively (saṃprajānadvihāritā) during all of one's daily activities and in all postures.
  9. The ninth requisite is to find a proper spiritual teacher (kalyāṇamitra), the right qualities of a good teacher are then outlined, including pure discipline, knowing much, being compassionate, etc.
  10. The tenth requisite "is to listen to the true Dharma and understand it (saddharmaśravaṇacintanā)". This section explains the twelve branches of the Buddha's Dharma and the threefold division of Sutra, Vinaya and Abhidharma.
  11. The eleventh requisite is to be free from obstacles (anantarāya). This section outlines the many different kinds of obstacles that block one's practice.
  12. The twelfth requisite is 'relinquishment' (tyāga), defined as "giving items that are beyond reproach as gifts."
  13. The thirteenth requisite is to possess "the ornaments of a renunciant" (śramaṇālaṃkāra), which is a list of seventeen qualities including: faith (śrāddha), honesty (aśatha), intelligence (prājña), asceticism, and patience (kṣama).

Yogasthāna 2

The second section discusses 28 different personality types and also various ways of classifying spiritual practitioners. An example of one such classification is that of persons of different temperaments (caritaprabheda). These are: the temperament of desire and attachment (rāgacaritaḥ), the temperament of dislike and hatred (dveṣacaritaḥ), the temperament of deludedness and stupidity (mohacaritaḥ), the temperament of pride and self-conceit (mānacarita), the temperament of intellectuality (vitarkacarita), and the temperament with equal amounts [of each afflictive state] (samabhāgacarita).[55]

Following this exposition, the various meditative foci (ālambana) are explained. It is in this section that concrete meditation techniques appear in this treatise. These meditations are divided into four kinds: (I) general [types of] foci, (II) foci purifying the practitioner's temperament, (III) foci [for developing] expertise, and (IV) foci purifying the afflictions.[56]

There are four types of general foci (vyāpyālambanam):[56]

  1. The conceptual image (savikalpaṃ pratibimbam), used in insight meditation (vipaśyanā). A meditator chooses a doctrinal topic such as the four noble truths, dependent arising, or the aggregrates and analyzes it conceptually while resting in meditation until a realization emerges.
  2. The non-conceptual image (nirvikalpaṃ pratibimbam) used in tranquility meditation (śamatha). The mind is brought to rest on the object without analysis in nine steps called "the nine aspects of resting the mind" (navākārā cittasthitiḥ).
  3. The entirety of things (vastuparyantatā). This is to concentrate on the five aggregates (skandha), the eighteen constituents of perception (dhātu), or the twelve perceptual domains (āyatana) concerning their causality, function, or characteristics.
  4. The fourth type of general foci is the perfection of the aim [of meditation] (kāryapariniṣpatti), where the meditative image is transcended, one reaches the dhyanas and attains the vision of non-conceptual, direct knowledge (nirvikalpam pratyakṣaṃ jñāna-darśanam).

The foci for purifying the practitioner's temperament (caritaviśodhanam ālambanam) contains extensive explanations of five contemplative objects:[57]

  • The person with a temperament of desire is assigned various meditations on unattractiveness (aśubhā) and charnel ground contemplation (maraṇasati). This section also teaches meditation on the unattractiveness of the mental afflictions and on the unattractiveness of the impermanence of the five aggregates.
  • The person with a temperament of dislike and hatred is assigned the meditation on friendliness (maitrī). The meditation consists of wishing happiness for one's friends, enemies and neutral persons until one is able to rest in an expansive and unlimited absorption state that wishes well for all. This method is then applies to meditation on compassion (karuṇā) and sympathetic rejoicing (muditā).
  • The person with a temperament of deludedness and stupidity is assigned the meditation on causality and dependent arising (idaṃpratyayatāpratītya-samutpāda).
  • The person with a temperament of pride and conceit is assigned the meditation on the division of the constituents (dhātuprabheda), i.e. the six elements of earth, water, fire, air, space, and consciousness.
  • The person with an intellectual temperament is assigned the various meditations on breathing mindfulness (ānāpānasmṛti). Five different techniques are presented: (1) counting the breath, (2) observing how each of the five aggregates is involved in the breathing process, (3) observing dependent arising through the breath, (4) observing the four noble truths, (5) the exercise of the sixteen aspects (ṣoḍaśākāra-paricaya) of ānāpānasmṛti.

The third type of foci, which are also termed the foci [for developing] expertise (kauśalyālambana), refers to the following:[58]

  • Expertise in the aggregates (skandhakauśalya), is cultivated by contemplating the distinct nature of each aggregate and understanding none of them as a permanent, unchanging phenomenon.
  • Expertise in the constituents [of perception] (dhātukauśalya), is cultivated by observing how each dhātu "arises, unfolds, and becomes cognizant."
  • Expertise in the domains [of perception] (āyatana-kauśalya), is cultivated by contemplating how the different conditions in each domain give rise to each type of consciousness.
  • Expertise in dependent arising (pratītyasamutpādakauśalya) is cultivated as follows: "the meditator first analyzes how each link serves as a condition for the subsequent link to arise and then understands that the causality involved in this process requires each phenomenon to be impermanent. Since they are impermanent, they also involve suffering and are without any self."[59]
  • Expertise in what constitutes a basis and what does not constitute a basis [for beneficial action and desirable karmic results] (sthānāsthānakauśalya) is cultivated by meditating on how negative and beneficial actions have different kinds of karmic results.

The fourth meditative object is the foci purifying the afflictions (kleśaviśodhanaṃ ālambanam). This is related to the mundane and supramundane paths. In the mundane path, meditation focuses on seeing the realm of existence one is currently on (e.g. realm of desire) as coarse, while the realm which is immediately above (i.e. first dhyana) is seen as peaceful. Then once one has attained the higher realm in meditation, one continues this process (i.e. one sees the first dhyana as coarse and the second dhyana as peaceful and so on).[59] On the supramundane path, the foci for meditation are the four noble truths.[59]

After these presentations, there follows an exposition on how to give instructions to a student, and another section on the three trainings (superior discipline, superior meditative mind and superior insight). Then there follows a segment which outlines "ten factors that go along with the training (śikṣānulomikā dharmāḥ), which are remedies to ten factors that go against the dharma. These are:[60]

  1. the contemplation of unattractiveness (aśubhasaṃjñā) counters sexual attachment,
  2. the contemplation of impermanence (anityasaṃjñā) remedies belief in a self,
  3. the contemplation of suffering with regard to what is impermanent (anitye duḥkhasaṃjñā) overcomes laziness and apathy,
  4. the contemplation of no-self in suffering (duḥkhe 'nātmasaṃjñā) opposes belief in a self,
  5. the contemplation of the un-attractiveness of food (āhāre pratikūlasaṃjñā) counters desire for eating,
  6. the contemplation of the lack of real happiness anywhere in the world (sarvaloke 'nabhiratisaṃjñā) works against craving for listening to chatter about the world,
  7. the visualization of light (ālokasaṃjñā) remedies states that cloud or confuse the mind, such as doubt, unclarity, tiredness, sleepiness, and so forth,
  8. the contemplation of non-attachment (virāgasaṃjñā) works against attachment to the bliss experienced in higher states of meditation,
  9. the contemplation of cessation (nirodhasaṃjñā) overcomes desire for the meditative absorption,
  10. the contemplation of death (maraṇasaṃjñā) remedies the misery that arises from wishing and hoping for life.

The second Yogasthāna also gives a general definition of yoga as "spiritual practice", which is said to have four aspects, (1) faith (śraddhā), (2) aspiration (chandas), (3) perseverance (vīrya), and (4) spiritual methods (upāya).[61]

Another segment of the second Yogasthāna explains four levels of mental observation, engagement or attention (manaskāra) as it relates to the strength and constancy of one's mental focus on the object of meditation. These four levels are:[61]

  1. forceful application [of the mind towards the meditative object] (balavāhana),
  2. interrupted application (sacchidravāhana),
  3. uninterrupted application (niśchidravāhana),
  4. effortless application (anābhogavāhana).

Other topics are also outlined in the second Yogasthāna, including the nine types of ascertainment (adhimokṣa) of the meditative focus, the four aims of yoga (yoga-karaṇīya), the different kinds of yoga practitioners (yogācāra), the cultivation of notions (saṃjñā-bhāvanā), the thirty-seven factors of Awakening (saptatriṃśad bodhipakṣyā dharmāḥ) and the four stages of contemplative fruition (bhāvanāphala).[62]

Yogasthāna 3

The third section discusses various practical issues on the path, how one approaches a teacher and how a teacher assesses a student's abilities and predispositions.[63] Then five topics which a teacher instructions their student are discussed:[63]

  1. How to guard and accumulate the requisites needed for meditation (samādhisaṃbhārarakṣopacaya).
  2. How to practice in solitary retreat (prāvivekya). The best location is in the wilderness, but it should also be safe and it should be easy to obtain provisions. The ideal retreat is done in solitude.
  3. How to achieve one-pointedness of mind (cittai-kāgratā). Samadhi is defined in this section as "a stream of mind characterized by continuous irreproachable bliss whose focus is an appropriate object of constant mindfulness."[64] This section also discusses the practice of tranquility (śamatha) and meditative insight (vipaśyanā). Tranquility is discussed through "the nine aspects of resting the mind" (navākārā cittasthitiḥ) and the four levels of mental observation. Vipaśyanā is explained through "four supports" for insight and "three gates".[65]
  4. How to purify the hindrances (āvaraṇaviśuddhi). This is done by (1) recognizing the nature (svabhāva) of the hindrances, (2) knowing the circumstances (nidāna) under which they arise, (3) realizing the drawbacks (ādīnava) that they cause, and (4) employing the right remedies (pratipakṣa).[66]
  5. How to cultivate meditative observation (manaskārabhāvanā), four progressive stages are outlined. The first is "the observation that toughens the mind", which leads to disenchantment with saṃsāra. Then one practices "the observation that moistens the mind" through recollecting the qualities of the three jewels. Thirdly, one practices the observation that produces inner comfort, relaxation, and ease (praśrabdhi-janako) through resting in śamatha and vipaśyanā meditation. Finally, one reaches "the observation that perfects knowledge and the view...by first perfecting the practice of śamatha and thereupon repeatedly penetrating into the nature of phenomena with the insight of vipaśyanā." The goal of this is a mind that "has become one-pointed, gentle, and peaceful, and the various types of negative temperaments no longer arise in the circumstances where they typically would be felt."[67]

