Bodhidharma: 'Once you see your nature, sex is basically immaterial.'

Once you see your nature, sex is basically immaterial.

Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk who lived in the 5th or 6th century, once said, "Once you see your nature, sex is basically immaterial." This quote encapsulates a profound understanding of the human experience and invites contemplation on the nature of self-realization and its relationship with gender and sexuality. In essence, Bodhidharma suggests that once we gain insight into our true nature, the distinctions and preoccupations surrounding gender and sex lose their significance. However, to delve deeper into this concept and shed more light on its philosophical implications, let's introduce the unexpected concept of existentialism.Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century, emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and choice. While seemingly distinct from Buddhist thought, a closer examination reveals intriguing parallels. Both Bodhidharma's quote and existentialism share a concern for transcending societal constructs to discover a more authentic self.In the context of gender and sexuality, Bodhidharma's statement challenges the conventional emphasis placed on these aspects of our identity. It invites us to question how much significance we should truly attach to such categorizations. Gender and sexual orientation, while undoubtedly important in shaping our individual experiences, can sometimes become sources of conflict, discrimination, and societal pressure. Bodhidharma's insight points towards the possibility of breaking free from these limitations and recognizing our shared core humanity.Existentialism similarly seeks to liberate individuals from the constraints and expectations imposed by society. It encourages self-reflection and personal choice as means to authenticity. In this context, existentialism can provide a unique lens through which to explore Bodhidharma's quote, as it emphasizes the process of self-discovery and the potential for personal transformation.When we consider the existentialist perspective alongside Bodhidharma's quote, intriguing connections emerge. Existentialism recognizes that discovering one's true nature requires a deep questioning of societal norms and expectations. Similarly, Bodhidharma's insight challenges our assumptions about the importance of gender and sex, suggesting that liberation comes from recognizing our inherent nature beyond these constructs.In the realm of relationships and human connection, both Bodhidharma's quote and existentialism offer valuable insights. By transcending the fixation on gender and sex, relationships can move beyond superficial expectations and embrace a more profound connection. When we remove the emphasis on these characteristics, we open ourselves to seeing and accepting others as they truly are, beyond the limitations of labels.Furthermore, this perspective invites us to question the role of desire in relation to our nature and sexuality. By understanding our true nature, Bodhidharma implies that desires become less about external factors and more about the alignment with our authentic selves. Exploring existentialist thought alongside this perspective provides a fertile ground for contemplating the nature of desire, freedom, and authenticity.It is worth noting that the concept presented here is not to diminish the importance of gender and sexuality but to encourage a broader understanding that encompasses the inherent complexity of human existence. Society has bestowed great significance upon these aspects of our identity, leading to expectations and divisions. However, Bodhidharma invites us to challenge these notions and explore the possibility of transcending these constructs, embracing a more expansive and inclusive understanding of self.In conclusion, Bodhidharma's quote, "Once you see your nature, sex is basically immaterial," imparts a profound insight into the nature of our true selves and the potential liberation from the confines of gender and sexuality. By introducing the unexpected concept of existentialism, we find overlapping themes of self-discovery, authenticity, and the challenge of societal expectations. These philosophical concepts enrich our understanding and encourage us to examine our perceptions, ultimately guiding us toward a more holistic and compassionate view of ourselves and others.