Temple of Silence Document Library

The Unity of All Things

Groundbreaking insights from science, philosophy, and spirituality reveal a profound truth: space is not empty, and separation is an illusion. Instead, space itself serves as the unifying field that connects all things.

Defending an Apparition

This article explores the nondual perspective on flaws, ego, and liberation. It reveals how defending an illusion keeps us bound, while allowing awareness to expose and dissolve this illusion leads to profound freedom.

Outward Facing Path and Inward Facing Path

There is often discussion of two complementary approaches to self-realization: the 'outward facing path' and the 'inward facing path.' These paths are not mutually exclusive but offer distinct means of engaging with the ultimate truth.

The Unattached Self

In his illuminating talk, Swami Sarvapriyananda delves into the concept of Asango'ham, a Sanskrit term translating to "I am unattached." This exploration of detachment transcends mere renunciation of worldly possessions or relationships. Instead, it invites us to recognize the inherent freedom of the Self, untouched by the fluctuations of the world, body, and mind.

Dimensionless Reality

This article explores how, despite the possibility of seemingly infinite dimensions in the relative world, they all arise within a deeper, dimensionless reality: consciousness.

Remain As You Are - An Honest Look

For many seekers, the search for clarity often leads to a desire for a structured practice or something tangible to grasp. The ‘honest look’ suggested here is not about adopting new beliefs or practices. It is not about accumulating knowledge or achieving special states. Instead, it is about reducing and shedding layers of conditioning and beliefs that obscure what is always present.

Beyond 'What About Me'

For most people, life revolves around the thought, “What about me?” This preoccupation with self shapes decisions, relationships, and ambitions. It emerges from a deeper identification with the "person"—the sense of a separate self, or ego, that seeks to protect and enhance itself.

Moving from Complexity to Simplicity

The nondual path often begins with the mind - a tool sharpened by inquiry, reason, and reflection. For the seeker, this stage can feel confounding, as the intellect struggles to grasp truths that transcend its capacity.

I, Consciousness - The Intrepid Explorer

Imagine a moment where your inner questions - “Why am I here?”“What’s the purpose?” “How does reality work?” - fall silent. Not because you’ve found neat answers, but because something shifts within, making these questions seem, in a way, beside the point. Instead, you feel a deep resonance with the world around you, a clarity that’s quiet yet unmistakably present.

The Tenets of Nonduality

These tenets are key concepts that help bring clarity and understanding to the recognition of our true nature as awareness.

Sharpen Your Axe, Mend Your Bucket

The phrase “chop wood, carry water” is familiar to many and, if you consider yourself on a spiritual path, you will have almost certainly heard or read it. This simple phrase is believed to have its origins in the Zen tradition and has been stated simply as “chop wood, carry water” but also as a kōan.

The Fragrance of Being - Resting in Presence

In the journey of self-realization, one of the most significant transformations is the recognition of presence. This presence is the space in which all objects arise - whether thoughts, emotions, or perceptions. It is not something one needs to attain or create; it is ever-present, silently witnessing the unfolding of life.