This dissertation entitled ‘An Analytical Study of the Concept of Buddha-nature in Buddhist Philosophy’ has three objectives: 1) to study the concept of Buddha-nature in Theravada Buddhist philosophy, 2) to study the concept of Buddha-nature in Mahayana Buddhist philosophy, and 3) to analyze the concept of Buddha-nature in Theravada Buddhist philosophy and Mahayana Buddhist philosophy. This is a documentary research.

             The results of this research were found as follows: in Theravada Buddhist philosophy, the concept of Buddha-nature basically means the idea holding that the Buddha-nature by nature exists only in the great man’ s physical aspect possessing extraordinary identity which is special and different from general people’s. This is derived from the cultivation of perfections and wholesome action that he had been fulfilled while becoming Bodhisattva in the past life and in the mental aspect arising after enlightenment. As regards Mahayana Buddhist philosophy, such a concept is referred to the idea holding that all the Buddhas do not disappear despite their passing away; they forever exist through the supernatural form in the pure land in order to liberate living beings from bondage of suffering.

             In the analysis to provide the answer for the question: is the concept of Buddha-nature self or selfless. This research was argued that on the one hand the concept of Buddha-nature in Theravada Buddhist philosophy holds the state of selflessness because of its explanation on the Buddha-nature after the Buddha’s passing away is done through the emptiness without any state of convention, on the other hand, such a concept holds the state of self in Mahayana Buddhist philosophy because of its supportive explanation on the Buddhas’ existence after passing away where they must remain forever in the pure land. However, there exists a concept Buddha-nature is not wholly self as it also explains His selflessness. With respect to the analysis on the ontology of the ultimate goal, both differ in nature; while such the existence of Buddha-nature is objected by Theravada Buddhist philosophy but it is advocated by Mahayana Buddhist philosophy. Buddha exits in the pure land. Some concept argued that pure land is only for a temporary period as the ultimate goal does not differ because both are aimed at the attainment of Buddhahood.

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