The Significance of Xiangru

Xiangru means that appearances are manifestations of Suchness, possessing some attributes and essence of Suchness. From appearances, one should recognize the existence of Suchness, for appearances are illusory transformations of Suchness. Perceiving appearances should lead to perceiving Suchness. For example, a child is born from its mother; seeing the child should evoke thoughts of the mother. The relationship between the child and the mother is neither identical nor different. Similarly, the relationship between appearances and Suchness is neither identical nor different. "Neither identical" means that the appearances of all dharmas are not entirely Suchness. "Nor different" means that the appearances of all dharmas are connected to, related to, and part of Suchness.

If they were identical, then when the appearances of dharmas cease, Suchness would also cease. Since Suchness can produce all appearances of dharmas, then the appearances of dharmas should also be able to replace Suchness in producing all dharmas. However, reality is not so. If appearances and Suchness were different, then appearances would not originate from Suchness. Without the sustaining power of Suchness, appearances would cease and could not exist. Suchness is formless and without characteristics, while all dharmas possess characteristics. The two have differences and are significantly distinct. The essential nature of Suchness cannot be replaced by the illusory appearances of dharmas. The relationship between all appearances of dharmas and Suchness is one of neither identity nor difference, encompassing both aspects of oneness and difference. Therefore, one must not emphasize one aspect while neglecting or denying the other. All appearances of dharmas and Suchness share aspects of oneness and aspects of difference; they are both one and different. Only by combining these perspectives can the understanding be correct.