The silent mind, the enlightened mind
The silent mind is the initial stage of meditation, wherein the practitioner listens to the sound of the silence within. Meditation
can be defined as the act of observing one's own consciousness from the
perspective of that consciousness. This observation is simultaneously a
form of self-monitoring and a process of being watched by the very
consciousness that is observing.
A silent mind is one that is both conscious and aware. The silence of the mind is experienced as a state of bliss. Subsequently, the fundamental essence of the self is transformed into a state of peace and love.
A silent mind is one that is both conscious and aware. The silence of the mind is experienced as a state of bliss. Subsequently, the fundamental essence of the self is transformed into a state of peace and love.
A silent mind is not the absence of thoughts; rather, it is a state of being above or beyond thoughts, analogous to the vast expanse of the sky containing clouds on all sides. A silent mind is not unduly affected by thoughts, but is able to experience a state of harmony with them.
It is of the utmost importance to undertake a rigorous process of mental discipline in order to maintain a state of profound peace and to focus on the most appropriate goals. In order to achieve this, it is essential to gain an understanding of the true nature of life and the reality of impermanence. It is crucial to cultivate the ability to maintain an undistracted, positive, and focused state of mind. This can be achieved through the practice of meditation, the cultivation of devotional faith, and the adoption of a simple, undistracted lifestyle. Additionally, the acquisition of insight and wisdom is a crucial element in attaining this state of being.
The primary objective is to gain control over emotions and feelings, with the ultimate objective being to live a life that is completely beyond the constraints of the ego. This objective can be attained through the cultivation of concentration, which can be transformed into a more profound and subtle conscious state of unity with wisdom and compassion.
In order to cultivate an authentic and deep level of silent concentration, it is essential to engage in a constant practice of mental awareness, mindfulness and concentration. In order to practise this, one must maintain unwavering mental alertness through insight and the constant flow of mindfulness.
During the contemplative phase, the perception of the essence of the mind is achieved when the mind is in a state of relaxation and calm, without the interference of conceptual thoughts. In this state, the mind and the concept of emptiness become one, transcending the dualistic approach. This can be compared to the way in which the rays of the sun illuminate a transparent space without any hindrance, the rays of the sun and space become one, and this helps to bring about a great deal of peace and joy to many beings.
Ultimately, in order to sustain a state of silent mental awareness, as previously stated, it is essential to direct one's attention towards the mental phenomenon of the mind itself, which can be characterised as a state of silence.
The practice of meditation is an inherent quality of the human mind. The mind can be conceptualised as a flame that illuminates one's path in life. However, if not cultivated and cared for, it can potentially result in adverse outcomes.
Therefore
the Enlightenment is not something to achieve at the end rather it is
to discover something that is present within us from the beginning!
The
concept of the "silent mind" has been a subject of philosophical debate
for centuries. It can be defined as an enlightened mind, one that is
free from the constraints of language and the limitations of
conventional wisdom.
Geshe Gedun Tharchin
Rome: 22.11.2024
