Fundamental Verses on the Middle Way (V) — by Nagarjuna

V.1. Space does not exist at all before the defining characteristic of space (akasalaksana).
If it would exist before the defining characteristic, then one must falsely conclude that there would be something without a defining characteristic.

V.2. In no case has anything existed without a defining characteristic.
If an entity without a defining characteristic does not exist, to what does the defining characteristic apply?

V.3. There is no functioning of a defining characteristic in a case where there is already a defining characteristic or where there is not a defining characteristic.
And it can function in nothing except where there is a defining characteristic or where there is not a defining characteristic.

V.4. When there is no related function, it is not possible to have “that to which a defining characteristic applies.”
And if “that to which a defining characteristic applies” is not possible, then a defining characteristic cannot come into existence.

V.5. Therefore, “that to which a defining characteristic applies” does not exist; and certainly a defining characteristic itself does not exist.
Now, something does not exist without “that to which a defining characteristic applies” and the defining characteristic.

V.6. If the existing thing(bhava) does not exist, how then would the non-existing thing (abhava) come into existence?
And who holds: the existing-and-non-existing thing which does not have the properties of an existing-and-non-existing thing?

V.7. Therefore space is
neither an existing thing
nor a non-existing thing,
neither something to which a defining characteristic applies
nor a defining characteristic.
Also, the other five irreducible elements can be considered in the same way as space.

V.8. But those unenlightened people who either affirm reality or non-reality
Do not perceive the blessed cessation-of-appearance of existing things.

Source: Orientalia