✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 13 of 112 — The Radiant Point Of Bindu
Sanskrit Verse
bhrūvorantare binduparityāgāt pūrvavat kramāt | laya-vinyāsa-saṃjñāyāṃ saṃvid-eti prabhoḥ padam ||
By focusing on the space between the eyebrows, and through the dissolution of the 'bindu' (point) as previously described, consciousness reaches the state of the Lord.
Commentary
This dharana centers on the Ajna Chakra, specifically focusing on the 'Bindu' or the concentrated point of consciousness between the eyebrows. In Kashmir Shaivism, the Bindu represents the condensation of all creative energy (Shakti) before it manifests into the external world. By fixating on this internal point, the practitioner reverses the flow of sensory perception from the objective world back to the subjective source. This is not merely a concentration exercise but a metaphysical re-alignment. The 'laya' (dissolution) mentioned in the verse refers to the systematic merging of the individual ego-consciousness into the primordial vibration of Spanda. As the mind stabilizes on the Bindu, the sense of duality between the observer and the observed begins to flicker. Eventually, the point itself 'dissolves,' leading to a state of 'nirvikalpa' or thought-free awareness. The metaphysics here suggest that the entire universe is contained within the Bindu in a potential state; thus, by penetrating this point, one accesses the totality of the Divine. The effect is a profound stillness and the dawning of 'Samvid', the pure light of consciousness that precedes all intellectual activity and sensory experience.
Practice Instructions
- 01Sit in a comfortable meditative posture such as Padmasana or Siddhasana, keeping the spine erect.
- 02Gently close your eyes and bring your internal gaze to the center of the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya).
- 03Visualize a tiny, radiant point of light, like a sparkling diamond or a minute star, located at this center.
- 04Maintain a steady, effortless focus on this Bindu. As you inhale, feel the energy from the base of the spine rise and converge at this point.
- 05As you exhale, feel the point become more concentrated and luminous. Avoid any physical tension in the eyes or forehead.
- 06After several minutes of stable visualization, imagine the point starting to expand and then suddenly dissolve into the vast, empty space of the inner sky (Chidakasha).
- 07Abandon all effort of visualization and remain as the vastness that remains. Let your individual awareness melt into the silent, all-pervasive presence of the Supreme Lord, resting in the state of pure being without any objective support.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I feel pressure in my forehead?
Pressure is a sign of excessive mental effort or physical straining of the eye muscles. Soften your internal gaze and ensure your forehead is relaxed. Instead of 'looking' at the point, 'feel' its presence. If the pressure persists, move your focus slightly further away from the physical skin into the inner space of the skull.
How do I visualize the Bindu if I am not visual by nature?
Visualization is not strictly seeing; it is a conceptual feeling of presence. If you cannot see a point of light, simply hold the 'idea' of a single point of concentration between the brows. Focus on the sensation of that specific location. The efficacy of the dharana lies in the one-pointedness of your attention, not the clarity of the image.
What is the significance of the dissolution phase?
Dissolution is the transition from 'savikalpa' (with form) to 'nirvikalpa' (without form) meditation. By dissolving the Bindu, you break the final attachment to mental objects. This mimics the cosmic process of Pralaya, where the universe returns to Shiva. It ensures you do not remain stuck in a mental construct, however holy it may seem.
Can I practice this while lying down?
While it is possible, a seated posture is preferred to maintain alertness. This dharana requires a high degree of conscious 'upward' energy flow. Lying down may lead to sleep or a dull state of mind, which is the opposite of the luminous 'Samvid' described in the text. Use a chair if sitting on the floor is difficult.
How long does it take to experience the state of the Lord?
The 'state of the Lord' can occur in a flash of recognition (Pratyabhijna) or develop gradually. Success depends on the intensity of your surrender and the steadiness of your focus. Consistency is more important than the duration of a single session. Practice daily to sensitize your consciousness to the subtler layers of your own existence.
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