Rise of Mahayana and Development of Art (Gandhara, Mathura and other Schools)
Mahayana Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism is sometimes called Northern Buddhism. It is mainly followed by monks and nuns, and is largely found throughout China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Nepal, Russia, Tibet, and Vietnam.
The reign of Kanishka is known for the rise of the new cult of Buddhism known as the Mahayana cult or sect. There were any causes which were responsible for the rise of Mahayana Buddhism.
First the old form of Buddhism, known as the Hinayana Buddhism, had now become quite out-of-date. It was based on icy idealism and lacked realism. It had no emotional appeal. Its chief doctrines of self-suffering, non-violence and self-discipline were too difficult to be followed by common people. So the need of some sort of reformed religion as keenly felt by the people.
Secondly, Hinayana Buddhism sect was mean to suit the Indian nationality alone but it could not serve the purpose of Kanishka’s subjects which were composed of different nationalities. To them a religion based on a personal God, devotion and faith had a greater appeal.
Thirdly, with the fall of the Magadhan Empire, Pataliputra the seat of Buddhist orthodoxy, lost much of its importance and became only a secondary city in India. Without this decrease in the importance of Pataliputra, the rise of a new cult in Buddhism would have become very difficult.
Fourthly, a dispute over many doctrines of Buddhism had lately become so acute that it required an immediate settlement.
Fourth Buddhist Council
Keeping all these things in view Kanishka called a Buddhist council, the fourth of its kind, at Kundalvana, near Srinagar in Kashmir. It was attended by about 500 monks and scholars on the Buddhist theology. The chief among them were Vasumitra, Asvaghosa, Nagarjuna and Parshva. It is generally believed that Vasumitra was the President and Asvaghosa was the Vice-President of this Council. Two important results were achieved in this Council.
- One was the writing of commentaries on the sacred Buddhist texts” The Tripitakas.” Most of these commentaries were compiled in a book-form known as “Mahavibhasha”, which is generally regarded as the Encyclopedia of Buddhism.
- The other was the division of the Buddhist Church into two sects—the Hinayana Buddhism and the Mahayana Buddhism. The Mahayana sect was recognized at the state religion by Kanishka.
- Mathura and Gandhara school of art
Mathura and Gandhara also strongly influenced each other. During their artistic florescence, the two regions were even united politically under the Kushans, both being capitals of the empire.
- The rise of Mahayana system of Buddhism during The Kushana rule provided golden opportunity to the Mathura artists to show their talent in creation of Buddhist images and icons. In that work they did not need foreign influence like the Gandhara artists. The Mathura school of art developed on Indian traditions.
- Instead of looking at Greek sculptures for inspiration, the Mathura sculptors developed their own distinct style of work. They found enough material from Buddhist Jataka storeis, from the life-events of Gautama Buddha, from his divine birth, renunciation, enlightenment, sermons at many places, and his Mahaparinirvana.
- Since Mathura was within the Kushana Empire, the scupltors who were known as the Salia-Rupakaras received enough of royal patronage. They met the royal demand and requirement of outside countries by carving countless images of Buddha. Those images presented divine attributes of the Lord in various mudras like the famous Abhaya-Mudra of Buddha. Bodhisattva images also received Indian traditional faith as expected of divinities.
- The Gandhara school of Art did not stop only with Buddhist images. From traditional Brahmanical faith, the artists carved out images of Kubera, and of Yakshas, Yakshinis and Nagas. Side by side, they also carved out Brahmanical and Jaina divinities. They also constructed stone railings, female figures and decorative stone panels with floral designs.
Besides religious sculptures, the Gandhara School of Art carved secular statues according to need. The finest example of this art is seen in the life-size statue of Kushana Emperor Kanishka. The King stands in royal posture with majestic dignity. His robes were typical of the Kushana era. The legacy of the Mathura art reached its culminating height during the Gupta Era which saw a puranic religious revival.
Main Differences Between Mathura School of Arts and Gandhara School of Arts-
(1) Origin
- Mathura School: No foreign Influence, however, later it cross fertilized with the Gandhara School. Its development took place indigenously.
- Gandhara School: Strong Greek influence. Was based on Greco-Roman norms encapsulating foreign techniques and an alien spirit. It is also known as Graeco-Buddhist School of art. Initially inspired by Yaksha Images Assimilating various traits of Acamenian, Parthian and Bactrian traditions into the local tradition is a hallmark of the Gandhara style. Initially inspired by Hellenistic features.
(2) Material Used
- Mathura School: Spotted Red Sandstone
- Gandhara School: Blue-grey Mica schist / Grey Sandstone
(3) Image Features
- Mathura School: Early period: Light volume having fleshy body. Later Period:Flashiness reduced. Buddha carved out in various Mudras. Not much attention to detailed sculpting. Buddha is stout.
