The Dualistic Fantasy of Spirituality: An Exploration of Advaita

In the pursuit of spirituality, many of us seek to distance ourselves from the limitations and imperfections of our humanity. We seek teachers who seem to embody a superior level of consciousness, and work to eliminate the undesirable aspects of ourselves that we associate with being human. However, this approach is rooted in a dualistic fantasy that separates us from the very source of our being.

Advaita, a non-dual philosophy, offers a different perspective. It recognizes that there is no separation between the human and the divine. Instead, it asserts that all things, including the human experience, are expressions of the same universal consciousness. By embracing this understanding, we can release the notion that our personal experiences are somehow "less than" or a blemish on the purity of the universe.

One of the key insights of Advaita is that the personal "I" is an illusion. There is no truly separate self, and the personal pronouns we use are merely symbols of our limited understanding. Recognizing this, we can release the false notion that we are responsible for correcting our perceived shortcomings, and instead surrender to the understanding that all experiences, both seemingly desirable and undesirable, are necessary and valuable aspects of the whole.

This shift in perspective can bring about a profound sense of peace and liberation. We are no longer trapped in the dualistic fantasy of seeking to transcend our humanity, but can instead fully embrace and express all aspects of our being.

Advaita invites us to embrace a new way of viewing ourselves and the world around us. Rather than striving for some distant, idealized state of consciousness, it encourages us to fully embrace and celebrate the unique expression of the divine that each of us embodies.

In conclusion, the dualistic fantasy of spirituality perpetuates the illusion of separation and reinforces feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. Advaita offers an alternative approach, inviting us to fully embrace our humanity as an integral part of the divine whole.

For those seeking to deepen their understanding of Advaita, we recommend the following works:

• "I Am That" by Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj
• "The Heart of Awareness" by Ram Tzu
• "The Power of Non-Duality" by John Wheeler.