The Sutra
"This consciousness exists as each being, and nothing else exists."
Paul Reps translation, Zen Flesh, Zen Bones (1957)
Understanding
The most direct statement in the Vigyan Bhairav Tantra: this consciousness IS each being. Not "consciousness lives in each being" or "each being has consciousness" - consciousness IS each being. And nothing else exists. There is only consciousness appearing as the multiplicity of beings. The tree is consciousness being a tree. The bird is consciousness being a bird. You are consciousness being you. Nothing else exists.
Original Sanskrit
प्रतिमानुस्मरे वा एवमभिज्ञातवान् भवेत् ॥
pratimaanusmara vaa evamabhijnaatavaan bhavet ||
Vijnanabhairava Verse 106 (Technique 83 of 112)
How to Practice
Look around at the beings near you - people, animals, plants, insects.
For each one, recognize: this is consciousness appearing as this form.
That person walking by IS consciousness - not has consciousness, IS consciousness.
That bird on the branch IS consciousness experiencing flight and singing.
Your own body IS consciousness appearing as this particular form.
Let this recognition pervade: there is only ONE thing existing - consciousness - appearing as all these different forms. Nothing else exists.
Duration
15-30 minutes
Best Time
When surrounded by living beings
Related Techniques
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