|
7.
1
[The Fifth Method of Closing the Womb-Door]
|
|
|
|
|
7.
2
Still, even when this is done, if the holding [phenomena] as real remaineth undissolved, the wombdoor is not closed; and, if one be ready to enter into the womb, thereupon one should close the wombdoor by meditating upon the Clear Light, this being the fifth [method]. The meditation is performed as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
7.
3
'Lo! All substances are mine own mind; and this mind is vacuousness, is unborn, and unceasing.'
|
|
|
|
|
7.
4
Thus meditating, allow the mind to rest in the uncreated [state] -- like, for example, the pouring of water into water. The mind should be allowed its own easy mental posture, in its natural [or unmodified] condition, clear and vibrant. By maintaining this relaxed, uncreated [state of mind], the womb-doors of the four kinds of birth are sure to be closed. Meditate thus until the closing is successfully accomplished.
|
|
|
|
|
7.
5
[Instructions to the Officiant]: Many very profound teachings for closing the womb-door have been given above. It is impossible that they should not liberate people of the highest, the average, and the lowest intellectual capacity. If it be asked why this should be so, it is because, firstly, the consciousness in the Bardo possessing supernormal power of perception of a limited kind, whatever is spoken to one then is apprehended. Secondly, because -- although [formerly] deaf or blind -- here, at this time, all one's faculties are perfect, and one can hear whatever is addressed to one. Thirdly, being continually pursued by awe and terror, one thinketh, 'What is best?' and, being alertly conscious, one is always coming to hear whatever may be told to one. Since the consciousness is without a prop, it immediately goeth to whatever place the mind directeth. Fourthly, it is easy to direct it. The memory is ninefold more lucid than before. Even though stupid [before], at this time, by the workings of karma, the intellect becometh exceedingly clear and capable of meditating whatever is taught to it. [Hence the answer is], it is because it [i.e. the Knower] possesseth these virtues.
|
|
|
|
|
7.
6
That the performance of funeral rites should be efficacious, is, likewise, because of that reason. Therefore, the perseverance in the reading of the Great Bardo Thödol for forty-nine days is of the utmost importance. Even if not liberated at one setting-face-to-face, one ought to be liberated at another; this is why so many different settings-face-to-face are necessary.
|
|
|
|
|
