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**DghtRdc** · 02-16-2011, 05:20 PM

I found this definition of 'Buddha Nature'.

"Buddha-nature or Buddha Principle (Buddha-dhātu), is taught, within Mahayana Buddhism, to be an intrinsic, immortal potential for reaching enlightenment that exists within the mind of every sentient being.

Buddha-nature is not to be confused with the concept of Atman, or Self, but instead is viewed to be empty of defining characteristics (also see Sunyata and Nondualism)."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha-nature

I also saw it described in the glossary of a book as -"Unrealised enlightened mind, the essential nature of all sentient beings."

What does "immortal potential" mean - and how can the potential (and fruition) for reaching enlightenment exist in the mind of an ant or a fish?

Did the Buddha teach about "Buddha Nature"?

Comments ?

02-16-2011, 05:20 PM	#1
DghtRdc Join Date Oct 2005 Posts 517 Senior Member	What does "Buddha Nature?"mean ? I found this definition of 'Buddha Nature'. "Buddha-nature or Buddha Principle (Buddha-dhātu), is taught, within Mahayana Buddhism, to be an intrinsic, immortal potential for reaching enlightenment that exists within the mind of every sentient being. Buddha-nature is not to be confused with the concept of Atman, or Self, but instead is viewed to be empty of defining characteristics (also see Sunyata and Nondualism)." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha-nature I also saw it described in the glossary of a book as -"Unrealised enlightened mind, the essential nature of all sentient beings." What does "immortal potential" mean - and how can the potential (and fruition) for reaching enlightenment exist in the mind of an ant or a fish? Did the Buddha teach about "Buddha Nature"? Comments ?
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