Being the Knowing: The Awareness Beyond the Contents of Consciousness
Often, we find ourselves entangled in the web of our thoughts, feelings, and experiences, believing that we are these contents of our consciousness. However, the spiritual teachings propose a profound shift in perspective: you are not the contents of your consciousness; rather, you are the awareness that knows them. This shift invites you to become the knowing.
Understanding Consciousness and Its Contents
Consciousness can be likened to a vast ocean, and the contents of consciousness—our thoughts, feelings, sensations—are like the waves that arise and subside on the surface. We often identify with these waves, believing that we are our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. However, these elements are transient. They come and go, but something fundamental remains—the awareness that perceives them.
Awareness: The Eternal Witness
This awareness, or consciousness itself, is our true nature. It is the silent observer, the eternal witness of all that arises and subsides within us. It is unchanging and ever-present, unlike the transient contents of consciousness.
We can experience this directly in moments of quiet and stillness. When we momentarily disengage from our thoughts and emotions, we find an undercurrent of silent knowing, a sense of presence that is always there, aware of our experience but not entangled in it.
Being the Knowing
“Being the Knowing” means to identify with this underlying awareness rather than the fleeting contents of consciousness. It means to recognize and rest in our true nature as the silent witness of our experience.
This is not a state to be achieved; rather, it is a recognition of what we have always been. It is not about changing or getting rid of our thoughts and feelings. Instead, it is about changing our relationship with them. We let them be, allowing them to arise and subside without identifying with them or getting caught up in their drama.
How to Be the Knowing
Mindfulness and meditation practices can be beneficial in cultivating this shift in perspective. By intentionally focusing our attention on the present moment and observing our thoughts and feelings without judgment or identification, we can begin to disentangle ourselves from the contents of consciousness and rest in our true nature as awareness.
It can also be helpful to regularly remind ourselves of our true nature throughout the day. Whenever we notice that we are getting caught up in our thoughts and feelings, we can gently remind ourselves: “I am the knowing, not the known.”
Recognizing ourselves as the knowing rather than the contents of consciousness can lead to a profound sense of peace and freedom. It enables us to navigate the ups and downs of life with equanimity, knowing that while the contents of our consciousness may change, our true nature as awareness remains ever-present and unchanging. In this realization, we find a deep sense of homecoming—we come to rest in the truth of who we are!!
Dispelling the Illusion: There is Only Thinking, Not a Thinker”
The notion that there is a thinker behind our thoughts is a deeply ingrained belief. We identify with our minds and believe that we are the thinkers, controlling and directing our thoughts. Yet upon closer inspection, this notion begins to crumble. There is thinking, but no thinker. This may seem counterintuitive at first, but exploring this concept can lead to profound insights into the nature of the mind and the illusion of self.
Understanding The Illusion of the Thinker
The idea of the “thinker” is based on the assumption of a separate self, an entity that exists independently and instigates thought. However, if we try to find this thinker, we come up empty. Where exactly is this thinker located? Is it in the brain? If so, where precisely? The reality is, we cannot pinpoint a thinker because there isn’t one.
The Nature of Thoughts
Thoughts arise spontaneously. They are not called into existence by an independent entity but emerge and dissolve in the field of consciousness. This process is shaped by various factors including conditioning, environment, and biological processes, but there is no central commander in charge of thinking.
When a thought arises, we often automatically identify with it. We believe “I am thinking this”, which reinforces the illusion of the thinker. However, if we observe closely, we can see that thoughts simply arise and pass away. There is no thinker separate from the thought.
The Insight of No-Thinker
Recognizing that there is no thinker, only thinking, can lead to a profound shift in our experience. It can alleviate the burden of believing we need to control our thoughts, a task that is impossible and often leads to suffering. When we see that thoughts come and go spontaneously, we can let go of this need for control.
Furthermore, this insight helps to deconstruct the illusion of a separate self, the ‘I’ that we believe is the thinker. This can lead to the realization of non-duality, the understanding that there is no separation between ourselves and the rest of existence.
