Significance of Suchness
Suchness, in Mahayana Buddhism, embodies the true essence of reality, transcending conceptual distinctions and labels. It represents the inherent nature of reality, which aligns with the concept of emptiness, indicating that all conditioned dharmas lack intrinsic essence. This understanding emphasizes the fundamental truth of existence, inviting practitioners to perceive reality as it truly is, free from attachments and distinctions. Suchness thus serves as a critical concept for comprehending the nature of existence within Mahayana philosophy.
Synonyms: Reality, Essence, Nature, True nature, Inherent quality, Being, Existence
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Suchness'
Suchness in Buddhism embodies the true essence of reality, representing both its inherent nature and the absence of intrinsic identity, transcending conceptual labels to reveal a deeper understanding of existence.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The fundamental nature or reality of the mind, indicating that the minds of Buddhas and bodhisattvas share the same essence.[1] (2) The fundamental aspect of reality that suggests all experiences are connected in essence.[2] (3) The inherent nature of reality, which is also recognized as empty of essence, paralleling the emptiness of all conditioned dharmas.[3] (4) The essence of reality as it truly is, beyond conceptual distinctions or labels.[4]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) The ultimate reality or true nature of phenomena as they are, free from dualistic notions of existence and non-existence.[5] (2) The ultimate reality as perceived in Buddhist philosophy, referring to the true nature of phenomena that transcends dualistic perceptions.[6] (3) The true nature of reality as it is unconditioned and free from conceptual overlays, representing a state of pure awareness.[7]
From: Mulamadhyamaka-karika (English)
(1) Characteristics of tranquility that are not known through others and exist without conceptual thoughts.[8] (2) The ultimate reality or truth that should be understood beyond the dualities of existence and non-existence.[9]
From: Vimalakirti Sutra
(1) Ultimate reality; the state of things as they really are.[10] (2) A philosophical concept indicating the intrinsic nature and reality of things that transcends duality and differentiation.[11]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The true nature of reality, free from conceptualization and dualistic thinking.[12] (2) A state of being that refers to the true nature of reality, unaffected and undisturbed.[13]