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In brief, what Centrists refute is any notion of real or…

“In brief, what Centrists refute is any notion of real or absolute existence or an intrinsic nature that is attributed to any phenomenon, whether it is material form, ordinary consciousness, omniscient wisdom, Buddhahood, the Dharma Body, or Buddha nature. Centrists make no difference in this…” quote by Karl Brunnholzl
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““In brief, what Centrists refute is any notion of real or absolute existence or an intrinsic nature that is attributed to any phenomenon, whether it is material form, ordinary consciousness, omniscient wisdom, Buddhahood, the Dharma Body, or Buddha nature. Centrists make no difference in this respect between refuting the positions of Buddhists and non-Buddhists. They do not even hesitate to apply such a critique to anything that is-correctly or incorrectly-understood as "Centrism." Thus, if the teachings on the three natures are explained so as to even slightly suggest real existence, be it on the seeming or the ultimate level, be it by the Proponents of Cognizance, so-called Mere Mentalists, or Shen- tong-Madhyamikas, Centrists will speak up against this. However, when the presentation of the three natures is understood as the Karmapa explained it above, it is not something that has to be discarded by Centrists but comes down to the same essential point of ultimate non referential 1 ry that is explained in the Centrist teachings.””

Karl Brunnholzl

About This Quote

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

Centrists deny any intrinsic existence of phenomena, rejecting both material and spiritual essences, and critique any claim of real existence in Buddhist teachings.

In simple terms: Centrists reject inherent existence of anything.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about inherent nature.

Themes

philosophy Buddhism ontology

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

intellectual inquisitive

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • personal meditation
  • theological study
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

emptiness non-duality critical analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “no intrinsic nature” mean for daily life?
  • How can one balance skepticism with meaningful practice?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on negation can lead to nihilism.

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