Mindfulness and the No-Thinker
Practices such as mindfulness meditation can help cultivate this understanding. In mindfulness, we observe our thoughts without judgment or identification. We see thoughts arise and pass away, and over time, it becomes clear that there is no thinker separate from these thoughts. There is just the process of thinking.
The notion of a thinker is an illusion that perpetuates the sense of a separate self. When we look closely, we see that there is only thinking – thoughts arise and pass away, but there is no separate entity that instigates them. Understanding this can liberate us from the need to control our thoughts and helps dissolve the illusion of separation, opening the door to a more peaceful and connected experience of life.
Why a human being is always seeking?
In our lives, we often find ourselves seeking something: success, happiness, love, or a sense of purpose. Yet, the very act of seeking implies a sense of incompleteness or dissatisfaction with the present moment.
- The Nature of Seeking:
The act of seeking arises from a sense of lack or discontentment within ourselves. We may believe that we are incomplete and that by acquiring certain things or experiences, we will find happiness, fulfillment, or a sense of identity. This constant pursuit often takes us away from the present moment and perpetuates a cycle of desire and dissatisfaction.
- The Illusion of Fulfillment:
Our search for fulfillment is based on the illusion that something external can complete us or bring us lasting happiness. We may spend our lives chasing after various goals and experiences, only to find that each new attainment brings only temporary satisfaction before the desire for more arises. This endless cycle of seeking and attainment prevents us from truly experiencing the richness of life and keeps us trapped in a state of perpetual longing.
- The Path of Self-Inquiry:
To break free from the cycle of seeking, we should engage in self-inquiry – the process of examining our own thoughts, beliefs, and desires. By turning our attention inward, we can begin to question the assumptions that underlie our sense of dissatisfaction and our pursuit of fulfillment. We may discover that our desires are based on conditioned patterns of thinking and that our sense of lack is a product of our own minds.
- The Discovery of Wholeness:
As we engage in self-inquiry and delve into the nature of our seeking, we may come to realize that the sense of wholeness and fulfillment we seek is not something to be found outside ourselves. Instead, it is our true nature, obscured by the thoughts, beliefs, and desires that cloud our perception. By seeing through the illusion of our seeking and recognizing the completeness that is already present within us, we can experience a profound sense of freedom, contentment, and inner peace.
- Living in the Present Moment:
The key to transcending our seeking and experiencing the wholeness of our being lies in living fully in the present moment. By letting go of our attachment to the past and our anticipation of the future, we can open ourselves to the richness and beauty of the here and now. In this state of presence, we can experience life directly, free from the filters of our desires and expectations, and discover the true essence of what it means to be alive.
Through self-inquiry and the cultivation of presence, we can discover the wholeness and contentment that are inherent in our true nature, and experience the freedom, joy, and peace that come from living in harmony with ourselves and the world around us.
The Essence of True Education
Education is the cornerstone of human development, shaping the minds and hearts of future generations. However, the prevalent education system often emphasizes superficial learning rather than promoting inner growth and self-discovery. The current education system often falls short of fostering true learning, focusing instead on the accumulation of knowledge and the achievement of external goals.
The Current Education System: A Factory of Minds
The current education system is akin to a factory, producing uniform, conditioned minds that prioritize the accumulation of knowledge and external achievements. This approach stifles creativity, suppresses individuality, and prevents students from discovering their true nature. Instead of empowering students, it often leaves them feeling disconnected from their inner selves and the world around them. This approach emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge, the development of specific skills, and the achievement of external milestones, such as grades and degrees. While these goals have their place, they can also lead to an imbalanced and superficial form of learning that neglects the inner growth and self-understanding that are essential for a fulfilling life.
The Path of Self-Discovery in Education
The essence of true education lies in guiding individuals on the path of self-discovery. Education should awaken students to their innate curiosity, creativity, and capacity for love and understanding. By encouraging students to explore their inner selves and question the beliefs and assumptions that shape their lives, education can facilitate a deeper understanding of the self and its connection with the world.
