Prajna and Nagarjuna’s Philosophy in Tiantai Buddhism
Long Gu from East China Normal University provides a detailed exploration in the intricate relationship between Prajña and Nagarjuna’s philosophy in the context of Tiantai Buddhism.
The study elucidates how Tiantai Learning draws from a plethora of scriptures, notably Prajna classics like the Great Prajna Sutra and Mahāprajñāpāramitāśāstra, to substantiate its core tenets such as “one mind and three contemplation” and “one mind and three wisdoms.”
Key objectives outlined in the research include reconciling Zhiyi’s reverence for Nagarjuna while categorizing his thoughts as “Shared Teaching,” comparing Prajna and Nagarjuna’s doctrines with Zhiyi’s “Perfect Teaching,” and examining their impact on Tiantai’s interpretation of Tathāgatagarbha.
Long Gu underscores the significance of understanding Prajna and Nagarjuna’s influence on Tiantai Buddhism, elucidating how Zhiyi’s core doctrines were shaped by these philosophical underpinnings.
The report also highlights the broader implications of studying the absorption and interpretation of Prajna and Nagarjuna’s thoughts in Chinese Buddhism, offering insights into their localization and influence on Chinese Buddhist history.
Furthermore, it delves into Zhiyi’s unique approach of synthesizing various Buddhist thoughts under the framework of the “Truth of Perfect Teaching,” shedding light on the ideological essence of Tiantai philosophy.
