Transcripts – Understanding Time and its Powers

In this episode, we will try and understand time. Time is very much part of our life, and we take it for granted. However, time is an extraordinary force, weaving its way through every aspect of our daily existence. Its influence is both immediately visible and subtly hidden, shaping our experiences in ways we may not always notice. In this discussion, we’ll delve into several facets of time’s power, highlighting how far-reaching and profound its effects truly are.

Introduction:

In classical physics, space and time were viewed as entirely separate entities, each functioning independently. Newton described space as having three dimensions, with time existing as a distinct, single dimension. However, Einstein’s Theory of Relativity transformed this perspective by demonstrating that space and time are intertwined, introducing the concept of “spacetime”—a four-dimensional continuum. Grasping four dimensions can be challenging, as our intuition is shaped by the three spatial dimensions we experience daily, while time is considered the fourth dimension. This raises questions: What exactly is the fourth dimension? Where is it, and how does it operate? To this day, modern science has not provided a comprehensive explanation for the nature of the fourth dimension. Gaining a clearer understanding of time may illuminate the concept of the fourth dimension, so let us begin by exploring time itself.

Location of the Time Dimension

Determining where time is truly located is a challenging question. Many people instinctively believe that time exists “out there” in the external world. They observe changes in objects—an object moving from point A to point B, or growing from three feet to five feet tall—and conclude that time is the driving force behind these changes. As a result, they think time is an inherent property of the space that surrounds us, operating within the three-dimensional world. But is this really the case?

While it’s accurate to say that time is responsible for the changes we perceive in the world, it’s a mistake to assume that time itself operates within external space. The world “out there” consists only of three spatial dimensions; there is no room for a fourth dimension—time—within that space. Otherwise, we would have to say that space has four dimensions. If time isn’t located in physical space, where does it reside?

Time and the Mind

To pinpoint the location of time, we must first understand its nature. Time can be broken down into three parts – Past, Present or Now and Future.

These three components make up the complete range of time. Consider this: can you actually see the past or the future in the space around you? Clearly, you cannot. The only thing you can directly perceive “out there” is the present moment. The past is gone and cannot return. Every event we experience is stored as a memory in our minds. When something moves from present to past, it is recorded in our memory, which is part of the mind. Thus, all past events exist only in the mind, even if we can’t recall every detail. Remembering something means retrieving a past event from the mind, not from the external world. This shows that past events exist solely within the mind.

As noted earlier, the external world always presents us with the “now.” The present moment is all that can be experienced “out there”; the past and future are never directly accessible. According to the Planck constant, the smallest measurable unit of time is 10raised to minus 44 seconds. Once this minuscule moment passes, the present becomes the past, replaced by a new present. The new present is not the future, because the future is not accessible “out there”. There is only the present moment “out there”. Our minds store these past events. By comparing the current present with a memory of a past event, we develop our sense of time. This act of comparison is fundamental to how we perceive time.

Imagine if we had no memory—no way to store past events in the mind. Without this ability, we couldn’t compare the present with anything that came before. We would only perceive the present, forever living in a nonmoving “now moment.” In such a scenario, time would be a meaningless concept; in fact, there would be no time. This suggests that the mind is not only necessary for the experience of time but is also its source. The mind is where time is generated and resides. Therefore, the fourth dimension—time—exists only in the mind, while space holds the three physical dimensions.

Vedanta’s concept of Time

Vedanta consistently emphasizes that time, or “kaala,” exists solely within the mind. The mind is both the origin and the place where time arises and functions. Vedanta further explains that all mental phenomena are subtle and consist of vrittis, or mental waveforms. Since it has been established that time is a product of the mind, it follows that time itself must also be a vritti – a waveform. Although it may be challenging for us to grasp or imagine the precise nature of these waveforms, what remains clear is that time is subtle, takes the form of a waveform, and resides in everyone’s mind. This particular waveform has the power for us to experience time.

Origin of Time

We now know that time is generated and is operational in the mind. This leads to a fundamental inquiry: what is the true source of time, and from where does it arise? The existence of a time waveform suggests that it must have an origin—it cannot simply materialize out of nothing.

The root of time lies in Self-Awareness. As discussed in other episodes, our essential nature is Self-Awareness, which can be thought of as an inner light or bulb of Awareness. This Self-Awareness is self-shining, full, and complete. This Self-Awareness is unborn, it is formless, and it is unchanging. In this episode, we will discuss the unchanging aspect of Self-Awareness.

The Unchanging Nature of Self-Awareness

Self-Awareness itself is constant and unalterable. It persists unchanged—now, in the past, and into the future. Unlike anything in the physical universe, which is always in flux, Awareness remains untouched by change. Examining the idea of “unchanging” more deeply reveals that time exists within this static environment, but it is inactive and motionless. Time is a latent quality, embedded within what does not change, yet it stays dormant. The unchanging nature of the entity is due to the inactivity of the time factor. If, for any reason, this “unchanging” state begins to change, time emerges from the static entity. Whenever change occurs, the present moment becomes different from what it was before, and the time factor is invoked to connect these distinct events. Essentially, time enables the transition from one event to the next. Self-Awareness remains unchanging precisely because the time aspect within it is dormant.

How Self-Awareness Becomes the Changing Mind

So, how does this unchanging Self-Awareness transform into the changing mind? The answer lies in ignorance. As we have discussed in an earlier episode “Understanding Ignorance”, ignorance can fragment the non-dual Self-Awareness, creating the duality of subject (“in here”) and object (“out there”). This same ignorance also converts the unchanging Self-Awareness into a changing mind. When this transformation occurs, the dormant time within the unchanging realm emerges and becomes active, operating within the mind. This changing part of the time waveform is the driving force of the time we know and see.

Exploring the Influence of Time Across Realms

Time is a remarkable force that threads through every part of our lives. Its presence can be obvious or quietly influential, guiding our experiences in ways we may overlook. Let us explore the various dimensions of time’s impact, revealing just how deep and extensive its reach can be.

1. Time and Objects
2. Time and Space
3. Time and Spacetime
4. Time and Motion
5. Time and Energy

Time and Objects

Both time and objects can be thought of as waveforms present within the mind. Each object, much like time itself, appears as a distinct waveform in our awareness. Do these waveforms interact? Certainly—they are constantly at play with one another, with the time waveform superimposing every object waveform within the mind. As explored in “Understanding the Universe of Waveforms,” there is a subtle universe made entirely of these waveforms. When illuminated by Awareness, these waveforms gain intelligence and self-awareness.

The inception of a new object waveform marks its t=0, which is its origin or “birthday.” From this moment forward, the time waveform acts as an engine, driving the evolution and unfolding of the object waveform’s inherent blueprint. Without time’s influence, all object waveforms would remain static and unchanged and locked in their original state. Time provides the essential energy that propels growth and transformation throughout the universe and within every object.

Every object has its own unique t=0. For example, the universe began approximately 13.7 billion years ago, while the sun’s journey started around four billion years ago. Each object’s life begins at a distinct moment, and from that point to the present, it undergoes a series of changes. With each passing moment, the object’s waveform evolves according to its blueprint and external interactions, much like a seed growing into a tree and eventually returning to the earth. The journey of a tree’s waveform, guided by time, reflects the evolution of all things. Notably, the time waveform doesn’t change the object’s fundamental nature; it simply moves it forward along its unique path. The actual changes within the object waveform result from its internal blueprint and its interactions with other waveforms.

Time and Space:

Time and space are deeply intertwined, representing two aspects of the same reality. Einstein’s Theory of Relativity demonstrates this connection, showing that the fabric of the universe links time and space together. Time is subtle and intangible, while space is physical and measurable. Although it may not be widely recognized, time gives rise to space. Time is the source of which space emerges.

Let’s experiment with how the universe’s age relates to its size. Suppose the universe is exactly 13.7 billion years old right now. This means its size is 13.7 billion light-years. A light-year is the distance light covers in a single year. One second later, the universe’s age becomes 13.7 billion years plus one second. In that second, light needs to travel an additional 186,000 miles. Therefore, the universe’s size increases by 186,000 miles, making it 13.7 billion light-years plus 186,000 miles.

After 10 seconds, the age of the universe is 13.7 billion years and 10 seconds, and the universe grows by 1,860,000 miles in size. If a whole year passes, the universe is now 13.7 billion years plus one year, and the size of the universe has increased by exactly one more light-year. 

These observations make it clear: as the universe grows older, its size increases. Every second that passes, space becomes larger by 186,000 miles. This process makes it clear that the passage of time causes the universe to expand in space; every second the universe’s space increases by 186,000 miles.

In summary, it is evident that time generates space within the universe. The continuous flow of time is responsible for the ever-expanding cosmos. Without time, space itself would not exist. This is an amazing conclusion.

Time and Spacetime

Einstein’s Theory of Relativity introduced the concept of the spacetime fabric, a fundamental layer on which all objects exist. Notably, this spacetime fabric is not composed of space itself, but rather is fundamentally constructed from time. Time serves as the very foundation of spacetime, shaping its essence.

Since time is processed within the mind, we can say that the spacetime fabric also exists primarily as a mental construct. Being formed from time, this fabric naturally has a beginning and an end. As discussed in previous episodes, the origin of this fabric lies with the observer—the mind within each of us, while its endpoint aligns with the universe’s current age, estimated at about 13.7 billion years. Thus, the fabric of time extends from the observer’s mind to the farthest reach of cosmic history, constantly expanding as time moves forward.

Every object in the universe is positioned according to its distance in time on this fabric: the sun is situated eight minutes away, the moon three seconds, and a nearby tree just milliseconds away. This arrangement demonstrates how all things are set upon this time-based foundation. Ultimately, time forms the essential fabric of our universe; without it, neither space nor the universe as we know it could exist.

Time and Motion:

Motion is everywhere in the universe. On Earth, we see people walking and vehicles—cars, trains, planes—moving from place to place. In our solar system, Earth and other planets revolve around the Sun. The Sun itself, along with countless other stars, orbits the center of the Milky Way galaxy. Even the Milky Way is in motion relative to other galaxies. Motion, it seems, is universal.

But what generates this motion? Surprisingly, the answer is time.

Einstein’s Theory of Special Relativity offers an important clue. The theory shows that wherever there is motion, time slows down. The faster an object moves, the slower its clock runs. At the ultimate limit—the speed of light—time would come to a complete stop.

At first glance, this appears to suggest that motion causes time to slow down: motion as the cause, time as the effect. However, this interpretation is misleading. The relationship is actually the reverse. Time slows down first, and this change in time creates the appearance of motion. In other words, time is not merely affected by motion—time generates motion.

This idea may seem counterintuitive, but a deeper analysis reveals that the motion we observe throughout the universe is a consequence of time itself. For a more detailed exploration of this perspective, listen to the episode “Understanding Motion: Unraveling Nature’s Greatest Illusion.”

We typically think of time as a fixed, unchanging entity. Clocks tick steadily, second after second, giving the impression that time flows uniformly everywhere. Yet, as we have seen, motion alters the rate at which time flows. Time is not absolute; it depends on speed.

Time and Energy

Einstein’s Theory of Special Relativity offers link with time and motion. Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity reveals a profound link between time and energy. According to the theory, the presence of energy causes spacetime to bend, and this curvature leads to time moving more slowly. Scientists have observed and confirmed this effect. The extent to which time slows down depends on the mass of the object creating the curvature—the larger the mass, the stronger the bending of spacetime, and the slower time passes.

If you’ve watched the movie Interstellar, you might recall the scene where astronauts visit a planet near a black hole. Although they intend to spend just 10 minutes there, due to a technical issue, they remain for an hour. Upon returning to their mother ship, they discover that 23 years have passed there. This dramatic difference occurs because the planet’s proximity to the black hole creates intense spacetime curvature, causing time to slow significantly—so one hour on the planet equates to 23 years on the ship. This illustrates that our rate of aging can vary depending on the mass of the planet we’re on; time moves more slowly on a planet with greater mass, leading to slower aging compared to a smaller planet. Though it may seem complex, this is the fascinating nature of our universe.

I hope you found this exploration of time engaging. Time possesses remarkable powers, influencing countless aspects of our daily lives. It serves as the driving force that guides every object through its life cycle, and it is fundamental to the creation of space itself. Intertwined with energy, time is also the source for the motion of all objects in the universe. Importantly, time is not a constant; it varies throughout the universe, depending on the speed and mass of objects.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into topics like this, we invite you to discover more in my book, Science Meets Vedanta, available on Amazon. Additionally, we offer a growing library of podcasts covering many different topics —feel free to browse through them at your convenience.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, we encourage you to share it with your family and friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast so you never miss an upcoming episode.

Thank you for tuning in—we look forward to connecting with you again soon!

Transcripts – Mind vs. Brain – Who’s in Charge?

In this episode, we’ll delve into the distinct roles of the brain and the mind, presenting the idea that the mind leads, directing the brain to carry out its instructions. Although this may seem counterintuitive to many, it’s often assumed that the mind is merely a byproduct of the brain—where thoughts, feelings, and perceptions originate in the brain and simply manifest in the mind, akin to a computer processing information and displaying it on a screen. According to this perspective, the brain is the active force, with the mind displaying the results.

This episode, however, invites you to reconsider that assumption. We’ll show that the mind possesses the authority, actively guiding and influencing the brain’s actions. To illustrate this viewpoint, we’ll explore several key topics.

1. The Role of the Brain

2. The Role of the Mind

3. The Origin of the Mind

4. The Origin of the Brain

5. How Mind and Brain Work Together

Role of the Brain

We all know that the brain is a tangible organ situated within the skull. It plays a pivotal role in regulating all bodily functions, acting as the central command center of the nervous system. The brain is responsible for collecting, organizing, and transmitting information throughout the body, maintaining control over the body’s organs. As the body’s most intricate organ, the brain contains approximately 86 billion neurons that communicate through complex networks, enabling the exchange of information.

