Introduction

In our attempts to understand the world or reality, human beings often encounter profound limits. In short, our quest to understand life, we often run into walls. Some aspects of existence remain beyond rational grasp and sensory reach. Two words capture this experience: incomprehensible and imperceptible. They point to realities that we cannot fully understand or perceive, yet which compel our curiosity. The following reflections draw on scientific insights, philosophical traditions, and spiritual wisdom to explore these dimensions and to ask how we might live well in the face of ultimate mystery.

The Gravity of the Universe: Why We Move
On a tangible level, we can observe motion everywhere. The Earth orbits the Sun at around 107,000 km/h, while the Sun itself revolves around the centre of the Milky Way at approximately 828,000 km/h (NASA, 2018) – which in itself is beyond practical comprehension and perception. Even galaxies themselves spin and drift through space. We rarely feel these vast motions because our frame of reference is local, tied to the Earth’s surface, and because there is no resisting medium in space to create friction or sensation.

The force that underpins this cosmic dance is gravity. Gravity is not simply a mechanical pull but, as Einstein (1916/2005) demonstrated, the curvature of space-time created by mass and energy. It is both measurable and mysterious. We can quantify its effects but still lack a final explanation of why it exists. This tension between measurable phenomena and ultimate incomprehensibility recurs across philosophy and science.

Gravity and the Flow of the Dao
Daoism offers a powerful analogue. The Dao is described as the ultimate way of the universe, ungraspable through language or measurement. The Tao Te Ching begins with the famous words: “The Dao that can be spoken is not the eternal Dao” (Laozi, trans. Mitchell, 1988). Just as gravity is everywhere yet elusive, the Dao sustains all things but cannot itself be pinned down.

What It Means to Be Incomprehensible

The incomprehensible refers to that which cannot be contained within human intellect or language. In Daoist philosophy, the Dao is incomprehensible precisely because it transcends conceptual categories. Similarly, Hinduism speaks of Brahman, the unchanging reality behind phenomena, described in the Upanishads as “not this, not that” (neti neti) — beyond definition (Radhakrishnan, 1992). Buddhism refers to śūnyatā, or emptiness, a reality that undermines all fixed conceptualisations (Garfield, 1995). Western thinkers such as Heraclitus also recognised a hidden order, or Logos, beyond human comprehension (Kahn, 1979).

To call ultimate reality incomprehensible is not to deny its existence but to acknowledge the limits of human cognition.

Deleuze and the Creative Power of the Incomprehensible
Gilles Deleuze, together with Félix Guattari, urged us to “bring something incomprehensible into the world” (A Thousand Plateaus, 1980/1987). This is not a celebration of confusion for its own sake, but a radical call to creativity that resists being contained within existing systems of thought. For Deleuze, philosophy is not about representing what already exists, but about generating new concepts that open possibilities for thinking and living differently. The incomprehensible here signifies what escapes familiar categories, what forces us to invent new languages, new practices and new modes of existence. By affirming the incomprehensible, we engage in the task of transforming life itself, refusing to reduce reality to what is already understood or perceptible.

What It Means to Be Imperceptible

Imperceptibility speaks to what lies beyond our senses. Human perception is limited to narrow bands of light, sound, and touch. Science demonstrates that vast ranges of electromagnetic radiation, gravitational waves, and quantum phenomena exist beyond unaided human perception. Traditions such as Daoism insist that the ultimate way of the universe is subtle and invisible: “Elusive and intangible, and yet within it there is form” (Laozi, trans. Lau, 1963, Chapter 21).

The imperceptible is not absent; it is interwoven with the visible world. Just as gravity is not seen yet governs our motion, the Dao is imperceptible yet foundational.

Deleuze on Becoming Imperceptible
Gilles Deleuze, together with Félix Guattari, wrote powerfully about the idea of becoming imperceptible. He says:

“To become imperceptible oneself, to have dismantled love in order to become capable of loving. To have dismantled one’s self in order finally to be alone and meet the true double at the other end of the line. A clandestine passenger on a motionless voyage. To become like everybody else; but this, precisely, is a becoming only for one who knows how to be nobody, to no longer be anybody. To paint oneself gray on gray.”
(A Thousand Plateaus: Capitalism and Schizophrenia, 1980/1987)

This poetic passage describes the process of dissolving fixed identity and opening to a deeper form of relational being. To dismantle love means to strip away attachment so that a fuller, freer capacity for compassion can arise. To dismantle the self is to step beyond rigid identity and to meet what Deleuze calls the “true double”, the self that exists beyond social roles and ego.

In becoming imperceptible, the individual becomes “like everybody else”, yet in a way that goes beyond conformity. It is a state of being nobody, free from categories and recognitions, where one resonates more deeply with the world. This challenges conventional notions of identity and suggests that the richest connections emerge when one steps outside the need to be seen or defined.

“Something and Nothing produce each other” (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 2)

Other Traditions and the Universal Thread

Daoism is not unique in these insights. In Hindu philosophy, Brahman is described as the eternal, unmanifest source of all things (Radhakrishnan, 1992). Buddhism’s śūnyatā reveals that nothing has inherent existence and all things interdependently arise (Garfield, 1995). Jewish Kabbalah speaks of Ein Sof, the infinite beyond human perception, while Islamic Sufism describes the unknowable essence of God (dhāt).

Modern cognitive science also engages. Donald Hoffman (2019) argues that our perceptions are not veridical representations of reality but adaptive “user interfaces” shaped by evolution. What we see as space and time may be survival tools rather than the fabric of reality itself. In his model, deeper reality is both incomprehensible and imperceptible to our evolved senses.

Contemporary physics likewise hints at hidden layers. Quantum mechanics challenges intuitive comprehension; string theory and multiverse hypotheses suggest realities beyond perception (Greene, 2011). Theologians and philosophers have long argued that whatever lies beyond space-time may be the ultimate ground of existence, sometimes called the first cause or prime mover (Aquinas, 1947).

