There is no emptiness without appearance, and there is no appearance without emptiness. That is what we call the interdependent nature.
Interpretation
This quote highlights the interconnectedness of existence, suggesting that concepts like emptiness and appearance rely on each other.
Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche's quote reflects a fundamental principle in many philosophical and spiritual traditions, particularly in Buddhism. It emphasizes that emptiness and appearance are not separate entities but are mutually dependent. Appearance cannot be understood without acknowledging the underlying emptiness that gives rise to it, and vice versa. This interdependent nature illustrates how our understanding of the world is shaped by contrasting elements that define one another.
In practice
In a discussion about Buddhism, this quote can illustrate the concept of interdependence.
To discover your real questions, simply take a time-out. Stop looking ahead of yourself at where you’re going or backward at where you’ve been. When you do stop, there’s a sense of going nowhere. There’s a sense of gap, which is a tremendous relief. You can simply breathe and be who you are.
The true opponent in a debate on emptiness is your own ego.
Sometimes we are too polite with our suffering and allow it to dominate our life.
There is no inherent awakening power in cultural forms that have become dissociated from the wisdom and practicality that gave birth to them. They turn into illusions themselves and become part of the drama of religious culture. Although they can make us happy temporarily, they can't free us from suffering, so at some point, they become a source of disappointment and discouragement. Eventually, these forms may inspire nothing more than resistance to their authority.
It is not about how much you give, it is about how much you can let go with your mind.
It is all up to us. We are the ones who have to keep looking at our thoughts, looking for the nature of our mind. there is nobody else in control of our lives, our experiences, our freedom or our bondage.
Samsara is the mind turned outwardly, lost in its projections. Nirvana is the mind turned inwardly, recognizing its true nature.
We are such stuff as dreams are made on; and our little life is rounded with a sleep.
The journey is better than the inn".
Justice is the crowning glory of the virtues.
People don't want other people to get high, because if you get high, you might see the falsity of the fabric of the society we live in.
Has the dark shadow really disappeared? Or is it inside me, concealed, waiting for its chance to reappear? Like a clever thief hidden inside a house, breathing quietly, waiting until everyone’s asleep. I have looked deep inside myself, trying to detect something that might be there. But just as our consciousness is a maze, so too is our body. Everywhere you turn there’s darkness, and a blind spot. Everywhere you find silent hints, everywhere a surprise is waiting for you.
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