Dearest Ramji,
Is it correct to say that the gunas are just one force that changes quality as frequency of its vibrations change, leading to different appearances or qualities of manifested phenomena?
Ram: Yes, they are the only force. The implied meaning of “just one force” is that there are other forces so only is a better word but from the context that’s what you mean by the word one, I believe. We don’t say that reality is one because that implies more than one. We say non-dual.
Vibration is all there is to manifestations. The property of space is sound which is vibrations, not physical sound Indeed, the subtle point is the key in these email exchanges and I think I best setup a time to talk if you see that it will further the understanding.
Ram: It is probably best, although as I mentioned in the last email I think word usage, not understanding is the problem. Yes, get the questions ready and we can chat. Speaking is easier for me than writing. It’s a technical issue. However, how the apparent reality (the world) evolves is not an essential issue, which is: identifying one’s self as unborn existence shining as ever-full (anandam) consciousness as you know.
I think you are referring to Isvara’s subtle body which is “mental sound,” which is to say the essential ideas that generate the appearance of a solid world before each subtle element (space, air, fire, water and earth) divide and recombine to produce the gross elements. The Self “hears,” which means that it knows the qualities of the different elements. The elements are called tanmatras in Sanskrit. It is a valuable teaching because people take images presented by the senses to be direct perception of actual substances when, in fact, they are only approximate substitutes or imitations, simulacra if you want a fancy word. Because we identify with the sense instruments, the eyes for instance, we assume that what they see is reality. But it never is. Looking through the senses is like look through sunglasses.
Otherwise contemplating will go on until we meet again, no worries.
Ram: Well, it’s best to be sure that you have a clear nuanced understanding of the teachings. If there is lack of clarity, then the conclusions you arrive at will be inaccurate.
Yes, Persian culture has deeply woven bhakti until the bulk of it got hijacked by blinded fanatics of religion. Rumi’s quote, whose work moved me from dry religious beliefs/practices to truth seeking, which finally makes sense. I can no longer tell where I end and where you begin!
Ram: There is no difference. I can tell that this statement is born out of a profound understanding because the bhakti is there. It is not just an intellectual conviction.
PS: The next time you need something specific to help with the teaching please let me know. I could have gotten the computer LONG ago had I known. Not being vain about my finances, I am not very rich but God has always made my ends meet by no choice/effort of mine. However, I have learned some things are worth spending on even if I have to “do” extra work or empty any reserves.
Can’t buy you a private jet, ( yet) !!
Love and gratitude to you and Sundari,
Ram: How about a yacht instead? 🙂