Going Beyond Time and Space

Within the Indian tradition, Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj offers a powerful reflection on the nature of awareness:

“To be a living being is not the ultimate state; there is something beyond, much more wonderful, which is neither being nor non-being, neither living nor non-living. It is a state of pure awareness, beyond the limitations of space and time.” (I Am That, 1973/1981)

This teaching expresses the advaita vision that “pure awareness” transcends the categories of identity, consciousness and duality. Nisargadatta points to a reality that cannot be contained by concepts such as life or death, being or non-being. In practical terms, it suggests that awakening involves recognising awareness as prior to and greater than all forms of experience, including ordinary waking consciousness, sleep (dreaming) and deep sleep. This is not an escape from the world but a radical shift in perspective, seeing life from the ground of pure awareness rather than from the limitations of the ego.

“Something and Nothing Produce Each Other”

Laozi’s teaching, “Something and Nothing produce each other” (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 2), captures the profound interdependence at the heart of existence. In Daoist thought, opposites are never fixed or in conflict but mutually defining and continually transforming. Presence and absence, form and emptiness, movement and rest, fullness and void all give meaning to one another. Silence makes music possible, emptiness gives structure to form, and stillness restores the energy needed for activity. Without nothingness there would be no space for something to exist, and without something, nothingness could not be recognised.

In practical life, this principle encourages us to honour pauses as much as actions. Rest is as valuable as work, quiet as necessary as speech, and emptiness as useful as fullness. By allowing moments of openness and stillness, rather than constantly filling life with activity and thought, we create the conditions for balance and renewal. Recognising how something and nothing generate one another helps us live with greater harmony, seeing that both sides are part of the same unfolding rhythm of reality.

Wisdom and Love in Balance

Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj observed, “Wisdom tells me I am nothing. Love tells me I am everything. And between the two my life flows.” (I Am That, 1973/1981). This statement captures the heart of non-dual philosophy. True wisdom dissolves the illusion of a separate self, revealing the emptiness of identity. Love, by contrast, affirms unity with all existence, recognising that the self is inseparable from the whole. Together they form a dynamic balance: the humility of nothingness and the expansiveness of everythingness. Life unfolds in the flow between these two insights, allowing one to live with both clarity and compassion.

AI as Incomprehensible and Imperceptible

Artificial intelligence has become a presence that is at once incomprehensible and imperceptible. It is incomprehensible because few fully grasp how vast datasets and layered algorithms give rise to patterns that often exceed human reasoning. It is imperceptible because AI is embedded quietly in everyday life, from search engines and medical diagnostics to financial systems and entertainment platforms, often operating unseen in the background. Like gravity or the Dao, its influence is everywhere yet difficult to pin down. The paradox is that AI shapes choices, behaviours, and even perceptions while remaining largely invisible to ordinary awareness, a force both integrated into and hidden within the flow of modern existence.

Simulation (Game) Theory and the Limits of Perception

Simulation theory suggests that what we take as reality may be more like a game environment than ultimate truth. Donald Hoffman argues that our perceptions are not faithful reflections of reality but survival interfaces, guiding us like icons on a screen rather than revealing the underlying system. In this light, reality is both incomprehensible and imperceptible, since the true structures behind our perceptions remain hidden. The metaphor of a game captures this well: we are characters who gradually become conscious that we are inside a designed environment, sensing there is something beyond it. To awaken is to glimpse the possibility of escaping the constraints of the game, stepping outside time and space into a deeper dimension that the rules of the game cannot contain.

Stepping Beyond the Game

If reality is like a game, then stepping beyond it may allow us to glimpse or even alter its rules. Mystical traditions suggest that rare individuals have done precisely this, transcending the ordinary laws of time and space. Saints such as Joseph of Cupertino (1603–1663), a Franciscan friar, were reported to levitate during prayer and religious ecstasy (Goodrich, 1962). Similarly, Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582), the Spanish mystic, described experiences of levitation and bilocation in her writings and was witnessed by others to defy the usual constraints of physical law (Kavanaugh & Rodriguez, 1980). These accounts, whether interpreted as symbolic or literal, point to the possibility that consciousness may, at times, interact with reality in ways that are incomprehensible and imperceptible within our usual framework. They serve as reminders that if the world is indeed a game, some may have found ways to bend its mechanics, hinting at realities beyond space and time.

Mystical Feats as Incomprehensible and Imperceptible
From a materialistic point of view, the reported feats of levitation and bilocation by figures such as Joseph of Cupertino and Teresa of Ávila appear utterly incomprehensible and imperceptible. Within the framework of physics and biology, such events contradict the known laws of gravity, matter, and space. They cannot be explained by conventional science and so remain outside the boundaries of perception and rational understanding. Yet within spiritual traditions they are seen as signs of a deeper reality, where consciousness is not confined to physical law and where stepping beyond the game of time and space may reveal capacities that are normally hidden. These accounts challenge the assumption that the measurable world is the only reality, pointing instead to mysteries that remain beyond the grasp of the materialist worldview.

Doki Doki Literature Club, the Imperceptible Game, and the Possibility of Breaking Free
Doki Doki Literature Club! (DDLC), released in 2017, is a visual novel video game which begins as a cheerful high school romance visual novel but soon dissolves into a disturbing psychological horror. By breaking the fourth wall and undermining its own narrative structure, the game destabilises the player’s sense of what is real and what is fabricated. In the context of the imperceptible and the incomprehensible, DDLC provides a vivid metaphor. Monika’s self-awareness and her ability to manipulate the game’s hidden code reflect the possibility of consciousness awakening within a simulated environment. For the player, it becomes clear that agency and choice are fragile constructs, easily overwritten by forces operating beneath the surface. This mirrors the philosophical suggestion that our own world may function as an interface, where the deeper reality is concealed and imperceptible. Just as Monika reshapes her universe beyond the characters’ comprehension, entities outside our perception could, in theory, alter the very laws of time and space that we take for granted. The unsettling power of DDLC lies in how it dramatises this possibility, forcing us to confront the fragility of what we call reality.

