The Ground: What we ultimately perceive / realise -- with many different names --:
The inconceivable Union of the Two Truths [U2T], Union of the three spheres [U3S],
Union of opposites [Uopp], the Middle Way free from all extremes & middle.
What we ultimately perceive / realise -- or not --
Question: What is the Ground / Basis / Immuable / Unconditioned Nature of the Mind / Reality?
What does it mean to "see the Dharmakaya / Dharmadhatu / Primordial Pristine Naked Awareness / Mind ..."?
They call “It” The true nature of Reality as it is / Suchness / Primordial-awareness, Mind, Buddha-nature, Genuine-emptiness, Dharmadhata, Dharmadhatu, the Unconditioned, the Absolute, Space-like, the Timeless, the Indivisible Whole, God … but those are just more names / concepts / pointers. They are not “It”. So we could use those terms, but never grasp them as if an inherent / independent / universal / absolute truth. The problem comes from temporarily using a dualistic concept (one extreme opposite of a duality) to point toward what is beyond all opposites of all dualities, beyond all opposites and their relation / opposition. This is like using the same name for two different things -- one conventional and one ultimate --. We have no choice but to use dualistic concepts to communicate, to point toward the indescriptible / inconceivable; but we just need to be aware of this problem. Enlightenment is not about choosing between two/three apparent opposites; Enlightenment is about realising the true nature & dynamic of opposites, and the true nature & dynamic of their relation / opposition. Then the opposites and the opposition / duality self-liberate themselves: they are no more problematic; we are no more slaves to them; they are seen as spontaneous natural luminosity of the mind / Reality, spontaneous natural manifestations of the pristine Ground. Examples:
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Ex. To perceive a CAUSE with/without EFFECT, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING TRUE CAUSALITY / DEPENDENT ORIGINATION, or Union of the three spheres of causality [U3S-causality] / Union subject / cause <==> relation / action / causality <==> object / effect, or Union of the Two Truths about the three spheres of causality [U2T-3S-causality].
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Ex. To perceive LIGHT with/without DARKNESS, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING TRUE LIGHT, or Union of opposites [Uopp] / Union light <==> darkness.
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Ex. To perceive INSIDE with/without OUTSIDE, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING TRUE SPACE, or Union of opposites [Uopp] / Union inside <==> between <==> outside.
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Ex. To perceive GOOD with/without BAD, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING TRUE GOOD, or Union of opposites [Uopp] / Union good / pure <==> bad / impure.
This universal permanent GOOD in everything is that everything is beyond good & bad, beyond all dualities.
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Ex. To perceive SPACE with/without THINGS, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING TRUE UNIVERSE, or Union of opposites [Uopp] / Union space <==> things.
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Ex. To perceive the ABSOLUTE with/without the RELATIVE, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING THE TRUE ABSOLUTE / GROUND / BASIS: the Union of the Two Truths [U2T], Union conventional / relative <==> absolute / ultimate.
The Absolute is that the Absolute & the Relative are inseparable. Union of the Two Truths.
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Ex. To perceive EMPTINESS with/without “conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional impermanent APPEARANCES”, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING GENUINE-EMPTINESS free from all extremes & middle, or INSEPARABLE APPEARANCES-EMPTINESS, or Union of the Two Truths [U2T], Union appearances & functionalities <==> and emptiness of inherent existence.
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Ex. To perceive NON-DUALITY / IDENTITY with/without DUALITY / DIFFERENCE, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING TRUE NON-DUALITY / ONENESS, or Union of opposites [Uopp] / Union difference / duality <==> identity / non-duality.
Non-duality is the Union of opposites.
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Ex. To perceive the “PERMANENT / UNCONDITIONED / INDEPENDENT / INFINITE” with/without the “Impermanent / Conditioned / Dependent / Finite”, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING THE TRUE PERMANENT / UNCONDITIONED / INDEPENDENT / INFINITE, or Union of opposites [Uopp] / Union conditioned / impermanent <==> unconditioned / permanent.
This PERMANENT / UNCONDITIONED / INDEPENDENT / INFINITE aspect of everything is that everything is beyond permanence & impermanence, beyond dependence & independence, beyond finite & infinite, beyond existence & non-existence: everything is more like the Union of the Two Truths, the Union of opposites, the Union of the three spheres.
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Ex. To perceive “REST / NO-THOUGHT / NO-CONCEPT / NO-ANALYSIS / SILENCE” with/without the “Movement / Thought / Concepts / Analysis / Noise”, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING TRUE REST / NO-THOUGHT, or Union of opposites [Uopp] / Union rest <==> movement.
No-thought is simply not grasping at thoughts (name & forms). You are not silence / awareness empty of thoughts, you are silence / awareness inseparable with thoughts, its natural displays / functionality. You are emptiness inseparable with appearances.
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Ex. To perceive the “MIND / SUBJECT / PERCEIVER / KNOWER / AWARENESS” with/without “Phenomena / objects / perceived / known / something-to-be-aware-of”, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING THE TRUE NATURE OF THE MIND, or PRIMORDIAL PRISTINE AWARENESS, or EMPTY-AWARENESS, or CLARITY-EMPTINESS, or Union of the three spheres of perception or cognition [U3S] / Union subject / perceiver / knower <==> perception / cognition <==> perceived / known, or Union of the Two Truths about the three spheres of perception or cognition [U2T-3S].
The true nature of mind, the permanent aspect of awareness, is its inseparability with the objects & relations / actions / functions, its spontaneous unimpeded displays. Pure awareness is not without thoughts, but without grasping at them, with the wisdom of knowing their true nature. You are not the thoughts / movement, not the consciousness / awareness / stillness, not both together, not neither; you are the Inseparability / Union of the two. Inseparability / Union of the relative <==> and the absolute.
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Ex. To perceive the DHARMAKAYA / AWARENESS / PURE SUBJECT with/without the RUPAKAYA / PURE OBJECTS & RELATIONS/ACTIONS, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING THE TRUE DHARMAKAYA; or Union of the three kayas / the svฤbhฤvikakฤya.
The true nature of DHARMAKAYA is its inseparability with the SAMBHOGAKAYA and the NIRMANAKAYA without any grasping.
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Ex. To perceive the “PURE / PERFECT / EQUAL / NIRVANA” with/without the Impure / Imperfect / Unequal / Samsara, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING TRUE PURITY / PERFECTION / EQUALITY / NIRVANA here & now, or Union of opposites [Uopp]: Union of nirvana <==> samsara.
This universal permanent PURITY in everything is that everything is beyond pure & impure, beyond all dualities.
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Ex. To perceive the PRESENT with/without the PAST & FUTURE, or vice versa, is impossible; the three are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the others), interdependent (one implies the others, <==>), co-defined (one defines the others), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These three apparent opposites are all empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These three apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These three apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING NOWNESS / TIMELESSNESS, or Union of the three times [U3T].
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Ex. To perceive the MIND with/without the BODY & SPEECH, or vice versa, is impossible; the three are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the others), interdependent (one implies the others, <==>), co-defined (one defines the others), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These three apparent opposites are all empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These three apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These three apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING THE UNION OF THE THREE VAJRAS [U3V].
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Ex. To perceive the SUBJECT / ACTOR with/without the OBJECT / RESULT & RELATION / ACTION, or vice versa, is impossible; the three are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the others), interdependent (one implies the others, <==>), co-defined (one defines the others), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These three apparent opposites are all empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These three apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These three apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING THE UNION OF THE THREE SPHERES [U3S] in general.
***
Ex. To perceive OCEAN / WHOLE / CALM with/without THE WAVES / PARTS / PERTURBATIONS, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING THE TRUE OCEAN WHOLE / CALM, or Union of opposites [Uopp]: Union of wave <==> ocean.
You are not the ocean, not the wave, not both together, not neither. You are the Inseparability / Union of the Two.
***
Ex. To perceive EMPTINESS with/without BUDDHA-NATURE, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING GENUINE-EMPTINESS OR BUDDHA-NATURE beyond all extremes & middle, or Union of opposites [Uopp]: Union of Buddha-nature <==> Genuine-emptiness.
***
Ex. To perceive BUDDHA / ONE with/without ORDINARY-BEINGS / MANY, or vice versa, is impossible; the two are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists with/without the other), interdependent (one implies the other, <==>), co-defined (one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-contingent, co-emergent, co-evolving, co-ceasing / co-transcended, in harmony, in Union / coalescence, equal / non-dual / one -- in the non-dual sense of those terms using the tetralemma (e.x. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither). These two apparent opposites are both empty of inherent existence [T2], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute but more like open / free, like illusions, not really existent <==> precisely because conventionally dependently co-arisen / interdependent relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances / fabrications [T1], merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind in dependence of its conditioning / karma, not completely non-existent -- ex. appearances & functionalities / luminosity / clarity / cognizance / awareness of the mind. And vice versa. One aspect implies the other (<==>) [U2T]. These two apparent opposites and their relation / oppositions are objects merely labelled / imputed / conceptualized / opposed by the subject / mind in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, and they become part of the karma that is reinforced with every usage. These two apparent opposites are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither; not existent, not non-existent, not both together, not neither ... Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING BUDDHA / ONE beyond all conceptual elaborations, or Union of opposites [Uopp]: Union of ordinary being <==> Budddha, Union of many <==> one.
***
Being fully aware of this is what is called PERCEIVING THE INCONCEIVABLE TRUE NATURE OF REALITY AS IT IS HERE & NOW as pointed by concepts like: the Union of the Two Truths [U2T], the Union of the three spheres [U3S], the Union of opposites [Uopp], the Middle Way free from fall extremes & middle, free from all dualistic conceptual proliferations, free from all limits, free from all conditioning / karma.
For more on them see: “Buddhist Logic” https://www.gilehtblog.com/2020/10/buddhist-logic_18.html
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[01. The Madhyamaka Machine about all dharmas: Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas [U2T].]
(i.e. Version 2021-12-30: Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas [U2T]:
The true nature & dynamic of any & all dharmas -- ex. all appearances / fabrications / composites (the five aggregates; body, speech, mind; physical, conceptual, mental fabrications; individual, collective, cosmic; of samsara / impure and nirvana / pure), the three spheres (subject, relation / action, object for any type of relation or action), the opposites of any duality / triad / quad /etc, even the two truths themselves --
is indescribable / inconceivable for our flawed conditioned dualistic conceptual mind(s) based on two erroneous basic assumptions -- inherent existence and opposition / duality --;
it has to be spontaneously personally non-conceptually non-dualistically directly perceived / realised / experienced / abided in.
