The Difference in the Theories of the Two Truths of Zhizang 智蔵 and Jizang 吉蔵

Abstract

This paper compares the theories of the Two Truths of Jizang (吉蔵, 549–623) and Zhizang (智蔵, 458–522), and considers the differences between them.

Jizang criticized Zhizang’s theory of the Two Truths intensely. The reason is that Zhizang was influenced by the Sanlun school. At first, the Paramārtha satya (ultimate truth) was made the essence of the Two Truths, but Zhizang changed the essence of the Two Truths to the Middle Path, in accord with Sanlun ideas. So the theories are same, but the contents differ.

Zhizang’s Middle Path is the truth which transcends the Two Truths (the Third Truth). It is the first cause from which all others are created. On the other hand, Jizang’s Middle Path is inseparable from the Two Truths. Zhizang considered the ultimate truth and worldly truth (lokasaṃvṛti satya) as “Truth,” but Jizang considered them as “Doctrine.” Therefore Jizang differs from Zhizang, and does not consider the Third Truth.