Learning Through Experience and Play
Emphasis should always be on experiential learning and play in education as playfulness and curiosity based experience is the true nature of any child. Learning should be a joyful, spontaneous process, where students engage with the world around them and learn through direct experience, rather than merely memorizing information. This approach allows students to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world, fostering a sense of wonder, creativity, and self-expression.
The Role of the Educator:
The role of the educator is not to impose knowledge upon students but to act as a friend and guide, helping them embark on the journey of self-discovery. Teachers should embody the qualities of openness, humility, and love, creating a space where students feel free to express themselves, ask questions, and explore their own inner landscape. By nurturing the unique potential within each student, educators can inspire a lifelong passion for learning and self-growth.
Creating an Environment for True Learning:
To foster a transformative education, schools must create an environment that supports the exploration of both the outer and inner dimensions of life. This involves cultivating an atmosphere of openness, inquiry, and mutual respect, where students feel free to express themselves and question the status quo. It also requires the development of a curriculum that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and self-reflection, as well as the integration of contemplative practices, such as meditation and mindfulness, into the educational process.
Intellect and Intelligence: A Journey Beyond Thought
The concepts of intellect and intelligence are often used interchangeably, yet they represent distinct aspects of the human mind.
- The Realm of the Intellect:
The intellect is the thinking, reasoning, and analytical aspect of the mind. It is the faculty responsible for processing information, solving problems, and making decisions. While the intellect is a powerful tool that has enabled us to create remarkable advances in science, technology, and culture, it is also limited in its scope and understanding.
The intellect, with its reliance on thought, memory, and knowledge, can only provide us with a superficial understanding of reality. By clinging to our intellectual constructs, we inadvertently create barriers that prevent us from directly experiencing the deeper truths of life.
- The Nature of Intelligence:
Intelligence is a holistic and intuitive understanding that transcends the limitations of the intellect. It is a state of awareness that arises when the mind is quiet, unburdened by thought, and fully present in the moment.
True intelligence is not dependent on knowledge or experience; rather, it is an innate capacity for insight, creativity, and empathy that is accessible to everyone. In this state of heightened awareness, we are able to perceive the interconnectedness of all things and respond to the world with clarity, compassion, and wisdom.
- Moving Beyond the Intellect:
Cultivating intelligence requires us to move beyond the confines of the intellect and its thought-based processes. This involves recognizing the limitations of thought, questioning our assumptions and beliefs, and letting go of our attachment to knowledge.
By developing a practice of self-inquiry, mindfulness, and meditation, we can learn to quiet the mind and cultivate a space of inner stillness. In this state of silence, we can access the deeper intelligence that lies at the core of our being, free from the constraints of thought and the intellect.
- The Power of Direct Perception:
Direct perception – the ability to experience reality as it is, without the interference of thought or the intellect. By cultivating a state of intelligence, we can bypass the limitations of the intellect and experience the world directly, without the filter of our mental constructs.
This direct perception allows us to see the true nature of reality, unclouded by our beliefs, assumptions, and expectations. It opens the door to a more profound understanding of ourselves and the world around us, leading to greater clarity, insight, and inner peace.
- The Transformative Potential of Intelligence:
As we develop our capacity for intelligence and learn to move beyond the limitations of the intellect, we can experience a profound transformation in our lives. The cultivation of intelligence allows us to relate to the world with greater empathy, compassion, and understanding, fostering deeper connections with ourselves and others.
Moreover, intelligence offers us the possibility of living with a sense of freedom, unburdened by the constraints of thought, and fully present in the richness of each moment. This freedom enables us to embrace the uncertainty and impermanence of life, responding to the challenges and opportunities that arise with grace, wisdom, and creativity.
Is Time real or invented by thought?
Time is an intriguing concept that permeates almost every aspect of our lives. We measure it, chase after it, and often feel we never have enough of it. But have you ever wondered if Time is relative or absolute? If it is invented by thought. Let us understand nature of Time and its relationship with our thoughts.
The Psychological Dimension of Time:
Time is largely a creation of the human mind. Psychological time, as we call it, is a product of thought and memory, arising from our desire to escape the present moment and seek comfort in the past or the future. This form of time fuels our fears, anxieties, and attachments, keeping us trapped in a cycle of suffering and preventing us from experiencing the fullness of the present moment.