Researchers assert that the brain manages and coordinates the five sense organs. For instance, in the process of perception, light reflected from an object enters the eye and reaches the retina. The retina transforms this light into a neural signal, which is then relayed to the brain for interpretation. Although the precise mechanisms of this processing remain unclear to science, the resulting information is ultimately presented to the mind for conscious experience. This general process also applies to the other senses—hearing, smell, taste, and touch—where sensory input is sent to the brain for processing and the outcome is experienced in the mind.

Based on this understanding, the brain appears to be the most vital organ in the human body, with the mind functioning as a secondary entity that experiences perceptions, thoughts, and emotions.

Missing Links in Understanding the Brain’s Role

There are many gaps remaining in the scientific explanation of the brain’s role. Here are some of the key ones.

1. We possess awareness of our perceptions, thoughts, and feelings, as well as an overall awareness of our experiences. However, it remains unclear where this awareness originates or resides. Is the brain responsible for generating awareness? If so, there is currently no scientific evidence detailing how this occurs.

2. Additionally, there seems to be an observer within us who is aware of perceptions, thoughts, and feelings. The question of who this observer is, and how it fits within the structure of the brain, remains unanswered.

To understand the role of the brain, these are critical and important questions that need an answer. We will try and answer these questions as we discuss this subject further.

The Role of the Mind

The mind is not something tangible or physical; it can neither be touched nor diagnosed by conventional means. Because of this, truly understanding the mind’s actual role proves challenging. Is the mind simply a byproduct or output device, as some scientists suggest? All our perceptions, thoughts, and emotions occur within the mind. Since science finds it nearly impossible to fully explore the mind’s function, we must seek understanding from other sources. Vedanta offers profound insights into the true nature and role of the mind.

Understanding the Three Bodies

A good way to start this discussion is to understand the three bodies. According to Vedanta, every entity in the universe is composed of three bodies: the Seed Body, the Subtle Body, and the Gross Body. The Seed Body gives rise to the Subtle Body, which in turn forms the Gross (Physical) Body.

To grasp this concept, we first consider the seed Body. Just as a tiny seed contains the blueprint for a plant, the Seed Body holds the potential or blueprint for every object. When the seed germinates, it reveals all aspects of the plant. For example, only a rose can grow from a rose seed, guided by the information within. If this logic applies to plants, Vedanta asserts it must also apply to all things both living and non-living in the universe. Every being or object has a unique Seed Body—this is the core from which everything emerges, just as a rose comes from a rose seed.

For many, the idea of a Seed Body is unfamiliar. You might wonder where to find it within yourself. Upon reflection, you can equate the Seed Body with the soul—the two are one and the same. Your soul, or Seed Body, is like a unique biodata, containing your personal history, skills, and characteristics. This seed or soul journeys with you, attaching to new bodies through successive rebirths.

When the Seed Body begins to manifest, it creates the Subtle Body, which is essentially the mind. The mind, or Subtle Body, is composed of vrittis or subtle waveforms. These waveforms represent all forms and objects in the universe, from the tiniest to the largest. Every object, including your brain and body, has a corresponding subtle waveform or vritti. This concept aligns with quantum physics, which describes all matter as having both particle and wave aspects. The “waveforms” in quantum physics closely resemble the vrittis described by Vedanta, highlighting a striking similarity between these two perspectives. Please listen to the episode “Connecting Quantum Physics with Vedanta”, where we have made a detailed connection between quantum physics and Vedanta.

In the presence of an observer—referred to in Vedanta as the Sakshi or witness—these object waveforms become tangible, gross objects. These are the concrete things we perceive in the world around us. Quantum physics similarly suggests that when a measurement device (an observer) interacts with a wave, it collapses into a particle. Once again, this parallels Vedantic teachings in a remarkable way.

The central point here is that subtle objects are preceded by gross objects, the subtle gives rise to the gross. Thus, the mind (subtle) comes before the brain (gross). In this view, the mind is the cause, and the brain is the effect—the mind creates the brain, not the other way around. This stands in contrast to the scientific perspective, which holds that the brain gives rise to the mind. However, even quantum physics lends support to Vedanta’s view: the wave precedes the particle, just as the mind precedes the brain. Therefore, the mind must come first, followed by the brain.

Origin of the Mind

To delve into the origin of the mind, we must first explore our innermost essence. According to Vedanta, this core is Self-Awareness—a radiant source within us, much like a bulb emitting pure Awareness. This Self-Awareness doesn’t actively do anything; it simply shines Awareness. For a deeper exploration, refer to the episode “Understanding Self-Awareness.” Here, we’ll summarize the main ideas.

Awareness itself consists of three foundational aspects: Subject, Object, and Intelligence. Alongside these, there are corresponding powers—Knower, Known, and Knowing. The Subject embodies the Power of the Knower, the Object holds the Power of the Known, and Intelligence carries the Power of Knowing.

It’s crucial to recognize that these components—Subject, Object, Intelligence—and their respective powers are not external phenomena. Instead, they exist within the fabric of Awareness, forming its very structure. For instance, as you listen to this episode, your Awareness encompasses the Subject, Object, and Intelligence involved in the experience. The listener within you is the subject, the words you are hearing are the objects and the intelligence is decoding the words so that listener can understand. Whenever you are aware, these elements and powers are active within you.

1. The Power of the Knower transforms Awareness into a Subject—such as a reader, listener, observer, speaker, or eater. This Subject is also known as the Observer, Sakshi or witness of everything happening in the mind.

2. The Power of the Known shapes Awareness into objects perceived by the five senses, similar to molding Play-Doh into different forms. This power allows Awareness to take the shape of any object.

3. The Power of Knowing, representing Intelligence, contains all potential knowledge within Awareness. It is through this power that knowledge is accessed and applied. For example, seeing a tree involves the power of sight decoding the tree’s signal and adding understanding, while listening to music uses the power of hearing to interpret and make sense of the sounds. This process enables you to become aware of what you see or hear.

Awareness and Seed Body

As we have seen, Self-Awareness is like a bulb within each person, emitting Awareness that encompasses these three remarkable powers. But who receives the radiance of Awareness? The answer is: the Seed Body. Every living being, including you and me, has a Seed Body, which is synonymous with the soul. When Awareness passes through the Seed Body, it creates the mind.

The mind, therefore, is an extraordinary tool. It contains Awareness and all its powers, enabling us to perceive, understand, and interact with the world on multiple levels. Isn’t it incredible that the mind within us possesses these powers of Awareness? Yet, sadly, much of its potential remains concealed by our own ignorance.

 Origin of the Brain

We have just explored how the powers of Awareness, channeling through our soul or Seed Body, give rise to the mind. These powers make the mind an incredibly potent tool. Having understood the mind’s source, let’s now turn our attention to the origin of the brain.

The brain belongs to the Gross Body and has a distinctly different beginning. So, what is the origin of the Gross Body? The correct answer is that it originates in the mother’s womb, where a single cell develops into a complex body with countless parts. The brain’s development is an integral part of this physical growth.

The Garbha Upanishad, a fascinating ancient text, provides details on the timeline and process by which the body’s various parts form in the womb—such as when the hands and heart appear. Based on this text, it seems that the fetus, in its early stages, is simply a developing part of the body, devoid of personality, ego, or the sense of “I.” In essence, it is a piece of flesh growing inside the mother.

However, the Upanishad notes that, around the seventh month, the Seed Body or soul enters the fetus. This is the pivotal moment when consciousness awakens. The fetus receives a mind, and with it, intelligence flows into the brain, activating its functions. Neurons begin to fire, which in turn activate various body parts. The brain now serves as the central hub, orchestrating the functions of all bodily systems through the nervous system.

The key takeaway is that while the mind is formed by the soul or Seed Body. The brain which is part of the Gross Body—arises from external sources, namely the parents’ cells. Yet, once they are united, the mind and body work together seamlessly, functioning as a harmonious whole.

How Mind and Brain Work Together

The mind is an incredible instrument, encompassing Awareness and a multitude of its powers. According to Vedanta, there exists a vast cosmic mind that comprises all individual minds. Within this cosmic mind are the vrittis, or subtle waveforms, representing every possible object and experience. Together, these waveforms merge into one intricate cosmic pattern that embodies the entirety of the universe.

When infused with intelligence from Awareness, these waveforms are conscious and dynamic. The mind is a hub of constant activity, with these intelligent waveforms continuously interacting and influencing one another. This creates a fully functioning universe of subtle vibrations all contained within the mind, though we are generally unaware of their existence because they are not tangible—rather, they are subtle phenomena. For a deeper dive, consider listening to the episode “Understanding the Universe of Waveforms.” Every event, big or small, first arises in the mind before manifesting in the physical world; even the tiniest action is initiated in the subtle realm of thought.

So, what purpose does the brain serve? The brain’s primary function is to interpret and act upon the mind’s instructions, enabling our physical bodies to operate in the material world. For instance, imagine feeling hungry late at night—the mind sends messages to the brain to stand up, walk to the fridge, and get food. The brain then orchestrates this by activating the necessary muscles and coordinating movement, much like a sophisticated control center. It directs the body to rise from the chair, guides the legs toward the fridge, signals the hands to open it and retrieve food, and tells the mouth to eat. In many ways, the body operates like an advanced robot, responding to these intricate commands. This interaction between the mind and brain happens daily on a continuous basis.  

1. Perception, emotions, and feelings all originate in the mind and are later processed by the brain. The brain contains specialized regions dedicated to various functions—such as vision, hearing, and coordination with different body systems. Communication between the mind and brain occurs via billions of neurons, which act as messengers transmitting information back and forth. When the mind formulates an intention or directive, neurons relay this data to the corresponding areas of the brain.

2. Distinct groups of neurons then organize and synchronize the brain’s activities to fulfill the mind’s instructions. For actions to be carried out, the brain dispatches signals through the nervous system to the appropriate organs and body parts. The complexity of this system is truly remarkable; it’s astonishing how seamlessly our intentions are translated from the mind into physical action by the brain. All this intelligence springs from our deepest essence—Self-Awareness—reminding us to appreciate the profound intelligence at our core.

I hope this discussion provided valuable insights into the relationship between the mind and the brain. We explored how the mind directs the brain’s activities, rather than the commonly held scientific view that the brain governs the mind. The mind, endowed with awareness and intelligence, initiates all actions in its subtle realm before transmitting instructions for the brain to carry out in the physical world. While the brain is an incredibly intricate organ responsible for coordinating and controlling the body’s various functions, it operates under the guidance of the mind.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into topics like this, we invite you to discover more in my book, Science Meets Vedanta, available on Amazon. Additionally, we offer a growing library of podcasts covering many different topics —feel free to browse through them at your convenience.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2522489

If you enjoyed today’s episode, we encourage you to share it with your family and friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast so you never miss an upcoming episode.

Thank you for tuning in—we look forward to connecting with you again soon!

Audio Recording of Episode

Transcripts of Principles of Karma Yoga

In this episode, we delve into the subject of Karma Yoga, a fundamental aspect of Vedanta teachings. Of all the spiritual paths described in the scriptures, Karma Yoga is particularly notable for its role in fostering inner peace and mental clarity. It acknowledges the inevitability of action in our lives and recognizes that the results of our actions can often bring about stress and dissatisfaction. By practicing Karma Yoga, we learn to transform our attitude and approach toward each action we undertake.

Karma is commonly understood as action, while yoga, in this context, refers to practice. Therefore, Karma Yoga can be described as the practice of action. The intention behind practicing Karma Yoga is to cultivate inner peace and purify the mind.

The Bhagavad Gita is unique among the scriptures for its comprehensive and profound exploration of Karma Yoga. Although Bhagavad Gita covers many themes, its central and most significant teaching is undoubtedly Karma Yoga. Drawing from the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita, this episode will address two key aspects of Karma Yoga:

1. The true meaning of Karma.
2. The attitudes one should adopt in practicing Karma Yoga.

The true Meaning of Karma?

To carry out any action, or Karma, two elements are required: a subject who acts and an object upon which the action is directed. In this context, the subject is ego, and the objects that represent different things or situations. Naturally, whenever the Ego encounters an Object, it must respond; remaining passive is not an option.

All living beings, down to the single-cell level, are hardwired to respond in this way as part of their genetic programming. For instance, a single cell will recoil from vinegar but move closer to sugar, demonstrating attraction or repulsion based on its reaction to the stimulus. Essentially, the Ego reacts to the Object by either liking or disliking the presented object. This fundamental duality—like/dislike, attraction/repulsion, positive/negative—drives the Ego, or the ‘I am’, to perform Karmas. This principle applies universally to all forms of life, regardless of their complexity. Even humans are compelled to react in every situation; remaining completely still is not possible.

It’s important to distinguish that the mere interaction between Ego and Object isn’t Karma itself. Rather, Karma is found in the response of liking or disliking. Understanding this distinction is crucial. Below are some examples to illustrate this point more clearly.

• Many believe that the act of talking itself is Karma. However, speech is simply a natural function of the human body. Karma arises only when you speak with a positive or negative intention about someone—that is, when the ego is involved in making a judgment or causing harm or benefit.
• Walking is a natural action and does not, in itself, constitute Karma. If, while walking, you intentionally step on an insect, that intentional act is Karma. If you accidentally step on an insect without awareness, it is not Karma, since there is no involvement of the ego.
• Having ears means you naturally hear sounds around you. Simply hearing the ambient noise, such as in an airport lounge, is not Karma. However, if you become irritated by the noise, this emotional response—this irritation—involves the ego and thus becomes Karma.
• Observing the world around you is a natural process. You cannot help but see what is in front of you. But when you judge what you see—perhaps thinking someone’s shirt is ugly or someone else looks attractive—those judgments are Karmas, as they arise from the ego’s response.

Every action the ego undertakes, whether liking or disliking, leads to a consequence. In Vedanta, this outcome is known as Karma Phala, meaning the “fruit” of your actions. Similarly, science illustrates this principle through Newton’s third law: “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” Whatever you do will inevitably produce a result; it’s a fundamental rule of nature. This idea has been explored in detail in the episode “Doctrine of Karma”. Please listen to this whenever you have the time.

