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What is Spiritual Enlightenment? 4 Common Questions Answered

By Operation Meditation

1. Spiritual Enlightenment in a Nutshell

Many people seek answers to the question, “What is spiritual enlightenment?” Answers can vary somewhat, and there is no one straight-forward answer. It means different things for different people, and there are many aspects to consider and include in any answer. If you have learned something profound and deep, which you then incorporate into your very being, this is a form of enlightenment.

Enlightenment can mean a feeling of understanding that you are more than just your mind, more than just your body, and that there is something else at work.

A fundamental aspect of enlightenment is awareness of how one should live their life to fulfill a higher purpose, along with respect for others, nature and the wider world. Enlightened beings are above the sufferings of humankind, and filled with love, grace and compassion. They have a deeper understanding of a greater purpose and live a rich, happy and fulfilled existence.

Becoming enlightened involves awakening consciousness and becoming more aware. However, consciousness could be said to always be awake and aware, but that the degree of these varies with individuals according to how enlightened they have become. Enlightenment could therefore be said to be a change, or increase, in the levels of consciousness and awareness.

It is often wise not to have too many preconceived ideas about what enlightenment is supposed to be or feel like, and instead look at your own experiences; you must examine closely your own experiences and feelings to understand, at least in part, what is spiritual enlightenment.

2. I’m Not Religious …..

Spirituality and associated practices need not be affiliated to any religion. Indeed, many people choose not to follow a prescribed religion, instead preferring to be lead by intuitiveness and inner feelings.

3. How Can I Achieve Enlightenment?

There is not one single way for people to achieve enlightenment. Meditation plays a large role in helping people to realize their full potential on the path to enlightenment, but it is not the only means of achieving it.

A quiet mind is vital for enlightenment; stilling the incessant thoughts that constantly and repetitively whizz around our heads. The more that people are able to tune out the thoughts that our brains constantly produce, the more they are likely to listen to wisdom from within.

Fears must be released in order to transcend to a state of complete happiness and bliss. This is not easy, but is possible. Meditation can help to overcome fears and insecurities.

Attachments to things and people should be let go. Pain in life is a way of being told that something needs to change. You should be able to enjoy life independently of other people and material things. Also, be true to yourself and stop living a life based on what other people, or conventional society, want.

Accept that you cannot always be right, and that there will be things that you do not understand. Learn how to be more tolerant.

4. How Long Will it Take?

Spiritual awakening is a complex and often lengthy process, with the vast majority of people never reaching full enlightenment. It is not a fast process. There are many things to learn along the way. People seeking a better understanding and awareness must be patient. Truths will be revealed to them gradually along the way. There is certainly no quick-fix scheme for enlightenment.

Enlightenment cannot be forced on a whim. Nor can it be hurried up. Of course, there are steps people can take to increase the likelihood of becoming enlightened, but patience and acceptance are major factors when seeking enlightenment.

It is sometimes said that the harder one seeks to become enlightened, the more difficult it is to achieve; enlightenment comes to those who are already at peace, receptive to receiving information, and patient, as opposed to desperately pursuing it.

Additionally, stages of enlightenment may fluctuate, with one day things being seen with complete clarity and understanding, and the next day a sense of doubt prevailing. This is normal. In time, certainty should become the dominant feeling, winning out over doubts and skepticism.

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