The present article is a comparative analysis of the philosophy of Martin Heidegger in conversation with Daoism, Zen Buddhism, and Advaita Vedanta. It explores the resonances and differences between the main concepts of Heidegger, Being (Sein), Dasein, authenticity, and temporality and the main Eastern concepts. As an example, Heidegger and Daoism both emphasize the inadequacy of language to understand ultimate reality, Heidegger describes nothingness as Buddhist emptiness, and the Vedanta concept of the Self as Brahman provides an opposite of absolute unity. These comparisons are placed in the context of the literature review and our analysis shows that there are convergences and unique commitments in both traditions. We claim that the comparison between Heidegger and Eastern thought not only explains his ideas but also enhances all traditions in question. Such dialogue, as Poggeler observes, can allow the west as well as the east to find its way back to itself, and this is the reciprocity that this exchange can bring about.

Heidegger; Being; Dasein; authenticity; temporality; Daoism; Zen Buddhism; Advaita Vedānta; comparative philosophy; intercultural dialogue.

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