STUDY THE MAHAYANA BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY OF NAGARJUN.TRUTH AND EMPTINESS

Abstract

This research, “Study the Mahayana Buddhist philosophy of Nagarjuna regarding reality and emptiness” has three objectives: 1) to study and analyse the concepts of truth and emptiness according to Nagarjuna's Mahayana Buddhist philosophy; 2) to present key principles of truth and emptiness according to Nagarjuna's Mahayana Buddhist philosophy; and 3) to propose guidelines for applying these principles to the study of Nagarjuna's Mahayana Buddhist philosophy on truth and emptiness. This is a qualitative research study, primarily focusing on documentary research. The data analysed in this research.

The research results found that

1) An analysis of the concepts of reality and emptiness according to Nagarjuna's Mahayana Buddhist philosophy reveals that the Middle Way philosophy aims to dismantle essentialist ideas by explaining reality on two levels: conventional truth and ultimate truth, which are inextricably linked and mutually supportive. This is devoid of the inherent nature of all things and the principle of dependent origination, making reality a relational truth and leading to the middle path, avoiding fall into wrong views.

2) The key principles regarding reality and emptiness according to Nagarjuna's Mahayana Buddhist philosophy show that reality and emptiness are the same principle in their consideration. Emptiness is not a reality separate from the conventional world; it is a correct view of the conventional world. Nagarjuna uses emptiness as an intellectual tool to critique and release attachment to wrong views. With the ultimate goal of dispelling intellectual delusions and achieving inner freedom.

3) Application of Nagarjuna's Mahayana Buddhist philosophy on truth and emptiness: It was found that truth and emptiness can be used as a framework for thinking in studying, analysing, and questioning reality. It helps in understanding reality in terms of language, society, and inner experience, as well as promoting the development of wisdom and coexistence with the world, which is the ultimate goal of Buddhist philosophy.