research The Sinicization of 'Ojas', the Formation of 'Ghost Licking/Shaving Head', and the Authenticity of the Guanding Sutra
The document explores the translation variations of the Sanskrit term "ojas" in Chinese versions of the Bhaiṣajyaguru Sūtra, focusing on the Guanding Sūtra's unique translations like "舐頭" (licking the head) and their implications. It argues that these translations reflect a historical trajectory from imprecision to precision, supporting the theory that the Guanding Sūtra is a foreign-translated text. The emergence of the phrase "惡鬼舐頭" (evil ghost licking the head) is linked to ancient interpretations of alopecia areata, a condition misunderstood as being caused by ghosts. This term, originating in the Sui Dynasty, was later replaced by "鬼剃頭" (ghost shaving head) during the Qing Dynasty after Xuanzang's translation became dominant.
GHOST