When the results of your actions align with your expectations, you experience happiness. However, when things don’t go as planned, feelings like disappointment, anger, or frustration can arise. The key is learning to accept all results—good or bad—with calmness and balance. This ability to remain steady regardless of the outcome is at the heart of Karma Yoga.

Prerequisites for Practicing Karma Yoga

Grasping Karma Yoga goes beyond mere theory; it is essential to integrate its principles into our everyday lives. To truly embrace Karma Yoga, one must cultivate the right foundation. This readiness is achieved by fulfilling key prerequisites, ensuring that we are open and prepared to receive its wisdom.

Embracing Positive Values

Establishing and adhering to a set of positive values is fundamental. This includes being honest, maintaining sincere work ethics, showing respect to parents, caring for family members, engaging with children, and supporting friends in times of need. Although many people live by these principles and may believe they are practicing Karma Yoga, these actions are not Karma Yoga itself. Instead, they serve as the minimum baseline required before one can begin the journey of Karma Yoga. Without these positive values as part of daily life, genuine assimilation of Karma Yoga remains out of reach.

Living According to Dharma

Dharma represents a central pillar of the Hindu tradition, with ‘Ahimsa’—the practice of causing the least harm physically, mentally, or spiritually—at its heart. In addition, duty and responsibility are vital aspects of Dharma. Integrating these core values into everyday decisions is crucial; before acting, one should reflect on whether the action aligns with Dharma. Only actions that pass this test should be pursued, making Dharma the guiding principle of one’s life. However, living by Dharma is not the same as practicing Karma Yoga. It is the essential groundwork required for spiritual growth and the first step on the path to Karma Yoga.

The attitudes one should adopt in practicing Karma Yoga.

The correct approach is to convert all ordinary actions to spiritual practice. This is the underlying principle of Karma Yoga. What is this approach which will help you to do your daily mundane activities with a prayerful and devotional attitude?

Parts of Chapter 2 and Chapter 3, 4, 5 and 18 from Bhagavad Gita focus on Karma Yoga.  In the following paragraphs, we’ll summarize some of the key teachings of these chapters.

1. Karma Phala Data (Giver of the Fruits of Action)

Who gives the Fruits of our Actions? Understanding this is the core value of Karma Yoga. Chapter 2, Verse 47 explains this concept brilliantly. This is one of the most quoted verses in the Bhagavad Gita

“You have the authority or control on the action you do, but you have no authority or control on the results of the action”

This is a profound and universal truth. It is applicable to everyone and to every action we undertake. We can only do action, but we have no choice or control over the results. This sounds like an obvious statement to make.  But how often do we undertake any action without any expectation of what the result will be? But here we can acknowledge that we don’t have any control over what the results of our actions will be. 

The question is who decides or controls these results. The Bhagavad Gita teaches us that it is Ishwara, or God who decides the results. Does that mean Ishwara is judgmental and uses His own likes and dislikes to pass judgment? The answer is No. Ishwara has a Will but it is unlike the human will, it has no likes and dislikes. Ishwara’s Will is the Law of Nature. Ishwara controls this universe through the Laws of Nature. Once these laws are set in motion, Ishwara does not do anything. The results you are getting now are based on pending phalas (fruits) of your past actions. It is not arbitrary.

You are the Karma Karta (Doer or agent of action), while Ishwara is the Karma Phala Data (the giver of the Results of action). This devotional attitude is the first right step in Karma Yoga.

2. Prasada Buddhi (Attitude of Gift Receiving)

Even if you accept Ishwara to be the Karma Phala Data or Giver of Results, it is not easy to accept the results. We all know very well, if the outcome of any action is not as per our expectation it causes frustration and irritation. Negative emotions dominate and lead to unhappiness. We usually want things our way. In many cases this does not happen. This inner conflict is the major source of turmoil in the mind.

How to change our attitude to overcome these shortcomings? For this, Karma Yoga teaches the concept of Prasada Buddhi. You could say it is the perfect solution. Buddhi, in this case, means Attitude. Prasada has no exact translation, it could mean God’s Blessing. When we go a temple, after we offer our prayers, the priest will give us a Prasada of dry fruits which has been blessed by Ishwara. When we receive this prasada of dry fruits, we receive them with humility and love. We bow our heads when we receive this Prasada because we know it has come from Ishwara.

In life too, we should receive the results of our actions as if we have received a Prasada from Ishwara.  We accept the results of all our actions with humility, gratitude and love.  This attitude of acceptance is called Prasada Buddhi.

If you can cultivate this attitude to all things in life, we can lead a life that is peaceful and calm, whatever up and downs life might bring. 

3. Gaining Equanimity

Once you understand that Ishwara is the Karma Phala Data, and that everything that you receive in life is a Prasada, we should be able accept the results of our actions with equanimity. This is easier said than done. On the surface, we may accept the outcomes, but deep down we are still unhappy about the bad results. So how do we cultivate equanimity?

The best way to cultivate this attitude is to elevate our motivation factor or upgrade our attachment to spiritual growth. What does this mean? Think of the various attachments you have formed as you journeyed through life – as kids we were attached to toys, then as we grew up, we formed new attachments, like reading books or playing sports. As you can see, when we get a new attachment, the previous attachment is reduced or disappears. If this is correct, we should change our lifestyle and make spiritual growth our primary focus of attachment, so that other attachments can be negated. This way we can accept negative or positive outcomes with equanimity because we are no longer attached to these expectations

A devotional or spiritual lifestyle is only way you can gain equanimity in life.    

4. Ishwara Arpana Buddhi (Attitude of Offering to God)

Arpana Buddhi is the attitude of offering our actions to Ishwara. Both Prasada Buddhi and Arpana Buddhi are complementary. One is receiving and the other is giving.

To understand Arpana Buddhi you must understand the concept of Yagna in ancient India. Yagna was conducted for thanking Ishwara for the blessings received. The main motivation is to thank Ishwara and acknowledge that everything happens because of Ishwara. The rain is because of Ishwara, the heart beating without resting is a blessing from Ishwara. There is nothing in the universe which is not due to Ishwara. Yagnas was one way of ‘paying back’ for all the blessings received in life.

Everything belongs to Ishwara. So what is it that you can really offer Ishwara? The only thing you can offer is your actions. This is Arpana Buddhi. You do all actions as a dedication to Ishwara, you offer your actions with love and affection to Ishwara. Any action is done with a prayerful attitude, even mundane daily activities. If you are offering all your actions to Ishwara, there is little chance that you will act against Dharma.

All your actions (Arpana Buddhi) are done with a prayerful attitude and, all results thereof are also to be accepted (Prasada Buddhi) with a prayerful attitude. This is the core of Karma Yoga.

5. No Hidden Agenda

It’s common for people to act in pursuit of their own desires and self-satisfaction. Even when someone performs an act of charity, which is undoubtedly noble, there’s often a sense of personal fulfillment that follows. This feeling can be seen as a form of attachment. Whether we care for others or take positive action, our underlying motivation may often be personal satisfaction, revealing a subtle, hidden agenda in many of our actions. According to the Bhagavad Gita, even the most noble deeds can become obstacles to spiritual growth if they are performed with such hidden motives.

If we seek spiritual progress, we should remember that Ishwara’s divinity exists in every living being. Therefore, our actions toward others ought to be carried out with the same humility and devotion as if we were serving Ishwara directly. While this approach is challenging, the first step is to recognize that everyone is a manifestation of Ishwara. By making spiritual growth our primary goal, our actions will naturally align with the principles of Karma Yoga, allowing us to act without hidden agendas. Helping and caring for others then becomes an expression of duty and Dharma, rather than a pursuit of personal satisfaction.

Benefits of Practicing Karma Yoga

Practicing Karma Yoga in our daily lives offers a range of profound benefits. Here, we will briefly explore some of the most significant advantages.

Freedom from Accumulating Karma

As discussed earlier, we are driven to act by our likes and dislikes, and every action (Karma) we perform yields results that bind us to a continuous cycle of cause and effect. According to the Bhagavad Gita, when we act with the spirit of Karma Yoga—dedicating our actions to Ishwara —we do not accumulate new Karmas. In this selfless state, it is as though Ishwara is acting through us, dissolving our sense of personal doership. While complete surrender to Ishwara may seem challenging, even striving toward this attitude can bring inner tranquility and reduce mental turbulence. Adopting the Karma Yoga mindset helps us face life’s highs and lows with steadiness and peace.

Purification of the Mind

Our minds are often clouded by impurities like desire, jealousy, anger, and selfishness—obstacles that the Bhagavad Gita describes as our greatest enemies. The practice of Karma Yoga offers a way to overcome these tendencies by encouraging us to act with devotion and humility, accepting outcomes gracefully. When we prioritize spiritual growth and consistently approach our actions with a prayerful attitude, these mental impurities gradually dissolve. As a result, our minds become more peaceful, clear, and free of inner conflict.

Pathway to Liberation (Moksha)

The ultimate aim of human life, according to spiritual teachings, is moksha—liberation from suffering and the endless cycle of birth and death. Moksha is achieved when the ego, which is rooted in ignorance, is dissolved in the realization of the true Self. This self-knowledge can only be deeply assimilated when the mind is pure. By practicing Karma Yoga, we purify the mind, making it receptive to higher wisdom and paving the way for true liberation. Thus, the most vital benefit of Karma Yoga is that it sets us firmly on the journey toward the highest spiritual goal: moksha.

We hope you find this exploration about Karma Yoga insightful and useful. It is important to recognize that we create Karma only when we attach likes and dislikes to the situations we encounter. Unless we actively strive to break free, we remain trapped in this cycle of suffering. Approaching this challenge with the right mindset is essential. Karma Yoga with the emphasis on cultivating the attitudes of Prasada Buddhi and Arpana Buddhi will help to perform every action with a sense of prayerful devotion; our minds will gradually become purified.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into topics like this, you will discover more in my book, Science Meets Vedanta, available on Amazon. Additionally, we offer a growing library of podcasts covering many different topics —feel free to browse through them at your convenience.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, we encourage you to share it with your family and friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast so you never miss an upcoming episode.

Thank you for tuning in—we look forward to connecting with you again soon!

Audio Recording of Episode

Transcript – Connecting Quantum Physics and Vedanta

At first glance, quantum physics and Vedanta may seem to occupy entirely separate realms. Quantum physics is firmly rooted in the scientific tradition, while Vedanta is often viewed as a spiritual philosophy. On the surface, these disciplines appear to deal with very different subjects. However, today we will explore how quantum physics and Vedanta intersect in many intriguing ways.

If you are familiar with quantum physics, you are likely aware with the concepts of the “observing system” and the “observed system.” In essence, the observing system refers to the measurement system or observer that performs the observation, while the observed system is what is being measured or watched.

In Vedanta, there are parallel concepts. The terms “observer” (often referred to as sakshi or witness in Sanskrit) and “observed” (sometimes called prakriti or Nature) are frequently used. The observer and observed are integral part of Awareness, which we have discussed in many different episodes.

The observer system and observing system in quantum physics and observer and observed in Vedanta are so uncanny similar, it leads to conclusion that there must be some deep connection between Quantum physics and Vedanta.

However, the way these terms are understood and applied in quantum physics is actually quite limited and specific. In contrast, Vedanta offers a much broader perspective on the concepts of observer and observed. In fact, as we will demonstrate, the Vedantic understanding of these terms encompasses and extends beyond the definitions used in quantum physics. The interplay between these two fields reveals a fascinating convergence of ideas about the nature of reality, and perception.

Quantum Physics and Waves

Quantum physics began to take shape at the start of the 20th century when scientists discovered that light doesn’t behave strictly as a wave or as a particle—instead, it exhibits characteristics of both. Sometimes, light acts like particles, and at other times, it behaves like waves. This remarkable revelation laid the foundation for a new way of understanding the physical world.

The concept was expanded by Louis de Broglie, a French doctoral student, who proposed that not only light but all matter—everything from people and planets to cars and rocks—possesses both wave-like and particle-like properties. In other words, every object in the universe, whether living or nonliving, can be described as both a wave and a particle. De Broglie’s hypothesis was confirmed through experiments in 1927, solidifying the idea that all matters exhibit this dual nature. If you have time, please listen to my episode “Quantum Physics—Overview”, where we have given a good overview on quantum physics.

I am sure you will agree that science has always been focusing on investigating the particle aspect only. There’s very little focus on understanding the wave part of the particle wave duality. So that’s where the limitation of science comes, because they don’t talk very much about the wave part. But everyone agrees, and as per the De Broglie’s hypothesis, that every matter in the universe has particle property and a wave property.

Schrodinger’s Wave Equation

In 1925, Erwin Schrodinger introduced a mathematical equation to help describe the wave behavior of matter. Known as Schrodinger’s wave equation, this powerful formula can be used to represent all possible wave functions for objects in the universe. It serves as a universal tool to understand the wave side of the duality and can be applied to any physical system.

Schrodinger’s equation models a physical system by considering two essential components:

1. Observed system: The object or phenomenon being studied.
2. Observing system: The apparatus or observer making the measurement.

By examining both the observed and observing systems, Schrodinger’s wave equation provides a framework for exploring the wave-like nature of all “matter”.

1. Understanding the Observed System

In quantum mechanics, every object can be described as a wave. This wave is mathematically represented by Schrodinger’s wave equation, which provides a detailed description of how the object’s energy changes over time. Physicists have successfully applied this equation to subatomic particles such as electrons, photons, and molecules, allowing them to understand and predict their behavior. However, when it comes to larger, everyday objects like humans, vehicles, or planets, their wave functions become much more complex. The variables involved are so complex and intricate that it becomes extremely challenging to derive the Schrodinger’s equation for such macro-objects. Despite this limited understanding, theoretically, every object in the universe has a corresponding Schrodinger wave equation.

Probability and the Schrodinger Wave Function

The Schrodinger wave function can be transformed into a probability wave function by squaring it. This probability function holds all the possible outcomes for the system in question. A classic illustration of this concept is the “Schrodinger’s cat” thought experiment. In this scenario, a cat is placed inside a sealed box along with a vial of poison connected to a random atomic trigger. Until the box is opened and observed, there is no way to know whether the cat is alive or dead. According to the probability function derived from Schrodinger’s equation, the cat can be alive, dead, or even in a superposition of both states, such as half alive and half dead, or in other combinations. Theoretically, there are infinite possible states.

