This quote by Gautama Buddha is about the interdependence of existence. It suggests that space, or nothingness, only has meaning when it is defined by something, like suns or planets. In other words, emptiness itself doesn’t have any inherent value; its value comes from what fills it up.
Applying this to a personal context, one might say that our lives (the ‘space’) gain meaning and purpose (‘substantiality’) from the things we fill them with – our relationships, experiences, passions and achievements. If we strip all these away and are left with just ’empty space’, then life loses its substantiality.
In today’s world where materialism often becomes a measure of success and fulfillment, this quote reminds us to define our lives not by emptiness or lack thereof but by what we choose to fill it with. It encourages us to seek substance in intangible things like love, knowledge or spiritual growth rather than material possessions which may seem substantial but are essentially transient and empty.
Moreover, in the grand scheme of universe where human existence is akin to a speck of dust in an infinite desert; this quote underscores the importance of co-existence. Just as planets give meaning to space they inhabit; humans too add value to their surroundings through their actions & interactions – thereby giving purpose & significance not just to their own lives but also contributing towards collective human experience.
Therefore on personal level as well as societal level – instead of focusing on voids & emptiness (whether it’s lack of material possessions or perceived deficiencies); if we focus on filling those voids with meaningful experiences & positive actions – then even an ‘empty’ life can gain substantiality!
