Journal of East China Normal University (Philosoph ›› 2013, Vol. 45 ›› Issue (5): 57-62.

• 佛教研究 • Previous Articles     Next Articles

The Doctrine of “the Self-realization of the Original Enlightenment” in The Awakening of Faith

MENG Shu-yuan   

  • Online:2013-09-15 Published:2013-11-06
  • Contact: MENG Shu-yuan
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Abstract: The structure of “the Two Aspects of One Mind” in The Awakening of Faith demonstrates well that Chinese Buddhism is characterized by its emphasis on the self-realization of the original enlightenment and the dimension of internal transcendence. Prominently promoting the subjectivity of a human being in his becoming a Buddha, The Awakening of Faith is a landmark in the process of humanization of Chinese Buddhism. Its theory of Mind-substance holds the unity of substance and function, mind-pollution and mind-purification, and enlightenment and non-enlightenment. It presents a new doctrine of “the original enlightenment of True Thusness”, according to which True Thusness can realize it’s self-salvation and return to its original purification through the cultivation practice of the self-realization of the original enlightenment.