Emptiness 空性

In Buddhist philosophy, "Emptiness" is a profound and central concept, particularly emphasized in Mahayana Buddhism. It does not imply "nothingness" or the absence of existence. Instead, it points to the idea that all phenomena, such as success and failure, gain and loss, victory and defeat, poverty and wealth, noble and base, beauty and ugliness, life and death, etc., are not inherent or independent existences. In other words, everything exists interdependently, arising through causes and conditions, and is fundamentally impermanent and subject to change.
在佛教哲學中，「空性」是一個深刻而核心的概念，大乘佛教尤其強調這一點。它並不意味著“虛無”或不存在。相反，它指出一切現象，例如成敗、得失、勝負、貧富、貴賤、美醜、生死等等，都不是固有或獨立存在的。換句話說，一切事物都是相互依存、因緣而生，本質上都是無常且變化的。

Imagine a clay pot please! At first glance, it seems like the pot is a solid, independent object. But upon deeper examination, its existence depends on many conditions: the clay, the potter, the tools, the fire, and even the space inside it, which gives it its usefulness. The clay pot is not inherently "a clay pot" by itself, but a temporary arrangement of causes and conditions. Without these elements, it could never be a clay pot.
請想像出一個陶罐。乍一看，這個罐子似乎是一個堅固的、獨立的物體。但經過深入研究，它的存在取決於許多條件：黏土、陶工、工具、火，甚至它內部的空間，這些都賦予了它用途。陶罐並非本來就是“陶罐”，而是因緣條件暫時安排而成的。如果沒有這些元素，它就不可能成為一個陶罐。

This interconnected nature of the clay pot reflects "Emptiness": Lacks of an inherent and fixed essence. Its existence is entirely dependent on other factors. Similarly, all things and phenomena in life arise and exist interdependently, with no intrinsic or permanent identity.

陶罐的這種相互連結的特性反映了「空性」：缺乏內在的並且固定的本質。它的存在完全依賴其他因素。同樣，生活中的所有事物和現像都是相互依存、相互產生的，沒有內在或永恆的特性。

Again! Think about the relationship between a parent and a child. At first, we might see the parent as an independent entity and the child as another. But the identity of "parent" can only exist because of the child, and vice versa—their roles arise interdependently. Without one, the other has no meaning in this context.
再來！思考一下父母與孩子之間的關係。一開始，我們可能會將父母視為一個獨立的實體，而將孩子視為另一個實體。但「父母」的身份只有因為孩子而存在，反之亦然 -- 他們的角色是相互依存的。如果缺少了其中一個，那麼另一個在這個脈絡中就沒有意義。

This illustrates Emptiness of the identities because neither the parent nor the child has an intrinsic identity independent of the other. Their existence as "parent" or "child" is relational and mutual dependence, which is shaped by causes and conditions.

這就說明了身分的空性，因為父母和孩子都沒有獨立於對方的內在身分。他們作為「父母」或「孩子」的存在是一種關係和相互依賴，是由原因和條件形成的。

Emptiness teaches us to transcend rigid notions of reality and self-identity, guiding practitioners to see the world as fluid, interconnected, and free from fixed boundaries. This understanding serves as a cornerstone for cultivating wisdom and compassion, as the ignorance of emptiness in reality often leads to suffering.
空性教導我們超越現實和自我認同的僵化觀念，引導修行者將世界視為流動的、相互連結的、沒有固定界線的。這種理解是培養智慧和同情心的基石，因為對現實中的空性缺乏認知常常會導致痛苦。

The ultimate realization of Emptiness is not merely intellectual; it is a direct experience that transforms how one perceives and engages with life. Through practices such as Zen meditation and mindfulness, one begins to see the interdependent nature of existence and to embrace the freedom and peace that arises from letting go of clinging and false notions of permanence.
最終對空性的認知不僅僅是理性的；這是一種直接的體驗，可以改變人們看待和參與生活的方式。透過禪修和正念等練習，人們開始看到存在的相互依存性，並接受放棄執著和錯誤的永恆觀念而產生的自由與和平。

Zen meditation 禪修

Zen meditation, or Zazen, is a practice that emphasizes observing one's thoughts. It is never emptying one's mind during practice as other mainstream meditation practices suggest. The goal of Zen meditation is to increase awareness and insight into the nature of the mind and heart. Here are some reasons for taking this approach:

禪修，或坐禪，是一種強調觀察自己思想的修行。它絕不像其他主流冥想練習所建議的那樣在練習過程中清空大腦。禪修的目的是提高對思想和心靈本質的認識和洞察力。以下是採用這種方法的一些原因：

Understanding the Nature of Thought: Observing thoughts allows practitioners to gain insights into the nature of their own minds. It reveals how thoughts are transient and impermanent, helping individuals to understand that they are not their thoughts. This realization can reduce attachment and aversion to thoughts and emotions.

