Madhyamika Karika, the basic text of Madhyamika School, was composed

Madhyamika Karika, the basic text of Madhyamika School, was composed by

Nagarjuna
Asanga
Vasubandhu
Dharmakirti
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UPSC CAPF – 2021
Madhyamika Karika (Mūlamadhyamakakārikā), meaning “Fundamental Verses on the Middle Way,” is the foundational text of the Madhyamika school of Mahayana Buddhism. It was composed by the Indian Buddhist philosopher Nagarjuna (c. 150-250 CE), who is considered one of the most important figures in Mahayana philosophy.
– Nagarjuna’s philosophy is based on the concept of shunyata (emptiness), arguing that phenomena are empty of inherent existence (svabhava).
– The Madhyamika school is known as the “Middle Way” because it avoids the extremes of asserting existence or non-existence of phenomena.
– Asanga and Vasubandhu were prominent figures of the Yogacara school of Mahayana Buddhism, which focused on the nature of consciousness.
– Dharmakirti was a major Buddhist philosopher of the 7th century CE, primarily known for his work on Buddhist logic (Pramana).
Nagarjuna is revered as the second Buddha by some Mahayana traditions. His work significantly influenced the development of Buddhist thought in India and subsequent traditions in East Asia and Tibet.