Can Oneness be the Enlightenment ?

 

Introduction

It is important to discern enlightenment or Nirvana described in Buddhism from other similar concepts in different western and eastern spiritual teaching and practices. Even though it seems that these differences are not so critical , they create a lot confusion  when it comes to understanding them with clarity. This is an effort to ease the struggle and shed a light on certain critical principles, concepts and practices with the view of contrasting and comparing so that ambiguities are cleared.

 

What is Unity or Oneness ?

Advaita Vedanta is a school of Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the idea of non-dualism or Advaita. According to this philosophy, the ultimate reality or Brahman is a single, eternal, and indivisible consciousness that pervades everything in the universe.

 

Unity or oneness, therefore, is a fundamental concept in Advaita Vedanta. It is the realization that there is no separation between the individual self (jiva) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). The individual self is seen as a limited expression of Brahman, and the true nature of the self is identical with Brahman.

 

The path to realizing this unity involves removing the ignorance or avidya that creates the illusion of separation between the self and the ultimate reality. This is done through spiritual practices such as self-inquiry (atma-vichara), meditation, and the study of sacred texts such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita.

 

The ultimate goal of Advaita Vedanta is to achieve liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death by realizing the true nature of the self as Brahman.

 

What is the difference between Moksha in Vedanta and Nirvana in Buddhism ?

Moksha in Vedanta and Nirvana in Buddhism are similar concepts in that they both represent the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, which is the liberation from suffering and the attainment of a state of permanent bliss and peace. However, there are some differences between the two concepts:

 

Ultimate reality: In Vedanta, the ultimate reality is seen as a single, eternal, and indivisible consciousness or Brahman, which pervades everything in the universe. In Buddhism, the ultimate reality is seen as emptiness or shunyata, which is the absence of inherent existence in all phenomena.

 

Self: In Vedanta, the self or Atman is seen as identical with Brahman. The individual self is a limited expression of Brahman, and the true nature of the self is non-different from Brahman. In Buddhism, there is no self or soul that is separate from the world, and the concept of self is seen as an illusion or a mental construct.

 

Path to liberation: In Vedanta, the path to liberation involves the removal of ignorance (avidya) and the realization of the true nature of the self as Brahman through spiritual practices such as self-inquiry, meditation, and the study of sacred texts. In Buddhism, the path to liberation involves the Four Noble Truths, which include the recognition of suffering, the causes of suffering, the cessation of suffering, and the path to the cessation of suffering, which involves the Eightfold Path.

 

Liberation: In Vedanta, liberation or moksha is the realization of the true nature of the self as Brahman, which is permanent and eternal. In Buddhism, Nirvana is the state of liberation from suffering, which is described as a state of non-attachment, non-grasping, and non-identification with phenomena. It is often described as the cessation of all mental afflictions and the attainment of peace and bliss. However, Nirvana is not seen as a permanent state or a permanent state of being.

 

Purpose of liberation: In Vedanta, the purpose of liberation is to end the cycle of birth and death and attain eternal happiness and peace. The liberated person is seen as being one with Brahman and having transcended the limitations of the body and mind. In Buddhism, the purpose of liberation is not only for oneself but also for the benefit of all sentient beings. The liberated person is seen as having overcome the delusions and afflictions that cause suffering and being able to guide others on the path to liberation.

 

Role of the teacher: In Vedanta, the teacher or guru plays an important role in guiding the student on the path to liberation. The teacher is seen as someone who has already attained liberation and can help the student remove their ignorance and realize their true nature. In Buddhism, while the teacher is still important, the emphasis is more on personal effort and individual realization. The Buddha is seen as a guide and a model for the path to liberation, but ultimately each individual must find their own way.

 

 

Oneness/Unity in Buddhism

In Buddhism, the concept of oneness or unity is expressed through the teaching of interdependence or dependent origination (pratitya-samutpada). This teaching emphasizes that all phenomena are interdependent and arise in dependence upon other phenomena. Nothing exists independently or in isolation. This view of interdependence is often referred to as the "non-dual" perspective in Buddhism.

