The Essentials of Nāgārjuna’s Middle Way
The Meaning of Emptiness in the Verses of the Mūlamadhyamakakārikā
Ven. Guo Goang will begin by explaining the source of emptiness—dependent origination—and why dependent origination is empty in nature. She will then draw upon verses from selected chapters of the Mūlamadhyamakakārikā, such as the Chapter on the Four Noble Truths, to give an in-depth explanation of the Madhyamaka (Middle Way) teachings on the emptiness of self and the emptiness of dharmas (phenomena). In particular, she will explain how the proper understanding of no-self and the emptiness of dependently arisen dharmas is not to be mistaken for anannihilationist (nihilistic) emptiness. Properly understood, Mahayana’s notion of emptiness (sunyata) refers to the ultimate emptiness, the true reality of all dharmas.
This Dharma retreat will provide a rare opportunity to understand Nāgārjuna’s teachings on emptiness through the commentary of an experienced Chan practitioner. Throughout her teachings Venerable Guo-Goang will trace the concept of emptiness from its origins in the Āgamas to Nāgārjuna’s Mūlamadhyamakakārikā.
Schedule as shown on the image above.
About Ven. Guo Goang:
Venerable Guo Goang was ordained in 1990 and received Dharma transmission from Chan Master Sheng Yen in 2005. She went for a solitary retreat in 2013 and returned to Dharma Drum Mountain as the Deputy Abbot in 2019. She currently is a senior teacher at the Chan Meditation Center, New York City.
Registration:
Click here to register for this event. [04/13/2026:] Registration is now closed. If you wish to be placed on the waitlist please contact us at: ddmbachicago@gmail.com. The registration includes a vegetarian lunch. The event is free, and your generous donation is warmly welcomed.
Check-in:
Check-in on Saturday and Sunday begins at 9:30 am.
Etiquette:
Shoes are not allowed inside of the Chan Hall (but can remain in the lobby, of course). For your comfort, we recommend loose, comfortable clothing and clean socks. We advise no jewelry (wedding bands are fine) or constricting stockings. You may remove your socks during the meditation sessions; meditations are traditionally done barefoot.
Please be mindful that the retreat is a scent-free event and avoid the use of perfume and/or cologne the day of retreat.
If you have any questions, please email Iris Wang: iwang123@yahoo.com.