Beyond Good and Evil: Exploring Spiritual Justice in Nondualistic Philosophy
6,556 words · 50 min read
More and more people recognize that conflicts and social issues may never cease. In this conversation, and with the assistance of an AI, I delve into the perspectives of nondualistic philosophies on the subject. I discuss the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of all things and how this can inspire artists and creators to explore spiritual justice through their work and bring inner peace to those affected by the pressures of media, news, and politics, both domestically and internationally. I intend to delve into the concept of spiritual justice and discover how its nondualistic philosophy application can contribute to a vision of a world that is both peaceful and loving.
Table of Contents
Heaven as a State of Mind: A Deeper Exploration of A Course In Miracles
A Course in Miracles' Unique Perspective on Justice and Fairness
Comparing Spiritual Justice in Nondualistic Philosophies: Daoism, Advaita Vedanta, and Zen Buddhism
Exploring Spiritual Justice and Controversies Among Non-believers
Conflicts and injustices have always inspired creators and artists to find solutions and build experiential reflections. However, there is a growing realization that these issues may only cease once we prioritize cultivating inner peace and stillness.
In recent years, I have created a series of works directly inspired by traumatic events in my life and events in the news, including digital paintings, prints, design objects, and furniture pieces. I approached these events through the lens of creative mediums, using art to force myself to confront the horrors we face and look at them from an inner perspective. I wanted to explore solutions via a type of creation that would ultimately send the question of who we are given our conditioning and confusion.
Through my art, I began to explore the subject of justice in the world and what needed to happen on both a large scale and locally, even in my behavior. I wanted to understand why we fight, why we rebel, and why we present as victims. My art allowed me to explore these questions creatively and meaningfully and helped me better understand the nature of spiritual justice and its importance in our world. Through art exploration, the subject of justice in this world would become a subject of spiritual justice, and I wanted to understand what it meant to focus on that now.
I am currently exploring the nondualist philosophies and embracing that they recognize the world as an illusion, as a means of cultivating inner peace, gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world, and working towards a justice that would benefit all beings.
With the help of an AI, I delve into the concept of spiritual justice presented in various nondualistic philosophies, including Advaita Vedanta, Daoism, Zen Buddhism, and the Course In Miracles. In this conversation, I explore how these philosophies approach the concept of justice and offer a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of all things, the limitations of conventional notions of justice and fairness, and the importance of cultivating inner peace and stillness.
Since Nondualism emphasizes the underlying unity of all things and recognizes that the dualistic concepts of self and other are illusory, I discuss the unique perspectives presented in its texts, highlighting their similarities and differences. I explore how recognizing the interconnectedness of all things can help us see the world in a new light and how letting go of judgment and cultivating inner peace can lead us toward peace, love, and perhaps "true" justice. Can one cultivate compassion and understanding towards others, even the perpetrators, and let go of judgment and ego-based thinking?
Whether you are new to nondualistic philosophy or a seasoned practitioner, this conversation can inspire you to explore the concept of spiritual justice in your life and creative practice.
When discussing justice in a spiritual reality, it can be challenging to find specific terminology that encapsulates the concept. However, we can use several terms to describe the idea of spiritual justice. One term is "spiritual justice," which refers to a sense of fairness and balance based on spiritual principles like love, compassion, and forgiveness rather than external rules or judgments. Another term is "universal justice," which operates at the level of the universe or natural world and is based on the idea that we receive what we give.
A third term is "cosmic harmony," which refers to a state of balance and alignment between all beings and the natural world, seen as the ultimate goal of spiritual practice. Fourth, "nondual justice" recognizes the fundamental interconnectedness of all beings and the illusion of separation and duality. Finally, "natural law" governs all existence and operates according to natural and universal laws.
These terms can have origins in different philosophical and spiritual traditions. For example, cosmic harmony is a fundamental aspect of Daoism, referred to as Tian or the "Heavenly Way." In contrast, Advaita Vedanta sees natural law and nondual justice as fundamental aspects of reality. Zen Buddhism emphasizes the concept of universal justice and the importance of living in harmony with the natural order of things. A Course in Miracles also emphasizes the Justice of Heaven, based on love, compassion, and forgiveness.
