Two Truths

Two Truths (Dvasatya) is a fundamental Buddhist doctrine distinguishing between conventional truth (samvriti-satya) and ultimate truth (paramartha-satya).

Overview

Conventional truth describes the everyday reality of appearances and language. Ultimate truth reveals the emptiness (sunyata) of all phenomena.

Philosophical Context

In Madhyamaka philosophy, the two truths are not separate realities but two ways of understanding the same reality. Conventional truth is necessary for communication and practical life, while ultimate truth leads to liberation.

Interpretations

The two truths doctrine is central to Madhyamaka and Yogacara schools. It prevents both eternalism (clinging to permanent reality) and nihilism (denying conventional reality).

Verification Notes

• Samvriti-satya (conventional truth) and Paramartha-satya (ultimate truth)
• Central to Madhyamaka philosophy
• Prevents eternalism and nihilism