Tag: Divine

The Subtle Distinctions of Oneness, Nonduality, and the Sacred

To speak of oneness is to point to a direct perception where boundaries dissolve and all things merge into a singular whole. It is an overwhelming intimacy with existence itself—nothing stands apart, no subject or object remains. The experience carries a profound sense of union, yet it still acknowledges a felt “all” that has become “one.”

Nonduality, by contrast, is not the merging of things into one but the recognition that no separation ever truly existed to begin with. The very categories of “one” and “many” collapse. There is no subject perceiving unity, no object being unified—just the unbroken reality that precedes both. Here, the language of experience falters because even the notion of “an experience” implies duality between experiencer and what is experienced.

To call all things divine or sacred is yet another register. This perception imbues life with reverence, not only as one undivided whole but as shimmering expressions of the holy. Every moment, every being, every breath radiates significance. It is not merely that things are nondual, but that the nondual reality is inherently worthy of devotion. The sacred quality does not rest on belief; it is revealed when perception is refined enough to sense the luminous depth at the heart of being.

The distinctions are subtle, yet they matter. Oneness offers belonging. Nonduality uproots the illusion of separation. The sacred awakens awe and reverence for what is. Together, they sketch the contours of realization, each layer illuminating a different face of truth.

When all three—oneness, nonduality, and the sacred—merge seamlessly, a higher recognition dawns: absolute monism. Here, the whole of existence is seen as a single reality that is simultaneously one, beyond duality, and inherently divine. Nothing is outside of it, nothing is other than it, nothing is less than it. The boundaries of philosophy, devotion, and direct experience collapse into the same source. This is not a synthesis of perspectives but the revelation that they have always been expressions of the same truth. Absolute monism discloses the indivisible essence where belonging, emptiness, and holiness are not separate qualities but different ways of perceiving what is eternally and already the case.

Morgan O. Smith

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Essence and Existence

The Unseen Unity

In the labyrinth of existence, we often perceive ourselves as isolated entities navigating a myriad of external circumstances. Yet, beneath this surface, lies an essential truth: wherever essence is, you are. And wherever you are, only essence remains. This statement is not merely a poetic abstraction but a profound reflection on the nature of reality and our place within it.

Essence, in this context, refers to the fundamental nature of existence. It is the unchanging, underlying reality that permeates all forms and phenomena. It is the substratum of being, the silent witness to all experiences, and the ultimate source from which everything arises and to which everything returns. We begin to see the world through a different lens when we recognize that essence is our true nature.

Our usual mode of perception is dualistic. We see ourselves as separate from the world, creating a dichotomy between self and other, subject and object. This dualistic perception leads to a sense of isolation and disconnection, fueling a continuous search for meaning and fulfillment in the external world. However, when we shift our awareness to the essence, we realize this separation is illusory.

Wherever essence is, you are. This means that our true identity is not confined to the physical body or the individual mind. It is the essence itself, which is infinite and boundless. This essence is present in every moment, in every experience, and every being. It transcends the limitations of time and space, uniting all existence in a seamless whole.

And wherever you are, only essence remains. This implies that in the ultimate analysis, all distinctions and differences dissolve into the unity of essence. The various forms and phenomena we perceive are simply expressions of this one essence. When we look beyond the surface appearances, we see that everything is interconnected and interdependent, arising from and returning to the same source.

This understanding has profound implications for our daily lives. It invites us to shift our focus from the transient to the eternal, from the superficial to the profound. By recognizing our true nature as essence, we can experience a sense of peace and fulfillment that is not dependent on external circumstances. We become more compassionate and empathetic, seeing ourselves in others and others in ourselves.

Moreover, this recognition of essence can transform our relationship with the world. We begin to see the divine in everything and everyone, honouring the sacredness of all existence. This shift in perception fosters a sense of reverence and gratitude, leading to more harmonious and sustainable ways of living.

In essence, recognizing the unity of essence and existence is a journey of awakening. It is a shift from the fragmented perception of the ego to the holistic vision of the true self. It is an invitation to live in alignment with the deeper reality of our being, experiencing the boundless joy and freedom that comes from knowing that wherever essence is, you are. And wherever you are, only essence remains.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

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Mirrors of the Self

Seeing the Divine in All

In the vast expanse of existence, each entity and every moment is a reflective surface, giving us a glimpse of our deepest selves. When we peer into the world, what we encounter is not just matter arranged in space but a mosaic of mirrors, each offering a unique reflection of who we are. The idea that everything we perceive is a reflection of our face is not just a poetic sentiment but a profound philosophical proposition that invites introspection about the nature of self and the universe.

