The Path to Enlightenment: Practices and Realizations
Enlightenment, according to esteemed figures in Eastern mysticism such as Adi Shankaracharya, is a profound journey that culminates in self-realization. This journey can be approached through a three-step process: Shravana, Manana, and Nididhyasa, which encompass listening, contemplating, and establishing oneself in the highest truth.
The Start: Listening to Self-Knowledge
The first step in this process, Shravana, involves listening to the teachings of an enlightened master. This step serves as the foundation upon which further understanding and realization are built. One must actively engage in the teachings and seek guidance from an enlightened teacher, as this forms the core of one's spiritual development.
Understanding and Verification
Following Shravana is the step of Manana, which involves contemplating and analyzing the teachings one has received. This process requires deep introspection and self-awareness. It mandates a thorough examination of the teachings, ensuring that one's comprehension aligns with the principles of enlightenment.
Establishment in Truth
The final step, Nididhyasa, is to establish oneself in the highest truth through continuous practice. This step involves deeply internalizing the teachings, integrating them into one's life, and living in accordance with them. Only through consistent effort and genuine commitment can one truly realize the self and attain enlightenment.
Self-realization, or the process of recognizing the true nature of one's self, is a foundational aspect of spiritual growth. It is a challenging task that requires persistent effort and a willingness to examine and transform one's own thoughts and behaviors. The journey often involves self-editing, justifying, and rationalizing certain actions, making it a multifaceted and intricate process.
The Return of the Narrative Self
According to the teachings of ancient Eastern mysticism, enlightenment entails the cessation of the narrative self, the internal monologue that judges perceptions and reinforces the feeling of “I.” While the first step can be liberating, as it releases a significant amount of mental energy, the absence of the narrative self brings a profound stillness. When the narrative self ceases to dominate one's thoughts, a deep sense of clarity and vivid perception emerge.
The Body and Mind in Harmony
It is essential to note that while the narrative self ceases to exist, the body does not cease to be. The narrative self, which is often a stream of thought and self-talk, is contrasted with the physical body. When the body's attention is free from its inner talk, even for a brief interval, one can experience a heightened state of awareness. This experience, however, is not for everyone and can be unnerving.
The journey to enlightenment is challenging and often takes many years, sometimes even a lifetime. It is a process that requires persistent effort and a deep commitment to understanding and transforming one's nature. As one progresses, the internal monologue diminishes, and the person abandons the journey to have a free attention freed from the attractiveness and limitations of commentary, opinion, judgment, and preferences.
For many, this process can take decades to produce tangible results. It is a laborious and demanding journey, but one that can lead to profound and meaningful personal transformation.
In conclusion, the journey to enlightenment is a multifaceted and challenging path that requires steadfast commitment and continuous effort. Through the process of self-realization, individuals can transcend their limited perception of self and experience a deeper, more profound level of understanding and peace.