The Synthesizing Method of the Simmun hwajaeng non and Its Periphery

Abstract

This paper explores the commentary concerning Being (有) and Buddha-nature (仏性) in the fragments of the Simmun hwajaeng non 十門和諍論, written by Wŏnhyo 元暁.

First, examining the discussion of Being in these fragments makes it clear that not only the theory of mutual identity (相即) between Emptiness (空) and Being but also the various theories of mutual identity in Sanlun Buddhism were indispensable for the logic of the tetra-lemma its synthesizing in Wŏnhyo’s philosophy. Furthermore, Wŏnhyo links synthesizing with the Dasheng qixin lun 大乗起信論.

Second, we consider the features of Wŏnhyo’s synthesizing method within the debate over Buddha-nature. His method is as follows: he reinterprets the passages from sutras which form the basis for their own insistence, thereby each of the apparently conflicting positions can be reconciled with the other.

Finally, the discussion focuses on the relation between Wŏnhyo’s synthesizing method and Fazang’s 法蔵 point of view about Emptiness and Being. So far as the logic of synthesizing method is concerned, the Simmun hwajaeng non had an influence on Fazang’s Huayan wujiao zhang 華厳五教章.