“Just as it is known
That an image of one's face is seen
Depending on a mirror
But does not really exist as a face,
So the conception of "I" exists
Dependent on mind and body,
But like the image of a face
The "I" does not at all exist as its own reality.”
― Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250)
“All philosophies are mental fabrications. There has never been a single doctrine by which one could enter the true essence of things.”
― Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250)
“Since all is empty, all is possible.”
― Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250)
“Although you may spend your life killing, you will not exhaust all your foes. But if you quell your own anger, your real enemy will be slain.”
― Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250)
“I am not, I will not be.
I have not, I will not have.
This frightens all children,
And kills fear in the wise.”
― Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250)
“Whatever is dependently co-arisen
That is explained to be emptiness.
That, being a dependent designation
Is itself the Middle Way.”
― Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250)
“if an astronomer calculates from the sky
he will ascertain the paths of the moon and the stars;
but in his house the womenfolk are at variance,
and he does not perceive their various misconduct.”
― Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250)
"Learn to distinguish what should be done and what not; The clever soul will always select his opportunity."
― Nāgārjuna (c. 150-250)