Bodhidharma: 'To find a Buddha all you have to do is see your nature.'

To find a Buddha all you have to do is see your nature.

In his profound statement, Bodhidharma encapsulates the essence of Buddhism by stating, "To find a Buddha all you have to do is see your nature." This quote conveys the idea that the path towards enlightenment and understanding lies within ourselves, within our own nature. It is a reminder to look inward and to seek wisdom not from external sources or material possessions but from within our own being. By recognizing and understanding our true nature, the Buddha nature within each of us, we can embark on a transformative journey towards enlightenment and self-realization.This quote holds immense significance as it challenges conventional notions of seeking enlightenment and wisdom from outside sources. It emphasizes the idea that the potential for enlightenment and the qualities of a Buddha already exist within us; all it takes is a shift in perspective and a deep introspection to uncover this inherent nature. This teaching encourages individuals to cultivate self-awareness, to be present in the moment, and to introspectively explore the depths of their own consciousness.However, as we delve further into the profound teachings of Buddhism, we encounter an unexpected and intriguing philosophical concept known as the "emptiness." Emptiness, or sunyata, is a fundamental concept in Buddhist philosophy that complements the idea of seeing our nature. It asserts that all phenomena, including the self, are devoid of inherent existence or a fixed identity.On the surface, these two concepts may seem contradictory. If we are to find our Buddha nature by seeing our nature, how can that be reconciled with the notion of emptiness? The key lies in understanding that emptiness does not imply nothingness but rather a lack of inherent, permanent essence. It is a concept that encourages us to transcend the illusion of a solid, independent self and recognize the interconnectedness and interdependence of all things.When we combine the idea of seeing our nature with the concept of emptiness, we arrive at a profound realization. We come to understand that our nature, the Buddha nature within us, is not a fixed, unchanging entity but rather a fluid, interconnected web of existence. It is not separate from the world around us but rather an integral part of it. By recognizing our interconnectedness and letting go of the grasping of a fixed identity, we can tap into the limitless potential for compassion, wisdom, and enlightenment.In essence, Bodhidharma's quote and the concept of emptiness complement one another. To find a Buddha, to awaken to our true nature, we must first see through the illusion of a separate and fixed self. By understanding that our nature is empty of inherent existence, we can cultivate a deep self-awareness and realize our interdependence with the world around us. In this realization, the seeds of compassion, wisdom, and enlightenment can flourish and guide us on our spiritual journey.In conclusion, Bodhidharma's quote, "To find a Buddha all you have to do is see your nature," encapsulates the foundational teachings of Buddhism. It urges individuals to turn their gaze inward and embark on a transformative journey towards self-realization. By combining this understanding with the concept of emptiness, we come to recognize the interconnectedness of all things and the limitless potential for compassion and wisdom within ourselves. When we truly see our nature and embrace the emptiness, we can unlock the Buddha nature within and walk the path towards enlightenment.