--
[Uall: ALL DHARMAS ARE EQUAL PURE PERFECT INSEPARABLE MANIFESTATIONS OF THE GROUND:]
All dharmas are spontaneous natural non-dual manifestations of the Ground, inseparable from the Ground: this inconceivable unique all-pervasive unborn unchanging unconditioned unceasing pristine Ground / Basis / Source / Suchness / Dharmata / Dharmadhatu / Buddha-nature / Genuine-emptiness / Ati / Dzogchen / Mahamudra / Intrinsic-awareness / Primordial-empty-awareness / Awakened-mind / Naturally-coemergent-timeless-awareness / Union of the Two Truths [U2T] … the inconceivable unique true nature & dynamic of all dharmas beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma; beyond all views, methods and goals; beyond all desciption / conceptualisation, discrimination / dualities, causality / production, matter-energy, space & time; beyond both samsara & nirvana.
--
[U2T-All: UNION OF THE TWO TRUTHS ABOUT ANY & ALL DHARMAS:]
[Uopp] Apparent opposites are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists without the other(s)), interdependent (one implies the other(s)), co-defined (the definition of one defines the other(s)), co-relative, co-dependent, co-emergent (they arise together), co-evolving (they change together), co-ceasing / co-transcended (they cease together), in harmony (not in real opposition) (in the non-dual sense of those terms: ex. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither).
The true nature & dynamic of any & all dharmas -- ex. the three spheres (subject / mind, relation / action, object / phenomena) [U3S], the opposites of any duality / triad / quad /etc. [Uopp], even the two truths themselves [U2T-2T] --
is like an ineffable / inconceivable Union of being conventionally dependently co-arisen (interdependent) relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances [T1 - first truth], co-dependent with their parts (when applicable), with their causes & conditions (when applicable), their conceptual opposite(s) (always), and especially co-dependent with the mind merely labelling / imputing / conceptualising / classifying them [U3S] in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, not completely non-dependently-arising / non-existent / non-changing / non-functional / non-ceasing / useless / meaningless
<==> and being empty of inherent existence [T2 - second truth], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute, but more like open / free, not really dependently-co-arisen / co-existent / co-changing / co-functional / co-ceasing.
One aspect / truth implies the other (<==>) [U2T], one aspect / truth proves the other (<==>).
’They are there but not there’, like dreams / magical illusions / tricks of the sight / mirages / reflections / echos / Cities of Gandharvas / emanated apparitions. They are 'like them in some aspect(s)' but not exactly the same; all metaphors have their limits.
All dharmas are dependently co-appearing & relatively functional <==> but still empty of inherent existence; empty of inherent existence <==> but still conventionally dependently co-appearing & relatively functional. And that is not grasping at the conventional / relative, or at the ultimate / emptiness, or both together, or neither.
[TETRALEMMA:] All dharmas are not inherently existent (still empty of inherent existence) <==> but still not completely non-existent (still conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances), not both existent & non-existent together, not neither existent nor non-existent, and there is no fifth. This is another way to express the inconceivable Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
[BEYOND:] Meaning their true nature is indescribable / inconceivable, beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma (physical, conceptual, mental) x (individual, collective, cosmic).
-
[U2T-2T:] Theses two aspects / truths -- dependent co-origination & functionality [T1] and emptiness of inherent existence [T2] --, like any group of apparent opposites, are inseparable (one cannot exists without the other), interdependent (one implies the other), co-defined (the definition of one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-emergent (they arise together), co-evolving (they change together), co-ceasing / co-transcended (they cease together), in harmony (not in real opposition) (in the non-dual sense of those terms: not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither) [T1-2T] <==> thus themselves empty of inherent existence [T2-2T].
The two truths are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth. So all dharmas are not really arising [T1] or not, not really empty of inherent existence [T2] or not, not really both together [2T], not really neither [1T], and there is no fifth.
The two truths themselves and their Union are mere pointers to the inconceivable, mere tools, mere imperfect temporary adapted skillful means. So there is nothing left here to grasp as independent / universal / absolute / inherently existing. Everything is like luminous space, a limitless & centerless ocean of interdependence and emptiness.
-
[The three inseparable qualities of the Ground:] The emptiness of inherent existence [T2] is called the essence of the Ground; the conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances [T1] is called the nature of the Ground; the inseparability / interdependence / harmony / Union between those two aspects [U2T] is called the dynamic-energy / compassionate-energy of the Ground.
This primordial unborn unchanging unceasing ‘dynamic-energy’, or inseparability of the two aspects / truths, is the creative potential that accounts for everything in both samsara & nirvana.
-
[With/without wisdom:] When directly seen as they really are [U2T], appearances (all dharmas) are said to be pure like the three inseparable pure kayas; this is nirvana. But when seen with ignorance of their true nature & dynamic [U2T], appearances are said to be impure, dependent on karma, and causing more karma; this is the limitless karmic cycle. But, ultimately, Reality is beyond all dualities like: pure & impure, wisdom & ignorance, samsara & nirvana.
--
[Best Approximation / Pointers to their inconceivable true nature & dynamic:]
The true nature & dynamic of any & all dharmas -- ex. the three spheres (subject / mind, relation / action, object / phenomena), the opposites of any duality / triad / quad /etc, even the two truths themselves --
is pointed by concepts like:
– the inconceivable Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas [U2T],
– the inconceivable Union of the three spheres about all dharmas [U3S / U2T-3S],
– the inconceivable Union of opposites about all dharmas [Non-duality / Oneness / Uopp / U2T-opp],
– the inconceivable Middle Way about all dharmas,
– the tetralemma about all dharmas,
– freedom from all extremes & middle, freedom from all dualistic conceptual proliferations, freedom from all limits, freedom from all conditioning / karma,
– the Ground / Basis / Source / Suchness / Dharmata / Dharmadhatu / Buddha-nature / Genuine-emptiness / Ati / Dzogchen / Mahamudra /
– Enlightened-mind / Intrinsic-awareness / Primordial-empty-awareness.
--
[TETRALEMMA:] All dharmas -- ex. the three spheres (subject / mind, relation / action, object / phenomena), the opposites of any duality / triad / quad /etc., even the two truths themselves -- are
-- not inherently existent, not completely non-existent, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not permanent / continuous / eternal, not impermanent / discontinuous / annihilated, and there is no fifth;
-- not purely objective / physical / body, not purely subjective / mental / mind, not purely relational / process / conceptual / speech, not two or three of them together, not none of them, and there is no other possibility;
-- not dependent / caused / produced / functional, not independent / uncaused/spontaneous / unproduced / non-functional, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not composite / contextual / conditioned, not non-composite / non-contextual / unconditioned, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind, not not-merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not self-caused, not other-caused, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not changing / evolving, not completely non-changing / evolving, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not empty, not non-empty, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not conventional / relative / false, not absolute / universal / true, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not dependently co-arisen / interdependent / mere-interdependence [T1], not empty of inherent existence / mere-emptiness [T2], not both together [2T], not neither [1T], and there is no fifth;
-- not unequal / impure / imperfect / ordinary / incomplete / bad, not equal / pure / perfect / divine / complete / good, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not unreal / identical to illusions / dreams / mirage / magic tricks, not real / different from illusions / dreams / mirage / magic tricks, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not describable / conceivable / meaningful, not indescribable / inconceivable / meaningless, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth -- for whatever ‘this’ could be -- (this could be generalised for groups of more than two apparent opposites; ex. the three spheres, the three kayas, the three gems, the three times, the four cardinal directions, the five …, the six ...).
-
Meaning their true nature (Ground / Suchness / U2T) is indescribable / inconceivable (in absolute terms) for our flawed conditioned dualistic conceptual mind(s), beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma; beyond all description / conceptualisation, discrimination / differentiation, causality / production, matter-energy, space & time.
So there is no independent / universal / absolute / inherently existing basis for any discrimination / differentiation in absolute terms, just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively.
And there is nothing to accept / affirm / seek / add / do in absolute terms, nothing to reject / negate / abandon / eliminate / subtract / not-do in absolute terms, just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively if it helps someone get closer to the inconceivable liberating Truth: the Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas [U2T], the Union of the three spheres [U3S / U2T-3S], the Union of apparent opposites [Uopp / U2T-opp], the Middle Way in everything, the tetralemma, the primordial spontaneity / equality / purity / perfection / divinity / completeness of all dharmas.
In that sense everything is primordially spontaneous, equal, pure, perfect, divine, complete. Everything is like the pristine display of the Ground / Suchness / Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
It may look complicated but all of this can be resumed into one thing: The Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas. Everything else, all these words, is just to help us to stay away from all possible extremes & middle, and create enough room for a possible inconceivable spontaneous individual non-dualistic non-conceptual direct perception / realisation / experience of the true nature of Reality as it is here & now: U2T.
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[MIDDLE WAY:]
So the best attitude toward all dharmas is the Middle Way free from all extremes & middle:
nothing to accept / affirm / seek / add / do / cause / produce / change / improve / cultivate / perceive / know / experience / acquire / possess / purify / liberate / achieve ... in absolute terms,
nothing to reject / negate / abandon / eliminate / subtract / not-do / not-cause / not-produce / not-change / not-improve or deteriorate / not-cultivate / not-perceive / not-know / not-experience / not-acquire / not-possess / not-purify or stain / not-liberate or enslave / not-achieve ... in absolute terms,
just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively if it helps someone to get closer to the inconceivable liberating Truth: the Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
-
Extremes like:
i) existence / realism / causality / dependent origination / karma / relative-truth-only [T1],
ii) non-existence / nihilism / mere-nothingness / mere-emptiness / ultimate-truth-only [T2],
iii) both existence & non-existence together / a form of dualism / the two truths together, in opposition / duality of the two truths [2T],
iv) neither existence nor non-existence / a form of monism / neither of the two truths / oneness of the two truths [1T];
or extremes like
v) subject-only / mind-only / idealism / subjectivism,
vi) object-only / naรฏve realism / objectivism,
vii) relation-only / process-only / action-only / relationism / processism,
viii) two or three of them together / pluralism,
ix) none to them / monism.
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For the latest version of this box see:
Madhyamaka Machine - Blog Post #158
https://www.gilehtblog.com/2021/11/madhyamaka-machine.html)
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[02. If we put apparent opposites like ‘opposite-1, opposite-2 ...’ into the Madhyamaka Machine we get: the Union of opposites [Uopp] // the Union of the Two Truths about opposites in general [U2T-opp].]
(i.e. Version 2021-12-30 - Union of apparent opposite like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' [Uopp]:
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' is indescribable / inconceivable for our flawed conditioned dualistic conceptual mind(s) based on two erroneous basic assumptions -- inherent existence and opposition / duality --;
it has to be spontaneously personally non-conceptually non-dualistically directly perceived / realised / experienced / abided in.
