Categories: Third Eye: Practical Meditation
May the blessings of the Triple Gem be with you all!
Today, through our spiritual teachings, we will explore the fifth practical meditation in our series on the third eye: the ‘Sky meditation’. This practice is a profound step forward for those on this path. Before we begin, however, it’s essential to clarify two points to ensure you’re on the right track.
First, this specific teaching is intended for those who have already established what we call the Aloka Sannā, or the ‘light sign,‘ in their practice. It is for practitioners who are beginning to see inner images or forms during their meditation.
Many of you have shared that while you may feel physical sensations like pressure on the forehead, you do not yet see this inner light. Please do not be discouraged. It is important to understand that not everyone develops the same abilities at the same time.
Each person’s journey is unique, and various skills emerge. We will explore how to develop the light sign for those who don’t yet see it in a future article. For now, this guide is for those who are already experiencing inner visions.
The ‘Sky’ and the ‘Empty’: How to Use Both Practices
The second point concerns integrating this new practice. Previously, I guided you in using the meditation word ‘His…‘ (Empty in English) to maintain mindfulness in the present moment. With the introduction of the ‘Sky meditation‘, the word you use during your formal, seated practice will change.
Here is the key distinction:
- During your formal, seated meditation session: You will now use the word ‘Ahasa…‘ (Sky in English). This is the focus of today’s teaching.
- During all other activities (the other three postures): Continue to use the word ‘His…‘ to ground your awareness in the present moment as you walk, stand, or prepare for sleep.
It is crucial to apply the ‘His…‘ sign during your daily life to maintain continuous mindfulness, while dedicating the ‘Sky practice’ specifically to your seated third eye meditation to deepen your inner vision.
From Inner Visions to the Vast Sky: A Step-by-Step Guide
For those of you who now see visions, be they images of rivers, streams, stupas (chaityas), natural landscapes, or other forms. we previously used the word ‘His…‘ to contemplate them. From today onwards, during your seated third eye meditation, you will replace ‘His…‘ with the word ‘Ahasa….’
Here is the practical method:
- Begin your meditation. When any image appears, whether it is a divine being, a demon, a spirit, a house, or a nature scene, simply observe it.
- As you look at the image, mentally repeat the word, ‘Ahasa…‘
- Continue to watch the vision and gently repeat, ‘Ahasa…‘ Then, relax for about three to five seconds. Repeat the word ‘Ahasa…‘ again.
- Maintain this rhythm: gently contemplating the vision while repeating ‘Ahasa…‘ throughout your entire seated meditation session, from the moment you begin until you finish.
The purpose of this third eye meditation technique is to use the concept of ‘Ahasa…‘ to transcend the specific forms that appear in your mind.
Embracing the Vision of the Sky: What You Might See
As you continue this practice, the vision of the sky itself may begin to appear. Some of you have already reported seeing this. For others, it will come with patient practice. The appearance of the sky can vary greatly:
- You might see a beautiful, clear blue sky.
- It could be a red or orange sky, like at sunset.
- It may appear with or without clouds.
- Sometimes, the sun or moon might be visible within this sky.
Please do not assume your experience must be exactly like someone else’s. The vision is unique to you. The essential part is that the sky appears. If it does not appear right away, do not become discouraged, frustrated, or give up your effort. With consistent practice of this third eye meditation, the vision of the sky will certainly arise one day.
Ascending into the Sky: Exploring with Your Mind-Made Body
Once the vision of the sky becomes stable, your focus must shift. If other images appear around the edges of the sky, ignore them. Your sole point of focus now is the sky itself. Do not be distracted by other visions.
Now, begin the next phase. As you gaze at the inner sky, continue repeating ‘Ahasa… Ahasa… Ahasa…‘ and intend to enter it. You may feel a sensation of your body becoming light and rising upwards. This is your Manomaya Kaya, or ‘mind-made body,’ traveling. You might feel as if you are among the clouds, or you may simply feel you are present within that space. This experience can also vary.
Once you feel you have arrived in the sky, look around and explore this vast space. Then, from this celestial vantage point, bring your home to mind. Think of your house. As you hold the thought of your home while maintaining the ‘Ahasa…‘ meditation object (kammaṭṭhāna), your home will begin to appear as a vision. You can then explore it: look inside, see the different rooms, the garden, and even the place where your Buddhist shrine is located. You will be able to see these things with your eyes closed, just as you would with them open. This is what it means for the third eye to be open.
The Fruits of Practice: The Third Eye and Your Path Forward
The initial appearance of the light sign is the beginning of the third eye opening. Seeing and navigating scenes as described in this third eye meditation means it is truly open and functioning. However, the clarity, range, and type of things you can perceive will differ for each person. This depends on the positive actions, or kusala kamma, and the meditation habits you have cultivated in past lives.
For now, continue to cultivate this practice diligently using the ‘Ahasa…‘ sign. Depending on the abilities that unfold for you, such as Manomaya Riddhi (psychic power of the mind-made body), we can offer further guidance. Feel free to reflect on your progress and share your experiences in the comments, as it can help others who are practicing to do so correctly.
Continue to practice in this correct and diligent way. This concludes our explanation for today. Continue your journey with dedication.
We invite you to walk this path with us. Read our teachings, and most importantly, apply them practically in your own life. as you practice, questions will naturally arise. Please feel free to share your experiences and questions in the comments below, via email or contact form. I will do my best to offer guidance in future talks based on your progress. For now, begin this practice with an open heart and a mind free from expectation. Cultivate it correctly, and may you find the clarity and peace you seek.
Thank you for joining us. We hope this blog will be of great benefit to your spiritual journey.
May you all be well and happy.
May the blessings of the Triple Gem be with you all!
