Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s7.t16.1

v1.c7.s7.t16.1

Liushi (Six Teachers) Six persons representing non-Brahmin or anti-Brahmin thoughts formed around the sixth century, contemporary with the Buddhist founder Shakyamuni, who were referred to as “Six non-Buddhist teachers” in Buddhist texts, including Purana Kassapa, Makkhali Gosala, Ajita Kesakambala, Pakudha Kaccayana, Sanjaya Belatthiputra and Nigantha Nataputta. Activities and thoughts of these six persons had a significant influence on non-orthodox schools in ancient Indian history, and constitute some characteristic theories in Indian philosophy.