Recently, I saw a DVD talk by Lorne Hoff called Zero. Part of the talk was a kind of countdown of the stages:
3 – dimensions of space, the field of multiplicity in typical waking state. (and dreams)
2 – absolute and relative in Cosmic Consciousness – Atman and the world, the second perhaps seen as illusion.
1 – the Oneness of Unity
0 – Brahman, beyond being and non-being, nothing or zero.
In a sense, the number zero is a better representation than “nothing” for it is the ground and source of all numbers. He observed that while Brahman was difficult to speak of and impossible to grasp, even for someone in Unity, it was good to speak of it as it was important for Being to know there was more, beyond itself. “Beyond the beyond”.
Davidya
Knowing the power of attention and intention, it is great to know there is always more, even if the more is beyond attention and intention? Consciousness here is still the permanent transparent silk, and the heart is blossoming, seems like it is more than good enough already. But percieving that there is much more to come. Retreat this weekend with Lorn and Lucia, feels very powerful. Thanks, David.
Hi Kjetil
Interesting to consider. I would say Brahman is not beyond attention and intention. The quality of alertness is present in Brahman, which enlivened is attention. It’s not something but allows Brahman to know itself. The qualities of liveliness and intelligence are also present and lead to intention. This isn’t a mental intention, but more a “direction in consciousness” or a direction of attention.
Vaisheshika, one of the 6 systems of Indian philosophy, considers direction to be fundamental. It is the direction attention takes which gives rise to expression and the world we experience.
And yes, knowing there is more helps us to not get stuck part way.