Inglorious Bodhisattvas: The Path from Ugra to Vimalakīrti
Issue: Vol 33 No. 2 (2014)
Journal: Religious Studies and Theology
Subject Areas: Religious Studies Buddhist Studies Islamic Studies Biblical Studies
Abstract:
Most early Mahāyāna sūtras glorify vīrya—vigor, or manliness —as the most desirable quality of a bodhisattva. But was this always the case? The purpose of this article is to argue that shifting notions of exemplar masculinity parallel the change from the early Mahāyāna, to mature developments of this Buddhist tradition. To prove my point, I will examine four influential early Mahāyāna sūtras: the Ugrapariprcchā, the Aṣṭasāhasrikā, the Śūraṅgamasamādhisūtra, and the Vimalakīrtinirdeśa, to argue that the bodhisattva-path discourse became gradually more assertive and authoritative. Buddha Śākyamuni’s image lost focus, while bodhisattvas’ attitude towards arhats evolved from respectful submission to open humiliation. By now the bodhisattva transformation was complete, an inglorious coup that marked the Mahāyāna take over.
Author: Cristina Atanasiu
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