When many people hear the phrase "Form is Emptiness", they tend to interpret "form" only as beauty or carnal desire, which is a popular misunderstanding.
In the Heart Sutra, "form" refers to the entire material world we perceive. Mountains, trees, ornaments, our bodies, wealth and fame all belong to form.
"Emptiness" does not mean that nothing exists. It means nothing has a fixed, permanent, unchanging nature. All things arise from a combination of conditions, and everything is always flowing, transforming, appearing and fading away.
Most of our suffering comes from our attachment. We believe things will last forever. We assume possessions, relationships, youth and status will stay unchanged. When reality changes, strong attachment turns into loss, anxiety and sorrow.
"Form is Emptiness" does not ask us to reject, hate or run away from the real world.
It accepts that everything we see is real, yet reminds us not to be trapped by appearances. You may appreciate beauty, cherish people, and live fully, but do not cling tightly. Do not drown in endless pain once you lose something.
To witness the prosperity of the world, while knowing its impermanence. Live within the world, yet remain free from its bondage, this is the everyday wisdom behind "Form is Emptiness".
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