The Sutra
"In truth, forms are inseparate. Inseparate are omnipresent being and your own form. Realize each as made of this consciousness."
Paul Reps translation, Zen Flesh, Zen Bones (1957)
Understanding
All forms appear separate but in truth they are inseparate - not divided from each other or from the omnipresent being. Your own form is not separate from the totality. The tree, the mountain, the other person, the distant star - all are inseparate from you and from each other. Realize that each form, including yours, is made of the same consciousness. When this is seen directly, the universe reveals itself as one seamless consciousness expressing as infinite forms.
Original Sanskrit
जग्धिपानकृतोल्लासरसानन्दविजृम्भणात् ।
jagdhipaanakritollaasarasaanandavijrimbhanaat |
Vijnanabhairava Verse 128 (Technique 105 of 112)
How to Practice
Look at any object or person near you. Notice how it appears separate from you - divided by space.
Now feel into the truth: this apparent separation is only visual. In reality, the same consciousness fills both you and that form.
Extend this recognition: look at multiple forms. Each one appears separate, but all are made of one consciousness.
Feel your own body. It too is a form made of consciousness - inseparate from the omnipresent being that is everywhere.
Let the boundaries between forms soften in your perception. Not that forms disappear, but that their inseparability becomes clear.
Rest in this vision: one consciousness, infinite forms, no real separation. Each form is consciousness knowing itself as that particular shape.
Duration
Continuous throughout the day
Best Time
Every moment of perception
Related Techniques
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