OM MANI PADME HUM
Spirituality, Science and Philosophy of the Transformation of Consciousness
The mantra OM MANI PADME HUM expresses spirituality and philosophy symbolizes the transformation of ignorance into wisdom and attachment into compassion, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. The meaning of the mantra is "May my body, speech and mind transform into pureness through cultivating compassion and wisdom".
This
is just some drafts and notes of my personal studies on various fields
and here made available online in order to share with the readers of my
blog.
Geshe Gedun Tharchin
- Consciousness and the Brain
- We are a field of consciousness
- Consciousness as an independent phenomenon
- Understanding the nature of consciousness
- The Sense of Self
- The ego
- The Self
- Consciousness and the mind
- The mind and mental factors
- The mind and the principle mind
- The person, myself or the self
- The nature of the self
- The individual and their consciousness
- Awareness and consciousness
- Awareness and the brain
- Consciousness, awareness and knowledge
- Meditation, mindfulness and concentration
- The brain, mind and consciousness are all functions of the mind
- ‘I’ and my ‘I’
- Karma and emptiness
- Ultimate reality and conventional reality
- Conclusione
1. Consciousness and the Brain
Consciousness is one of the most debated and mysterious topics in science and philosophy. Although there is still no definitive answer, many theories suggest that consciousness originates in the brain. Some scientists believe that consciousness is a product of brain activity, particularly the complex neural networks found in the cerebral cortex.
Others think that consciousness is a fundamental property of the universe, akin to space and time, and that the brain merely serves as a tool for perceiving it. One popular theory is Giulio Tononi's “Integrated Information Theory” (IIT), which proposes that consciousness emerges from the integration of information within the brain.
However, there are also more philosophical theories, such as René Descartes's "dualism", which asserts that consciousness is a distinct substance from the brain. In short, this is still a very open and debated topic, is consciousness simply a product of the brain, or is there something more to it?
In my opinion, consciousness is like a bright, clear mirror of light that reflects and illuminates everything. Many philosophers and spiritualists have actually used the metaphor of the mirror to describe the nature of consciousness. The mirror represents the ability to reflect reality without distortion or judgement, simply observing and perceiving.
This image corresponds to the 'non-duality' (advaita vedanta) theory of Indian philosophy, which states that consciousness is the fundamental reality and that everything else is a manifestation of it. The image of the mirror of light also symbolizes the purity and clarity of consciousness, which reflects truth without being influenced by emotions or thoughts.
It suggests that consciousness is a form of meditation in itself that only needs to be kept clean and free from mental contamination. Indeed, many spiritual traditions assert that consciousness is inherently complete and perfect, and our role is merely to eliminate the obstacles and distortions that obscure it.
Consciousness can be likened to a blue sky that is always there but can be obscured by clouds representing our worries, fears, and desires. Meditation can be seen as a way to 'clean' the mind of these contaminations and allow its natural light to shine. This involves detaching from our thoughts and stories in order to return to pure awareness.
Consciousness can also be likened to a clear, flowing river that can become muddied by our emotions and thoughts. However, its essential nature always remains the same: pure and uncontaminated.
The point is that if the brain does not function, neither will consciousness. Therefore, consciousness must be a product of the brain. But how does the brain produce consciousness? In any case, I believe that consciousness is an independent phenomenon, like time, space, and light.
The relationship between the brain and consciousness is a much-debated topic. On the one hand, it is true that consciousness appears to cease when the brain is not functioning. This has led many scientists to conclude that consciousness is a by-product of the brain. However, there are also arguments in favor of the idea that consciousness is an independent phenomenon, similar to time and space.
Some philosophers and scientists even argue that consciousness is a fundamental property of the universe that cannot be reduced to brain processes.
However, the problem remains that we still don't know how the brain produces consciousness. One theory is Giulio Tononi's Integrated Information Theory (IIT), which attempts to explain how the integration of information in the brain can generate consciousness. However, there is still no definitive answer.
