XX. The Chapter on the Mundane Path (Laukikamarga) in the Sravakabhumi: A Trilingual Edition (Sanskrit, Tibetan, Chinese), Annotated Translation, and Introductory Study. Volume I
International Institute for Buddhist Studies of the International College for Postgraduate Buddhist Studies eBooks, 2006
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Papers by Florin Deleanu
After a few methodological remarks and a brief review of the primary sources, I examine the formation of the Laṅkāvatārasūtra, distinguishing between a proto-text and an early version, on the one hand, and the late versions, on the other. The former are, most probably, the product of a Yogācāra splinter-group of contemplatives while the latter reflect new and wider concerns and paradigms. The final stages of compilation, dated to the second half of the 5th century CE, can be better understood in the context of the Buddhist strategy of absorbing and re-interpreting pan-Indian themes, which in the case of the Laṅkāvatārasūtra are closely connected to the great epic Rāmāyaṇa. This process of establishing a common intertexuality with other traditions while giving Buddhism the upper hand is set against the backdrop of the Hindu revival begun under the Gupta dynasty.
The paper also examines the ‘Laṅkā’ motif, which was a major source of inspiration chiefly for the authors and editors of the late Laṅkāvatārasūtra versions. The toponym actually provides important clues regarding its textual history. I revisit the evidence and explore in detail one of the most influential hypotheses about the formation of the Laṅkāvatārasūtra which postulates a scenario linking it to a Mahāyāna community in Sri Lanka. While not ruling out the possibility entirely, I argue that this scenario is not exactly plausible and suggest instead a North Indian formation hypothesis.
Finally, the paper looks into the content of the Dhāraṇīparivarta (= Chapter IX of the extant Sanskrit version) and the significance of its addition to the main text of the Laṅkāvatārasūtra.