Buddhism is an ancient philosophy that originated in India around the 6th century. Siddhārtha Guatama was the first present age Buddha, which means the “awakened one”. Buddha does not just refer to Siddhārtha however, but rather it refers to all those that have awakened their true potential. Buddhism is centered on four basic concepts the called the Four Noble Truths. These truths are that life means suffering, suffering originates from attachment, the end of suffering is achievable, and the last truth is how to achieve the cessation of suffering through the Eightfold Noble Path. The Noble Eightfold Path can help lead to the achievement of nirvāna, which is the primary goal of Buddhism. Nirvāna is the highest level of spiritual attainment that one can achieve, and it involves the cessation of suffering and achieving purity of mind. Reaching nirvāna means becoming a master of oneself and lifting the veil to see the true nature of reality. It is possible for all sentient beings to achieve Buddhahood if they can free themselves from attachments and impermanent pleasures. Another important aspect of Buddhism is taking refuge in the three Jewels, which are the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. The Buddha refers to the nature of the Buddha, the Dharma means the teachings of the Buddha, and the Sangha refers to the community of practicing Buddhists and monks. One of the many great Buddhist philosophers was Huangbo Xiyun, who taught of the one mind and its role in ultimate reality.
Huangbo spoke about the nature of the one mind in the Transmission of the Mind-Dharma. The one mind is not changing, it does not suffer, nor is it subject to conditions. One of the main themes Huangbo deemed necessary for Buddhahood was nonattachment. According to Huango, “Sentient beings are attached to characteristics and seek [for it] outside themselves. The more they seek it, the farther they go astray.” (Reader p. 218) This non-attachment to characteristics and desires is necessary to end suffering, as cravings only serve to increase unhappiness. For example, enjoying a good meal may provide momentary happiness, but once it’s gone, there is a lack of pleasure and contentment. Nothing can give complete satisfaction. This craving for a short-lived pleasure can result in greed, lying, stealing and other ills that cause suffering and go against the nature of reality. According to Huangbo, nonattachment is one of the most essential elements when it comes to achieving Buddhahood, “Students of the Way/Truth who wish to achieve Buddhahood [should understand] that none of Buddha’s teachings needs study – just study nonseeking and...
