By Victor M Fontane
Contemplation (Sī) refers to all thought processes constructed through language. There are phenomena subject to contemplation (Si-lakṣaṇa) and phenomena beyond contemplation (Acintya-lakṣaṇa), yet both are perceived through the lens of self (Ātman).
The true nature of reality, encompassing both existence and non-existence, transcends contemplation (Acintya-lakṣaṇa) and resides within the mindstream (Citta). The Middle Way (Madhyamā-pratipad) transcends the duality of being and non-being. Bodhisattvas transcend all conceptualizations, both conceivable and inconceivable.
Bodhisattvas, dwelling in the realm of the inconceivable (Acintya), perceive the inherent Buddha-nature of all beings and understand the diverse karmic influences accumulated since beginningless time (Anādi-kalpa). Unlike ordinary beings, they do not engage in disputes over what can or cannot be conceptualized.
Without human conceptualization, the universe as we know it, defined by human language, would not exist. Can we be considered creators of the universe? Perhaps yes, perhaps not. The very concept of "universe" is a human construct, based on observation and interpretation. Without human observation, record-keeping, and calculation, there would be no concept of time, let alone a human-defined Earth.
Because our consciousness defines our reality, each individual can be both a creator and a creation within the framework of their own understanding of the universe. This is the true nature of reality (Dharmatā).
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