The Chinese Tiantai Teaching on the Mutual Inclusion of Matter and Mind

A Lecture by Shifu Shuman, 12 May 2025

May 12, 2025, 6 pm,  Asia-Africa-Institute, East Wing  (ESA O 123)

 The Chinese Tiantai principle of mutual inclusion (huju 互具) asserts that all beings, sentient and insentient, include and interpenetrate each other. This suggests that matter and mind are not separate from each other. In my talk, I will expound and discuss the relationship of some theories based on the concept of mutual inclusion, including the Buddha-nature of insentient beings, the non-duality of mind and matter, and the mutuality of ten Dharma realms. I will also put up for discussion to what extent these Tiantai teachings were relevant to cultivating spiritual practice and contributing to a greater appreciation for the world.

Shifu Shuman was ordained in 1995 and is currently a lecturer of the Buddha Educational Foundation, Taiwan. Her primary practice and teaching includes Chinese Tiantai Buddhism and Chan/Zen. She received her PhD in Religious Studies from Northwestern University, USA, and is the author of two books (in Chinese) and several journal and encyclopedia articles (in English).