The practice
Hold in mind that which cannot be known — because knowing needs an object — cannot be grasped, and yet cannot be called non-existent either. Do not solve this. Hold all three at once and let the holding continue past the point where the mind wants a resolution.
What it works on
This is a contemplation built to defeat the faculty attempting it. Each clause closes off one exit, and what the text points to is the state left when the mind has stopped looking for the door.
Notes
- Frustration is part of it. Sit with the frustration rather than abandoning the practice.
Practise gently
Shoonyaka offers educational and contemplative material, not medical, psychological or religious authority. Nothing here diagnoses or treats any condition. Stop any practice that leaves you dizzy, frightened or unwell, and treat a strong reaction as a reason to rest rather than to push on.