Overview This document describes a project to develop a meaning-based, dynamic model of mental states and appearances using Buddhist sources, particularly the Bardo Thödol (Tibetan Book of the Dead). The goal is not to answer questions in a factual sense, but to model how states of awareness change in response to shifts in internal and external constraints. The resulting model will inform a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system driven by a Large Language Model (LLM) to support reflective inquiry into mind, awareness, death, and transformation.

1. Philosophical and Structural Foundations The working hypothesis is that mental states arise from interactions between awareness and constraints—some physical (like bodily condition), others subtle (like habitual tendencies, emotional patterns, or energetic flow). Drawing a simile with quantum field theory, we treat awareness as occupying or resonating with certain configurations within a “mind field.” Transitions between these configurations resemble phase changes in physical systems.

We aim to describe these transitions using structured descriptors, initially in JSON format, which allow:

• Flexibility and extensibility
• Encoding of mental conditions, appearances, and symbolic imagery
• Links between successive states or triggers for transitions

2. Source Material and Analysis Method We begin with the Bardo Thödol due to its rich, symbolic descriptions of dissolution, mental appearances, and spiritual thresholds. The six-element practice and stupa symbolism will also inform our framework.

Key steps in analysis:

• Extract narrative segments that involve state changes
• Identify triggers or constraints lifted/imposed
• Determine resulting qualities of mind and appearances
• Describe each transition and state in terms of the JSON schema

Later sources such as the Abhidharma, Wheel of Life, and Sutra of Golden Light will extend the model temporally and thematically, allowing a broader range of contexts.

3. Aims of the Model The model is intended to:

• Represent the dynamics of mind with precision and openness
• Be usable by a RAG-based system to guide conversation about the nature of mind, self, and liberation
• Support mentoring, meditation guidance, reflective education, and creative transformation
• Provide a platform to compare ordinary and extraordinary states such as meditation, dying, dreaming, trauma, or creativity

4. Approach to JSON Representation Each mental state or transition is represented with descriptors such as:

• id, stage, element, withdrawal
• bodily_signs, mental_signs, symbolic_image
• constraints_released, field_effect, next

These entries are empirical but symbolic, structured but flexible. They serve as dynamic reference points in a tensor-like meaning space that the LLM can navigate.

5. Integration with RAG and LLM Rather than answering fixed questions, the system will:

• Detect or be given a current mental condition
• Navigate the network of states and transitions
• Suggest next steps, reflections, or symbols
• Open inquiry into freedom and clarity

We aim to develop a wise, patient conversational companion that helps users orient themselves and reflect on experience, grounded in Buddhist psychological insight and the dynamic reality of awareness.

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This document captures the conceptual thread of the project. The technical implementation details are documented separately.