- Gandhara School: Finer details and realistic images. Buddha carved out in various Mudras. Curly hair, anatomical accuracy, spatial depth, and foreshortening. Buddha is sometimes thin.
(4) Halo
- Mathura School: The halo around the head of Buddha was profusely decorated. Images are less expressive.
Buddha with decorated Halo
- Gandhara School: Not decorated, generally.The images are very expressive.
Amaravati School of Art
- In Amaravati, situated in the eastern Deccan, Andhra Pradesh, a different type of art form evolved and flourished for nearly six centuries commencing from 200-100 BC. Patronized first by the Satavahanas and later by the Ikshvakus and also by other groups.
- The Amaravati school of art occupies a pre-eminent position in the history of Indian Art. With its beginning in 3rd century BC the Amaravati unfolds its chapters through the galaxy of sculptural wealth that designed the Mahachaityas.
- The lotus and the purnakumbha motifs are typical of Amaravati Art expressing auspiciousness and abundance.
- White Marble was used in this art and the themes were Buddha’s life and Jatakas tales. The curly hairs of Buddha is a feature that is influenced by the Greeks.
- In this school, the Kings, Princes, Palaces etc. have got prominence.
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The Rise of Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism is one of the two major branches of Buddhism, along with Theravada Buddhism. It is the dominant form of Buddhism in East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Tibet. Mahayana Buddhism is characterized by its emphasis on the bodhisattva ideal, which is the goal of achieving enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
The origins of Mahayana Buddhism are complex and not fully understood. However, it is generally believed to have arisen in India in the 1st or 2nd century CE. The earliest Mahayana texts are the Prajnaparamita sutras, which emphasize the importance of wisdom and compassion.
Mahayana Buddhism spread to East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Tibet over the centuries. It has had a profound impact on the cultures of these regions. Mahayana Buddhism is a vibrant and dynamic tradition that continues to evolve today.
The Development of Mahayana Art
Mahayana art is a diverse and complex field that encompasses a wide range of styles and media. The earliest Mahayana art dates from the 1st or 2nd century CE, and it continued to develop and evolve over the centuries.
Mahayana art is often characterized by its use of symbolism and its depiction of bodhisattvas and other Buddhist figures. Some of the most famous examples of Mahayana art include the Gandharan school of art, the Mathura school of art, and the Ajanta Caves.
The Gandharan school of art flourished in the region of Gandhara, which is now part of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Gandharan art is characterized by its use of Greek and Roman artistic techniques, and it often depicts Buddhist figures in a Greco-Roman style.
The Mathura school of art flourished in the region of Mathura, which is now part of India. Mathura art is characterized by its use of Indian artistic techniques, and it often depicts Buddhist figures in a more naturalistic style.
The Ajanta Caves are a series of Buddhist caves located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. The caves were built over a period of 600 years, from the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE. The Ajanta Caves are famous for their exquisite paintings and sculptures, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha and other Buddhist stories.
The Rise of Mahayana Buddhism and the Development of Art (Gandhara, Mathura and other Schools)
The rise of Mahayana Buddhism and the development of art (Gandhara, Mathura and other schools) are two closely related phenomena. Mahayana Buddhism emerged in India in the 1st or 2nd century CE, and it quickly spread to other parts of Asia. As Mahayana Buddhism spread, it also developed its own unique art style.
The Gandharan school of art was one of the earliest schools of Mahayana art. It flourished in the region of Gandhara, which is now part of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Gandharan art is characterized by its use of Greek and Roman artistic techniques, and it often depicts Buddhist figures in a Greco-Roman style.
The Mathura school of art was another important school of Mahayana art. It flourished in the region of Mathura, which is now part of India. Mathura art is characterized by its use of Indian artistic techniques, and it often depicts Buddhist figures in a more naturalistic style.
The Ajanta Caves are a series of Buddhist caves located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. The caves were built over a period of 600 years, from the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE. The Ajanta Caves are famous for their exquisite paintings and sculptures, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha and other Buddhist stories.
The development of Mahayana art was a complex process that was influenced by a variety of factors. These factors included the spread of Mahayana Buddhism, the interaction between different cultures, and the development of new artistic techniques. The result of this process was a rich and diverse body of art that continues to inspire and amaze people today.
What is Buddhism?
Buddhism is a religion that originated in India over 2,500 years ago. It is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, who is also known as the Buddha. The Buddha taught that suffering is caused by desire and that the way to end suffering is to follow the Eightfold Path.
What are the Eightfold Path?
The Eightfold Path is a set of eight steps that lead to enlightenment. The steps are:
- Right understanding
- Right thought
- Right speech
- Right action
- Right livelihood
- Right effort
- Right mindfulness
- Right concentration
What is the Four Noble Truths?
