Significance of Ashvaghosha
Ashvaghosha is recognized as a significant Buddhist poet and playwright, especially known for his works like 'Saundarananda' and 'Buddhacaritam.' He lived in the early second century C.E. and contributed to kavya literature, recounting the life of the Buddha and exploring Buddhist themes. Ashvaghosha is also noted for his conversion to Sarvastivada Buddhism and his role in the development of epic poetry that intertwines narratives from Buddhist teachings and broader cultural stories.
In German: Ashvaghosha; In Finnish: Ashvaghosha; In Spanish: Ashvaghosha; In Dutch: Asjvagosha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Ashvaghosha'
Ashvaghosha in Buddhism is recognized as a pivotal figure, primarily known for his literary contributions like the 'Buddhacarita' and 'Saundarananda,' which explore Buddha's biography and Buddhist themes while also embodying the Sarvastivada Buddhist tradition.
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) An ancient Indian poet and philosopher known for his works on Buddhism, including the Buddhacarita.[1] (2) An author of a version of the Pen-hing-king which isn鈥檛 the source of quotations from Taou-shih.[2] (3) A musician and poet noted for composing and arranging hymns used in the Buddhist church during I-tsing's visit.[3] (4) An ancient Indian poet and philosopher whose works contributed significantly to early Buddhist literature, including texts translated by Kumarajiva.[4] (5) The author of the Buddhacarita-kavya, a significant text in Buddhist literature.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A Buddhist poet and playwright who authored 'Saundarananda,' a work that offers insights into Nanda's story and other Buddhist themes.[6] (2) An ancient Buddhist scholar credited with compiling teachings on the conditions for murder.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Ashvaghosha'
Ashvaghosha in Hinduism is viewed as a significant Buddhist poet known for his epic poetry, which incorporates narratives from the Bharata, highlighting the cultural exchange and intertextuality between Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) A Buddhist poet who wrote epics and whose works reference stories from the Bharata.[8]
The concept of Ashvaghosha in local and regional sources
Ashvaghosha is a notable Buddhist author known for his impactful plays and poems that advocate Buddhism, marking a significant shift from Brahmanic traditions. He is celebrated for his literary contributions, succeeding the renowned poet Kalidasa.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A celebrated Buddhist author believed to have succeeded Kalidasa, known for his plays and poems that promoted Buddhism, contrasting with the Brahmanic tradition.[9]