Enlightenment: A Journey or an Instantaneous Awakening?

Introduction

There is a common misconception that enlightenment comes in levels, suggesting a gradual process of growth. However, in the realm of spiritual awakening, the idea that enlightenment can be measured in stages is largely refuted. This article explores the true nature of enlightenment, its accessibility, and the experiences of those who have realized it. We will also look into the spectrum of awareness and the different levels that exist within the spiritual journey.

No Levels of Enlightenment

No Levels of Enlightenment

Enlightenment, in simplest terms, is a state where one becomes fully present in the moment for 48 minutes. Yet, the aspect that distinguishes enlightenment is its permanence. Once one experiences it, it is not something that can be lost or undone. The concept of stages or levels of enlightenment is therefore a misunderstanding, as anything that can be attained and measured through levels cannot fully capture the essence of this experience.

Personal Reflections and Experiences

While I have not personally achieved spiritual enlightenment and am still on my quest, I do draw inspiration from the writings and experiences of those who have. For instance, the autobiographies and spiritual texts of individuals like Ahmed Javid, Xu Yun, and Sufi Masters provide invaluable insights into the nature of enlightenment. These books offer a firsthand account of the transformative journey and the real-life experiences that shape these states of being.

Understanding the Growth of Enlightenment

The growth of enlightenment, much like the growth of awareness, is often gradual and subtle. It's a process that is so gradual that it can sometimes go unnoticed, just like the hands of a clock moving second by second. The changes are imperceptible, yet profound over time. This process does not come with a clear measurement, making it difficult to pinpoint at which "level" one stands, as the state of enlightenment itself is instantaneous and timeless.

A Spectrum of Awareness

The Spectrum of Awareness

Understanding the concept of enlightenment can also be approached through the lens of a spectrum. Much like the spectrum of age, where we have everything from a 5-year-old to an 85-year-old, the spectrum of awareness allows us to recognize different states of consciousness. This can be visualized as steps in a spectrum, such as the levels of Super Mario, where each level represents a deeper level of awareness or consciousness.

Two Main Levels of Enlightenment

However, when we delve deeper into the nature of enlightenment, we can distinguish it into two main levels. The first level is what we can refer to as a full-blown enlightenment, which is a state of being that is so profound that it leads to a natural release of the physical body at the moment of realization. Just as you can't remain asleep when you wake up from a dream, you also can't remain in the game of life when you have achieved full enlightenment. This represents the pinnacle of spiritual awareness and realization.

The second level is often referred to as a Bodhisattva level of enlightenment. This is the state where one consciously delays the full realization to remain in the physical world to guide and teach others. This level represents a deeper commitment to the well-being and enlightenment of others, taking the mantle of a spiritual leader or teacher.

Conclusion

Enlightenment is a profound and transformative experience, not just a state that can be measured in levels. While it can be experienced as a gradual process of awareness, the ultimate realization is an instant and timeless state. The journey toward enlightenment is as individual as the person experiencing it, and while this article touches on some of the key aspects, the true nature of enlightenment can only be fully understood through personal experience. By looking into the lived experiences of spiritual leaders and practitioners, we can gain some insights into what it means to truly be enlightened.