Vaibhashika

Vaibhashika is one of the two main schools of thought within the early Buddhist tradition, the other being the Sautrantika. Vaibhashika is an orthodox school that represents a conservative interpretation of Buddhist teachings, particularly concerning the nature of reality and the analysis of phenomena.

Key features and characteristics of Vaibhashika include:

1. Abhidharma Philosophy: The Vaibhashika school is closely associated with the Abhidharma literature, which is a systematic and analytical exposition of the Buddha’s teachings. Abhidharma texts aim to provide a detailed classification and analysis of various aspects of reality, including mental factors, consciousness, and material elements.
2. Realism: Vaibhashika is considered a realist school because it posits the existence of external objects, asserting that physical objects and mental events have independent existence.
3. Momentariness: One of the key doctrines of Vaibhashika is the idea of “momentariness” (kshanabhangavada). According to this view, reality is constantly changing, and all phenomena arise and pass away in a series of momentary instances.
4. Theory of Ontological Categories: Vaibhashika classifies reality into different ontological categories, known as “dharmas.” These dharmas are the ultimate constituents of existence and are analyzed in terms of their characteristics, causes, and effects.
5. Theory of Substances and Attributes: Vaibhashika distinguishes between substances (dravya) and attributes (guna). Substances are the ultimate realities that possess inherent existence, while attributes are impermanent and dependent on substances.
6. No-Self (Anatta) Doctrine: Like all Buddhist schools, Vaibhashika upholds the doctrine of anatta, which denies the existence of an enduring, independent self (atman). According to Vaibhashika, the self is merely a designation based on the aggregation of impermanent mental and physical elements.
7. Reliance on Literal Interpretations: Vaibhashika adheres to a literal and conservative interpretation of the Buddhist scriptures. They maintain that the Buddha’s teachings should be taken at face value and not subject to extensive allegorical or figurative interpretations.

Vaibhashika philosophy played a significant role in the development of Buddhist thought, particularly during the early period of Buddhism. However, as Buddhist philosophy evolved, later schools like the Sautrantika and Yogachara emerged with different interpretations and emphases. It’s important to understand Vaibhashika within the broader context of Buddhist philosophy and its diverse traditions.