“The unification of mind in śamatha is temporary and conditioned. However, the unification around Insight is far more profound, and it’s permanent. When temporary unification around a shared intention fades, each sub-mind operates as a separate entity, constrained by and at the mercy of the mind-system as a whole. Therefore, individual sub-minds strive to preserve their autonomy and, as much as possible, direct the resources of the mind-system toward their individual goals. Yet after Insight, the various sub-minds become unified around a shared Insight into impermanence, emptiness, suffering, no-Self, and interconnectedness. From this flow a corresponding set of shared values: harmlessness, compassion, and loving-kindness. Now each sub-mind operates as an independent part of a much greater whole, working for the good of that whole. This allows each sub-mind to do its job effectively, without running into fundamental conflicts with other sub-minds. When enough of the mind-system has undergone this transformation, we’re able to function as an individual person while simultaneously perceiving ourselves as part of an indivisible and inconceivably greater whole.”
Quote by Culadasa (John Yates)
Work
The Mind Illuminated: A Complete Meditation Guide Integrating Buddhist Wisdom and Brain Science
Browse quotes and source details for this work. more
Author
You May Also Like
Source: Nuclear Weapons Free World - Peace on the Earth
Source: Animals and World Religions
Source: Evening by Evening
“Compassion is the wave of love that inspires courage and spirit.”
Source: Feared Intellectualism
Source: Monk Meets World
Source: Animals and World Religions
Source: Animals and World Religions