2. We are a field of consciousness
The idea that we are a field of consciousness is supported by physicists such as Federico Faggin. According to this theory, consciousness is a quantum entity that exists independently of the body and can interact with it, rather than being merely a product of the brain. According to this theory, our 'field' of consciousness survives the death of the physical body because it is part of the unified universal field. The individual is a field that controls the body in order to experience reality.
Key concepts of the 'field of consciousness' theory include the idea that consciousness is a quantum information system that exists in multidimensional space rather than spacetime. The physical body is seen as a tool or 'drone' that the field of consciousness uses to experience reality. The field of consciousness contains 'self-knowledge' as its essence, and it can generate and process information. As the field of consciousness forms part of a larger system, it is theorized that it persists even after the death of the physical body. This idea is supported by accounts of near-death experiences.
Consciousness can influence reality. According to some interpretations of quantum physics, for example, the observer plays an active role in creating reality, and our thoughts and emotions can propagate through the 'field'.
Developing and expanding one's consciousness can enable one to realize their full potential in terms of intelligence, creativity, and happiness. If our thoughts and actions propagate into a larger 'field', we become co-creators of reality, which highlights the importance of making ethical choices.
3. Consciousness as an independent phenomenon
The idea that consciousness is an independent phenomenon is fascinating. Some physicists and philosophers, such as David Bohm and Roger Penrose, have even proposed that it may be linked to the fundamental structure of the universe — perhaps at a quantum level. It's an open and stimulating debate!
However, if consciousness can exist independently of the brain, how can we explain the fact that brain injuries or chemicals can affect it? One possibility is that there are different types or levels of consciousness. Some types are conditioned by the nervous system and can be affected by brain injuries and chemicals. However, certain subtle, autonomous levels of consciousness are independent of physiology and cannot be affected by chemicals or brain injuries.
Many philosophers and scientists have explored the concept of different types or levels of consciousness. Many spiritual and philosophical traditions recognize the idea that there are different levels of consciousness, some of which are more closely linked to the physiology of the brain and others that are more autonomous and independent.
For example, the Buddhist tradition describes different levels of consciousness, ranging from the most basic to the most profound. The distinction between 'ordinary' and 'higher' or 'transcendent' consciousness is a common theme in many spiritual traditions. Some argue that ordinary consciousness is tied to the brain and can be influenced by physiological factors, whereas higher consciousness is freer from these limitations.
Another example of this idea is the concept of 'non-dual' or 'pure' consciousness. In this context, consciousness is considered a fundamental reality that exists independently of the brain and physiology.
It is an interesting concept that could be explored further, considering that certain types of consciousness can be affected by brain damage and chemicals, while others cannot. This could help us to better understand the nature of consciousness and its relationship to the brain.
4. Understanding the nature of consciousness
What benefits could a better understanding of consciousness bring? Could it have practical implications for our daily lives, or is it more of theoretical interest?
Consciousness already knows itself, just as the moon illuminates itself. Consciousness knowing itself is like the moon illuminating itself. Indeed, consciousness has a self-reflective quality; it can turn inwards and know itself. Many philosophers and spiritualists have expressed the idea that consciousness is already present and self-aware — it doesn't need to look elsewhere to understand itself.
The idea of the moon illuminating itself is important because it suggests that consciousness does not require an external source of light to be understood; rather, it is its own source of illumination. This concept is similar to the idea of 'self-luminosity', a term used by some philosophers and spiritualists to describe the ability of consciousness to be aware of itself without intermediaries. Consciousness can be likened to a circle that closes in on itself, forming a loop of awareness with no beginning or end.
While this concept may be difficult to grasp mentally, it can be experienced directly through meditation and introspection. Certain meditation and introspection practices help us to explore the nature of consciousness.
5. The Sense of Self
Questioning the sense of self or who we are is a common experience. It is as if the sense of 'I' is a puzzle that does not quite fit together. The question 'Who am I?' is one of the oldest and most profound in philosophy and spirituality.