The reflections we see are not literal but abstract, distilling our essence in the myriad forms and phenomena around us. This abstraction is where the beauty of perception lies; it is a canvas where the mind can project its inner workings—its hopes, fears, and dreams. The world outside becomes a screen for the drama of the self to unfold, the grand play of consciousness where every actor wears a mask that resembles something within us.

In this grand reflection, if we are to see the face of God, then it must be understood that this divine visage is not an entity separate from us but interwoven into our being. The divine reflection is the totality of the cosmos itself, a unity where every face is indeed an aspect of a greater countenance. If we are made in the image of the divine, as many traditions suggest, then it follows that the divine is also made in the countless images reflected to us.

Every interaction, every glance at nature, every piece of art, and every human invention is a facet of this divine reflection. We are constantly in dialogue with the divine through the medium of our experiences. In recognizing this, we might come to treat each moment with reverence, understanding that in the act of observation, we are participating in a sacred exchange.

As we walk through the world, let us consider that the beauty, the ugliness, the sublime, and the mundane are all part of the same tapestry, woven with threads of the divine. It is not just in the extraordinary that we can glimpse the face of God, but in the ordinary, the overlooked, and the understated. By recognizing the divine reflections in all that we encounter, we open ourselves to a more profound sense of connection and purpose.

In the end, the philosophy that everything is a reflection of our face does not isolate us in solipsism but connects us to a greater whole. It offers a vision of unity, where the self is not an isolated entity but a vibrant echo of the universe, a reflection of the divine face in the mirror of existence.

Morgan O.  Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Peak Experience

Mount Olympus and Mysticism

To ascend a mountain and stand at its zenith is a profound experience. But to stand atop Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the gods, is to touch a space where the divine meets the mortal. Unlike any other, this mountaintop symbolizes an intersection between the world as we know it and a realm beyond comprehension. What does it mean to attain such an experience? How does this metaphorical journey relate to the mystical peak experiences described by the world’s spiritual seekers?

**1. A Realm Beyond the Senses**

In many religious traditions, mysticism represents an encounter with the Divine, the Ultimate Reality, or the Absolute. These encounters are said to be ineffable, transcending words, and profoundly transformative. Similarly, the summit of Mount Olympus shrouded in myth and legend, exists as a space beyond the ordinary. Both represent realms beyond our senses, places where our ordinary conceptions of reality are challenged.

**2. The Ascent**

The path to mysticism, like the climb to a mountain’s summit, is not without challenges. Doubt, hardship, and uncertainty plague the seeker, testing their commitment and resolve. Yet, it’s through these adversities that transformation occurs. The ascent shapes the soul, refines the spirit, and prepares one for the profound revelations that await at the peak.

**3. Transient Yet Timeless**

Mystical experiences, though often fleeting, leave an indelible mark on the soul. The same can be said about reaching the summit of a great mountain. In that brief moment atop Mount Olympus, one is both part of ancient mythology and the present moment. Time seems to both stand still and move rapidly, offering a glimpse into eternity.

**4. The Return**

Mystical experiences often come with a mandate to return to the ordinary world, bearing the fruits of spiritual insight. Similarly, after reaching the peak, the climber must descend and integrate their experience into their everyday life. They bring back with them a new perspective, a deeper understanding, and a sense of connectedness that enriches their existence.

**5. The Universal Quest**

The legends of Mount Olympus and the experiences of mystics from diverse traditions remind us of a universal human quest: the pursuit of meaning, connection, and a deeper understanding of existence. Whether through meditation, ritual, or scaling a mythical mountain, the journey toward the peak is a timeless endeavour that inspires and challenges us.

In conclusion, with its rich tapestry of legends, Mount Olympus serves as a poignant metaphor for the peak experiences in mysticism. Both offer a transformative journey, a meeting with the transcendent, and a glimpse into realms beyond the ordinary. And in both, the seeker is reminded of the beauty, mystery, and depth of existence.

