Bardo

Bardo is a term used in various Buddhist traditions, referring to an intermediate, transitional, or liminal state between death and rebirth. The concept originates from Tibetan Buddhism, where it is known as bardo thödol, meaning "liberation through hearing during the intermediate state". The teachings on bardo also appear in other Buddhist schools, with variations in interpretation and emphasis.

Overview

The concept of bardo encompasses several stages, but it is most commonly associated with the period following death and before rebirth. This period is described in detail in the Tibetan Book of the Dead, a text from the 8th century that serves as a guide for the deceased during the bardo state. According to this text, the consciousness of the deceased encounters various phenomena, including peaceful and wrathful deities, which are projections of their own mind. The text provides instructions on how to navigate these experiences to achieve liberation from the cycle of rebirth, or at least a favorable rebirth.

Stages of Bardo

The traditional Tibetan teachings describe six bardos, divided into three groups:

1. The Bardo of This Life (kye ne bardo): The period of our current life, from birth until death. 2. The Bardo of Meditation (samten bardo): States of meditative absorption experienced in life. 3. The Bardo of Dream (mi lam bardo): The dream state during sleep.

4. The Bardo of Dying (chikhai bardo): The process of dying and the dissolution of the physical and mental constituents. 5. The Bardo of Dharmata (chönyid bardo): The period immediately following death, characterized by the appearance of pure light and ultimate reality, often personified by peaceful and wrathful deities. 6. The Bardo of Becoming (sipa bardo): The final stage, where the consciousness prepares for rebirth, experiencing various karmically determined visions that lead to rebirth.

Significance in Practice

In Tibetan Buddhism, preparation for navigating the bardo states is a central aspect of spiritual practice. This preparation includes meditation, ethical living, and the study of texts like the Tibetan Book of the Dead. The teachings on bardo encourage practitioners to develop awareness, compassion, and understanding of the nature of mind and reality, which are seen as crucial for liberation.

Interpretations in Other Traditions

While the detailed teachings on bardo are specific to Tibetan Buddhism, the concept of an intermediate state is not unique to it. Other Buddhist traditions, and even some non-Buddhist spiritual traditions, have similar concepts, emphasizing the importance of the state of mind at the time of death and its impact on future rebirths.

In Popular Culture

The concept of bardo has transcended its religious origins to influence literature, art, and psychology. It is often used metaphorically to describe transitional states in life, personal transformation, or the unconscious mind.