The concept of the justice of Heaven in A Course In Miracles recognizes the inherent unity of all things and lets go of dualistic concepts such as justice and injustice.
Overall, these terms and their origins highlight the diverse ways spiritual traditions approach the concept of justice in a spiritual reality.
How do nondualistic philosophies view spiritual reality? Is it a physical place or a state of mind? In these philosophies, the focus is on recognizing the true nature of reality and our place within it, rather than leaving the physical world behind.
In "A Course In Miracles" (ACIM), which uses Christian terminology, spiritual reality is often called Heaven or the Kingdom of God, seen as a state of mind rather than a physical place outside of this world. The Course emphasizes that we can access this state of mind through forgiveness and a willingness to let go of the ego's illusions and judgments.
Similarly, in Daoism, the concept of spiritual reality is often referred to as the Tao, understanding it as the underlying unity of all things. The focus is on cultivating a sense of Oneness with the Tao through mindfulness and stillness rather than leaving the physical world behind.
In Zen Buddhism, spiritual reality is often called Nirvana or enlightenment, understood as a state of mind that transcends the dualistic ideas of good and evil, self and other. The focus is on cultivating awareness and letting go of attachment to external outcomes or judgments.
In Advaita Vedanta, the concept of spiritual reality is often referred to as Brahman, understood as the ultimate reality underlying all things. The focus is on recognizing the true nature of reality and our place within it and letting go of the dualistic concepts of self and other.
In these nondualistic philosophies, the concept of spiritual reality is often seen as a state of mind rather than a physical place outside of this world. The focus is on recognizing the true nature of reality and our place within it and cultivating a sense of Oneness.
How can a spiritual text like A Course In Miracles, which is relatively new compared to other ancient pillars of nondualistic philosophy, be deemed significant and fundamental? Despite only being around for 50 years, ACIM has considerably impacted the contemporary spiritual landscape. Although texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Tao Te Ching are centuries or millennia old, we cannot dismiss the influence and reach of ACIM. As Eckhart Tolle, a prominent spiritual teacher, has said about ACIM:
"ACIM represents a powerful synthesis of the nondualistic teachings of Vedanta, Buddhism, Taoism, and other Eastern and Western traditions. Its message of radical forgiveness and the power of the present moment has had a profound impact on the spiritual landscape of our time."
The principles and teachings of ACIM align with the fundamental tenets of nondualistic philosophy, such as recognizing the illusionary nature of the world and the importance of inner peace and stillness in accessing a more profound spiritual truth. Therefore, ACIM's impact and significance should be considered.
In A Course In Miracles, what is meant by the term Heaven? Is it a physical place or a state of being? According to the text, Heaven is a state of consciousness that can be experienced in the present moment rather than attained after death.
In ACIM, Heaven is a central tenet of its teachings. While often associated with Christian theology, the Course presents a unique perspective on Heaven and its relationship to the human experience. The Course teaches that accessing Heaven is not about earning a physical place or a reward but rather about experiencing a state of mind through a shift in perception.
ACIM defines Heaven as a state of perfect peace, love, and joy that is always available to us but which we often block from our awareness by identifying with the ego and its limiting beliefs and perceptions. The Course teaches that we can experience Heaven by choosing to see the world and ourselves differently through the lens of forgiveness and recognizing our shared identity as part of a universal consciousness or God.
ACIM suggests that our true home is not a physical place but a spiritual reality beyond the limitations of time and space. It teaches that we can access this reality through the practice of forgiveness, which involves letting go of our judgments and grievances and seeing the world with new eyes, guided by the Holy Spirit or the Voice of God within us.
Overall, the concept of Heaven in ACIM is not a literal place or destination but rather a state of mind and a way of perceiving the world available to us in the present moment.
A Course In Miracles offers a unique perspective on justice and fairness through the concept of the Justice of Heaven. Unlike the justice of the world, which often revolves around revenge and punishment, the Justice of Heaven finds its roots in spiritual principles such as love, compassion, and forgiveness. As Lesson 118 states, "The justice of the world is not the justice of God." Similarly, Lesson 153 notes, "The world's justice is revenge," and Chapter 3 states, "The world believes in punishment and therefore practices it." Instead of seeking revenge or punishment, the Course teaches that we can remember the truth and experience the Justice of Heaven by recognizing and forgiving the illusions and injustices of the world. As Lesson 192 says, "The way to remember the truth is to see injustice and recognize it is not true."
