Ku(empty)

　Kū (空) is a concept from East Asian philosophical and spiritual traditions, most notably Buddhism, which is often translated into English as “emptiness” or “void”. It’s important to note that the translations may not fully capture the depth and nuances of the original concept.

　In Buddhism, the concept of Kū is fundamental and is intricately linked with the doctrine of dependent origination and the notion of non-self (Anatta). It does not mean emptiness in the sense of a complete lack or nothingness, but rather denotes the idea that all phenomena are void of an independent, intrinsic nature. That is, all things arise due to conditions, and they cease when these conditions are no longer present. Hence, all phenomena are “empty” of independent existence.

　The concept of Kū is central to many branches of Buddhism, especially Mahayana Buddhism. The Heart Sutra, one of the most important texts in Mahayana Buddhism, famously states “form is emptiness, emptiness is form,” pointing to the interdependent nature of all phenomena and the ultimate emptiness of all dharmas (phenomena).

　In Zen Buddhism, the concept of Kū is also important and often used in teachings and koans (paradoxical anecdotes or riddles used in Zen practice to demonstrate the inadequacy of logical reasoning and provoke enlightenment).

　In Japanese aesthetic, Kū is often reflected in the use of empty space, emphasizing minimalism and the idea that emptiness is filled with potentiality.

　Understanding Kū can be challenging because it goes against many of our common sense assumptions about the world. However, it’s key to many Eastern philosophical and spiritual insights.