In the process of burning out these confusions, we…
“In the process of burning out these confusions, we discover enlightenment. If the process were otherwise, the awakened state of mind would be a product dependent upon cause and effect and therefore liable to dissolution. Anything which is created must, sooner or later, die. If enlightenment were created in such a way, there would always be a possibility of ego reasserting itself, causing a return to the confused state. Enlightenment is permanent because we have not produced it; we have merely discovered it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Enlightenment is not a created state but a discovered reality, thus it is permanent and beyond ego’s reach.
In simple terms: Enlightenment is found, not made.
Seek truth beyond personal constructs.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- meditation
- psychotherapy
- spiritual retreat
- daily mindfulness practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions about self limit your insight?
- How can you recognize discovery versus creation?
If one treats enlightenment as a goal, ego may still dominate.