“Equality” in Buddhism comprises two aspects: equality as a doctrine and social concept. The former refers to the self-nature of all phenomena as absolutely equal, in that it is tranquil, non-arising, non-ceasing, and beyond words and forms. The latter refers to equality without discrimination, such as a bodhisattva who treats and aids all beings equally, with no difference in terms of the Dharmanature and Buddha-nature of all beings. Basically, “equality” and “discrimination” in Buddhism are incorporated into Buddhist practices and experiences, with their specific significance. Such concepts differ from the “equality” achieved by eliminating the discrimination between rich and poor found in society. Nevertheless, concepts advocated in Buddhism such as the equality between men and women, including the concept that even insentient things have Buddha-nature, inspire us to think about contemporary issues like equality, ecology, and ethics. Moreover, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s exposition on world peace from the Buddhist aspect of “oneness and coexistence” is a model for us to reflect on the modern significance of the concept of equality found in Buddhism.