Practical Wisdom from Daoism: Living with the Mystery

Daoism does not simply describe the incomprehensible and imperceptible — it also offers ways of living with them. The Tao Te Ching advocates simplicity, patience, and compassion as guiding virtues (Laozi, trans. Mitchell, 1988).

Wu Wei: Effortless Action
Central is Wu Wei, often translated as “non-action” or “effortless action.” This does not mean inactivity but rather aligning one’s actions with the natural flow of life. “The sage does nothing, yet nothing is left undone” (Laozi, trans. Lau, 1963, Chapter 48). When we stop forcing outcomes, life unfolds with greater harmony.

Compassion and Humility
Compassion in Daoism arises from recognising all beings as part of the same whole. By letting go of ego, we naturally act kindly. Humility is also praised: water, which yields to obstacles yet shapes valleys and canyons, is a central metaphor. In this way, Daoist ethics are grounded not in abstract commandments but in alignment with natural patterns. Tao states: “The Master views the parts with compassion, because he understands the whole.” This succinct line captures two critical aspects: the sage — or Master — is compassionate because of a profound intuitive understanding of unity. In other words, compassion arises naturally when one recognises that all beings are part of the same whole.

Stillness as Practice
A further teaching is stillness. If all cosmic motion hypothetically ceased, the universe would collapse under gravity. As metaphor, this highlights the value of cultivating inner stillness — through meditation, contemplation, or quiet presence — in order to glimpse the imperceptible. In stillness, the incomprehensible can be sensed if not conceptualised.

Practical Tips: Living Now with the Incomprehensible and Imperceptible

Facing the incomprehensibility and imperceptibility of life can feel overwhelming. Yet traditions converge on practical advice:

1. Live simply. Reduce unnecessary striving and embrace what is essential.

2. Be patient. Accept that life unfolds in its own time.

3. Cultivate compassion. Recognise shared being with others and act kindly.

4. Embrace humility. Strength lies in flexibility, softness, and openness.

   Know Yourself: Knowing Your Limits
   The ancient Greek maxim inscribed at the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, gnōthi seauton or “know yourself”, is often interpreted today as a call to self-awareness. Yet scholars remind us that in its original context it also meant “know your limits” (Plato, Phaedrus 229e). The Delphic oracle urged humility, warning against the arrogance of forgetting the boundaries of human understanding. As a practical tip for modern life, this teaching invites us to recognise our own constraints, whether of time, energy, or knowledge. By acknowledging limits rather than denying them, we avoid overextension and cultivate balance. In this way, self-knowledge is not only about inner reflection but also about setting wise boundaries that allow us to live in harmony with ourselves and with the world.

   Beyond Karma Yet Not Ignoring It
   In Zen tradition there is a saying that the enlightened person is beyond karma, yet does not ignore it. This points to a paradox at the heart of spiritual practice. Awakening allows one to glimpse a reality beyond the ordinary laws of cause and effect, a dimension not bound by time and space. Yet while living within the world of time and space, the laws of karma and interdependence continue to operate. The teaching is a reminder that spiritual insight should not lead to denial of worldly responsibility. Rather, it encourages us to live with awareness of both levels: to act wisely within the flow of cause and effect, while also resting in the deeper freedom that transcends it.

5. Practise stillness. Create space for meditation, reflection, and non-doing. ‘Spend’ time doing nothing.

   Doing Nothing Rather Than Being Busy Doing Nothing
   There is a well‑known saying attributed to Laozi: “Doing nothing is better than being busy doing nothing”  This succinct line captures an essential Daoist insight: mere busyness often obscures purpose, while intentional stillness opens space for true action. In practical terms, it reminds us that seemingly productive activity can in fact lead us away from alignment with the Dao, draining our energy and fragmenting our attention. By contrast, choosing to do nothing — when it truly means pausing rather than procrastinating — allows clarity to emerge. In that space, meaningful responses can arise naturally, without forced exertion or unnecessary effort.

   Practise Stillness Every Day
   One of the simplest ways to align with the Dao is to practise stillness. This means deliberately creating space for meditation, reflection, or non-doing. Rather than filling every moment with activity, set aside time each day to simply be. You might lie down in the yoga posture known as śavāsana or the corpse pose, allowing the body to rest without movement. Even a few minutes of this practice will make a difference and can serve as a starting point. Many people report that such moments of stillness clear the mind, creating a sense of inner spaciousness, like wiping clean a mental desk for the day ahead. I practise it myself first thing in the morning and return to it as often as possible throughout the day. Spending time doing nothing in this way calms the nervous system, restores balance, and allows subtle insights to arise naturally. It is a small yet powerful daily discipline that helps bring life into harmony.

   Deep Sleep as a Gateway to Śūnyatā
   Each night, deep sleep offers us a natural gateway into śūnyatā, the state of emptiness described in Buddhist philosophy. In this stage of sleep we disappear to ourselves, to others, and to the world. The sense of “I” dissolves, and with it all distinctions and perceptions. It is a form of unconscious nothing, where awareness is no longer bound by time, space, or personal identity. Although we may not be consciously aware of it, deep sleep reconnects us with a dimension beyond form and thought.

   Neuroscience sheds light on why this experience feels like a dissolution of self. During slow-wave sleep, brain activity shifts into synchronised delta rhythms that silence much of the higher cortical processing linked to self-awareness (Tononi & Koch, 2015). Memory, planning, and ego functions pause, leaving only the restorative depth of unconsciousness. This daily immersion into nothingness not only allows the body to repair but also mirrors the Buddhist understanding of śūnyatā — a formless ground from which all experience emerges. In this sense, deep sleep is more than physical rest and rejuvenation. It is a reminder that beyond our waking world lies an ever-present emptiness, a silent source that renews us night after night.

