Pudgalavada

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Pudgalavada is a term used in Buddhist philosophy to refer to a particular school of thought within early Buddhism. The Pudgalavada school is known for its unique doctrine regarding the concept of the pudgala, or "person."

Etymology

The term "Pudgalavada" is derived from the Sanskrit words "pudgala," meaning "person," and "vada," meaning "doctrine" or "teaching." Thus, Pudgalavada can be translated as the "Doctrine of the Person."

Historical Background

The Pudgalavada school emerged during the early centuries of Buddhism, around the 3rd century BCE. It is considered one of the Eighteen Schools of Buddhism that developed after the death of Gautama Buddha. The school is often associated with the Sammitiya sect, which was one of the most prominent sub-sects of Pudgalavada.

Doctrine

The central tenet of Pudgalavada is the belief in the existence of a "person" (pudgala) that is neither identical to nor entirely different from the five skandhas (aggregates) that constitute human existence. This doctrine was controversial because it appeared to contradict the fundamental Buddhist teaching of anatta (non-self), which denies the existence of a permanent, unchanging self.

The Five Skandhas

The five skandhas are:

• Rupa (form)
• Vedana (sensation)
• Sanna (perception)
• Sankhara (mental formations)
• Vinnana (consciousness)

According to Pudgalavada, the pudgala is a real entity that transmigrates from one life to another, carrying the karmic residues of past actions. This view was intended to provide a more coherent explanation of personal continuity and moral responsibility.

Criticism and Decline

The Pudgalavada school faced significant criticism from other Buddhist schools, particularly the Theravada and Sarvastivada traditions. Critics argued that the concept of a pudgala was a form of eternalism and contradicted the core Buddhist teaching of anatta. Despite its initial popularity, the Pudgalavada school gradually declined and eventually disappeared around the 7th century CE.

Legacy

Although the Pudgalavada school no longer exists, its debates and discussions contributed to the development of Buddhist philosophy. The school's unique perspective on the nature of the self and personal identity continues to be a subject of interest for scholars of Buddhist studies.

Related Pages

• Buddhism
• Anatta
• Skandhas
• Theravada
• Sarvastivada
• Eighteen Schools of Buddhism
• Sammitiya