Enlightenment is not just one state
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory Philosophy.
Enlightenment: A Journey Through Many States
Summary:
Enlightenment is not a singular state but a progressive journey through various states of consciousness.
---
Many people tend to think of enlightenment as a singular achievement, a state one enters and remains in indefinitely. However, I believe enlightenment is a progressive journey, a gradual unfolding of deeper states of consciousness.
While I haven’t reached the ultimate destination, my years of exploring the spiritual path have shown me that enlightenment unfolds through stages of self-realization and self-discovery.
Initially, enlightenment begins with an awakening. This is where we have new insights into the dynamics of consciousness. Over time, with practice and experiences, these insights become integrated into our daily lives. Sometimes, new realizations can evolve or even transform previous understandings.
Enlightenment is intrinsically linked with the concept of Presence, which varies in intensity and clarity depending on one's level of understanding and realization. As we advance on this path, our connection to the universe and existence becomes increasingly clear.
Here's a brief look at this progressive journey:
When starting meditation, one might first encounter the all-encompassing Presence, often felt when thoughts pause momentarily. This Presence, experienced in the Eternal Present Moment, represents our true self.
However, this initial experience is merely an awakening to the true self, which transcends the self. Post-meditation, the Presence may seem to vanish, making it difficult to reconnect in daily life. Understanding the link between Presence and our everyday world takes time and realization. Sustaining this Presence is tied to one’s depth of awareness.
In the early stages, we might mistake another state for pure Presence. For example, the "I AM" sensation might be seen as pure Presence, but it is often a reflection created by the thinking mind. This reflection, the absolute as "I AM," must be transcended to reach deeper understandings.
Moving past the "I AM" stage involves realizing that the personality isn’t the true doer of actions. This stage, which may last for some time, leads to the realization of the illusion of subject-object division. It’s here that one begins to perceive through the apparent dichotomy of observer and observed, unveiling the illusory nature of our phenomenal world.
I can’t speak on the stages that lie beyond my experience, as they remain out of my reach. Yet, even from this description, it’s clear that enlightenment is not straightforward or linear.
I encourage you to reflect with discernment. Thank you for reading.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Enlightenment is not just one state.
You can browse and read all the articles for free. If you want to use them and get PLR and MRR rights, you need to buy the pack. Learn more about this pack of over 100 000 MRR and PLR articles.