Another quote from A Course in Miracles that could expand on the concept of the Justice of Heaven is:
"The way to correct distortions is to withdraw your faith in them and invest it only in what is true. You cannot make untruth true. If you are willing to accept what is true in everything you perceive, you let it be true for you." (Chapter 13)
This quote emphasizes that achieving justice in the world requires recognizing the truth and letting go of distortions, such as the belief in punishment and revenge.
The Course has an entire section devoted to the "Justice of Heaven," which offers a new perspective on justice and its relationship to God or the divine. In this section, the Course emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and the limitations of conventional concepts of justice and fairness.
It suggests that recognizing the underlying unity of all things and being willing to let go of attachment to external outcomes or judgments are essential for finding true justice.
The concept of the Justice of Heaven in ACIM is closely related to the idea of forgiveness. The Course teaches that the Justice of Heaven operates according to the principle that what we give, we receive. Our life experiences reflect the thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes we hold in our minds.
When we hold onto anger, judgment, and resentment towards others, we attack ourselves, reinforcing the belief in separation and guilt. However, when we forgive others and release our judgments and grievances, we free ourselves from the cycle of suffering and invite healing and peace into our lives.
The Justice of Heaven, therefore, is not about punishment or retribution but rather about the natural consequences of our thoughts and actions. When we align our minds with the principle of forgiveness and extend love and compassion towards ourselves and others, we create a positive ripple effect that can bring healing and transformation to the world around us.
How can the concept Justice of Heaven in A Course In Miracles be used to deal with feelings of distress over perceived injustices in the news?
One paragraph from A Course In Miracles that represents the concept of the Justice of Heaven is the following:
"The justice of Heaven is the idea of balance. What you perceive as unjust is merely a lack of balance, which is not caused by an external event but by the fact that you are not seeing things accurately." (Chapter 26)
This passage offers a unique perspective on justice and fairness by suggesting that what we perceive as injustices in the world is a lack of balance caused by our inaccurate perception. By recognizing our responsibility in perceiving the world, we can shift our focus from external events and outcomes to our inner consciousness. In this way, we can use the concept of the Justice of Heaven to deal with feelings of distress over perceived injustices in the news by recognizing that our perception is the root cause of our misery, and by cultivating inner peace and forgiveness, we can restore balance to our mind and the world around us.
Furthermore, ACIM reminds us that justice and injustice are concepts specific to separation and duality and do not exist in Heaven's ultimate reality.
"Justice is the divine correction for injustice. Injustice is the basis for all the judgments of the world. Justice corrects the interpretations to which injustice gives rise and cancels them out. Neither justice nor injustice exists in Heaven, for error is impossible and correction meaningless. In this world, however, forgiveness depends on correction since those who are unjust do not know the meaning of forgiveness and cannot offer it." (ACIM, Chapter 25, Section VII)
This paragraph suggests that we often base our perception of injustice on a limited and ego-centered perspective. The only proper correction for injustice is realizing our shared identity and extending forgiveness and love to all beings.
If we start getting upset about something on the news or feel a sense of injustice, we can remember this paragraph and use it as a reminder to shift our perspective toward forgiveness and compassion. We can ask ourselves how to extend love and understanding to all involved rather than getting caught up in the cycle of judgment and anger. We can also remember that the Justice of Heaven operates according to the principle of what we give and receive. By extending forgiveness and compassion, we can create a positive ripple effect that can bring healing and transformation to the world around us.
When examining the given paragraph from the Course, how does nondual forgiveness contrast with our common understanding of forgiveness? The concept of forgiveness in A Course In Miracles differs in that it is based on the principles of Nondualism.
Nondual forgiveness involves recognizing the inherent unity of all things and letting go of the dualistic concepts of right and wrong, good and evil, and justice and injustice.
It involves recognizing that all individuals are ultimately part of a greater whole and that any harm or injustice done to one is ultimately damage done to all.
In the quoted paragraph, the Course suggests that justice is the divine correction for injustice and that injustice is the basis for all the world's judgments. The Course teaches that justice corrects the interpretations to which injustice gives rise and cancels them out. However, the Course also emphasizes that neither justice nor injustice exists in Heaven, as error is impossible and correction meaningless.