The Illusion of Linear Time:
Our perception of linear time – the idea that time flows from the past, through the present, and into the future – is a construct of the mind. This mental framework, while useful for practical purposes, can limit our understanding of reality and hinder our ability to live fully in the present. By recognizing the illusory nature of linear time, we can begin to free ourselves from the constraints it imposes on our lives. By organizing events into a chronological sequence, we create a sense of order and continuity that helps us navigate our experiences. However, this mental construct of linear time may not accurately reflect the true nature of reality. The mind imposes structure and meaning on our experiences, filtering reality through the lens of our thoughts, memories, and beliefs. In doing so, it may create the illusion of linear time, when in fact, the true nature of time may be more complex and multifaceted.
The illusion of linear time becomes even more apparent when we examine our subjective experience of time. We’ve all experienced moments when time seems to slow down or speed up, depending on our emotional state or level of engagement in an activity. In states of deep meditation or flow, we may even lose our sense of time altogether, experiencing a timeless, eternal present.
These experiences suggest that our perception of time is not fixed or absolute but can be influenced by our state of mind and consciousness. By transcending the mind and its constructs, we can catch glimpses of a reality that exists beyond the boundaries of linear time.
Time and the Ego:
Our attachment to time is closely linked to the ego, the sense of self that arises from our identification with thoughts, memories, and experiences. The ego thrives on the illusion of linear time, using it as a means of reinforcing its own existence and perpetuating the cycle of suffering. By questioning the nature of time, we can begin to loosen the grip of the ego and awaken to a deeper, more expansive sense of self.
Reality is timeless!!
The spectrum of happiness and sorrow
Happiness and sorrow are emotions that are deeply intertwined in the human experience. We often seek happiness and try to avoid sorrow, yet both seem to be an inevitable part of life.
- The Pursuit of Happiness: The pursuit of happiness often arises from a desire to escape the discomfort and pain associated with sorrow. However, this relentless chase for happiness can create a sense of fragmentation and disconnection, as we become focused on achieving a particular state of mind rather than embracing the full spectrum of human emotions
- The Nature of Sorrow: Sorrow is an essential part of the human experience, offering valuable opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By understanding and embracing sorrow, we can learn to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and wisdom, recognizing that both happiness and sorrow are part of the natural ebb and flow of existence.
- The Illusion of Separation: Happiness and sorrow are not separate entities but rather interconnected aspects of the human experience. Our perception of these emotions as distinct from one another arises from the illusion of separation, which is rooted in the ego and the desire to categorize and label our experiences.
- The Role of Self-Knowledge: The emphasis is on self-knowledge in our relationship to happiness and sorrow. By engaging in the process of self-inquiry and understanding the nature of our own minds, we can develop a deeper awareness of the underlying causes of our emotions and cultivate a greater sense of balance and equanimity.
- Living Fully in the Present: Emphasis is on living fully in the present moment. By cultivating mindfulness and presence, we can learn to embrace both happiness and sorrow as they arise, recognizing that each emotion offers an opportunity for growth, learning, and transformation.
Life and Death: Are They Truly Separate Events?
As we journey through life, we are often confronted with the inevitable reality of death, a seemingly separate event that marks the end of our existence. But are life and death truly distinct from one another, or are they simply two sides of the same coin?
To explore this question, we must first delve into the nature of our own consciousness and the way in which we perceive the world. Our thoughts, beliefs, and conditioning often create a fragmented view of reality, causing us to see life and death as separate events. In reality, however, these two experiences are deeply interconnected, and understanding their relationship can bring about a profound sense of freedom and clarity.
Life and death are not separate events, but rather part of an ongoing process of change and transformation. Every moment, our cells are dying and being replaced, our thoughts and emotions are constantly shifting, and our very sense of self is continually evolving. Life, then, is a constant process of birth and death, with each moment presenting an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
The fear of death often arises from our identification with the physical body and the ego, which we mistakenly perceive as our true selves. However, our true essence, the consciousness that lies beyond the limitations of the body and mind, is not subject to birth and death. It is an eternal presence that transcends the boundaries of time and space.