了解思想的本質：思想的觀察可以讓修行者洞察自己思想的本質。它揭示了思想是如何短暫和無常的，並幫助人們理解這些思想不是他們的想法。認識這一點可以減少對思想和情感的執著和厭惡。

Cultivating Non-attachment: By recognizing thoughts without judgment (that is, let the thoughts without identification, such as good or bad), practitioners learn to let go of attachments and judgments. This non-attachment can lead to greater emotional resilience and a sense of inner peace.

培養不執著：透過對想法不帶批判（即對想法不做好壞等識別）的認識，修行者學會放下執著和評判。這種不執著可以帶來更強的情緒復原力和內心的平靜感。

Encouraging a Non-dual Perspective: There is a focus on the non-dual nature of reality in Zen meditation, where the distinctions between self and other, and thought and experience, blur. Observing thoughts helps cultivate a perspective that transcends binary thinking. This can lead to a more compassionate and non-judgmental attitude towards oneself and others without unnecessary resistance.

鼓勵非二元視角：禪修注重現實中的非二元性，其中自我與他人、思想與經驗之間的界線變得模糊。觀察思想有助於培養超越二元思維的觀點。這可以為自己和他人帶來更加富有同情心和不帶批判的態度，並且不會產生不必要的阻力。

Developing Concentration and Insight: The practice of self-observation helps enhance concentration and insight. It encourages mindfulness, which is the practice of being fully present and aware at each moment. This is the wisdom and core teachings of Buddhism and is seen as a path to enlightenment that helps in living a more conscious and intentional life.

培養專注力和洞察力：在自我觀察上的實踐有助於提高專注力和洞察力。這鼓勵正念，即在每一刻都全心投入並保持警覺的練習。這是佛教的智慧和核心教義，有助於過著更有意識和更有目的的生活，是通往開悟的道路。

In essence, Buddhist Zen meditation aims to develop a profound understanding of the mind and achieve a state of awareness, peace, and insight. It's a journey of self-discovery and transformation through mindful observation that guides practitioners toward insight and enlightenment ultimately.

從本質上來說，佛教禪修的目的是加深對心靈的理解，並達到一種覺知、平和和洞察的狀態。這是一段透過專注觀察進行自我發現和轉變的旅程，最終引導修行者獲得洞察力和啟蒙。

The "first thought" from Buddhism & the "first principles thinking" from Elon Musk 佛教的「第一念」與伊隆·馬斯克的「第一性原則思維」

In our journey through life and innovation, the concept of starting from a fundamental, unclouded perspective holds significant importance. Two fascinating examples of this are the "first thought" in Buddhism and "first principles thinking" by Elon Musk. Allow me to make a brief introduction to these two concepts and uncover their similarities.

在我們的人生和創新旅程中，從根本上、清晰的視角出發這一理念具有重要意義。兩個非常有趣的例子就是佛教中的「第一念」和伊隆馬斯克的「第一性原則思維」。就讓我簡介一下這兩個概念，並揭示它們的相似之處吧。

In Buddhism, the concept of "first thought" refers to the initial cognitive development or the very first mental activity that arises in the womb. It signifies the beginning of consciousness and existence. (This concept is also linked to the initial perception or opinion held by young monks regarding the assembly of the elders.) Essentially, it's about the purity and freshness of the first moment of perception, before it gets clouded by judgments and interpretations.

在佛教中，「第一念」的概念是指在子宮中產生的最初的認知發展或第一個心理活動。它標誌著意識和存在的開始。這個概念也與年輕僧侶對長老集會的最初看法或觀點有關。本質上，它是感知的第一刻，在因為作出判斷或解釋而被蒙蔽之前的純粹性和新鮮感。

Elon Musk's "first principles thinking" is a problem-solving approach that involves breaking down complex problems into their most fundamental truths and building up solutions from there. Instead of relying on analogies or past trends, Musk focuses on basic, undeniable facts to innovate and find solutions. For instance, he reduced the cost of rockets produce by examining the components and materials at their core level.

