C05-Mulamadhyamakakarika Treatise

The Mulamadhyamakakarika Treatise or The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way by Indian Mahasiddha Nagarjuna (150-250) expresses the doctrine that all phenomena are empty of inherent existence, that is, that nothing exists substantially or independently. Despite lacking any essence, Nagarjuna argues, phenomena nonetheless exist conventionally, and that indeed conventional existence and ultimate emptiness are in fact the same thing. This represents the radical understanding of the Buddhist doctrine of the two truths, or two levels of reality. It represents the Profound Division of the Mahayana based on the “Second Turning of the Wheel” teachings.

This is one of the five classic commentaries that is required in the traditional Tibetan Buddhist education.  It must be mastered before beginning esoteric studies and practice. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III told us in Learning from Buddha that “If you are a master with disciples, you must at least study in depth some sutras and commentaries as a foundation, such as . . . the Madhyamaka Treatise, . . . and others. Doing so will reduce the possibility of leading others astray in the process of teaching.”

We are developing a study plan for this course, but know that may take some time. The text that looks most promising and is available on Amazon is Nagarjuna’s Middle Way: Mulamadhyamakakarika (Classics of Indian Buddhism) by Mark Siderits and Shoryu Katsura. Since none of our facilitators pretend to be scholars or even teachers, we urge you to start reading the text and even formulating your own questions and insights. Please check with the facilitator for this course, Reba Jinbo Rinpoche, to find out more.

You will need to complete G02-Spiritual Autobiography, G03(A)-Evolution of Buddhism & the Five Vidyas, and  D35(A)-128 Evil & Erroneous Views as a prerequisites to starting this course.