Morgan O.  Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Trikaya and the Trinity

Parallel Philosophies Across Cultures

Introduction:
In the realms of spirituality, the Buddhist concept of Trikaya and the Christian doctrine of the Trinity share an intriguing resemblance. Trikaya, which translates to ‘Three Bodies’, refers to the Dharmakāya, the Saṃbhogakāya, and the Nirmāṇakāya, while the Trinity consists of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. This blog delves into the philosophical parallels between these central tenets in Buddhism and Christianity.

Trikaya in Buddhism:
The Dharmakāya or “Truth Body” represents the unmanifested aspect of Buddha, embodying the ultimate nature of reality and enlightenment. The Saṃbhogakāya or “Enjoyment Body” refers to the celestial Buddha who brings teachings to enlightened beings. The Nirmāṇakāya or “Emanation Body” represents the historical and physical form of the Buddha, which is accessible and relatable to ordinary beings.

The Trinity in Christianity:
The Trinity comprises the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. The Father signifies the unmanifest aspect of God, the ultimate creator. The Son, Jesus Christ, symbolizes the physical embodiment of God’s will. The Holy Ghost represents the guiding spiritual force, which brings wisdom and understanding to believers.

Philosophical Parallels:

1. Unmanifest and Eternal:
In Buddhism, the Dharmakāya is akin to the Christian concept of the Father. Both represent the unmanifest, eternal aspects of the divine. While the Dharmakāya embodies the ultimate truth and wisdom, the Father signifies the ultimate creative force.

2. Physical Embodiment:
The Nirmāṇakāya in Buddhism and the Son in Christianity are manifestations of the divine in human form. They are relatable and accessible to ordinary beings. Through their physical forms, they guide and lead by example. The Nirmāṇakāya (Buddha) through enlightenment and the Son (Jesus) through sacrifice and resurrection.

3. Guiding Force:
The Saṃbhogakāya and the Holy Ghost serve as the connecting link between the divine and the earthly realms. The Saṃbhogakāya, through celestial teachings, guides enlightened beings, while the Holy Ghost acts as a messenger of God, bringing wisdom and understanding to the faithful.

Conclusion:
The Trikaya and the Trinity represent complex theological concepts that offer deep insights into the nature of divinity. The parallel elements in these concepts hint at a universal human yearning to understand the divine and to connect with it. While they emerge from different cultural and religious traditions, their striking similarities foster an appreciation of the rich tapestry of spiritual thought across the world. Through the exploration of such parallels, we can find common ground in our quest for spiritual understanding and fulfillment.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith


In Divine Light

Society’s Golden Shadow 

Intro:

In a world where the quest for meaning continues to stir the human soul, spirituality and reverence for the divine emerge as quintessential human experiences. But what if the collective admiration and worship of God are manifestations of society’s golden shadow – the unexplored, positive aspects of our shared unconscious? This post delves into the notion that the sacred spaces we turn towards in times of despair or joy are indeed reflections of the inherent greatness within ourselves.

Understanding the Golden Shadow:

Drawing from Carl Jung’s concepts, the golden shadow encompasses the positive attributes within our unconscious minds that we might not recognize. When these attributes are exemplified by an external entity, such as a deity, we project our golden shadow upon it.

God as the Epitome of Society’s Golden Shadow:

The divine figures across cultures are often epitomes of virtues – love, compassion, wisdom, and more. Society’s adoration for these figures could be interpreted as an admiration for the virtues themselves. The deities become mirrors, reflecting what individuals and societies aspire to embody.

Religion as a Path to Self-Realization:

One could argue that the rituals, prayers, and moral teachings of religion serve as vehicles for cultivating the qualities represented by the divine within ourselves. In essence, by worshipping or admiring God, individuals are also venerating and nurturing their own latent potential.

The Challenges:

This perspective might not sit well with everyone, especially those who believe in the transcendental nature of God. Moreover, using religious practices solely as tools for self-improvement might seem reductive. It’s essential to approach this hypothesis with respect for the diversity of beliefs and experiences.

Conclusion:

The notion that society’s worship and admiration for God is a projection of its golden shadow is thought-provoking. It offers a lens through which we can perceive religious and spiritual practices as not just pathways to the divine, but also as avenues to recognize and cultivate the virtues within ourselves. Whether or not one subscribes to this idea, it invites reflection on the profound interconnectedness between the human spirit and the sacred.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith