The Sutra
"Each particular perception is limited, disappearing. Omniscience."
Paul Reps translation, Zen Flesh, Zen Bones (1957)
Understanding
Every perception comes and goes. You see a flower - that perception arises and passes. You hear a sound - it comes and goes. Every single particular perception is limited and disappearing. But something KNOWS this disappearing. Something is aware of the coming and going. That something is omniscience - unlimited awareness that witnesses all limited perceptions. Perceive the perceiver, and you find omniscience.
Original Sanskrit
भ्रान्त्वा भ्रान्त्वा शरीरेण त्वरितं भूपतनं ततः ।
bhraantvaa bhraantvaa shareerina tvaritam bhoopatnam tatah |
Vijnanabhairava Verse 110 (Technique 87 of 112)
How to Practice
Sit quietly and notice perceptions arising and passing - sounds, physical sensations, thoughts, visual impressions.
Recognize: each one is limited. It comes, stays briefly, then disappears.
Do not hold onto any perception. Let each one come and go freely.
After watching many perceptions arise and disappear, ask: what is the one thing that does NOT disappear?
The awareness that watches all perceptions come and go - it is always present. It is not limited.
Rest as this unlimited awareness - the omniscience that witnesses all limited perceptions without being limited itself.
Duration
20-30 minutes
Best Time
Any quiet time for contemplation
Related Techniques
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