Yogasthāna 4

The fourth section discusses the mundane and supramundane paths in detail. The mundane path deals with abandoning the sensual realm and practicing the meditative absorptions (dhyānas), which lead to rebirth in higher realms (but does not lead to awakening).[67] The various meditative observations that lead to the practice of the dhyānas is taught in this section, and the characteristics of the eight dhyānas are analyzed in detail.[68]

Other meditative attainments are also discussed, such as the meditative attainment of non-ideation (asaṃjñisamāpatti) and the meditative attainment of cessation (nirodhasamāpatti). The results of these practices are also presented, including the five types of extrasensory knowledge (pañcābhijñā), and rebirth in the realm of non-sensual corporeality (rūpadhātu) and the realm of incorporeality (ārūpyadhātu).[69]

Turning to the supramundane path (lokottaraḥ mārgaḥ), practicing this path requires fully understanding the four noble truths and its sixteen characteristics through meditative observation. These sixteen characteristics are explained in detail, they are:[70]

  • The four characteristics of the truth of suffering are impermanence (anityākāra), suffering (duḥkhākāra), emptiness (*śūnyākāra), and selflessness (anātmākāra).
  • The four characteristics of the origin of suffering are cause (hetu), origination (samudaya), production (prabhava), and condition (pratyaya).
  • The characteristics the end of suffering are cessation (nirodha), peace (śānta), excellence (praṇīta), and escape (niḥsaraṇa).
  • The characteristics of the path to the end of suffering are being the path (mārga), the method (nyāya), the practice (pratipatti), and what leads out [of suffering] (nairyāṇika).

This path leads to nirvana as an arhat, through the ultimate meditation that gains insight into the four noble truths, called the vajra-like meditation (vajropamaḥ samādhi).[71]

11 - Pratyekabuddhabhūmi

This short section titled "The Foundation on the Solitary Buddha" outlines the disposition, path and practices of the pratyekabuddha. Kragh notes that "the pratyekabuddha avoids crowds and takes pleasure in solitude, exhibits little compassion and is not inclined to teach others, and is of mediocre aptitude and has a temperament of pride."[72]

12 - Bodhisattvabhūmi

The Foundation on the Mahāyāna Bodhisattva, which is the longest book in the basic section, is divided into three yogasthānas and ten topics:[73]

  1. the basis for being a bodhisattva (ādhāra)
  2. the characteristics of a bodhisattva (liṅga)
  3. the classes of bodhisattvas (pakṣa)
  4. the bodhisattva's exalted conviction (adhyāśaya)
  5. the dwellings of a bodhisattva's practice (vihāra)
  6. the bodhisattva's rebirths (upapatti)
  7. how bodhisattvas lead sentient beings to perfection (parigraha)
  8. the spiritual levels (bhūmi)
  9. the bodhisattva's practices (caryā)
  10. the ascension to Buddhahood (pratiṣṭhā)

Yogasthāna 1

Yogasthāna one is titled the section on the basis (ādhārayogasthāna) because it deals with the basis (ādhāra) for becoming a bodhisattva (topic 1). There are three main aspects of the basis of a bodhisattva. The first is an inborn unique predisposition (svagotra) for the bodhisattva path, those who lack this are said to be unable to reach Buddhahood. The second is "the basis of initially engendering the resolve to reach Buddhahood (prathamaś cittotpādaḥ), which refers to arousing bodhicitta, practicing the perfections for the benefit of oneself and others, and so forth. The third is "the basis of practicing all the factors leading to Awakening" (sarve bodhipakṣyā dharmāḥ).[74]

Those who will become Buddhas are said to have a particular 'original nature' (prakṛti), which is like a 'seed' (bīja) that predisposes them to this path. This nature is accomplished through the cultivation of good qualities.[75] These persons are seen as "vastly superior to śrāvakas, pratyekabuddhas, and all ordinary sentient beings" because they have the ability to remove cognitive hindrances (jñeyāvaraṇa) and afflictive hindrances (kleśāvaraṇa), while other beings are only able to remove afflictive hindrance. Also, bodhisattvas practice for the good and well-being of all sentient beings, while practitioners of other paths only practice for their own good.[76] These persons are generally caring, compassionate, harmless, helpful, love solitude and have a natural capacity for understanding the Buddhadharma.[76]

The bodhisattva's resolve to attain Buddhahood is described in detail. Its conditions, causes, aspects, qualities and so forth are outlined.[77] The book explains how a bodhisattva engenders this wish and how they must practice, which is divided into seven undertakings.[77]

  1. Training for their own benefit
  2. Training for the benefit of others, which must be balanced with the first undertaking.
  3. Training in realizing the nature of reality (tattvārtha), which in an ultimate sense refers to the insubstantiality of phenomena (dharmanairātmya) and that all phenomena are without the duality (advaya) of existence (bhāva) and non-existence (abhāva).[78]
  4. Developing five types of spiritual power (prabhāva) such as different forms of clairvoyance (abhijñāprabhāva), and the power of the six perfections.[79]
  5. Developing sentient beings, which depends on their innate dispositions for different paths and so on.
  6. Developing the qualities of a Buddha in themselves
  7. Highest and complete Awakening (anuttarā samyaksaṃbodhiḥ), which is only achieved through the removal of the afflictive hindrances and the cognitive hindrances.

Yogasthāna one also expounds on the six perfections (ṣaṭpāramitā) at length, they are:

  • The perfection of generosity (dānapāramitā). Dāna's nature is that "the bodhisattva gives to others whatever they need" without attachment, self-interest or partiality. This includes material things and the bodhisattva's own body as well as teaching Dharma, but not weapons or things that cause harm.[80]
  • The perfection of discipline (śīlapāramitā). One practices ethical discipline (śīla) by receiving, keeping and restoring ethical vows (saṃvara) properly. This includes both vows for householders and monastics.[81] It also includes doing all kinds of beneficial actions such as studying the Dharma, teaching others, caring for the sick, giving material goods, praising the good qualities of others, protecting others from danger, and leading others away from negative actions.[82] The procedure for taking the bodhisattva vow is explained as well as the various transgressions of this vow. The four major transgressions are: (1) to belittle others and exalt oneself in hope of gain, (2) to refuse to help suffering beings by not giving alms or not sharing the Dharma (to those who ask for it), (3) to harm others and hold a grudge against others, (4) to disparage the bodhisattva teachings.[83]
  • The perfection of endurance (kṣāntipāramitā). Kṣānti refers to patience, endurance and forbearance. Kragh states that this "must be done with an attitude free from any hope of reward, must be purely motivated by compassion, and must fully forgive the wrongdoing in its entirety."[84] There are three main modes of endurance: (1) patiently bearing wrongdoings inflicted by others, (2) accepting suffering (hardships and distress), and (3) the endurance of resolving to comprehend the Dharma through patient perseverance.[84] A bodhisattva does this through different means, such as reflecting that suffering is caused by past karma, contemplating how people who harm us now may have been our relatives in a past life, and he contemplation of impermanence.[85]
  • The perfection of drive or enthusiasm (vīryapāramitā). Vīrya is a strong mental energy or force which aims at gathering good qualities and doing good activities. There are three types: (1) the armor-like drive (which willingly accepts working to help others for eons on end), (2) the drive for gathering good qualities (i.e. practicing the paramitas), and (3) the drive devoted to acting for the benefit of sentient beings (by performing beneficial actions).[86]
  • The perfection of meditation (dhyānapāramitā). Dhyāna refers to resting the mind (cittasthiti) so there is one-pointedness of mind (cittaikāgrya). This may refer to śamatha or vipaśyanā, or to a union of the two.[87] It may be done for the sake of happiness in this life, for the sake of gaining the bodhisattva qualities (special samādhis unknown to other paths) and for the sake of helping other sentient beings.[87]
  • The perfection of wisdom (prajñāpāramitā). This refers to mastering the five fields of knowledge, which include mundane knowledge as well as ultimate spiritual knowledge (of both the śrāvaka and bodhisattva baskets) such as the four noble truths, cause and effect, etc.[88]

Following the exposition of the perfections, further sections teach various topics such as how to gather students (through giving, affectionate speech, meaningful activity and having a common aim), how to revere the three jewels (through various forms of puja), how to serve and rely on a qualified spiritual teacher (kalyāṇamitra, "good friend") and how to cultivate the four immeasurables (apramāṇa).[89]

Important qualities of a spiritual teacher include: being disciplined and pure in conduct, intelligent and well-educated in the doctrine, experienced and realized in meditation, compassionate, patient and caring, being without attachments and having few wants and needs, skilled at giving clear teachings, and being impartial in teaching others.[90]

Regarding practicing the four immeasurables (apramāṇa), this section states that this can be done in three main ways: by focusing on sentient beings, by focusing on the phenomena (dharmās) which make up sentient beings or completely without focus or reference (anālambanāni).[91] This section also discusses the special kind of compassion that a bodhisattva cultivates, namely great compassion (mahākaruṇā). This kind of compassion is directed towards the suffering of all beings and is cultivated for hundreds of thousands of aeons. A bodhisattva with great compassion would do anything to help sentient beings, such as give up their life in hundreds of rebirths, and endure any torment. The cultivation of the four immeasurables "is said to lead to instant happiness in this life, vast accumulation of merit, development of a firm wish to reach Awakening, and ability to carry the sufferings of others."[92]

The following chapters contain an exposition of all the factors leading to Awakening, the third main aspect of the basis for becoming a bodhisattva. This covers sixteen elements of a bodhisattvas training:[93]

