Enlightenment: Truth and Misconceptions

There are various beliefs and misconceptions surrounding the attainment of enlightenment. Some claim it takes countless lifetimes, while others assert it can be achieved much more quickly. In this piece, we will explore the true nature of enlightenment and the journey towards it.

The True Path to Enlightenment

According to the teachings of Buddhism and Yoga, a branch of Hinduism, enlightenment can be achieved within a relatively short period. The Buddha is reported to have stated that practicing mindfulness meditation can lead to enlightenment in as little as 7 days, and in some cases, up to 7 years in a single lifetime. This is the fruit of Arahantship, or the state of complete enlightenment. However, achieving the highest level of enlightenment, similar to that of the Buddha, is believed to require countless lifetimes.

However, the idea that enlightenment requires numerous lifetimes is often based on a number of illusory concepts. In reality, each lifetime is a simultaneous manifestation of the infinite consciousness. There is no progression of lifetimes, nor is there a path or journey to enlightenment. The infinite consciousness is present in all lives and all experiences, but it is not limited to any single one.

Lifetimes as Simultaneous Manifestations

The true self, Infinite Consciousness, experiences all lifetimes and all experiences simultaneously. The illusory 'me' is merely a reflection of this consciousness, but it is not a permanent, separate personality. This illusory 'me' may conceive of itself as possessing life knowledge, wisdom, understanding, a particular body, experiences, and a history, but in reality, the true self is eternal, infinite, and always present.

When enlightenment is attained, it reveals the truth that has always been and will always be: an unchanging, pristine, infinite, transcendent bliss. This moment of realization is the attaining of enlightenment, the revelation of reality.

Beyond New Age Misconceptions

It is important to note that the idea of attaining enlightenment quickly is a relatively modern belief, not something that existed just a few decades ago. Those who promote the notion of quick enlightenment are often seeking to make a profit from their teachings or have been influenced by New Age thought, which often prioritizes instant gratification and positive feelings.

The New Age movement interprets ancient teachings in a way that is more accessible and appealing to modern individuals, but this approach can sometimes lead to distortions of the original teachings.

The Reality of Enlightenment

Enlightenment is a path that everyone is on, and every individual is at a different stage of this path. It does take several lifetimes to reach the ultimate perfection of one's spiritual development and maturity. The journey is not about the accumulation of experience over countless lifetimes, but about revealing the truth that is always present.

I have written extensively on the topic of experiencing enlightenment on my blog. You are welcome to read more and engage in the meditation and practices I have taught. Enlightenment is the path we are all on, and understanding the true nature of this path is the key to achieving it.