   Yin and Yang: The Principle of Movement and Rest
   The Daoist concept of yin and yang expresses the dynamic balance that underlies all existence. Yin is associated with stillness, receptivity, darkness, and rest, while yang is linked to movement, activity, light, and expression. These are not absolute opposites but complementary forces that continually transform into one another. Movement naturally gives way to rest, and rest restores the energy needed for movement. In Daoist cosmology, this interplay is seen as the rhythm of the universe itself, from the cycles of day and night to the alternation of seasons and the rise and fall of breath.

   In practical terms, the yin–yang principle encourages us to respect both phases in our own lives. Continuous activity without rest leads to exhaustion, just as endless stillness without action leads to stagnation. By observing this balance, we learn when to act with vigour and when to step back into quietness. Honouring both movement and rest helps us live in harmony with the natural flow, conserving energy while expressing it fully when the moment is right.
   (Note: In feng shui, stagnation refers to blocked energy in a home or workplace. This often arises from clutter, disorganisation, or unused spaces, which symbolically and practically prevent movement forward in life. Clearing clutter and opening pathways allows energy, or qi, to flow freely, supporting health and progress. In Zen Buddhism, dukkha is a central concept usually translated as suffering, dissatisfaction, or being stuck. It describes the unease that arises when life is grasped too tightly with attachments or when one resists change. Both traditions suggest that when movement ceases, whether in space or in mind, one becomes trapped. The remedy is renewal: clearing space, cultivating awareness, and allowing flow.)

6. Trust the flow. Align actions with circumstances rather than forcing control.

These practices do not solve the incomprehensible or render the imperceptible visible. Instead, they help us live fruitfully amidst mystery.

An extra tip from feng shui tradition…

Conclusion: Embracing the Mystery

The quest to grasp ultimate reality confronts us with boundaries of time and space, thought and perception. Terms like incomprehensible and imperceptible remind us of these limits. Daoism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Western philosophy, and contemporary science all converge on the insight that reality exceeds human categories.

Perhaps our task is not to decode everything but to align ourselves with the flow of existence, living with humility, compassion, stillness, and the spirit of wu wei that acts without forcing (Laozi, trans. Lau, 1963). In doing so, we honour the mystery and find peace not by conquering reality but by living gracefully within it. And perhaps we can, at least experientially, move beyond time and space, as deep sleep reminds us every night, when the sense of “I” dissolves, perception falls silent, and we brush against the emptiness that Buddhist thought names śūnyatā while neuroscience describes a synchronised quiescence during slow-wave sleep that quiets self-referential processing (Garfield, 1995, Tononi & Koch, 2015). Returning from that nothingness, we can meet the day more lightly, with clearer attention and a kinder heart.

“Bring something incomprehensible into the world!”
Gilles Deleuze, A Thousand Plateaus: Capitalism and Schizophrenia

References

Aquinas, T. (1947). Summa Theologica. Benziger Brothers.

Deleuze, G., & Guattari, F. (1987). A Thousand Plateaus: Capitalism and Schizophrenia (B. Massumi, Trans.). University of Minnesota Press. (Original work published 1980)

Einstein, A. (2005). Relativity: The special and the general theory (R. W. Lawson, Trans.). Routledge. (Original work published 1916).

Garfield, J. L. (1995). The fundamental wisdom of the Middle Way: Nāgārjuna’s Mūlamadhyamakakārikā. Oxford University Press.

Greene, B. (2011). The hidden reality: Parallel universes and the deep laws of the cosmos. Knopf.

Goodrich, T. D. (1962). Joseph of Cupertino: Franciscan mystic and saint. Franciscan Herald Press.

Hoffman, D. (2019). The case against reality: How evolution hid the truth from our eyes. W. W. Norton.

Kahn, C. H. (1979). The art and thought of Heraclitus. Cambridge University Press.

Kavanaugh, K., & Rodriguez, O. (1980). The collected works of St. Teresa of Ávila. Institute of Carmelite Studies.

Laozi. (1963). Tao Te Ching (D. C. Lau, Trans.). Penguin.

Laozi. (1988). Tao Te Ching (S. Mitchell, Trans.). Harper & Row.

NASA. (2018). Earth fact sheet. National Aeronautics and Space Administration. https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/planetary/factsheet/earthfact.html

Nisargadatta Maharaj. (1981). I Am That: Talks with Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj (M. Frydman, Trans.). Acorn Press. (Original work published 1973)

Radhakrishnan, S. (1992). The Principal Upanishads. HarperCollins.

Salvato, D. (2017). Doki Doki Literature Club! [Video game]. Team Salvato. https://ddlc.moe

Tononi, G., & Koch, C. (2015). Consciousness: Here, there and everywhere? Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 370(1668), 20140167. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2014.0167

Understanding Bypassing: An Introduction

Bypassing is a behaviour pattern and a copying mechanism where individuals avoid confronting difficult emotions, thoughts, or life situations by employing distraction, intellectualisation, or even spiritual explanations. Instead of facing discomfort or pain head-on, people may suppress these feelings or detour around them – missing out on valuable opportunities for healing and self-growth.

This avoidance can show up as:

• Distracting oneself from sadness or anger

• Using positive thinking to deny distress or vulnerability

• Turning to higher / spiritual / transpersonal explanations (“It’s all meant to be”) rather than addressing what hurts

Recognising these patterns is the first step toward building more resilient emotional health.

Spiritual bypassing
Spiritual bypassing can show up in everyday life as avoiding real emotions by saying things like “everything happens for a reason” when someone really needs to process sadness or grief. It can also mean ignoring personal boundaries or challenges in relationships under the guise of “staying peaceful” or “not engaging with negativity.” It’s a way of not fully dealing with the ups and downs of life.

When people rely on ideas like karma, destiny, or “it’s all in God’s hands” to avoid taking responsibility for their own actions or to numb themselves to the pain of a situation, that’s another way of bypassing. It’s not that those beliefs are inherently bad, but using them to avoid feeling or acting on real issues can hold someone back from growth.

