Nondualistic experiences of light in near-death experiences and in The Tibetan book of the dead

This editorial draws parallels between the light encountered in near-death experiences (NDEs) and the Clear Light described in the Tibetan Book of the Dead. The author recounts their own NDE and compares it with both the Tibetan text and accounts from the near-death literature, suggesting that some NDEs offer a basis for understanding a nondualistic perception of the Clear Light. The author argues that the NDE experiencer may be on the right side of the dividing line in natural liberation, and that the reported light could represent insight into spiritual liberation. The piece closes by comparing messages from NDEs and the Tibetan Book of the Dead, posing questions for future near-death studies.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This editorial brings together two forms of human understand ing of disembodied consciousness: the light in the near-death experience (NDE), and the Clear Light in the Tibetan Book of the Dead. I begin by telling the story of my own NDE. Then I compare my experience with the Tibetan Book of the Dead, to find points where the two are similar. To show that my NDE contained features in common with others, I also compare my experience with those found in the near-death literature. Specifically, I suggest that some NDEs provide a basis for the understanding of a nondualistic perception of the Clear Light. I also explore a broader and more unified understanding of enlightenment, based on the concept of the Clear Light. I argue that the NDEr could be on the right side of the dividing line in natural liberation, explaining how the experience of light as reported by NDErs could represent insight into spiritual liberation. Finally, I close by comparing the message from NDEs and the Tibetan Book of the Dead, and pose questions for future research in the field of near-death studies.