Chinese idiom · 成语
不二法门
Meaning
The only true path; a singular method.
Character by character
Origin and story
Buddhist teachingThe phrase comes from the Entry into the Dharma Gate of Nonduality chapter of the Vimalakirti Sutra (維摩詰所說經). Various bodhisattvas explain how to enter nonduality. Manjushri says it involves going beyond words, explanations, and distinctions. When he asks Vimalakirti to respond, Vimalakirti remains silent; Manjushri praises that silence as a true entry into nonduality.
This is a Buddhist teaching scene, not a claim that one exclusive worldly technique guarantees success. 不二 originally concerns going beyond dualistic oppositions. In secular usage, the phrase developed the meaning of an essential or uniquely effective approach. That everyday sense should be distinguished from the sutra's philosophical setting.
Sources and further reading
In everyday life
对我来说，每天开口练习是提高口语的不二法门。
For me, speaking every day is the essential way to improve spoken language skills.
Often emphatic praise for a key method, not a literal proof that all alternatives fail.