The Buddhas, possessing an accurate understanding of the essence of the two truths, declare that all phenomena, whether external or internal, exhibit a dual nature when observed through two distinct lenses: one tainted by deluded consciousness and the other characterized by pristine wisdom.
This dual essence, referred to as the two truths, is a deduction derived from sound reasoning, devoid of inherent existence. According to their teachings, the content apprehended by genuine primordial wisdom represents the ultimate reality, while the subject of distorted perception pertains to relative truth.
The two truths represent distinct facets of a unified reality, with their shared essence found in the inseparable connection between appearance and emptiness. This unity is logically affirmed through the examination of these two truths. It is asserted that what appears is, in fact, empty. If emptiness were distinct from appearance, phenomena would not possess emptiness. Thus, these two aspects are fundamentally interconnected. This nature, established as the inseparability of appearance and emptiness, embodies the ultimate truth. It eludes description and becomes the focal point of self-reflective awareness.
This ultimate truth is known by various names such as dharmadhatu and tathagatagarbha. It stands as the ultimate essence of phenomena and differs from the approximate ultimate truth. This distinction becomes evident in several aspects. In relation to the emptiness of the approximate ultimate truth, when challenging the four ontological extremes, the notion that phenomena inherently exist is refuted by exposing their lack of true existence. Conversely, the idea that phenomena are non-existent is debunked by demonstrating their existence on a relative level.
Therefore, an exclusive appeal to the ultimate nature of phenomena cannot fully refute the four extremes. Ultimate reality, characterized as a nonaffirming negative, is effective in refuting the extreme of existence. However, since disproving the extreme of nonexistence involves referencing relative truth, ultimate reality, inherently, constitutes an ontological extreme (nonexistence). This extreme form of emptiness cannot be considered as dharmata, the ultimate nature of things.
What now? :)
In the beginning was the word and this word was sound.
The auditory environment of a location can encompass a spectrum from the pleasant melodies of birds and distant cattle mooing to the constant din of a nearby motorway. The emotional reactions of individuals residing in such places can vary widely, ranging from joy to significant stress and disturbances in sleep. Therefore, it is crucial, when evaluating a site, to assess the sound climate or, in some instances where substantial changes are anticipated, to predict it.
Noise by definition, refers to undesired sound, and the perception of noise involves a subjective judgment by the listener. In the given examples, natural sounds are generally expected to be positively received by most individuals, whereas traffic noise is likely to be regarded negatively.
Natural light offers several advantages over electric lighting, encompassing its adaptability and efficiency, and fostering an awareness of and connection to external conditions. Beyond being a cost-free light source, contributing to an energy-efficient approach within a home, it has the ability to bring life to spaces and introduce drama and variety over time.
Moreover, its positive effects on physical health, known to counteract Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), are now well-established. Nonetheless, excessive illumination can have adverse effects on comfort.
Orient rooms used in the morning (bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen) to the morning light to provide a dose of daylight to stimulate the circadian rhythm.
Architecture presents an opportunity to shape our connections with each other and the environment by orchestrating the design of form, space, and materiality, creating interactive settings for life.
This can enhance our well-being, enrich our lives, and promote health and pleasure. For instance, consider a shaft of sunlight in a recessed window seat, offering a moment of warmth and tranquility, complemented by a view of nature, soft and acoustically absorbent seat materials, and the tactile pleasure of a smooth handle adjusting a wooden shutter. Our well-being is closely tied to such moments of delight.
While such stimuli often occur spontaneously or go unnoticed, when intentionally designed and harmonized throughout a building, their impact becomes cumulative. A poorly designed building lacks these moments and diminishes our lives, whereas a successful piece of architecture boasts an accumulation of delightful moments that contribute to health and overall well-being.
Therefore, when considering the urban scale, the focus will be on commonly identified noise sources, including traffic, aircraft, and industrial noise. Noise generated by nearby residents such as speech, music, and general domestic activities can also lead to irritation and stress.