[Solved] Indian Buddhist Monk sent to China: Nagarjuna

Which Indian Buddhist monk had been sent to China in the first century A.D.?

[Uttarakhand P.C.S. Prelims 2005]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Indian Buddhist missionaries played a vital role in transforming Buddhism into a pan-Asian religion during the Kushan era.

Authentic Source Evidence

Nagarjuna (1st-2nd Century CE), a contemporary of Kanishka, is traditionally said to have visited China. He is the founder of the Madhyamika (Middle Way) school of Mahayana Buddhism.

Analytical Breakdown

Nagarjuna (D): Renowned as the 'Indian Einstein' for his theory of relativity in 'Madhyamika Karika'.

Ashvaghosha (B): A poet and vice-president of the 4th Council, but primarily stayed in Kanishka's court.

Vasumitra (C): Presided over the 4th Council.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What is the core philosophy of Nagarjuna's school?"

Sunyavada (The Doctrine of Emptiness), which argues that all things are 'empty' of an independent, permanent essence.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Nagarjuna's influence on Chinese and East Asian thought is unparalleled, making him the most important Indian philosopher after the Buddha himself."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Kanishka 11 Mahayana 6