Theoretical Origins, Philosophical Reconstruction, and Contemporary Value of Zen Buddhism's "No Words"

This study aims to explore the theoretical origins of the Zen Buddhist concept of "No Words" in Zen scriptures, delving into profound doctrines through texts such as the Platform Sutra and the Five Lamps Meeting at the Source. Subsequently, it reconstructs the argumentation within a philosophical discourse framework, restoring the Ontological framework of Zen philosophy centered on "Mind". In this process, the research demonstrates two possible approaches to "No Words": the consciousness-only doctrine with Mind as the Noumenon and the Prajñā Emptiness view employing "Contemplating Emptiness" as the method. Finally, the study transcends traditional Buddhist doctrinal discourse to examine the contemporary value of "No Words" in relation to the "Philosophy of Image" in Dunhuang Grottoes sculpture ideology.