--
[Uopp: APPARENT OPPOSITES LIKE 'OPPOSITE-1, OPPOSITE-2 ...' ARE EQUAL PURE PERFECT INSEPARABLE MANIFESTATIONS OF THE GROUND:]
Apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' are spontaneous natural non-dual manifestations of the Ground, inseparable from the Ground: this inconceivable unique all-pervasive unborn unchanging unconditioned unceasing pristine Ground / Basis / Source / Suchness / Dharmata / Dharmadhatu / Buddha-nature / Genuine-emptiness / Ati / Dzogchen / Mahamudra / Intrinsic-awareness / Primordial-empty-awareness / Awakened-mind / Naturally-coemergent-timeless-awareness / Union of the Two Truths [U2T] … the inconceivable unique true nature & dynamic of all dharmas beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma; beyond all views, methods and goals; beyond all desciption / conceptualisation, discrimination / dualities, causality / production, matter-energy, space & time; beyond both samsara & nirvana.
--
[U2T-opp: UNION OF THE TWO TRUTHS ABOUT APPARENT OPPOSITES LIKE 'OPPOSITE-1, OPPOSITE-2 ...':]
[Uopp] Apparent opposites are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists without the other(s)), interdependent (one implies the other(s)), co-defined (the definition of one defines the other(s)), co-relative, co-dependent, co-emergent (they arise together), co-evolving (they change together), co-ceasing / co-transcended (they cease together), in harmony (not in real opposition) (in the non-dual sense of those terms: ex. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither).
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...'
is like an ineffable / inconceivable Union of being conventionally dependently co-arisen (interdependent) relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances [T1 - first truth], co-dependent with their parts (when applicable), with their causes & conditions (when applicable), their conceptual opposite(s) (always), and especially co-dependent with the mind merely labelling / imputing / conceptualising / classifying them [U3S] in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, not completely non-dependently-arising / non-existent / non-changing / non-functional / non-ceasing / useless / meaningless
<==> and being empty of inherent existence [T2 - second truth], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute, but more like open / free, not really dependently-co-arisen / co-existent / co-changing / co-functional / co-ceasing.
One aspect / truth implies the other (<==>) [U2T], one aspect / truth proves the other (<==>).
’They are there but not there’, like dreams / magical illusions / tricks of the sight / mirages / reflections / echos / Cities of Gandharvas / emanated apparitions. They are 'like them in some aspect(s)' but not exactly the same; all metaphors have their limits.
Apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' are dependently co-appearing & relatively functional <==> but still empty of inherent existence; empty of inherent existence <==> but still conventionally dependently co-appearing & relatively functional. And that is not grasping at the conventional / relative, or at the ultimate / emptiness, or both together, or neither.
[TETRALEMMA:] Apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' are not inherently existent (still empty of inherent existence) <==> but still not completely non-existent (still conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances), not both existent & non-existent together, not neither existent nor non-existent, and there is no fifth. This is another way to express the inconceivable Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
[BEYOND:] Meaning their true nature is indescribable / inconceivable, beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma (physical, conceptual, mental) x (individual, collective, cosmic).
-
[U2T-2T:] Theses two aspects / truths -- dependent co-origination & functionality [T1] and emptiness of inherent existence [T2] --, like any group of apparent opposites, are inseparable (one cannot exists without the other), interdependent (one implies the other), co-defined (the definition of one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-emergent (they arise together), co-evolving (they change together), co-ceasing / co-transcended (they cease together), in harmony (not in real opposition) (in the non-dual sense of those terms: not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither) [T1-2T] <==> thus themselves empty of inherent existence [T2-2T].
The two truths are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth. So apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' are not really arising [T1] or not, not really empty of inherent existence [T2] or not, not really both together [2T], not really neither [1T], and there is no fifth.
The two truths themselves and their Union are mere pointers to the inconceivable, mere tools, mere imperfect temporary adapted skillful means. So there is nothing left here to grasp as independent / universal / absolute / inherently existing. Everything is like luminous space, a limitless & centerless ocean of interdependence and emptiness.
-
[The three inseparable qualities of the Ground:] The emptiness of inherent existence [T2] is called the essence of the Ground; the conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances [T1] is called the nature of the Ground; the inseparability / interdependence / harmony / Union between those two aspects [U2T] is called the dynamic-energy / compassionate-energy of the Ground.
This primordial unborn unchanging unceasing ‘dynamic-energy’, or inseparability of the two aspects / truths, is the creative potential that accounts for everything in both samsara & nirvana.
-
[With/without wisdom:] When directly seen as they really are [U2T], appearances (apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...') are said to be pure like the three inseparable pure kayas; this is nirvana. But when seen with ignorance of their true nature & dynamic [U2T], appearances are said to be impure, dependent on karma, and causing more karma; this is the limitless karmic cycle. But, ultimately, Reality is beyond all dualities like: pure & impure, wisdom & ignorance, samsara & nirvana.
--
[Best Approximation / Pointers to their inconceivable true nature & dynamic:]
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' is pointed by concepts like:
– the inconceivable Union of the Two Truths about apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' [U2T-opp],
– the inconceivable Union of the three spheres about apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' [U3S / U2T-3S-opp],
– the inconceivable Union of opposites about apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' [Non-duality / Oneness / Uopp / U2T-opp],
– the inconceivable Middle Way about apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...',
– the tetralemma about apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...',
– freedom from all extremes & middle, freedom from all dualistic conceptual proliferations, freedom from all limits, freedom from all conditioning / karma,
– the Ground / Basis / Source / Suchness / Dharmata / Dharmadhatu / Buddha-nature / Genuine-emptiness / Ati / Dzogchen / Mahamudra /
– Enlightened-mind / Intrinsic-awareness / Primordial-empty-awareness.
--
[TETRALEMMA:] Apparent opposites like 'opposite-1, opposite-2 ...' are
-- not inherently existent, not completely non-existent, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not permanent / continuous / eternal, not impermanent / discontinuous / annihilated, and there is no fifth;
-- not purely objective / physical / body, not purely subjective / mental / mind, not purely relational / process / conceptual / speech, not two or three of them together, not none of them, and there is no other possibility;
-- not dependent / caused / produced / functional, not independent / uncaused/spontaneous / unproduced / non-functional, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not composite / contextual / conditioned, not non-composite / non-contextual / unconditioned, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind, not not-merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not self-caused, not other-caused, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not changing / evolving, not completely non-changing / evolving, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not empty, not non-empty, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not conventional / relative / false, not absolute / universal / true, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not dependently co-arisen / interdependent / mere-interdependence [T1], not empty of inherent existence / mere-emptiness [T2], not both together [2T], not neither [1T], and there is no fifth;
-- not unequal / impure / imperfect / ordinary / incomplete / bad, not equal / pure / perfect / divine / complete / good, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not unreal / identical to illusions / dreams / mirage / magic tricks, not real / different from illusions / dreams / mirage / magic tricks, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not describable / conceivable / meaningful, not indescribable / inconceivable / meaningless, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth -- for whatever ‘this’ could be -- (this could be generalised for groups of more than two apparent opposites; ex. the three spheres, the three kayas, the three gems, the three times, the four cardinal directions, the five …, the six ...).
-
Meaning their true nature (Ground / Suchness / U2T) is indescribable / inconceivable (in absolute terms) for our flawed conditioned dualistic conceptual mind(s), beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma; beyond all description / conceptualisation, discrimination / differentiation, causality / production, matter-energy, space & time.
So there is no independent / universal / absolute / inherently existing basis for any discrimination / differentiation in absolute terms, just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively.
And there is nothing to accept / affirm / seek / add / do in absolute terms, nothing to reject / negate / abandon / eliminate / subtract / not-do in absolute terms, just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively if it helps someone get closer to the inconceivable liberating Truth: the Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas [U2T], the Union of the three spheres [U3S / U2T-3S], the Union of apparent opposites [Uopp / U2T-opp], the Middle Way in everything, the tetralemma, the primordial spontaneity / equality / purity / perfection / divinity / completeness of all dharmas.
In that sense everything is primordially spontaneous, equal, pure, perfect, divine, complete. Everything is like the pristine display of the Ground / Suchness / Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
It may look complicated but all of this can be resumed into one thing: The Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas. Everything else, all these words, is just to help us to stay away from all possible extremes & middle, and create enough room for a possible inconceivable spontaneous individual non-dualistic non-conceptual direct perception / realisation / experience of the true nature of Reality as it is here & now: U2T.
-
[MIDDLE WAY:]
So the best attitude toward all dharmas is the Middle Way free from all extremes & middle:
nothing to accept / affirm / seek / add / do / cause / produce / change / improve / cultivate / perceive / know / experience / acquire / possess / purify / liberate / achieve ... in absolute terms,
nothing to reject / negate / abandon / eliminate / subtract / not-do / not-cause / not-produce / not-change / not-improve or deteriorate / not-cultivate / not-perceive / not-know / not-experience / not-acquire / not-possess / not-purify or stain / not-liberate or enslave / not-achieve ... in absolute terms,
just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively if it helps someone to get closer to the inconceivable liberating Truth: the Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
-
Extremes like:
i) existence / realism / causality / dependent origination / karma / relative-truth-only [T1],
ii) non-existence / nihilism / mere-nothingness / mere-emptiness / ultimate-truth-only [T2],
iii) both existence & non-existence together / a form of dualism / the two truths together, in opposition / duality of the two truths [2T],
iv) neither existence nor non-existence / a form of monism / neither of the two truths / oneness of the two truths [1T];
or extremes like
v) subject-only / mind-only / idealism / subjectivism,
vi) object-only / naรฏve realism / objectivism,
vii) relation-only / process-only / action-only / relationism / processism,
viii) two or three of them together / pluralism,
ix) none to them / monism.
-
For the latest version of this box see:
Madhyamaka Machine - Blog Post #158
https://www.gilehtblog.com/2021/11/madhyamaka-machine.html)
.
[03. If we put apparent opposites like ‘the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --’ into the Madhyamaka Machine we get: the Union of the three spheres [U3S] // the Union of the Two Truths about the three spheres [U2T-3S].]
(i.e. Version 2021-12-30 - Union of apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' [U3S]:
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' is indescribable / inconceivable for our flawed conditioned dualistic conceptual mind(s) based on two erroneous basic assumptions -- inherent existence and opposition / duality --;
it has to be spontaneously personally non-conceptually non-dualistically directly perceived / realised / experienced / abided in.
--
[U3S: APPARENT OPPOSITES LIKE 'THE THREE SPHERES -- EX. SUBJECT / MIND, RELATION / ACTION / AWARENESS, OBJECT / PHENOMENA --' ARE EQUAL PURE PERFECT INSEPARABLE MANIFESTATIONS OF THE GROUND:]
Apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' are spontaneous natural non-dual manifestations of the Ground, inseparable from the Ground: this inconceivable unique all-pervasive unborn unchanging unconditioned unceasing pristine Ground / Basis / Source / Suchness / Dharmata / Dharmadhatu / Buddha-nature / Genuine-emptiness / Ati / Dzogchen / Mahamudra / Intrinsic-awareness / Primordial-empty-awareness / Awakened-mind / Naturally-coemergent-timeless-awareness / Union of the Two Truths [U2T] … the inconceivable unique true nature & dynamic of all dharmas beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma; beyond all views, methods and goals; beyond all desciption / conceptualisation, discrimination / dualities, causality / production, matter-energy, space & time; beyond both samsara & nirvana.