  1. To have conscience and a sense of embarrassment (hrīvyapatrāpya), an inner sense of right and wrong.
  2. To develop a firm strength (dhṛtibalādhānatā), a steadiness on the path which can control the deluded mind. It is developed by enduring suffering, recognizing negative behaviors and study.
  3. To develop tirelessness (akhedatā) in all beneficial undertakings through training in insight and compassion.
  4. To gain knowledge in the various fields of learning
  5. To know the world (lokajñatā), which is to see how saṃsāra is an endless and insecure cycle of birth and death, and constantly changing circumstances.
  6. To lean on the four reliances (catvāri pratisaraṇāni). These are (1) to rely on the meaning and not on the words, (2) to rely on logic and not on the person giving the teaching, (3) to rely on scriptures of definitive meaning and not on scriptures of provisional meaning (4) when in doubt to rely on the essential understanding one has achieved oneself and not merely on knowledge one has heard from others.[94]
  7. Mastering the four analytical knowledges (of the Dharma, meaning, derivative analysis, rhetoric).
  8. Gathering the requisites for Awakening (bodhisaṃbhāra), the requisite of merit (puṇyasaṃbhāra) and the requisite of knowledge (jñānasaṃbhāra).
  9. To practice the thirty-seven factors of Awakening (saptatriṃśad bodhipakṣyā dharmāḥ), but not to actualize them (na caināṃ sākṣātkaroti).
  10. To practice calming meditation (śamatha). According to Timme Kragh, "the practice is essentially the same as that taught in the śrāvaka path but the bodhisattvaengages in these in a special way bringing in a Mahāyāna Prajñāpāramitā understanding."[95]
  11. The bodhisattva's practice of insight meditation (vipaśyanā), which is focused on the ultimate level of the thirty-seven factors of Awakening and is preceded by calming meditation.
  12. The bodhisattva's expertise in the methods (upāyakau-śalya).
  13. The bodhisattva's mastery of retentiveness (dhāraṇī), which refers to the power of memory/remembering teachings as well as the power of mantras and formulas.
  14. To engender bodhisattva-aspirations (bodhisattva-praṇidhāna).
  15. To accomplish three meditative absorptions (samādhi): emptiness (śūnyatāsamādhi), wishlessness (apraṇihitaḥ samādhiḥ), and imagelessness (ānimittaḥ samādhiḥ).
  16. The teaching of the four summary statements (catvārimāni dharmoddānāni): (1) everything conditioned is impermanent (anityāḥ sarvasaṃskārāḥ), (2) everything conditioned is suffering (duḥkhāḥ sarvasaṃskārāḥ), (3) all phenomena are without a [permanent] self (anātmānaḥ sarvadharmāḥ), and (4) nirvāṇa is peace (śāṃtaṃ nirvāṇam).

The last section of Yogasthāna one contains four lists of qualities that advanced bodhisattvas have.

Yogasthāna 2

Yogasthāna two (titled "the section on the subsidiary factors ensuing from the basis" ādhārānudharmayogasthāna) explains the characteristics (liṅga) of bodhisattvas (mainly: compassion, affectionate speech, courage, openhandedness, and the ability to unravel deep underlying meanings).[96]

Furthermore, the classes (pakṣa) of bodhisattvas are explained (lay and monastic) along with their four main Dharmas or practices: good deeds, skillfulness and expertise (kauśalya), caring for others (parānugrāha) and dedicatory transfer of merit (pariṇāmanā).[97] The monastic bodhisattvas are said to be superior.[98]

The exalted conviction (adhyāśaya) of a bodhisattva is then explained, which refers to their pure motivation and mindset.[98] A bodhisattva is said to have tenderness towards sentient beings, they are also said to have conviction in the Buddha's teachings derived from faith and analysis. Different forms of conviction are then outlined.[98]

Yogasthāna two also sets out thirteen levels or dwellings (vihāra) of accomplishment in the practice of a bodhisattva.

Yogasthāna 3

Yogasthāna three ("the section on the culmination of the basis", ādhāraniṣṭhāyogasthāna) explains general topics six through ten.[99]

Topic six, is the five kinds of rebirths (upapatti) a bodhisattva undergoes during their journey, which are:[100]

  1. Rebirth pacifying harm (itiśaṃśamanī upapattiḥ). A bodhisattva is reborn in a difficult time (famine, plague, etc) in order to help others during this time.
  2. Rebirth assuming a corresponding form (tat-sabhāgānuvartinī upapatti). A bodhisattva is reborn among beings who harm others, such as animals, gods, demons, or heretics, and leads them to a good path.
  3. Rebirth into greatness (mahattvopapatti). A bodhisattva is born into excellent circumstances and becomes a great person who spiritually benefits others.
  4. Rebirth with authority (ādhipatyopapatti). A bodhisattva is born into a position of rulership over the world or the gods.
  5. The bodhisattva's final rebirth in which they become a Buddha.

Topic seven outlines six ways that bodhisattvas lead (parigraha) sentient beings to perfection:[101]

  1. Leading all sentient beings simultaneously (sakṛtsarvasattva-parigraha). Bodhisattvas regard all sentient beings as their partner.
  2. Leading through authority (ādhipatyaparigraha), through a position such as head of a household or a king.
  3. Leading an assembly (upādānaparigraha), which refers to residing over a perfect congregation.
  4. Guiding for a long time (dīrghakālikam upādānam), is when a bodhisattva must care and guides certain beings slowly and for a long time.
  5. Guiding for a short time (adīrghakālikam upādānam), is when they guide beings only for a short time.
  6. Final guiding (caramam upādānam) refers to caring for individuals who are very advanced.

Topic eight explains the seven bodhisattva levels (bhūmis) and how they related to the thirteen vihāras.[102]

Topic nine sums up all the bodhisattva practices (caryā) into four main groups:[103]

  • The practice of the perfections (pāramitācaryā), the six perfections are outlined and four more perfections are also explained.
  • The practice of the factors of Awakening (bodhipakṣyacaryā) which refers to the thirty-seven factors of Awakening, the four investigations, and the four complete knowledges of things as they really are.
  • The practice of six clairvoyances (abhijñācaryā)
  • The practice of developing sentient beings (sattva-paripākacaryā)

Finally, general topic number ten explains the bodhisattva's ascension (pratiṣṭhā) to Buddhahood along with all the Buddha qualities which are manifested in them (140 exceptional buddha-qualities are outlined. including the 32 marks and the ten powers of a Tathāgata).[104]

13 - Sopadhikā Bhūmiḥ

The "Foundation on Having an Existential Substratum" discusses the state of the living arhat, as well as "what it is that forms the remaining layer or basis for continued saṃsāric existence, namely the notion of there being an existential substratum (upadhi)", such as the five aggregates and so forth.[105]

14 - Nirupadhikā Bhūmiḥ

The last book, the "Foundation on Being Without an Existential Substratum" explains the state of an arhat who has died and entered parinirvāṇa (final nirvana), and thus is without a substratum for continued existence.[106] This book discusses parinirvāṇa which is said to be complete and eternal extinction and completion (nirvṛti).[107]

Supplementary Section

This part is made up of four 'collections' or 'compendia' (saṃgrahaṇī, shè 攝, bsdu ba), which supplement the Basic Section:[108]

  • Viniścayasaṃgrahaṇī (Compendium of Ascertainment). This compendium discusses and provides a clarification (viniścaya) on aspects of the seventeen bhumis from the Basic Section. This section also contains a "detailed treatment of ālayavijñāna and at the same time quoting and making use of the Saṃdhinirmocanasūtra." Thus it is considered a later strata by Schmithausen.[48]
  • Vyākhyāsaṃgrahaṇī (Compendium of Exegesis). This is a manual of hermeneutical and exegetical techniques, as well as on rhetorical and logical argument (hetuvidyā).
  • Paryāyasaṃgrahaṇī (Compendium of Related Terms). This text defines many of the various strings of quasi-synonymical expressions found in the Āgamas.
  • Vastusaṃgrahaṇī (Compendium of [Selected] Themes). Lambert Schmithausen, Florin Delenau and Noritoshi Aramaki all hold that this is part of the oldest textual layer.[48] It includes:
    • The Sūtravastusaṃgrahaṇī which summarizes and explains key topics of each sūtra contained in the Samyukta-āgama.
    • 'The Compendium of the Vinaya' (Vinayavastusaṃgrahaṇī)
    • 'The compendium of Abhidharma lists' (Mātṛkavastusaṃgrahaṇī).

The Chinese version also contains a Compendium of Abhidharma, missing from the Tibetan translation.

An Indian commentary was also written on the YBh, called the Yogācārabhūmivyākhyā.[109]

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  83. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 175-176.
  84. ^ a b Kragh 2013, p. 178.
  85. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 179.
  86. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 181.
  87. ^ a b Kragh 2013, p. 183.
  88. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 185-186.
  89. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 186-188.
  90. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 189-190.
  91. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 190.
  92. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 191.
  93. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 192.
  94. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 193-198.
  95. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 194.
  96. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 202.
  97. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 204-205.
  98. ^ a b c Kragh 2013, p. 205.
  99. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 208.
  100. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 209-210.
  101. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 210-211.
  102. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 211.
  103. ^ Kragh 2013, pp. 212-213
  104. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 213.
  105. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 221.
  106. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 223.
  107. ^ Kragh 2013, p. 224.
  108. ^ Ulrich Timme Kragh (editor), The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners: The Buddhist Yogācārabhūmi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India, East Asia, and Tibet, Volume 1 Harvard University, Department of South Asian studies, 2013, p. 52.
  109. ^ Ulrich Timme Kragh (editor), The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners: The Buddhist Yogācārabhūmi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India, East Asia, and Tibet, Volume 1 Harvard University, Department of South Asian studies, 2013, p. 30.

Bibliography

  • Asanga (2016). The Bodhisattva Path to Unsurpassed Enlightenment: A Complete Translation of the Bodhisattvabhūmi. Shambhala Publications. ISBN 978-0-8348-4020-1.
  • Kragh, Ulrich Timme, ed. (2013). The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners: The Buddhist Yogacarabhumi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India, East Asia, and Tibet, Harvard Oriental Series (Book 75). Harvard University. ISBN 978-0674725430.

