The name "Sanlun" holds great significance in the Chinese Madhyamaka school, also known as the Three Treatise school. It is derived from the Chinese words "san" meaning three, and "lun" meaning treatise or discourse. This name refers to the three major treatises that form the foundation of this school's philosophy.

The first treatise is the "Treatise on the Middle Way" by Nagarjuna, a renowned Indian Buddhist philosopher. This treatise presents the concept of emptiness, which is the central theme of Madhyamaka philosophy. It states that all phenomena lack inherent existence and are dependent on causes and conditions. This treatise is considered the most important and influential work in the Madhyamaka tradition.

The second treatise is the "Treatise on the Twelve Gate Treatise" by Nagarjuna's disciple, Aryadeva. This text further elaborates on the concept of emptiness and also discusses the twelve links of dependent origination, which explain how suffering arises due to our attachment to the illusory nature of phenomena.

The third treatise is the "Treatise on the Great Perfection of Wisdom" by Vasubandhu, another Indian Buddhist philosopher. This treatise focuses on the perfection of wisdom, which is the understanding of emptiness and the ultimate nature of reality. It also discusses the concept of the two truths, conventional and ultimate, and how they relate to each other.

The name "Sanlun" not only refers to these three treatises but also reflects the emphasis on the Middle Way and the concept of emptiness in the Madhyamaka school. The Middle Way refers to the path between the extremes of eternalism and nihilism, and the Madhyamaka school teaches that ultimate reality lies beyond these extremes. Emptiness is the key to understanding this reality and breaking free from suffering and delusion.

Furthermore, the name "Sanlun" also highlights the Chinese influence on this school of thought. The Chinese scholars who studied and translated these texts into their language played a crucial role in spreading Madhyamaka philosophy in China. They also added their own interpretations and commentaries, which further enriched the tradition.

In conclusion, the name "Sanlun" represents the three major treatises, the focus on the Middle Way and emptiness, and the influence of Chinese scholars in the Chinese Madhyamaka school. It serves as a reminder of the rich philosophical heritage and the profound teachings of this tradition.