Candrakīrti (c. 600-650 CE) is one of the most influential figures in the Madhyamaka school of Mahayana Buddhism, particularly known for his elaboration of the Prāsaṅgika (Consequentialist) approach to Madhyamaka philosophy. His teachings focus on the concepts of emptiness (shunyata), the two truths, and the path to enlightenment. Here's an exploration of his key teachings:
Emptiness (Shunyata)
Refutation of Inherent Existence: Candrakīrti's central teaching revolves around the idea that all phenomena lack inherent or independent existence. This is the core of his interpretation of Madhyamaka, where he uses logical analysis to deconstruct any claim to intrinsic existence, thereby revealing emptiness.
"Prasannapadā" (Clear Words): In his commentary on Nagarjuna’s "Mulamadhyamakakarika," Candrakīrti systematically refutes views of intrinsic existence through reductio ad absurdum, showing that accepting such existence leads to logical contradictions.
The Two Truths
Conventional Truth (Samvriti Satya): Candrakīrti explains that while phenomena do not exist independently, they still appear and function within the conventional world. This level of truth accounts for everyday interactions, where things are accepted as they appear for practical purposes.
Ultimate Truth (Paramartha Satya): This is the level where phenomena are understood as empty of inherent existence. Here, the understanding of emptiness leads to the cessation of clinging and the realization of non-self.
Methodology of Refutation
Prāsaṅgika Approach: Unlike the Svātantrika Madhyamikas who might propose their own arguments, Candrakīrti's method is to only show the flaws in opponents' positions without asserting any positive thesis of his own. This method avoids the risk of reifying one's own philosophical constructs.
Bodhisattva Path and Ethics
Compassion and Wisdom: Candrakīrti emphasizes the integration of compassion with the wisdom of emptiness. In his "Introduction to the Middle Way" (Madhyamakāvatāra), he details how a bodhisattva should cultivate both, with wisdom counteracting ignorance and compassion driving the altruistic activity.
The Six Perfections: He elaborates on the practice of the six perfections (generosity, ethics, patience, effort, meditation, and wisdom) as the means to progress on the bodhisattva path, but with a strong emphasis on understanding emptiness within each practice.
Critique of Other Philosophical Systems
Critique of Yogācāra: Candrakīrti also engages in debates with the Yogācāra school, particularly criticizing their notion of "mind-only," arguing that even mind lacks inherent existence.
Refutation of Eternalism and Nihilism: His teachings aim to avoid both the view that things exist eternally (eternalism) and the view that nothing exists at all (nihilism), proposing a middle path where phenomena appear but are empty of inherent existence.
Legacy and Influence
Impact on Tibetan Buddhism: His works, especially "Madhyamakāvatāra," have been pivotal in the development of Madhyamaka thought in Tibet, where his interpretations have been championed by Tsongkhapa and the Gelug school, though with some variations in interpretation.
Philosophical Depth: Candrakīrti’s meticulous logical analysis and his ability to articulate the subtleties of emptiness have made his works central to understanding Madhyamaka philosophy.
Candrakīrti’s teachings are not just philosophical treatises but also practical guides for those on the path to enlightenment, emphasizing the inseparability of wisdom and compassion in the pursuit of Buddhahood.
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