Signs of Enlightenment: Understanding the Path to Masterfully Awakened States

In the realm of spiritual and mystical pursuits, the concept of a master achieving enlightenment has often been steeped in misunderstanding and myth. Many believe that an enlightened master is a being who has transcended all forms of suffering and existence, experiencing a profound level of awakening. However, the reality is far more complex and rooted in the transformative journey of an individual.

What is Enlightenment?

The path to enlightenment is a deeply personal and experiential one. For instance, consider the Buddha, one of the most renowned figures in the history of spiritual awakening. His journey towards enlightenment involved a profound exploration of the mind and consciousness, delving into realms of existence that are often described as dead. Through meditation, he reached a state known as Tukdam, a deliberate process of self-death or a profound meditative state.

The Process of Enlightenment

Buddha's state of enlightenment is akin to a near-death experience (NDE) that we see today, but attained through a conscious and deliberate effort. In a Tukdam experience, the mind is taken to its ultimate limit, causing it to enter a state of sleep or coma-like condition. It is believed that in this profound state, one can 'die' to their ego and experience their true self.

During this process, the individual visualizes and experiences their past lives, their understanding of the concept of karma and the cycle of rebirth, and the means to end suffering. This is a transformative journey where the individual deconstructs their personality and ego to experience their true self.

Transforming the Personality

An enlightened master, therefore, is someone who has not only experienced their true self but also transformed their personality. This transformation is crucial because the personality is the software that drives our thoughts, emotions, and actions. When an individual achieves enlightenment, they transform their personality, making it aware of its limitations and curbing its previous behaviors.

This transformation of the personality also brings a profound understanding of the brain and mind as the central processors of all realities. We have two realities, the external and the internal. The brain and mind put together these experiences and form our perception of reality. Therefore, the true self is not separate from the brain and mind but exists within the processes that they govern.

Internal and External Realities

The question of what our true reality is often leads us to explore the integrated patterns of brain-mind processes. The wholeness of our being, the place where all aspects of our consciousness come together as one, is the true reality. It is the base pattern of brain-mind processes that reflects the wholeness within us. Only by internalizing and deconstructing our fragmented selves can we fully understand and embrace the true reality of our existence.

Conclusion

The path to enlightenment is not easy, nor is it for everyone. It is a journey that requires deep introspection, meditation, and selflessness. The signs of an enlightened master are not just about transcending suffering but about transforming one's personality, understanding the brain and mind as the central processors of reality, and recognizing the wholeness within us.