Different Tracks to a Conviction in Emptiness

In this chapter, Rob discusses the necessity of examining the lack of inherent existence in all phenomena from various angles to achieve a deeper understanding and conviction in the principle of emptiness. The practices can be categorized into explorations of fabrication through a phenomenological approach, and analytical meditations that utilize reasoning to showcase that things cannot possess inherent existence.

Direct Phenomenological Approach

The phenomenological approach Burbea explores is concerned with examining phenomena as they are experienced without further assumptions. This stance itself is a significant shift from our habitual thinking, challenging the intuitive belief that we perceive the world as it inherently is. The process involves probing how things, selves, time, and awareness are interdependently fabricated by the mind. This revelation, as it deepens through practice, can radically transform one's perspective on existence.

Analytical Meditation and Individual Convictions

Analytical meditation uses reasoning to demonstrate the impossibility of things existing inherently. It is imperative, Burbea notes, to understand that different individuals may prefer one approach over the other based on which they find more convincing. Recognizing the weight one places on various sources of knowledge—whether meditative experience, logic, intuition, scriptural authority, or common consensus—is crucial in the quest for truth. The ideal is to derive conviction from a holistic integration of these diverse approaches, including both the meditative exploration of fabrication and analytical reasoning.

Inquiry into Parts and Wholes

Burbea introduces a meditation on parts and wholes, using the 'dot-to-dot' meditation from Chapter 7. It is explained that without parts, there can be no whole, and the perception of each depends on the other, revealing they are mutually dependent and thus empty. This comprehension may start with recognizing a whole as a fabrication of the mind, which leads to a deeper examination of the parts, seeing them as dependent on an illusory whole and by extension, also empty. Through this insight, practitioners can experience a sense of freedom and groundlessness.

The Emptiness of Body and Material Forms

The teachings of the Buddha and Chandrakīrti on the emptiness of the body and material forms are examined. Burbea suggests contemplating the constant exchange between the body and its environment, recognizing that the categorization of 'a car' or 'a body' is merely an imputation of the mind. Even regarding the most fundamental materials, no inherent existence can be found. He suggests employing analytical methodologies, such as the sevenfold reasoning or the neither-one-nor-many reasoning, to uncover the emptiness of matter at its most basic levels.

The Neither-One-Nor-Many Reasoning

The neither-one-nor-many reasoning is a standalone reasoning that once understood, can be applied to all phenomena to evoke a profound realization of emptiness. It argues that since nothing can be found to be inherently singular nor inherently manifold, all things lack inherent existence. Burbea emphasizes that these ways of looking should be practiced with patience and samādhi to prevent unhelpful mental proliferation and to truly internalize and experience the liberating insights they offer.

In conclusion, CHAPTER 22 of "Seeing That Frees" urges practitioners to incorporate a diverse array of meditation techniques and reasonings into their practice to reach a fuller, more grounded insight into the emptiness of all phenomena. By understanding the interdependence and the constructed nature of experience, individuals can move towards liberation from reification and the associated sufferings.