Month: April 2021
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The Poignancy Of Barrenness And Death
I didn’t see them and something felt deeply, unmistakably wrong. Two nights ago, while on a walking meditation in the backyard, Alexandra and I stopped to remark upon what appeared to be the flapping of a small wing. Alexandra also swears that she recalls hearing squawking or squeaking. Maybe we also imagined a small mouth…
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Ayam Atma Brahma
To be sure, The Upanishads, shimmering in beauty and draped in mystery, are known for their arresting formula, but the muscular directness gives to this one the feel of the highest koan: “ayam atma brahma.” That is, “The Self is Brahman.” I suggest that this formula has “the feel of the highest koan” just because…
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‘The Indication Of Your Progress Is Your Disinclination To Associate With Normal People’
Near the end of his life, Nisargadatta is in a satsang with a student who asks: “What is the yardstick to measure the progress of the seeker” (Prior to Consciousness: Talks with Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, p. 45)? His answer may surprise you. Maharaj: “The indication of your progress is your disinclination to associate with normal…
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Deft Spiritual Instruction In The Shvetashvatara Upanishad
Tucked between verses containing soaring lines on the Absolute, the Shvetashvatara Upanishad includes very practical, and sagely, spiritual instruction on how to meditate. It is worth reading closely and bears deep contemplation. Be seated with spinal column erect And turn your mind and senses deep within. With the mantram echoing in your heart, Cross over…
Andrew Taggart, Ph.D. 