 

However, Buddhism does not posit an ultimate reality or self that is identical with all phenomena, as is the case in Vedanta. Instead, Buddhism teaches that all phenomena are empty of inherent existence, or shunyata. This means that phenomena do not possess any independent or inherent nature, and their existence is dependent upon other phenomena.

 

Therefore, while both Vedanta and Buddhism recognize the interconnectedness of all things, they differ in their understanding of the ultimate nature of reality and the self. Vedanta posits an eternal, indivisible consciousness or Brahman that is identical with the self, while Buddhism emphasizes the non-dual perspective of interdependence and the emptiness of all phenomena.

 

Difference between Oneness in Vedanta and Dependent Origination in Buddhism

Oneness in Vedanta and dependent origination in Buddhism are two different concepts that describe the nature of reality in their respective traditions.

 

Oneness in Vedanta is the idea that the ultimate reality or Brahman is a single, eternal, and indivisible consciousness that pervades everything in the universe. The individual self (jiva) is seen as a limited expression of Brahman, and the true nature of the self is identical with Brahman. The path to realizing this oneness involves removing the ignorance or avidya that creates the illusion of separation between the self and the ultimate reality.

 

Dependent origination in Buddhism is the teaching that all phenomena arise in dependence upon other phenomena. Nothing exists independently or in isolation, and everything is interconnected. The teaching of dependent origination emphasizes the interdependent nature of reality, and how everything is influenced by causes and conditions that are constantly changing.

 

What is  Emptiness or Shunyatha ?

Let's take the example of a table. From a conventional or relative perspective, we can say that the table exists and has certain characteristics such as shape, color, and function. However, from an ultimate or absolute perspective, the table is empty of inherent or permanent existence.

 

This means that the table does not exist independently or in isolation. It arises in dependence upon other factors, such as the wood, the carpenter who made it, the tools used, and the environment in which it exists. The table is constantly changing and impermanent, and it does not have an inherent or fixed nature.

 

Furthermore, the concept of a "table" is a mental construct or label that we apply to the collection of phenomena that we perceive as a table. This label is not an inherent characteristic of the table itself, but a designation that we give it based on our mental conventions and cultural conditioning.

 

Therefore, when we recognize the emptiness or shunyata of the table, we understand that it is not a fixed and permanent entity, but a collection of changing and dependent phenomena that arise in dependence upon other factors. This recognition of emptiness can lead to a deeper understanding of the interdependent nature of all phenomena and the cessation of attachment to fixed concepts and mental constructs.

 

The concept of shunyata or emptiness extends beyond the example of a table and applies to all phenomena, including the self. In Buddhism, the self is seen as a collection of ever-changing mental and physical phenomena that arise in dependence upon other factors. There is no fixed or permanent self that exists independently or in isolation.

 

This recognition of the emptiness or shunyata of the self can lead to a profound shift in one's understanding of reality and the nature of suffering. When we recognize that the self is empty of inherent existence, we see that our experiences of pleasure, pain, and suffering arise in dependence upon other factors and are impermanent. This understanding can lead to the cessation of attachment to the self and the alleviation of suffering.

 

It is important to note that the concept of shunyata or emptiness does not imply nihilism or the denial of the existence of phenomena. Instead, it points to the dependent and impermanent nature of all phenomena and the emptiness of a fixed and permanent self or essence.

 

 

Shunyatha  vs nihilism

Shunyata or emptiness and nihilism are two distinct philosophical concepts. While they may appear similar on the surface, there are some fundamental differences between them. Here are some of the key differences between shunyata and nihilism:

 

Nature of Reality: Shunyata is the Buddhist concept that all phenomena are empty of inherent or permanent existence. It emphasizes the dependent and impermanent nature of all phenomena, including the self. Nihilism, on the other hand, is the belief that nothing exists, that everything is meaningless and lacks purpose.

