Dharmasamuccaya
By Dharmaditya Dharmacharya
Summary
The Dharmasamuccaya, a Sanskrit Buddhist text, was copied by Bhiksu Sujita Srijiiana in 1173 CE (Nepalese era 1045) at Citra Vihara in Nepal. The manuscript, dated to Samvat 293 (Nepalese era), highlights the existence of active Buddhist monastic communities (Bhiksu Sangha) in Nepal during that period, countering the prevalent narrative of Shaiva Brahmins and Newars claiming the destruction of Buddhism by Shankaracharya. The text underscores the continued prevalence of Buddhist activities, including scriptural compilation, monastic culture, and royal patronage, such as land grants for viharas. Raja Rudra Deva, a Rajput dynasty ruler, is noted for repairing old viharas, ordaining as a Bhiksu, and promoting Buddhist education. Despite historical challenges, the work demonstrates that Buddhist literary and monastic efforts persisted without significant persecution for at least a millennium. The Dharmasamuccaya, compiled from unknown Sanskrit sources, is structured systematically and will be published jointly by Dr. B. M. Barua (Calcutta University) and Aditya Dharamacarya.
Conclusion
The Dharmasamuccaya's dating to 1173 CE provides critical evidence challenging prevalent narratives about Buddhism's decline in Nepal. By demonstrating active Bhiksu Sangha activities, royal patronage under Raja Rudra Deva, and monastic literary endeavors during this period, the text counteracts the dominant Saiva Brahminical account of Buddhist eradication. The manuscript's compilation under Bhiksu Sujita Srijiiana further underscores sustained Buddhist scholarly engagement, while royal endowments and vihara renovations reveal state-level support for Buddhist education and practice. This document thus reshapes historical understanding by presenting tangible proof of Buddhism's resilience and institutional presence in medieval Nepal, at least a millennium prior to its presumed suppression.