Liberation from What, Exactly?

Humans want fulfillment, happiness, joy, etc. Ultimately, we are seeking liberation from that which keeps us from contentment. I’ve always felt this push and pull so strongly. It’s the Archetypes in my psyche playing its drama of life. 

I am a nondualist msytic, and like to compare beliefs of all faiths to compare and contrast. Language is a barrier to deep understanding, but yet I try!

In Gnostic belief, Archons are malevolent beings or entities that govern the material world and keep human souls trapped in ignorance and illusion. These intermediary rulers impede spiritual enlightenment and maintain a false reality. When modern people use the phrase “False Archonic systems,” typically to describe various societal structures and institutions—such as governments, religious organizations, financial systems, and media—as being manipulative and controlling. These interpretations suggest that such systems perpetuate ignorance, materialism, and oppression, keeping individuals from achieving spiritual freedom or true awareness. It’s much like the Rastafari perspective about Babylon as the oppressive structure. In Christianity it has come to be symbolized by an evil entity “satan” but these days, that’s an archaic way of thinking in many ways. First of all, if we cannot physically see it, then it must be an invisible force that acts through emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Secondly, how could any entity ultimately be separate than us? I know i am presupposing non-duality, and the reader may not be onboard with that, but that’s the assumption I’m making. Ultimately, there is no separation of this and that. I & I are one. 

Yogananda describes this repellant force (of satan, maya, archons, etc) as the same force that made the big bang, from unity to perceived multiplicity. We are living a play (illusion and delusion sound like put-downs!) of separation, and the function of our mind makes it very convincing that there was a past, present, and future. He describes the purpose of life as to be reunited with that supreme consciousness that we call “God”. There is, therefore, a sense of striving that comes along with that perspective. Yet, from my own experiences, forgetting (or having forgotten) is part of the narrative that had to take place, in order for the drama to unfold. Everything had to be exactly as it is. 

Liberation Ultimately Unnecessary

The phrase “As above, so below” originates from the Emerald Tablet, an ancient alchemical text attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, a legendary figure. Hermeticism has strong connections to ancient Greek and Egyptian beliefs. “As Above, So Below” reminds us of the idea that all levels of reality reflect each other, from the cosmos down to the individual, which is where “As above, so below” finds its basis. It’s thought to express that divine principles found in higher, spiritual realms also operate in the material world. This idea is key in alchemy, astrology, and other mystical traditions, and also resonates well with concepts in physics and mathematics, where we see patterns and principles that scale across different levels of reality, suggesting an underlying order to everything: Symmetry reveals that fundamental principles remain consistent across different scales, suggesting a seamless unity in the laws governing reality. Nonlocality in quantum mechanics shows that particles can remain instantaneously connected across vast distances, hinting at a hidden web of interconnectedness beyond space-time. The holographic principle suggests that the entirety of information within the universe could be encoded on a single boundary, implying that each part contains the whole—just as Nonduality suggests that each individual is inseparably part of the one. Similarly, chaos theory and sensitivity to initial conditions show how even the smallest events have far-reaching impacts, reinforcing the idea that nothing exists in isolation, as every element influences the whole in subtle, interwoven ways. Besides realizing this underlying Oneness, there is no ‘liberation’ that can take place. We are already free, and the limits we perceive are self-imposed and because of our forgetfulness, due to the complexity of the concepts that make this physical reality so convincingly real!

Gnosticism and Hermeticism share overlapping ideas about the hidden, divine truths in the universe and the microcosmic-macrocosmic connection. Gnosticism tends to emphasize spiritual liberation from the material world, while Hermeticism often sees the material and spiritual worlds as more interconnected. Both schools of thought value knowledge (or gnosis) as a path to enlightenment. Enlightenment is the sudden but gradually sustained realization that separation is ultimately an illusion, and all phenomena arise within a unified field of reality. Liberation from the illusion might not even really be necessary, because both knowing and not-knowing arise from the same unified source. The Knower, Knowing, and The Known are all one. In the state of true realization, the concepts of a “seeker” and a “goal” dissolve, as does the sense of separation. The Knower, Knowing, and the Known merge into a single, undivided awareness where all is seen as whole, timeless, and complete. This Oneness is beyond intellectual understanding, as it isn’t a matter of attaining or achieving but of simply being—being the undivided presence that includes all experiences without distinction or division. This state of realization is the source of bliss that keeps advanced Yogi’s entranced in meditation for countless hours.

