Understanding Non Duality: The Ultimate Truth

Is non duality true? The concept of non duality is a profound idea that has been pondered by countless philosophers and spiritual seekers throughout history. While non duality is not a mere truth in the conventional sense, it serves as a profound pointer toward the essence of reality beyond conceptual dualities.

Non-Duality and Dualistic Consciousness

We all navigate life through the lens of subject and object duality. However, beyond this is a third state - the witness consciousness. This witness, which is awareness itself, is often referred to as God, Atman, or cosmic consciousness in different spiritual traditions. It is the foundation of all phenomena that occur in this universe. The realization of the eternal Atman brings about moksha or liberation, where one identifies with the ultimate self.

The phrase “I am a drop of the Ocean of consciousness” encapsulates the essence of non-duality, suggesting that the ego is merely a projection from the infinite consciousness.

The True Nature of Non-Duality

True non-duality is the realization that Brahman, the ultimate reality, is the only truth. Everything else is seen as unreal or false because it is perceived through the lens of duality. The one who truly grasps this reality is indeed non-dual. We are inherently non-dual by nature, as we are the essence of Brahman. This is the principle of Ekamevadwitiyam, where only one existence remains without any second.

Breaking Down the Separation

Non-duality suggests that there is no separation between the self and the world. Everything you perceive is a projection of your own consciousness. You are the creator of your own reality. Even entities like God, hell, heaven, and satan are part of this projection. When these dualities are transcended, what remains is the absolute reality - the true Self.

The Vedas provide a method called Neti Neti (not this, not this) to help break down these dualities. Through continuous practice, one learns to detach from the temporary and illusory nature of the body and mind. The focus shifts to becoming a mere witness of these processes, observing without attachment or reaction.

Practical Paths to Non-Duality

Meditation practices, such as focusing on the heart chakra, can serve as a guide to remind one of their true self. Imagining the heart chakra as a flower with a thousand petals and a flame at its center helps in grounding one in this eternal presence. Swami Vivekananda's commentary on Rajyoga provides a clearer understanding of this process, offering a practical path toward realization.

Ultimately, the journey toward non duality is not about rejecting concepts but transforming how we perceive them. It invites us to look beyond the dualistic constructs that often confine our understanding.