The Four Noble Truths are the foundation of Buddhism. They are:
- Suffering exists
- Suffering is caused by desire
- Suffering can be ended
- The way to end suffering is to follow the Eightfold Path
What is Nirvana?
Nirvana is the state of perfect peace and happiness that is achieved when one is free from suffering. It is the ultimate goal of Buddhism.
What is the role of the Buddha in Buddhism?
The Buddha is the founder of Buddhism and the supreme teacher of the Four Noble Truths. He is also considered to be an enlightened being who has achieved nirvana.
What is the role of the Sangha in Buddhism?
The Sangha is the community of Buddhist monks, nuns, and laypeople. It is the body of people who follow the teachings of the Buddha and work to help others achieve enlightenment.
What are the different schools of Buddhism?
There are many different schools of Buddhism, each with its own unique interpretation of the Buddha’s teachings. The four main schools of Buddhism are Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana, and Zen.
What is the history of Buddhism?
Buddhism originated in India over 2,500 years ago. It spread to other parts of Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. In the 20th century, Buddhism also spread to the West.
What is the practice of Buddhism?
The practice of Buddhism varies depending on the school of Buddhism. However, some common practices include meditation, chanting, and pilgrimage.
What are the benefits of Buddhism?
Buddhism can provide many benefits, including:
- Increased peace and happiness
- Reduced Stress and anxiety
- Improved relationships
- Increased self-awareness
- A sense of purpose in life
What are the challenges of Buddhism?
One challenge of Buddhism is that it can be difficult to follow the Eightfold Path. Another challenge is that Buddhism can be seen as a foreign religion by some people.
What is the future of Buddhism?
The future of Buddhism is uncertain. However, it is a growing religion, and it is likely to continue to spread in the years to come.
The Gupta Empire was a golden age for Indian culture. Which of the following is NOT true about the Gupta Empire?
(A) It was a time of great economic prosperity.
(B) It was a time of great intellectual and artistic achievement.
(C) It was a time of great religious Tolerance.
(D) It was a time of great political stability.The Gupta Empire was founded in 320 CE by Chandragupta I. Which of the following is NOT true about Chandragupta I?
(A) He was a great military leader.
(B) He was a great patron of the arts.
(C) He was a great diplomat.
(D) He was a great administrator.The Gupta Empire reached its peak under the reign of Ashoka the Great. Which of the following is NOT true about Ashoka the Great?
(A) He was a great conqueror.
(B) He was a great Buddhist reformer.
(C) He was a great builder.
(D) He was a great writer.The Gupta Empire declined in the 6th century CE. Which of the following is NOT a reason for the decline of the Gupta Empire?
(A) The empire was too large to be effectively governed.
(B) The empire was weakened by internal conflicts.
(C) The empire was attacked by foreign invaders.
(D) The empire was hit by a series of natural disasters.The Gupta Empire left a lasting legacy on Indian culture. Which of the following is NOT a part of the Gupta legacy?
(A) The Guptas introduced the decimal system to India.
(B) The Guptas built many great temples and monasteries.
(C) The Guptas patronized the arts and sciences.
(D) The Guptas spread Buddhism throughout India.The Gupta Empire was a major center of Learning. Which of the following is NOT true about Education in the Gupta Empire?
(A) Education was open to all classes of people.
(B) Education was based on the Vedas.
(C) Education was highly valued in the Gupta Empire.
(D) Education was primarily for the purpose of training government officials.The Gupta Empire was a major center of trade. Which of the following is NOT true about trade in the Gupta Empire?
(A) The Gupta Empire traded with China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
(B) The Gupta Empire had a strong currency.
(C) The Gupta Empire built many roads and canals to facilitate trade.
(D) The Gupta Empire was a major producer of textiles, spices, and other goods.The Gupta Empire was a major center of art and architecture. Which of the following is NOT true about art and architecture in the Gupta Empire?
(A) The Guptas built many great temples and monasteries.
(B) The Guptas were patrons of the arts.
(C) The Guptas produced many beautiful sculptures and paintings.
(D) The Guptas were influenced by the art and architecture of the Roman Empire.The Gupta Empire was a major center of religion. Which of the following is NOT true about religion in the Gupta Empire?
(A) Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism was the dominant religion in the Gupta Empire.
(B) Buddhism was also a major religion in the Gupta Empire.
(C) Jainism was a minor religion in the Gupta Empire.
(D) The Guptas were tolerant of all religions.The Gupta Empire was a major center of science. Which of the following is NOT true about science in the Gupta Empire?
(A) The Guptas made significant advances in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine.
(B) The Guptas were the first to develop the decimal system.
(C) The Guptas were the first to develop the concept of zero.
(D) The Guptas were the first to develop the concept of calculus.