Nirvana

Buddhas and Patriarchs appeared on earth to teach the doctrine of prajna. The Sanskrit prajna means wisdom in Chinese. This wisdom is the Buddha-nature that we originally possess. It is also called Self-Mind or Self-Nature. This essence is originally undefiled, so it is called "clear and pure." It is originally without darkness, so it is called "bright." It is originally vast and all inclusive, so it is called "void and empty." It is originally without delusion, so it is called "the one truth." It is originally immutable, so it is called tathata. It is originally illuminating everywhere, so it is called "perfect enlightenment." It is originally calm and extinct, so it is called "nirvana."

- Han-shan Te-ch'ing (1546-1623)


Aikijutsu Academy of Indianapolis