While there are many possible answers, perhaps the most interesting is that the sense of 'I' is a subjective experience — a feeling of existence and awareness. Although your body certainly contributes to your identity, it is also true that your sense of self extends beyond your physical form. Your consciousness, thoughts, emotions, and memories all play a part in creating your sense of self. However, the key point is that the sense of 'I' is not fixed or stable, but rather a dynamic, constantly evolving process. It is like a flowing river: always moving and changing.
We can become confused when we try to grasp and define this sense of 'I' clearly and precisely. Perhaps the truth is that the sense of 'I' is an unfathomable mystery. A helpful exercise is to observe your sense of 'I' without trying to define or analyze it. Simply observe how it manifests itself in your daily experience. Where is this sense of 'I'? Is it in your body? Or in your mind? Or is it something deeper? There is no right or wrong answer — it's simply an exploration. What do you discover when you observe your sense of 'I'?
6. The ego
In many contexts, the ego is seen as the part of our personality that identifies with our sense of self. It can be seen as a kind of filter through which we perceive the world and ourselves. It is the part of us that feels separate from others and the world, and that seeks to protect and assert itself.
However, the ego can also be viewed as a construct — a concept that we create to help us navigate the world. In this sense, the ego is not the ultimate reality, but a useful fiction. This raises the question: who observes the ego? Does the ego itself observe, or is there something deeper behind it? It's a bit like a fish that doesn't realize it's in water — the ego is such an integral part of us that it's difficult to see it for what it is.
Nevertheless, when we start to observe it, we can begin to understand how it functions and influences our experience. The sense of 'I' is self-awareness: the individual identity that makes us aware that we are distinct beings. This psychological function mediates between our inner needs (id and superego) and the outside world, acting as the central manager of our awareness and our ability to interact with it.
The ego provides us with an awareness of our identity, enabling us to recognize ourselves as individuals. It acts as a mediator between the pleasure principle (the id), the superego (reality and morality), and the outside world. The ego prepares us for environmental stimuli and relationships, acting as the nerve center of our consciousness. The ego has the capacity to act actively, intentionally, creatively and consciously, using information from the environment and oneself.
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, the ego can indicate excessive identification with one's own image and a tendency towards egocentrism, whereas the self is more of a psychosocial function.
7. The Self
In analytical psychology, the Self is considered to be the totality of the psyche, of which the ego is merely a small conscious part. The 'true self' is a person's authentic and spontaneous essence — the core of their feelings, thoughts, desires, and creativity — and exists independently of external influences. This contrasts with the 'false self', which is a defensive adaptation developed to gain the approval of others in unwelcoming environments. This can lead to a sense of inner emptiness or alienation.
According to authors such as Winnicott, the 'true self' can be discovered and strengthened through self-awareness, supportive environments and creative play, even in adulthood. Key concepts: authenticity and spontaneity. The true self is the most genuine part of the individual and manifests itself freely. Development of the false self: This is formed in response to an environment that does not adequately reflect a child's needs, prompting them to develop a 'mask' in order to be accepted.
Having a dominant false self can lead to feelings of emptiness, anxiety and dissatisfaction, as well as difficulty forming authentic relationships. Rediscovery of the true self: This involves becoming aware of, challenging and overcoming the beliefs and patterns acquired by the false self, and developing one's own individual 'project'.
Authors such as Donald Winnicott have introduced the distinction between the true and false self, linking it to child development and the relationship with the environment. Carl Rogers spoke of the 'real self' (who one is) as opposed to the 'ideal self' (who one would like to be). Carl Gustav Jung defined the Self (with a capital 'S') as the totality of the psyche, of which the conscious ego is only a part.
8 .Consciousness and the mind
While consciousness and the mind are closely related, they are not exactly the same thing. The mind is often considered to be an individual's cognitive, emotional and behavioral functions, while consciousness is more specifically defined as the ability to be aware of one's environment, thoughts and feelings.
