試論中國佛教心性論一個合宜的理解模式──以「信仰實踐」為進路

A Brief Discussion of a Proper Understanding of the Chinese Buddhist Theory of Mind

近現代學者以初期佛教之義理，以及歷史考證的方式批判如來藏說，或者以邏輯理性、經驗事實質疑本覺思想之不合理或不符合現實經驗，本文對此提出反省，認為從信仰實踐的觀點作考量，應是較為適切的方式。換言之，中國佛教的「心性本淨」主張，未必著眼於真實面的描述，卻還包含價值實現的理想面，而若純然以理論理性來論究、探討心性問題，可能即有所限制。換言之，後期佛教心性本淨、自性具足等命題，未必是從理性、經驗求取驗證的，而可說是一種信仰的預設；透過信仰之實踐，並從實踐中獲得實際效益，應是其所要傳達的重要意涵。此如同上帝之存在，未必是可透過論辯而達到共識，而是藉由信仰的踐履，去體認、默會上帝存在的微言深義。意即，從信仰實踐中實際獲益，得到安身立命，引導生命的寧靜與喜樂，此才是宗教命題背後之真實意義。

This paper briefly reflects on the criticisms raised against the Chinese Buddhist theory of Buddha Nature. Instead of attempting to gain an understanding of the theory of Buddha Nature via logical analysis or empirical verification, I suggest that it may be best understood from the viewpoint of spiritual practice. And even so, it may not be appropriate to merely interpret this theory according to the doctrines of Early Buddhism or to evaluate it by means of textual research alone. Since the Chinese Buddhist theory of Innate Purity of Mind is based on a realization of value and ideals rather than mere factual description, we would encounter serious limitations by attempting to investigate this theory through theoretical reasoning alone. Innate Purity of Mind is a spiritual postulate of which the truth can only be actualized through practice. As is the case with argumentation in support of the existence of God, it is not easy to reach consensus on Innate Purity of Mind since its meaning and benefits largely depend on practical reason. Just as the belief in God makes it possible for a follower to experience peace and happiness, the theory of Innate Purity of Mind allows a practitioner to experience peace and happiness, too. Yet, the true meaning of Innate Purity of Mind, just like the true meaning of God, can only be revealed once the experience of peace and happiness has been achieved.