Ananda's Verse on the Transmission of the Dharma

Original Text: Originally, the Dharma was conferred; after conferring, it is said there is no Dharma. Each must realize it for themselves; upon realization, there is neither Dharma nor non-Dharma.

Explanation: Throughout generations, all Buddhas and Patriarchs have transmitted to their disciples this very Dharma of True Suchness. Although the Dharma of True Suchness is formless, it truly exists—its appearances are empty while its substance is real. Although disciples attain the Dharma and realize the Way, they actually gain nothing and obtain no Dharma whatsoever. True Suchness is originally one’s own precious jewel, not acquired externally but merely discovered. After discovering it, one understands that within the mundane five aggregates, not a single dharma truly exists; all are manifestations of True Suchness. Gradually, the mind ceases to cling even to the Dharma of True Suchness, for it simultaneously is everything and yet is nothing at all—both supremely precious and utterly worthless, unwanted even if freely given. Beings with great resolve must each strive diligently, cultivating and realizing for themselves. Upon realization, one knows that neither the mundane nor the supramundane realms are utterly devoid of Dharma, nor are they entirely illusory; there remains one Dharma that is neither false nor empty but truly real. Thus, one may rest assured, free from the fear of annihilating emptiness.