External links

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  • Summary of the Yogācārabhūmi-śāstra, Charles Muller and Dan Lusthaus
  • Yogācārabhūmi Database (Complete marked-up Chinese text with much of the available Sanskrit and some Tibetan)

yogācārabhūmi, Śāstra, sanskrit, treatise, foundation, yoga, practitioners, large, influential, doctrinal, compendium, associated, with, sanskritic, mahāyāna, buddhism, particularly, yogācāra, according, ulrich, timme, kragh, massive, treatise, that, brings, t. The Yogacarabhumi Sastra YBh Sanskrit Treatise on the Foundation for Yoga Practitioners is a large and influential doctrinal compendium associated with Sanskritic Mahayana Buddhism particularly Yogacara 1 According to Ulrich Timme Kragh it is a massive treatise that brings together a wealth of material stemming from Mainstream as well as Mahayana Buddhism 2 Contents 1 History 2 Overview of the Main Section 2 1 1 Pancavijnanakayasamprayukta Bhumiḥ 2 2 2 Manobhumi 2 3 3 Savitarkasavicaradibhumi 2 4 4 Samahita Bhumiḥ 2 5 5 Asamahita Bhumiḥ 2 6 6 Sacittika Acittika Bhumiḥ 2 7 7 Srutamayi Bhumiḥ 2 8 8 Cintamayi Bhumiḥ 2 9 9 Bhavanamayi Bhumiḥ 2 10 10 Sravakabhumi 2 10 1 Yogasthana 1 2 10 2 Yogasthana 2 2 10 3 Yogasthana 3 2 10 4 Yogasthana 4 2 11 11 Pratyekabuddhabhumi 2 12 12 Bodhisattvabhumi 2 12 1 Yogasthana 1 2 12 2 Yogasthana 2 2 12 3 Yogasthana 3 2 13 13 Sopadhika Bhumiḥ 2 14 14 Nirupadhika Bhumiḥ 3 Supplementary Section 4 References 4 1 Bibliography 5 External linksHistory EditThe Yogacarabhumi is generally associated with the Indian Yogacara school because it contains certain unique Yogacara doctrines like the eight consciousnesses and the alaya vijnana storehouse or foundational consciousness According to Ulrich Timme Kragh its overall objective seems to be to present a coherent structure of Buddhist yoga practice with the Mahayana path of the bodhisattva placed at the pinnacle of the system but substantial parts also deal with non Mahayana mainstream practices 1 The text also shows strong affinity to the Abhidharma works of the Mainstream Buddhist Sarvastivada school adopting many of its technical terminology and classifications of phenomena dharmas 3 While it likely contains earlier materials the YBh is thought to have reached its final redaction in the fourth century CE 4 Traditional sources name either the Indian thinker Asaṅga ca 300 350 or the bodhisattva Maitreya as author but most modern scholars hold that it is a composite text with different chronological textual layers and various authors though this does not rule out the possibility that Asaṅga was among them 5 6 According to scholars such as Changhwan Park and Robert Kritzer the YBh may have subtly influenced other North Indian Buddhist works such as the Abhidharmakosa and the works of the Sautrantika school 2 The YBh also exherted a strong influence on the later works of the Yogacara Vijnanavada school such as the Mahayanasutralaṃkara the Abhidharma samuccaya and the Mahayanasaṃgraha 7 Finally the YBh also exherted a clear influence on the tantric tradition of Indian Buddhism of the sixth to fourteenth centuries and the works of exegetes like Ratnakarasanti and the YBh is itself aware of the use of mantras and subjugation rituals that would become common to the tantric tradition 8 The YBh was studied and transmitted in East Asian Buddhist and Tibetan Buddhist translations In China it was the work of Xuanzang 玄奘 602 664 that introduced the YBh in full 9 It caused many debates particularly around the notion that certain beings did not have the gotra or spiritual disposition to attain awakening 10 By the end of the Sui dynasty 589 618 Buddhism within China had developed many distinct schools and traditions In the words of Dan Lusthaus Xuanzang came to the conclusion that the many disputes and interpretational conflicts permeating Chinese Buddhism were the result of the unavailability of crucial texts in Chinese translation In particular he Xuanzang thought that a complete version of the Yogacarabhumi sastra Yuqielun 瑜伽論 an encyclopedic description of the stages of the Yogacara path to Buddhahood written by Asaṅga would resolve all the conflicts In the sixth century an Indian missionary named Paramartha another major translator had made a partial translation of it Xuanzang resolved to procure the full text in India and introduce it to China 11 The YBh was translated into Tibetan in the ninth century at Samye by Ye shes sde and Cog ro Klu i rgyal mtshan working with the Indian paṇḍitas Prajnavarman Surendrabodhi and Jinamitra 12 The YBh remained influential in these traditions for example it is a major source of meditation instruction for Tsongkhapa s Lamrimchenmo however perhaps because of size and complexity it was eventually abandoned in monastic seminaries 13 Besides the Chinese and Tibetan translations which survive in full at least 50 of the text survives in nine extant Sanskrit fragments 14 A translation project is currently underway to translate the entirety of Xuanzang s version into English It is being carried out by the Bukkyō Dendō Kyōkai society and the Numata Center for Buddhist Translation and Research 15 A subsection of the work the Bodhisattva bhumi was translated into English by Artemus Engle and is part of the Tsadra series published by Shambhala Publications Overview of the Main Section EditThe complete YBh is often divided into the Basic Section and the Supplementary Section The first section which is the largest 49 9 of the work is the main stages division or the basic section Skt Maulyo Bhumayaḥ Ch 本地分 Ben di fen Tib Sa i dngos gzhi and contains fourteen books that describe the successive seventeen levels bhumi which cover the entire range of mental and spiritual stages of practice for the Mahayana bodhisattva 16 17 However according to Ulrich Timme Kragh in the present context the word bhumi appears in many cases to imply a foundation in the sense of a field of knowledge that the Yogacara acolyte ought to master in order to be successful in his or her yoga practice 18 Most of the Basic Section which includes such seminal works as the Bodhisattva bhumi and the Sravaka bhumi survives in Sanskrit but little survives from the other parts The following list is based on the Chinese arrangement which seems to be closer to the original order The fourteen books of this section are 19 1 Pancavijnanakayasamprayukta Bhumiḥ Edit The Foundation on the Fivefold Group of Empirical Consciousness provides a phenomenological analysis of the five sensory consciousnesses the visual auditory olfactory gustatory and tactile forms of consciousness in terms of five points their bases asraya nature svabhava foci alambana accompanying mental states sahaya and functioning karman 20 Sense perception is said to have both material basis the physical sense faculty and a mental basis the alayavijnana The mental basis is the latent consciousness which is the holder of all the seeds for the mind and mental states sarva bijaka the appropriator of the corporeal basis i e the body asrayopadatṛ and belonging to the category of karmic maturation vipaka saṃgṛhita which refers to the fact that it is morally neutral 20 2 Manobhumi Edit The Foundation on Cognition discusses thought consciousness or reflexive consciousness manas that arises subsequent to the five sensory perceptions in terms of the same five points outlined above It also explains citta manas vijnana the alayavijnana and the afflictive cognition kliṣṭaṃ manaḥ using the schema of the eight consciousness This book also explains the 51 mental factors caittasika dharmaḥ agreeing with the arrangement that is also seen in the first chapter of Asaṅga s Abhidharmasamuccaya 21 An explanation of the functioning or operation karman of cognition is also given which includes an extensive overview of death and rebirth as well as an exposition of Buddhist cosmology and 24 typologies which discuss many modes of existence 22 The rest of the book discusses various classifications of dharmas phenomena the first of which divides phenomena into physical rupasamudaya mental cittacaitasikakalapa and unconditioned asaṃskṛta 23 This exposition rejects the Abhidharma theory of atoms paramaṇu and instead posits that the seeds bija causal potential for physical matter are in the mind stream which suggests that matter emerges from the mental 23 The second group of classifications relates to causality and explains time adhvan arising jati elapsing jara enduring sthiti impermanence anityata and four types of causal conditions pratyaya The third group is an ethical classification of phenomena as being either beneficial kusala or not akusala or indeterminate avyakṛta The fourth classification includes the twelve constituents of perception dhatu 24 3 Savitarkasavicaradibhumi Edit This book discusses three different foundations having to do with vitarka discernment and vicara discursiveness 1 the foundation which includes both 2 the foundation with only discursiveness and 3 the foundation that has neither of these 25 According to Ulrich Timme Kragh discernment is said to be the cognitive operation that is responsible for ascertaining what is perceived by the senses by initially labeling it with a name while discursiveness is explained as being the subsequent conceptual operation of deciding whether the perceived sense object is desirable and what course of action one might want to take in relation to it 26 Because these two cognitive factors play a crucial role in samsaric bondage and in meditative concentration samadhi which is the pacification of these two factors they are the focus of an extensive analysis in this book This analysis is divided into five sections 27 A description of the three realms in saṃsara the desire realm kamadhatu the form realm rupadhatu and the realm of incorporeality arupyadhatu A description of the various defining characteristics lakṣaṇa of discernment and discursiveness A description of the associated correct observation yonisomanaskara which is a mental outlook inclined to practice generosity and uphold a good moral 28 A description of the associated incorrect observation ayonisomanaskara which consist of sixteen types of mistaken views and beliefs such as eternalism materialism belief in a Creator God belief in the caste superiority of brahmins and belief in animal sacrifice 29 A description of the defilements saṃklesa which are the emotive and rational states through which sentient beings misperceive reality e g desire hatred and ignorance These are presented as subdivided into different categories a total of 128 types of defilement are outlined This section also explains defilement in terms of karma and in terms of the defilement of rebirth and dependent origination pratityasamutpada 30 4 Samahita Bhumiḥ Edit This book is titled The Foundation on Meditative Immersion and attempts to provide a coherent and exhaustive presentation of meditation Large parts of this book make use of the canonical sutras of conservative Buddhism i e non Mahayana 31 The first section of this book gives a general overview of meditation using four terms meditation dhyana liberation vimokṣa meditative attainment samapatti and samadhi 32 The second section of this book provides an extensive presentation of meditation dhyana First five positive states to be cultivated and five negative states to be abandoned are explained Then the five hindrances nivaraṇa are explained in detail This is followed by a thorough