Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s7.t12.2

v1.c7.s7.t12.2

**Theoretical Sources and Relevant Legends** - The word “Vaiśeṣika”, which is the Sanskrit name for Vaisheshika, is derived from “Vishesa,” which means “distinction,” or “distinguishing feature,” or “particularity.” This school was also transliterated into “feishishijia” and “pishishi” in ancient China. In Chinese Buddhist scriptures, it is often referred to as “Sheng Zong” or “Shenglun Waidao”.