--
[U2T-3S: UNION OF THE TWO TRUTHS ABOUT APPARENT OPPOSITES LIKE 'THE THREE SPHERES -- EX. SUBJECT / MIND, RELATION / ACTION / AWARENESS, OBJECT / PHENOMENA --':]
[Uopp] Apparent opposites are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists without the other(s)), interdependent (one implies the other(s)), co-defined (the definition of one defines the other(s)), co-relative, co-dependent, co-emergent (they arise together), co-evolving (they change together), co-ceasing / co-transcended (they cease together), in harmony (not in real opposition) (in the non-dual sense of those terms: ex. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither).
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --'
is like an ineffable / inconceivable Union of being conventionally dependently co-arisen (interdependent) relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances [T1 - first truth], co-dependent with their parts (when applicable), with their causes & conditions (when applicable), their conceptual opposite(s) (always), and especially co-dependent with the mind merely labelling / imputing / conceptualising / classifying them [U3S] in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, not completely non-dependently-arising / non-existent / non-changing / non-functional / non-ceasing / useless / meaningless
<==> and being empty of inherent existence [T2 - second truth], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute, but more like open / free, not really dependently-co-arisen / co-existent / co-changing / co-functional / co-ceasing.
One aspect / truth implies the other (<==>) [U2T], one aspect / truth proves the other (<==>).
’They are there but not there’, like dreams / magical illusions / tricks of the sight / mirages / reflections / echos / Cities of Gandharvas / emanated apparitions. They are 'like them in some aspect(s)' but not exactly the same; all metaphors have their limits.
Apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' are dependently co-appearing & relatively functional <==> but still empty of inherent existence; empty of inherent existence <==> but still conventionally dependently co-appearing & relatively functional. And that is not grasping at the conventional / relative, or at the ultimate / emptiness, or both together, or neither.
[TETRALEMMA:] Apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' are not inherently existent (still empty of inherent existence) <==> but still not completely non-existent (still conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances), not both existent & non-existent together, not neither existent nor non-existent, and there is no fifth. This is another way to express the inconceivable Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
[BEYOND:] Meaning their true nature is indescribable / inconceivable, beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma (physical, conceptual, mental) x (individual, collective, cosmic).
-
[U2T-2T:] Theses two aspects / truths -- dependent co-origination & functionality [T1] and emptiness of inherent existence [T2] --, like any group of apparent opposites, are inseparable (one cannot exists without the other), interdependent (one implies the other), co-defined (the definition of one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-emergent (they arise together), co-evolving (they change together), co-ceasing / co-transcended (they cease together), in harmony (not in real opposition) (in the non-dual sense of those terms: not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither) [T1-2T] <==> thus themselves empty of inherent existence [T2-2T].
The two truths are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth. So apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' are not really arising [T1] or not, not really empty of inherent existence [T2] or not, not really both together [2T], not really neither [1T], and there is no fifth.
The two truths themselves and their Union are mere pointers to the inconceivable, mere tools, mere imperfect temporary adapted skillful means. So there is nothing left here to grasp as independent / universal / absolute / inherently existing. Everything is like luminous space, a limitless & centerless ocean of interdependence and emptiness.
-
[The three inseparable qualities of the Ground:] The emptiness of inherent existence [T2] is called the essence of the Ground; the conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances [T1] is called the nature of the Ground; the inseparability / interdependence / harmony / Union between those two aspects [U2T] is called the dynamic-energy / compassionate-energy of the Ground.
This primordial unborn unchanging unceasing ‘dynamic-energy’, or inseparability of the two aspects / truths, is the creative potential that accounts for everything in both samsara & nirvana.
-
[With/without wisdom:] When directly seen as they really are [U2T], appearances (apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --') are said to be pure like the three inseparable pure kayas; this is nirvana. But when seen with ignorance of their true nature & dynamic [U2T], appearances are said to be impure, dependent on karma, and causing more karma; this is the limitless karmic cycle. But, ultimately, Reality is beyond all dualities like: pure & impure, wisdom & ignorance, samsara & nirvana.
--
[Best Approximation / Pointers to their inconceivable true nature & dynamic:]
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' is pointed by concepts like:
– the inconceivable Union of the Two Truths about apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' [U2T-3S],
– the inconceivable Union of the three spheres about apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' [U3S / U2T-3S-3S],
– the inconceivable Union of opposites about apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' [Non-duality / Oneness / Uopp / U2T-opp-3S],
– the inconceivable Middle Way about apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --',
– the tetralemma about apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --',
– freedom from all extremes & middle, freedom from all dualistic conceptual proliferations, freedom from all limits, freedom from all conditioning / karma,
– the Ground / Basis / Source / Suchness / Dharmata / Dharmadhatu / Buddha-nature / Genuine-emptiness / Ati / Dzogchen / Mahamudra /
– Enlightened-mind / Intrinsic-awareness / Primordial-empty-awareness.
--
[TETRALEMMA:] Apparent opposites like 'the three spheres -- ex. subject / mind, relation / action / awareness, object / phenomena --' are
-- not inherently existent, not completely non-existent, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not permanent / continuous / eternal, not impermanent / discontinuous / annihilated, and there is no fifth;
-- not purely objective / physical / body, not purely subjective / mental / mind, not purely relational / process / conceptual / speech, not two or three of them together, not none of them, and there is no other possibility;
-- not dependent / caused / produced / functional, not independent / uncaused/spontaneous / unproduced / non-functional, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not composite / contextual / conditioned, not non-composite / non-contextual / unconditioned, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind, not not-merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not self-caused, not other-caused, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not changing / evolving, not completely non-changing / evolving, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not empty, not non-empty, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not conventional / relative / false, not absolute / universal / true, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not dependently co-arisen / interdependent / mere-interdependence [T1], not empty of inherent existence / mere-emptiness [T2], not both together [2T], not neither [1T], and there is no fifth;
-- not unequal / impure / imperfect / ordinary / incomplete / bad, not equal / pure / perfect / divine / complete / good, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not unreal / identical to illusions / dreams / mirage / magic tricks, not real / different from illusions / dreams / mirage / magic tricks, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not describable / conceivable / meaningful, not indescribable / inconceivable / meaningless, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth -- for whatever ‘this’ could be -- (this could be generalised for groups of more than two apparent opposites; ex. the three spheres, the three kayas, the three gems, the three times, the four cardinal directions, the five …, the six ...).
-
Meaning their true nature (Ground / Suchness / U2T) is indescribable / inconceivable (in absolute terms) for our flawed conditioned dualistic conceptual mind(s), beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma; beyond all description / conceptualisation, discrimination / differentiation, causality / production, matter-energy, space & time.
So there is no independent / universal / absolute / inherently existing basis for any discrimination / differentiation in absolute terms, just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively.
And there is nothing to accept / affirm / seek / add / do in absolute terms, nothing to reject / negate / abandon / eliminate / subtract / not-do in absolute terms, just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively if it helps someone get closer to the inconceivable liberating Truth: the Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas [U2T], the Union of the three spheres [U3S / U2T-3S], the Union of apparent opposites [Uopp / U2T-opp], the Middle Way in everything, the tetralemma, the primordial spontaneity / equality / purity / perfection / divinity / completeness of all dharmas.
In that sense everything is primordially spontaneous, equal, pure, perfect, divine, complete. Everything is like the pristine display of the Ground / Suchness / Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
It may look complicated but all of this can be resumed into one thing: The Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas. Everything else, all these words, is just to help us to stay away from all possible extremes & middle, and create enough room for a possible inconceivable spontaneous individual non-dualistic non-conceptual direct perception / realisation / experience of the true nature of Reality as it is here & now: U2T.
-
[MIDDLE WAY:]
So the best attitude toward all dharmas is the Middle Way free from all extremes & middle:
nothing to accept / affirm / seek / add / do / cause / produce / change / improve / cultivate / perceive / know / experience / acquire / possess / purify / liberate / achieve ... in absolute terms,
nothing to reject / negate / abandon / eliminate / subtract / not-do / not-cause / not-produce / not-change / not-improve or deteriorate / not-cultivate / not-perceive / not-know / not-experience / not-acquire / not-possess / not-purify or stain / not-liberate or enslave / not-achieve ... in absolute terms,
just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively if it helps someone to get closer to the inconceivable liberating Truth: the Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
-
Extremes like:
i) existence / realism / causality / dependent origination / karma / relative-truth-only [T1],
ii) non-existence / nihilism / mere-nothingness / mere-emptiness / ultimate-truth-only [T2],
iii) both existence & non-existence together / a form of dualism / the two truths together, in opposition / duality of the two truths [2T],
iv) neither existence nor non-existence / a form of monism / neither of the two truths / oneness of the two truths [1T];
or extremes like
v) subject-only / mind-only / idealism / subjectivism,
vi) object-only / naรฏve realism / objectivism,
vii) relation-only / process-only / action-only / relationism / processism,
viii) two or three of them together / pluralism,
ix) none to them / monism.
-
For the latest version of this box see:
Madhyamaka Machine - Blog Post #158
https://www.gilehtblog.com/2021/11/madhyamaka-machine.html)
.
[04. If we put apparent opposites like ‘the two truths -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence --’ into the Madhyamaka Machine we get: the Union of the Two Truths about the two truths themselves [U2T-2T].]
(i.e. Version 2021-12-30 - Union of apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination & relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- [U2T-2T]:
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- is indescribable / inconceivable for our flawed conditioned dualistic conceptual mind(s) based on two erroneous basic assumptions -- inherent existence and opposition / duality --;
it has to be spontaneously personally non-conceptually non-dualistically directly perceived / realised / experienced / abided in.
--
[U2T-2T: APPARENT OPPOSITES LIKE ‘THE TWO TRUTHS’ -- DEPENDENT ORIGINATION / RELATIVE FUNCTIONALITY AND EMPTINESS OF INHERENT EXISTENCE -- ARE EQUAL PURE PERFECT INSEPARABLE MANIFESTATIONS OF THE GROUND:]
Apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- are spontaneous natural non-dual manifestations of the Ground, inseparable from the Ground: this inconceivable unique all-pervasive unborn unchanging unconditioned unceasing pristine Ground / Basis / Source / Suchness / Dharmata / Dharmadhatu / Buddha-nature / Genuine-emptiness / Ati / Dzogchen / Mahamudra / Intrinsic-awareness / Primordial-empty-awareness / Awakened-mind / Naturally-coemergent-timeless-awareness / Union of the Two Truths [U2T] … the inconceivable unique true nature & dynamic of all dharmas beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma; beyond all views, methods and goals; beyond all desciption / conceptualisation, discrimination / dualities, causality / production, matter-energy, space & time; beyond both samsara & nirvana.