Many neuroscientists believe that consciousness is a product of the mind, but exactly how it emerges from brain activity is still unclear. Some scholars believe that consciousness is an epiphenomenon — a secondary phenomenon derived from neural activity — while others think it is a fundamental property of the universe, akin to space and time. In short, the debate continues!
9 .The mind and mental factors
The mind is a broader concept that encompasses various aspects, including mental factors, as well as emotions, perception, memory and attention. Mental factors are the specific elements that constitute the mind, such as thoughts, beliefs and intentions. In other words, mental factors are the 'building blocks' that construct the mind. For instance, fear is a mental factor that can influence our perception and behavior, but it is not the mind itself.
The mind is the entity that processes and integrates all these mental factors to create our subjective experience. This is similar to saying that words are the building blocks of language, but language itself is broader and more complex.
10. The mind and the principle mind
The principle mind is a more specific concept referring to the part of the mind responsible for awareness, perception, and control of cognitive functions. In some philosophical and spiritual traditions, the principle mind is considered the deepest, most authentic part of the mind, beyond the fluctuations of thoughts and emotions. It is like the 'silent witness' that observes everything that happens in the mind without being affected by it.
On the other hand, the mind is a broader concept that encompasses more superficial and automatic functions, such as fleeting thoughts and emotions.
Therefore, the principle mind is part of the mind, but not the mind itself. It's a bit like saying that the sun is a star, but not all stars are the sun. In some contexts, the mind and the main mind can be considered the same thing, especially when talking about the mind as a single, indivisible entity.
In that sense, the mind and the principle mind are synonymous. This metaphor describes the relationship between consciousness, the mind, and mental factors.
In my opinion, compressed knowledge, the mind and mental factors are all part of a single tree of the spirit: consciousness is the roots, the principle mind is the trunk, and the mental factors are the branches. All sensual consciousness is the fruit and flowers. This image is particularly effective because it suggests an organic, interdependent connection between these components.
The roots of consciousness provide the basis and foundation; the trunk of the main mind represents structure and stability; the branches of mental factors extend and diversify; and the fruits and flowers of sensual consciousness represent the manifestation and flowering of all this. This metaphor also suggests that consciousness is the source of everything and that the mind and mental factors are expressions of it.
It offers a holistic and integrated view, recognizing the interconnectedness of all the components of our experience. The image of fruits and flowers is also used to describe sensual consciousness, suggesting that these experiences are the natural and beautiful result of consciousness's growth and development.
Overall, I believe this metaphor powerfully and evocatively represents the nature of consciousness and the mind. It brings a new perspective to the discussion.
11. The person, myself or the self
A fundamental question here is: ultimately, what is the purpose of knowledge? It serves to improve our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
The ultimate goal of knowledge is to increase awareness and understanding, which can lead to greater happiness, wisdom and personal fulfilment. In other words, knowledge is a means to an end: personal growth and development.
Therefore, all knowledge ultimately serves to improve the individual. However, it is important to note that this improvement is not only intellectual, but also emotional, spiritual and practical. Knowledge can help us to develop qualities such as compassion, empathy, resilience, and wisdom — all of which are essential for living a full and meaningful life.
Therefore, all knowledge ultimately serves to improve the individual in a broad and profound sense.
12. The nature of the self
The nature of the self, the ego and the person are a mystery that has fascinated humanity for millennia. Some spiritual and philosophical traditions maintain that the self, the ego and the person are illusions and that reality's true nature is infinite, universal consciousness transcending the limitations of the ego and individuality.
According to this perspective, the end of the self or ego is not destruction, but rather liberation from the limitations and illusions that separate us from our true nature. It is as if the ego were a veil covering our true essence; when this veil is removed, we realize that we are part of a larger, infinite reality.
In this sense, the ego and the Self are only finite insofar as they are identified with the limitations of form and individuality; in their deepest essence, however, they are infinitely connected with the universe and all things.