A Practical Application 

Nondual insights in daily life can create a sense of inner freedom and ease. When we realize that, at a fundamental level, all is interconnected and arises from a single source, we might approach material challenges with less attachment or resistance, seeing them as temporary waves on the ocean of existence. If you’re not troubled by existential ennui, the nondual realization can eliminate fear and anxiety because there’s nothing else to win or lose. It also fosters compassion, because all is One consciousness. We then can approach situations with clarity and balance. Knowing that liberation is not needed gives us some grace during the journey. Eternity is beyond time and space, so enjoy Time~ right? However, I do like to have habits and disciplines to cultivate a sense of growth and continuous wonder, so I will actually prescribe a path forward:Yoga

Yoga: Union 

 I perceive Nondualism and the simulation theory like this: the highest boss level of consciousness (brahma) is dreaming into reality these billions of forms and complexities, and we are all experiencing it from this little-me perspective. The separation feels unbearable (to me and other spiritually inclined folks) and so we develop strategies to “free ourselves” from this 3d holographic time ‘loop’ which may be more like time itself. Time is a dimension (the 4th) and we are 3d ants walking along the 4d path. Since Brahma dreams up all the dimensions into existence and Brahma’s consciousness is within us, we can use our consciousness to jump/evolve into the next dimension up. It will be for the adventurous and disciplined (maybe?) 

The strategies that we’ve developed to cope with 3d reality through 4d are as follows, and are in no particular order of importance:

Spiritual Awakening and Consciousness Expansion through practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and energy work. As we become more sensitive and attuned to the sensations of our bodies, our connection within and without strengthens, and we perceive connections that were subtle and unnoticeable before. We seek knowledge and wisdom from various spiritual traditions and teachings to gain a broader understanding of reality, and when we find something that resonates with us, we get curious and dig deeper, committing ourselves further to a practice that is showing positive results. We follow the practice diligently to the end!

Inner Work and Self-Realization through introspection. We heal past traumas and emotional blockages through therapy, introspection, and self-care practices. Through time, we cultivate self-awareness and restore our childlike authenticity. We come to understand and gradually align with our true self and purpose.

Questioning Reality and Critical Thinking, we challenge mainstream narratives and beliefs by researching alternative perspectives and questioning societal norms, and not just on a superficial level of politics and corporate corruption. We start to take “twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder what you are” seriously as we pay attention to the anomalous lights in the sky. Amidst the adventure of deciphering fact from fiction and fancy, we develop critical thinking skills to discern truth from illusion and avoid being manipulated by deceptive systems, or duped by ignorant guesses.

Living Authentically and Ethically in a way that reflects our values and beliefs, rather than conforming to societal expectations. We regularly engage in actions that promote compassion, empathy, and positive change in the world.

Community and Connection with like-minded individuals and communities who share your values and support your growth (but isn’t an echo chamber subject to groupthink) We collaborate on initiatives and projects that aim to create a more just, equitable, and enlightened community, thereby supporting the way for the rest of society. We don’t get grandiose about what we are doing. Connection is inherently joyous and pleasant. The growth through conflict and compromise and difficult conversations makes those same situations easier and easier to manage. Through relationships, navigating community affairs, and holding each other in highest regard (because everybody is Brahma) we perfect our character, purify our hearts, and do good work that has many good fruits for all.

