What Is Enlightenment?

As we start meditating and reading spiritual books, we encounter the word “enlightenment.” Our imagination immediately runs wild and tries to understand the concept of enlightenment. But what is it?

I used to think that enlightenment was a state of being where everything was perfect. The mind would be at peace, and everything would be bliss. I am not so sure any longer.

What if enlightenment doesn’t exist as an end goal? Perhaps it is just another fantasy of the mind. There are good reasons why enlightenment can’t be an experience to hold. Every experience is fleeting. The experience itself can, therefore, not be the supreme.

The question we must look into is this: what is observing the experience? What is there through sadness and joy, low and high? There is a perceiver within us that sees all these experiences come and go. Perhaps enlightenment lies here?

There may be a state of being where the mind stops producing thoughts, and it merges with the supreme. Such a state would mean the person never comes back to common humanity. I instantly think of Buddha, but he kept teaching after he was proclaimed enlightened. Could he teach and interact with the world if he had reached enlightenment?

Enlightenment and the Kingdom of Heaven have parallels. Both speak of a place, within or without, where everything is blessed. The Christian tradition says it will come after death, and eastern traditions are barely different. The only difference is that it is the ego’s death that grants access to this heavenly kingdom. Perhaps the Christian story is a metaphor then?

Featured Posts

10 ways to connect with the energy of Archangel Uriel.

10 Ways to Connect with Archangel Uriel

How to connect with the energy of Archangel Uriel? Use these 10 ways to connect with the energy of Archangel Uriel in your life.
Goddess Artemis.

Goddess Artemis

Goddess Artemis is known as the protector of animals and children. This goddess is also a symbol of fertility and wisdom.
What does it mean when you dream of crystals? Read this article to find out!

Dream of Crystals

When you dream of crystals it can have many different meanings, depending on the type of crystal you see and what it is doing in your dream.
prayer to archangel uriel

Prayer to Archangel Uriel

Use this prayer to archangel Uriel to get his help. This powerful prayer is made to let you receive Uriel's blessings.
archangel raphael

7 Facts About Archangel Raphael

Archangel Raphael is known as a great healer. Here are seven facts about Archangel Raphael that you should know.

Spring Goddess

The Spring Goddess is important in many cultures, including Greek and Norse mythology. We look at her connection with springtime.

Odin’s Magic: Seidr, Runes, and Sacrifice

Odin and magic are deeply intertwined in Norse mythology and modern paganism. Learn more about the role of sacrifice in Odin's magic.
Hawk in nature. Digital artwork.

The Symbolism of Hawks

Hawks symbolize protection, strength, power and focus — all attributes that can benefit us in our spiritual growth.
Angel number 1122.

Angel Number 1122

Angel number 1122 is a powerful reminder that something new is about to enter your life. Learn more about this angelic message.
Wolf with full moon behind him.

Wolf Symbolism through the Ages

The symbolism of wolves is a popular subject in mythology and folklore. Learn about the various stories surrounding wolves.

Leave a Comment