explanation of each aspect aṅga of the four absorptions catvari dhyanani Also various related terms from the scriptures are discussed 33 The third section provides a classification of the various types of meditation these types are either divided into different forms of observation manasikara or classified according to the various foci alambana on which one concentrates which are called the images nimitta 34 Forty types of meditative observation are listed and explained in detail in this section Meditative images are presented in terms of four aspects 1 the image as the meditative focus alambananimitta 2 the image as the basis for meditation nidananimitta 3 the images that are to be abandoned parivarjaniyaṃ nimittaṃ and 4 the images that are to be relied upon pratiniṣevaṇiyaṃ nimittaṃ The images to be abandoned are dimness laya restlessness auddhatya distraction vikṣepa and attachment saṅga A further 32 meditative images are also enumerated in this section as well as how to enter the four meditative absorptions 35 The fourth section is a summary of how meditation is explained in the sutras The topics of the meditative liberations vimokṣa and the various types of samadhi are outlined such as the emptiness sunyata wishlessness apraṇihita and imagelessness animitta as well as samadhi with and without vitarka vicara 36 5 Asamahita Bhumiḥ Edit This book The Foundation on Being Without Meditative Absorption lists 12 states that remain devoid of meditative absorption such as a mind that is engaged in the realm of sensual desire kamavacara or the mind of a beginner meditator that suffers from distraction vikṣepa 37 6 Sacittika Acittika Bhumiḥ Edit This book The Foundation on Having Mentation and Being Without Mentation examines the notion of mind or mentation citta in relation to meditation and other doctrines and discusses different states that are with or without citta States without citta include the meditative attainment of cessation nirodhasamapatti and nirvaṇa which is a state in which all mentation ceases even the latent consciousness alayavijnana 38 7 Srutamayi Bhumiḥ Edit The Foundation on What is Derived from Listening focuses on various issues dealing with learning listening to and memorizing Buddhist spiritual knowledge adhyatmavidya Listening is related to processes of listening to religious discourses memorizing and reciting scriptures and recollecting various points of doctrine all of which result in knowledge of the Buddhist teachings 39 The book contains an outline of various basic Buddhist concepts in different sets or groupings similar to Abhidharma lists This book also contains outlines of other forms of knowledge such as the arts of healing cikitsa logical reasoning hetuvidya and linguistic knowledge sabdavidya 39 8 Cintamayi Bhumiḥ Edit The Foundation on What is Derived from Understanding deals with understanding cinta which refers to when the practitioner based on his or her studies of the teachings arrives at a singular view or philosophical outlook of reality along with knowing the religious path that leads to the eradication of misconceptions of reality and the inner realization of this view 40 This presentation is divided into three sections The first section explains how one internalizes what one has heard or studied The practitioner is supposed to contemplate and analyze the meaning of what they have learned in solitude The second section provides an analysis of what is to be known jneyapravicaya which is divided into what exists and what does not exist What exists is analyzed by various categories such as their specific characteristics svalakṣaṇa general characteristics samanyalakṣaṇa and causal characteristics hetulakṣaṇa 40 The book also presents a second analysis of fivefold existence astita and fivefold non existence which is more closely connected with the Yogacara Vijnanavada doctrine of the three natures trisvabhava and the three absences of intrinsic nature triniḥsvabhavata The fivefold existences are 41 being existent in the sense of the perfectly accomplished character pariniṣpannalakṣaṇa being existent in the sense of the dependent character paratantralakṣaṇa being existent in the sense of the imagined character parikalpitalakṣaṇa being existent in the sense of a specific character viṣesalakṣaṇa being existent as something having an inexpressible character avaktavyalakṣaṇa The corresponding non existences are 41 lacking the character of highest reality paramarthalakṣaṇa lacking the character of being independent svatantralakṣaṇa entirely lacking any character of its own sarveṇa sarvaṃ svalakṣaṇa lacking a specific character aviseṣalakṣaṇa lacking an expressible character vaktavyalakṣaṇa The third section of this book the analysis of the teachings dharmapravicaya consists of three passages of selected canonical and paracanonical verses accompanied by a prose commentary 41 Among the key topics discussed here are the latent consciousness alayavijnana and the three kinds of religious training sikṣa Many passages from the Udanavarga are quoted which according to Schmithausen shows that the canon used by the compilers of this text belongs to the Mulasarvastivada sect 42 9 Bhavanamayi Bhumiḥ Edit The Foundation on What is Derived from Meditative Cultivation discusses meditative cultivation bhavana in terms of its basis conditions the practice of yoga and its results First the right circumstances needed to encounter the teachings and practice them are explained which include being reborn as a suitable sentient being being born in the right place and so on 43 Then an explanation of how to listen to the true teaching is given mainly one must listen without disdain distraction or faintheartedness This leads the practitioner to trust that nirvaṇa is a real and worthy goal and thus they turn their mind towards this as their ultimate aim 44 The book then discusses the conditions needed for achieving meditative insight vipasyana and tranquility samatha The initial necessary circumstance leading to insight is said to be reliance on a spiritual friend sanmitra while tranquility is said to require the perfection of discipline silasampatti 44 The process towards spiritual realization is said to progress through the practice of ethical discipline and associating with a spiritual mentor these two reinforce each other and lead to the study and internalization of the teachings which give rise to a sense of renunciation of everything worldly and a yearning for realization The spiritual seeker then applies all the remedies against the afflictions and achieves complete mental purity 44 After the inner and outer causes for spiritual development have been explained this section then discusses the actual practice of meditative cultivation This is explained through a list of ten types of remedies or antidotes pratipakṣa applied to counter the numerous afflictions and adverse inclinations vipakṣa that are also explained here The ten meditative antidotes are 45 contemplating of the notion of unattractiveness asubhasaṃjna contemplating impermanence anityasaṃjna contemplating the suffering found in what is impermanent anitye duḥkhasaṃjna contemplating selflessness with regard to what entails suffering duḥkhe anatmasaṃjna fostering an attitude of indifference to food ahare pratikulasaṃjna fostering an attitude of disinterest in anything worldly sarvaloke anabhiratisaṃjna meditating on images of light alokasaṃjna fostering an attitude of detachment viragasaṃjna contemplating cessation nirodhasaṃjna contemplating death maraṇasaṃjna Following this presentation the book discusses practical advice related to the attainment of meditative immersion samadhilabha covering topics such as living with others finding and learning from a teacher material affairs one s environment sleep and eating patterns practicing asceticism etc 46 Then the fulfillment of meditative immersion samadhiparipuri is discussed which refers to the process in which a meditator goes deeper into samadhi and achieves mastery of meditation experiencing five stages of fruition 47 10 Sravakabhumi Edit The Foundation on the Hearer This book focuses on practices associated with hearers or disciples sravaka Lambert Schmithausen Noritoshi Aramaki Florin Deleanu and Alex Wayman all hold that this is the oldest layer of the YBh 48 The Sravakabhumi is divided into four sections called yogasthanas yogic foundations or topics and is the second largest book of the YBh Yogasthana 1 Edit The first subdivision of the first yogasthana is called the Gotrabhumi and it discusses in depth how different practitioners have different spiritual dispositions gotra which is explained as a mental potential or capacity which is like a seed bija dharma for spiritual achievement found in the person since beginningless time 49 This predisposition is at first hidden but if a person encounters the right causes and conditions they will reach nirvaṇa This section also discusses the qualities of persons that are not predisposed for awakening which are persons that lack the qualities needed to attain nirvaṇa 50 The different types of predisposed persons are also discussed The second subdivision is called the Avatarabhumi and it focuses on how different types of persons enter avatara into the path as well as the characteristics of these different types of persons that have entered the path avatirṇaḥ pudgalaḥ 51 The third foundation of the first yogasthana is The Foundation of Going Forth naiṣkramyabhumi Going forth is a term which implies the abandonment of the household life and becoming a monastic but can also generally refer to entering the spiritual life 52 This foundation could technically be seen as covering the rest of the entire Sravakabhumi and covers the entire path of practice The path is divided into two branches the mundane laukikaḥ margaḥ and supramundane lokottaraḥ margaḥ 52 In following the mundane path practitioners realize that the realm of sense desire is brutish and coarse and see that the absorption and rapture of the first dhyana is superior and serene In practicing this dhyana they achieve detachment from sense desire They then realize that this meditation is also coarse and progress to the second dhyana and so on until they reach the fourth dhyana and beyond into the four immaterial attainments 52 The supramundane path meanwhile entails finding a genuine teacher gaining knowledge of Dharma and realizing the four noble truths for oneself through vipasyana meditation they completely transcend saṃsara 53 The rest of this text discusses the 13 requisites sambhara needed for journeying along these paths 54 The first requisite is a human rebirth in a place and condition that is opportune for practicing the Dharma The second is the fact that a Buddha has appeared in the world has taught the Dharma and that this has been successfully transmitted down to the present The third is to have a beneficial aspiration for practicing the Dharma kusalo dharmacchanda The fourth requisite is the restraint of discipline silasaṃvara which refers to keeping the ethical pratimokṣa rules The fifth requisite is sense restraint indriya saṃvara which means to keep the doors of the senses guarded maintaining a protective awareness arakṣitasmṛti and a constantly watchful awareness nipakasmṛti This practice requires that one carefully observes the process of sense perception to avoid adopting confused or harmful thinking that leads to the defilements such as thinking that what is unattractive