Nondualism is the idea that reality is not characterized by dualism and division at the most fundamental level, but is in fact a single indivisible continuum. However, because all thoughts, words, and concepts are inherently dualistic, nondualism maintains that nothing can be said about reality at the deepest level. We can only use duality to point beyond itself, to the truth of existence.
Nondualism versus the Dualistic MindAs an exercise, it is instructive to try to have a nondualistic thought. In order to think of anything in particular, the subject of the thought must be isolated from everything it is not, thereby establishing duality by default. In reality, it is impossible to form a nondualistic thought or concept. Similarly, as language is the expression of thoughts and concepts, it is therefore inherently dualistic as well.
Anything that can be defined as a "thing" exists within a thoroughly dualistic framework. Things are defined and given meaning by distinguishing them from other things, which is a dualistic operation.
Only the whole of existence itself can be said to be nondualistic, because there is nothing outside the whole of existence to distinguish it from. Therefore, reality as a whole is not a "thing." Rather, it is the context within which distinctions are drawn by the human mind, causing things to be defined conditionally.
For this reason, the mind's efforts to define and conceptualize reality as a whole are doomed from the outset. Only things can be defined and conceptualized, owing to the fact that they can be distinguished from other things in a dualistic manner. Being nondualistic in nature, the whole of reality transcends human understanding.
Language in Nondualism - "Useful Folly"
Despite the hopelessness of successfully capturing reality as a whole in a conceptual box, language remains useful as a way of pointing to what lies beyond its own capacity to express. In Taoism, approaching nonduality (Tao) through language is described as "necessary folly." In Buddhism, and particularly Zen, similar terms are used. There is often an element of humor surrounding this subject in Taoism and Zen, recognizing the paradoxical nature of using words to approach what is beyond words.
Ultimately, the purpose of pointing to nonduality with words and concepts is to encourage the listener to let go of all such words and concepts and allow a direct, unconditioned experience of reality to present itself in the individual's awareness. Most nondualist teachers stress that no effort is required to attain this experience. It simply occurs naturally when thoughts and words finally cease.
Toward this end, language can serve as a useful "invitation" to a more substantial practice, generally involving regular meditation. Clearing the mind is the only way to make room for a direct, unconditioned experience of reality. If pointing to nondual awareness with words and concepts can entice individuals to begin a more substantial practice, the "necessary folly" of talking about that which cannot be talked about will have proven beneficial.
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