The Intricate Dance of Non-Duality and Dualistic Language: Can Non-Dualists Use Dualistic Language?

When delving into the realm of non-duality, one often encounters a complex interplay between this profound state of awareness and the seemingly contradictory dualistic language used to describe it. The question arises: What is the relationship between non-duality and dualistic language? Can non-dualists effectively use dualistic language to communicate their experiences?

What is Non-Duality?

Non-duality, a state of consciousness or a philosophical concept, represents the realization of the interconnectedness and unity of all things. It transcends the conventional dualistic nature of our perception—such as the binary opposites of subject and object, self and other, mind and matter, and so on. In non-duality, reality is seen as an indivisible whole, where distinctions and separations dissolve into a unified field of awareness.

Dualistic Language and Its Limitations

Dualistic language, rooted in the foundational structure of our everyday thought and communication, relies on binary constructs to convey meaning. This inherent duality manifests in everything from philosophical discussions to scientific explanations. While dualistic language has proven invaluable in shaping human knowledge and understanding, it falls short when attempting to articulate the non-dual experience. Non-duality cannot be comprehended or described through dualistic language alone, as it transcends the boundaries of our conceptual frameworks.

The Limitations of Positive Assertion in Non-Duality

One critical aspect of non-duality is the recognition that any positive assertion about the non-dual state is inherently limited. Non-duality is not something that can be defined or explained; it is experienced as a direct insight into the nature of reality. Any attempt to describe it in dualistic terms risks being overly restrictive and potentially misleading. For example, attempting to say something like "non-duality is..." can only create paradoxes, as the very words we use to describe it refer to a state that transcends description.

Paradox and the Use of Apparent Contradictions

To address this challenge, non-dualists often employ paradox and apparent contradictions in their communication. Paradoxical statements, such as "this is that," "identity is non-identity," or "non-duality is dualistic," serve as a bridge between the dualistic and non-dual states. These statements are not meant to be taken at face value but rather as a form of guidance on how to approach the non-dual experience. While using dualistic language in this manner can be confusing, it is a necessary approach to capture the essence of non-duality. However, these paradoxes should be understood as a form of indication rather than a definitive explanation.

The Role of Passivity in Communication

The use of passive voice can also be a tool in non-dual communication. Passive statements avoid direct subject-object relationships, which can be misleading in the non-dual context. For example, instead of saying "I am beyond words," one might say "Words are beyond me." This passive construction emphasizes the nature of the experience rather than assigning it to a specific subject.

The Absence of Relationship Between Non-Duality and Dualistic Language

Ultimately, the relationship between non-duality and dualistic language is one of separation, despite the usefulness of dualistic language in conveying the non-dual experience. Non-duality is not a state that can be fully captured by dualistic language, as it lies beyond the confines of our mental constructs. While paradoxes and passive voice can bridge the gap between the two, they do not inherently establish a relationship between them. Instead, they serve to illustrate the intricate dance between the dualistic and non-dual worlds.

Conclusion

The communication of non-duality is an enduring challenge, made more complex by the limitations of dualistic language. While non-dualists may use dualistic language to convey their experiences, the nature of non-duality itself disallows positive assertions or clear definitions. Paradox and passive constructions serve as tools to navigate this gap, but the underlying reality remains beyond the reach of typical dualistic frameworks. Understanding this fundamental distinction can deepen our appreciation for the profound nature of non-duality and the ongoing quest to express it.