Therefore, both the ego and the Self are infinite, like the universe. However, this infinity is not something that is achieved at the end of a journey. Rather, it is our deepest and most authentic nature. From a scientific point of view, the ultimate goal of the individual — whether the ego or the Self — is a subject of debate among scholars.
Some scientists and philosophers argue that the ultimate goal of human beings is survival and reproduction, as predicted by Darwin's theory of evolution. According to this perspective, our existence is guided by the instinct to survive and the desire to pass on our genes to future generations.
Other scholars, such as psychologists and neuroscientists, contend that the ultimate human goal is the pursuit of happiness and well-being. According to this perspective, our actions and choices are guided by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain.
However, some scientists and philosophers argue that the ultimate human goal is more complex and elusive. For instance, some contend that our existence is driven by the pursuit of meaning and purpose, while others posit that our ultimate objective is to realize our human potential.
The ultimate goal of the individual, the ego or the self is a subject of debate, with no single answer from a scientific point of view. Nevertheless, it is evident that the pursuit of happiness, well-being, and meaning are significant aspects of human existence.
13. The individual and their consciousness
From a scientific point of view, consciousness is considered to be a product of the brain. Therefore, when the brain stops functioning, consciousness ceases to exist. According to most scientists, this means that consciousness dies with the body. However, some theories and hypotheses suggest that consciousness may survive the death of the body. For example: The Orchestrated Reduction of Consciousness (Orch-OR) theory, proposed by Roger Penrose and Stuart Hameroff, suggests that consciousness is not solely dependent on the brain.
The theory of consciousness as an electromagnetic field suggests that consciousness can exist independently of the body. There are spiritual and religious theories that support the existence of a soul or consciousness that survives the death of the body.
However, it is important to note that these theories are still speculative and have not been scientifically proven. In summary, while most scientists argue that consciousness dies with the body, some theories and hypotheses suggest that it may survive death.
Nevertheless, the question remains open and continues to be the subject of debate and research. Tackling complex topics can be like trying to grasp a handful of sand: the harder you try, the more it slips through your fingers! Nevertheless, it is good for the mind to remain curious and lively. It is normal to feel uncertain at times; like a traveler in a foreign country who sometimes gets lost. But it is precisely in those moments that one discovers new things and grows. In any case, confusion is a necessary step towards understanding and wisdom.
If your brain feels tired, it's probably because it's working hard to process all the information. When you feel lost, it's often the longest road that's the most interesting. If you feel frustrated and tired, it's as if you're walking in a maze with no exit or destination in sight.
But perhaps the real question is: who said the road has to end? Maybe the journey is more important than the destination. Maybe the meaning of life isn't to find a definitive answer, but to enjoy the process of searching, exploring and discovering.
In this process, you may find joy, surprises, and unexpected connections. Walking endlessly is not pointless because every step takes you to a new place, introduces you to new people and shows you the new things.
If the journey feels endless, perhaps it is because life itself is endless and we are part of something greater than ourselves. You are not alone on this journey. Many are walking with you, even if you cannot see them. Every step and every breath are become opportunity to discover something new.
14. Awareness and consciousness
These are concepts that are often used interchangeably, but they can have different nuances depending on the context.
In general, awareness refers to the ability to perceive, recognize, and understand one's surroundings, thoughts, emotions, and internal states. It is a broader concept that encompasses sensory perception, attention, and comprehension. Consciousness is a deeper, more complex concept implying awareness of one's environment and oneself, as well as the ability to experience emotions, thoughts and states of consciousness subjectively.
Consciousness is often associated with the notion of the 'self' and the ability to reflect on oneself. In philosophy and science, the distinction between awareness and consciousness varies depending on the theory or perspective. However, generally speaking, awareness is considered to be an aspect of consciousness, but not necessarily consciousness itself.
