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our most problematic dualism is not life fearing death but…

“our most problematic dualism is not life fearing death but a fragile sense-of-self dreading its own groundlessness, according to Buddhism. By accepting and yielding to that groundlessness, I can discover that I have always been grounded in Indra’s Net, not as a self-enclosed being but as one…” quote by David R. Loy
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““our most problematic dualism is not life fearing death but a fragile sense-of-self dreading its own groundlessness, according to Buddhism. By accepting and yielding to that groundlessness, I can discover that I have always been grounded in Indra’s Net, not as a self-enclosed being but as one manifestation of a web of relationships which encompasses everything.””

David R. Loy

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Recognizing that the self is not a fixed entity but part of an interdependent web leads to freedom from existential dread.

In simple terms: Self is interdependent, not isolated.

Key Takeaway

Embrace interdependence.

Themes

interdependence emptiness Buddhism identity philosophy

Mood

contemplative reflective

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • spiritual practice
  • ethical decision‑making
  • environmental activism

Key Concepts

non‑self emptiness interconnectedness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does seeing yourself as part of a larger network change your daily choices?
  • What practices help you stay grounded while embracing emptiness?
A Different Perspective

Groundlessness can feel destabilizing without supportive community.

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