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sunyata

noun
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sun·​ya·​ta | \ ˈshu̇nyəˌtä \
plural -s

Definition of sunyata

1 Buddhism : the nonexistence of the elements of things and of the self
2 : ultimate truth or reality interpreted (as in Madhyamika) as absolutely devoid of distinguishing characteristics and beyond even being and nonbeing : the transcendental void

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History and Etymology for sunyata

Sanskrit śūnyatā, literally, emptiness, void, from śūnya empty, void

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Cite this Entry

“Sunyata.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sunyata. Accessed 6 Jul. 2022.

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