Health and Well-being through good attitudes and a healthy lifestyle. We are focusing on physical, mental, and emotional well-being through diet, exercise, and stress management. Our main strategy for stress management is simplifying life. By putting down the rope we’ve been pulling, by disengaging in the tug-of-war, we realize we can just be. We have done the inner work and questioned reality, and the natural progression becomes to only do what brings us joy, and not do what we hate. We do what needs to be done. In this age of information, we take joy in having the opportunity to explore holistic and alternative healing modalities to support our overall health. We can discern hoax from medicine, because it works.

Teachers Showing the Way

Padmasambhava

Also known as Guru Rinpoche, is revered as the second Buddha in Tibetan Buddhism, was a legendary figure. His teachings emphasize the importance of meditation, and the cultivation of compassion. His teachings also stress the interconnectedness of all beings and the potential for enlightenment within every individual. You can read all about this master of transformation in the following:

“The Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche”: These texts describe the various manifestations of Padmasambhava and their corresponding teachings. “The Hundred Thousand Songs of Milarepa” is said to have been Padmasambhava speaking through the Tibetan yogi Milarepa, which was later discovered by the tertön Tsangpa Gyare.

“Bardo Thodol” or “The Tibetan Book of the Dead” is traditionally attributed to Padmasambhava, it’s more accurately attributed to his disciple Karma Lingpa, who revealed it as a terma. 

“Place your mind firmly on the truth that all appearances are a magical display of the mind.”

“The perceptions of mind are illusory, empty, and insubstantial, like a dream or a mirage. They have no substance or inherent reality.”

“The secret of this world is a profound connection between mind and phenomena. Realize this, and you realize the truth.”

“If you want to know your past life, look at your present condition. If you want to know your future life, look at your present actions.” 

“Though my view is as vast as the sky, my actions and respect for cause and effect are as fine as grains of flour.”

“When you run after your thoughts, you are like a dog chasing a stick. Every time a stick is thrown, you run after it. Instead, be like a lion who, rather than chasing after the stick, turns to face the thrower. One only throws a stick at a lion once.”

Vajrasattva

Vajrasattva practice is one preparatory method to stabilize and purify the mind. The chant, visualization, and breath removes the seeds of negative actions that obscure realization. Simultaneously, the chant builds a connection to the enlightened mind of Vajrasattva and all Buddhas. Here is how you do it

Visualize Vajrasattva above your head or at your heart center, radiating pure white light. Reflect on actions causing negative karma and generate sincere remorse. Recite the following 100-syllable mantra while visualizing white nectar pouring from Vajrasattva into your body, cleansing impurities. Imagine your mind merging with Vajrasattva’s pure awareness. Dedicate the merit of your practice to all sentient beings and/or God.

Oṃ Vajrasattva Samaya Manu Palaya

Oṃ, Vajrasattva, remember your sacred commitment; protect me.

Vajrasattva Tvenopatiṣṭha

Vajrasattva, remain close to me.

Dṛḍho Me Bhava

Make me firm and resolute.

Be well pleased with me.  Make me well-nourished (spiritually fulfilled).

Anurakto Me Bhava

 Be lovingly devoted to me.

Sarva Siddhiṃ Me Prayaccha

Grant me all accomplishments (spiritual attainments).

Sarva Karma Su Ca Me

Cittaṃ Śreyaḥ Kuru Hūṃ

 Inspire my mind toward the highest enlightenment. Hūṃ!

Ha Ha Ha Ha Hoḥ

Joy, joy, joy, joy, ha! (Symbolic of ecstatic realization and transcendence. Expressing the joy of liberation and unity with Vajrasattva’s wisdom.)

Bhagavan Sarva Tathāgata Vajra Mā Me Muñca

 Blessed One, all Tathagatas, embodying the Vajra, do not abandon me.

Vajrī Bhava Mahā Samaya Sattva

Be the Vajra Holder, the great being of sacred commitment.

Āḥ Hūṃ Phaṭ

 Āḥ (clarity), Hūṃ (protection), Phaṭ (cut through delusion).