伊降馬斯克的「第一性原則思維」是一種解決問題的方法，包括將複雜問題分解為最基本的真相，並從那裡建立解決方案。馬斯克並不依賴類比或過去的趨勢，而是專注於基本的、無可否認的事實來進行創新或建立解決方案。例如，他通過從核心零件和材料的檢查來降低火箭的生產成本。

Both concepts emphasize starting from a fundamental, unclouded perspective. Their similarities are in the following aspects: 

這兩個概念都強調從根本的、清晰的視角出發。它們的相似之處如下： 

Purity of Perception - Both the "first thought" in Buddhism and "first principles thinking" focus on the initial, unfiltered perception or truth.

感知的純粹性－佛教中的「第一念」和馬斯克的「第一性原則思維」都注重最初的、未經過濾的感知或真理。

Breaking Down Complexity - Both approaches involve breaking down complex ideas or problems into their simplest forms to understand and address them better.

分解複雜性－兩者都涉及將複雜的想法或問題分解為最簡單的形式，以便更好地理解和解決它們。

Foundation for Further Development - In Buddhism, the first thought is the foundation for further spiritual development, while in Musk's thinking, it's the foundation for innovative solutions.

進一步發展的基礎－在佛教中，第一念是進一步精神發展的基礎；而在馬斯克的想法中，第一性原則思維是革新解決方案的基礎。

In simple terms, both concepts are the wisdom of starting from a pure, fundamental perspective that can be applied to various aspects of life and innovation. By embracing the essence of "first thought" and "first principles thinking," we can uncover new insights and create impactful solutions.

簡單來說，這兩個概念都是從純粹的、根本的角度出發的智慧，都可以運用在生活和創新的各個方面。透過擁抱「第一念」和「第一性原則思維」的精髓，我們可以發現新的見解並創造有影響力的解決方案。

Due to my limited ability to explain, I can make a brief introduction only here to these two concepts. However, relevant discussions and detailed articles can be found online. Hope that all of you may benefit from finding and reading these articles.

我的講解能力有限，這裡只能對這兩個概念做一個簡單的介紹。不過，在網路上可以找到相關的討論和詳細的文章。希望大家找到並閱讀這些文章後都能獲益。

Lantern Festival 元宵節

The Lantern Festival is coming 2 days later, it is a traditional Chinese festival that marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations. It falls on the 15th day of the first month in the lunar calendar, which usually corresponds to February or early March in the Gregorian calendar.

過兩天是元宵節，是中國傳統節日，標誌著農曆新年慶祝活動的結束。農曆正月十五，通常對應公曆的二月或三月初。

On the last day of the traditional Lunar New Year, the public markets and the backyards of wealthy homes will set up colorful lanterns in the shapes of animals, flowers, or mythical creatures using paper, bamboos and paste. Some of the lanterns have riddles written on them for people to solve. Under the firecrackers that around the lion-dances, young lovers will meet up to watch the lanterns after their family dinner under the firecrackers around the lion-dances.

在傳統農曆新年的最後一天，公共市場和富裕家庭的後院會掛上用紙、竹子和漿糊製作的動物、花朵或神話人物形狀的彩色燈籠。有些燈籠上寫有謎語，供人們解答。在舞獅鞭炮聲中，年輕的情侶們會在吃完家庭晚餐後相聚在一起賞燈。

However,  considered to the state of transport, and the risks of fire in a crowded population, the setting off of firecrackers is restricted nowadays. And the traditional techniques of hand-made paper lanterns have already been replaced by factories. Lucky, one of the traditional foods that could have been tasted only in traditional festivals, Tong Yuan, can be tasted at any time nowadays. This is glutinous rice balls filled with sweet or savory fillings like sesame paste, red bean paste, or minced meat, and symbolizes family unity and togetherness.

考慮到交通狀況以及人群擁擠時發生火災的風險，燃放鞭炮如今已受到限制。並且傳統的手工製作紙燈籠的工藝也已經被工廠生產所取代。幸運的是，以前只有傳統節日才能吃到的傳統食品之一，湯丸，如今隨時都可以吃到。這是一種糯米丸子，裡面填滿了芝麻醬、紅豆醬或肉末等甜味或鹹味的餡料，象徵著家庭團結和團聚。

For me, the Lantern Festival is also the day I mourn my master. The honorable monk Hsing Yun, the Founder of Fo Guang Shan, passed away during the Lantern Festival in 2023.

