Significance of Purana Kassapa
Purana Kassapa is regarded differently in the Mahayana and Theravada traditions. In Mahayana, he is seen as an individual claiming omniscience, which the Buddha challenges. In Theravada, he is described as a contemporary of the Buddha who attracted followers through his asceticism and rejection of material wealth, part of a group of six sectarian teachers. Kassapa was known for promoting heretical views, including the denial of cause and effect, ultimately leading to his despair and suicide when confronted by Buddha's miracles.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Purana Kassapa'
Purana Kassapa, a Buddhist heretic, rejected cause and effect, promoted inefficacy, and gained followers through his asceticism. His despair led to suicide, highlighting challenges posed by Buddha's teachings and the claims of false omniscience.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A heretic teacher whose despair led to his suicide when faced with the challenges posed by Buddha's impending miracles.[1] (2) One of the six sectarian teachers who absconded from servitude and regarded nakedness as a sign of holiness.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A teacher known for promoting a doctrine of inefficacy, which is one of the false views from the Buddha's time.[3] (2) A contemporary of the Buddha who gained a following due to his ascetic lifestyle and non-attachment to material possessions.[4]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) One of the five heretics known for his belief in the rejection of cause and effect.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Another individual noted for claiming to possess comprehensive knowledge, representing the claims of omniscience that the Buddha challenges.[6]