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.
Since inequalities of privilege are greater than could possibly be defended rationally, the intelligence of privileged groups is usually applied to the task of inventing specious proofs for the theory that universal values spring from, and that general interests are served by, the special privileges which they hold.
Human pride and egoism always create divisions, build walls of indifference, hate and violence. The Holy Spirit, on the other hand, makes hearts capable of understanding the languages of all, as he re-establishes the bridge of authentic communication between earth and Heaven.
It is a fatal mistake to assume that God’s goal for your life is material prosperity or popular success, as the world defines it. The abundant life has nothing to do with material abundance, and faithfulness to God does not guarantee success in a career or even ministry. Never focus on temporary crowns.
If God is not sovereign, God is not God.
The spirit of democracy... requires change of the heart... requires the inculcation of the spirit of brotherhood.
Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race.
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