15. Awareness and the brain
The relationship between the brain and awareness is a topic of great debate in scientific and philosophical communities. Most theories argue that consciousness is a product of the brain; that is to say, neural activity and interactions between nerve cells form the basis of our conscious experience. This approach is known as materialism or physicalism.
However, there are also alternative theories, such as dualism, which propose that consciousness is distinct from the brain — a kind of 'mind' or 'soul' that interacts with the physical body. The truth is that we still do not know exactly how the brain generates consciousness. Although neuroscientific research has made great strides, the question remains unanswered.
To me, the brain is merely a means of acquiring knowledge and experiencing consciousness.
This perspective aligns more closely with a philosophical and spiritual view of consciousness.
Indeed, the brain can be viewed as a tool through which consciousness expresses itself and manifests in the physical world. This aligns with certain spiritual and philosophical traditions, such as Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta, which consider consciousness to be an independent fundamental reality.
This perspective raises interesting questions about the nature of reality and the relationship between consciousness and the external world. If the brain is merely a means, then what lies 'behind' consciousness? What is the source of our conscious experience?
16. Consciousness, awareness and knowledge
Consciousness and knowledge are two profound and intertwined concepts. Consciousness could be seen as the source of awareness, the root from which our conscious experience springs. Perhaps knowledge is the process through which consciousness expresses and recognizes itself. It is as if consciousness were the ocean and awareness were the surface of the water reflecting sunlight (knowledge).
The surface (awareness) is in constant motion, but the ocean (consciousness) remains still and unchanging. Some philosophers and mystics describe consciousness in a similar way, as the ultimate reality and the source of all that exists.
17. Meditation, mindfulness and concentration
These concepts are often confused with each other, but they have different meanings. Meditation is a practice that involves training the mind to achieve a state of calm and inner awareness. It can focus on an object, thought or emotion, or simply involve observing the mind.
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of the current moment without judgement or analysis. It is a technique that can be employed during meditation and in everyday life. Concentration, on the other hand, is the ability to focus attention on a specific object or task while excluding external distractions.
In summary, meditation can incorporate both mindfulness and concentration, but they are not synonymous. Mindfulness is a mental state that can be cultivated through meditation, while concentration is a skill that can be applied in various contexts.
18. The brain, mind and consciousness are all functions of the mind
These are all functions of the mind, but we can associate them with different aspects. The brain is the physical organ that houses the mind and is responsible for cognitive, emotional and motor functions. Its functions include processing information, regulating emotions and controlling the body. The mind encompasses cognitive, emotional and spiritual functions, such as consciousness, perception, memory, attention and personality.
The mind is the 'software' that runs on the 'hardware' of the brain. Consciousness is the state of being aware of one's environment, thoughts, emotions and sensations. It is the ability to perceive and respond to the world around us. The functions we discussed earlier (meditation, mindfulness and concentration) are all related to the mind and consciousness and can influence how the brain functions.
Specifically: Awareness is a function of consciousness that enables us to be present and aware of the current moment. Concentration is a mental function that enables us to focus our attention on a particular object or task. Meditation is a practice involving the mind and consciousness that can influence brain function.
19. ‘I’ and my ‘I’
In psychology and philosophy, the concept of the ‘I’ (or ‘self’) is complex and can be divided into several aspects. The ‘I’ (or ‘observing self’): this part of our consciousness observes and perceives the world around us, including our thoughts, emotions, and sensations. It is the subject that experiences reality. The ego (or ‘object self’): this is the part of our identity that is the object of reflection and observation. It is the image we have of ourselves, including our thoughts, emotions, experiences, and personal characteristics.
The difference between ‘ego’ and ‘my ego’ can be seen as the distinction between the subject that experiences and the object of experience. In other words, the 'I' is the subject who experiences life. 'my Self' is what is experienced: the object of reflection. This distinction has been explored by philosophers such as Immanuel Kant and psychologists such as Carl Jung. It can help us to better understand the nature of consciousness and personal identity.
