(Book 51 Highest Yoga Tantra and Mahamudra《無上密與大手印》)
‧Written by Sheng-yen Lu‧
(continued from pg6 , TBN issue # 1070)
The right hand rests on the left hand with two thumbs touching each other. He places this mudra beneath the navel and enters into meditative absorption. He also wears a thin layer of white celestial clothing, a skirt made of mul- tiple textiles such as blue brocade and silk, and a green sash wrapped around his waist.
The inner merits of Vairocana represent the bright dharma realm of suchness, and the outer merits represent the illumination of all sentient beings without hindrances. These merits are perfect, constant, and unchanged. The merits also embody the Buddha-nature of all sentient beings and buddhas, so the brilliance of the merits is omni-present. It is called the “Light of a Tathagata,” which equally illuminates all dharma realms.
Vairocana is always sitting and is never seen in a standing posture. This carries a deeper meaning. Since he is the central figure of the Dhyani Buddhas, he is depicted in images as entering into profound deep meditation. Thus, the teachings of Mahamudra begin with the meditation posture of Vairocana, where the legs are crossed in the full-lotus position and the soles of the feet face upwards.
Some who have short legs or stiff joints may find it impossible to cross their legs and form the full-lotus position. However, they should at least attempt to adjust their soles to face upwards and pull their legs towards the body to achieve a balanced posture.
The hands form the Dharmadhatu Mudra with palms facing upwards, resting beneath the navel point. The right hand is placed over the left hand. One may form an alternate mudra with the tip of the middle fingers touching each other and the thumbs placed at the lower portion of the index fingers. We can use either of these two mudras, so long as the mudra that we form is consistent.
Keep the chest up and slightly move the shoulders backwards. The chin is slightly tucked in, just like a soldier would raise his chest and tuck his chin in during training. Press the tongue lightly against the upper palate. This is of vital importance. Taoists refer to this as “bridging heaven and earth” or “building a celestial bridge.” When animals go into hibernation, they also rest with their tongues touching the upper palate. When a practitioner first practices Mahamudra, he will not be able to enter into true tranquility if his tongue does not touch his upper palate.
(to be continued)
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