--
[U2T-2T: UNION OF THE TWO TRUTHS ABOUT APPARENT OPPOSITES LIKE ‘THE TWO TRUTHS’ -- DEPENDENT ORIGINATION / RELATIVE FUNCTIONALITY AND EMPTINESS OF INHERENT EXISTENCE --:]
[Uopp] Apparent opposites are not really in opposition, but more like inseparable (one cannot exists without the other(s)), interdependent (one implies the other(s)), co-defined (the definition of one defines the other(s)), co-relative, co-dependent, co-emergent (they arise together), co-evolving (they change together), co-ceasing / co-transcended (they cease together), in harmony (not in real opposition) (in the non-dual sense of those terms: ex. not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither).
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence --
is like an ineffable / inconceivable Union of being conventionally dependently co-arisen (interdependent) relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances [T1 - first truth], co-dependent with their parts (when applicable), with their causes & conditions (when applicable), their conceptual opposite(s) (always), and especially co-dependent with the mind merely labelling / imputing / conceptualising / classifying them [U3S] in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma, not completely non-dependently-arising / non-existent / non-changing / non-functional / non-ceasing / useless / meaningless
<==> and being empty of inherent existence [T2 - second truth], never fixed / independent / separate / universal / absolute, but more like open / free, not really dependently-co-arisen / co-existent / co-changing / co-functional / co-ceasing.
One aspect / truth implies the other (<==>) [U2T], one aspect / truth proves the other (<==>).
’They are there but not there’, like dreams / magical illusions / tricks of the sight / mirages / reflections / echos / Cities of Gandharvas / emanated apparitions. They are 'like them in some aspect(s)' but not exactly the same; all metaphors have their limits.
Apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- are dependently co-appearing & relatively functional <==> but still empty of inherent existence; empty of inherent existence <==> but still conventionally dependently co-appearing & relatively functional. And that is not grasping at the conventional / relative, or at the ultimate / emptiness, or both together, or neither.
[TETRALEMMA:] Apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- are not inherently existent (still empty of inherent existence) <==> but still not completely non-existent (still conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances), not both existent & non-existent together, not neither existent nor non-existent, and there is no fifth. This is another way to express the inconceivable Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
[BEYOND:] Meaning their true nature is indescribable / inconceivable, beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma (physical, conceptual, mental) x (individual, collective, cosmic).
-
[U2T-2T:] Theses two aspects / truths -- dependent co-origination & functionality [T1] and emptiness of inherent existence [T2] --, like any group of apparent opposites, are inseparable (one cannot exists without the other), interdependent (one implies the other), co-defined (the definition of one defines the other), co-relative, co-dependent, co-emergent (they arise together), co-evolving (they change together), co-ceasing / co-transcended (they cease together), in harmony (not in real opposition) (in the non-dual sense of those terms: not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither) [T1-2T] <==> thus themselves empty of inherent existence [T2-2T].
The two truths are not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth. So the two truths -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- are not really arising [T1] or not, not really empty of inherent existence [T2] or not, not really both together [2T], not really neither [1T], and there is no fifth.
Apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ themselves and their Union are mere pointers to the inconceivable, mere tools, mere imperfect temporary adapted skillful means. So there is nothing left here to grasp as independent / universal / absolute / inherently existing. Everything is like luminous space, a limitless & centerless ocean of interdependence and emptiness.
-
[The three inseparable qualities of the Ground:] The emptiness of inherent existence [T2] is called the essence of the Ground; the conventionally dependently co-arisen relatively functional ever-changing impermanent appearances [T1] is called the nature of the Ground; the inseparability / interdependence / harmony / Union between those two aspects [U2T] is called the dynamic-energy / compassionate-energy of the Ground.
This primordial unborn unchanging unceasing ‘dynamic-energy’, or inseparability of the two aspects / truths, is the creative potential that accounts for everything in both samsara & nirvana.
-
[With/without wisdom:] When directly seen as they really are [U2T], appearances (apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence --) are said to be pure like the three inseparable pure kayas; this is nirvana. But when seen with ignorance of their true nature & dynamic [U2T], appearances are said to be impure, dependent on karma, and causing more karma; this is the limitless karmic cycle. But, ultimately, Reality is beyond all dualities like: pure & impure, wisdom & ignorance, samsara & nirvana.
--
[Best Approximation / Pointers to their inconceivable true nature & dynamic:]
The true nature & dynamic of apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- is pointed by concepts like:
– the inconceivable Union of the Two Truths about apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- [U2T-2T],
– the inconceivable Union of the three spheres about apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- [U3S / U2T-3S-2T],
– the inconceivable Union of opposites about apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- [Non-duality / Oneness / Uopp / U2T-opp-2T],
– the inconceivable Middle Way about apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence --,
– the tetralemma about apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence --,
– freedom from all extremes & middle, freedom from all dualistic conceptual proliferations, freedom from all limits, freedom from all conditioning / karma,
– the Ground / Basis / Source / Suchness / Dharmata / Dharmadhatu / Buddha-nature / Genuine-emptiness / Ati / Dzogchen / Mahamudra /
– Enlightened-mind / Intrinsic-awareness / Primordial-empty-awareness.
--
[TETRALEMMA:] Apparent opposites like ‘the two truths’ -- dependent origination / relative functionality and emptiness of inherent existence -- are
-- not inherently existent, not completely non-existent, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not different / separate / multiple / dual, not identical / united / one / non-dual, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not permanent / continuous / eternal, not impermanent / discontinuous / annihilated, and there is no fifth;
-- not purely objective / physical / body, not purely subjective / mental / mind, not purely relational / process / conceptual / speech, not two or three of them together, not none of them, and there is no other possibility;
-- not dependent / caused / produced / functional, not independent / uncaused/spontaneous / unproduced / non-functional, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not composite / contextual / conditioned, not non-composite / non-contextual / unconditioned, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind, not not-merely labelled / imputed / conceptualised by the mind, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not self-caused, not other-caused, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not changing / evolving, not completely non-changing / evolving, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not empty, not non-empty, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not conventional / relative / false, not absolute / universal / true, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not dependently co-arisen / interdependent / mere-interdependence [T1], not empty of inherent existence / mere-emptiness [T2], not both together [2T], not neither [1T], and there is no fifth;
-- not unequal / impure / imperfect / ordinary / incomplete / bad, not equal / pure / perfect / divine / complete / good, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not unreal / identical to illusions / dreams / mirage / magic tricks, not real / different from illusions / dreams / mirage / magic tricks, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not describable / conceivable / meaningful, not indescribable / inconceivable / meaningless, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth;
-- not this, not non-this, not both together, not neither, and there is no fifth -- for whatever ‘this’ could be -- (this could be generalised for groups of more than two apparent opposites; ex. the three spheres, the three kayas, the three gems, the three times, the four cardinal directions, the five …, the six ...).
-
Meaning their true nature (Ground / Suchness / U2T) is indescribable / inconceivable (in absolute terms) for our flawed conditioned dualistic conceptual mind(s), beyond all extremes & middle, beyond all dualistic conceptual proliferations, beyond all limits, beyond all conditioning / karma; beyond all description / conceptualisation, discrimination / differentiation, causality / production, matter-energy, space & time.
So there is no independent / universal / absolute / inherently existing basis for any discrimination / differentiation in absolute terms, just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively.
And there is nothing to accept / affirm / seek / add / do in absolute terms, nothing to reject / negate / abandon / eliminate / subtract / not-do in absolute terms, just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively if it helps someone get closer to the inconceivable liberating Truth: the Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas [U2T], the Union of the three spheres [U3S / U2T-3S], the Union of apparent opposites [Uopp / U2T-opp], the Middle Way in everything, the tetralemma, the primordial spontaneity / equality / purity / perfection / divinity / completeness of all dharmas.
In that sense everything is primordially spontaneous, equal, pure, perfect, divine, complete. Everything is like the pristine display of the Ground / Suchness / Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
It may look complicated but all of this can be resumed into one thing: The Union of the Two Truths about all dharmas. Everything else, all these words, is just to help us to stay away from all possible extremes & middle, and create enough room for a possible inconceivable spontaneous individual non-dualistic non-conceptual direct perception / realisation / experience of the true nature of Reality as it is here & now: U2T.
-
[MIDDLE WAY:]
So the best attitude toward all dharmas is the Middle Way free from all extremes & middle:
nothing to accept / affirm / seek / add / do / cause / produce / change / improve / cultivate / perceive / know / experience / acquire / possess / purify / liberate / achieve ... in absolute terms,
nothing to reject / negate / abandon / eliminate / subtract / not-do / not-cause / not-produce / not-change / not-improve or deteriorate / not-cultivate / not-perceive / not-know / not-experience / not-acquire / not-possess / not-purify or stain / not-liberate or enslave / not-achieve ... in absolute terms,
just conventionally / relatively / inter-subjectively if it helps someone to get closer to the inconceivable liberating Truth: the Union of the Two Truths [U2T].
-
Extremes like:
i) existence / realism / causality / dependent origination / karma / relative-truth-only [T1],
ii) non-existence / nihilism / mere-nothingness / mere-emptiness / ultimate-truth-only [T2],
iii) both existence & non-existence together / a form of dualism / the two truths together, in opposition / duality of the two truths [2T],
iv) neither existence nor non-existence / a form of monism / neither of the two truths / oneness of the two truths [1T];
or extremes like
v) subject-only / mind-only / idealism / subjectivism,
vi) object-only / naรฏve realism / objectivism,
vii) relation-only / process-only / action-only / relationism / processism,
viii) two or three of them together / pluralism,
ix) none to them / monism.
-
For the latest version of this box see:
Madhyamaka Machine - Blog Post #158
https://www.gilehtblog.com/2021/11/madhyamaka-machine.html).
.
.
.
.
QUOTES:
Let appearance and awareness be indivisible ~ Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche
Do not divide appearances (OBJECTS) as being there and awareness (SUBJECT) as being here.
Let appearance (objects) and awareness (subject) be indivisible (in Union).
(i.e. Union of the three spheres: Union subject / mind / awareness <==> relation / action <==> object / phenomena / world; Union subject / actor / perceiver / knower <==> relation / action / perception / cognition <==> object / result / perceived / known.)
-- Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche
from the book Vajra Speech: A Commentary on The Quintessence of Spiritual
https://quotes.justdharma.com/let-appearance-and-awareness-be-indivisible-tulku-urgyen-rinpoche/
=======================
Seeing naked awareness ~ Dudjom Rinpoche
Rest at ease within the uncontrived nature of mind.
By looking, nothing is seen (as separate, independent, inherently existing or completely non-existing);
Seeing nothing (emptiness) is actually to see naked (unconditioned) awareness (innate cognizance / clear light / luminosity / functionality): (Union of the Two Truths)
That itself is Buddha Kuntu Zangpo.
