The Practical Reasons For The Two Truths

The middle way beyond extremes (the inseparability of the two truths) is the actual teaching experience of the dharma beyond concepts: words, teachings and books are not the dharma. In the moment of heightened thoughts or emotions, the empty nature of mind is clearly seen. When it feels the most uncomfortable, the “I” – the troublemaker – is illuminated.

Sometimes (all too often) teachers, students and repeaters talk in dogmatic terms, separating the two truths. They talk either from the absolute viewpoint, ignoring the relative illusion in which we are all stuck, or they limit the teaching to a carefully planned, ritual, samsaric existence: these viewpoints are both conceptual. In sentient terms, these are both unattainable and make things worse by creating subtle obstacles such as a feeling of guilt. The inner teacher can never be found this way, as we have to refer back constantly to them, and this becomes addictive.

Talking only from an ultimate point of view, we sound dogmatic, smug and superior; there is no compassion for the relative state. Our posturing covers up inadequate understanding or expression, and is meant to bully and make others feel inferior. It’s a silly game of sentient oneupmanship. No oneness, and no compassion.

Equally, those who teach from a perfect, relative perspective are also bound up in dogma, applying antidotes to emotions (such as kindness for anger) when in fact, the antidote lends a subtle reality to the emotion.We become bogged down in the ‘right’ way of life. Emotions become something from which we back away – and they have a habit of returning anyway.

I have heard so many teachers, students and repeaters talk down to others. This is a great pity as it shows zero empathy. They do not take the time to explain themselves fully, but merely repeat information and create a life style. I spent years going to retreats thinking, “Have I missed something?” when everyone nods in agreement to whatever the teacher says, and it’s assumed we know what they are taking about. This is especially evident in Vajaryana where we are supposed to just believe whatever is said and ring the bells 😉 . Vajrayana has its purpose but without thorough explanation, it’s just a numbers game.

The hallmark of an understanding that lacks compassion is how quickly people get upset, ignore the subject or turn it back on us, saying: “Ah, you’re being too critical.” Then it’s time to move on.

Of course, we live in an illusion – a conceptual world of the mind – but this is where we are at this moment.

The absolute is within this illusion.
The absolute is space; sacred space.
It is only seen when there is a flare up,
lighting that space.

If recognised, reality dawns; confusion dawns as wisdom.
Otherwise, it is just samsaric theory.

The two truths: illuminating the “I”.