Thursday 9 June 2011

Enlightenment is Spitefulness

To place Enlightenment within the context of Equality, here is a brief description of the process of becoming 'Enlightened'. Enlightenment is nothing more than a realization of self, or no-self as some would prefer - a term designed to describe a state of being based on a unique perspective of ones reality. Furthermore, it is the letting go of the beliefs, ideas, perceptions and judgements which barricade the path of the practitioner. All of which prevent one from achieving the attainment, and are based on the outflows of 'samsara' (wheel of birth and death) and/or 'karma' one has acquired throughout various lifetimes.

A practitioner who is seeking enlightenment follows fundamental principles in order to assist oneself to realization. Typically, these are;

1. Understanding of the 4 noble truths
  1. Suffering
  2. The Origin of Suffering
  3. The Cessation of Suffering
  4. The Path that leads to the Cessation of Suffering

2. Following the Eightfold path

  1. Right Understanding
  2. Right Intention
  3. Right Speech
  4. Right Action
  5. Right Livelihood
  6. Right Effort
  7. Right Mindfulness
  8. Right Concentration

3. The practice of Meditation in order to develop a clear state of mind unclouded by thoughts and anxiety.


Anyone can investigate these simple principles and take up the practice of Buddhism. Buddhism recognizes that the origin of the cycle of suffering can be observed by working with ones own mind and thoughts. Meditation is used in order to clear and focus ones mind so one can stop grasping and chasing after these thoughts. Once the mind has become still, it becomes clear, and one is able to more easily see into the nature of ones reality. In general, it is helpful to have a teacher that can direct and assist one to 'stick to the path' so to speak.

The primary Buddhist perspective is that of seeing all of existence as suffering. From that, a practitioner seeks to extract oneself from this suffering in order to attain the highest state of bliss (no-self). There is a major problem with that ideology however.

The problem is that the final realization or awakening - as that of placing self as separate from ones physical reality - is not the case in actuality. To think that one is separate, and/or can extract oneself from the totality of existence as a whole (wheel of samsara), is SPITEFULNESS towards all of existence as self as the physical reality. To give a practical example. A Buddhist monk achieves the highest state of nirvana/enlightenment where he/she no longer requires rebirth and is no longer existing within a human physical body. This being would thus (in theory) enjoy a blissful existence, free from suffering. How does that assist those who continue to endure torture and suffering here on Earth? Answer - it does not.

From the perspective of Equality, this is abdication of responsibility and therefore totally unacceptable. This is nothing more than a form of ascension, thus claiming one is 'special' for having achieved this state of being. Seeing self as separate, as opposed to seeing all as self, and thus honoring all life as self. When one sees all as equal as self, then it is clear common sense that we must all assist each-other to stop the suffering caused by delusional fear of facing self, as what we have accepted and allowed in our world. Only then can we put an absolute end to the extensive abuse and suffering existent within our world.

One can believe one is 'Enlightened' and attempt to extract oneself from the wheel of samsara, yet one can not escape the reality of self as 'one with' and 'connected to' all of existence. There is actually no escape from yourself. Therefore all Buddhist practitioners and those seeking enlightenment are subjecting themselves to a very rude awakening. It is suggested that each one investigate Equality extensively, in order that we may all take responsibility for ourselves in our world, and make this a place where all are given equal opportunity for a dignified life. The most practical solution is Equal Money for All. This is the platform which will give rise to heaven on earth, for everyone. Join Desteni!

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