In our world, the Course suggests that forgiveness depends on correction since unjust people do not know the meaning of forgiveness and cannot offer it. Nondual forgiveness, therefore, involves a recognition that forgiveness is not about condoning or excusing harmful behavior but rather about recognizing the inherent unity of all things and letting go of judgment and attachment to external outcomes or decisions.
How does A Course In Miracles view the idea of fairness and justice in this world? According to the Course, our perception of justice is based on the illusion of separation and the belief in individuality. The only true justice is recognizing our shared identity as part of a universal consciousness or God and extending love and forgiveness to all beings. The Course teaches that, in the ultimate sense, no one is mistreated, as the world we experience is a projection of our thoughts and beliefs.
This does not mean that ACIM followers believe that there is no suffering or injustice in the world, but rather that our perception of these things is based on a limited and ego-centered perspective. The Course teaches us to transcend this perspective by recognizing our thoughts' power and aligning our minds with love, forgiveness, and Oneness.
According to ACIM, true justice is not about punishing or judging others but recognizing our shared identity and extending compassion and forgiveness to all beings. The teaching emphasizes that we can still work towards creating a more just and equitable world. Still, we do so from a place of compassion and understanding rather than from a place of anger, judgment, or a belief in separation.
Let's now delve into the comparisons of spiritual justice in various nondualistic philosophies, namely Advaita Vedanta, Daoism, and Zen Buddhism, highlighting the importance of cultivating wisdom and compassion in our thoughts and actions.
In Daoism, practitioners refer to the concept of Heaven as Tian or the "Heavenly Way." Tian is understood not as a physical place but as a state of harmony and balance between the natural world and the human experience. This state is often associated with the idea of the Dao, which is the underlying principle that governs all of existence. Similar to the concept of Brahman in Advaita Vedanta, practitioners do not see Tian as a separate realm that one goes to after death but rather as a state of being that individuals can experience in the present moment through the practice of aligning themselves with the natural flow of the universe.
In Daoism, justice is a natural outcome of living in harmony with the Dao, which is the underlying principle that governs all of existence. When we live in alignment with the Dao, we experience a sense of inner peace and contentment, and we naturally act in ways that benefit ourselves and others.
One quote from the Tao Te Ching that reflects the idea that justice arises from living in harmony with the Dao is:
"When the Tao is lost, there is goodness. When goodness is lost, there is morality. When morality is lost, there is ritual. Ritual is the husk of true faith, the beginning of chaos.
Therefore the Master concerns himself with the depths and not the surface, with the fruit and not the flower. He has no will of his own. He dwells in reality, and lets all illusions go." (Chapter 38)
This passage emphasizes the importance of aligning oneself with the Dao, the underlying principle of all existence, and not getting caught up in surface-level concepts such as morality or ritual. By dwelling in reality and letting go of illusions, one can live in harmony with the natural order of things and experience inner peace and contentment, naturally leading to a just and balanced way of being.
While the specific terminology and descriptions may differ, nondual philosophies often base their core principles of justice and fairness, judgment, and punishment on recognizing our interconnectedness and emphasizing the importance of cultivating wisdom and compassion in our thoughts and actions.
A passage from Chapter 20 of the Tao Te Ching presents a distinct perspective on justice which can aid individuals in shifting their mindset. Here's the translation of the passage:
"Stop thinking, and end your problems. What difference between yes and no? What difference between success and failure? Must you value what others value, avoid what others avoid? How ridiculous!
Other people are excited, as though they were at a parade. I alone don't care, I alone am expressionless, like an infant before it can smile.
Other people have what they need; I alone possess nothing. I alone drift about, like someone without a home. I am like an idiot, my mind is so empty.
Other people are bright; I alone am dark. Other people are sharp; I alone am dull. Other people have a purpose; I alone don't know. I drift like a wave on the ocean, I blow as aimless as the wind.
I am different from ordinary people. I drink from the Great Mother's breasts."
This passage suggests that when we stop thinking and trying to impose our judgments and interpretations on the world, we can enter into a state of peace and harmony with the natural flow of the universe.
