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1 " Emptiness does not imply non-existence; emptiness implies the emptiness of intrinsic existence, which necessarily implies dependent origination. Dependence and interdependence is the nature of all things; things and events come into being only as a result of causes and conditions. Emptiness makes the law of cause and effect possible. "
― Thupten Jinpa , Essence of the Heart Sutra: The Dalai Lama's Heart of Wisdom Teachings
2 " All things originate dependently. Because all things originate dependently, one can observe cause and effect. Cause and effect are only possible in a world that is dependently originated, and dependent origination is only possible in a world that is devoid of intrinsic existence, which is to say in a world that is empty. Therefore, we can say that emptiness is form, which is another way of saying that form arises from emptiness, and emptiness is the basis that allows the dependent origination of form. Thus the world of form is a manifestation of emptiness. "
3 " The way we tend to perceive things to be does not accord with the way they are. Again, this does not nihilistically deny the fact of our experience. The existence of things and events is not in dispute; it is the manner in which they exist that must be clarified. "
4 " The reference in the text to “noble sons and noble daughters” has additional significance that modern practitioners should bear in mind. This phrase clearly indicates that as far as efficacy of the practice of the perfection of wisdom is concerned, there is no difference based on gender. In fact, this is true as well for all key aspects of the Buddhist path. For example, let us examine the Vinaya teachings on ethics and monastic discipline, which are so essential to the continued survival of the Buddhadharma. "
5 " In fact, as human beings, we are by nature social animals, and our happiness and even survival depend upon our interaction and cooperation. So when positive emotions guide intelligence, it become constructive. The warm, compassionate heart is the basis for peace of mind, without which the mind will always be uncomfortable and disturbed. "
6 " Such veneration, however, is not accorded to the person himself because of his own greatness, but rather is accorded to the teaching that the teacher embodies and exemplifies. "