2. Role of the Observing System in Schrödinger’s Wave Equation

A crucial element in understanding Schrödinger’s wave equation is the concept of the observing system. When the observing system interacts with the system being observed, it causes the wave function of the observed system to collapse into a single, definite outcome at that moment in time. For example, consider the Schrödinger’s cat thought experiment. If you open the box to check on the cat, you will find the cat either alive or dead. If the cat is alive, all other outcomes immediately become impossible—only the observed outcome remains.

In other words, the act of observation forces the system to choose one possible state from many, and all other possibilities become zero for that instant. Until the box is opened, the cat’s condition exists as a wave function representing a range of potential states. Once the box is opened by an observer, the wave function collapses, and the cat is found in one particular state—such as alive—with all other possibilities eliminated.

This demonstrates that the collapse of the wave function only occurs when an observing system is present and interacts with the observed system. Without observation, the system remains in a wave function with multiple possibilities. Before observation, the system behaves like a wave; immediately after observation, it transitions to a single state of being a particle. In other words, the wave state always comes first, and it collapses to the particle state in the presence of an observing system.

With a foundational understanding of Schrödinger’s wave function, several thought-provoking questions naturally arise:

Question 1: Where does the wave function reside?

Is it situated externally in the physical world, or does it exist internally, perhaps within our mind? The wave function cannot be located inside the particle itself, because particles only manifest after the wave function collapses upon observation. Since the wave function comes before the appearance of particles, it cannot be contained within them. Therefore, it seems the wave function must exist outside the world of particles.

Question 2: What are the waves made of?

While waves are mathematically described, their physical substance remains mysterious—surely, they must be composed of something rather than nothing.

Question 3: What is the propagation medium for the quantum wave?

Waves generally require a medium to travel through. The historical concept of the “ether” as a universal medium for light was dismissed by experiment. So, what underlies the propagation of these quantum waves?

Question 4: What is Nature of the Observing System in Quantum Physics?

Quantum physics offers little clarity about what truly constitutes the observer or the observing system. In most cases the observing system is a measurement device which is typically composed of matter. This device is said to collapse the wave function of the system being observed. This raises a fundamental question: what power does “matter” possess to collapse a wave function, or is there another entity that actually has the power to transform a wave function into a particle?

Exploring the Concepts of Observed and Observer Through Vedanta

To begin answering these important questions, it is beneficial to first examine how Vedanta defines the terms “observed” and “observer.” Doing so will offer greater clarity about their relationship and assist in addressing the earlier questions.

The Nature of Observed Waveforms in Vedanta

Vedanta teaches that every object perceived by the mind appears as a distinct mental waveform called a vritti. These vrittis are not simply theoretical constructs; rather, they are actual patterns or vibrations within the mind, each representing a specific object. According to Vedanta, vrittis are sentient—they possess knowledge and intelligence, drawing their essence from pure Awareness itself. Please listen to the episode “understanding Self-Awareness” to get good understanding on the powers of Awareness and how the vrittis or object waveforms become sentient.  

Vedanta suggests that the waveforms of all individual objects combine to form a single, all-encompassing waveform – the grand universe waveform. It contains everything, nothing is left out.

Role of the Observer

Vedanta asserts that there is an Observer—a conscious witness—who perceives all activity within the mind. Let us try and understand the role of the observer. Suppose you are seeing a tree in front of you. Since you observe this tree, the physical tree must be a particle. If you turn your back to the tree, what happens? You don’t see the tree anymore. So what format is the tree in? Obviously, it cannot be a particle because you don’t see it anymore. If it is not a particle, then the tree must be in wave format. This may seem strange, but this is the only logical explanation.

When you start looking at the tree again, the tree again becomes a particle. From this example it does seem that the observer is the minimum prerequisite which is needed to view a particle. Only in the presence of an Observer can you see a physical particle, otherwise it remains in as a waveform. The Observer is needed to transform an object vritti into a physical object.  

Who is this Observer that can transform a wave into a tangible object? As we’ve explored in numerous discussions, the Observer is an expression of Awareness. Awareness itself is the most potent force in the universe. Whenever a wave-like object encounters Awareness, Awareness permeates that object’s waveform, enabling the Observer to experience its particle form. Therefore, it is the Observer, empowered by Awareness, who possesses the ability to collapse a waveform into a particle.

Connecting Quantum Physics and Vedanta

Quantum physics and Vedanta, though originating from vastly different traditions, offer intriguingly similar perspectives on the nature of reality.

In quantum physics, Schrodinger’s wave function describes a physical system that includes both the observed object and the observer system. Before measurement, the system exists as a waveform—a probability distribution representing micro- or macro-objects. When an observer system interacts with the wave function, this waveform “collapses,” and the object assumes a definite state, appearing as a particle.

Vedanta teaches that the mind itself is a collection of waveforms, known as vrittis. The observer in the presence of Awareness creates the physical world outside, much like the quantum collapse that produces particles.

Parallel Concepts: Wave Functions and Vrittis

This analogy suggests that Schrodinger’s wave function could be seen as a mathematical description of the processes occurring within the mind. Both frameworks, quantum physics and Vedanta, describe the transformation from potentiality (waveforms) to actuality (particles or experiences) through the act of observation.

With this understanding, let us see if we can answer the questions which were raised earlier in the overview of Schrodinger’s wave equation.

Answer 1: Where Does the Wave Function Exist?

The question of where the wave function exists remains one of the most profound mysteries in science. As previously discussed, the wave precedes the particle in quantum phenomena. Since waves cannot be housed within particles, and the observable universe is composed of particles, it follows that waveforms cannot reside within them. The most logical conclusion is that these waveforms exist within the mind. This perspective suggests that quantum waves are, in essence, mental waves—also referred to as vrittis. In this view, mental waves and quantum waves are fundamentally the same. Please listen to episode “Understanding the universe of Waveforms” for an in-depth explanation.

Answer 2: What are these waveforms made of?

At their core, these waveforms are composed of knowledge and intelligence. Since awareness exists within the mind, and intelligence and knowledge are intrinsic to awareness, the waves—when present in awareness—gain their structure from intelligence. This means the waves are self-aware and capable of interacting with other waves through the attributes of knowledge and intelligence.

Answer 3: What underlies the propagation of these quantum waves?

The mind inherently possesses awareness—it is a fundamental aspect that is always present. Quantum wave functions propagate within this field of awareness. As these waves vibrate, they interact with awareness itself, which serves as the medium for their propagation. In essence, awareness is the underlying medium that enables the interaction of quantum waves within the mind.

Answer 4: What Truly Constitutes the Observing System?

To understand what constitutes the observing system, we must examine what gives a measuring device the power to trigger the collapse of a wave into a particle. When we look closely at the measuring device itself, we find that it exhibits both wave and particle properties. This duality raises the question: who or what is responsible for collapsing the wave aspect of the measuring device?

One might suggest that it is the human eye that collapses the wave. However, the eye also possesses both wave and particle characteristics. Extending this logic further, we might argue that the brain is responsible for collapsing the waveform. Yet, the brain also has wave and particle properties.

Ultimately, the only place where the wave can truly collapse is within the observer—within the awareness that resides in you. It is this inner observer, the conscious awareness, that holds the power to collapse the wave. No material object, regardless of its nature, possesses this capability. The unique power to collapse the wave resides solely in the observer, which is an aspect of awareness.

We hope you find this exploration of the connections between Quantum Physics and Vedanta insightful. It is truly remarkable to consider that Schrödinger’s wave equation may correspond to the wave-like functions occurring within the mind. According to this perspective, the vrittis—mental modifications described in Vedanta—can be seen as analogous to Schrödinger’s wave equation. In this way, Vedanta and Quantum Physics seem to be speaking a common language, offering a fresh perspective for understanding Quantum Physics.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into topics like this, we invite you to explore our blog at Vedanta and Science dot com or discover more in my book, Science Meets Vedanta, available on Amazon. Additionally, we offer a growing library of episodes covering many different topics —feel free to browse through them at your convenience.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, we encourage you to share it with your family and friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast so you never miss an upcoming episode.

Thank you for tuning in—we look forward to connecting with you again soon!

Solving a Mystery of Space!

Let me begin by making a bold statement. The starting point of space and the end point of space are at the same location. Yes, that is correct. The exact location of both the start and the end point of space is within us, right within our innermost core. This seems counterintuitive. We all know that the outer edge of the universe is far away; scientists tell us that it is 13.7 billion years away. Light takes 13.7 billion years to reach us from the outer edge. It is that far. If this is so, how can the outer edge be present within our innermost core? That is what is so fascinating and mysterious about space. In this essay, we will try to understand this. We will use logic and scientific ideas to show that both the start and end point of space are within us.

To do this, it is critical to properly understand the framework of space. Unfortunately, there is confusion regarding this. So much is known about space, but still much is unknown. We have discussed this subject in many essays in my book, Science Meets Vedanta. This idea of both the starting and the end point of space being at the same location is a revelation for me. I am therefore excited to discuss the topic in this essay.

With this objective, let us start the discussion with the following two topics:

1. Where Is the Starting Point of Space?
2. Understanding the Outer Edge of Space

Where Is the Starting Point of Space?

Most people will answer that the Big Bang is the starting point of space. This is not an accurate statement. Scientists tell us that the Big Bang happened about 13.7 billion years ago. Yes, the Big Bang was the starting point of space 13.7 billion years ago, but it is no longer so. At this moment, the Big Bang is not the starting point of space; it is the outer edge of space.

The key criterion to locate the starting point of space is that it must be a non-moving location. Space cannot start from a moving location. It must start with a location which is fixed and stationary. This is only logical. So, is there a non-moving location in space? The answer is No. Everything is moving in space. Our Earth is moving around the sun in our solar system. Our solar system is moving around the central black hole (Sagittarius A) in our Milky Way galaxy. Fun fact—it takes our solar system 228 million years to complete one round of the galaxy. All the billions of galaxies are either moving closer or moving apart from each other. Everything in space is moving. This does mean that it is impossible to find a non-moving point within space.

So, how does one hunt down this non-moving point with the coordinates x=0, y=0, z=0, and t=0? These coordinates will be the starting point of space. We just saw that it is impossible to find the three coordinates x=0, y=0, and z=0 because space is always moving. The only alternative is to look for t=0 for space. This would require that we look at space from a different perspective. We are so used to looking at space in terms of distance. The tree is 100 feet away, the plane is flying at 30,000 feet, etc. We should look at space in terms of how much time light takes to reach us from different objects. This will help us locate the starting point of space, help us locate the t=0 for space.

If you look at external objects by studying the amount of time light takes to reach us from them, you will find that the starting point for space is the observer within us. Objects which are further away will take more time to reach us than objects which are closer to us. For example, light from the sun takes eight minutes to reach us, while light from the tree outside the window will take about 10 microseconds (10^-6) to reach us. As the distance reduces, the time taken for light to reach us also reduces. A question: where is the location where the light will take 0 seconds to reach us? The correct answer where light will take 0 seconds is the observer, who is watching all these objects. This indicates that the observer within us is the starting point of space. This t=0 is the beginning location of space. The observer is at t=0. If the observer is at t=0, then logically the observer is also at the x=0, y=0, and z=0 locations. This shows that space starts with the observer within us.

From this discussion we can draw the following key conclusions:

1. What is interesting is that t=0 applies to each one of us. The starting point for space for each one of us is the observer within us. If you travel from Delhi to New York, the starting point of space will travel with you. The starting point for space never leaves you. Space always starts with the observer within us. The observer is always the fixed non-moving point for space. Each one of us has their own starting point for space. This is an amazing conclusion.

2. The observer is the t=0 location for space, but it really means that the observer is outside space and time. The observer is never part of space or time. Location t=0+ will be within space, but the location t=0 will be outside space and time. Space starts with the observer point, but the observer within each one of us is outside space and time.

So, the observer is the starting point for space/time and this observer is outside space and time. This observer is a fixed non-moving point. How do we understand what is meant by “outside space and time”?

Understanding Outside Space and Time

We have just seen that the observer is outside space and time. We are also very sure that the observer is within us. The observer cannot be outside us; it must be within us. So, the location of “outside space and time” is right within us. We can call this our innermost core. The observer is part of the inner core.

Surprisingly, our inner core is a very busy place. It is a really happening place. There are many things and much activity within our inner core. There is a fully functioning subtle universe within us. For example:

• SatChitAnanda (Self-Shining Bulb of Awareness)
• Ishvara (God) with Maya Shakti
• Infinite Energy and Time
• Unlimited Intelligence and Knowledge
• Cosmic Mind and Individual Minds
• Subtle Universe Made of Intelligent Waveforms (vrittis)

Wow! There are a number of amazing things and activities within us. It sounds almost unbelievable—all this is within each of us! In fact, this is more complex and complete than anything in the physical world. This internal universe is pretty much unknown to us. We have discussed these topics in many different essays in my book, Science Meets Vedanta. If you properly understand the internal universe, you will realize that everything happens first in the internal universe and then in the gross universe “out there.”

Understanding the Outer Edge of Space

Now that we have located the starting point of space, let us try to understand the outer edge of space. To do that, it is important to see the connection between time and space.

Connection Between Time and Space: Yes, time and space are connected. Time is the cause, and space the effect. If there was no time, there would be no space. Space is nothing but stretched-out time. How should we understand this?

Scientists tell us that the universe is 13.7 billion years old. If light must travel from the outer edge of the universe, it will take 13.7 billion years to reach us. The distance that light must travel is 13.7 billion light-years. One light year is the distance that light travels in one year. One light-year is 9.46 trillion kilometers. Multiply this by 13.7 billion; you will get the size of space.