By recognizing our inherent emptiness and lack of knowledge, we can approach the world with humility and openness, and allow ourselves to be guided by life's natural rhythms and cycles. In this way, we can cultivate a deep understanding of trust in the Tao, or the underlying principle that governs all of existence, and let go of our attachment to external concepts of justice and fairness.
In Advaita Vedanta, the ultimate reality is Brahman, which is a state of pure consciousness, infinite bliss, and unbounded awareness. This state is often compared to the concept of Heaven in Western religions, as it is a state of ultimate peace, joy, and fulfillment that is not dependent on external circumstances. However, Brahman is the underlying reality that permeates all of existence, including the individual self or Atman.
In Advaita Vedanta, the concept of justice is closely linked to the idea of karma, which refers to the law of cause and effect. According to this view, our actions in this life result from our past actions and thoughts, and our current ones will shape our future experiences. Therefore, life's goal is not to seek retribution or punishment for past actions but to work towards self-realization and recognizing our true nature as Brahman.
The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred text that inspired the Advaita Vedanta philosophy, and it offers insights into the relationship between justice and stability. One verse that illustrates this is Chapter 12, Verse 18, which describes the characteristics of a person dear to Krishna, the deity who speaks in the text.
"One who is equal to friends and enemies, who is equipoised in honor and dishonor, heat and cold, happiness and distress, fame and infamy, who is always free from contaminating association, always silent and satisfied with anything, who doesn't care for any residence, who is fixed in knowledge and who is engaged in devotional service – such a person is very dear to Me." (Chapter 12, Verse 18)
The following verses from Chapter 2 illustrate some of the teachings of the Gita:
"The embodied soul is eternal in existence, indestructible, and infinite, only the material body is factually perishable. Therefore, fight, O Arjuna." (Chapter 2, Verse 30)
"Be steadfast in yoga, O Arjuna. Perform your duty and abandon all attachment to success or failure. Such evenness of mind is called yoga." (Chapter 2, Verse 48)
These passages suggest that finding true justice and stability requires a willingness to let go of attachment to external outcomes or judgments.
The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of seeing beyond the illusions of the world and recognizing the eternal nature of the soul, as well as the need for inner peace and stillness to navigate the world's challenges with grace and equanimity.
In Zen Buddhism, the concept of "original nature" or "Buddha-nature" refers to the fundamental nature of all beings, which is inherently pure and awakened but often obscured by our conditioning and attachments. In terms of justice, Zen Buddhism emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with the natural order of things and the importance of personal responsibility and ethical conduct.
Zazen, or seated meditation, is central to Zen Buddhism. Through this practice, practitioners can cultivate awareness and insight into the nature of reality and their minds. This awareness can lead to a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of living in a way aligned with the universe's natural order.
Here's a Zen Buddhist master story that relates to the concept of spiritual justice:
Once, a monk asked Master Hakuin, "What happens to a man of enlightenment after he dies?"
Master Hakuin replied, "How should I know?"
"But you're a Zen master!" the monk protested.
"Yes, I am," replied Master Hakuin. "But not a dead one."
This story highlights the Zen emphasis on living in the present moment and not getting caught up in abstract concepts or speculation about the afterlife. Instead, the focus is on cultivating awareness and living in harmony with the natural order of things in the here and now.
There is a Zen Buddhist story that may offer a new perspective on how to view the news or events and help individuals approach them differently. This story provides insight into achieving harmony with the natural order of things.
Once, a Zen master and his disciples were traveling through a forest. As they were walking, they came across a man who was ranting and raving about the injustices of the world. The man was shouting and gesturing wildly, clearly upset about something.
The Zen master approached the man and asked him what was wrong. The man replied, "Don't you see all the terrible things happening in the world? Wars, famine, disease, poverty...how can you ignore it?"
The Zen master paused for a moment and then replied, "I see it, but I choose not to carry it with me. Why should I carry the burden of the world on my shoulders? It is enough to do what we can, where we are."
The man was taken aback by the Zen master's response, and he fell silent. After a moment, he looked up at the Zen master and said, "Thank you. I understand now."
This story illustrates the importance of not getting caught up in the drama and chaos of the world but instead focusing on what we can do in our lives to make a positive difference. By letting go of the burden of the world, we can approach the news and events with a sense of peace and equanimity rather than getting caught up in drama and chaos.
