Understanding the Subject/Object Dichotomy
The greatest problem facing human kind is the confusion resulting from our urgent desires to get what we want, to avoid what we don’t want, and to understand our own nature as we try to sort it all out. Philosophers have some fancy words to describe this confusion. They call it the Subject-Object Dichotomy. The word “dichotomy” describes the way we see a division. An “object” is a way of describing anything we want or don’t want. A simple way to understand an object is to think of a beautiful, fancy, high end car. Then think of a young person (Subject) who desires that car. He or she wants that car in a bad way. It is the “object” of their desire. They think having that car will solve a range of problems and make them truly happy. So they save and they get a better job and finally they buy that car. For a while everything is just wonderful as they zoom around and look so amazing in that wonderful car. Then it gets a scratch. Oh Horrors! A scratch! Then comes a dent, and another scratch, and another dent, causing a piece of trim to fall off. Then comes a lost job and troubles making the payments. And so the story goes on.
We desire all sorts of objects. We also want to avoid the bad things in life, like bills, wrecks, and the repo-man. The truth is that the vast majority of us human beings are spending most of our time and energy struggling to get what we want and to avoid what we don’t want. That is the “Object “ part of the Subject/Object Dichotomy.
The “Subject” part concerns us and our own self understanding. Who, or what are we that we desire to have or to avoid all these things? This gets confusing because our desires and our aversions can become so intense that they literally consume us. Our identity and sense of self become predominated by our desires and by that which we wish to escape. This could be a relationship, money, health, a job, possessions, or any other object of desire or aversion. This in turn brings us into a world of pain, sorrow, and conflict. So who ARE we in this confusing world of desires and aversions?
There are three great spiritual systems that address our need to get past the division between our sense of self and our world full of desires and aversions.
Each of these systems of thought remind us that the binding forces of our desires and our aversions are ultimately illusions. They are not real. The power of our emotional passions, attachments, and aversions sure make them seem real, but they are ultimately unreal. They have the substance of a dream. To see this, all one needs to do is to consider how rapidly our desires and aversions will change. They change every day.
The first system is the Hindu school of thought known as Sanatama Dharma. Specifically, within the Chandogya Upanishad we find the formula known by the Sanskrit phrase “TAT TVAM ASI”. Pronounced “tat tuam asi,” this phrase translates to “That also is You”, or “You also are that.” This simple phrase is a great way of reminding ourselves that we need to find a peaceful perspective on all our desires and aversions. If we ARE our desires and aversions, we would do well to think deeply about what we desire and what we wish to avoid.
In any situation where our desires or our aversions are inflamed, we need to remember that our true nature is Mind. We literally ARE the way we THINK. Our mind is an amazingly powerful thing though, because we can always change the way we think. According to Sanatana Dharma, there is no separation between our minds and the objects of desire or aversion. The power of transcendence resides in the quality of our thought.
Another great school of thought that teaches basically the same thing is Tibetan Buddhism. This teaching is clearly spelled out in the Tibetan Book of the Dead which has recently been published by Penguin Classics. These are the teachings of non- dualistic non-attachment. The idea here is that we can find our way clear of all our attachments, both the positive and the negative ones by seeking the peaceful clarity of “Buddha Mind.” Once again, all the attachments and aversions that plague us are ultimately only illusions. What abides forever is Mind. By cultivating peace of mind we can cultivate peace everywhere else.
These teachings are also at the very center of the teachings of Jesus, especially as they are stated in the Gospel of John. The ability of Mind to rise above the details of the conditions of our lives can be found through close identification with the “I AM” teachings of Jesus as recorded by John. We usually misinterpret these teachings by limiting them to the specific culture of our specific religions and specific churches. These teachings are not meant to produce converts for local modern churches. They are meant to show us how Jesus identifies with the Mind of God. By taking them to heart, we also can identify with the same Mind of God. When our mind identifies with Christ Consciousness and with the Mind of God, we can put all the circumstances and conditions of our lives into deep perspective. All the illusions simply fade away. We let go of our ego attachments, our fears, and our revulsions. Instead we find the “peace of God which surpasses all understanding.” (Philippians 4:7). By Christ consciousness we learn to see what is real.
Properly understood, all these teachings bring us to a solution to the Subject/Object Dichotomy. In the end, there really is no division. There is only the nature and quality of our thought.
Blessings and Peace,
Pastor Steve
In the midst of a car cemetery, where old vehicles find their final resting place, we are reminded of the transient nature of material possessions. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the subject-object dichotomy that exists within us.
