| This dissertation is an historical and theoretical study of the possibilities for the development of humankind, an inquiry into the inner experience of self-consciousness and transcendence that manifests in the awakening of perfect wisdom, through the power of limitless knowledge. Wisdom literature from the Vedic and Buddhist traditions is discussed, focusing on the Three Knowledges of Light and The Clear Light Theory of Vajrakaya.;This inquiry was based on Buddhist scriptures, in the context of a spiritual understanding of human existence within the biosphere, and the ecological relationship between human life and nature. The schematic description developed a dialectic relationship between theory, literature review, research questions, and personal experience. Scriptures from the Vedas, Upanishads, Vajrayana Buddhism, Tantra, and Taoism were examined, specifically regarding the literature of enlightenment and their methods of attainment with the intent to analyze and appreciate their differing perspectives.;Findings of this study indicated that the vajra methaphor functions as a symbol of the levels of spiritual transformation. Vajra, the masculine principle of the divine, represents relative dualism and postulates the unity of opposites and inner relationships. The vajra path (Vajrayana) emphasizes meditation and spiritual disciplines. Prajna (transcendental insight) represents the female principle of perfect wisdom, and upaya (skillful means) represents the male principle of compassion for the salvation of others. Both entities personify creative forces of the universe. Man (vajra) and woman (padma) are endowed with Buddha nature and contribute to the advancement of human civilization. Sunyata (emptiness or void) is the spiritual realization of the Middle Way in Buddhist philosophy and holds vast possibilities for infinite knowledge and moral order. Human beings, as a stream of pure consciousness, possess the compassionate nature of the Buddha's heart as well as omniscient knowledge.;This inquiry into the human condition concluded that it is possible to overcome suffering: Through the transformation of consciousness, human beings actualize the potential for working toward perfect harmony, universal peace, and achieving nirvana. Universal peace resides in human the heart as the spirit-light manifesting in the phenomenal world, continually intertwining with the cosmos. |
