Samsara is the mind turned outwardly, lost in its projections. Nirvana is the mind turned inwardly, recognizing its true nature.

— Sogyal Rinpoche

That's a beautifully concise and insightful way to describe the fundamental difference between Samsara and Nirvana, two central concepts in Eastern philosophy. It highlights the direction of our attention as the key differentiator.

Samsara, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, is characterized as "the mind turned outwardly, lost in its projections." This vividly portrays how our focus on the external world – our desires, fears, attachments to objects and experiences – keeps us bound to this cycle. Our minds constantly create stories, interpretations, and projections onto reality, leading to illusion and suffering. We become entangled in the drama of our own making, driven by external stimuli and constantly seeking satisfaction outside ourselves.

Nirvana, often described as liberation or enlightenment, is presented as "the mind turned inwardly, recognizing its true nature." This signifies a profound shift in focus. Instead of being lost in the external world, the mind turns its attention back to its source, to the underlying awareness that is our true self. By recognizing this true nature – often described as pure consciousness, emptiness, or interconnectedness – we transcend the limitations and suffering inherent in the cycle of Samsara. This inward turning allows us to see through the illusions of the projected world and realize a state of peace and liberation.

This understanding emphasizes that the difference between suffering and liberation is not a matter of external circumstances, but rather a fundamental shift in the orientation of our own mind. It suggests that the key to Nirvana lies within us, in our ability to redirect our attention and recognize our true nature.

Even amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, this wisdom offers a profound perspective. It reminds us that we have the potential to shift our focus inward, to step out of the projections of the mind, and to touch the peace of our true nature.