✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 98 of 112 — The Radiant Dissolution Of Skin
Sanskrit Verse
tvagādiśūnyaṃ mṛdvantaḥ paśyenmanasamīkṣayā | kiñcinnaiva vibhāvyaṃ hi sarvaṃ śūnyamayaṃ bhavet ||
One should perceive the skin and other tissues as empty, looking within with a steady mind. When nothing remains to be contemplated, everything becomes the void.
Commentary
Dharana 98 takes the spatial awareness of the previous technique and applies a more analytical, yet mystical, deconstruction of the physical layers. Starting with the 'tvak' (skin), the practitioner uses the 'manasamīkṣayā' (the eye of the mind) to peer beneath the surface. This is a process of systematic negation. By looking into the body and finding no permanent, solid core, the practitioner experiences the 'mrdvanta'—the softness or emptiness within. The metaphysical goal is to reach a state where 'kiñcinnaiva vibhāvyaṃ' (nothing remains to be contemplated). When the mind runs out of objects to fixate upon, it has no choice but to turn back upon itself. This reflexivity reveals the Bhairava-state. The skin is traditionally the boundary of the ego; by mentally dissolving it, the practitioner breaks the primary cage of the soul, allowing the individual consciousness to merge into the universal void of the absolute.
Practice Instructions
- 01Close your eyes and bring your attention to the surface of your skin. Mentally peel away this layer and look at the tissues, muscles, and bones beneath.
- 02Do not view them as solid, but as a fine mist or a collection of vibrating particles. Move your awareness deeper into the marrow, and then even deeper into the spaces between particles.
- 03Search for a solid core and find that there is none. As each layer is identified and then recognized as empty, let the mind rest in that emptiness.
- 04Finally, let go of the process of 'looking' itself. When there is nothing left to observe or deconstruct, let your awareness settle into the pure, objectless void that remains.
- 05Stay in this state of 'nothingness' for as long as possible.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this technique involve anatomical visualization?
It is not a medical study but a meditative deconstruction. You don't need perfect anatomical knowledge. The intent is to look 'through' the appearance of solidity. Whether you visualize mist, light, or simply a lack of substance, the key is the psychological shift from seeing a 'thing' to seeing 'no-thing'.
What should I do if I feel fear during this process?
Fear is a natural reaction of the ego facing its own dissolution. If fear arises, breathe deeply and remember that the consciousness observing the emptiness is itself indestructible. You are moving from a limited identity to an unlimited one. Reassure yourself that this 'void' is actually your most natural and peaceful state.
Why is this considered an advanced level practice?
It requires a high degree of 'one-pointedness' (ekagrata) to systematically deconstruct the body without getting distracted by sensations or stray thoughts. Furthermore, the final stage—resting in a state where nothing is contemplated—requires the ability to remain conscious without the support of any mental object, which is quite challenging for beginners.
Can I use this for physical healing?
While the primary goal is spiritual liberation, dissolving the mental concept of 'disease' or 'pain' as a solid entity can have profound healing effects. By seeing the body as empty, you remove the mental tension that often locks pain in place, allowing the body's natural energetic flow to restore itself without obstruction.
How long should I stay in the 'nothingness' phase?
Stay as long as the mind remains clear and alert. The moment you feel yourself slipping into a dull, sleepy state or starting to daydream, gently conclude the practice. The quality of the awareness—its sharpness and clarity within the void—is much more important than the chronological duration of the session.
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