is attractive The sixth requisite is the right amount of food intake bhojane matra jnata It is eating with careful consideration only for the sake of a healthy body not pleasure company or bodily beauty The seventh requisite is to practice staying awake jagarikayoga in the evening first part of the night after sunset and in the early morning last part of the night before sunrise This is accomplished by taking a walk and through the visualization of a mass of light The eighth requisite is to move about attentively saṃprajanadviharita during all of one s daily activities and in all postures The ninth requisite is to find a proper spiritual teacher kalyaṇamitra the right qualities of a good teacher are then outlined including pure discipline knowing much being compassionate etc The tenth requisite is to listen to the true Dharma and understand it saddharmasravaṇacintana This section explains the twelve branches of the Buddha s Dharma and the threefold division of Sutra Vinaya and Abhidharma The eleventh requisite is to be free from obstacles anantaraya This section outlines the many different kinds of obstacles that block one s practice The twelfth requisite is relinquishment tyaga defined as giving items that are beyond reproach as gifts The thirteenth requisite is to possess the ornaments of a renunciant sramaṇalaṃkara which is a list of seventeen qualities including faith sraddha honesty asatha intelligence prajna asceticism and patience kṣama Yogasthana 2 Edit The second section discusses 28 different personality types and also various ways of classifying spiritual practitioners An example of one such classification is that of persons of different temperaments caritaprabheda These are the temperament of desire and attachment ragacaritaḥ the temperament of dislike and hatred dveṣacaritaḥ the temperament of deludedness and stupidity mohacaritaḥ the temperament of pride and self conceit manacarita the temperament of intellectuality vitarkacarita and the temperament with equal amounts of each afflictive state samabhagacarita 55 Following this exposition the various meditative foci alambana are explained It is in this section that concrete meditation techniques appear in this treatise These meditations are divided into four kinds I general types of foci II foci purifying the practitioner s temperament III foci for developing expertise and IV foci purifying the afflictions 56 There are four types of general foci vyapyalambanam 56 The conceptual image savikalpaṃ pratibimbam used in insight meditation vipasyana A meditator chooses a doctrinal topic such as the four noble truths dependent arising or the aggregrates and analyzes it conceptually while resting in meditation until a realization emerges The non conceptual image nirvikalpaṃ pratibimbam used in tranquility meditation samatha The mind is brought to rest on the object without analysis in nine steps called the nine aspects of resting the mind navakara cittasthitiḥ The entirety of things vastuparyantata This is to concentrate on the five aggregates skandha the eighteen constituents of perception dhatu or the twelve perceptual domains ayatana concerning their causality function or characteristics The fourth type of general foci is the perfection of the aim of meditation karyapariniṣpatti where the meditative image is transcended one reaches the dhyanas and attains the vision of non conceptual direct knowledge nirvikalpam pratyakṣaṃ jnana darsanam The foci for purifying the practitioner s temperament caritavisodhanam alambanam contains extensive explanations of five contemplative objects 57 The person with a temperament of desire is assigned various meditations on unattractiveness asubha and charnel ground contemplation maraṇasati This section also teaches meditation on the unattractiveness of the mental afflictions and on the unattractiveness of the impermanence of the five aggregates The person with a temperament of dislike and hatred is assigned the meditation on friendliness maitri The meditation consists of wishing happiness for one s friends enemies and neutral persons until one is able to rest in an expansive and unlimited absorption state that wishes well for all This method is then applies to meditation on compassion karuṇa and sympathetic rejoicing mudita The person with a temperament of deludedness and stupidity is assigned the meditation on causality and dependent arising idaṃpratyayatapratitya samutpada The person with a temperament of pride and conceit is assigned the meditation on the division of the constituents dhatuprabheda i e the six elements of earth water fire air space and consciousness The person with an intellectual temperament is assigned the various meditations on breathing mindfulness anapanasmṛti Five different techniques are presented 1 counting the breath 2 observing how each of the five aggregates is involved in the breathing process 3 observing dependent arising through the breath 4 observing the four noble truths 5 the exercise of the sixteen aspects ṣoḍasakara paricaya of anapanasmṛti The third type of foci which are also termed the foci for developing expertise kausalyalambana refers to the following 58 Expertise in the aggregates skandhakausalya is cultivated by contemplating the distinct nature of each aggregate and understanding none of them as a permanent unchanging phenomenon Expertise in the constituents of perception dhatukausalya is cultivated by observing how each dhatu arises unfolds and becomes cognizant Expertise in the domains of perception ayatana kausalya is cultivated by contemplating how the different conditions in each domain give rise to each type of consciousness Expertise in dependent arising pratityasamutpadakausalya is cultivated as follows the meditator first analyzes how each link serves as a condition for the subsequent link to arise and then understands that the causality involved in this process requires each phenomenon to be impermanent Since they are impermanent they also involve suffering and are without any self 59 Expertise in what constitutes a basis and what does not constitute a basis for beneficial action and desirable karmic results sthanasthanakausalya is cultivated by meditating on how negative and beneficial actions have different kinds of karmic results The fourth meditative object is the foci purifying the afflictions klesavisodhanaṃ alambanam This is related to the mundane and supramundane paths In the mundane path meditation focuses on seeing the realm of existence one is currently on e g realm of desire as coarse while the realm which is immediately above i e first dhyana is seen as peaceful Then once one has attained the higher realm in meditation one continues this process i e one sees the first dhyana as coarse and the second dhyana as peaceful and so on 59 On the supramundane path the foci for meditation are the four noble truths 59 After these presentations there follows an exposition on how to give instructions to a student and another section on the three trainings superior discipline superior meditative mind and superior insight Then there follows a segment which outlines ten factors that go along with the training sikṣanulomika dharmaḥ which are remedies to ten factors that go against the dharma These are 60 the contemplation of unattractiveness asubhasaṃjna counters sexual attachment the contemplation of impermanence anityasaṃjna remedies belief in a self the contemplation of suffering with regard to what is impermanent anitye duḥkhasaṃjna overcomes laziness and apathy the contemplation of no self in suffering duḥkhe natmasaṃjna opposes belief in a self the contemplation of the un attractiveness of food ahare pratikulasaṃjna counters desire for eating the contemplation of the lack of real happiness anywhere in the world sarvaloke nabhiratisaṃjna works against craving for listening to chatter about the world the visualization of light alokasaṃjna remedies states that cloud or confuse the mind such as doubt unclarity tiredness sleepiness and so forth the contemplation of non attachment viragasaṃjna works against attachment to the bliss experienced in higher states of meditation the contemplation of cessation nirodhasaṃjna overcomes desire for the meditative absorption the contemplation of death maraṇasaṃjna remedies the misery that arises from wishing and hoping for life The second Yogasthana also gives a general definition of yoga as spiritual practice which is said to have four aspects 1 faith sraddha 2 aspiration chandas 3 perseverance virya and 4 spiritual methods upaya 61 Another segment of the second Yogasthana explains four levels of mental observation engagement or attention manaskara as it relates to the strength and constancy of one s mental focus on the object of meditation These four levels are 61 forceful application of the mind towards the meditative object balavahana interrupted application sacchidravahana uninterrupted application nischidravahana effortless application anabhogavahana Other topics are also outlined in the second Yogasthana including the nine types of ascertainment adhimokṣa of the meditative focus the four aims of yoga yoga karaṇiya the different kinds of yoga practitioners yogacara the cultivation of notions saṃjna bhavana the thirty seven factors of Awakening saptatriṃsad bodhipakṣya dharmaḥ and the four stages of contemplative fruition bhavanaphala 62 Yogasthana 3 Edit The third section discusses various practical issues on the path how one approaches a teacher and how a teacher assesses a student s abilities and predispositions 63 Then five topics which a teacher instructions their student are discussed 63 How to guard and accumulate the requisites needed for meditation samadhisaṃbhararakṣopacaya How to practice in solitary retreat pravivekya The best location is in the wilderness but it should also be safe and it should be easy to obtain provisions The ideal retreat is done in solitude How to achieve one pointedness of mind cittai kagrata Samadhi is defined in this section as a stream of mind characterized by continuous irreproachable bliss whose focus is an appropriate object of constant mindfulness 64 This section also discusses the practice of tranquility samatha and meditative insight vipasyana Tranquility is discussed through the nine aspects of resting the mind navakara cittasthitiḥ and the four levels of mental observation Vipasyana is explained through four supports for insight and three gates 65 How to purify the hindrances avaraṇavisuddhi This is done by 1 recognizing the nature svabhava of the hindrances 2 knowing the circumstances nidana under which they arise 3 realizing the drawbacks adinava that they cause and 4 employing the right remedies pratipakṣa 66 How to cultivate meditative observation manaskarabhavana four progressive stages are outlined The first is the observation that toughens the mind which leads to disenchantment with saṃsara Then one practices the observation that moistens the mind through recollecting the qualities of the three jewels Thirdly one practices the observation that produces inner comfort relaxation and ease prasrabdhi janako through resting in samatha and vipasyana meditation Finally one reaches the observation that perfects knowledge and the view by first perfecting the practice of samatha and thereupon repeatedly penetrating into the nature of phenomena with the insight of vipasyana The goal of this is a mind that has become one pointed gentle and peaceful and the various types of negative