✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 86 of 112 — The Pervasive Presence
Sanskrit Verse
yathā tathā yatra tatra dvādaśānte manaḥ kṣipet | pratikṣaṇaṃ kṣīṇavṛtter vailakṣaṇyaṃ dinair bhavet ||
Wherever and however the mind is directed toward the Dvadashanta, if the mental fluctuations are stilled, an extraordinary state will manifest within a few days.
Commentary
The 'Dvadashanta' is a technical term in Tantric yoga referring to a point twelve finger-breadths away from a specific center. The most common Dvadashanta is the 'Bahya Dvadashanta' (external), located twelve finger-breadths above the crown of the head or away from the nostrils. This dharana instructs the seeker to cast the mind (kṣipet) into this subtle space. The metaphysics here involve the movement of Prana and the stabilization of the mind outside the physical body. By fixing the attention on a point in space that is disconnected from the physical senses and the ego-personality, the practitioner breaks the habitual identification with the body-mind complex. The verse promises 'vailakṣaṇyaṃ'—a state of extraordinary transformation or 'other-worldliness.' This occurs because the 'vṛttis' (fluctuations of the mind) are starved of their usual fuel. When the mind is projected into the Dvadashanta and held there, it enters a state of 'Kshina-vritti,' where thoughts become thin and eventually cease. This technique is highly valued for its ability to produce rapid results, shifting the practitioner's orientation from a limited individual perspective to a localized yet trans-corporeal awareness of the divine presence.
Practice Instructions
- 01Sit in a steady posture and close your eyes. Locate the point exactly twelve finger-breadths above the crown of your head (the Brahmarandhra).
- 02Alternatively, focus on the point twelve finger-breadths in front of your nose where the breath naturally turns.
- 03Cast your entire attention to this specific point in space. Do not visualize anything; simply feel the presence of your awareness anchored at that spot.
- 04If the mind wanders, immediately bring it back to the Dvadashanta. The instruction 'yathā tathā' (wherever and however) suggests that this can be practiced in any situation.
- 05Maintain a state of alert stillness, ensuring the breath is soft and rhythmic. As you hold your focus there, observe how the thoughts begin to dissolve.
- 06Practice this consistently for several days to experience the 'extraordinary' state of consciousness described in the Tantra.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the Dvadashanta located?
Traditionally, it is the space twelve finger-widths above the head or in front of the face. For this practice, the Bahya (external) Dvadashanta above the crown is most effective. Measure with your own fingers to find the approximate area and then tune in to the subtle energy there.
What does 'extraordinary state' mean in this context?
It refers to a shift in consciousness where the practitioner feels detached from the body and experiences a sense of limitlessness. It is a state of Samadhi where the ordinary sense of 'I' is replaced by a vast, serene awareness that transcends the mundane world and its fluctuations.
Can I practice this while walking or working?
Yes. The verse says 'yathā tathā yatra tatra' (however and wherever). While initial practice should be seated and quiet, the goal is to be able to cast the mind to the Dvadashanta at any moment, maintaining a connection to the transcendent while engaged in worldly activities.
How long should I hold the focus for 'days'?
The text suggests that consistent practice over a period of days yields results. This means dedicating specific time daily (15-30 minutes) and also frequently returning to the focus throughout the day. Persistence is key to thinning the mental fluctuations (Kshina-vritti) until the new state stabilizes.
Why is the number twelve significant?
Twelve is a sacred number in Tantric physiology representing the extent of the Prana's movement beyond the body. By focusing at the limit of the Pranic field, one reaches the junction point (Sandhi) where the individual energy merges back into the universal consciousness of Shiva.
✦ ENROLL
Study all 112 Vijnana Bhairava Techniques as part of your Bachelor of Shaiva Sciences at Shiva University.
$99/month.
FREE international hotel certificate delivered within 24 hours of enrollment.
The first 100 students lock in $99/month for life.
15 Sacred Destinations
Varanasi, India (Shiva's holy city) | Bali, Indonesia | Kyoto, Japan | Rishikesh, India | Sedona, Arizona | Paris, France | Tulum, Mexico | Cancun, Mexico | Oaxaca, Mexico | Phuket, Thailand | Machu Picchu, Peru | Nairobi, Kenya | Lagos, Nigeria | Ubud, Bali | Istanbul, Turkey
Graduation bonus: FREE 7-night Bali retreat upon completion of the Bachelor of Shaiva Sciences (Month 24).