✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 45 of 112 — The Void Of The Heart
Sanskrit Verse
hṛdyākāśe nilīnaikṣaḥ padmasampuṭamadhyagaḥ | anyavedyavihīnātmā paraṃ bhāgyamavāpnuyāt ||
One whose eyes are absorbed in the space of the heart, centered within the lotus bud, and whose mind is devoid of any other object of perception, attains the highest fortune.
Commentary
In the metaphysics of Kashmir Shaivism, the 'Hridaya' or Heart is not merely the physical organ but the universal center of consciousness, the 'hridaya-akasha.' This dharana utilizes the internal space of the heart as a portal to the void of Bhairava. By visualizing the heart as a blooming or closed lotus bud and focusing one's internal gaze ('nilina-ikshah') within its core, the practitioner effectively bypasses the sensory filters of the external world. The 'highest fortune' mentioned in the verse refers to Shaktipata or the descent of grace, where the individual 'I' dissolves into the universal 'I-consciousness' (Ahamsvabhava). The technique works by collapsing the subject-object duality. When the mind is 'devoid of other objects,' it has no choice but to reflect its own source. This leads to a state of Samadhi where the practitioner experiences the expansive, luminous space that precedes all thought. It is an exercise in interiorization (Pratyahara) that matures into the experience of the Void (Sunya). The lotus serves as a psychic anchor, preventing the mind from wandering, while the space within provides the infinite dimension necessary for spiritual expansion.
Practice Instructions
- 01Sit in a comfortable meditative posture with your spine straight. Close your eyes and bring your entire awareness to the center of your chest.
- 02Visualize a beautiful lotus bud made of pure light situated in the 'cave of the heart. ' Gently fix your internal gaze within the center of this lotus.
- 03As you breathe naturally, imagine the space inside the lotus expanding with every inhalation and becoming more luminous with every exhalation.
- 04Do not look for images or thoughts; simply rest your attention in the emptiness within the lotus.
- 05If thoughts arise, treat them as external clouds passing by the heart-space. Gradually, feel that your own sense of self is merging into this internal void.
- 06The boundaries between your body and the heart-space should begin to blur. Remain in this state of singular focus, devoid of any other mental constructs, for at least twenty minutes until a sense of deep stillness and 'great fortune' or bliss arises.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot visualize a lotus clearly?
The lotus is a symbolic tool to anchor your focus. If a visual image does not form, simply focus on the feeling of warmth or a sense of open space in the center of your chest. The 'void' aspect is more important than the aesthetic detail of the flower itself.
Does this technique relate to the physical heart?
While the physical chest area is the starting point, the 'Hridaya' refers to the spiritual center. You may initially feel physical sensations, but the goal is to transcend the physical body and enter the subtle space (Akasha) that exists beyond the anatomical structure of the heart organ.
How do I deal with distracting thoughts during this practice?
The verse specifies being 'devoid of other objects.' When a thought arises, do not fight it. Acknowledge it and immediately return your 'inner sight' to the center of the heart-lotus. Continuous return to the center eventually starves the thoughts of energy, leading to a state of mental emptiness.
What is the 'highest fortune' mentioned in the verse?
In Tantric terms, this is 'Param Bhagyama,' representing the supreme realization of one's identity with Shiva. It is not material wealth but the spiritual riches of liberation (Mukti) and the ecstatic experience of the true nature of reality, which is pure, unconditioned consciousness.
Can I practice this while lying down?
While sitting is preferred to maintain alertness, you can practice this in Shavasana if you are physically unable to sit. However, the key is 'nilina-ikshah'—absorbed gaze. Ensure you do not fall asleep, as the practice requires a high degree of lucid internal awareness and centeredness.
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