Definition of the Week (3) – Definition of Emptiness

Definition of Emptiness:

The mere non-affirming negation of inherent existence.

“Mere” because if one takes away more than inherent existence one  falls into the extreme of nihilism, and if one takes away less than inherent existence one falls into the extreme of eternalism.

Panchen Losang Choki Gyaltsan:

The reflection of illusory appearance arises
Within the mirror of the empty mind.    
Since it has no existence beyond mere appearance,
There is no place for true-grasping to remain.

Emptiness is divided relative to the basis into the selflessness of person and the selflessness of phenomena.

Chandrakirti:
To liberate migrators his selflessness was taught in two aspects,
Dividing it according to phenomena and person.