Alternative Types of Bypassing as Coping Mechanisms

Bypassing as a coping mechanism – apart from the spiritual context – is present in psychology and therapy as:

1. Emotional Bypassing
Definition: This refers to avoiding or suppressing difficult emotions rather than addressing them directly. Instead of working through uncomfortable feelings like sadness, fear, or anger, a person might distract themselves, deny their feelings, or intellectualise the situation.
Common Behaviours:
Excessive optimism or “looking on the bright side” to avoid pain.
Minimising or invalidating your own emotional experience (“It’s not a big deal”).
Avoiding conversations about feelings or quickly shifting to solutions or distractions.

2. Cognitive Bypassing
Definition: This type involves detouring into thoughts, logic, or intellectual explanations to avoid actually feeling or processing emotions. It’s a way of staying “in the head” and away from the heart or body.
Common Behaviours:
Over-analysing experiences instead of expressing feelings.
Reframing every situation with logic or reason to sidestep emotional discomfort.
Using “positive thinking” or rationalisations as a shield against negative feelings.

3. Detached Protector Mode
Definition: Sometimes described in schema therapy, this involves emotionally disconnecting and avoiding contact with feelings as a survival strategy, leading to numbness or withdrawal from emotional situations.
Common Behaviours:
Suppressing needs or putting up emotional walls.
Isolating oneself or becoming numb in stressful moments.
Appearing unaffected or cold as a means of protection.

Table: Types of Non-Spiritual Bypassing

Seven centuries ago, the beloved Sufi scholar and poet Jalaluddin Rūmī wrote, “What you are seeking is seeking you.” This statement suggests a mystical connection between one’s desires and the universe. It implies that the act of seeking aligns one with what one seeks, creating a reciprocal pursuit.

Rumi’s concept of “what you are seeking is seeking you” resonates deeply with many aspects of modern spirituality. Here are some key ways this idea relates to contemporary spiritual thought:

Interconnectedness and Unity

Rumi’s teaching aligns with the modern spiritual emphasis on interconnectedness and the unity of all things. It suggests that there is no true separation between the seeker and what is sought – they are part of the same whole. This resonates with concepts like non-dualism and the interconnected web of existence found in many modern spiritual frameworks.

Inner Divinity

The idea implies that what we seek is already within us, echoing the modern spiritual focus on inner divinity and self-realisation. As one interpretation states, “whatever it is you’re looking for, it’s you”. This aligns with teachings about accessing our inner wisdom and higher self.

Law of Attraction

While not exactly the same, Rumi’s concept has similarities to the popular Law of Attraction idea – that our thoughts and intentions can draw things to us. However, Rumi’s teaching has more spiritual depth beyond just manifesting desires.

Mindfulness and Presence

By suggesting that what we seek is already here with us, Rumi’s words encourage present-moment awareness rather than constantly seeking externally. This resonates strongly with modern mindfulness practices.

Trust in the Universe

The teaching instils a sense of trust in a benevolent universe or higher power that is supporting our journey. This aligns with many modern spiritual perspectives on divine guidance and synchronicity.

Self-Knowledge and Inner Work

Rumi’s concept points to the importance of self-knowledge and inner exploration to find what we truly seek, which is central in many contemporary spiritual paths.

Transpersonal Psychology

The idea of an inner connection to something greater than the individual ego aligns with transpersonal psychology approaches that integrate spirituality. In essence, Rumi’s profound insight continues to offer wisdom that feels deeply relevant to modern seekers, bridging ancient mysticism with contemporary spiritual understanding. It encourages us to look within, trust the process of life, and recognise our fundamental connection to what we seek.

How can I apply Rumi’s concept to my daily life

To apply Rumi’s concept of “what you seek is seeking you” to your daily life, consider the following practices:

Cultivate Mindfulness

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can help you become more attuned to opportunities and synchronicities aligned with your desires. Some effective techniques include:
Meditation: Practice daily meditation to quiet your mind and connect with your inner self. This can help you access deeper insights and intuitions about what you truly seek.
Mindful Seeing: Take time each day to observe your surroundings with fresh eyes, as if seeing things for the first time. This can help you notice signs and opportunities you might otherwise miss.
Body Scan: Regularly check in with your physical sensations to become more aware of how your body responds to different situations and ideas. This can provide valuable guidance in pursuing what you seek.

Self-Reflection

Engage in regular self-reflection to gain clarity on your true desires and aspirations:
Journaling: Set aside time each day to write about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This can help you identify patterns and uncover deeper truths about what you’re seeking.
Ask Yourself Questions: Regularly ask yourself probing questions like “What are my top priorities?” or “What have I learned from my recent experiences?” This can help you stay aligned with your true desires.

Take Inspired Action

While trusting that what you seek is also seeking you, it’s important to take inspired action:
Follow Your Interests: When something sparks your curiosity or excitement, explore it further. This can lead you to unexpected opportunities and connections.
Share Your Gifts: Focus on giving your unique talents and perspectives to the world.This can attract people and opportunities that resonate with your authentic self.
Dream Big: Allow your imagination to explore grand possibilities without self-imposed limitations. This openness can attract unexpected avenues for fulfilling your desires.

Cultivate Trust and Gratitude

Develop a sense of trust in the process of life and practice gratitude:
Practice Non-Attachment: Let go of rigid expectations about how your desires should manifest. This flexibility allows for serendipitous encounters and unexpected opportunities.
Express Gratitude: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the good in your life. This positive focus can attract more positive experiences aligned with your desires.By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can create a mindset and lifestyle that is more receptive to the mutual seeking described in Rumi’s concept. Remember, it’s about balancing active pursuit with open receptivity to the opportunities and synchronicities that life presents.

