Ram Dass discusses the importance of detaching from perspectives and models of the universe. He warns against becoming addicted to a single perspective and emphasizes the need to trust our intuitive validity. The podcast also explores the concept of addiction in our culture and the limitations of the mind. Reflecting on personal experiences, the hosts discuss letting go of attachments and the process of becoming finished with different things in life. They also share insights on therapy, healing, and profound realizations.
58:55
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Freedom in No Mind
Attachment to any model or definition closes you off from the universe's fullness.
The Buddhist 'state of no mind' frees you by ending attachment to all models.
insights INSIGHT
The Habit of Perspective
We instinctively cling to perspectives, shaping how we view ourselves and the world.
This addiction limits our ability to experience true unity beyond our models.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Contrasting Acts of Touch
In India, old pilgrims massaged Ram Dass's legs purely to honor his spiritual state.
In Los Angeles, a baggage master’s inappropriate touch contrasted this, revealing varied intent behind similar acts.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Ram Dass explores how we can have perspectives and models about the universe without being attached to them, as long as we cultivate the state of no mind and trust our intuitive validity.
Want to be part of the discussion about this episode of Here and Now? Join the Ram Dass Fellowship virtual meetup on January 9th at 5 pm PST. Sign up for the General Fellowship group here to receive more information.
Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/ramdass
This episode of Here and Now is taken from a Ram Dass talk at Colby College in April of 1970. In this talk:
Ram Dass explores how it’s healthy to have perspectives and models about the universe and how things are, but it’s crucial that we don’t become attached to or stuck in that perspective.
Telling stories of his time in far-out places like India, Los Angeles, and heroin treatment centers, Ram Dass shares how it’s all perspective. Having a perspective is harmonious with the Tao, with the way of things, but we can’t get addicted to it and have it become our “reality.” He talks about how things like school and television are designed to keep us stuck in our roles, models, and perspectives.
Ultimately, we can learn to trust our intuitive validity and cultivate the Buddhist state of no mind, where we have finished with our models. We can know the difference between being wise and being knowledgeable.
“As long as you are attached to any model of the universe, to any level of definition of who you are or how it works, you are closed off from the rest of it. And the state of no mind, the Buddhist state of no mind, is where you have finished with models. You don’t even be enlightened, you don’t be anything, there’s just no mind.” – Ram Dass
About Ram Dass:
Ram Dass’ spirit has been a guiding light for generations, carrying along millions on the journey. Ram Dass teaches that through the Bhakti practice of unconditional love, we can all connect with our true nature. Through these teachings, Ram Dass has shared a little piece of his guru, Maharaj-ji, with all who have listened to him.
Ram Dass Here And Now