Vikramashila

Definition

Vikramashila was one of the most significant monastic universities in ancient India, founded in the 8th century by the Indian Buddhist master Atisha. It became a center for the study and dissemination of Mahayana Buddhism and was known for its rigorous academic environment, attracting students from various regions, including Tibet and Central Asia. The university played a key role in the development of Buddhist philosophy and practice, particularly in the context of Mahayana schools.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vikramashila was established around 780 CE during the reign of King Dharmapala of the Pala Empire, who was a patron of Buddhism.
2. The university specialized in various subjects, including philosophy, logic, grammar, and medicine, alongside Buddhist studies.
3. It was famous for its unique curriculum that included training in debate and dialectical methods, emphasizing critical thinking and philosophical discourse.
4. Vikramashila's influence extended beyond India, significantly impacting Tibetan Buddhism as many Tibetan scholars studied there and brought teachings back to Tibet.
5. The university declined in the 12th century due to invasions by Muslim forces, leading to the loss of its intellectual heritage and eventual destruction.

Review Questions

• What were the main contributions of Vikramashila to the development of Mahayana Buddhism?
  • Vikramashila contributed significantly to the development of Mahayana Buddhism through its rigorous academic environment that fostered critical debate and philosophical discourse. It provided a comprehensive education on various aspects of Buddhist teachings, focusing on Mahayana principles like compassion and the Bodhisattva ideal. The university attracted students from across regions, allowing for a rich exchange of ideas that helped shape the future of Mahayana thought.
• Discuss the relationship between Vikramashila and Tibetan Buddhism in terms of knowledge transmission and influence.
  • Vikramashila had a profound impact on Tibetan Buddhism as many Tibetan scholars traveled to this university to study Buddhist philosophy and practices. The teachings learned at Vikramashila were instrumental in shaping Tibetan monastic education and practice. Scholars such as Atisha brought back teachings that not only enriched Tibetan Buddhism but also helped to establish it as a significant tradition within Mahayana Buddhism.
• Evaluate the factors that led to the decline of Vikramashila and its implications for Buddhism in India.
  • The decline of Vikramashila was primarily caused by invasions from Muslim forces in the 12th century, which led to its destruction and the loss of its intellectual resources. This decline marked a significant turning point for Buddhism in India, as it contributed to the overall deterioration of Buddhist institutions during that period. The closure of Vikramashila diminished the scholarly exchange that had been vital for the growth of Buddhist thought, leading to a gradual decline in Buddhist influence in India while paving the way for other religious traditions to emerge.

Related terms

Nalanda:

Another prominent monastic university in ancient India, known for its scholarship and influence on Buddhism, which existed around the same time as Vikramashila.

Atisha: A renowned Indian Buddhist teacher who played a crucial role in the revival of Buddhism in Tibet and was the founder of Vikramashila.

Mahayana Buddhism:

A major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes the Bodhisattva path and the potential for all beings to achieve enlightenment, which was a central focus at Vikramashila.