Samsara - our conditioned existence in the perpetual cycle of habitual tendencies and nirvana - genuine freedom from such an existence- are nothing but different manifestations of a basic continuum. So this continuity of consciousness us always present. This is the meaning of tantra.
Interpretation
Samsara and nirvana represent two states of existence, where one is conditioned and habitual, and the other is free and enlightened.
In this quote, the Dalai Lama highlights the interconnectedness of samsara, the cycle of conditioned existence filled with habitual tendencies, and nirvana, which represents true freedom from those conditions. He emphasizes that both states are merely different expressions of the same underlying continuum of consciousness, illustrating the importance of awareness and understanding in transcending ordinary existence through the teachings of tantra.
In practice
During a meditation workshop, one could share this quote to explain the cycle of human experience.
Human beings are not intrinsically selfish, which isolates us from others. We are essentially social animals who depend on others to meet our needs. We achieve happiness, prosperity and progress through social interaction. Therefore, having a kind and helpful attitude contributes to our own and others' happiness.
Material objects give rise to physical happiness, while spiritual development gives rise to mental happiness. Since we experience both physical and mental happiness, we need both material and spiritual development. This is why, for our own good and that of society we need to balance material progress with inner development.
All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives.
The ultimate source of a happy life is warm-heartedness. This means extending to others the kind of concern we have for ourselves. On a simple level we find that if we have a compassionate heart we naturally have more friends. And scientists today are discovering that while anger and hatred eat into our immune system, warm-heartedness and compassion are good for our health.
My religion is kindness. _x000D_ A good mind, a good heart, _x000D_ warm feelings these are _x000D_ the most important things.
If a person's basic state of mind is serene and calm, then it is possible for this inner peace to overwhelm a painful physical experience. On the other hand, if someone is suffering from depression, anxiety, or any form of emotional distress, then even if he or she happens to be enjoying physical comforts, he will not really be able to experience the happiness that these could bring.
I am as bad as the worst, but, thank God, I am as good as the best.
Rome remained free for four hundred years and Sparta eight hundred, although their citizens were armed all that time; but many other states that have been disarmed have lost their liberties in less than forty years.
Philosophic meditation is an accomplishment by which I attain Being and my own self, not impartial thinking which studies a subject with indifference.
Peace and love are ever in us, being and working; but we be not alway in peace and in love.
Everything is fraught with fear: Renunciation alone is fearless.
When I go from hence, let this be my parting word, that what I have seen is unsurpassable.
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