Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250 AD) is considered one of the most important Buddhist philosophers in Indian history. Nāgārjuna's works have profound influence on the development of Mahayana Buddhism. He also sets up labs for alchemy, and is said to turn lead into gold.
Mahayana is translated from Sanskrit as great vehicle. It refers to a broad spectrum of Buddhist teachings and practices. According to Mahayana's teachings, there is no real self, so the awakening of one being is the awakening of all beings.
In Chinese and Tibetan literature, Nāgārjuna has a multifaceted life story. Born in Vidarbha, he's said to follow Jainism (Jain Dharma) in a previous incarnation. He's best known for teachings on the concept of emptiness (shunyata) and the Middle Way (Madhyamaka).
His journey of spiritual evolution and exploration leads him to various regions in South India, where he establishes several experimental laboratories. Remarkably, one of these laboratories has been unearthed in the village of Nagalwadi in Maharashtra.
The discovery of the laboratory sheds light on his scientific endeavors. Reports from the ancient laboratories hint at Nāgārjuna's ambitious pursuits, including research on immortality and his purported knowledge of extracting iron and mercury.
The Madhyamaka school takes a position between a metaphysical view of existence and the concept that things don't exist at all. In addition to his philosophical contributions, Nāgārjuna is a skilled metallurgist and alchemist. Some say he turns base metal to gold.
His expertise in these fields is well respected during his time. His knowledge of metallurgy and alchemy is often linked to his philosophical teachings. Nāgārjuna's legendary ability to transform base metals into gold is a feat of alchemical prowess ... or magic.
It signals his deep understanding of the nature of humans, reality and transformative processes inherent in the universe. In the context of alchemy, transmutation of base metals to gold is the journey of spiritual enlightenment and personal growth.
Nāgārjuna's purported ability to perform such a miracle expresses his belief in connection, and potential for change and evolution in the world. His alchemical interactions reflect his teachings. Does Nāgārjuna really turn lead metal into gold? If so, he keeps the secret.
Just as alchemy seeks to transmute base substances, Nāgārjuna's philosophy aims to reveal the true nature of reality by casting away illusions. Nāgārjuna illustrates the transformative power of wisdom and insight and the ability to transcend limitations of ordinary perception.
Nāgārjuna's works, such as the Fundamental Verses on the Middle Way, are revered by Buddhists around the world. His emphasis on spiritual enlightenment and the nature of reality as empty of inherent existence is a central tenet of Mahayana Buddhism.
Starting with Nāgārjuna, the madhyamaka philosophy distinguishes between two truths: conventional truth (the reality of everyday common sense) and ultimate truth (emptiness). Ultimately, madhyamaka asserts all phenomena lack inherent existence.
Phenomena only exist in relation to other causes, conditions, and concepts. In conventional terms, madhyamaka maintains beings do perceive tangible objects they empirically experience.
Over time, Nāgārjuna's legacy endures as a depth of wisdom and insight in the realm of Buddhist philosophy and spiritual practice. His teachings on emptiness, compassion and the Middle Way inspire seekers on the path to enlightenment and self-discovery.
His progressive work in alchemy and metallurgy contribute to scientific advancements of his time and leaves a lasting impact on fields of chemistry and medicine. Despite his significant contributions, the identification of Nāgārjuna in later sources is under debate.
Various historical writers have used the name Nāgārjuna, with numerous texts on medicine and alchemy attributed to him. Scholars try to distinguish between the alchemical Nāgārjuna and the Buddhist philosopher of the same name from the second century.
Nāgārjuna practices ayurvedic alchemy or rasayāna. One text attributes an elixir of invisibility to him, and other writers report his ability to transmute rocks into gold. The origin of gold-making is thought to date to Buddhist practitioners in the 2nd century AD.
Accounts of his alchemical pursuits, such as the creation of mystical elixirs and transmutation of elements blurs the lines between science and spirituality. Nāgārjuna makes significant contributions to fields of medicine, philosophy, and alchemy.
Overall, Nāgārjuna's reputed ability to turn base metals into gold serves as a multifaceted symbol. To pull off this talent indicates profound wisdom, spiritual depth, and understanding of the fundamental nature of existence, and the eternal quest for enlightenment and truth.
Non-Fiction Books:
Fiction Books:
READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure
READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series
READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries
Comments