Let us play around with the age of the universe and the size of the universe. If we assume that the universe is 13.7 billion years old at this very “moment,” then the size of space is 13.7 billion light-years. After one second, the age of the universe will be 13.7 billion years + one second. Light must now travel an additional 186,000 miles to reach us, which means the size of the universe has grown by 186,000 miles. The size of space would be 13.7 billion light-years + 186,000 miles. After 10 seconds, the age of the universe would be 13.7 billion years + 10 seconds, and the size of space would be 13.7 billion light-years + 1,860,000 miles. So, we can see that with every second that passes, the outer edge of space grows by 186,000 miles.

From the above analysis, it is quite clear that time is the cause of space. As long as time flows, space will continue to expand. With each second of time, the universe expands by 186,000 miles. The day time stops flowing, that day the universe will stop expanding. This is an amazing conclusion connecting time and space.

Speed of Light and Einstein’s Theory of Special Relativity: We have just seen that the outer edge of the universe is expanding at the speed of light—186,000 miles per second. Based on Einstein’s Theory of Special Relativity, there are serious implications if anything travels at the speed of light. Let us try and understand this.

Without going into any technical details, the key point of the Theory of Special Relativity is that whenever there is motion, time slows down and space contracts. Yes, time and space are not a fixed entity but are dependent upon the speed of motion. This theory is a proven fact. The faster the motion, the slower the time, and the greater the contraction of space. And, finally, if you reach the speed of light, there is NO time and NO space. Time comes to a standstill and space disappears. This fact is known to science.

We have just seen that the outer edge of space is expanding at the speed of light. This would imply that there is NO space and NO Time at the outer edge of space. If there is no time and space, it would mean that the outer edge of space is outside space and time. So where is the location of something which is outside space and time? We have answered this question earlier. We have seen that our innermost core is outside space and time. This would suggest that the outer edge of space is within our inner core, that the outer edge of space is within us.

It must be understood that only the outer edge of space is within us. Anything closer to the outer edge is not traveling at the speed of light, therefore that location is part of space. The outer edge of space is within us while the remaining part of space is “out there.”

Understanding Space

Isn’t it amazing that both the starting point and the outer edge of space are within us? They are part of the inner core. If this is the case, how do we understand space “out there”? It is not easy. A good way to imagine it is that space and its content are like a mirage popping out of the internal universe, or a hologram being projected.

I guess science will not have an answer to this question. We will have to rely on the teachings of Vedanta. Vedanta is very clear on this topic. It teaches that our mind projects the universe we see around us. The mind is like a projector, projecting all the objects around us. The gross objects we see around us are the projection of the mind. Each mind is its own projector, and each mind projects its own content. I have covered this subject in detail in my book, Science Meets Vedanta. Please read Chapter 18, “Projection—The Only Truth.” A step-by-step process is given on how the projection of the universe works. Please read this to be convinced.

It is quite amazing that space is “out there” but the starting point and outer edge of space are within us. What a mystery and what an insight into our universe! Worth pondering over.

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This is a bold statement. But it is a correct statement. There are many shortcomings, errors, faults, and incomplete answers in the perception process taught by science. The focus of this essay is to highlight some of these shortcomings and then explain how the perception process actually works.

Perception Process Taught by Science

Let us try and understand the process taught by science. There is a universe “out there” with an unlimited number of objects. Let us call these objects “Object 1.” Now, there must be a light source. The light from this source falls on these objects, and the reflected light from these objects travels toward our eyes. This reflected light, using photons, gathers all the required information about the objects—information like the shape and greenness of the tree, the blueness of the sky, the shape and yellowness of the orange, etc. From this, it does seem that this reflected light is our only connection to the world “out there.” If there is no reflected light, we will not be able to perceive the universe. All perception depends upon this reflected light.

When the reflected light with the required information reaches the retina in the eye, the retina converts the reflected light into an optical signal. The optical signal is sent to the brain for processing. What happens in the brain is a big mystery. Science has very little understanding about how the brain processes the optical signal—but somehow an object image is created for perception. We can call the object image created by the brain “Object 2.” It seems there are two sets of the same object: Object 1 “out there” and Object 2 in the brain. We do not experience these two sets; we experience only one set of objects. But which one? A good question.

A good way to understand this is to see what happens when we watch TV. A live sports match is being played at the stadium, and we watch the image of this match on our TV. Here again, there are two sets of the same objects. A live match played in the stadium and another set on TV. We can draw a parallel with our earlier discussion; the live match in the stadium is Object 1 and what we see on TV is Object 2. Here too, there are two sets of objects: Object 1 and Object 2. In this case there is no confusion; we are clear that we are watching Object 2 on the TV. We can never watch a live match (Object 1) by sitting at home; we must be at the stadium.

If we apply the above reasoning, it is correct to conclude that we experience the object image created by the brain—we perceive Object 2. This is logical because the observer within us can only perceive what is created by the brain; it can only perceive Object 2. The observer within us can never perceive Object 1. Why? It is at the other end of the reflected light. There is no direct connection between the observer within us and Object 1. Just like we cannot perceive the live sports match by sitting at home, in the same way the observer within us cannot perceive Object 1 “out there.”

It does seem that we perceive Object 2, which is reproduced by our brain, and not Object 1. If we do perceive Object 2, then a simple question arises: where is Object 1? How do we justify the existence of Object 1? I guess there is no proper answer. Does it feel like we perceive Object 2? No, it does not seem like that. It seems like we are always perceiving Object 1. See the confusion. Logically we perceive Object 2, but we think we perceive Object 1. So how do we justify the existence of two sets of the same object? This confusion is there because the perception process taught by science is incorrect. It is unable to resolve the dilemma between Object 1 and Object 2. So, what is the correct perception process? We will discuss this later on.

Shortcoming of Photons in the Perception Process

Our perception of the external world is solely based on the reflected photons traveling from the object to the retina. This overdependence on the reflected photons has many shortcomings. Let us discuss some of the key issues:

1. Around 120 million photons hit the retina every moment. That is a huge number of photons. Each moment, a new set of photons reaches the human eye. Each of these millions of photons must maintain its purity and accuracy to the highest level. If they don’t, we will have a distortion of the image being created by the brain. Is this 100% accuracy possible? Science teaches us that these photons interact with atoms, molecules, and even virtual particles. When they interact, the photons can be absorbed, deflected, or reinvented as different photons. The longer the distance the photons travel, the higher the chances of distortion. All this will reduce the accuracy of the photons reaching the retina. Distortion of the image created by the brain is a distinct possibility.

2. Another critical question is—how can a photon accurately represent the distance and time it has traveled? The object could be close by (like a tree) or a distant star. There is no way to know which photon has traveled how far to reach the human eye. As of now, there is no indication that the photon has some sort of memory to know from which object it has come from and the distance it has traveled. There are millions of photons hitting the retina, but there is no way to know which photon comes from which object and how much distance it has traveled. If this critical information is lacking, it is impossible for the brain to reproduce the image we are trying to perceive.

3. You could say that this is perhaps unknown to science—the photon does have memory to know the distance it has traveled. If so, how does it transfer this distance data to the retina? The retina in turn must enter data regarding distance into the optical signal being sent to the brain. Only in this way can the brain accurately reconstruct the visual image. We don’t know if this is happening or even possible.

4. There is a lack of understanding of how a photon really functions. We see the photons zipping around at the speed of light, but from the perspective of the photons, they do not really travel; they exist outside space and time. If you properly understand Einstein’s Theory of Special Relativity, you will find this conclusion to be correct.

Without going into any technical details, the key point of this theory is that whenever there is motion, time slows down and space contracts. Yes, time and space are not a fixed entity but are dependent upon the speed of motion. This theory is a proven fact. The faster the motion, the slower the time and the greater the contraction of space. And, finally, if you reach the speed of light, there is NO time and NO space. Time comes to a standstill and space disappears. This fact is known to science.

So, what travels at the speed of light? The only thing which travels at the speed of light is photons. Nothing else can. Since photons travel at the speed of light, from their perspective there is no space and no time. They exist outside space and time. This is a fact, which must be understood and appreciated. Nature is creating an amazing illusion: we think that photons are zipping around at the speed of light, but in reality, the photons do not travel. If this idea is understood, it will shatter the idea that perception is dependent upon photons.

All the above arguments show that it is just not very clear how we really perceive. What science teaches us is full of problems and shortcomings.

Projection—The Correct Perception Process

So, what is the correct perception process? Vedanta is very clear on this topic. It teaches that our mind projects the universe we see around us. The mind is like a projector, projecting all the objects around us. The gross objects we see around us are the projection of the mind. Each mind is its own projector, and each mind projects its own content.

What is this content? The content is the subtle universe in the cosmic mind. There is a fully functioning subtle universe made up of waveforms. Each object in the universe has a subtle version made up of waveforms. The features, attributes, qualities, and makeup of objects are present in this waveform. Even quantum physics confirms that every object has a particle property and a wave property. This wave property taught by quantum physics is what makes up the subtle universe. Amazing that both quantum physics and Vedanta are talking the same language. Even you and I and all living beings have a subtle version. This subtle version of objects makes up the subtle universe. These subtle objects interact with each other; they update and modify each other. It will be surprising to know that everything happens first in this fully functioning subtle universe. Please read Chapter 13—“Life Is a Living Wave”—in my book, Science Meets Vedanta. In this chapter, I have presented an analysis of the subtle universe and how it functions. There is no doubt that a complete understanding of how the subtle universe functions is beyond human intellect. However, knowing the unlimited intelligence present in Nature, the subtle universe must be organized efficiently and effectively.

As earlier mentioned, this subtle universe exists in the cosmic mind. A portion or subset of the subtle universe is sent to each individual mind. This is the portion which covers our current surroundings and all the objects currently around us. As we have discussed in many different essays, Awareness is also present within the mind. So, the individual mind has two components—Awareness and object waveforms. When object waveforms are superimposed on Awareness, we have the experience of the objects.

Awareness is the substratum of all objects. When the object waveforms in the mind enter the presence of Awareness, magic happens. Awareness fills the object waveforms with awareness. The Power of Awareness then projects this content “out there” as gross objects in the gross universe. This is how we perceive the gross world “out there.” I have covered this subject in detail in my book, Science Meets Vedanta. Please read Chapter 18, “Projection—The Only Truth.” A step-by-step process is given on how the projection of the universe works. Please read this to be convinced.

You may notice that in the projection process too, there are two sets of the same objects—one in the mind and the other “out there.” But in this case, there is no confusion. The set in the mind is the subtle version, while the other set which is projected by the mind is the gross version. The subtle version in the mind becomes the gross version. We experience and perceive the gross version “out there.” There is clarity in this process, with no confusion.

Conclusion

We have shown that the perception process taught by science is incorrect. It has many fallacies, shortcomings, and errors. The projection of the universe by the individual mind is the only truth.

 

 

 

What is Silence? Our day-to-day understanding of silence means no sound, no noise. Pin-drop silence means complete silence—no noise or sound whatsoever. In Vedanta, Silence has a much broader meaning: no sound, no visual images, no smell, no taste, and no touch. A complete absence of any sensory input from the five sense organs. In a way, the mind is completely blank or empty—no thoughts or experiences. Is this type of silence even possible? What does this type of silence even mean? Our five sense organs—eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin continuously interact with external objects, and we experience these objects in our mind. There is a continuous bombardment of sensory inputs from the five sense organs. So how does one understand Silence as taught by Vedanta—the complete negation of thoughts, perceptions, feelings, and experiences in the mind?

If you take a deep dive into your day-to-day functioning, you will find instances where you experience Silence as taught by Vedanta.

1. As mentioned earlier, we have a continuous stream of thoughts; it does seem never-ending. If you think about it, when one thought finishes and the next one starts, there must be a blank between the two thoughts. There is a silence between two thoughts, where no sensory inputs are present. An analogy to understand this is that of a movie on TV. We all know that a movie is made up of still frames, usually around 60 frames per second. At 60 frames per second, the movie does look continuous, and we do not notice the collection of still frames. We do not notice the gap between frames. The time duration is so small that you will not notice the gap between frames. But the fact is that there is a gap between two frames.

In the same way, there is a gap between two thoughts. This seems only logical; one thought ends and the next thought begins. There must be a gap between thoughts. However, the duration is so small that we do not notice it, and it is impossible to measure the time gap between two thoughts. This gap is the silence between two thoughts. There is a complete absence of any sensory input during this gap. This silence between two thoughts raises many unanswered questions. What is present, if anything, during this period of silence? Of what is this silence made—what are the ingredients of silence? Interesting questions! We will try and answer these questions in this essay.

2. All of us have three states of experience. We have experiences during the waking state, dream state, and deep sleep state. The bulk of the experiences take place in the waking state. The five senses are active; they interact with the external world. The mind is active full-time, with all the perceptions, emotions, and feelings.

During the dream state, the five senses become inactive; we have no clue about the external world. The internal memory is active, and we experience a random sequence of events in our dreams.

The deep sleep state is interesting—nothing much happens here, but it does reveal a lot. In the deep sleep state, the five senses are inactive, and the mind is also inactive. We experience nothing during deep sleep. The mind is totally blank; it is totally empty; we have no experiences during deep sleep. The mind is silent. Does this mean that this nothingness is the silence we are looking for? We also achieve this state of nothingness in the mind when we are unconscious or have been administered anesthesia by the doctor. Do we need to go into deep sleep or become unconscious or be under anesthesia to experience Silence?

If you properly analyze deep sleep, you will conclude that this state of nothingness, emptiness, is not an accurate statement. There is always something present in the mind. What is present in the mind during deep sleep is Ignorance. We experience Ignorance during deep sleep. This is the same Ignorance we have discussed in many different essays, including in my book, Science Meets Vedanta. When we forget our Real Self of being SatChitAnanda, this Ignorance pops up and covers up our Real Self.

This Ignorance is present in the mind. Since this is Ignorance, there is no way you can experience it. You can experience something which is known; you cannot experience Ignorance. You can never be aware of Ignorance. This Ignorance is the reason why we are not aware of anything during deep sleep. Besides, this Ignorance reveals itself only during deep sleep and it does not show up in our experiences during the waking and dream states.