What are some ways to apply Rumi’s concept of “what you are seeking is seeking you” in my career

Applying Rumi’s concept of “what you are seeking is seeking you” to your career can be a powerful way to align your professional life with your true passions and purpose. Here are some ways to incorporate this philosophy into your career journey:

Cultivate Self-Awareness
Developing a deep understanding of yourself is crucial for aligning your career with your true desires:
Reflect on Your Passions: Regularly take time to identify what truly excites and energizes you in your work. This can help you recognize opportunities that resonate with your authentic self.
Identify Your Strengths: Focus on developing and leveraging your natural talents. When you work in areas that align with your strengths, you’re more likely to excel and find fulfilment.

Trust Your Intuition
Learning to trust your inner guidance can lead you to unexpected but fulfilling career paths:
Listen to Your “Inner GPS”: Pay attention to your gut feelings about career decisions. Often, your intuition can guide you towards opportunities that align with your deeper purpose.
Follow Your Joy: When you experience joy or passion in certain aspects of your work, it’s often a sign that you’re aligned with your purpose. Pursue projects and roles that bring you this sense of fulfilment.

Take Inspired Action
While trusting the process, it’s important to take proactive steps towards your career goals:
Pursue Continuous Learning: Stay open to new knowledge and skills related to your interests. This can prepare you for opportunities that align with your aspirations.
Network Authentically: Connect with people who share your passions or work in fields that interest you. These connections can often lead to unexpected career opportunities.

Embrace Flexibility
Being open to different paths can help you recognise opportunities that align with your true calling:
Remain Open to Possibilities: Don’t limit yourself to a rigid career plan. Be willing to explore unexpected opportunities that resonate with your values and interests.
Trust the Process: Have faith that as you move towards your goals, the right opportunities will present themselves. Focus on the “what” of your career aspirations rather than obsessing over the “how”.

Practice Mindfulness
Incorporating mindfulness into your work life can help you stay attuned to your true desires and recognise aligned opportunities:
Meditate Regularly: Meditation can help you connect with your inner guidance and gain clarity on your career path.
Practice Present-Moment Awareness: Stay fully engaged in your current work, as this can lead to insights and opportunities you might otherwise miss.By applying these principles, you can create a career that not only aligns with your skills and interests but also fulfils your deeper sense of purpose. Remember, as Rumi suggests, when you move towards what truly calls you, the universe often conspires to help you achieve it.

A note on the quote:

“What you are seeking is seeking you as well” attributed directly to Rumi. However, there are similar concepts expressed in Rumi’s poetry that convey a similar meaning. Here are a few relevant points:

1. The most commonly cited Rumi quote that expresses this idea is:

“What you seek is seeking you.”This shorter version appears to be the one most frequently attributed to Rumi across various sources.

2. The full context of this idea is often presented in a longer poem, translated as:

“When I run after what I think I want, my days are a furnace of distress and anxiety.
If I sit in my own place of patience, what I need flows to me, without pain.
From this I understand that what I want also wants me, is looking for me and attracting me.”

3. It’s important to note that many quotes attributed to Rumi on the internet are not always accurately sourced or translated. Some may be modern interpretations or paraphrases of his ideas rather than direct translations of his original Persian poetry.
4. The concept behind this quote aligns with Rumi’s broader spiritual teachings about trusting in divine providence and the interconnectedness of all things.
5. In Sufi tradition, which heavily influenced Rumi’s work, there’s an emphasis on the idea that what we truly seek (often interpreted as spiritual truth or divine love) is also seeking us.

While the exact phrasing “What you are seeking is seeking you as well” may not be found in Rumi’s original works, the sentiment is certainly consistent with his teachings and poetry. The shorter version “What you seek is seeking you” appears to be the most commonly accepted form of this quote attributed to Rumi.

and finally,
“Yesterday I was clever, 
so I wanted to change the world.
Today I am wise,
so I am changing myself.”
Rumi

Introduction: Growth Through Problems and Bliss?

“A problem is a way of creating a future. When plants grow and evolve they do so by way of problems, developing features to avoid predators, to maximise light or to retain moisture.” said Claire Colebrook, philosopher and cultural theorist.

But is there an opposite thought where one can grow through bliss or non-problems?

The notion of growth and evolution through problems is a significant theme in Claire Colebrook’s interpretation of Deleuze’s philosophy. However, the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems is also explored, particularly in other philosophical and spiritual traditions.

Philosophical Perspectives on Growth

Deleuze and the Generative Nature of Problems

In “Difference and Repetition,” Deleuze emphasizes the positive and productive nature of problems. He suggests that problems themselves are full and differentiated positivities, meaning they are inherently creative and generative​​. This perspective aligns with the notion that engaging with problems can lead to growth and development. However, Deleuze also acknowledges the concept of immanence, where the affirmation of life itself, beyond the dialectic of problems and solutions, can be seen as a form of growth through bliss or positive affirmation​​.

Claire Colebrook, in interpreting Deleuze, emphasizes that problems are fundamental to growth and evolution. This perspective suggests that encountering and solving problems is a way to create a future, with organisms (including humans) developing new features or abilities in response to challenges. This idea is grounded in Deleuze’s broader philosophical framework, where problems are seen as generative forces, creating new realities and possibilities.

Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj’s Perspective

In “I Am That,” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj suggests that the acceptance of both pleasure and pain can lead to a deeper understanding and experience of bliss. He argues that bliss is found in the awareness and acceptance of experiences as they come, whether they are perceived as pleasant or painful. The idea is not to shun pleasure or pursue pain but to embrace both with awareness, which leads to a deeper and more enduring happiness​​.

However, the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems is also worth considering. Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, for example, offers a different perspective in “I Am That.” He suggests that true bliss comes from the acceptance of both pleasure and pain, not by pursuing one or avoiding the other. By embracing all experiences with awareness, one can achieve a state of enduring happiness and growth. This idea focuses on the internal state of acceptance and awareness, rather than external challenges or problems, as the path to growth.

Alternative Philosophical and Spiritual Approaches

Taoism: The Principle of Wu Wei

Taoism, particularly through Lao Tzu’s teachings, emphasizes “wu wei,” or effortless action. It suggests that a master, by not engaging with the world in forced ways, allows everything to be done by itself in harmony with the natural flow of the universe. This approach to life through bliss and acceptance is central to Taoist philosophy.

