Navigating through life’s conflicts is tied inextricably with inner growth. Herein lies an opportunity for transcendence of conflict through the understanding of nonduality. Let’s examine conflict through this lens, underpinned by wisdom within, via words from different spiritual traditions.
Nonduality
Nonduality is a profound paradox that defies common logic–the idea that all forms of existence are intricately woven, one and the same, with Source. It is the unified field theory of spirituality that liberates us from the entanglements of binary oppositions. It is a higher wisdom identified throughout the spiritual journey, often illuminated through meditation and introspection.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna guides Arjuna, saying, “The supreme Truth is that nothing ever is destroyed” (2.17). This spiritual text brings out the essence of nonduality–nothing is truly separate or destructible; everything is an extension of the same eternal Source.
Buddhist teachings mirror this perspective: “Form is exactly emptiness, emptiness exactly form” (The Heart Sutra). Ultimate material reality is understood as ‘Emptiness’— a non-dualistic state where there is no absolute difference between forms.
From the Bible, we have the profound commandment of “love your neighbor as yourself.” This pointedly has us shatter whatever separations we cling to in ourselves to represent our connection with the Divine.
Nondual: Seeing Conflict in a Bigger Light
Understanding nonduality involves rising above conflicting dichotomies. It is a holistic orientation to see differences as two sides of one coin, facilitating a harmonious, integrated perspective.
Conflict squarely arises from an absence of an inclusive perspective. It materializes when we perceive others’ perspectives as threats; when individual ideologies are so deeply entrenched that collaborative dialogue, let alone goodwill, becomes impossible.
The Tao Te Ching articulates, “True words seem paradoxical” (78). This is a critical insight for approaching conflict with a nondual perspective. It pushes us to reconcile seemingly contradictory positions, encouraging an acceptance of paradoxical truths.
Similarly, the Bible states, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). Even in the midst of deep disagreement, a nondual approach allows the radiance of innate unity to shine through, dispelling divisive shadows.
In Islam, Sufi mystics stress on the nondual nature of existence: “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop” (Rumi). This calls for seeing conflicting views not as drops fighting against each other, but part of the same vast ocean.
… In Conclusion
Understanding conflict, rather than denying conflict, and embracing nonduality is the definition of real transcendence. Our individual narratives about conflict start to shift as we grow on the spiritual path. Our approach to conflict starts to be guided by a nondual awareness, acknowledging the inherent unity in all perspectives, beneath surface differences.
To quote the I Ching, “In the midst of the greatest conflicts, peace can be achieved” (Hexagram 40). This ancient wisdom sums up this integrative journey from understanding nonduality to transcending conflict.
The next time you find yourself amidst conflict, remember: It’s an invitation to seek Common Ground and dissolve perceived differences—a chance to experience the wholeness of existence on a profound level, beyond our disparate points of view.
Ranjeeth Thunga
Perspective Mapper
rkt@perspectivemapper.org