Foundations of Emptiness Practices

Rob Burbea, in this chapter, discusses the meditation practices tied to the cultivation of samādhi, which are instrumental in understanding the fabricated nature of experience. Additionally, these practices reveal the lack of inherent existence in things, defying even our most fundamental beliefs about existence, including concepts such as awareness, space, time, and the present moment. Through incrementally deepened practices, one can alleviate suffering by recognizing the 'emptiness' or fabricated nature of various elements of experience, which might appear inherently solid but are in truth wholly constructed through human convention and perception.

Social Conventions and the Voidness of Countries

Social conventions offer ample opportunity to observe emptiness. Take countries, for example, which are nothing more than collective human agreements lacking inherent existence. Burbea points out that a few centuries ago, concepts like the United States or Germany did not exist; they were formed through a concoction of ideas. Countries are only sustained through common recognition and could cease to exist if the collective beliefs change. By acknowledging that countries are fabrications and perceiving their 'emptiness,' we can prevent the suffering that arises from overly solidifying these concepts, such as violence rooted in nationalistic fervor.

Conditioned Views of Worth

Societal conditioning significantly influences our opinions, feelings, and sense of values. Burbea emphasizes the importance of recognizing that these conditioned views of worth often cause personal suffering, especially when they form the basis of self-esteem. He gives the example of educational environments that assess worth based on narrow criteria, illustrating how culturally conditioned values can enforce a sense of self-worth in unhelpful ways. By recognizing that abilities are not inherently more valuable than others, we enable a more natural self-worth and freedom from the constraints of social conditioning.

Including Body and Emotions in Reflective Practice

Expanding on the impact of social conditioning, Burbea suggests employing a meditative approach to enhance the qualities of boldness and trust needed for self-reflection. He recommends bringing awareness to the physical sensations of strength and confidence as well as skillfully managing difficult emotions. Such awareness can prevent being overtaken by feelings like anger, hurt, or powerlessness, thus promoting a space for creative and liberating thought processes.

Practice: Opening to Freedom and Strength through Reflection

The practice involves settling into meditation, aligning with a sense of strength, and reflecting on personal and societal values that contribute to suffering. By challenging these beliefs and recognizing them as non-inherent truths, one can foster emotional and mental responses that lead to a feeling of strength and freedom.

Seeing the 'Holes' in Things and the Importance of Experimentation

Burbea advocates for viewing life experiences, such as roles and retreats, with an openness that acknowledges their inherent lack of solidity. This recognition of 'holes' in perceptions allows for more freedom and lessens identification with roles. Recognizing that the rigidity of perceptions is contingent and not inherent can lead to a lighter, more liberated way of engaging with the world. He insists on the importance of experimentation with perspectives, noting that the tools of Dharma teachings, including practices of emptiness, should always be used with consideration of their appropriateness and helpfulness. Emptiness practices are about unlocking freedom, not adhering to a singular reality.

In conclusion, the chapter suggests that by observing the emptiness in social constructs such as nations, by challenging our conditioned perceptions of worth, by including our physical and emotional experiences in our reflections, and by examining the solidity of our roles, we can gain a more spacious and less suffering-oriented experience of life. These insights set the stage for deeper exploration into emptiness, that while accessible in meditation, are no less impactful when applied to our daily living.