 

Dependent Arising: In Buddhism, the concept of dependent arising emphasizes the interdependent nature of all phenomena. All things arise in dependence upon other factors, and there is no fixed or permanent essence to anything. Nihilism, on the other hand, denies the existence of any inherent or meaningful relationships between things.

 

Ethics: Shunyata emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior and actions that arise from a deep understanding of the interdependent nature of all things. Nihilism, on the other hand, often leads to a disregard for ethics and morality, as there is no inherent meaning or purpose to life.

 

Attitude towards life: The Buddhist view of shunyata recognizes that while all phenomena are ultimately empty, they still exist conventionally and have relative value. Nihilism, on the other hand, rejects any inherent value or meaning to life and can lead to despair, apathy, and a lack of motivation.

 

To illustrate these differences, let's take the example of a flower. From a shunyata perspective, the flower is empty of inherent or permanent existence. It arises in dependence upon other factors such as the seed, soil, water, sunlight, and so on. The flower is constantly changing and impermanent, and it does not have an inherent or fixed nature.

 

Nihilism, on the other hand, might argue that the flower does not exist at all, that it is an illusion or a mental construct. This attitude towards reality denies the existence of the flower and any inherent value or meaning that it might have.

 

Furthermore, while shunyata recognizes the relative value of conventional reality, nihilism tends to reject any meaning or purpose to life altogether. This can lead to a sense of despair, apathy, and nihilistic attitudes and behaviors.

 

Another example that highlights the difference between shunyata and nihilism is the concept of the self. In Buddhism, the self is seen as empty of inherent existence, constantly changing and arising in dependence upon other factors. This understanding of the self is important because it can lead to a deeper understanding of the interdependent nature of all things and alleviate suffering.

 

Nihilism, on the other hand, may argue that the self does not exist at all, that it is an illusion or a mental construct. This attitude towards the self can lead to a sense of meaninglessness and despair and can also lead to a disregard for ethical behavior and actions.

 

Nirvana in Buddhism

Nirvana is a central concept in Buddhism, and it refers to the ultimate goal of the Buddhist path. It is often described as a state of freedom from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.

 

According to the Buddha, nirvana is the ultimate state of peace, happiness, and liberation. It is a state of complete freedom from all mental and emotional suffering. In Buddhist philosophy, nirvana is seen as the highest goal of human existence, and it is attained through the practice of the Eightfold Path, which includes right understanding, intention, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration.

 

The Buddha described nirvana as a state of complete and perfect understanding, where one realizes the true nature of reality and achieves a profound sense of peace and contentment. It is a state of non-attachment, where one is free from all forms of craving and clinging. The Buddha also described nirvana as a state of ego lessness, where the illusion of a fixed and permanent self is dissolved, and one experiences a sense of interconnectedness with all beings.

 

While the exact nature of nirvana is difficult to describe in words, the Buddha used various metaphors and analogies to explain it. For example, he compared nirvana to the extinguishing of a flame, where all the fuel of suffering has been consumed and the flame of existence is finally extinguished. He also compared nirvana to the cooling of a fever, where all the heat and agitation of the mind has been calmed and one experiences a deep sense of peace and tranquility.

 

 

Difference between Shunyatha and Nirvana

Shunyata and Nirvana are both key concepts in Buddhist philosophy, but they represent slightly different aspects of the path to liberation.

 

Shunyata, or emptiness, refers to the idea that all phenomena lack inherent existence or self-nature. According to Buddhist philosophy, everything in the universe arises dependently and is therefore empty of any independent existence. This means that everything is interconnected and interdependent, and there is no fixed or permanent self.

 

Nirvana, on the other hand, refers to the state of ultimate liberation and freedom from suffering that is attained through the realization of shunyata. It is often described as a state of complete peace, happiness, and contentment.

 

Here are some key differences between shunyata and nirvana:

 

Shunyata is a philosophical concept that describes the nature of reality, while Nirvana is a state of being that is achieved through the practice of the Buddhist path.