對我來說，元宵節也是我悼念師父的日子。佛光山創始人星雲大師於2023年元宵節圓寂。

Conflicts Between Modern Life and Traditional Festivals 現代生活與傳統節慶的衝突

As the Lunar New Year approaches, I find clashes between traditional and modern life become pronounced in cognition, views, values, life patterns, etc.
隨著農曆新年的臨近，我發現傳統生活和現代生活的衝突在認知、觀點、價值觀、生活模式等方面變得更加明顯。

Cognition: In the fast-paced world we live in, our cognitive frameworks have evolved. The ways we perceive and process information have been shaped by technology and globalization. The Lunar New Year, with its deep-rooted customs and rituals, sometimes feels distant to those who are immersed in the digital age. While these customs still hold significance, they often compete with modern rationalism and scientific thinking. This shift in cognition presents a challenge in maintaining the essence of the festival while embracing the advancements of the present.
認知：在我們所處的快節奏世界中，我們的認知框架已經改變了。我們感知和處理資訊的方式已經受到科技和全球化的影響。農曆新年有著根深蒂固的風俗和儀式，但對於沉浸在數位時代的人來說，它有時顯得遙遠。雖然這些習俗仍具有重要意義，但它們常常與現代理性主義和科學思維相衝突。這種認知的轉變對如何在擁抱當代的進步的同時保持節日的本質提出了挑戰。

Values: Traditional festivals like the Lunar New Year are steeped in values and performances of a great family, togetherness, and respect for ancestors. However, modern life, with its emphasis on individualism and career aspirations, can sometimes overshadow these values. The hustle and bustle of daily routines, coupled with the demands of work and personal ambitions, can make it difficult to fully immerse oneself in the spirit of the festival. Furthermore, some traditional customs may have adverse effects, such as excessive frying of food during festivals may affect health, and inappropriate throwing of firecrackers may cause fires or public casualties. Indeed, it is painful to choose between honoring traditional values and accommodating modern priorities.
價值觀：農曆新年等傳統節日蘊含著大家庭、團結和尊重祖先的價值觀和表現。然而，現代生活強調個人主義和職業抱負，有時會掩蓋這些價值觀。日常生活的忙碌，加上工作和個人抱負的要求，會讓人很難完全沉浸在節慶的氣氛中。此外，一些傳統習俗也可能帶來不良影響，例如節慶期間過度的煎炸食物會影響健康；不當地燃放爆竹可能引發火災或造成公眾傷亡。的確，在尊重傳統價值觀和適應現代優先事項之間做出選擇是痛苦的。

Life Patterns: The rhythm of life during traditional Chinese festivals often contrasts sharply with the tempo of modern existence. The Lunar New Year calls for a slower pace and the observance of age-old customs. In contrast, the relentless speed of modern life leaves little room for such pauses. It is a huge challenge to keep harmony between the traditions that connect us to our cultural roots without disrupting the flow of our contemporary lives.
生活規律：傳統中國節日的生活節奏往往與現代生活的節奏形成鮮明對比。農曆新年要求我們放慢節奏並遵守古老的習俗。相較之下，現代生活的急速發展讓我們幾乎沒有時間進行這樣的停頓。在不擾亂我們當代的生活節奏下，保持將我們與文化根源聯繫起來的傳統的和諧，是一個巨大的挑戰。

The way to reduce the conflict between tradition and reality is to be aware that reunion can be without a designated time and place. Virtual gatherings, online cultural events, and digital storytelling can bring the spirit of the Lunar New Year or other festivals into the modern era without giving up the realities of modern life. Technology can help with the expression of festival greetings, preserve and promote cultural practices, and make them more accessible to younger generations.
減少傳統與現實衝突的方法就是認識到團聚可以不限時間和地點。虛擬聚會、線上文化活動和數位化故事敘述可以將農曆新年或其他節日的精神帶入現代，同時又不放棄現代生活的現實。科技可以幫助表達節慶祝福，保護和推廣文化習俗，並使年輕一代更容易接觸到這些習俗。

Wish everyone a happy and safe Lunar New Year.
祝願大家都有一個愉快又安全的農曆新年。