This story offers a simple yet powerful reminder that we can choose how we respond to the world around us and that by focusing on what we can do in our own lives, we can make a positive impact on the world, one small step at a time.
Can it be said that until we recognize our true nature and refrain from judging others for their actions, which are often influenced by their upbringing and social conditioning, true justice cannot exist in this world?
From the perspective of many nondualistic philosophies, including A Course In Miracles, Advaita Vedanta, Daoism, and Zen Buddhism, true justice is inseparable from recognizing our interconnectedness and a willingness to let go of external judgments.
The concept of spiritual justice is not focused on punishment or retribution but rather on the natural consequences of our thoughts and actions.
When we understand that all beings are ultimately one and that our actions ripple effect on the world, we can approach situations with greater compassion, empathy, and understanding. By recognizing that all actions stem from a complex web of causes and conditions, including social conditioning and upbringing, we can move beyond the cycle of blame and retribution and towards a more peaceful and just world.
While holding others accountable for their actions is important, it does not mean we should condone harmful behaviors. Recognizing all beings' inherent worth and interconnected nature can help us navigate difficult situations with compassion and understanding. By cultivating inner peace and a deeper understanding of spiritual justice, we can create a more just and harmonious world for all beings.
By approaching challenges with a sense of interconnectedness and compassion, we can create positive change in the world while maintaining a sense of inner peace and harmony. Rather than fighting against something or someone, which reinforces a belief in a dualistic world, the emphasis is on finding inner peace, forgiveness, and compassion as the path towards spiritual justice. This approach does not mean being passive but taking action from an inner alignment with the principles of spiritual righteousness.
What are the potential perceptions and controversies surrounding the concepts of Justice of Heaven, natural law, cosmic harmony, and nondual justice among non-believers?
The concepts of the justice of Heaven, natural law, cosmic harmony, and nondual justice can be perceived differently by non-believers, depending on their beliefs and values. Some non-believers may reject these concepts altogether, viewing them as based on religious or spiritual beliefs not grounded in evidence or reason. Ideas around spiritual justice are often based on principles not rooted in conventional concepts of justice and fairness.
From a nondualistic perspective, the Justice of Heaven is not about punishing or judging others but recognizing the underlying unity of existence. This perspective may be challenging for some to understand or accept, mainly if they are accustomed to conventional notions of justice based on external judgments and rules. The idea that our thoughts and beliefs directly impact our experiences and the world around us can be particularly complex for those who do not subscribe to a universal consciousness or spiritual reality beyond the physical world.
Additionally, some aspects of these concepts are controversial. For example, the idea that a cosmic harmony or natural law governs the world could be seen as deterministic or fatalistic, suggesting that individuals have little control over their lives. Similarly, some may see the concept of nondual justice, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings, as undermining the value of individual responsibility and accountability.
The controversial nature of the Justice of Heaven amongst non-believers is due to a fundamental difference in perspective and worldview and a need for familiarity and understanding of the principles and concepts underlying nondualistic philosophy.
However, these perspectives can also offer valuable insights into the nature of justice and its relationship to the world around us, even for non-believers.
For example, the concept of cosmic harmony or natural law emphasizes the importance of living following the world's natural order, rather than fighting against it.
How can a nondualistic perspective on the justice of Heaven be integrated into daily life, particularly in meditation? Are there any relevant quotes from nondualist texts?
One quote from A Course in Miracles relates to the integration of spiritual justice in daily life: "Teach not that I died in vain. Teach rather that I did not die by demonstrating that I live in you." This emphasizes the importance of embodying the principles of spiritual justice in our daily interactions.
Similarly, the Tao Te Ching emphasizes the importance of embodying the principles of the natural way in all aspects of life, stating:
"Practice non-action. Work without doing. Taste the tasteless. Magnify the small, increase the few. Reward bitterness with care. See simplicity in the complicated. Achieve greatness in little things."
In meditation, the nondualist understanding of the justice of Heaven can be incorporated by letting go of external judgments and focusing on inner peace and stillness. By cultivating inner peace and stillness, we can navigate the challenges of the world with equanimity and connect with a greater universal consciousness. The Bhagavad Gita states, "When a man has let go of attachments, when his mind is rooted in wisdom, everything he does is worship and his actions all melt away."