-- Dudjom Rinpoche
from the book Wisdom Nectar: Dudjom Rinpoche's Heart Advice
https://quotes.justdharma.com/seeing-naked-awareness-dudjom-rinpoche/
=======================
ENJOYING WITH AWARENESS ~ Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche
If we are spiritual practitioners we feel contempt for samsaric situations; we are not seriously or deeply interested in them. This does not mean that we feel disgust for or reject everything. In our life, all is relative. In our life, not everything is how it should be, nonetheless we continue to live. We accept and integrate the various circumstances of life. This is part of our awareness. To accept everything with awareness is different from being completely attached. Some people have an exaggerated liking for this or that: this is attachment. However, it does not mean that if you are a good practitioner you cannot have likings. You can like and enjoy with awareness. In the samsaric condition, we possess five or six senses, and with the senses we enjoy contact with objects. When we see an object, a flower for example, we may like it. We observe its beauty and smell its fragrance. We enjoy looking and smelling. TO ENJOY WITH AWARENESS MEANS TO KNOW THE REAL NATURE OF THE OBJECT (of the three spheres) AND NOT BECOME ATTACHED TO IT (them). In this way, we enjoy without having negative consequences (without creating bad karma). If we are not aware, we become distracted with our liking for the flower; we want to possess the flower and attempt to have it. Thus, attachment increases, releasing all other emotions, with the ensuing negative karma. In brief, if one is aware and undistracted the enjoyment of the senses does not pose any problem. If one is distracted, enjoyment always bears negative consequences, even if things appear joyful and gratifying. For that reason, the teaching says that all is illusion. When we see a nice object and we become attached, we resemble a moth which, attracted by a flame at night, flies into it, burns, and dies.
-- Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche
from the book Longchenpa's Advice from the Heart
https://quotes.justdharma.com/enjoying-with-awareness-namkhai-norbu-rinpoche/
=======================
Beginning to identify with pristine awareness ~ Mingyur Rinpoche
Though we’re conditioned to identify with the (conditioned impermanent) thoughts that pass through our awareness rather than with (unconditioned permanent) awareness itself (inseparable from its objects), the awareness that is our true nature is infinitely flexible. It is capable of any and every sort of experience – even misconceptions about itself as limited, trapped, ugly, anxious, lonely, or afraid. When we begin to identify with that TIMELESS, PRISTINE AWARENESS rather than (just) with the thoughts, feelings, and sensations that pass through it, we’ve taken the first step toward facing the freedom of our true nature.
(i.e. This timeless pristine awareness = Union subject / awareness <==> objects / luminosity / displays -- pure or impure --. Union clarity / luminosity / functionality <==> emptiness.)
-- Mingyur Rinpoche
from the book Joyful Wisdom: Embracing Change and Finding Freedom
https://quotes.justdharma.com/beginning-to-identify-with-pristine-awareness-mingyur-rinpoche/
=======================
In the crystal mirror theater of awareness mind ~ Thinley Norbu Rinpoche
[UNION] In the crystal mirror theater of AWARENESS mind the supreme artist performs his magical DISPLAYS, but rare is the clear insight audience capable of viewing this wisdom.
(i.e. The two are inseparable = Union absolute & relative; Union pure & impure; Union nirvana & samsara.)
-- Thinley Norbu Rinpoche
from the book Magic Dance: The Display of the Self-Nature of the Five Wisdom Dakinis
https://quotes.justdharma.com/in-the-crystal-mirror-theater-of-awareness-mind/
=======================
Awareness is like the light of the new moon ~ Jigme Lingpa
Awareness does not engage with objects of the ordinary mind. It is “self-cognizing primordial wisdom.” This can be illustrated by the “light” of the new moon: a profoundly indwelling luminosity, which does not radiate outward. Therefore, despite the fact that the five primordial wisdoms are spontaneously present in awareness, the latter is without [reifying / grasping / dualistic] thoughts related to sense objects [existing separately / independently / inherently / absolutely]. By contrast, even when it is still, the ordinary mind nevertheless “moves” and follows after different objects. It is like the light of the moon on the fifteenth of the month, which radiates outward and engulfs everything.
-- Jigme Lingpa
https://quotes.justdharma.com/awareness-is-like-the-light-of-the-new-moon-jigme-lingpa/
=======================
Recognizing awareness ~ Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
The moon’s reflection on water appears without obstruction and seems to shine very brightly, yet it is simply the appearance (1st truth) of something that does not exist (2nd truth: emptiness of inherent existence). There is no such thing as a moon in the water. Likewise, when one recognizes that thoughts have no true existence (emptiness), one recognizes awareness (cognizance / functionality / capacity of knowing), and this is dharmakaya.
-- Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
from the book Zurchungpa's Testament
https://quotes.justdharma.com/recognizing-awareness-dilgo-khyentse-rinpoche/
=======================
Just that awareness that engages in all these activities ~ Garchen Rinpoche
We must understand that Buddha nature and its wisdom are inherent in our minds. It is extensively explained by many great scholars and masters, but it is very simple. It is just that awareness that engages in all these activities, worldly or dharmic. It is the one who thinks “I must do this, do that, go here or there,” or the scientists building planes and improving the world doing this and that. It is just that awareness engaging in all these activities and doing all these things that we must recognize.
If we ride the horse of self-grasping and merge the mind with self-grasping, we will only go down further and further into samsara — we will have to continue wandering in samsara.
But if we ride the horse of loving-kindness and compassion we will go more and more through the enlightened qualities of the Buddha; the nirmanakaya, then the sambhogakaya, then the dharmakaya — we will go up to complete enlightenment.
Another example is like a big tree. The lower part, the roots, represents the lower realms and self-grasping, the pain of self-grasping. If there is self-grasping we will always abide at the lower part of the tree. But if we give rise to the altruistic mind then we go up to the higher parts of the tree — the branches, the foliage, the leaves, the flowers and fruits and so on. There is still just one tree, one single ground, but if we abide at the bottom we experience great suffering and great difficulty from the self-grasping mind, but if we go up we bring about the benefit of others and our own happiness. The basis, the ground, is a single one — buddha nature.
-- Garchen Rinpoche
=======================
Mindful awareness and mental afflictions ~ Garchen Rinpoche
Milarepa has taught that, in actuality, MINDFUL AWARENESS AND MENTAL AFFLICTIONS – one’s own awareness and mental afflictions – ARE NOT SEPARATE (in UNION), because mental afflictions and concepts are in the nature of emptiness. If one realizes this through meditation, then one realizes that actually wisdom and mental afflictions are non-distinct (in Union).
We talk about the five types of primordial awareness, such as the individually discriminating awareness and so forth, but they all have one essential meaning, which is mindful awareness. This mindful awareness is similar to fire, and the five mental afflictions are like fuel for the fire, the wood. When wood is burned up by the fire, then the wood itself becomes fire, and the fire gets ever stronger. Therefore the mental afflictions are not separate from (in Union with) one’s primordial awareness. They are primordial awareness; this is the view of mahamudra.
-- Garchen Rinpoche
https://quotes.justdharma.com/mindful-awareness-and-mental-afflictions/
=======================
Clarity ~ Mingyur Rinpoche
Clarity is always functioning
even when we’re not consciously attentive to it.
-- Mingyur Rinpoche
https://quotes.justdharma.com/clarity/
=======================
Resting the mind in its natural clarity ~ Mingyur Rinpoche
When we meditate in this objectless state, we’re actually resting the mind in its natural clarity, entirely indifferent to the passage of thoughts and emotions. This natural clarity – which is beyond any dualistic grasping of subject and object – is always present for us in the same way that space is always present.
-- Mingyur Rinpoche
https://quotes.justdharma.com/resting-mind-natural.../
=======================
The assertion “not thinking anything” is a denial of wisdom, the very characteristic of pure discernment. Since the root of pure wisdom is pure discernment, if you reject discernment you are abandoning the wisdom that transcends samsara, as you have cut it from the root.
-- Tulku Thondup, October 2 2020
https://www.facebook.com/TulkuThondup/
=======================
The ability to see this brilliant landscape ~ Mingyur Rinpoche
Clarity is a sense of being able to see into the nature of things as though all reality were a landscape lit up on a brilliantly sunny day without clouds. Everything appears distinct and everything makes sense. Even disturbing thoughts and emotions have their place in this brilliant landscape.
– Mingyur Rinpoche
from the book "The Joy of Living: Unlocking the Secret and Science of Happiness"
https://quotes.justdharma.com/the-ability-to-see-this-brilliant-landscape/
=======================
Experiencing without getting involved ~ Ringu Tulku
A great meditator can experience everything and view all the impressions of the senses without getting involved and entangled, without making anything up. The point is how we deal with and react to appearances. ...
And Tilopa said to Naropa,
'My son, appearance does not bind you,
it's your grasping that binds you.'
– Ringu Tulku
from the book "Daring Steps: Traversing The Path Of The Buddha"
https://quotes.justdharma.com/experiencing-without-getting-involved/
=======================
THOUGHTS SELF-LIBERATED - Khenpo Tsรผltrim Gyamtso Rinpoche
To practice self-liberating thoughts, whatever thought arises in your mind, just look at it and let go and relax. Look straight at its essential nature and let go and relax; it will be self-liberated. Do not concern yourself with what you are thinking about. Do not concern yourself with the object of your thoughts, whether it is a person or a thing. Just look at the essence of the thought itself.
From The Melody of Dharmata: Verses on the Profound View of the Middle Way,
Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche, translated by Ari Goldfield & Jim Scott, P.47.
http://www.ktgrinpoche.org/quote/thoughts-self-liberated
=======================
"In brief, from the beginning, awareness has never existed as a substantial entity with elaborated characteristics (EMPTINESS), its nature is primarily pure, void, vast, and all-pervasive.
As the RADIANCE (CLARITY / FUNCTIONALITY) of voidness is unobstructed, the ocean of phenomena of samsara and nirvana appears spontaneously, like the sun and its rays; thus awareness is not a blank nothingness, totally void, for its NATURAL EXPRESSION is the great spontaneous presence of the quali๏ฌes of primordial wisdom."
- Kabjye Dudjom Rinpoche - On The Path to Enlightenment by Matthieu Ricard
=======================
Acknowledging all your experience as something ordinary ~ Mingyur Rinpoche
Wherever you are, whatever you do, it’s essential to acknowledge your experience as something ordinary, THE NATURAL EXPRESSION OF YOUR TRUE MIND. If you don’t try to stop whatever is going on in your mind, but merely observe it, eventually you’ll begin to feel a tremendous sense of relaxation, a vast sense of openness within your mind – which is in fact the natural mind, the naturally unperturbed background against which various thoughts come and go.
– Mingyur Rinpoche
from the book "The Joy of Living: Unlocking the Secret and Science of Happiness"
https://quotes.justdharma.com/acknowledging-all-your-experience-as-something-ordinary/
=======================
Awareness itself ~ Dudjom Rinpoche
Although hundreds or thousands of explanations are given,
There is only one thing to be understood –
Know the one thing that liberates everything –
Awareness itself, your true nature.
