The Two Truths Debate

The Middle Way is a central idea for all Buddhists, yet its definition varies across Buddhist cultures. In Tibetan Buddhism, the interpretation of what are called the two truths — the truth of conventional appearances and the ultimate truth of emptiness — is especially contentious. This comparative analysis examines the differing approaches toward the Middle Way taken by the two great Buddhist scholars, Tsongkhapa and Gorampa. It demonstrates how philosophical positions have dramatic implications both for how one approaches Buddhist practice and for how one ultimately understands enlightenment itself.