Exploring the Legacy of Shantarakshita: The Inspiration Behind Our Boys Hostel at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara

Pic credit: Sonu Kumar 

Introduction

At Nava Nalanda Mahavihara, our commitment to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Buddhism is deeply ingrained in our institution's ethos. In line with this mission, we are proud to announce the naming of our boys' hostel after the illustrious Buddhist monk, Shantarakshita. In this blog post, we invite you to delve into the life and contributions of Shantarakshita, a revered figure in the history of Buddhism whose teachings continue to inspire generations.

Shantarakshita: A Brief Overview

Shantarakshita, also known as Śāntarakṣita or Khenpo Bodhisattva, was a prominent Buddhist scholar, philosopher, and teacher who lived in the 8th century CE. He is celebrated for his profound impact on the development and propagation of Buddhism in Tibet. Born in India, Shantarakshita's journey led him to Tibet, where he played a pivotal role in establishing Buddhism as a prominent spiritual tradition in the region.

    Pic credit: Sonu Kumar 

The Journey to Tibet

Shantarakshita's arrival in Tibet marked a significant turning point in the history of Buddhism in the Himalayan region. His journey to Tibet was not without challenges, as he encountered opposition from local deities and encountered hostile forces that hindered his progress. Despite these obstacles, his unwavering commitment to spreading the teachings of Buddhism led to a transformative period in Tibetan history.

Founding of Samye Monastery

One of Shantarakshita's most notable achievements was the founding of the Samye Monastery in Tibet. This monastery, often considered the first Tibetan Buddhist monastery, became a center of Buddhist scholarship, meditation, and practice. Shantarakshita's vision for Samye was to create a harmonious blend of Indian and Tibetan Buddhist traditions, a goal that shaped the development of Tibetan Buddhism.

The Scholar and Teacher

Shantarakshita was not only a skilled administrator but also a prolific scholar and teacher. His contributions to Buddhist philosophy, particularly the Madhyamaka school, are highly regarded. He played a vital role in refining and transmitting the profound wisdom of Nagarjuna, a key figure in the development of Madhyamaka philosophy.

The Legacy Lives On

The legacy of Shantarakshita continues to inspire Buddhists and scholars around the world. His teachings on philosophy, meditation, and ethics remain essential components of Tibetan Buddhist education. By naming our boys' hostel after Shantarakshita, we aim to honor his enduring influence and commitment to the dissemination of Buddhist wisdom.

Conclusion

At Nava Nalanda Mahavihara, our decision to name our boys' hostel after Shantarakshita reflects our dedication to preserving and sharing the profound heritage of Buddhism. Shantarakshita's remarkable journey from India to Tibet and his contributions to Buddhist philosophy and practice exemplify the spirit of cross-cultural exchange and spiritual enrichment that we seek to foster in our institution.

As we move forward, we encourage all our students to draw inspiration from the life and teachings of Shantarakshita, embracing the timeless wisdom of Buddhism while also engaging with the contemporary challenges of our world. By studying and embodying the principles that Shantarakshita stood for, we can strive to make a positive impact on our society and contribute to the enduring legacy of Buddhism.