Unlock the Mystical Depths: Adyashanti Reveals the Hidden Essence of Being in Human Connections

VIDEO LINK: The Presence under the Personality (Excerpt)

In our fast-paced, achievement-oriented culture, the concept of “being” often takes a backseat. We are so attuned to defining ourselves and others through what we do, achieve, or appear as, that we seldom pause to truly encounter the deeper essence of one another. In a thought-provoking video by Adyashanti, a revered spiritual teacher, many layers of superficial introductions are peeled back to reveal a deeper connection that transcends societal constructs and personal accomplishments.

Adyashanti dives deep into the notion of being, a concept that, in its simplicity, is profoundly elusive. He suggests that when we meet someone, beyond the visible façade—race, occupation, personality, or even gender—we are genuinely encountering an inexplicable presence. This presence is the core of our being, the essence that remains after we strip away all layers of identity and pretense.

In Western culture, our social interactions are typically grounded in what we do and achieve. Conversations often start with questions like, “What do you do?” This focus on doing rather than being underlines how we derive our sense of identity largely from our actions and roles. Adyashanti points out that such an approach creates an almost inherent denial of being. This unintentional oversight keeps us from connecting with one another on a more profound level.

Contrasting Western customs with cultural norms in other parts of the world, Adyashanti reflects on greetings like “Namaste,” which translates to, “I honor that place in you where the entire universe resides.” Such a greeting acknowledges the presence within each individual, facilitating a being-to-being connection rather than a superficial interaction based merely on roles and actions. While the average person worldwide might not deeply grasp the concept of being any better than someone in the West, certain cultural practices seem to celebrate it to a greater extent.

Adyashanti provides a thoughtful examination of how our relationships evolve over time. Typically, as we get to know someone better, we predict their reactions and behaviors more accurately. This predictability, while useful, can lead us to assume we fully understand the person and, consequently, we may stop paying close attention. He notes that while this is conventional, it inadvertently causes us to overlook the profound, ever-unfolding mystery of the presence within the other person.

For those truly attuned to another’s presence, the more time spent with someone doesn’t make them more predictable but rather enhances the sense of mystery. On a superficial level, we might still predict behavior and finish each other’s sentences, but beneath that façade, the true essence of a person becomes more translucent and awe-inspiring. This growing transparency allows us to see through the layers of habitual actions and connect with the deeper presence, the being itself.

In this way, when we maintain an open, attentive awareness in our long-term relationships, we realize we cannot fully know anyone. There will always be elements of mystery and a presence that we can sense but never completely define or confine. This insight reminds us to stay present and truly engage with the deeper essence of the people in our lives.

Adyashanti’s views serve as a gentle yet profound reminder to shift our focus from doing to being, to recognize and honor the presence within ourselves and others. By doing so, we can foster deeper, more meaningful connections beyond the superficial structures of social identity.

We encourage you to watch Adyashanti’s enlightening video linked at the top of this post to explore these timeless insights further and nourish your understanding of being and connection.

—

For more articles and insights on spirituality, stay connected with Soul Connection.