So, this nothingness, emptiness, in the deep sleep state is not the correct conclusion of silence. This emptiness is because of our Ignorance, hiding our Real Self.

3. There are many reasons for meditation, but the ultimate goal is to reach Samadhi. To reach Samadhi, one must merge with the object of meditation. It is not easy, but it is the final goal of meditation. In Samadhi, there is no separation between the object and the meditator. They merge as one entity. For example, as a beginner you start your meditation on an image of God or any object of your choosing. In the beginning, your mind will wander; in such a situation, the role is to bring the mind back to the object of meditation. Keep doing this. With repeated practice you will reach the next stage, where you can focus on this single object for an extended period. Other sensory inputs will not disturb you. This is progress in the right direction. In the final stage, the separation of the meditator and this object keeps reducing, and finally they merge as one unit. The meditator and object of meditation become one entity. This is the state of Samadhi. There is complete Silence in Samadhi. There is a complete negation of all sensory inputs. There are no sensory objects present in Samadhi.

An interesting question—if there are no sensory inputs, then what is left in the mind? Does this mean that there is nothingness, that the mind is completely blank, a state of shunya (zero)? That conclusion is incorrect. The mind can never be empty. The scriptures teach us that you can never negate everything in the universe. Vedanta teaches us that Awareness is always present. You simply cannot negate Awareness. Awareness was there in the past, it will be there in the future, and it is present right now. So, in Samadhi, you can negate all the sensory objects, but you can never negate Awareness. So, Awareness is always present in Samadhi. In Samadhi, you are not aware of any objects, but you are aware of Awareness. Awareness is always present in Silence. Silence would mean that there are no sensory objects, but Awareness is always present. This is the correct understanding of Silence.

It seems that if you want to experience Silence (or Awareness), you must undergo the rigorous practice of meditation and achieve Samadhi. This is the only way to negate sensory objects and achieve Silence or Samadhi. This is not an easy practice; only a minuscule number of people experience Samadhi. Even if they reach this Samadhi, in most cases this state is temporary. It does not last. Once the meditation is over, one is back among all the worldly objects. The scriptures teach us that permanent Samadhi is possible with the complete dissolution of the mind within Awareness. To achieve this requires more effort and training.

Is Samadhi the only way to understand and experience Silence? Is there a simpler way to understand and experience Silence? Fortunately, there is an alternative way. In this method, it is critically important to correctly understand the makeup of objects. Most of us do not have a correct understanding of objects. The culprit for this is what science has taught us. Scientists are struggling to understand objects. They have little clue about the construction of objects. The discovery of subatomic particles is great, but this knowledge does not help discover the reality of objects.

There must be a better way to understand objects. Let us start with what happens in the mind.

Mind and Objects

All perceptions, feelings, thoughts, and everything happens only in the mind. We experience external objects in the mind alone. All experiences happen only in the mind; they cannot happen elsewhere. So, what is an experience? If you think carefully, you will realize that an experience is made up of the following two components:

Experience = Awareness + Form

1. Awareness: We are always aware of our experience. We can never say we had an experience but are not aware of it. This is simply not possible, because awareness is a critical prerequisite and ingredient of any experience. You have experience because you are aware of it. If there is no Awareness, there can be no experience. Awareness is the substratum of any experience. We have discussed Awareness in almost all the essays. Understanding Awareness is critical. If you properly understand Awareness, you will understand everything in the universe. As we have discussed, Awareness is made of Subject, Object, and Intelligence, and it has three different powers—Knower, Known, and Knowing.
• Awareness = Subject + Object + Intelligence
• Power of Awareness = Power of Knower + Power of Known + Power of Knowing

The three powers of Awareness are the most powerful forces in the universe. Everything depends upon these powers. This topic has been discussed in detail in my book, Science Meets Vedanta. It is strongly recommended to understand these three powers of Awareness.

2. Form: The form is superimposed on Awareness to complete the experience. The form part of the experience is always different and keeps changing. It comes from the five senses: eyes, nose, ears, tongue, and skin. Sometimes it is visual, sometimes it is auditory, and sometimes it is based on memories. The forms keep changing; the experience keeps changing.

There is Awareness, and the object form is superimposed on this Awareness to complete the object. This does indicate that Awareness is the content of all objects. All objects are made up of Awareness and the form is superimposed on this content—just like pot forms are added to clay to give a variety of pots. The content will always be clay for all the pots. In the same way, if you are aware of any object, then the content of that object must be Awareness. This logic is simple, and it is the only truth.

1. If you are aware of the car outside your window, it is because the form of the car is superimposed on Awareness. This Awareness takes the shape of the car.
2. If you are aware of the music from your device, it is because the form of the music is superimposed on Awareness. Awareness becomes the lyrics and music of the song.
3. If you are aware of the taste of chocolate, it is because the taste form of chocolate is superimposed on Awareness. This way you are aware of the taste of chocolate.

People may argue that the subatomic particles are the content of objects. A question—what is the content of these subatomic particles? Science predicts that it may be the vibrating strings. What is the content of these vibrating strings? No one knows. This cycle of finding the inner layer can continue endlessly. Ultimately, the innermost layer must be Awareness; it is the substratum of every object. This truth is logical and must be accepted by science.

Experiencing Silence in Objects

We have just seen that Awareness is the content of all objects and that form is superimposed on Awareness. So, it seems that there are two components to an object—form and Awareness. The question is how we should approach these two components.

Ever since we are born, we are conditioned to focus on the form part of any object. This habit is deep-rooted. We only see object forms. Look anywhere and we are aware of the object forms. It could be visual, sound, taste, smell, or touch. We are convinced that object forms are the only reality. In this process, we completely ignore Awareness, which is the content of all objects. Unfortunately, this is a major error we make while understanding objects.

Awareness is the only content of all objects. Object forms are superimposed on Awareness. These object forms have NO independent existence. They cannot exist without Awareness. If there is no Awareness, no object forms can exist. You are aware of the tree with all its leaves and fruit because the tree is filled with Awareness. This Awareness must take the exact shape of the tree. You cannot have any part of the tree, which is not filled with Awareness, otherwise you will see an incomplete tree. Awareness is the only reason we are aware of the tree. From the above, one can conclude that wherever there are objects, Awareness is present. In fact, there is only Awareness, nothing but Awareness. You cannot separate object form from Awareness; this means that everything is Awareness.

If you think about it, Awareness is hiding in plain sight. Awareness does not make any attempt to conceal itself. So, the correct way to perceive an object is to focus on the Awareness part of the object and not on the form part of the object. If you say, “I am aware of the car,” focus on Awareness and not on the car form. The trick is to shift the attention from the car form to Awareness. Initially it may seem odd and unusual. One thing is clear: you are always “aware” of your surroundings. You can never say “I am not aware” of my surroundings. Pay attention to Awareness. A good way is to practice “I am Aware” with feeling and not repeating it mechanically. Slowly, you will feel this Awareness everywhere—inside you and “out there.”

With regular practice, you will realize that everything “out there” is only Awareness. Object forms have no independent existence. Whenever your focus is solely on Awareness, you will experience Silence. This is the most direct way to understand and experience Silence. In Samadhi, you keep negating sensory objects to reach Awareness. This process is more complex and tedious. If you properly understand that the content of objects is Awareness, you can directly reach Silence.

You can also support this practice by meditation. Meditation teaches us to focus on an object of meditation—it could be our breath, an image, or a mantra. You can easily bypass this process and focus directly on Awareness, which is within you. Why do you follow an indirect journey of focusing on an object to reach the destination of Silence or Awareness? If you want to travel from Delhi to Chennai, you will not go Srinagar first and then to Chennai. It is an indirect journey; it is much easier to travel directly to Chennai. In the same way, why focus on an external object to reach Awareness? Focus directly on Awareness and not on the object of meditation.

If you want to understand silence and experience silence, the most direct way is to properly understand the makeup of objects. The next time you look at objects, please focus on Awareness and not on the object forms.

What is subtle? One of the dictionary meanings of subtle is “difficult to perceive or understand.” If you go by this definition, then understanding and knowing the Subtle Universe will not be easy. This may be true. But the fact is that there is a fully functioning Subtle Universe. In fact, that is the only real universe. Everything happens first in the Subtle Universe and later in the Gross Universe. This may be strange and counterintuitive to most people. We are used to the Gross Universe. We live in the Gross Universe and interact and deal with all the gross objects “out there.” That is the only universe we know. Few know or are even aware of the Subtle Universe. The focus of this essay is to understand the Subtle Universe.

Vedanta teaches us that there are three universes. The Seed Universe is the innermost universe, and then is the Subtle Universe. The Gross Universe which we see “out there” is the outermost universe. This may be new to many people, so let us briefly discuss the Seed and Gross Universes and then focus on the Subtle Universe.

1. Seed Universe
2. Subtle Universe
3. Gross Universe

Seed Universe

Yes, there is a Seed Universe. The Seed Universe is made up of individual Seed Bodies. Every living being must have a Seed Body. A Seed Body is a prerequisite for any living being. Nothing can exist without a Seed Body. We all know that a plant or a tree comes from a seed. A seed is a must for plants or trees. A rose plant from a rose seed, a mango tree with all its fruit from a mango seed. In the same way, every living and non-living being has a Seed Body. Everything germinates from a Seed Body. Even this universe has a Seed Body, which includes all the individual Seed Bodies.

Gross Universe

The Gross Universe is where we live. We know the Gross Universe is full of all living beings and objects. We interact with these gross objects daily. We think we know the Gross Universe well, but we make so many obvious errors in understanding it. One of the biggest errors is that we think the universe is made up of “live” or “now” objects—but the Gross Universe is made up of only dated or “memory” objects. They are recorded objects. You will never find a “live” or “now” object in the Gross Universe. We have discussed this topic in so many different essays in my book, Science Meets Vedanta.

If you examine all the objects in the physical universe, you will reach the conclusion that only memory objects exist in the Gross Universe. How do you understand this? The sun you see is not a “live” sun; it is a “now minus eight minutes” version of the sun. Why? We know light takes eight minutes to reach us from the sun, so the sun we see in the sky is a “now minus eight minutes” sun. It is not a “now” version of the sun. It is a dated version of the sun.

The sun we see is not a “live” or “now” sun; it is basically a memory object which is a “now minus eight minutes” version. In the same way, the moon we see at night is a “now minus three seconds” version of the moon, because light takes three seconds to reach us from the moon. This logic applies to every object in the physical world. It is just impossible for anyone to know or interact with a “live” or “now” object in this physical world. We interact only with memory objects. This applies not just to objects but also to people, animals, and all living beings. For every object in the world, light takes a finite amount of time (however small it maybe)  to reach us , and therefore they are only memory objects; they can never be “live” or “now” objects. Therefore, anything and everything in this physical universe is made up of only memory objects. This does indicate that all the action we see in the Gross Universe is dated and has already happened earlier. The “live” action has happened elsewhere, and we see a recorded version in the Gross Universe.

What an amazing conclusion; it is so logical, so simple and straightforward to understand. So, if all objects are memory or dated objects that exist in the Gross Universe, the question is that where then do the “live” or “now” objects exist? This is where the Subtle Universe comes into play.

Subtle Universe

We have just seen that the Gross Universe is made up of recorded or memory objects alone. So the question is, where can we find the “live” or “now” objects? It is definitely not in the Gross Universe; then where? This is a good question to ponder over. The only possible answer is: our mind. Is this even possible? Simple logic and reasoning support this fact. We have just seen that the sun we see is a “now minus eight minutes” version of the sun. This is because light takes eight minutes to reach us, and thus we see a dated version of the sun. The question is, where is the “now minus zero seconds” version of the sun? The location of the “now’ version of the sun will be where light will take zero seconds to reach us. Think about it—the only place where light will take zero seconds to reach us is the observer within each one of us. This means the “now” version of the sun is within the observer. Quite obviously, the observer is within us and is part of the mind. Therefore, the “now” version of the sun is within us while the “now minus eight minutes” version is “out there.” This simple logic and reasoning will apply to all objects, near and far away. This does show that all the “now” version of objects are only within the mind. There is a full universe of “now” objects within each one of us. This universe of “now’ objects is the Subtle Universe. This Subtle Universe functions in the mind alone. Isn’t this an amazing conclusion!

Makeup of “Now” Objects: We have just concluded that the Subtle Universe of the “now” version of objects functions in the mind. Let us now go a step deeper to understand the makeup of “now” objects in the Subtle Universe. If you are a student of Vedanta, you will learn that all the subtle objects which operate within the mind are made up of vrittis or waveforms. The mind is full of vrittis or waveforms representing all the different objects.

Surprisingly, quantum physics supports this idea of waveforms of objects. If you understand the basics of quantum physics, you will know about the wave/particle duality of objects. Quantum physics teaches that all objects (small or big) have a wave property and a particle property. This is a proven fact. See the similarity between the wave/particle duality of quantum physics and gross objects and subtle objects (made up of waves) as taught by Vedanta. In my book, Science Meets Vedanta, I have discussed this topic extensively and shown that quantum waves and vrittis or waveforms in the mind are the same. It is amazing that both quantum physics and Vedanta support this idea that every object has a wave property and a particle property. However, what quantum physics can learn is that quantum waves do not function in the Gross Universe; they operate within the mind and they represent the “now” version of all objects. These waveforms are the building blocks of the Subtle Universe.

Every object in the universe has its own waveform. These object waveforms combine to create one big waveform for the universe. We can call this the cosmic waveform. This cosmic waveform includes everything which is contained in the universe. Nothing is left out, right from the smallest atom to the largest galaxies. The size and complexity of this massive cosmic waveform is simply breathtaking.

Structure of the Subtle Universe: The Subtle Universe has two components—Cosmic Mind and Individual Mind. The cosmic mind is the mothership, and all the individual minds are connected to the cosmic mind.

1. The cosmic waveform represents all the objects in the universe and is contained in the cosmic mind. A lot is happening in the cosmic mind. The cosmic waveform is not static; it is continuously updated. As time passes, each object’s waveform changes, and this change updates the cosmic waveform. With so many different objects in the universe, what a gigantic task is undertaken by the cosmic mind! As time passes, each object changes and this means that the cosmic waveform is continuously updated.

