parikalpasvabhava

Parikalpasvabhava is a concept in Buddhist philosophy, particularly prominent in Mahayana Buddhism, which refers to the non-existence of a separate self or ego. The term is derived from the Sanskrit words "parikalpa," meaning "conception" or "idea," and "svabhava," meaning "nature" or "essence." The concept is central to the Buddhist understanding of the self and the nature of reality.

In Mahayana Buddhism, the self is understood as a composite of various mental and physical elements, rather than a permanent, unchanging entity. This understanding is based on the doctrine of dependent origination (pratītya-samutpāda), which teaches that all phenomena arise in dependence upon causes and conditions, and that there is no permanent, independent self.

Parikalpasvabhava challenges the idea of a permanent, unchanging self, arguing that the self is a construct of the mind, subject to change and impermanence. This understanding has significant implications for the practice of Buddhism, as it encourages practitioners to cultivate wisdom and compassion towards all beings, rather than clinging to a sense of self.

The concept of parikalpasvabhava is closely related to other Mahayana doctrines, such as emptiness (śūnyatā) and the nature of mind (citta). It is also connected to the practice of meditation, which aims to cultivate insight into the true nature of reality and the self.

In summary, parikalpasvabhava is a fundamental concept in Mahayana Buddhism that challenges the idea of a permanent, unchanging self, encouraging practitioners to cultivate wisdom and compassion towards all beings. It is based on the doctrine of dependent origination and is closely related to other Mahayana doctrines and practices.