Enlightenment

Enlightenment refers to a state of deep knowledge or understanding, as if the truth behind all mystery has been revealed. It can have specific meanings in certain spiritual traditions, such as Buddhism or Hinduism, but it is generally understood to be the end stage or goal of personal spiritual development. Spiritual teacher Gangaji further describes enlightenment as an ongoing ebb and flow of “fulfillment, discoverable only by you. A state that is always evolving and reveals the truth of who you are.” Often described as inner peace and the ability to be fully present within the moment, enlightenment is a journey unique to each individual. Thích Nhất Hạnh notes, “Sit and become aware that you are there, alive. To be alive is already a miracle. And if you can touch that fact that you are alive, that is already enlightenment.”