2. The cosmic mind is a busy place, and it maintains the most updated database of all the happenings in the universe. Then, we have individual minds. Each living being has a mind and it is connected to the cosmic mind. Each individual mind is also full of activity. Talking, walking, eating, playing, traveling, moving objects from here to there, and many similar activities are done by the individual mind. When any activity is done, the individual mind must send all the changes to the cosmic mind. In this way, the cosmic waveform is kept up-to-date. These updates are done instantaneously. This means that the information in the cosmic mind is always current and latest. Every living being is doing actions, and each mind is updating the database in the cosmic mind. It is just unimaginable how the cosmic mind processes and handles all these changes and updates. It is simply mind-boggling. One can only imagine the processing power which is inherent in the cosmic mind. It must be infinite.

3. The cosmic mind has the latest and most updated information about all the “now” objects. For the individual minds to perceive the universe through the five senses, it downloads a subset of the cosmic waveform. The subset contains information about its surroundings—just like Google Maps, where you open the map and see information about your location alone. The individual mind functions in a similar manner; it downloads information surrounding its location.

If you are within your house, the subset waveform will have information on all the happenings in the house. If you are playing golf, the subset waveform will contain all the information surrounding the golf course. If you are flying in a plane and looking out of the window, that subset information is downloaded to the mind. If you are swimming underwater, all the information for that view is sent to the individual mind. This happens to every individual mind. There is a continuous download of information from the cosmic mind to the individual minds.

Each individual mind has all the information about its location, including visual, sound, touch, taste, and smell. The information in the mind is made up of waveforms. The problem is that we are not designed to perceive the waveforms in the mind. We are only aware of what happens in the gross world. To perceive the universe, the mind projects the subset content as the gross objects “out there.” Just like a projector in a cinema hall projects the movie on a screen, in the same way, the mind projector projects the gross universe “out there.” That is the only way to perceive the universe. That is the only way we are aware of the universe. This may seem strange and counterintuitive to most people. Science does not teach that we project the universe, but Vedanta does. Projection of the universe by the mind is the only truth. For more details on this subject, I would request you to read Chapter 18 of my book, Science Meets Vedanta. In this chapter, called “Projection—The Only Truth,” I have given a detailed analysis of why projection is the only truth and a step-by-step process of how the projection takes place. It is worth a read to be fully convinced on this subject.

4. We have just seen that all actions that we undertake are uploaded to the cosmic mind. Also, we have seen that to perceive the universe, we download the content from the cosmic mind. Let me give you a couple of examples to explain the upload and download process.

—Let us say you are having a conversation with your friend. This activity looks so routine and straightforward. Actually, it is not; it is much more complicated. Let us see how it works. Your friend is talking. His talking originates in his mind. We know the mind is made up of waveforms. The talking waveform from the mind is uploaded to the cosmic mind. The cosmic waveform is updated to include this talk. For you to listen to this conversation, your mind will download these sound waveforms along with all the other object waveforms about your location. Once you download these waveforms, the mind projects the content. This way you become aware of what your friend is saying. As a reply in the conversation, your mind will prepare an answer. The sound waveform of this answer is uploaded to the cosmic mind, and the cosmic waveform is updated. You and your friend will download this subset of your answer. Your friend’s mind will project this, so that he is aware of what you have said. Your mind will also project this information, so that you can also hear what you have said. Wow, this process is complicated. Yes, it is complicated, and this is the only way all the action and perception happens in the Subtle Universe.

—Let us take another example. You and your friend are walking, and your friend plucks a flower. The plucking of the flower happens first in the Subtle Universe. As mentioned earlier, the Gross Universe contains only dated information, actions which have already happened. Therefore, the plucking of the flower happens first in the Subtle Universe. Your friend’s mind undertakes this action by updating the waveform. One can only guess that waveforms are updated by change in coding. The waveform without the flower is uploaded to the cosmic mind. The cosmic waveform is then without that flower. Your mind then downloads the updated subset of the cosmic waveform without the flower. Your mind projects this information, and you perceive the action of the flower being removed from the plant. That is how the action and perception of activity takes place.

Everything happens in the Subtle Universe first, and then the actions which have already happened in the Subtle Universe are projected “out there” as the Gross Universe. The Subtle Universe is the universe of “now” objects where all the action happens first; the Gross Universe is a display of dated, memory objects. The Gross Universe shows all the action which has already happened in the Subtle Universe. This is the Only Truth.

How do we talk or speak? What is the science behind speech? If you google this, you will find many similar answers. Here is a sample found online:
Speech starts in the stomach with the diaphragm. This is a large muscle that helps push air from the lungs into the voice box. The voice box or larynx has vocal cords that vibrate to produce your voice. Then, the lips, tongue, and teeth form the sounds to make speech.

The process mentioned above seems like the end process of actual speech. It looks incomplete. Science is leaving out many unanswered questions. It is leaving out the beginning part of the speech process.

1. When we were born, none of us knew any words or any language. Slowly but surely, we picked up our native and other languages. The question is how we learned these languages. What is the power which allowed us to learn these words and languages?

2. To talk or speak there must be words. Without words there can be no talk. So, words are an integral and important component of any speech. The question is where and how these words are stored. We can speak only the words we know and have learned.

3. Okay, we make a database of words within us. The next question is how we choose the words from this database. Who chooses these words? Who decides what we are going to say?

4. Once the decision is made on what to say, the next question is how these words are sent across to the vocal cords in the physical body so that the final speech is made.

Wow! So many interesting and unanswered questions. The process does not seem simple; it looks elaborate and complicated. Unfortunately, scientists have no answers to most of the above questions. So, what is the solution? We must look elsewhere to find the answer. The only right place is the teaching of Vedanta. To unpack these questions, we will divide our discussion into the following topics:

• Understanding the Power of Knowing
• How Do We Learn?
• Role of Mind in Speech
• Interface Between Mind and Vocal Cords
  Understanding the Power of Knowing
  
  We have discussed Power of Knowing in many different essays. It is one of the key powers within Awareness. We have mentioned in these essays that there is a Bulb of Awareness within each living being. It is our innermost core. This Bulb of Awareness radiates Awareness, and it has the following three amazing powers:
  
• Power of Knower (Subject)
• Power of Known (Object)
• Power of Knowing (Knowledge and Intelligence)
  
  This Bulb of Awareness is the source of everything in the universe. It is the substratum of all objects. The power of Knower allows us to be the Observer of the universe. Power of Known allows Awareness to take the shape of all objects in the universe. Power of Knowing is intelligence. Let us discuss this in a little more detail.
  
  Power of Knowing: Awareness is the repository of all possible knowledge and intelligence. It is as if there is a complete digital library within Awareness. No possible knowledge or intelligence is missing. Power of Knowing is the power which allows us to tap into the unlimited knowledge and intelligence which is present within Awareness.
  
  1. If you are aware of 2+2=4, it is because this knowledge is within Awareness. If you know calculus, it is because all the knowledge of calculus is within Awareness. If you know Sanskrit, it is because this knowledge is resident within Awareness. If you know Chinese, it is because that knowledge is within Awareness. If you know music, it is because that knowledge is within Awareness. Think of any possible knowledge, that knowledge is present within Awareness. Nothing is missing.
  
  2. All the intelligence is also present within Awareness. All the logic, making inferences, creative thinking, making cross-connections within different knowledge streams, remembering knowledge—all this and much more is present within Awareness. Also present are all the different powers—the power to understand, power to think, power to learn, power to perceive, power to hear, and so many other powers.
  
  Awareness is the storage of all possible knowledge and also all possible intelligence. All this knowledge and intelligence is present right within us. If you think about it, our knowledge is very limited, a small iota of all possible knowledge. All the remaining knowledge is present within Awareness, but it is covered by our individual ignorance. If the right effort is made, Power of Knowing helps in removing this ignorance and exposes the required knowledge. All the unlimited knowledge is present within Awareness. Breathtaking!
  
  How Do We Learn?
  When a baby is born, it has no knowledge; it is only covered with ignorance. Knowledge-wise, it is a blank slate. So how does it gain knowledge? We have all been through this process. With repeated instructions and practice, the baby recognizes simple objects and words, and gains knowledge. This new knowledge sticks and the Power of Knowing removes ignorance of these topics. The mind therefore gains intelligence and knowledge of these topics. As children grow up and go to school, with repeated learning and practice, more ignorance is removed and more knowledge is gained. It is surprising how rapidly this knowledge grows. It is almost exponential in the early stages. This is because Power of Knowing exposes this knowledge within the mind. For example, suppose you start to learn English and are exposed to the basics of the language. Initially you learn different words and sentences. Thereafter, your mind also self-learns many words and sentences just by picking up from the English spoken around you—listening to TV and movies, people talking around you, and by reading, etc. Very little effort is made to get additional knowledge. It comes almost automatically. This applies to all aspects of our learning. A well-tuned learning mind makes full use of the connections with Power of Knowing. It does seem that the mind is a powerful self-learning tool; it is constantly learning and picking up intelligence with Power of Knowing. That is the strength and beauty of the mind—it is self-learning. The more knowledge you gain, the stronger your mind will become. This also means that the mind has a much bigger database of knowledge.
  
  It is not wrong to say that the mind is the ultimate Artificial Intelligence (AI) device, continuously learning and upgrading itself in the presence of Power of Knowing. In spite of this, a great deal of knowledge remains covered by Ignorance. Only that knowledge which has been revealed is available to the mind; the rest remains hidden. The knowledge of calculus will not reveal itself automatically. It must be learned first; only then will the knowledge of calculus be available. This applies to all knowledge.
  
  Individual Mind Profile: It is a known fact that each person has a different knowledge–ignorance profile. Some people are more intelligent than others. Some people are intelligent in a certain skill set, while others are more talented in other skills. According to Vedanta, the soul is the keeper of this knowledge–ignorance profile—keeping a profile of our intelligence. This knowledge profile is not gained in this life but is a cumulative profile of all previous lives. If you are good at Math, it is because you have this skill set in your soul. This skill set was acquired over all your previous past lives. If you are good at languages, it is because you have the skill for languages from your previous lives.
  
  These skill set within your soul will help you in this lifetime. For example, if you have the skill for languages, you will learn a language much faster than others who do not have the skill for languages. You will have a bigger database of words.
  
  Role of Mind in Speech
  A good comparison is to understand the role played by Siri in iPhones and Alexa on Amazon. These types of AI devices are now quite common, and we use them regularly in our daily lives. Ask a question and these AI assistants will reply and talk back to you. They seem quite intelligent. Many different types of robots also fall into this category. Amazing work is being done in this area. There is a database of information. These devices are programmed to make different connections within the database. When a question is asked, these devices use these connections and respond appropriately. They self-learn and become intelligent. It must be understood that the intelligence of these devices is limited by the size of the database, the quality of the database, and how well they have been programmed.
  
  In that regard, the human mind is just like any AI device. Its behavior is similar. We discussed earlier that the mind is self-learning and continuously updating its knowledge database. One of the functions of the mind database is to support speech and speaking. Depending on the topic, question, or response to a conversation, the mind will investigate the database and create appropriate words and sentences. As we mentioned earlier, each living being has their own exclusive mind profile, their own database of words, their own style of talking. All these factors are considered when the mind creates sentences for communication. So, each mind is different and will respond differently.
  
  The important takeaway from this discussion is that the highly intelligent mind is the starting point of any communication. All talking and speech begins with the mind. Formation of words and sentences is all done in the mind. What you are going to say is all decided in the mind. This may sound strange, but yes, the intelligent mind is the source of all communication. We are so used to thinking that the “I” is the source of all the talking, but it is the mind which does all the work.
  
  Mind and Ego: Does that mean we are at the mercy of the mind, that we are captives of the mind? Whatever the mind decides, is it final? That seems quite dangerous. Luckily, this is not the case. We have an ego (the feeling of “I-ness”) which can and should control and manage the mind.
  
  What really happens is that when the mind finalizes the words and sentences for speaking, it presents it to the ego for consideration. The ego will either like (raga) or dislike (dvesha) what is being presented. If the ego likes it, it will allow the speech to move forward. If it dislikes it, it can ask the mind to modify it. I am sure we all experience this. Sometimes we are about to make some stupid statement, but we decide not to move forward with it and we make modifications. This happens when the ego disapproves, and then the mind makes the required changes. From this, it does seem that the ego is the real boss. In fact, the presence of the ego is the main difference between a robot and human beings. Robots have no ego but the human being has an ego.
  
  However, the ego must be vigilant and keep a close watch on the output from the mind. If the ego becomes lazy, the mind can take advantage, and it can create havoc.
  
  Interface Between Mind and Vocal Cords
  We have just seen that the starting point of any speech is the mind. The mind prepares the words and sentences which are finally spoken. No one knows through what format these words are prepared; I guess it is subtle. These words/sentences are residing in the mind, and they must finally reach the vocal cords. So, how do these words reach the vocal cords? This can be broken into two steps:
  
  Step 1—Mind to Brain: We know the brain is the controller and manager of everything which happens in the physical body. Therefore, the mind must send the signal containing the words to the brain.
  
  The brain has different departments. Each department specializes in different activities. Some specialize in vision or sound or coordinating with different organs and parts of the body. So how does the brain receive its instructions from the mind? The connection between the mind and brain is through the billions of neurons available within the brain. These neurons are the information messengers between the mind and brain. When instructions or activity happen in the mind, the neurons pass this information to the relevant parts of the brain. This is how information is shared between the mind and brain—through neurons.
  
  The auditory cortex and the temporal lobe are the parts of the brain that process sound. The speech signal is sent to the auditory cortex by these neurons from the mind. How this really happens, only Nature knows. We have no clue, but it is happening.
  
  Step 2—Brain to Vocal Cords: A different class of neurons then coordinates and organizes the different parts of the brain so that the instructions from the mind can be completed. For implementation, the brain sends signals to the sound-related organs and body parts through the complex nervous system. Based on these instructions, the different sound-related organs are activated to reproduce the required sound. All this is simply amazing. It is like operating a complex machine. We think we are moving our tongue to produce sounds, but we are doing nothing. The instructions from the brain are completing the job. The ego takes the credit, but really it does not contribute much.
  