Let us understand this from The journey of Lila:
Once upon a time in a quiet village, there lived a young girl named Lila. She was a curious child, filled with wonder and questions about the nature of life and death. Her inquisitive mind often led her to ponder the mysteries of existence, a topic that both fascinated and frightened her.
One day, while walking through the forest, Lila came across a wise old man who seemed to possess a deep understanding of the world. Eager to learn from his wisdom, Lila asked the old man, “Are life and death truly separate events, or are they simply part of a greater process?”
The old man smiled and replied, “Dear child, life and death are not separate events but rather two aspects of the same eternal flow of existence. They are like the changing seasons or the rising and setting of the sun – a continuous cycle of transformation.”
Intrigued, Lila asked, “But how can I understand this truth for myself? How can I learn to see beyond the boundaries of my own fears and limitations?”
The wise old man replied, “The key lies in the process of self-inquiry. By examining your own beliefs, conditioning, and attachments, you can begin to see the true nature of your existence and embrace the unity of life and death.”
And so, Lila embarked on a journey of self-discovery, delving deep into her own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. She learned to observe her mind and its patterns, gradually releasing her fears and attachments as she began to see the interconnectedness of all things.
As her understanding deepened, Lila discovered that her true essence was not bound by the limitations of her body and mind but was a timeless, unchanging presence that transcended both life and death. This realization brought her a profound sense of freedom and fearlessness, allowing her to fully embrace each moment as an opportunity for growth and transformation.
Throughout her journey, Lila encountered many other travelers who, like her, sought to understand the mysteries of life and death. She shared her newfound wisdom with them, and together they formed a community of seekers, each dedicated to the pursuit of self-knowledge and the exploration of existence.
And so, Lila’s journey continued, her understanding of life and death forever transforming as she delved deeper into the infinite depths of her own consciousness. Through her experiences, she came to see that the journey itself was the destination – a continuous cycle of change, growth, and self-discovery that united all beings in the eternal dance of existence.
In the end, Lila’s story serves as a reminder that life and death are not separate events, but rather part of a greater process of transformation. By engaging in the process of self-inquiry and embracing the interconnectedness of all things, we too can learn to live with a sense of freedom, fearlessness, and unity with the world around us.
The Path to True Learning
By fearlessly accepting that we do not know, we open ourselves to the process of true learning and the profound insights that emerge from a humble and curious mind.
The Fear of Not Knowing
In our modern society, there is often an unspoken pressure to always have answers, to be knowledgeable, and to display competence in various aspects of life. This expectation can create a fear of admitting that we do not know, leading us to either feign knowledge or avoid situations where our ignorance might be exposed. However, we should confront this fear and embrace the reality that we do not know, for it is only in this acknowledgment that true learning can begin.
The Power of Humility and Curiosity
By humbly accepting that we do not know, we open ourselves to the possibility of learning, exploration, and discovery. This attitude of curiosity enables us to approach life with an open mind, free from preconceived notions and the constraints of conditioned thinking.
The mind that does not know and knows that it does not know is an open, clear, innocent mind. It can learn. It is eager to learn. It is not burdened with knowledge.
The Process of True Learning
When we relinquish the fear of not knowing and embrace our innate curiosity, we embark on a journey of true learning. This process involves observation, inquiry, and a willingness to question our own beliefs, assumptions, and conditioning. By cultivating a mind that is open and receptive to new experiences, we create a fertile ground for understanding and self-discovery.
To learn is to deny, negate, put aside everything that you know. Otherwise, you are not learning. If you keep on repeating what you have learned from the past, there is no learning at all.
The Path to Wisdom and Self-Discovery
As we acknowledge and accept our lack of knowledge, we begin to free ourselves from the limitations of the thinking mind and open the door to profound wisdom and self-discovery. By embracing the unknown and cultivating an attitude of curiosity, we align ourselves with the natural unfolding of life, allowing for a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Abhishek Fanse 