What other spiritual or nondual philosophical perspectives on justice and spiritual justice exist beyond those previously discussed, and are there any notable writers who have explored these topics?
Here are many other spiritual and nondual philosophical perspectives on the issue of injustices and spiritual justice. Some writers who have explored these subjects include:
Rumi - a 13th-century Persian poet and mystic who wrote extensively on love, unity, and the interconnectedness of all things
Kabir - a 15th-century Indian mystic who wrote poems and songs that emphasized the importance of inner peace and the search for the divine
Meister Eckhart - a 14th-century Christian mystic who wrote extensively on the nature of God, the soul, and the relationship between the two
Thich Nhat Hanh - a Vietnamese Zen master and peace activist who has written extensively on mindfulness, compassion, and the interconnectedness of all beings
These writers offer unique perspectives on the nature of justice, the role of the divine in the human experience, and the importance of cultivating inner peace and stillness. Their teachings offer a path toward greater understanding, compassion, and spiritual growth.
The nondualist Eckhart Tolle, with his books often more accessible and written towards a broader audience, has often spoken on the topic of injustices in the world and could bring a final point of view. His teachings differ from some of the more complex philosophical texts associated with Nondualism and emphasize the importance of present moment awareness, recognizing our shared humanity, and cultivating inner peace and stillness.
While Tolle acknowledges the existence of suffering and injustice in the world, his teachings focus on helping individuals find inner peace and well-being amid these challenges, rather than attempting to change the world through external action.
Exploring the concept of spiritual justice has highlighted the need for compassion, understanding, and forgiveness in our interactions with others, and the importance of cultivating inner peace and stillness in the face of the world's challenges.
How can recognizing the underlying unity of all things and letting go of attachment to external outcomes or judgments be applied to an art and design practice?
One theory is that this approach can lead to a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all things, which can inspire more empathetic and compassionate creations. By letting go of attachment to external outcomes, the focus can shift to the creative process, allowing for a more authentic and meaningful expression.
By releasing attachment to preconceived notions or judgments, one can open up to new possibilities and create from a place of inner truth.
After exploring various nondualist philosophies such as Advaita Vedanta, Daoism, A Course In Miracles, and Zen Buddhism, it is evident that they share a common perspective on justice and its relationship to the divine. These traditions emphasize the limitations of conventional concepts of justice and fairness and suggest that achieving true justice requires recognizing the underlying unity of all things and being willing to let go of attachment to external outcomes or judgments.
Through personal exploration of traumatic events and issues in the world, I have realized the importance of approaching justice from a spiritual perspective. This perspective has allowed me to approach difficult situations with greater clarity and compassion, and it has also helped me recognize the importance of cultivating stillness. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all things and cultivating inner peace, we can navigate the challenges of the world with equanimity and connect with greater universal consciousness.
Although not everyone may universally accept these perspectives, they offer a unique and valuable viewpoint on justice and its role in our world. By striving to apply these teachings in our daily lives, approaching injustices with forgiveness, compassion, and a deeper understanding of spiritual justice, we can deepen our spiritual growth and create a more peaceful life.
As a visual artist, I have been incorporating these perspectives into my work by creating art prints depicting scenes of nonviolent disobedience against the powers in place, crimes against free speech, and violence by governmental authorities. The intentional design of the art prints, with headless and gummy-bear-like bodies and minimal differences between individuals, makes it challenging to determine who is responsible for what and who might be right or wrong. This design choice aims to prevent feelings of anger or hatred towards either side and to highlight that none are truly victims or responsible. This aligns with some of the concepts of spiritual justice discussed earlier, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the underlying unity of all beings. This realization led to representing an inner consciousness that envelops all those depicted in the scenes, highlighting their interconnectedness and shared humanity.
By becoming more like a passerby, observing situations with a greater sense of detachment and awareness rather than getting caught up in emotional reactions that perpetuate suffering, we can work towards a more general peaceful awareness. Rather than reacting with anger, blame, and retribution to those who have wronged us, we can recognize that their actions stem from a complex web of causes and conditions, including social conditioning and upbringing.
*Using the question-and-answer format of QAWAI, we actively involved an AI to respond to various questions on different topics and provide specific quotes. Furthermore, we refined and enhanced portions of this article with the help of another AI language model. Learn more.