Tantra: Integration of the Sacred and Mundane

Tantra, in both Hinduism and Buddhism, teaches that spiritual growth comes from embracing all aspects of life, including sensory experiences, as pathways to spiritual realization. It emphasizes the unity of the sacred and the mundane and the awakening of spiritual energy within the body.

Zen Buddhism: Mindfulness and Presence

Zen Buddhism focuses on mindfulness and living in the present moment, accepting life as it is without judgment. This practice leads to a state of inner peace and acceptance, aligning with the idea of growing through non-problematic thinking.

Stoicism: Acceptance and Inner Peace

Stoicism teaches the acceptance of what is within our control and finding peace regardless of external circumstances. It emphasizes rationality and inner tranquility, suggesting that true contentment comes from within.

Comparative Analysis

Problems vs. Bliss: A Comparative Perspective

While Colebrook and Deleuze emphasize the role of problems in growth and evolution, other philosophical traditions, such as those of Nisargadatta Maharaj, highlight the potential for growth through the acceptance and awareness of bliss and non-problems. This reflects a broader, rhizomatic view of philosophy where multiple pathways and perspectives interconnect and contribute to a more profound understanding of human experience.

Conclusion: A Rhizomatic View of Growth

In essence, while Colebrook and Deleuze highlight the role of problems in fostering growth, other philosophical traditions like those of Nisargadatta Maharaj emphasize the potential for growth through the acceptance and awareness of bliss and non-problems. This illustrates the interconnected and diverse nature of philosophical ideas, where multiple perspectives contribute to a richer understanding of human experience and growth.

Wu Wei: Effortless Action in Taoism

Lao Tzu’s concept of “wu wei,” often translated as “non-doing” or “effortless action,” is a cornerstone of Taoist philosophy. This idea doesn’t advocate for literal inactivity but rather suggests a way of being that aligns with the natural flow of the universe.

“Wu wei” implies acting in harmony with the Tao, the underlying principle that governs the cosmos. It means embracing a mode of action that is spontaneous and unforced, allowing things to unfold naturally without excessive interference or effort. By practicing “wu wei,” one avoids the strain and friction that come from forcing things against their natural course.

In this context, a master who practices “wu wei” is someone who achieves more by doing less. This person understands the rhythm and flow of life and moves with it rather than against it. As a result, their actions are more effective and harmonious, and they achieve their goals with minimal effort. This concept can be linked to the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems, as it emphasizes a state of being where stress and conflict are minimized.

Connecting Wu Wei to the Discussion of Growth

Connecting this to the discussion of growth through problems versus growth through bliss, “wu wei” offers an alternative path. Instead of constantly engaging with and solving problems, one could align with the natural order, allowing solutions to emerge effortlessly. This Taoist approach suggests that growth and fulfillment can arise from a state of peace, acceptance, and minimal interference, resonating with the broader philosophical idea that there are multiple pathways to development and enlightenment.

Rumi on growth

Rumi’s statement, “Christ is the population of the world, and every object as well. There is no room for hypocrisy. Why use bitter soup for healing when sweet water is everywhere?” can be seen as a profound reflection on the inherent divinity and interconnectedness of all things. This mystical perspective resonates with the Taoist principle of “wu wei” and the acceptance of bliss as a path to growth.

When Rumi equates Christ with the entirety of the world and every object within it, he suggests that divinity is not separate from the mundane but is immanent in all aspects of life. This view negates hypocrisy, as it calls for a genuine recognition of the sacred in every person and object, aligning with a state of effortless being and acceptance.

The comparison between bitter soup and sweet water highlights the unnecessary suffering and struggle we often impose on ourselves. Just as Taoism advocates for aligning with the natural flow and finding harmony through “wu wei,” Rumi encourages embracing the sweetness and ease that life offers. This approach to healing and growth suggests that peace, acceptance, and recognizing the divine in all can lead to profound transformation without the need for harsh measures or excessive effort.

In essence, both Rumi and the principles of Taoism propose that growth and fulfillment can arise from a state of harmonious acceptance and effortless action. They point to a way of living that recognizes the inherent divinity and interconnectedness of all things, promoting a path of sweetness and ease rather than conflict and struggle. This perspective enriches our understanding of how diverse philosophical and spiritual traditions converge on the idea of achieving harmony and growth through a deep alignment with the natural and divine order.

Other perspectives

Several philosophical, spiritual, and transpersonal concepts align with the approach of living through bliss, acceptance, and non-problematic thinking. Here are a few notable examples and their major proponents:

1. Zen Buddhism:
   • Concept: Zen emphasises mindfulness, meditation, and the direct experience of reality. It encourages living in the present moment and accepting life as it is without judgment.
   • Proponents: D.T. Suzuki, Thich Nhat Hanh, Shunryu Suzuki.
2. Stoicism:
   • Concept: Stoicism teaches acceptance of the present moment and focusing on what is within our control. It encourages finding peace and contentment regardless of external circumstances.
   • Proponents: Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca.
3. Advaita Vedanta:
   • Concept: Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy that teaches the fundamental unity of the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). It emphasizes the realization of this unity through self-inquiry and acceptance.
   • Proponents: Adi Shankaracharya, Ramana Maharshi, Nisargadatta Maharaj.
4. Transpersonal Psychology:
   • Concept: This field explores the spiritual aspects of human experience and emphasizes the potential for growth beyond the ego. It focuses on achieving higher states of consciousness through acceptance and self-awareness.
   • Proponents: Abraham Maslow, Stanislav Grof, Ken Wilber.
5. Existentialism:
   • Concept: Some strands of existentialism emphasize finding meaning and authenticity through acceptance of one’s existence and embracing freedom and responsibility.
   • Proponents: Jean-Paul Sartre, Viktor Frankl, Søren Kierkegaard.
6. Positive Psychology:
   • Concept: Positive psychology focuses on strengths, virtues, and factors that contribute to human flourishing. It emphasizes cultivating positive emotions and acceptance to achieve well-being.
   • Proponents: Martin Seligman, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Barbara Fredrickson.
7. Sufism:
   • Concept: Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, emphasizes the direct experience of God through love, devotion, and acceptance of the divine will. It promotes a state of inner peace and unity with the divine.
   • Proponents: Rumi, Ibn Arabi, Al-Ghazali.

