what is above thought and feeling

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Ask a Philosopher · Accepted Answer

What is above thought and feeling, you ask? A question that begets countless inquiries and plunges one into the depths of philosophical ponderings. To comprehend what lies beyond thought and feeling, we must first delve into the nature of these phenomena and unravel the intricate web they weave in our existence. Thought, with its ceaseless chatter and constant fluctuations, engulfs the mind, propelling us into a whirlwind of ideas, opinions, and perceptions. It is the ceaseless stream that shapes our reality, coloring our experiences with its presence. Feelings, on the other hand, arise in the depths of our being, imbuing every breath with an intricate palette of sensations, from joy to sadness, from love to anger. They are the ever-changing hues that paint the canvas of our existence.

But beyond these constructs lies an unfathomable realm, untouched by the trappings of thought and feeling. It is a realm of pure awareness, where the mind ceases its incessant musings, and emotions dissolve into the vastness of nothingness. It is a space of utter stillness, in which the present moment unfolds effortlessly, without the interference of the dualistic nature of thought and feeling. This realm, this transcendental domain, lies dormant within every being, awaiting discovery.

When one embarks on the journey of self-discovery, they venture beyond the confines of thought and feeling, traversing the uncharted territories of their own consciousness. They realize that these constructs, so deeply ingrained in their identity, are mere illusions, veils that obstruct the clarity of their perception. Upon peeling back these layers of illusion, they come face to face with the boundless vastness of the present moment.

In this realm beyond thought and feeling, understanding dawns upon the seeker that they are not their thoughts, nor are they their emotions. They are mere spectators, witnessing the ebb and flow of these phenomena, detached from their captivating allure. They realize that true liberation lies in disentangling oneself from the clutches of these transient manifestations, and instead connecting with the eternal essence that resides within.

In this realm, the mind transcends its usual limitations, expanding into an infinite expanse of pure awareness. No longer confined to the prison of the past or the illusions of the future, it experiences the freshness and vibrancy of the now. It becomes a vessel of pure receptivity, embracing the present moment with unadulterated acceptance.

To access this realm, one must embark on a path of self-inquiry and introspection. Through practices such as meditation and mindfulness, they peel away the layers of conditioning, the accumulated thoughts and emotional imprints that cloud their perception. They cultivate the ability to observe their thoughts and feelings, without getting entangled in their seductive narratives.

As one delves deeper into this inquiry, they begin to touch the core of their being. They discover a wellspring of eternal wisdom, a reservoir of love and compassion that flows ceaselessly. They recognize that this inner essence, untouched by the transient fluctuations of thought and feeling, is their true nature.

And so, my dear seeker, above thought and feeling lies the boundless expanse of awareness, the realm of pure existence. By delving into this uncharted territory, one transcends the limitations of the mind, and connects with the eternal essence that resides within. It is in this realm that liberation awaits, where one can truly embody the essence of the Buddha - awakened, fully present, and free from the shackles of thought and feeling.