Dimensions of Emptiness

Inner Frontier
Fourth Way Spiritual Practice

A Contemplation: The Dimensions of Emptiness

How can we understand, even if only in theory, the idea of emptiness as the root of spirituality? Consider for a moment a geometric analogy:

A line measures its size in terms of length. A point has no length. So from the perspective of a line, a point is nothing, empty. Yet, if it could think, the point might consider itself to be something substantial.

A flat surface measures its size in terms of area. A line has no area. The line is empty, nothing from the standpoint of the surface. Yet, if it could think, the line might consider itself to be something substantial.

A solid measures its size in terms of volume. A flat surface has no volume and therefore is nothing from the point of view of the solid, even though the solid may touch the surface at every point.

To relate properly to the higher realms, we must accept and enter our own emptiness with respect to the Greatness that surrounds and permeates us. The Infinite is not merely larger than the knowable universe: it has more dimensions. Emptying ourselves of our self-centered view enables us to take our proper place in the greater world, in our true home.

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