Amidst the rusted metal and faded paint, we are confronted with the duality of desire and revulsion. We may find ourselves drawn to the beauty of certain cars, captivated by their design and history. Simultaneously, we may feel a sense of repulsion towards the decay and abandonment that surrounds us.
This juxtaposition invites us to reflect on our own desires and revulsions in life. It encourages us to rise above the surface-level attractions and aversions, seeking a deeper understanding and unity.
Just as these cars once served a purpose and held value to their owners, so too do our desires and revulsions shape our experiences. By acknowledging and transcending this duality, we can find a greater sense of harmony within ourselves and our interactions with the world.
As we wander through the car cemetery, let us contemplate the interplay between our desires and revulsions, embracing a broader perspective that goes beyond surface-level judgments. In doing so, we open ourselves to a richer experience of unity, acceptance, and inner growth.
Introducing the confusion, pain, and sorrow caused by our desires and the things we want to avoid. This is also known as the subject/object dichotomy.
The inherent duality of human experience - the subject/object dichotomy. We are often entangled in a web of desires and aversions, seeking pleasure and avoiding pain. This perpetual cycle of attachment and resistance can lead to confusion, pain, and sorrow. The subject/object dichotomy reflects our tendency to separate ourselves from the world, dividing our experiences into "me" and "the other." But what if we transcended this separation? What if we found unity and harmony amidst the chaos? Exploring the depths of this dichotomy invites us to question our attachments and aversions, to cultivate self-awareness, and to embrace the interconnectedness of all things. By understanding the subtle workings of desire and the impact it has on our perception, we can begin to navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and compassion. Let us embark on this transformative journey of self-discovery, unraveling the layers of the subject/object dichotomy to find liberation and embrace the wholeness of existence.
Watch Past Steve’s video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LZymQz_ZXaI
Introducing our difficult experiences of desire and avoidance, also known as the subject-object dichotomy
Life presents us with a tapestry of desires we seek to fulfill and circumstances we strive to avoid. This perpetual interplay shapes our perception and influences our actions, often leading to both joy and suffering. The subject-object dichotomy represents the dualistic lens through which we perceive the world, where we separate ourselves as the subject from the objects of our desires or fears. However, what if we transcended this division? What if we discovered a deeper understanding of our desires and aversions? By delving into the complexities of this dichotomy, we can gain insight into the nature of attachment, resistance, and the impact they have on our lives. Through self-reflection and mindfulness, we can navigate our desires with discernment and cultivate a greater sense of inner peace. Let us embark on this journey of self-discovery, embracing the lessons inherent in the subject-object dichotomy, and finding liberation from the clutches of desire.
Watch Pastor Steve’s YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/IJJUCTXUWt0
Solutions Found in Hinduism: Exploring the Chandogya Upanishad and TAT TVAM ASI
In the vast ocean of Hindu philosophy and spiritual wisdom, one can find profound solutions to life's challenges. Among the ancient texts, the Chandogya Upanishad shines as a guiding light. At its heart lies a transformative formula: TAT TVAM ASI, meaning "That also is You" or "You also are that." These powerful words hold the key to understanding the profound connection between our thoughts and our essence.
The Chandogya Upanishad, one of the oldest and most revered Upanishads, delves into the nature of reality and the self. Within its verses, it reveals a fundamental truth: we are not separate from the world around us or the thoughts within us. TAT TVAM ASI encapsulates this wisdom by reminding us that the quality of our thoughts defines our very being.
When we say "That also is You," we acknowledge that the essence of everything we perceive in the world is deeply interconnected with our own existence. We are not isolated individuals but interconnected threads in the tapestry of existence. The experiences, desires, and aversions we encounter are not external phenomena, but reflections of our own consciousness.
Similarly, when we say "You also are that," we recognize that the divine essence resides within each one of us. We are not separate from the universal consciousness; we are expressions of it. This realization empowers us to understand that our thoughts, beliefs, and intentions shape our reality and define our experience of the world.
TAT TVAM ASI teaches us that the quality of our thought is crucial in shaping our perception of ourselves and the world. If we harbor negative thoughts, judgments, and limitations, our experience will be clouded by negativity and suffering. On the other hand, by cultivating positive, compassionate, and expansive thoughts, we align ourselves with the divine essence within and experience a sense of harmony, joy, and love.
This profound teaching from the Chandogya Upanishad provides practical solutions for living a fulfilling and purposeful life. It calls upon us to become mindful of the quality of our thoughts and to cultivate a positive mindset. By observing our thoughts and consciously choosing those that uplift and inspire, we can shift our perception and transform our reality.