temperaments no longer arise in the circumstances where they typically would be felt 67 Yogasthana 4 Edit The fourth section discusses the mundane and supramundane paths in detail The mundane path deals with abandoning the sensual realm and practicing the meditative absorptions dhyanas which lead to rebirth in higher realms but does not lead to awakening 67 The various meditative observations that lead to the practice of the dhyanas is taught in this section and the characteristics of the eight dhyanas are analyzed in detail 68 Other meditative attainments are also discussed such as the meditative attainment of non ideation asaṃjnisamapatti and the meditative attainment of cessation nirodhasamapatti The results of these practices are also presented including the five types of extrasensory knowledge pancabhijna and rebirth in the realm of non sensual corporeality rupadhatu and the realm of incorporeality arupyadhatu 69 Turning to the supramundane path lokottaraḥ margaḥ practicing this path requires fully understanding the four noble truths and its sixteen characteristics through meditative observation These sixteen characteristics are explained in detail they are 70 The four characteristics of the truth of suffering are impermanence anityakara suffering duḥkhakara emptiness sunyakara and selflessness anatmakara The four characteristics of the origin of suffering are cause hetu origination samudaya production prabhava and condition pratyaya The characteristics the end of suffering are cessation nirodha peace santa excellence praṇita and escape niḥsaraṇa The characteristics of the path to the end of suffering are being the path marga the method nyaya the practice pratipatti and what leads out of suffering nairyaṇika This path leads to nirvana as an arhat through the ultimate meditation that gains insight into the four noble truths called the vajra like meditation vajropamaḥ samadhi 71 11 Pratyekabuddhabhumi Edit This short section titled The Foundation on the Solitary Buddha outlines the disposition path and practices of the pratyekabuddha Kragh notes that the pratyekabuddha avoids crowds and takes pleasure in solitude exhibits little compassion and is not inclined to teach others and is of mediocre aptitude and has a temperament of pride 72 12 Bodhisattvabhumi Edit The Foundation on the Mahayana Bodhisattva which is the longest book in the basic section is divided into three yogasthanas and ten topics 73 the basis for being a bodhisattva adhara the characteristics of a bodhisattva liṅga the classes of bodhisattvas pakṣa the bodhisattva s exalted conviction adhyasaya the dwellings of a bodhisattva s practice vihara the bodhisattva s rebirths upapatti how bodhisattvas lead sentient beings to perfection parigraha the spiritual levels bhumi the bodhisattva s practices carya the ascension to Buddhahood pratiṣṭha Yogasthana 1 Edit Yogasthana one is titled the section on the basis adharayogasthana because it deals with the basis adhara for becoming a bodhisattva topic 1 There are three main aspects of the basis of a bodhisattva The first is an inborn unique predisposition svagotra for the bodhisattva path those who lack this are said to be unable to reach Buddhahood The second is the basis of initially engendering the resolve to reach Buddhahood prathamas cittotpadaḥ which refers to arousing bodhicitta practicing the perfections for the benefit of oneself and others and so forth The third is the basis of practicing all the factors leading to Awakening sarve bodhipakṣya dharmaḥ 74 Those who will become Buddhas are said to have a particular original nature prakṛti which is like a seed bija that predisposes them to this path This nature is accomplished through the cultivation of good qualities 75 These persons are seen as vastly superior to sravakas pratyekabuddhas and all ordinary sentient beings because they have the ability to remove cognitive hindrances jneyavaraṇa and afflictive hindrances klesavaraṇa while other beings are only able to remove afflictive hindrance Also bodhisattvas practice for the good and well being of all sentient beings while practitioners of other paths only practice for their own good 76 These persons are generally caring compassionate harmless helpful love solitude and have a natural capacity for understanding the Buddhadharma 76 The bodhisattva s resolve to attain Buddhahood is described in detail Its conditions causes aspects qualities and so forth are outlined 77 The book explains how a bodhisattva engenders this wish and how they must practice which is divided into seven undertakings 77 Training for their own benefit Training for the benefit of others which must be balanced with the first undertaking Training in realizing the nature of reality tattvartha which in an ultimate sense refers to the insubstantiality of phenomena dharmanairatmya and that all phenomena are without the duality advaya of existence bhava and non existence abhava 78 Developing five types of spiritual power prabhava such as different forms of clairvoyance abhijnaprabhava and the power of the six perfections 79 Developing sentient beings which depends on their innate dispositions for different paths and so on Developing the qualities of a Buddha in themselves Highest and complete Awakening anuttara samyaksaṃbodhiḥ which is only achieved through the removal of the afflictive hindrances and the cognitive hindrances Yogasthana one also expounds on the six perfections ṣaṭparamita at length they are The perfection of generosity danaparamita Dana s nature is that the bodhisattva gives to others whatever they need without attachment self interest or partiality This includes material things and the bodhisattva s own body as well as teaching Dharma but not weapons or things that cause harm 80 The perfection of discipline silaparamita One practices ethical discipline sila by receiving keeping and restoring ethical vows saṃvara properly This includes both vows for householders and monastics 81 It also includes doing all kinds of beneficial actions such as studying the Dharma teaching others caring for the sick giving material goods praising the good qualities of others protecting others from danger and leading others away from negative actions 82 The procedure for taking the bodhisattva vow is explained as well as the various transgressions of this vow The four major transgressions are 1 to belittle others and exalt oneself in hope of gain 2 to refuse to help suffering beings by not giving alms or not sharing the Dharma to those who ask for it 3 to harm others and hold a grudge against others 4 to disparage the bodhisattva teachings 83 The perfection of endurance kṣantiparamita Kṣanti refers to patience endurance and forbearance Kragh states that this must be done with an attitude free from any hope of reward must be purely motivated by compassion and must fully forgive the wrongdoing in its entirety 84 There are three main modes of endurance 1 patiently bearing wrongdoings inflicted by others 2 accepting suffering hardships and distress and 3 the endurance of resolving to comprehend the Dharma through patient perseverance 84 A bodhisattva does this through different means such as reflecting that suffering is caused by past karma contemplating how people who harm us now may have been our relatives in a past life and he contemplation of impermanence 85 The perfection of drive or enthusiasm viryaparamita Virya is a strong mental energy or force which aims at gathering good qualities and doing good activities There are three types 1 the armor like drive which willingly accepts working to help others for eons on end 2 the drive for gathering good qualities i e practicing the paramitas and 3 the drive devoted to acting for the benefit of sentient beings by performing beneficial actions 86 The perfection of meditation dhyanaparamita Dhyana refers to resting the mind cittasthiti so there is one pointedness of mind cittaikagrya This may refer to samatha or vipasyana or to a union of the two 87 It may be done for the sake of happiness in this life for the sake of gaining the bodhisattva qualities special samadhis unknown to other paths and for the sake of helping other sentient beings 87 The perfection of wisdom prajnaparamita This refers to mastering the five fields of knowledge which include mundane knowledge as well as ultimate spiritual knowledge of both the sravaka and bodhisattva baskets such as the four noble truths cause and effect etc 88 Following the exposition of the perfections further sections teach various topics such as how to gather students through giving affectionate speech meaningful activity and having a common aim how to revere the three jewels through various forms of puja how to serve and rely on a qualified spiritual teacher kalyaṇamitra good friend and how to cultivate the four immeasurables apramaṇa 89 Important qualities of a spiritual teacher include being disciplined and pure in conduct intelligent and well educated in the doctrine experienced and realized in meditation compassionate patient and caring being without attachments and having few wants and needs skilled at giving clear teachings and being impartial in teaching others 90 Regarding practicing the four immeasurables apramaṇa this section states that this can be done in three main ways by focusing on sentient beings by focusing on the phenomena dharmas which make up sentient beings or completely without focus or reference analambanani 91 This section also discusses the special kind of compassion that a bodhisattva cultivates namely great compassion mahakaruṇa This kind of compassion is directed towards the suffering of all beings and is cultivated for hundreds of thousands of aeons A bodhisattva with great compassion would do anything to help sentient beings such as give up their life in hundreds of rebirths and endure any torment The cultivation of the four immeasurables is said to lead to instant happiness in this life vast accumulation of merit development of a firm wish to reach Awakening and ability to carry the sufferings of others 92 The following chapters contain an exposition of all the factors leading to Awakening the third main aspect of the basis for becoming a bodhisattva This covers sixteen elements of a bodhisattvas training 93 To have conscience and a sense of embarrassment hrivyapatrapya an inner sense of right and wrong To develop a firm strength dhṛtibaladhanata a steadiness on the path which can control the deluded mind It is developed by enduring suffering recognizing negative behaviors and study To develop tirelessness akhedata in all beneficial undertakings through training in insight and compassion To gain knowledge in the various fields of learning To know the world lokajnata which is to see how saṃsara is an endless and insecure cycle of birth and death and constantly changing circumstances To lean on the four reliances catvari pratisaraṇani These are 1 to rely on the meaning and not on the words 2 to rely on logic and not on the person giving the teaching 3 to rely on scriptures of definitive meaning and not on scriptures of provisional meaning 4 when in doubt to rely on the essential understanding one has achieved oneself and not merely on knowledge one has heard from others 94 Mastering the four analytical knowledges of the Dharma meaning derivative analysis rhetoric Gathering the requisites for Awakening bodhisaṃbhara the requisite of merit puṇyasaṃbhara and the requisite of knowledge jnanasaṃbhara To practice