These philosophies and their proponents advocate for an approach to life that emphasizes acceptance, presence, and harmony with the natural flow of existence, often leading to a deeper sense of peace, fulfillment, and awakening.

Tantra Philosophy

The Tantra approach, particularly as it is understood in the spiritual traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism, is another profound method that emphasizes living through acceptance, bliss, and an integrated experience of life. Here’s an overview:

Concept: Tantra is a spiritual tradition that seeks to unify the spiritual and the material, embracing all aspects of life as pathways to spiritual growth and enlightenment. It teaches that the divine exists within the world and within the self, and that spiritual practice involves recognizing and harnessing this divine energy. Unlike some ascetic paths, Tantra often involves practices that engage the senses and the body, recognizing them as vehicles for spiritual experience.

Key Principles:

• Non-Duality: Like Advaita Vedanta, Tantra posits that there is no fundamental separation between the sacred and the mundane, the spiritual and the material.
• Energy and Kundalini: Tantra often focuses on awakening and directing the kundalini energy believed to reside at the base of the spine. This energy, once awakened, rises through the chakras, leading to higher states of consciousness.
• Integration: Rather than renouncing the world, Tantra seeks to integrate and transform all aspects of life, including sexuality, emotions, and sensory experiences, into paths of spiritual realization.
• Ritual and Practice: Tantric practices often involve rituals, mantras, meditation, visualization, and sometimes physical postures or movements designed to align and awaken the spiritual energy within.

Major Proponents and Texts:

• Shiva and Shakti: In Hindu Tantra, the divine is often personified as the union of Shiva (pure consciousness) and Shakti (creative energy). The interplay between these forces is central to Tantric practice.
• Abhinavagupta: A philosopher and mystic of Kashmir Shaivism, Abhinavagupta wrote extensively on Tantric philosophy, emphasizing the experiential realization of the unity of consciousness and energy.
• Padmasambhava: In Tibetan Buddhism, Padmasambhava is credited with bringing Tantric Buddhism to Tibet. His teachings emphasize the transformation of all experiences into opportunities for enlightenment.

Modern Interpretation and Practices:

• Osho (Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh): A contemporary spiritual teacher who integrated Tantric principles into his teachings, emphasizing the acceptance of life’s pleasures as pathways to spiritual awakening.
• Daniel Odier: A contemporary Tantric teacher and author who emphasizes the direct experiential aspects of Tantra, including meditation, yoga, and ritual practices.

Living Through Bliss and Acceptance in Tantra:

Tantra’s approach to life through bliss and acceptance involves recognizing the sacredness of all experiences and using them as tools for spiritual growth. By fully engaging with the present moment and all its aspects—sensual, emotional, and intellectual—Tantra teaches that one can attain a state of unity with the divine. This approach rejects the dichotomy between the sacred and the profane, advocating for a holistic embrace of life as a continuous opportunity for spiritual realization.

In summary, Tantra offers a rich and complex path that aligns well with the idea of growing through acceptance and bliss. It emphasizes the integration of all aspects of life into a unified, sacred experience, encouraging practitioners to find the divine within the mundane and to use every experience as a means of spiritual awakening.

Conclusion: Embracing Multiple Pathways to Harmony and Enlightenment

In exploring the various philosophical and spiritual traditions that emphasize growth through acceptance and bliss, we see a common thread of harmony and effortless living. From Deleuze’s generative nature of problems to Lao Tzu’s principle of “wu wei,” and from the Tantric integration of the sacred and mundane to the mindfulness of Zen Buddhism and the rational acceptance of Stoicism, each tradition offers a unique path to personal and spiritual growth.

These diverse perspectives highlight that there is no single way to achieve fulfillment and enlightenment. Whether through the challenges and solutions of problems or through the peace and acceptance of bliss, each path contributes to a broader understanding of human experience. Embracing these multiple pathways allows us to appreciate the richness and complexity of life, finding harmony in the interconnectedness of all things.

By recognising and integrating these philosophies, we can cultivate a life of balance, where growth is not solely defined by overcoming problems but also by embracing the natural flow of existence. In doing so, we align ourselves with the deeper rhythms of the universe, achieving a state of profound peace and fulfillment.

Final thoughts

Although many traditions suggest that problems and suffering are essential pathways to growth, there is another way—one that embraces bliss, pleasure, and enjoyment. While life itself presents various challenges and problems, we can choose to grow through experiences of joy and fun. By integrating philosophies that highlight acceptance, effortless action, and harmonious living, such as Taoism’s “wu wei,” Tantra’s unity of the sacred and mundane, and Zen Buddhism’s mindfulness, we can cultivate a life that celebrates both the struggles and the blissful moments.

These diverse perspectives show that there is no single route to fulfillment and enlightenment. Embracing multiple pathways allows us to appreciate the richness and complexity of human experience, finding growth and harmony through both challenges and joy. By aligning ourselves with the natural flow of existence, we can achieve a state of profound peace and fulfillment, demonstrating that growth through bliss and fun is not only possible but profoundly enriching.

Tip: Choose Your Path to Growth

Every morning, we have a choice: to grow through the affirmation of life and enjoyment or through engaging with problems and challenges. It’s up to us. By choosing to embrace bliss, pleasure, and fun, we align ourselves with a path of harmonious growth and fulfillment.

As Rumi beautifully said, “Christ is the population of the world, and every object as well. There is no room for hypocrisy. Why use bitter soup for healing when sweet water is everywhere?” Let this reminder guide you to seek the sweet water of life, finding growth through joy and acceptance.