  What a complex procedure for speech to happen. These steps are repeated again and again whenever we speak. Isn’t this simply amazing? We must bow to our innermost core, which allows this complex process from the mind to the vocal cords to work so seamlessly. We think the ‘I’ within us is doing the talking, but it does not, it only takes the credit. Whenever we speak, we must be grateful to the awesome powers of Awareness. The three powers of Awareness are the ultimate source of everything and anything in this universe. Nothing can happen without these three powers.

I am sure most of us think about these questions. They are so fundamental to everything we see around us, including our own existence. So, who is Ishvara (God)? It is not an easy question to answer. Ask people and you will get a variety of answers and even divergent viewpoints. Ask a Christian, they will say Jesus Christ is their God. Ask a Muslim, they will say Allah is their God. Ask a Hindu, you will get a list of different Ishvaras.

People have so many different concepts, ideas, and viewpoints about Ishvara. Who is correct? One thing is certain—there is a lack of proper understanding and knowledge about this topic. When there is a lack of knowledge, myths and misinformation take root among people. This lack of understanding makes Ishvara very remote and distant. It seems Ishvara is beyond our grasp. So, what is the solution? The only solution is proper and correct knowledge of Ishvara. One of the major benefits of this knowledge is that it takes you closer to Ishvara. The more you learn about Ishvara, the closer you can get to Ishvara—this fact cannot be denied. The more you demystify Ishvara, the nearer you get to Ishvara. The question is, how do you demystify? Proper knowledge is the only solution. Yes, knowledge is a MUST, a prerequisite, to understand Ishvara. Without proper knowledge, progress can be limited. It is a fact; knowledge is not the ultimate step. Once the correct knowledge is acquired and understood, then devotion is a necessary step to reach the destination. So, it seems like a two-step process: acquire the correct knowledge first, and then reach the destination with devotion. The focus of this essay is the first step of acquiring the correct knowledge about Ishvara. We will see in this essay that Ishvara is hiding in plain sight. It is everywhere.

The next question–if you ask people where Ishvara is, many people will point to the sky, thinking heaven is somewhere in the sky and that Ishvara resides in heaven. Some people may consider that Ishvara is found only in temples. People who are exposed to the scriptures will agree that the divinity of Ishvara will be found within each one of us, but with limited understanding. In this essay, we will also discuss where is the residence of Ishvara.

Who Is Ishvara?
People who have been reading my essays may be able to answer this question. Ishvara is Awareness. Yes, Ishvara is Awareness. It is that simple. Awareness seems such an ordinary word, but the powers within Awareness are simply extraordinary. Awareness is the most powerful force in the universe; it is the substratum of anything and everything in the universe. Everything exists because of Awareness. Nothing can exist without Awareness.

1. How do we witness everything in the universe through our five senses? It is because of Awareness.
2. What is the makeup of all the objects in the universe—right from atoms to galaxies and everything in between? It is Awareness alone, nothing but Awareness.
3. How do you see, taste, smell, listen to all objects? It is because of Awareness.
4. How do you learn and understand everything about this complex universe? It is because of the knowledge and intelligence which is within Awareness.

So, it seems everything in the universe happens because of Awareness. Are you aware of reading this essay? Are you aware of your surroundings? The answer must be Yes. That is the Awareness we are talking about. It is that simple. If you think about it, we have experiences on a continuous basis. We are aware of all our experiences. You cannot say I had an experience, and I am not aware of it. Awareness is the basic ingredient of all experiences. The content of all experiences is Awareness, for only then can you be aware of the experience. We have had experiences on a continuous basis ever since we were born. So, it seems Awareness is with us right from our birth. We therefore take Awareness for granted and do not think about it very much. This Awareness is Ishvara. To support this idea, let us discuss the powers which are present within Ishvara. If you can understand and appreciate these powers, you will conclude that Awareness must be Ishvara.

Powers of Awareness
We have discussed the powers of Awareness in so many different essays and in my book, Science Meets Vedanta. We will briefly repeat them here to show how these powers of Awareness must be the powers of Ishvara. Awareness is made of Subject, Object, and Intelligence, and it has three different powers—Knower, Known, and Knowing.

• Awareness = Subject + Object + Intelligence
• Power of Awareness = Power of Knower + Power of Known + Power of Knowing

It must be understood that Subject, Object, Intelligence, and the three powers are not something outside in the world—they are within Awareness and make up Awareness. If any one of them is missing, Awareness will not work and will be incomplete.

• If there is an object to be observed but there is no subject, there will be no Awareness, as there is no one to see the object.
• If there is a subject but no object to see, there will be no Awareness, as the subject has no object to observe.
• If there is an object but the subject has no way of knowing what this object is, no Awareness will take place. This knowing must have intelligence.

Wherever there is Awareness, there must be present Subject, Object, and Intelligence with all the three powers. Right now, you are aware that you are reading this essay. In this Awareness, there is a Reader (Subject) who is reading this essay. The words in the essay are the object within Awareness. There is intelligence which decodes the words so that the reader can comprehend them. Every experience must have these three powers. These powers are the gift from Ishvara. Let us discuss these three powers of Awareness in some more detail.

Power of Knower: There must be a witness within us that witnesses these experiences. Vedanta uses the term Sakshi or witness. This witness is the Subject. Power of the Knower manipulates Awareness so that Awareness plays the role of a Subject. This power gives the Subject the ability to play many different roles. Here are some examples of how the Subject undertakes this task:

• When it is the Knower of seeing, the Subject is a seer.
• When it is the Knower of hearing, the Subject is a hearer.
• When it is the Knower of reading, the Subject is a reader.
• When it is the Knower of tasting, the Subject is a taster.

There is one Subject within us, who is playing all the different roles of seer, hearer, reader, taster, smeller, feeler, and many more such roles. This Subject is indeed a very dynamic entity; at the drop of a hat it keeps changing its role all through the day. One moment it is a seer of a tree; the next moment it could be a listener of music, then back to the seer of a car ahead, then the smeller of perfume of a passerby. With every change of experience, the Subject plays a different role. The profile of the Subject keeps changing thus rapidly all through the day. It is simply amazing. All this is possible because of the Power of Awareness, which is nothing but Ishvara.

Power of Known: A simple question—how do you know an object exists? The obvious answer is that you are aware of the object. Since you are aware, you are sure the object exists. If awareness is not present, then the object will not exist; you will not know the object. Awareness is the basic ingredient of any object. This Awareness must fill up the object, take the exact shape of the object, so that you can be aware of the object. Power of the Known manipulates Awareness so that Awareness can take the shape of the object. A good metaphor to understand this is that it is like a lump of Play-Doh. You can manipulate Play-Doh into any shape. You can make a car, a tree, a house. In the same way, Power of the Known can manipulate Awareness into filling up any object with Awareness. How Power of the Known manipulates Awareness into becoming all the different objects in the universe is a million-dollar question—only Ishvara knows.

• If you are aware of the car outside your window, it is because Power of the Known manipulates Awareness into taking the shape of the car.
• If you are aware of the music from your device, it is because Power of the Known fills up the music with Awareness.
• If you are aware of the taste of chocolate, it is because the taste form of chocolate is superimposed on Awareness by Power of the Known.

Awareness is the ingredient, the substratum of all objects “out there.” Object forms vary, but the content of all objects is Awareness. Since Awareness is Ishvara, all the objects in the universe are made up of Ishvara. Simply amazing. This idea is worth thinking about and contemplating. This logic should help you to look at these objects “out there” with a new and different perspective.

Power of Knowing: Awareness is the repository of all possible knowledge and intelligence. It is like a digital library within Awareness. No possible knowledge or intelligence is missing.

1. If you are aware of 2+2=4, it is because this knowledge is within Awareness. If you know calculus, it is because all the knowledge of calculus is within Awareness. If you know Sanskrit, it is because this knowledge is resident within Awareness. Everything you have learned since you were born, that knowledge is present within Awareness. Initially, the knowledge is covered by ignorance. You are unaware of that knowledge. When you remove ignorance of a topic, Power of Knowing exposes that knowledge from within Awareness. Once that is done, you learn, you understand, you become aware, and you know that knowledge. If you think about it, our knowledge is very limited, a small iota of all possible knowledge. All the remaining knowledge is present within Awareness, but it is covered by our individual ignorance. If the right effort is made, Power of Knowing helps in removing this ignorance and exposes the required knowledge. All the unlimited knowledge is present within Awareness. Breathtaking!

2. All the intelligence is also present within Awareness. All the logic, making inferences, creative thinking, making cross connections within different knowledge streams, remembering knowledge—all this and much more is present within Awareness. Unfortunately, the human mind is exposed to only a small part of this Intelligence.

Awareness is the storage of all possible knowledge and also all possible intelligence. Therefore, it is only correct to conclude that Ishvara must be Awareness.

I am sure this discussion must have convinced you that Ishvara is Awareness. All the knowledge, all the intelligence, all the objects of the universe and our ability to witness them are part of Awareness. The powers within Awareness are nothing short of breathtaking and amazing. If you are aware at this moment, then that Awareness is Ishvara. Wherever there is Awareness, Ishvara is present there. Since Awareness is everywhere, it does seem that Ishvara is not making any attempt to hide itself or make itself very complicated. Where there is Awareness, Ishvara is already present there. You can say that Ishvara is hiding in plain sight, but we are ignoring this fact. My suggestion is to understand Awareness. Once you can do that, you will understand Ishvara and you will understand this universe. You will also get closer to Ishvara.

Where Is Ishvara?
We have just seen that wherever there is Awareness, that Awareness is Ishvara. All the objects in the universe are made up of Awareness. That means Ishvara is everywhere. Go to any corner of the universe—if you are aware of the surroundings, then Ishvara is present there. So, it is correct to conclude that everything “out there” is only Ishvara and Ishvara is everywhere. This is the only correct conclusion. So, the next question to answer is—what is the source of this Awareness? Where does this Awareness come from? If you know the source of Awareness, then you will know the residential address of Ishvara.

We have discussed in many different essays that our innermost core is a Bulb of Awareness. This Bulb of Awareness is like a factory generating and radiating Awareness. This Bulb is the source of the Awareness “out there.” All the Awareness in the universe is due to this Bulb of Awareness. For students of Vedanta, it is worth mentioning that Bulb of Awareness and SatChitAnanda are synonymous. If the Bulb of Awareness is present in our innermost core, that would mean that Ishvara is present in our innermost core.

What does innermost core really mean? Innermost core indicates that it is something which is within us. However, if we look inside, we only find the inner parts of our body—all the organs, muscles, blood, and so many other things. The scriptures teach us that divinity does reside within each one of us. It is not easy to understand how divinity can reside within us, when we have only internal organs within us. Is there something else within us of which we have no clarity or understanding? It does seem that our innermost core must be something much deeper than our inner organs. Something beyond our inner organs. How do we find this place and how do we understand it? The only way is to investigate the starting point of space. If we do that, we will find that the innermost core is beyond space. The Bulb of Awareness or Ishvara is sitting outside space.

Understanding the Starting Point of Space: Science has got it completely wrong about the starting point of space. Yes, the universe may have started with the Big Bang 13.7 billion years ago. However, the Big Bang is no longer the starting point of space—it is now the outer edge. We know space is expanding; therefore, the outer edge must also be moving further away from us. Logically, space must start from a nonmoving point. The outer edge is expanding and moving; therefore, the Big Bang point cannot be the starting point. We must look elsewhere.

The best way is to look at space in terms of time, not distance. How much time does light take to reach us from different objects? Let us study the objects “out there” in terms of time. We see a faraway star, say, five million light-years away; it takes light from that star five million years to reach us. Now we see the sun; light from the sun takes eight minutes to reach us. We look at the moon; light takes three seconds to reach us. We look at the plane flying in the sky at 30,000 feet; light takes about 300 milliseconds to reach us. As the distance of the object being viewed is reduced, the time taken for light to reach us is much less.

Now, we look at the tree outside the window; the time taken for light to reach us is 10 microseconds (10-6). Looking at the computer screen one foot away and reading this essay, light takes about one nanosecond (10-9) to reach us. As the distance reduces, the time taken for the light to reach us reduces. If you extrapolate this backward, the only logical location for light to take zero seconds to reach us is the Subject (Sakshi), who is watching all these objects. This subject is the starting point of space. This starting point is the t=0 for space. This Subject is the nonmoving point of space.

If you or anyone else looks around at the objects in the universe and uses the reasoning given above, each one will reach the same conclusion: that the starting point of space is the Subject within each one of us. This is simply amazing that space starts from the Subject within us. That means that everything which is behind the Subject is outside space. The physical body and all the objects “out there” are within space, but everything behind the subject or observer is outside space. If you travel from Mumbai to New York, the starting point for space will travel with you. The Subject within you will always be the staring point of space, irrespective of your location.

What Is Behind the Subject, Which Is Outside Space? We only know everything which happens in space. Knowing what happens outside space is not an easy task. We know that the Subject is just outside space because we have shown that the Subject is the starting point of space. As we have discussed, Subject is part of Awareness, therefore the source of Awareness is within us, but outside space. The Ishvara which is present within us is outside space. This is a new dimension to understand that both space and outside space are within us. If you go deeper into understanding what is outside space, you will find it is a busy and happening place. I would request you to read my essay “What Is There within Us,” where we have discussed this topic in detail. As mentioned in this essay, the following levels are within us, but outside space. Level 1 is our innermost core and Level 4 the outermost. It may be surprising to know that the mind is not in space, but outside space.

Level 1: SatChitAnanda/Ishvara
Level 2: Soul/Seed Body
Level 3: Individual Mind/Cosmic Mind
Level 4: Cosmic Waveforms

The only correct conclusion of this essay is that Ishvara is Awareness and Ishvara is within us, but outside space. To reach Ishvara, our focus should be understanding Awareness.