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The concept of enlightenment has fascinated spiritual seekers for millennia. One enlightened individual, Ramakrishna Paramahansa, explored various paths to God, including Christianity, Islam, and Jainism, and concluded that all are valid. While some might argue that such a view is only possible from a place of enlightenment, others believe that Ramakrishna’s assertion holds truth for everyone.
An informant suggests that enlightenment is available in an instant, though lifetimes of unseen work may be required to realize it. It is not something that can be acquired through effort but rather an inherent state that is recognized. This perspective challenges the notion that enlightenment is a distant goal achieved only through rigorous practice and discipline.
Some testimonies indicate that we are born enlightened, and that what is enlightened neither dies nor is born. This raises questions about the nature of existence and our true selves. If enlightenment is our natural state, then why do we experience suffering and illusion?
It’s been said that all paths are valid because enlightened individuals understand a secret. While all paths may lead to the same destination, not all paths are suitable for every individual.
Furthermore, an ancient text details an encounter between Ramakrishna Paramahansa and Telang Swami, a true Siddha. Ramakrishna, after having a meal prepared, fed an immense quantity of rice pudding to Telang Swami. Later, Ramakrishna called Telang Swami selfish for not sharing his knowledge. As a result, Ramakrishna developed throat cancer and died, serving as a lesson not to insult Shiva. This account emphasizes the importance of respecting spiritual masters and the potential consequences of disrespect.
The story reveals the intricacies of the guru-disciple relationship, which may be difficult for outsiders to comprehend. During Ramakrishna’s visit to Benaras, he saw heaps of gold, not literal gold, but the “gold of minds filled with the power of discrimination.” He recognized Telang Swami as an incarnation of Shiva, but criticized him for being unwilling to share his knowledge.
After returning home, Ramakrishna grew restless and sought to learn about Tantra. Despite his achievements in other spiritual practices, he felt drawn to this path. This led to the demonstration of how Telang Swami could influence Ramakrishna’s mind from a distance, ultimately leading him to pursue Tantra.
The path to enlightenment is multifaceted, with varying perspectives on its accessibility and nature. Whether it is an instant realization or the culmination of lifetimes of work, the journey towards enlightenment remains a central pursuit for many seeking spiritual truth.
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