Moreover, TAT TVAM ASI encourages self-reflection and introspection. It invites us to explore the depths of our consciousness, understand the patterns and conditioning that shape our thoughts, and release any limiting beliefs or negative thought patterns that no longer serve us. Through this process, we can create space for the emergence of a higher state of consciousness and a more authentic expression of our true self.
The wisdom of Hinduism, particularly found in the Chandogya Upanishad, offers profound solutions for navigating life's challenges. TAT TVAM ASI, meaning "That also is You" or "You also are that," reminds us of the intrinsic connection between our thoughts and our essence. By recognizing the power of our thoughts, cultivating positive thinking, and engaging in self-reflection, we can transform our perception of ourselves and the world. Embracing this teaching allows us to unlock our true potential, live authentically, and experience a deeper sense of peace, love, and fulfillment.
Watch Pastor Steve’s YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/s6Po6SxZ89Y
A good solution to the problems of confusion caused by our desires and our revulsions can be found in Tibetan Buddhism, specifically in the Tibetan Book of the Dead. This text teaches non-dualistic non-attachment and how to find Buddha Mind. Buddha Mind equals Christ Consciousness
In Tibetan Buddhism, there exists a profound solution to the challenges posed by our desires and revulsions. This solution can be found in the teachings of the Tibetan Book of the Dead, a revered text that offers profound insights into the nature of reality and the path to liberation.
The Tibetan Book of the Dead teaches the principles of non-dualistic non-attachment, emphasizing the importance of transcending the subject-object dichotomy and the illusion of separateness. It guides individuals on a journey towards realizing their true nature, often referred to as Buddha Mind.
Buddha Mind, in Tibetan Buddhism, is synonymous with Christ Consciousness in the Christian tradition. It represents a state of awakened awareness, characterized by unconditional love, compassion, and profound wisdom. It is a state of being that transcends the ego and connects us to the divine essence within ourselves and all beings.
By studying the wisdom of the Tibetan Book of the Dead and embracing its teachings, we can navigate the complexities of our desires and aversions, finding a path of liberation and inner peace. It invites us to cultivate a deep sense of awareness, letting go of attachment and clinging, and embracing the inherent interconnectedness of all things.
Through the integration of these teachings into our lives, we can embark on a transformative journey, aligning our consciousness with the divine presence within us. We learn to navigate the challenges of confusion and suffering, finding liberation, and discovering the timeless wisdom that unites different spiritual traditions.
While the Tibetan Book of the Dead may have its roots in Tibetan Buddhism, its teachings have resonated with seekers from various backgrounds and spiritual traditions. It offers profound insights and practical guidance that can benefit anyone on the path of self-discovery, inner transformation, and the pursuit of truth.
As we learn about the wisdom of the Tibetan Book of the Dead, let us approach it with an open mind and heart, ready to explore its teachings and apply them to our own lives. May we find solace, clarity, and profound transformation as we journey towards a state of non-dualistic awareness, where the boundaries between self and other dissolve, and the radiant light of Buddha Mind or Christ Consciousness illuminates our path.
Watch Pastor Steve’s YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/FGq27tSb79Q
The Profound Teachings of Non-Dualistic Non-Attachment: Exploring the IAM Teachings of John
In the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, seekers often explore various ancient wisdom traditions to gain insights into the nature of existence and the path to inner peace. The teachings of non-dualistic non-attachment hold great significance in many spiritual paths, including Christianity and Buddhism. Following we’ll dive into the profound teachings of the "IAM" statements found in the Gospel of John, shedding light on the secrets of non-dualistic non-attachment and the parallel concept of Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind.
Understanding the IAM Statements: The Gospel of John contains several "IAM" statements attributed to Jesus, such as "I AM the bread of life" and "I AM the light of the world." These statements carry deep metaphysical meanings and point to a transcendent understanding of reality beyond dualistic perceptions. Exploring the symbolism and significance of these statements helps us glimpse the essence of non-dualistic non-attachment.
Non-Dualistic Non-Attachment: Non-dualistic non-attachment refers to the state of being unattached to dualistic concepts such as good vs. bad, self vs. other, or attachment vs. aversion. It invites us to transcend the limitations of egoic thinking and embrace a higher awareness that recognizes the interconnectedness of all things. The IAM teachings of John invite us to embody this state of non-attachment and embrace the transformative power it holds.
Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind: The concept of Christ Consciousness in Christianity and Buddha Mind in Buddhism share common ground in their teachings of non-dualistic awareness and transcendence. Both emphasize the path of self-realization, inner awakening, and the realization of our true nature. The teachings of Jesus and the wisdom teachings of Buddhism offer profound insights into the journey of expanding consciousness and accessing the divine within.
