Madhyamaka, also known as the "Middle Way" philosophy, is a school of thought within Mahayana Buddhism that was founded by the Indian philosopher Nagarjuna. The central tenet of Madhyamaka is the concept of śūnyatā, or emptiness, which refers to the idea that all phenomena lack inherent nature or essence.

According to Madhyamaka, reality is not fixed or permanent, but rather constantly changing and interdependent. This means that all things are interconnected and arise in dependence upon causes and conditions, rather than having an independent existence. This view challenges the commonly held belief in a permanent, unchanging self or essence.

Madhyamaka also rejects the extreme views of eternalism and nihilism. Eternalism is the belief in a permanent, unchanging self or essence, while nihilism is the belief that nothing exists at all. Madhyamaka teaches that both of these views are incorrect and that reality is found somewhere in the middle, in a state of emptiness.

The concept of emptiness can be difficult to understand, as it goes against our conventional way of thinking. We tend to see things as having inherent existence and permanent qualities, but Madhyamaka teaches that this is an illusion. Emptiness does not mean that things do not exist at all, but rather that they lack inherent existence and are empty of any fixed or permanent nature.

Nagarjuna used the concept of "dependent origination" to explain the nature of emptiness. This refers to the idea that all things arise in dependence upon causes and conditions. Nothing exists independently or in isolation. This includes not only physical objects, but also thoughts, emotions, and even the self.

Madhyamaka also emphasizes the importance of understanding emptiness as a means to overcome suffering and achieve enlightenment. By recognizing the emptiness of all things, we can let go of our attachment to them and free ourselves from suffering. This is because suffering arises from our mistaken belief in the inherent existence of things.

In conclusion, Madhyamaka views reality as empty of inherent nature, meaning that all things lack a fixed, permanent essence. This view challenges our conventional way of thinking and offers a deeper understanding of the interconnected and impermanent nature of reality. By understanding emptiness, we can let go of our attachment and achieve liberation from suffering.