Mindfulness Quote by John Blofeld
““In East Asia generally, the notion of a Supreme Being, so essential to Western religions, is replaced by that of a Supreme State of Being , an impersonal perfection from which beings including man are separated only by delusion.””
About This Quote
The quote contrasts Western the focus on a personal deity with East Asian traditions that emphasize an impersonal, ultimate reality, suggesting human separation from this reality is illusory.
In simple terms: East Asian spirituality sees an impersonal ultimate reality, not a personal god.
Key Takeaway
Human perception of separation is delusion.
Themes
Spirituality
Philosophy
Cultural contrast
Metaphysics
Religious studies
Mood
Contemplative
Analytical
Reflective
Type
Philosophical
Comparative religious
Cultural observation
When to use this quote
- Comparing religious worldviews
- Teaching comparative religion
- Analyzing philosophical texts
- Discussing mysticism
- Exploring cultural perceptions of divinity
Key Concepts
Supreme State of Being
Delusion
Impersonal perfection
Western vs Eastern religious concepts
Practical Applications
- Academic curricula on world religions
- Interfaith dialogue materials
Questions to Reflect On
- How does the notion of delusion affect spiritual practice?
- What implications does an impersonal ultimate reality have for ethics?
![“Perhaps the most overpowering contrast [with the West] is the virtual absence in premodern China of the idea of a transcendent creator God who is distinct from Nature in a fundamental qualitative sense. The Chinese had notions of a supreme god in various guises (that is, ‘hypatotheism’), and also…” quote by Mark Elvin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/053/mark-elvin-51757_china_perhaps-the-most-overpowering-contrast-w_1625650.jpg)
![“A combination of fine tea, enchanting objects and soothing surroundings exerts a therapeutic effect by washing away the corrosive strains and stress of modern life. [... It] induces a mood that is spiritually refreshing [and produces] a genial state of mind.” quote by John Blofeld](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/de8/john-blofeld-96893_life_a-combination-of-fine-tea-enchanting-obj_2397307.jpg)