Unity in Non-Duality: The teachings of non-dualistic non-attachment and the parallel concepts of Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind lead us to a deeper understanding of unity. They remind us that at the core of our being, we are all interconnected and part of the same divine essence. Embracing non-duality opens the doors to compassion, love, and unity, transcending divisions and fostering a sense of harmony and peace within ourselves and with others.
The IAM teachings of John and the teachings of non-dualistic non-attachment offer a transformative path to self-realization and spiritual growth. They guide us towards embracing a higher state of consciousness, where we recognize our inherent unity with the divine and all of creation. Whether we approach it through the lens of Christ Consciousness or Buddha Mind, these teachings illuminate the secrets of non-dualistic non-attachment and inspire us to live with greater awareness, love, and compassion.
Watch Pastor Steve’s YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/2zJrxQ85K6Q
Unveiling the Subject/Object Dichotomy: Navigating Confusion in a World of Competing Desires and Aversions
In our journey through life, we often find ourselves grappling with the complexities of competing desires and aversions. This intricate web of emotions and preferences creates a state of confusion that can hinder our path to inner peace and clarity. At the heart of this confusion lies the subject/object dichotomy, a fundamental philosophical concept that explores the relationship between the observer and the observed. Following we explain the depths of this dilemma and seek to unravel its implications for our understanding of self and reality.
Understanding the Subject/Object Dichotomy: The subject/object dichotomy is rooted in the philosophical exploration of perception and cognition. It highlights the inherent duality between the subject (the perceiver) and the object (the perceived). This dichotomy suggests that our perception of the world is shaped by the distinction we create between ourselves and the external world, leading to a fragmented understanding of reality.
Unraveling Confusion and Fragmentation: The subject/object dichotomy contributes to our sense of confusion by reinforcing the belief in separateness and division. It fuels our desires and aversions, creating a constant struggle between what we want and what we want to avoid. This internal conflict perpetuates a fragmented experience of life, hindering our ability to find harmony and inner peace.
Transcending the Subject/Object Divide: To overcome the confusion stemming from the subject/object dichotomy, we must explore avenues that foster unity and interconnectedness. This involves transcending the dualistic mindset and embracing a more holistic perspective. By cultivating awareness of our interconnectedness with all beings and the world around us, we can begin to dissolve the artificial boundaries created by the subject/object divide.
Finding Harmony in Non-Dualistic Awareness: Non-dualistic awareness offers a transformative approach to navigating the subject/object dichotomy. It invites us to shift our perception from one of separation to one of interconnectedness, recognizing the underlying unity that connects all aspects of existence. Through practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and self-inquiry, we can cultivate a non-dualistic awareness that allows us to transcend confusion and find inner harmony.
Embracing Wholeness and Integration: By embracing the understanding that we are both subject and object simultaneously, we can integrate the seemingly opposing aspects of ourselves and the world. This integration invites us to embrace the full spectrum of our experiences and embrace the wisdom that arises from acknowledging our interconnected nature.
The subject/object dichotomy presents a profound challenge in our quest for clarity and peace amidst competing desires and aversions. However, by recognizing this dilemma and exploring non-dualistic awareness, we can transcend confusion and find a sense of wholeness and integration. Embracing our interconnectedness and dissolving the illusion of separation, we can navigate the complexities of life with greater ease and grace. May this exploration guide us towards a more profound understanding of self, reality, and the inherent unity that underlies our existence.
Watch Pastor Steve’s YouTube video here: https://youtube.com/shorts/tLNyGn0i-YE
Exploring the Profound Teachings of Non-Dualistic Non-Attachment in the Tibetan Book of the Dead: Unlocking the Path to Buddha Mind = Christ Consciousness
The Tibetan Book of the Dead, also known as the Bardo Thodol, is a sacred text that holds profound wisdom and teachings for those seeking spiritual enlightenment. Within its pages, we find valuable insights into the path of non-dualistic non-attachment, offering a transformative approach to attaining a state of profound awakening known as Buddha Mind, which is synonymous with Christ Consciousness. Let us embark on a journey to explore the solutions found in this ancient text, as we dive into the teachings of non-dualistic non-attachment and the path to unlocking our true nature.
Understanding Non-Dualistic Non-Attachment: The Tibetan Book of the Dead guides us to transcend the dualistic nature of our thoughts and emotions. It teaches us the art of non-attachment, releasing our grasp on fleeting desires and aversions that perpetuate suffering. By cultivating a state of non-dualistic non-attachment, we free ourselves from the limitations of egoic identification and open the doorway to the expansive awareness of Buddha Mind.
