✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 25 of 112 — The Radiant Point Of Light
Sanskrit Verse
yathā tathā yatra tatra dvādaśānte manaḥ kṣipet | pratikṣaṇaṃ ksīṇavṛttir-vailakṣaṇyaṃ dinair-bhavet ||
Whenever and wherever the mind is cast into the Dvadasanta, at every moment the fluctuations of the mind are extinguished, and within a few days, a unique transformation occurs.
Commentary
This dharana focuses on the 'Dvadasanta', the twelve-finger space beyond the physical body, specifically above the crown of the head. In Kashmir Shaivism, this point represents the threshold between the individual soul (Jiva) and the universal consciousness (Shiva). The metaphysics here suggest that by projecting the mind outside the physical constraints of the skull into this void-space, the practitioner bypasses the habitual neurological loops and discursive thoughts (vrittis) that define mundane existence. The 'extinguishing of fluctuations' (ksinavritti) mentioned in the verse is not a forceful suppression but a natural dissolution occurring because the mind has no sensory objects to latch onto in the emptiness of the Dvadasanta. Over time, this practice leads to 'vailaksanyam', a radical state of extraordinary spiritual excellence or a transformation of the very substance of one's awareness. It is a transition from 'pashu' (the bound soul) to 'pati' (the master/lord). By consistently placing the 'bindu' of attention in this external space, the internal dualities of subject and object begin to collapse into a singular, luminous field of pure being.
Practice Instructions
- 01Begin by sitting in a stable posture with your spine erect. Close your eyes and take several deep breaths to settle your energy.
- 02Locate the space approximately twelve finger-widths above the crown of your head (the Urdhva-Dvadasanta).
- 03Do not try to visualize a complex image; instead, project the entirety of your awareness or a small point of brilliant white light into that specific void.
- 04Whenever a thought arises, do not fight it; simply cast the mind back up into that empty space above you.
- 05Imagine your sense of 'I' is no longer located behind your eyes, but is suspended in the air above your head.
- 06Maintain this external focal point steadily. As you continue, you may feel a sensation of lightness or a cooling energy at the crown.
- 07Stay in this state of externalized focus, allowing the internal mental chatter to fade into the background until only the silent, radiant space remains.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot accurately measure the twelve finger-widths?
The distance of twelve finger-widths is a traditional guideline rather than a rigid physical requirement. It signifies a point just beyond the reach of the physical senses. Aim for roughly 8 to 10 inches above the crown. The key is the intentionality of placing awareness outside the body, not the mathematical precision of the measurement.
Why does the verse say 'whenever and wherever'?
This indicates that the practice is not restricted to formal meditation. Once you have mastered the sensation of the Dvadasanta, you can project your mind there while walking, eating, or working. It serves as a constant anchor in the transcendent, allowing you to remain centered in Shiva-consciousness amidst the chaotic activities of daily life.
Is it normal to feel dizzy during this practice?
Slight lightheadedness can occur as energy shifts upward. If you feel unstable, ground yourself by focusing on the base of the spine for a moment before returning to the Dvadasanta. Ensure you are not straining your physical eyes upward; the gaze should be internal and relaxed, moving the mind rather than the ocular muscles.
What is the 'unique transformation' mentioned?
Vailaksanyam refers to a state where the practitioner's perception of reality fundamentally shifts. You stop identifying with the limited ego and start experiencing yourself as the vast, unconditioned space of consciousness. It is a qualitative change in the flavor of your awareness, making it more subtle, stable, and permeated with a quiet, pervasive joy.
Can I use a mantra while doing this?
While the verse emphasizes the 'casting of the mind' as a silent act, a subtle 'Om' or 'Hamsa' can be used initially to help lift the attention. However, the goal is to reach a state of 'ksinavritti' or stillness, so eventually, any internal verbalization should be dropped in favor of pure, wordless spatial awareness.
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