The Mystery of Enlightenment: Can One Return After Experiencing It?

Enlightenment is a fascinating yet often misunderstood concept in spiritual and philosophical discourse. A common question arises: can someone who has experienced enlightenment return to their ordinary state? This article delves into the nature of enlightenment, addresses the possibility of returning, and explores the potential consequences if such a phenomenon were indeed possible.

Understanding Enlightenment

First and foremost, it is essential to clarify what enlightenment truly entails. Enlightenment is not a destination or a state you can leave behind; it is a continuous awareness and presence in the present moment. As U.G. Krishnamurti once said, 'Enlightenment is not a "place." It is here and now in THIS moment because all there is IS this moment, and your awareness of it or your attempts to distract yourself from it.'

What is Enlightenment?

Enlightenment, in essence, is a profound state of consciousness where one's awareness is unclouded by judgments, desires, and attachments. It is being fully present and aware of one's thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without any form of resistance or distraction. This state is not achieved through experiences or techniques alone; it is a gradual reorientation that occurs over countless lifetimes.

Personal Growth and Reorientation

Techniques and practices can certainly aid in this reorientation but do not necessarily lead to enlightenment. Finding a local monk or experienced teacher can be beneficial. The journey to enlightenment is about focusing on the present moment and observing without judgment. Techniques like meditation, mindfulness, and spiritual teachings are tools that can support this journey, but the ultimate experience lies in the awareness of the present moment.

Can One Return from Enlightenment?

The concept of returning to a state of ordinary consciousness after experiencing enlightenment is a subject of ongoing debate. The spiritual texts and teachings from various traditions often suggest that once enlightenment is grasped, it is a permanent state. However, some spiritual leaders and individuals have reported experiences that might challenge this view.

Historical Examples and Stories

For instance, in the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna, there is a conversation between Sri Ramakrishna and a group of Bauls, musicians from Shibpur. The Master discusses the mental states of these musicians, moving between higher and lower planes of consciousness. While Sri Ramakrishna himself is a prominent example of someone who was fully enlightened and able to explain and teach others, he did not explicitly discuss returning from enlightenment.

"However, stories like the one told by James Swartz can provide some insights. James mentions a Japanese student who was awakened for four years but 'crashed back down again.' This case raises questions about the nature of enlightenment and whether it can be a temporary state.

Disgraced Gurus and Their Claims

The example of disgraced gurus, who are often assumed to have been enlightened in the first place, can also be examined. If they were truly enlightened, how could they have produced more negative karma and fallen from their state? This scenario suggests that their enlightenment might not have been as permanent or complete as once thought. It leads us to question the authenticity of their claims and the permanence of their enlightened state.

The Implications and Consequences

If someone were to return from a state of enlightenment, the potential consequences would be profound. It would imply that the state is not permanent and can be lost or altered. Such a phenomenon would have significant implications for the spiritual journey and the nature of enlightenment itself. It would also challenge the validity of the claims made by many spiritual teachers and leaders.

For those who seek enlightenment, this raises the question: can you return from here and now? This depends on your current state of awareness and the extent of your spiritual journey. Enlightenment, as a permanent state, would mean that you can never return to a state of ordinary consciousness. However, if enlightenment is a temporary condition, then the possibility of returning exists.

Ultimately, the concept of enlightenment is deeply personal and individual. It is about embracing the present moment fully and without judgment. Whether one can return or not, the journey towards greater awareness and presence remains a valuable and transformative path for many.