 

Shunyata emphasizes the emptiness or lack of inherent existence of all phenomena, while Nirvana emphasizes the attainment of a state of ultimate peace and freedom from suffering.

 

Shunyata is a realization that can be achieved through the practice of meditation and contemplation, while Nirvana is a goal that is reached through the cultivation of wisdom, ethical conduct, and mindfulness.

 

Shunyata is an intellectual understanding of the nature of reality, while Nirvana is a direct experience of that reality.

 

In some Buddhist traditions, Nirvana is described as a state of non-dual awareness, where the individual realizes the interdependence and interconnectedness of all phenomena, and sees through the illusions of the ego and the dualistic nature of reality. This realization leads to a complete cessation of suffering and the attainment of ultimate peace and happiness.

 

It's important to note that Nirvana is not seen as a permanent state of being, but rather a non- state that cannot be be experienced and maintained through continued practice and effort.

 

In this state, there is no separation between subject and object, self and other, or any other dichotomies that we normally perceive in our everyday experience. Instead, there is a profound sense of unity and interconnectedness with all beings and phenomena.

 

It's important to note, however, that the experience of non-duality can be difficult to describe or put into words, as it transcends the limitations of language and conceptual thinking. It is something that must be experienced directly through the practice of meditation and other spiritual practices.

 

Overall, the experience of Nirvana can be considered non-dual in the sense that it transcends the normal distinctions and dichotomies of our everyday experience and offers a profound realization of unity and interconnectedness.

 

Nondual Awareness and Science

The concept of non-dual awareness can be difficult to understand from a Western scientific perspective, as it is rooted in Eastern spiritual traditions and is not easily described or measured by empirical methods.

 

However, one way to approach the concept of non-dual awareness from a scientific perspective is to look at the research on meditation and the effects it has on the brain. Studies have shown that long-term meditation practice can lead to changes in the brain that are associated with increased empathy, decreased activity in the default mode network (DMN), and increased activity in the insula, which is associated with interoceptive awareness (1).

 

These changes in the brain suggest that meditation can lead to a shift in awareness away from the default mode of thinking and towards a more direct and present experience of reality. This shift can be described as a move away from dualistic thinking, where there is a clear separation between the self and the external world, and towards a more holistic and integrated understanding of reality.

 

In terms of Nirvana, the experience of non-dual awareness is often described in Vedanta as a direct realization of the interconnectedness of all phenomena, including the self and the external world. This realization goes beyond intellectual understanding and involves a direct experience of oneness or unity with all things.

 

While this may seem mystical or difficult to grasp from a Western scientific perspective, it is important to remember that science is always evolving and expanding our understanding of the world. Just as our understanding of the brain and consciousness is constantly evolving, so too is our understanding of spiritual practices and experiences like Nirvana.

 

It is also important to note that the concept of non-dual awareness is not unique to Buddhism or other Eastern spiritual traditions. The concept of oneness or unity can also be found in various Western spiritual and philosophical traditions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Platonism.

 

From a scientific perspective, the concept of non-dual awareness can be seen as a shift in consciousness from a dualistic mode of thinking to a more integrated and holistic mode of thinking. This shift has been studied in various contexts, including psychedelic experiences, where individuals report a profound sense of oneness and unity with all things.

 

For example, a study conducted by researchers at Imperial College London found that psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, can lead to a shift in consciousness towards a more non-dual state (1). Participants in the study reported a profound sense of unity and interconnectedness with all things, and this experience was associated with changes in brain activity in regions associated with the default mode network and the sense of self.

 

Summary

It is very clear that there are shuttle differences among the concepts of oneness, non-duality, emptiness, dependent origination and enlightenment. As enlightenment is an experience which cannot be described by using language, it is obvious that  it is a struggle when someone tries to comprehend  something incomprehensible. What the finite mind can do is to make an assumption of what it is and  interpret by using words. The language of enlightenment is the direct experience of it and become silent.