Buddhist View on Emptiness

　　A Speech Given in the Department of Philosophy at

　　Peking University, China

　　(June 24, 2010 )

　　Introduction by host:

　　Today, we are extremely honored to have Khenpo So Dargye here to introduce the philosophy of Tibetan Buddhism to us.

　　It is an exceptionally special occasion for us to have Khenpo here at Peking University. As we all know, Tibetan Buddhism contains many excellent things, such as its education and philosophy, but today”s academic circles lack research and complete understanding in this area. Moreover, Tibetan Buddhism is closely tied to Tibetan culture, which is an area in which we lack understanding. In addition, since Khenpo has achieved high realizations in his practice, his introduction to Buddhism will probably be at a completely different level to the way our ordinary university lecturers teach Buddhism.

　　Peking University has always promoted multiculturalism, and our students have a sense of academic passion and tolerance, so we are truly honored to have Khenpo here in our Department of Philosophy today to give a teaching. This event was initiated by those students who passionately study Tibetan Buddhism. While respecting their passion, this teaching could also act as a spur to our university teachers. Most of our teachers focus on Chinese Buddhism and Indian Buddhism, so the enthusiasm from the students may urge the teachers to enhance their studies. May we students and lecturers listen to the teachings of Khenpo together.

　　Dependent Origination

　　Today, it is my pleasure to be here in the Department of Philosophy at Peking University with teachers and students to share my appreciation and understanding of the concepts of emptiness and Buddha nature (Tathagatagarbha) from the perspective of Tibetan Buddhism. Although we have different occupations, I am also engaged in education; my profession is also as a teacher. I have been teaching and expounding the Dharma for nearly twenty years. Most of the professors and teachers present today have also been teaching and educating people, engaging in the wonderful cause of education. Because of this similarity, it is quite beneficial for us to discuss and study together.

　　This is my first time visiting Peking University, and I have found that you have an exceptionally good atmosphere for study here, especially the Zen Society, the Society of Cultivation and Learning, and other societies. You have quite a thorough study of religion, so I feel that it is very meaningful to exchange ideas with everyone here. Dialogue between people and sharing with others are very important. As a Tibetan monk, besides studying Tibetan Buddhism, it is also necessary for me to study Chinese Buddhism and other valuable scientific and technological knowledge taught in the university. Teachers and students from higher education should also pay attention to Tibetan Buddhism and other profound bodies of knowledge. Such mutual understanding, learning from each other, will tremendously benefit your life-view and world-view.

　　Therefore, during the following exchange of ideas, for my part, I will share my understanding of Buddhism, while for your part, please do not hesitate to raise any questions and doubts you may have for discussion. Buddhists usually have a defect: when we start to study Buddhism, we may be highly dubious and want to ask many questions, but after a while it is almost as if there are no more doubts and questions, and, finally, we do not even want to ask any questions. This behavior is undesirable. As scholars at Peking University, you are extremely talented and equipped with a sharp intellect; therefore, I hope that through this kind of discussion and communication each of us can benefit.

　　I. Studying Emptiness Is a Must

　　As we are aware, in the 21st …

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