From Limited Mind and Body to Our True (No) Self

Abstract: In the Abrahamic faiths, we often observe a clash between two foundational teachings: Gnosticism and Christianity/Catholicism. Gnosticism, with its emphasis on higher knowledge or "Gnosis", can be seen as controversial when compared to the other two teachings. Many Gnostic beliefs are considerably more liberal and diverge from traditional Abrahamic doctrines. This divergence can present both positive and negative implications.  However, a clear distinction exists between the central concepts of Gnosticism and those of other Abrahamic teachings. Gnosticism centers around the notion of a higher being known as the "Demiurge", whereas Christianity and Catholicism trace their roots to the forefather termed the "Supreme Creator" or "True God". Various religious narratives and mythologies have emerged surrounding these concepts; for practitioners and bodhisattvas, they represent authentic stories, milestones, and revelations along their evolut...

Abstract: Once we mentioned that the only thing that is beneficial for us in this samsaric existence is the practice of spirituality. There is absolutely no guarantee that our materialistic possessions will remain same or our current prestige will continue to the next. It is quite the opposite! The practice of spirituality can be as simple as having a great devotion, faith towards your spiritual guru (i.e. Buddha), or following five precepts. It could be as great as attainment of a fruition mind through meditation. We may accumulate a lot of wealth; however the best safety deposit for our samsaric existence is the attainment of the fruition mind. It can happen in any stage of the path as well as in any of these paths: shravaka, silent buddha or bodhisattva. There is a 100% guarantee that this mind will certainly continue to the next, and will be your one and only safety measure. Fig. 1: The best safety deposit: decide it yourself. The safety deposits are of several kinds. They can be...

Abstract: In many occasions we see that, Mahayanists are liberal towards other faiths, spiritual traditions and religious beliefs. This may be seen as a "weakness" by some other Buddhist traditions and extreme views. Had it not been for Mahayana philosophy, Buddhism would not have really flourished in the West. The reasons for the survival of Buddhism include its philosophical depth, creativity, compassion, wisdom and the life long dedication of old masters. Where do these qualities such as liberty, innocence and creativity come from ?  Fig. 1: HH Dalai Lama enjoying the visit at  St Stephen’s Cathedral   Many westerners who practice Buddhism, especially the Tibetan version, may try to cultivate the qualities of impartiality just because HH Dalai Lama demonstrates it. Or because their root guru or lineage masters recommend it. Is this mere a display of act to win favor of people and politicians ? Should we do the same following their footsteps ? Or is there a partic...

Abstract: We have already analyzed the concepts of Self and No-Self in religious and spiritual contexts. The conclusion was, these two were same in spiritual context, despite their different names. However there is a confusion related to "Self Realization", considering the "Self" to be an eternal substance. This is not the case with No-Self concept, as the only possibility in that teaching is change or impermanence. Why these are contradictory points ? Is the "Self" eternal ? This article evaluates these statements, and brings some light to the topic. In certain religious traditions, even in Vedic traditions, we find the term "eternal self". The literal meaning of the term "eternal" is everlasting, forever. Or even "very long time". We learnt that, so called "self" realization is none other than finding our original source within. Which source is it ? We learnt that deeper we go within ourselves, the more empty we be...

Abstract:  Understanding everything written so far in this blog, intellectually is not a big deal. Our human mind has the potential to contemplate, re-derive, re-define concepts, philosophies and everything. They all sound true and convincing at the same time to the "mind". This is due to the relative and interdependent nature of the concepts and mind. For instance, it is not difficult to understand the duality and non-duality even without any meditative experience, within the limitation of our consciousness. However that understanding is with respect to the "mind". Why this is not so fulfilling? This article sheds some light on that. This is a conversation between a Zen master (not a teacher) and a disciple.  Disciple: Master, I understand the concept of duality and non-duality. It is not so difficult to grasp. Now what ? Master: Could you please give me an example ?  Disciple: Basically the difference between opposite polarities, such as male-female, hot-col...

Abstract: The darkness of the mind does not stay much longer. Every polarity of this world is transitional, and they come and go. We observe these transitions with mindfulness. Darkness only needs to be endured and is then followed by the light. After this stage, there are two pathways to the practitioner depending on his maturity; after mastering the meditative absorptions  and darkness, the final light appears to him, and his realization is complete. The other type has further to go, where the so called ascension happens through the individual.  For both, this is the starting point of the journey: To bring light to others. This post is dedicated to anyone who needs to understand and needs help crossing the darkness of the soul.   Figure 1. Darkness to the Light: Transmutation of the negative afflictions of the mind The darkness is required to illuminate light and therefore is inevitable. This phase can be misunderstood (appeared to be) as an outside obstacle, but ...