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Whatever thought grips the mind at the time of death is…

“Whatever thought grips the mind at the time of death is the one which will propel it and decide for it the nature of its future birth. Thus if one wants to attain god after death, one has to think of him steadfastly... This is not as simple as it sounds, for at the time of death the mind…” quote by Stephen Mitchell
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“Whatever thought grips the mind at the time of death is the one which will propel it and decide for it the nature of its future birth. Thus if one wants to attain god after death, one has to think of him steadfastly... This is not as simple as it sounds, for at the time of death the mind automatically flies to the thought of an object (i.e. money, love) which has possessed it during its sojourn in the world. Thus one must think of god constantly.”

Stephen Mitchell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The final thought at death shapes the soul's next incarnation; focusing on the divine ensures a blessed rebirth.

In simple terms: Death thoughts determine future rebirth; think of God to secure a good afterlife.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate constant divine focus.

Themes

spirituality afterlife mindfulness

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • deathbed reflections
  • daily meditation
  • ritual prayer
  • ethical living

Key Concepts

karma reincarnation intentionality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you train your mind to recall the divine in everyday life?
  • What practices help override habitual worldly thoughts?
A Different Perspective

If one cannot maintain constant divine thought, worldly attachments may dominate.

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