The Tathāgata Taught Nothing

The Diamond Sutra’s claim that the Buddha did not teach anything, despite having taught for over 40 years, reflects the subtle and profound nature of Buddhist teachings, particularly in relation to the concept of “emptiness” (śūnyatā). The apparent contradiction between the Buddha’s extensive teachings and this assertion can be understood through several key points:

1. The Fluid Nature of Truth

The truth that the Buddha taught is like water — formless, adaptable, and changing based on the situation and the audience. Just as water takes the shape of its container, the Buddha’s teachings were tailored to the needs of different people at different times. The ultimate truth (Dharma) has no fixed form, and the Buddha, understanding the unique dispositions and capacities of his followers, shaped his teachings accordingly. This fluidity means that no single teaching can encapsulate the truth in its entirety. The Buddha’s words are not static doctrines but dynamic responses to the specific conditions of his listeners.

2. Emptiness of Teachings

Buddha’s teachings, like all phenomena, are “empty” (śūnyatā) — they have no intrinsic, fixed essence. This emptiness applies to teachings as well. A single teaching can act as a powerful medicine to one person, bringing insight and relief, while it may be irrelevant or even misleading…