Śūnyatā, or emptiness, points to the fact that all phenomena are empty of any fixed, independent, or permanent self‑nature. This does not mean that nothing exists, nor does it endorse a nihilistic nothingness. Rather, it describes how things exist: they appear, function, and can be spoken of, yet when examined deeply, no separate, unchanging essence can be found. Emptiness thus names the absence of inherent existence in everything that is experienced, whether physical or mental, gross or subtle.

This insight is grounded in dependent origination, the teaching that all things arise due to causes, conditions, and conceptual designation. Because whatever exists does so only in dependence upon other factors, nothing can stand alone or from its own side. In this sense, emptiness is simply another way of saying that what is dependently arisen is devoid of intrinsic identity. Even the notion of a solid, enduring “self” is revealed to be a composite of changing processes, lacking any permanent core.

Within this vision, two levels of truth are distinguished. On the conventional level, people, mountains, thoughts, and relationships all function and can be meaningfully engaged with; karma, ethics, and spiritual practice operate within this domain. On the ultimate level, when these same phenomena are analyzed, they are seen to lack inherent, independent existence; that very lack is what is called emptiness. Both levels are valid in their own sphere, and wisdom consists in holding them together without confusion.

Emptiness is described as a Middle Way that avoids the extremes of eternalism and nihilism. Eternalism mistakenly attributes a permanent, unchanging essence to things, while nihilism denies their conventional reality and efficacy. Emptiness shows that phenomena exist conventionally and interdependently, yet are empty of any solid, self‑contained nature. This understanding allows cause and effect, interdependence, and spiritual development to remain fully meaningful.

Realizing emptiness is not merely an abstract philosophical exercise; it has a deeply practical and liberating role. Grasping at inherent existence—especially the belief in a truly existent self—gives rise to attachment, aversion, and ignorance, which are the roots of suffering. Insight into emptiness loosens this grasping, giving rise to wisdom that naturally supports compassion. In the Mahāyāna vision, such realization underlies the bodhisattva path and is essential for the attainment of Buddhahood.