In other words, all of my books are lies. They are simply maps of a territory, shadows of a reality, gray symbols dragging their bellies across the dead page, suffocated signs full of muffled sound and faded glory, signifying absolutely nothing. And it is the nothing, the Mystery, the Emptiness alone that needs to be realized: not known but felt, not thought but breathed, not an object but an atmosphere, not a lesson but a life.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Books and symbols are limited maps of reality; true understanding comes from experiencing the mystery beyond them.
- In plain terms
- Words cannot capture reality; you must feel the emptiness behind them.
- What can you take from it?
- Seek direct experience over intellectual knowledge.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What lies beyond words?
- How do you know what you know?
Another view
Some knowledge is only accessible through language and symbols.
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My ankle hurts from dancing last night so there is pain. But the pain doesn't hurt me for there is no me.
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