Understanding Principle and Phenomenon

Question: The phenomena arising from causes and conditions are each distinct and clear. The principle of the Dharma-realm is inherently without abiding. If we cling to either existence or emptiness as one-sided, our understanding of essence and function will be clumsy. Ultimately, both phenomena and principle are united as non-dual. To eliminate this error, we should illuminate the profound truth.

Private response: The phenomena of conditioned arising must inherently encompass principle in order to manifest. The profound truth of the Dharma-realm also appears as emptiness dependent on conditions. Existence and emptiness interpenetrate fully; essence and function penetrate each other mysteriously. When we speak of phenomena, they reach the source of emptiness; when we discuss existence, emptiness extends beyond the surface of existence. Sometimes both are negated together—nothing, even a trace, remains. Sometimes each supports the other—vast and expansive teachings are seen together. It is revealed that principle fully encompasses phenomena and fully negates phenomena to become principle itself. Phenomena are not separate things; things embody principle and thereby become phenomena. How could it be otherwise that emptiness appears alongside existence, and principle follows phenomena in manifestation? When viewed through the single perspective of interpenetration, all things can be firmly established. This is my respectful response.