Buddhist Classics and Philosophy

The discourse highlights the contradictions within the self-concept and introduces Nāgārjuna’s perspective on the interconnectedness of all phenomena.

Starting with verses from “Root of the Middle Way,” we emphasize the illusory nature of conventional constructs. The discussion deepens with a focus on Nāgārjuna’s view that dependent objects neither truly arise nor cease, challenging our beliefs about reality.

Session 6 explores reconciling everyday perceptions with philosophical insights, especially regarding causality and reality’s nature.

Session 7 explores causality intricacies and interpretations of monism and non-arising. It concludes by encouraging contemplation of causal relationships challenging the notion of fundamental difference between cause and effect.

Session 8 raises fundamental questions about causality and whether it can be adequately described as sameness, difference, a combination of both, or something entirely different.

This session centers on the nature of cause and effect. It dismisses notions of them being identical, entirely different, or a mix of both due to a lack of real instances demonstrating sameness or difference.

Session 10 explores the idea that nothing ever arises from itself, another, both, or uncaused. The discussion questions the conventional distinctions between causes and effects.

The teaching examines Nāgārjuna’s argument on dependent origination, questioning the solidity of cause and effect, existence, and non-existence. The discussion highlights the necessity of ongoing inquiry, emphasizing that true understanding arises within an environment of trust, collective learning, and engagement with both philosophical reasoning and personal experience.

Session 12 challenges conventional thinking about causality and perception and invites students to engage in philosophical and contemplative inquiry to navigate the complexities of Nagarjuna’s teachings.

Session 13 delves into whether an effect exists within the gathering of causes and conditions. This leads to uncertainty about cause, effect, and non-cause distinctions.