Emptiness (Śūnyatā)

Śūnyatā, or emptiness, is a fundamental concept in Buddhism that suggests all things lack independent, fixed existence. Instead, everything arises interconnectedly and conditionally, dependent on other factors. This means objects, ideas, and ourselves are not separate, unchanging entities but are transient and interdependent processes. Recognizing emptiness helps free us from attachments and illusions, leading to greater compassion and understanding. It does not imply that things don’t exist at all, but that their existence is fluid and relational, encouraging a perspective that sees beyond rigid distinctions to the interconnected nature of reality.