In Buddhism

Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism)

Source: Wisdom Library: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

Punarvasuka (पुनर्वसुक) and Aśvaka are two Bhikṣus mentioned in the 2nd century Mahāprajñāpāramitāśāstra (chapter XXVI).—Accordingly, “The two Bhikṣus Ma (Aśvaka) and Tsing (Punarvasuka), Fell into the evil destinies because of their laziness. Although they had seen the Buddha and heard his Dharma; They could not escape from punishment”.

Note: Punarvasuka and Aśvaka had five hundred disciples and were part of the much-disparaged group of Ṣaḍvargiyas. They lived at Kiṭāgiri, a village situated on the road from Benares to Śrāvastī. They indulged in various condemnable practices: they grew flowers, made bouquets and garlands of them and sent them to women and girls in the neighborhood to enter into relationships with them; they violated the precept forbidding meals at improper times; they used perfumes, were present at and participated in spectacles.

context information

Mahayana (महायान, mahāyāna) is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sūtras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajñāpāramitā sūtras.

See also (Relevant definitions)

Full-text: Ashvaka, Punarvasu.

Relevant text

Search found 1 books and stories containing Punarvasuka; (plurals include: Punarvasukas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra (by Gelongma Karma Migme Chödrön)

Appendix 4 - Notes on the bhikṣus Ma (Aśvaka) and Tsing (Punarvasuka) < [Chapter XXVI - Exertion]

Part 3 - Progress in exertion < [Chapter XXVI - Exertion]

Introduction to second volume < [Introductions]

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