Beltaine

Spirituality and Nonduality - A Practical Approach
By Remez Sasson

Article

Nonduality is a philosophy, which says that there is just one spirit in the Universe, and everything that exists is part of this one spirit. It further says that it is only illusion that causes us to view the world as separate from us. This philosophy comes from the Far East; in India it is called Advaita-Vedanta. For someone not familiar with this philosophy it may sound strange and even weird, but once understood, it completely changes one's attitude and perspective about life.

Imagine a state in which you feel being one with everything, not as a separate ego. As state in which you enjoy immense peace of mind and happiness, but yet, acting and functioning normally in your day-to-day life. A state in which you manifest tolerance, patience, love and understanding. It is a state of being above the petty ego, and experiencing oneness with the One Spirit that is the essence of everything. This is the experience of nonduality.

Ordinarily, the veil of thoughts and sensory stimulus draws the mind outside, to the outside world, and obscure the awareness of the consciousness that is beyond the mind. A successful practice of meditation and contemplation makes the mind peaceful, and develops the ability to silence it. In this state of inner silence one stops the identification with the mind, thoughts and ego, gets beyond the illuson of separateness, and realizes the oneness with the One Spirit. It is as if a new sort of consciousness dawns. One views the world in a different manner.

With this kind of consciousness the mind becomes active or is silent at our command. It becomes our faithful servant, instead of being our master. We function very effectively in the outer world, yet our basis is in pure, calm and limitless consciousness, which is not attached to anything and not limited by anything.

When we are in this state, we view the world from the nonduality point of view. We live in nonduality. To our mind, which we use in this world, there is "I", "you", "he", "she" and "they", but these "others" are only apparent. There is only One Spirit, Consciousness, which apparently manifests in limitless forms and ways.

Nonduality is not a hazy lunatic idea. It can be experienced and lived right here and now, no matter where you are, and without attracting anybody's attenttion. It is an inner state of consciousness, not an outer state.

It is possible to realize the meaning of nonduality and attain spiritual awakening and enlightenment in an ashram or a cave, and it is also equally possible to do so while living in a town or city with family and job. It is all a matter of strong desire and inner attitude.

It is true that not everyone can live a secluded life in order to meditate and lead a purely spiritual life. Most of us need to work and support a family, and can therefore devote only a part of the day to spiritual pursuits. The good news is that we can practice meditation and realize our true being, without abandoning our present style of living. With proper planning it is possible to find the time and the energy.

Inner spiritual work, such as meditation and working toward the practical realization of nonduality, can be practiced without changing anything outwardly. There is no need for special clothes, flowers or incense. You can stay with your job and family, and yet, at the same time advance spiritualy and realize the meaning of nonduality.