-- Dudjom Rinpoche
from the book Wisdom Nectar: Dudjom Rinpoche's Heart Advice
https://quotes.justdharma.com/awareness-itself/
=======================
The dawn of naked wisdom ~ Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
When about to settle in the natural way of mind-essence, some people merely try to stay conscious and aware. Then they rest in this state of mental consciousness with the feeling: “Ah, how clear!” (i.e. making it an object independent of the subject) Other people fixate on a state of utter void as if their mind had gone blank (i.e. falling into nihilism / no-thought / no-mind / no-concepts / no-discrimination / no feeling …).
Both of these cases, however, are simply aspects of consciousness clinging to a dualistic experience. Whenever this duality occurs —
between the // CLARITY // (AS AN OBJECT) and the one (SUBJECT) perceiving (RELATION / ACTION) clarity,
[or between] the // EMPTINESS // (AS AN OBJECT) and the (SUBJECT) perceiving (RELATION / ACTION) emptiness
— look into the nature of this stream of rigidly fixated mindfulness.
By doing so, you pull up the stake to which the dualistic mind, which holds to a perceiver (SUBJECT) and something perceived (OBJECT), is tethered, (i.e. Union of the three spheres.)
and make room for the naked, wide-open natural state of awareness — a LUMINOUS EMPTINESS without center or edge. (i.e. Union of the Two Truths free from all extremes / edge & middle / center.)
To apprehend in a non-dual way this luminous and open, natural state is the essence of awareness. (i.e. Awareness without any separation / division between the three spheres -- subject, relation / action, object --, or between the two truths -- dependent origination / functionality and emptiness --.)
It is the dawn of NAKED WISDOM, free from the veils of fixated (GRASPED) experience.
Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
https://quotes.justdharma.com/the-dawn-of-naked-wisdom-dilgo-khyentse-rinpoche/
=======================
Essence of mind ~ Mipham Rinpoche
What we call “essence of mind” is the actual face of unconditioned pure awareness, which is recognised through receiving the guru’s blessings and instructions. If you wonder what this is like, it is EMPTY in essence, beyond conceptual reference; it is COGNIZANT [FUNCTIONAL] by nature, spontaneously present; and it is all-pervasive and UNOBSTRUCTED [UNION] in its compassionate energy. This is the rigpa in which the three kayas are inseparable.
-- Mipham Rinpoche
https://quotes.justdharma.com/essence-of-mind-mipham-rinpoche/
=======================
Self-liberation ~ Traleg Kyabgon Rinpoche
In the mahamudra tradition, the notion of SELF-LIBERATION is paramount. Through self-liberating our conflicting emotions and discursive thoughts by allowing them to simply arise and dissipate without any grasping or fixation, we transcend any spiritual requirement to renounce, purify, or transform them. This is the unique skillful means of path mahamudra that inexorably leads to spiritual realization.
-- Traleg Kyabgon Rinpoche
from the book Mind at Ease: Self-Liberation through Mahamudra Meditation
https://quotes.justdharma.com/self-liberation-traleg-kyabgon-rinpoche/
=======================
SELF-LIBERATE EVEN THE ANTIDOTE ~ Pema Chรถdron
In case you thought you understood “Examine the nature of unborn awareness,” let go even of that understanding, that poise, that security, that sense of ground. Let go even of the idea of emptiness, of openness, of space… so whenever you come up with a solid conclusion, let the rug be pulled out. You can pull out your own rug, and you can also let life pull it out for you.
So if you think that everything is solid, that’s one trap, and if you change that for a different belief system, that’s another trap. We have to pull out the rug from under our belief systems altogether. We can do that by letting go of our beliefs, and also our sense of what is right and wrong, by just going back to the simplicity and the immediacy of our present experience, resting in the nature of alaya.
-- Pema Chรถdron
from the book Start Where You Are: A Guide to Compassionate Living
https://quotes.justdharma.com/self-liberate-even-the-antidote/
=======================
The practitioner of self-liberation ~ Patrul Rinpoche
The practitioner of SELF-LIBERATION is like an ordinary person as far as the way in which the thoughts of pleasure and pain, hope and fear, manifest themselves as creative energy. However, the ordinary person, taking these really seriously and judging them as acceptable or rejecting them, continues to get caught up in situations and becomes conditioned by attachment and aversion.
Not doing this, a practitioner, when such thoughts arise, experiences freedom: initially, by recognizing the thought for what it is, it is freed just like meeting a previous acquaintance; then it is freed in and of itself, like a snake shedding its skin; and finally, thought is freed in being unable to be of benefit or harm, like a thief entering an empty house.
-- Patrul Rinpoche
quoted in the book You Are the Eyes of the World
https://quotes.justdharma.com/the-practitioner-of-self-liberation/
=======================
Anger self-liberated ~ Patrul Rinpoche
Do not chase after the object of your anger –
look at the angry mind,
Anger is self-arisen and SELF-LIBERATED,
clarity-emptiness by nature,
Clarity-emptiness is nothing other than
mirror-like wisdom –
Within anger self-liberated, recite the
six-syllable mantra.
-- Patrul Rinpoche
https://quotes.justdharma.com/anger-self-liberated-patrul-rinpoche/
=======================
Essential Mahamudra Verses ~ Maitripa
.
To innermost BLISS, I pay homage!
.
Were I to explain Mahamudra, I would say—
All phenomena (OBJECTS)? Your own mind (SUBJECT)!
(THE 3 SPHERES: SUBJECT & OBJECT & ACTION ARE CO-DEPENDENT -- 1st truth)
If you look outside for meaning, you'll get confused.
Phenomena are like a dream, [ALL] EMPTY OF TRUE NATURE (2nd truth),
.
And mind is merely the flux of awareness
(1st truth - DEPENDENTLY CO-ARISEN & RELATIVELY FUNCTIONAL APPEARANCES),
No self nature (2nd truth - EMPTINESS OF INHERENT EXISTENCE):
just ENERGY FLOW (UNION OF THOSE TWO ASPECTS / TRUTHS ABOUT THE THREE SPHERES)
(TRANSPARENT-LIKE: Union appearing & functional <==> empty).
No true nature: just like the sky.
All phenomena (THE THREE SPHERES) ARE LIKE THAT, sky-like.
.
That's Mahamudra, as we call it.
It doesn't have an identity to show;
For that reason, the nature of mind
Is itself the very state of Mahamudra (indescriptible / INCONCEIVABLE)
(Which is not made up, and does not change)
(SELF-ARISEN, UNCHANGING, PRISTINE GROUND).
If you realize this basic reality (the GROUND of both samsara & nirvana)
You recognize all that comes up, all that goes on, as Mahamudra,
The all-pervading dharma-body.
.
Rest in the true nature, free of fabrication.
(SPONTANEOUSLY / EFFORTLESSLY ABIDE IN THIS REALISATION)
Meditate without searching for dharma-body—
It is devoid of thought.
If your mind searches, your meditation will be confused.
.
Because it's like space, or like a magical show,
There is neither meditation or non-meditation,
How could you be separate or inseparable?
That's how a yogi sees it!
(THIS GROUND -- THE UNION OF THE TWO TRUTHS ABOUT THE THREE SPHERES -- IS BEYOND ALL DESCRIPTION / CONCEPTUALISATION, DISCRIMINATION / DUALITIES, CAUSALITY / PRODUCTION, FORM / MATTER-ENERGY, SPACE & TIME)
.
Then, aware of all good and bad stuff as the basic reality,
You become liberated.
Neurotic emotions are great awareness,
They're to a yogi as trees are to a fire—FUEL!
.
What are notions of going or staying?
Or, for that matter, "meditating" in solitude?
If you don't get this,
You free yourself only on the surface.
.
But if you do get it, what can ever fetter you?
Abide in an undistracted state.
Trying to adjust body and mind won't produce meditation.
Trying to apply techniques won't produce meditation either.
.
See, nothing is ultimately established.
Know what APPEARS (appearing -- 1st truth) to have no intrinsic nature (EMPTY -- 2nd truth).
APPEARANCES PERCEIVED: reality's realm, self-liberated.
Thought that perceives: spacious awareness, self-liberated.
Non-duality, sameness [of perceiver and perceived]: the dharma-body.
(UNION SUBJECT / PERCEIVER / KNOWER <==> RELATION / ACTION / PERCEPTION / COGNITION <==> OBJECT / PERCEIVED / KNOWN)
.
Like a wide stream flowing non-stop,
Whatever the phase, it has meaning
And is forever the awakened state—
Great BLISS without samsaric reference.
(Abiding in this Union of the Two Truths about the three spheres is BLISS)
.
All phenomena (OBJECTS) are empty of intrinsic nature (EMPTY)
And the mind (SUBJECT) that clings to emptiness dissolves in its own ground. (ALSO EMPTY)
Freedom from conceptual activity
(PATH: THE MIDDLE WAY FREE FROM ALL EXTREMES & MIDDLE)
Is the path of all the Buddhas.
.
I've put together these lines
That they may last for aeons to come.
By this virtue, may all beings without exception
Abide in the great state of Mahamudra.
.
– Maitripa
https://quotes.justdharma.com/essential-mahamudra-verses-maitripa/
------
(i.e. In more precise words:
๐ ๐ฎ๐ต๐ฎ๐บ๐๐ฑ๐ฟ๐ฎ ๐ถ๐ ๐๐ฝ๐ผ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ป๐ฒ๐ผ๐๐๐น๐ ๐ฒ๐ณ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐๐น๐ฒ๐๐๐น๐ ๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ถ๐ป ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ถ๐ป๐ฑ๐ฒ๐๐ฐ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ / ๐ถ๐ป๐ฐ๐ผ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ฟ๐๐ฒ ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐ผ๐ณ '๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐น๐ถ๐๐' as it is here & now.
And that '๐๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฑ' is the self-arising unchanging unstained fact that everything -- the three spheres of 1. subject / mind, 2. relation / action, and 3. object / phenomena -- is like a Union of being ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฝ๐๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ถ๐ป๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ฒ๐ ๐ถ๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ (2nd truth) <==> exactly because ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐น๐ ๐ฐ๐ผ-๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ป / co-dependent (1st truth). One aspect / truth implies the other (<==>).
Something could be co-dependent with its parts (when applicable), and/or its causes & conditions (when applicable), and its conceptual opposite(s) (always), and as object co-dependent with the subject / mind merely labelling / imputing / conceptualising it in dependence of its past / conditioning / karma (always).
Everything is conventionally dependently arisen & relatively functional impermanent appearances (1st truth), but still empty of inherent existence (2nd truth); empty of inherent existence (2nd truth), but still conventionally dependently arisen & relatively functional impermanent appearances (1st truth). One aspect / truth implies the other (<==>).
