[T]he interdependence of phenomena means that ultimately one depends on all and all depend on one, whether immediately or remotely; therefore, the existence of all is considered an intrinsic part of the existence of one, and vice versa. (p. 1530)
Excerpted from "Technical Terminology and Symbolism" in The Flower Ornament Scripture: A Translation of the Avatamsaka Sutra
by Thomas ClearyThe realm of phenomena refers to all things and events. The realm of noumenon refers to the essence of things in themselves. [...] The realm of mutual noninterference of noumenon and phenomena means that since phenomena are products of causes and are interdependent and have no absolute individual existence, therefore they are all empty or void of intrinsic nature. (p. 1530)
Excerpted from "Technical Terminology and Symbolism" in The Flower Ornament Scripture: A Translation of the Avatamsaka Sutra by Thomas Cleary
Treasury of Virtue
- Giving or generosity
- Morality, self-control, or discipline
- Forbearance, patience, or tolerance
- Energy or effort
- Meditation or concentration
Treasury of Knowledge
- Wisdom or transcendental knowledge
Sphere of More Advanced Enlightenment
- Means, which includes skill in application and liberation of other people
- Vows, involving the determination to seek enlightenment and help others realize their own enlightenment
- Power, that is, powers of mental cultivation and ascertainment
- Knowledge, including metaphysical knowledge and practical knowledge of the sciences of developing and maturing people
The ways of transcendence may be presented as a progression, but they can only be completed and perfected in conjunction with each other; this is an important aspect of the Flower Garland doctrine of interdependence. (pp. 1525-1526)
Excerpted from "Technical Terminology and Symbolism" in The Flower Ornament Scripture: A Translation of the Avatamsaka Sutra by Thomas Cleary