Embracing Impermanence: Central to the teachings of the Tibetan Book of the Dead is the recognition of impermanence. It invites us to embrace the transient nature of existence and detach ourselves from the illusion of permanence. Through this understanding, we learn to flow with the ever-changing currents of life and find solace in the eternal essence that transcends the temporal world.
Letting Go of Attachments: The Tibetan Book of the Dead encourages us to release attachments that bind us to suffering. It illuminates the illusory nature of our attachments and invites us to loosen our grip on material possessions, relationships, and identification with the self. By letting go, we create space for profound transformation and the realization of our interconnectedness with all beings.
The Path to Buddha Mind = Christ Consciousness: In the teachings of the Tibetan Book of the Dead, we discover the parallel between Buddha Mind and Christ Consciousness. Both concepts represent an awakened state of consciousness that transcends duality and embraces universal love, compassion, and wisdom. By integrating the teachings of non-dualistic non-attachment, we pave the way to the realization of our inherent divinity and the embodiment of Christ-like qualities.
The Tibetan Book of the Dead offers profound solutions for those seeking spiritual growth and liberation. Its teachings of non-dualistic non-attachment illuminate the path to Buddha Mind, which aligns with the concept of Christ Consciousness. By embracing impermanence, letting go of attachments, and embodying these teachings, we unlock the transformative power within us. May we find inspiration and guidance in the wisdom of the Tibetan Book of the Dead as we journey towards the realization of our true nature and the unity of Buddha Mind = Christ Consciousness.
Watch Pastor Steve’s YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/MUFDUD-dJ9U
Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind: Exploring the Profound Union
In the vast tapestry of spiritual wisdom, there are remarkable parallels between the teachings of Jesus Christ and the ancient wisdom of Buddhism. Both offer profound insights into the nature of consciousness, the path to liberation, and the awakening of the divine within. One remarkable convergence is found in the concept that Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind are two expressions of the same universal truth—a timeless wisdom that transcends religious boundaries. This article delves into the fascinating intersection of these teachings, specifically exploring the "I AM" discourses in the Gospel of John as a source of profound revelation.
Understanding the "I AM" Teachings: At the heart of the Gospel of John, we encounter Jesus' powerful declarations of "I AM." These statements go beyond mere identification; they point to an awakened state of consciousness, where the individual ego dissolves, and a profound connection to the divine is realized. In these teachings, Jesus invites us to transcend the limitations of the separate self and embrace our true essence—an essence that is eternally connected to the Divine Source.
The Essence of Christ Consciousness: Christ Consciousness represents the awakening of the divine within us—an awareness of our inherent divinity and unity with all of creation. It embodies unconditional love, compassion, and wisdom, echoing the teachings and actions of Jesus during his time on Earth. It is a state of consciousness that recognizes the divine spark in every being and the interconnectedness of all existence. By embracing Christ Consciousness, we tap into the wellspring of spiritual power that guides us toward spiritual growth, transformation, and a life of service.
The Essence of Buddha Mind: Buddha Mind, on the other hand, is a profound realization in Buddhism that encompasses awakening, enlightenment, and the transcendence of suffering. It refers to the ultimate state of consciousness where one realizes the interconnectedness of all phenomena, free from the illusions of self and ego. Buddha Mind represents a pure, undistorted perception of reality, embodying compassion, wisdom, and non-attachment. It is a state of awareness that brings liberation from the cycle of suffering and allows one to embrace the inherent interconnectedness of all beings.
The Union of Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind: When we delve into the depths of the "I AM" teachings of Jesus and the wisdom of Buddhism, we discover a profound convergence—a unity that transcends religious labels and cultural boundaries. Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind both point to the realization of our divine nature, the interconnectedness of all beings, and the liberation from the illusion of separateness. They offer us a path to transcendence, transformation, and a deeper understanding of the universal truths that underpin our existence.
Embracing the Oneness: As we explore the teachings of Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind, we are invited to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, inner peace, and spiritual growth. By cultivating unconditional love, compassion, and wisdom, we align ourselves with the divine essence within us and the interconnected web of existence. It is in this union that we find true liberation, profound purpose, and a harmonious coexistence with all beings.
The realization that Christ Consciousness equals Buddha Mind opens the door to a rich tapestry of wisdom that transcends religious dogma and reveals the universal truths that guide humanity's spiritual evolution. In embracing the teachings of Jesus' "I AM" discourses and the profound insights of Buddhism, we can awaken to our inherent divinity, embrace our interconnectedness, and embody unconditional love, compassion, and wisdom in our daily lives. May we all strive to merge the essence of Christ Consciousness and Buddha Mind within us, walking the path of enlightenment and spreading harmony and peace throughout the world. Watch Pastor Steve’s YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/t3HOoWMjmUQ
