Wǔ yùn guān 五蘊觀

Contemplation of the Five Aggregates by 澄觀 (Chéngguān, 述)

About the work

This 1-fascicle text is 澄觀 Chéngguān’s brief contemplative-doctrinal treatment of the wǔ yùn 五蘊 (the Five Aggregates: form, sensation, perception, mental formations, consciousness) — the foundational Buddhist doctrine of the pañca-skandha — as it is configured for Avataṃsaka-style contemplative practice. The doctrine is foundational to all Buddhist traditions, and Chéngguān’s treatment integrates it into the mature Huáyán-school contemplative apparatus.

Prefaces

No formal preface.

Abstract

The work is conventionally datable to 澄觀 Chéngguān’s mature period, c. 787 – 838 CE. The bracket adopted here reflects this window. The work is preserved in the Manji Xù zàng jīng (X1004) collection.

Translations and research

  • No substantial Western-language translation located.
  • Hamar, Imre. A Religious Leader in the Tang (2002).