You can see the essence of The Bardo Thodol (The Tibetan Book of the Dead) via these meditations

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The Bardo Thodol (The Tibetan Book of the Dead) and phosphene meditations share a profound relationship in their exploration of light as a gateway to spiritual understanding. Both traditions emphasize the transformative potential of light—whether seen as the Clear Light of Ultimate Reality in the Bardo Thodol or the subtle, shifting glows of phosphenes in meditative practice.

The central message of the Bardo Thodol is the recognition of consciousness as inherently luminous and transcendent. According to the text, in the intermediate states between death and rebirth, the soul encounters the Clear Light, the essence of ultimate reality. This light represents pure, unconditioned awareness, free from the veils of fear, desire, or illusion. Similarly, in phosphene meditation, the gentle lights perceived behind closed eyes can serve as a symbol of this inner luminosity. The practice of focusing on these lights allows the meditator to connect with a direct, visceral representation of consciousness itself—a glimpse of the luminous nature described in the Bardo Thodol.

Both traditions teach that light is ephemeral and constantly in motion. The Bardo Thodol describes the bardos as transitional states, emphasizing the impermanence of all experiences, even those of death. By recognizing the fleeting nature of these states, one can transcend them, achieving liberation. In phosphene meditation, practitioners observe how phosphenes form, shift, and dissolve. This process mirrors the transient qualities of life and consciousness, offering a deeply intuitive understanding of impermanence. By staying present and unattached to the changing patterns, meditators cultivate the equanimity required to navigate the bardos.

Liberation in the Bardo Thodol hinges on awareness. The text teaches that recognizing the true nature of experiences within the bardos allows the soul to merge with the Clear Light or to choose its next incarnation consciously. This parallels the practice of phosphene meditation, where attentiveness to the light fosters mindfulness and clarity. Over time, practitioners may transcend ordinary perception, experiencing a profound stillness that echoes the unconditioned awareness described in the Bardo Thodol.

The vivid descriptions of lights, colors, and forms in the Bardo Thodol carry deep symbolic meaning. These phenomena, representing different states of consciousness, can guide or delude the soul. Calmly observing and navigating these forms without succumbing to fear or desire is crucial for liberation. Similarly, the evolving shapes and colors of phosphenes during meditation can serve as a training ground. By observing these patterns with calm detachment, practitioners develop the inner stillness and clarity needed to navigate not only their meditative experiences but also the complex phenomena of the bardos.

Ultimately, both the Bardo Thodol and phosphene meditation act as preparations for the transitions of life, death, and beyond. The Bardo Thodol serves as a guide to help individuals recognize the luminous nature of consciousness at the moment of death, empowering them to transcend karmic entanglements. Phosphene meditation, too, is a form of rehearsal—a way to familiarize oneself with the subtle light of consciousness, preparing for the ultimate moment when this inner light must be met with clarity and courage.

The integration of these two practices reveals a shared insight: light, both literal and symbolic, is the essence of existence. It is through this light that we can access the deeper truths of impermanence, awareness, and liberation. The Bardo Thodol provides a roadmap for encountering the Clear Light in the intermediate state, while phosphene meditation offers a direct, accessible path to exploring that same luminosity within the present moment. Together, they illuminate a journey of self-discovery and transcendence, reminding us of the infinite potential within the light of our own consciousness.