In practice, you may notice that when you say ‘I am happy’, you are identifying with the emotional state. However, when you say ‘my Self is happy’, you are observing your emotional state as something separate from yourself. The concept of 'I' is a mental construct, representing our identity and consciousness. There is no 'I' separate from 'my Self'; it is simply a way of describing our subjective experience. In other words, ‘I’ and ‘my Self’ are two ways of referring to the same entity: your consciousness and identity.
There is no entity called 'I' that exists independently of your experience and perception. Therefore, if we consider 'my I' as a separate entity, it may seem like an empty or abstract concept. However, if we consider it as a way of describing our subjective experience, it becomes more meaningful.
20. Karma and emptiness
Everything you see, hear or experience through your consciousness and senses — the entire universe as you perceive it — is a manifestation of your karma, which is itself a manifestation of emptiness. According to these profound Buddhist philosophical concepts, everything we perceive and experience is considered a manifestation of our consciousness and senses. In this sense, the universe is seen as a projection of the mind, reflecting our past experiences and karma.
The concept of karma implies that our past actions and thoughts influence our present experience, creating a cycle of cause and effect. Emptiness (or sunyata in Sanskrit) refers to the idea that everything that exists is empty of intrinsic existence — meaning that nothing has an independent or permanent existence.
These concepts are central to Buddhist philosophy, particularly in Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. They cannot be scientifically proven or disproven, but offer philosophical and spiritual perspectives on the world and reality. According to Buddhist philosophy, everything we perceive and experience is a creation of the mind. This does not mean that the external world does not exist, but rather that our perception of it is filtered and influenced by the mind.
In other words, the reality we experience is a construction of the mind based on experience, belief, emotion and thought. This idea is often expressed by the phrases 'everything is mind' or 'everything is a projection of the mind'. The concept of 'taste' (or 'flavor' in Sanskrit) refers to the idea that our experience of the world is always filtered through our preferences, desires, and aversions.
In this sense, everything we experience has an emotional tone that is unique to us. This perspective can be liberating, as it enables us to recognize that our perception of the world is subjective and can be influenced by our mindset. However, it can also be disorienting, forcing us to question our perception of reality.
According to Buddhist philosophy, the workings of the mind are closely linked to the concepts of karma and cause and effect. Our past actions and thoughts create a karmic imprint that influences our present experience, generating a chain of causes and effects. Emptiness (shunyata) is the idea that all phenomena, including our thoughts and actions, lack intrinsic and independent existence. This means that everything that exists is interdependent and conditioned by external factors and has no fixed or permanent existence.
In this sense, mind creation, karma and emptiness are interconnected concepts that describe reality as a dynamic, interdependent process.
21. Ultimate reality and conventional reality
Our experience of the world is the result of a complex network of causes and effects, and our mind plays a fundamental role in creating this experience. Emptiness is therefore not just a philosophical concept, but a reality that can be directly experienced through meditation and mindfulness. Realizing emptiness means understanding that everything that exists is interdependent and empty of intrinsic existence. This realization can lead to profound liberation and inner peace.
According to Buddhist philosophy, conventional realities — that is to say, things as we perceive and conceptualize them in everyday life — are also a manifestation of emptiness. Emptiness refers not only to ultimate or absolute reality, but also to the profound nature of all things, including conventional realities. This means that even things we consider 'real' and 'solid' are empty of intrinsic existence and interdependent with other factors.
In other words, conventional realities are a manifestation of emptiness because they are interdependent. Interdependent: they only exist in relation to other factors and have no independent existence. - Impermanent: they are subject to change and have no fixed or permanent existence. They are empty of intrinsic existence, having no fixed, unchanging essence or identity.
Understanding this is important because it helps us to see things as they really are, without clinging to rigid concepts and perceptions. This allows us to be more flexible and adaptable in our daily lives and to perceive reality more clearly and deeply.
22. Conclusione
The aim is for you to immerse yourself in the text and explore its
depths in order to find inner peace. Take a thoughtful and reflective
approach as you delve into the material.