In other words: Mahamudra is directly perceiving / realising / abiding on the Ground as the inconceivable ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ง๐๐ผ ๐ง๐ฟ๐๐๐ต๐ ๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ผ๐๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ฝ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐. Abiding in this, being always fully aware of this, is LIBERATION, FREEDOM, BLISS, NIRVANA.
This 'Ground' is also called the ๐๐ฟ๐๐ฒ ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ ๐ถ๐ป๐ฑ: Union clarity / luminosity / awareness / functionality <==> and emptiness. It is also the Inseparability / Union of three kayas: Trikaya, or Buddhaverse, or Buddha-nature of everything, of Genuine Emptiness free from all extremes & middle.)
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Dream like bondage ~ Khenpo Tsultrim Rinpoche
“SELF-LIBERATION” is like being bound in iron chains in a dream. If you do not know you are dreaming, your bondage appears to be real, you think it is real, and your experience seems to confirm that it is real. But if you know you are dreaming, you know that the iron chains do not truly exist, and so you are not really bound by them. The bondage does not truly exist. In the dream, nothing needs to come along and set you free – you are free just as you are. The dream experience, even though it appears to be an experience of bondage, is in fact self-liberated.
-- Khenpo Tsultrim Rinpoche
https://quotes.justdharma.com/dream-like-bondage/
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The body, speech and mind of buddha ~ Longchenpa
Whatever exists is only its own nature;
and whatever ends is only its own nature:
there is no movement at all in pure mind
and that stillness is the BODY of buddha.
Every word that is uttered is only its own purity;
and every vibration is only its own purity:
nothing is spoken or uttered in pure mind,
which is the SPEECH of buddha.
Every thought and intention is entertained only as its own spaciousness,
and every intuition is realised only as its own spaciousness;
nothing at all is thought or intuited in pure mind,
the MIND of buddha past, present and future.
– Longchenpa
from the book "Natural Perfection: Longchenpa's Radical Dzogchen"
https://quotes.justdharma.com/the-body-speech-and-mind-of-buddha/
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๐๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป: With rigpa whatever arises, abides, and subsides -- body / physical, speech / conceptual, mind / mental fabrications /appearances -- is immediately realized to be spontaneous manifestation of Pure Being / Buddha-nature / Reality (i.e. already pure & perfect here & now; beyond all description / conceptualisation, discrimination / duality, causality / production, form / matter-energy, space & time) -- the inseparable pure body, speech and mind of a Buddha -- the inseparable three kayas. Appearing but empty, empty but appearing. (Union of the Two Truths; or the Ground: Union of essence, nature and compassionate energy / dynamism)
Context from the book mentioned in reference :
๐๐๐๐ฃ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐ฎ๐ฑ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐๐๐ผ-๐ฐ๐ผ๐บ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐๐ผ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐ง๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐๐๐ฟ๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ก๐ฎ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ณ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป:
[๐๐๐๐๐ : LIVING CONSTANTLY IN THE SPACIOUSNESS OF PURE BEING
[๐ฅ๐ข๐ข๐ง ๐ฉ๐๐ฅ๐ฆ๐:]
Essential absence has already released dualistic perception,
so delusion falls naturally into the matrix of sameness
we live without interruption in pure being.
Inception and release are simultaneous,
entwining in the single blissful matrix:
Whatever arises appears spontaneously as its pure nature,
as it abides it exists spontaneously as its pure nature,
when it vanishes it dissolves spontaneously as its pure nature.
Whatever arises in the reality-matrix, release is reflexive,
always a play of pure being, never shifting into anything other,
a timeless vision, another form of emptiness
we live in nondiscriminatory essential reality.
[๐ ๐ณ๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ ๐ฐ๐ผ๐บ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐ฒ๐น๐๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐บ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ผ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ฒ:]
External phenomena originate, abide, and cease in the matrix of rigpa, nothing stirring from that empty scope just as images reflected in a mirror can never slide off the face of the mirror or, more precisely, they do not even exist since they are the surface itself Internally, thought, in the same way, cannot stir from the scope of rigpa at its inception, during its existence, or at its release, just as ocean waves always remain within the ocean throughout their rising, billowing, and falling. Thus nothing can ever escape the natural disposition of pure being, the medium of brilliant emptiness that can never become reified, the matrix of the three dimensions of spontaneity.
[๐๐น๐น๐๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฏ๐ ๐พ๐๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐ ๐ณ๐ฟ๐ผ๐บ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ก๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐บ๐ฎ ๐๐ฎ๐ป๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐:]
Whatever exists is only its own nature;
and whatever ends is only its own nature:
there is no movement at all in pure mind
and that stillness is the BODY of buddha.
Every word that is uttered is only its own purity;
and every vibration is only its own purity:
nothing is spoken or uttered in pure mind,
which is the SPEECH of buddha.
Every thought and intention is entertained only as its own
spaciousness,
and every intuition is realized only as its own spaciousness:
nothing at all is thought or intuited in pure mind,
the MIND of buddha past, present, and future.
Absence as emanation is the dimension of magic (nirmanakaya),
its innate pleasure the dimension of perfect enjoyment (sambhogakaya),
and its utter insubstantiality the dimension of pure being (dharmakaya);
the totality is the matrix of these three dimensions (inseparability of the three kayas). 51
[๐ถ๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐ถ๐๐ต ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฐ๐ผ๐บ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐:]
Reality is the sameness of whatever arises, abides, and subsides. Or to say it another way, neither sense impressions nor thoughts - nothing whatsoever - stirs from the spaciousness of pure being as they entwine in the matrix of the three dimensions of spontaneous creativity (see cantos 7 and 10, and also 69 and 70). The matrix is always still and silent. The media of body, speech, and mind partake of that stasis. There is no movement in pure mind, no process, no development, no flow, no continuum, no transformation, no change of any kind. Each moment is complete and perfect in itself and always released at its inception. Reflexive release of thought and sense impression is maintained without any trace of duality by instantaneous potentiation of emotionally charged experience:
Note 51. The junction of the Three Dimensions of Intrinsic Awareness by Garab Dorje. NLD pp. 55-56. Compare the quote from the Sacred Vase of Intrinsic Awareness (Rig pa spyi blugs) in canto 10, which is the source of the three lines in the root verse on the arising, abiding, and release of phenomena. Quoted in part in canto 50.
(Note: "Appendix I: The Tibetan Text and Quotations" categorizes the source tantras according to these three series.)
51. Zad-pa phyal-ba'i don bstan pa (154-58a) All-Consuming Openness
NB: indices refer to page numbers in the NLD
NLD: Gnas lugs mdzod. Ed. Dodrub Chen: Gangtok, Sikkim, c. 1966 (Adzom Chogar edition).
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Anywhere, anytime ~ Mingyur Rinpoche
Because awareness is as present in our lives as the air we breathe, we can access it anywhere, anytime.
– Mingyur Rinpoche
from the book "In Love with the World: A Monk's Journey Through the Bardos of Living and Dying"
https://quotes.justdharma.com/anywhere-anytime-mingyur-rinpoche/
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Look into the awakened mind of your own awareness!
It has neither form nor color, neither center nor edge. At first, it has no origin but is empty. Next, it has no dwelling place but is empty. At the end, it has no destination but is empty. This emptiness is not made of anything and is clear and cognizant. When you see this and recognize it, you know your natural face. You understand the nature of things. You have then seen the nature of mind, resolved the basic state of reality and cut through doubts about topics of knowledge.
This awakened mind of awareness is not made out of any material substance; it is self-existing and inherent in yourself. This is the nature of things that is easy to realize because it is not to be sought for elsewhere. This is the nature of mind that does not consist of a concrete perceiver and something perceived to fixate on. It defies the limitations of permanence and annihilation. In it there is no thing to awaken; the awakened state of enlightenment is your own awareness that is naturally awake. In it there is no thing that goes to the hells; awareness is naturally pure. In it there is no practice to carry out; its nature is naturally cognizant. This great view of the natural state is present in yourself: resolve that it is not to be sought for elsewhere.
~ Guru Rinpoche
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Things That Tend to Be Misleading ~ Khenpo Tsultrim Rinpoche
If you understand that all the misleading appearances of worldly existence are not intrinsically real,
they will not tend to mislead you.
If you have attachment to friends and enemies as being real, they will mislead you.
But if you have equanimity towards both, they will not mislead or deceive you.
If you see a lot of change or transition, that will tend to mislead you.
But if you understand the intrinsic nature beyond change, it will not be misleading.
If you cling to the reality of birth and death, there is much deception.
But if you realize there is no birth and death, there’s no deception.
If you believe in the existence of suffering, there’s much deception.
But if you realize there’s no suffering, there’s no deception.
If you believe that self and other are separate, there’s much deception.
But if you recognize that they are not two separate things, there’s no deception.
If you understand this true nature of deception,
discursive thoughts will be liberated in their own place.
Khenpo Tsultrim Rinpoche
https://quotes.justdharma.com/things-that-tend-to-be-misleading/
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Possessing the view of realization ~ Padmasambhava
“Mind” is discovered to be without something outside or inside.
It does not have someone (SUBJECT) that looks;
it is not the act of looking (RELATION / ACTION).
It is experienced as a great original wakefulness without center or edge,
an immense all-pervasiveness that is primordially empty and free.
This original wakefulness is intrinsic and self-existing.
It is not made right now, but is present within yourself from the very beginning.
Decide firmly that the view is to recognize just that!
To “possess confidence” in this means to realize that like space,
mind is spontaneously present from the beginning.
Like the sun, it is free from any basis for the darkness of ignorance.
Like a lotus flower, it is untainted by faults.
Like gold, it doesn’t alter its own nature.
Like the ocean, it is unmoving.
Like a river, it is unceasing.
Like Mount Sumeru, it is utterly unchanging.
Once you realize that this is how it is [and stabilize it],
that is called “possessing the view of realization.”
– Padmasambhava
from the book "Advice from the Lotus-Born"
https://quotes.justdharma.com/possessing-the-view-of-realization-padmasambhava/
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The Peaceful and Calming Victory Flag ~ 17th Karmapa
A garland of dawn's glowing moonlight this wisdom, profound and clear, sheds luminous joy.
Virtuous signs of radiant clarity, a cluster of lively moons turns in the gracious dance of emptiness, free of fabrication, and luminosity, cool and fresh;
A broad and calming shade of benefit and happiness permeates the whole universe.
The sweet melody of auspicious virtue and excellence for all beings resonates as the glorious ornament of the three realms.
The two rising curves of pure gold are great joy's loving, radiant smile;
The vibrant blue reflects the ultimate, dharmakaya lit by a vigorous and youthful sun; sphere of light, this hand draws
And plays, gathering into the glide of an image the unity of the profound and vast, the peaceful and soothing.
Throughout existence, may the victory banner of the Buddha's teachings resound its famous and melodious song.
– 17th Karmapa
from the book "Music In The Sky: The Life, Art, And Teachings Of The 17Th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje"
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