the thirty seven factors of Awakening saptatriṃsad bodhipakṣya dharmaḥ but not to actualize them na cainaṃ sakṣatkaroti To practice calming meditation samatha According to Timme Kragh the practice is essentially the same as that taught in the sravaka path but the bodhisattvaengages in these in a special way bringing in a Mahayana Prajnaparamita understanding 95 The bodhisattva s practice of insight meditation vipasyana which is focused on the ultimate level of the thirty seven factors of Awakening and is preceded by calming meditation The bodhisattva s expertise in the methods upayakau salya The bodhisattva s mastery of retentiveness dharaṇi which refers to the power of memory remembering teachings as well as the power of mantras and formulas To engender bodhisattva aspirations bodhisattva praṇidhana To accomplish three meditative absorptions samadhi emptiness sunyatasamadhi wishlessness apraṇihitaḥ samadhiḥ and imagelessness animittaḥ samadhiḥ The teaching of the four summary statements catvarimani dharmoddanani 1 everything conditioned is impermanent anityaḥ sarvasaṃskaraḥ 2 everything conditioned is suffering duḥkhaḥ sarvasaṃskaraḥ 3 all phenomena are without a permanent self anatmanaḥ sarvadharmaḥ and 4 nirvaṇa is peace saṃtaṃ nirvaṇam The last section of Yogasthana one contains four lists of qualities that advanced bodhisattvas have Yogasthana 2 Edit Yogasthana two titled the section on the subsidiary factors ensuing from the basis adharanudharmayogasthana explains the characteristics liṅga of bodhisattvas mainly compassion affectionate speech courage openhandedness and the ability to unravel deep underlying meanings 96 Furthermore the classes pakṣa of bodhisattvas are explained lay and monastic along with their four main Dharmas or practices good deeds skillfulness and expertise kausalya caring for others paranugraha and dedicatory transfer of merit pariṇamana 97 The monastic bodhisattvas are said to be superior 98 The exalted conviction adhyasaya of a bodhisattva is then explained which refers to their pure motivation and mindset 98 A bodhisattva is said to have tenderness towards sentient beings they are also said to have conviction in the Buddha s teachings derived from faith and analysis Different forms of conviction are then outlined 98 Yogasthana two also sets out thirteen levels or dwellings vihara of accomplishment in the practice of a bodhisattva Yogasthana 3 Edit Yogasthana three the section on the culmination of the basis adharaniṣṭhayogasthana explains general topics six through ten 99 Topic six is the five kinds of rebirths upapatti a bodhisattva undergoes during their journey which are 100 Rebirth pacifying harm itisaṃsamani upapattiḥ A bodhisattva is reborn in a difficult time famine plague etc in order to help others during this time Rebirth assuming a corresponding form tat sabhaganuvartini upapatti A bodhisattva is reborn among beings who harm others such as animals gods demons or heretics and leads them to a good path Rebirth into greatness mahattvopapatti A bodhisattva is born into excellent circumstances and becomes a great person who spiritually benefits others Rebirth with authority adhipatyopapatti A bodhisattva is born into a position of rulership over the world or the gods The bodhisattva s final rebirth in which they become a Buddha Topic seven outlines six ways that bodhisattvas lead parigraha sentient beings to perfection 101 Leading all sentient beings simultaneously sakṛtsarvasattva parigraha Bodhisattvas regard all sentient beings as their partner Leading through authority adhipatyaparigraha through a position such as head of a household or a king Leading an assembly upadanaparigraha which refers to residing over a perfect congregation Guiding for a long time dirghakalikam upadanam is when a bodhisattva must care and guides certain beings slowly and for a long time Guiding for a short time adirghakalikam upadanam is when they guide beings only for a short time Final guiding caramam upadanam refers to caring for individuals who are very advanced Topic eight explains the seven bodhisattva levels bhumis and how they related to the thirteen viharas 102 Topic nine sums up all the bodhisattva practices carya into four main groups 103 The practice of the perfections paramitacarya the six perfections are outlined and four more perfections are also explained The practice of the factors of Awakening bodhipakṣyacarya which refers to the thirty seven factors of Awakening the four investigations and the four complete knowledges of things as they really are The practice of six clairvoyances abhijnacarya The practice of developing sentient beings sattva paripakacarya Finally general topic number ten explains the bodhisattva s ascension pratiṣṭha to Buddhahood along with all the Buddha qualities which are manifested in them 140 exceptional buddha qualities are outlined including the 32 marks and the ten powers of a Tathagata 104 13 Sopadhika Bhumiḥ Edit The Foundation on Having an Existential Substratum discusses the state of the living arhat as well as what it is that forms the remaining layer or basis for continued saṃsaric existence namely the notion of there being an existential substratum upadhi such as the five aggregates and so forth 105 14 Nirupadhika Bhumiḥ Edit The last book the Foundation on Being Without an Existential Substratum explains the state of an arhat who has died and entered parinirvaṇa final nirvana and thus is without a substratum for continued existence 106 This book discusses parinirvaṇa which is said to be complete and eternal extinction and completion nirvṛti 107 Supplementary Section EditThis part is made up of four collections or compendia saṃgrahaṇi she 攝 bsdu ba which supplement the Basic Section 108 Viniscayasaṃgrahaṇi Compendium of Ascertainment This compendium discusses and provides a clarification viniscaya on aspects of the seventeen bhumis from the Basic Section This section also contains a detailed treatment of alayavijnana and at the same time quoting and making use of the Saṃdhinirmocanasutra Thus it is considered a later strata by Schmithausen 48 Vyakhyasaṃgrahaṇi Compendium of Exegesis This is a manual of hermeneutical and exegetical techniques as well as on rhetorical and logical argument hetuvidya Paryayasaṃgrahaṇi Compendium of Related Terms This text defines many of the various strings of quasi synonymical expressions found in the Agamas Vastusaṃgrahaṇi Compendium of Selected Themes Lambert Schmithausen Florin Delenau and Noritoshi Aramaki all hold that this is part of the oldest textual layer 48 It includes The Sutravastusaṃgrahaṇi which summarizes and explains key topics of each sutra contained in the Samyukta agama The Compendium of the Vinaya Vinayavastusaṃgrahaṇi The compendium of Abhidharma lists Matṛkavastusaṃgrahaṇi The Chinese version also contains a Compendium of Abhidharma missing from the Tibetan translation An Indian commentary was also written on the YBh called the Yogacarabhumivyakhya 109 References Edit a b Kragh 2013 pp 16 25 a b Kragh 2013 p 231 Ulrich Timme Kragh editor The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners The Buddhist Yogacarabhumi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India East Asia and Tibet Volume 1 Harvard University Department of South Asian studies 2013 p 45 Ulrich Timme Kragh editor The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners The Buddhist Yogacarabhumi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India East Asia and Tibet Volume 1 Harvard University Department of South Asian studies 2013 p 26 Delhey Martin Yogacarabhumi oxfordbibliographies com LAST MODIFIED 26 JULY 2017 DOI 10 1093 OBO 9780195393521 0248 Ulrich Timme Kragh editor The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners The Buddhist Yogacarabhumi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India East Asia and Tibet Volume 1 Harvard University Department of South Asian studies 2013 pp 40 53 Kragh 2013 p 233 Kragh 2013 pp 235 236 Kragh 2013 p 239 Kragh 2013 p 242 Lusthaus Dan Xuanzang Hsuan tsang undated accessed December 12 2007 Kragh 2013 p 245 Kragh 2013 pp 16 46 239 Kragh 2013 p 47 Kragh 2013 p 251 Lusthaus Dan Muller Charles Summary of the Yogacarabhumi sastra http www acmuller net yogacara outlines YBh summary html Kragh 2013 p 49 Kragh 2013 p 50 Kragh 2013 p 51 a b Kragh 2013 p 60 Kragh 2013 pp 61 62 Kragh 2013 p 63 a b Kragh 2013 p 64 Kragh 2013 p 65 Kragh 2013 pp 71 72 Kragh 2013 p 72 Kragh 2013 p 73 Kragh 2013 p 74 Kragh 2013 p 75 Kragh 2013 pp 76 78 Delhey Martin 2009 Samahita Bhumi Das Kapitel uber die meditative Versenkung im Grundteil der Yogacarabhumi pp 19 22 Kragh 2013 p 80 Kragh 2013 pp 80 81 Kragh 2013 p 81 Kragh 2013 p 82 Kragh 2013 p 83 Kragh 2013 p 84 Timme Kragh 2013 pp 85 86 a b Kragh 2013 p 88 a b Kragh 2013 p 93 a b c Kragh 2013 p 95 Kragh 2013 p 96 Kragh 2013 p 97 a b c Kragh 2013 p 98 Kragh 2013 p 99 Kragh 2013 pp 99 100 Kragh 2013 p 100 a b c Kragh 2013 pp 54 57 Kragh 2013 pp 103 104 Kragh 2013 p 105 Kragh 2013 pp 106 108 a b c Kragh 2013 p 109 Kragh 2013 p 110 Kragh 2013 pp 110 117 Kragh 2013 pp 119 120 a b Kragh 2013 pp 121 122 Kragh 2013 pp 122 125 Kragh 2013 pp 125 126 a b c Kragh 2013 p 126 Kragh 2013 pp 127 128 a b Kragh 2013 p 129 Kragh 2013 pp 129 132 a b Kragh 2013 p 134 Kragh 2013 p 135 Kragh 2013 p 136 Kragh 2013 p 137 a b Kragh 2013 p 138 Kragh 2013 pp 139 140 Kragh 2013 pp 140 142 Kragh 2013 p 144 Kragh 2013 p 145 Kragh 2013 p 146 Kragh 2013 pp 147 148 Kragh 2013 p 148 Kragh 2013 p 149 a b Kragh 2013 p 150 a b Kragh 2013 pp 152 153 Kragh 2013 p 157 Kragh 2013 p 162 Kragh 2013 pp 172 173 Kragh 2013 p 174 Kragh 2013 p 175 Kragh 2013 pp 175 176 a b Kragh 2013 p 178 Kragh 2013 p 179 Kragh 2013 p 181 a b Kragh 2013 p 183 Kragh 2013 pp 185 186 Kragh 2013 pp 186 188 Kragh 2013 pp 189 190 Kragh 2013 p 190 Kragh 2013 p 191 Kragh 2013 p 192 Kragh 2013 pp 193 198 Kragh 2013 p 194 Kragh 2013 p 202 Kragh 2013 pp 204 205 a b c Kragh 2013 p 205 Kragh 2013 p 208 Kragh 2013 pp 209 210 Kragh 2013 pp 210 211 Kragh 2013 p 211 Kragh 2013 pp 212 213 Kragh 2013 p 213 Kragh 2013 p 221 Kragh 2013 p 223 Kragh 2013 p 224 Ulrich Timme Kragh editor The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners The Buddhist Yogacarabhumi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India East Asia and Tibet Volume 1 Harvard University Department of South Asian studies 2013 p 52 Ulrich Timme Kragh editor The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners The Buddhist Yogacarabhumi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India East Asia and Tibet Volume 1 Harvard University Department of South Asian studies 2013 p 30 Bibliography Edit Asanga 2016 The Bodhisattva Path to Unsurpassed Enlightenment A Complete Translation of the Bodhisattvabhumi Shambhala Publications ISBN 978 0 8348 4020 1 Kragh Ulrich Timme ed 2013 The Foundation for Yoga Practitioners The Buddhist Yogacarabhumi Treatise and Its Adaptation in India East Asia and Tibet Harvard Oriental Series Book 75 Harvard University ISBN 978 0674725430 External links Edit Chinese Wikisource has original text related to this article 瑜伽師地論 Digital Dictionary of Buddhism log in with userID guest Summary of the Yogacarabhumi sastra Charles Muller and Dan Lusthaus Chinese Sanskrit Tibetan Terms Yogacarabhumi Yogacarabhumi Database Complete marked up Chinese text with much of the available Sanskrit and some Tibetan Retrieved from https en 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