Ippai stands for “[unparalleled in history (unparallelled)“.
Basic Meaning:
- It is a way to consider two possibilities, “one” (same) and “different” (different), and to argue that both are not valid.
Objective:
- The purpose of this argument is to deny the fixed nature or substance of things and to show the reason of emptiness (śūnyatā).
Example of application:
- For example, it is used to examine the relationship between the ego (atman) and the five skandhas:
- If the ego is identical (one) with the five skandhas, then the ego must be impermanent like the five skandhas.
- If the ego were different (different) from the five skandhas, it would not have the characteristics of the five skandhas, and its existence could not be confirmed.
- see contemplation (on a Buddhist statue)
Logical development:
- Examine the possibility of “one” (identical) and point out any inconsistencies.
- Examine the possibility of “different” (different) and point out inconsistencies as well.
- The negation of both possibilities denies the substantive existence of the object.
Relation to the Middle View philosophy:
- This method is used frequently in Ryuju’s Chūron, and is a logical means of developing the idea of the Middle Way.
Relationship to other arguments:
- It is closely related to other middle-view arguments such as “four-phrase discrimination” and “how to find the five types.”
Practical Significance:
- Through this argument, the goal is to break through attachment and stereotype and gain deeper insight and wisdom.
ICHIHIMONBUKU is a powerful thinking tool for deeply exploring the nature of things and transcending fixed perspectives. It allows one to better understand the interdependence of phenomena and the nature of the sky.
Logical structure:
- This method usually involves the following logical development
- If things are completely identical (one), they cannot account for change or diversity.
- If things are completely different (dissimilar), then we cannot account for relationships and continuity.
- Thus, things are ultimately neither “one” nor “different.”
Example of application:
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For example, when considering the process of human development:
- If one is always the same (one), then growth and change cannot be explained.
- If one changes into a completely different (hetero)being, then one cannot explain the continuity of the individual.
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Ship of Theseus みがある
On the “Chūron” Kampōshin. - Buddhist sect originating in the seventh century / contemplation (on a Buddhist statue) / Kenzo Tahara
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The chapter begins with a discussion of the “one-way problem” between the “five skandhas” and “atman,” which was called “one-way gate-breaking” by Kichizo, and uses this as the basis for developing the conditions of selflessness (nirahamkara) and no-self (nirmana).
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