✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 46 of 112 — Absorption In The Crown
Sanskrit Verse
yathātathā yathāsthāne dvādaśānte manolayāt | kṣaṇe kṣīṇavikalpasya sthairyaṃ bhavati yoginaḥ ||
By dissolving the mind in the Dvadasanta, in whatever way or place, the practitioner becomes free of fluctuations and achieves stability within a moment.
Commentary
The 'Dvadasanta' is a crucial concept in Kashmir Shaivism, referring to the 'end of the twelve.' It typically signifies a point twelve finger-widths above the crown of the head (the Bahya-dvadasanta) or the space between the nostrils and the heart (Antar-dvadasanta). This dharana emphasizes the dissolution of the mind ('manolayat') at this specific energetic terminus. The metaphysics here involve the movement of Prana. When the breath or the attention reaches the Dvadasanta, there is a natural pause—a moment of stillness where the dualistic mind (Vikalpa) can be dissolved into the non-dual state (Nirvikalpa). The phrase 'yatha tatha' (in whatever way) suggests a radical freedom in the technique; the practitioner is not bound by rigid ritual but by the intensity of their absorption. By projecting the consciousness to this limit of the energetic body, one transcends the egoic self. The result is 'sthairyam,' a profound, unshakable stability that arises when the flickering flames of thought are extinguished in the vastness of the absolute. It is a technique of rapid transcendence, intended to bring the yogi to a state of stillness 'in a moment.'
Practice Instructions
- 01Sit quietly and bring your attention to the flow of your breath. Follow the inhalation as it rises from the heart to the crown and then beyond.
- 02Focus your mind on the space exactly twelve finger-widths above the top of your head. This is the outer Dvadasanta.
- 03Alternatively, you may focus on the space where the breath ends its outward flow. Hold your awareness steadily in this empty space outside the physical body.
- 04Do not try to think about the space; simply 'dissolve' your thinking mind into it. Imagine your thoughts evaporating as they reach this point.
- 05As the mind settles into this void, the 'Vikalpas' (thought-constructs) will naturally subside.
- 06Maintain this state of externalized, objectless awareness. The goal is to feel your consciousness resting outside the limitations of the skull and the nervous system, anchored in the infinite space above.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is the 'twelve-finger' distance?
It is a traditional measurement (roughly 8-9 inches) used to locate the subtle energy center above the head. It marks the boundary where the individual energy field meets the cosmic field. You don't need a ruler; use your intuition to find the point where your attention feels most elevated.
Why does the verse say 'in whatever way'?
This reflects the Tantric emphasis on efficacy over rigid form. It means whether you reach this state through breath control, intense devotion, or sudden realization, the result is the same. The focus is on the 'Laya' or dissolution of the mind, not the specific method used to get there.
Is this the same as the Sahasrara Chakra?
It is related but distinct. While the Sahasrara is at the crown, the Bahya-dvadasanta is slightly above it. It represents a state of consciousness that has moved entirely beyond the physical and subtle bodies, entering the pure space of Shiva that permeates everything.
I feel dizzy when focusing above my head. What should I do?
Dizziness suggests you are trying too hard or straining your internal eyes. Soften your focus. Instead of 'looking' up, 'feel' the space above you. If it persists, ground yourself by focusing on the navel for a few minutes before returning to the Dvadasanta with a gentler approach.
How long should I hold my breath at the Dvadasanta?
This dharana does not strictly require breath retention (Kumbhaka), though it may happen naturally. The focus is on 'Manolayat'—the dissolution of the mind. Focus on the mental absorption in that space rather than forcing the breath to stop, which could cause physical tension.
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