Illumined Mind
“Illumined Mind” refers to a state of heightened awareness, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment, where one can perceive truth and reality with clarity, often achieved through practices like meditation and reflection. This concept is prominent in spiritual and philosophical traditions, particularly in the teachings of Sri Aurobindo, where it is described as a transitional phase to spiritual consciousness that operates through spiritual light and inner vision rather than purely through logic. It is also the title of a popular meditation book, “The Mind Illuminated,” which integrates Buddhist wisdom and brain science.
Characteristics of an “Illumined Mind”
- Spiritual light and vision: It is not a mind of “higher thought” but one that receives spiritual light and functions through a direct inner vision.
- Clarity and discernment: It is a purified and enlightened state of consciousness capable of perceiving truth and reality with clarity, transcending ignorance.
- Integration of spiritual and mental: It can illuminate the thought-mind with spiritual vision and bring spiritual light and energy into the heart and emotions.
- Enlightenment and bliss: It is associated with a profound sense of inner peace, connection to a greater source, and bliss, which transforms one’s entire outlook on life.
Cultural and philosophical context
- Sri Aurobindo: In his philosophy, the “illumined mind” is a transitional stage between the purely mental and a fully spiritual consciousness.
- Hinduism: It represents a state of purified consciousness where one can perceive truth with clarity, as seen in the wisdom of figures like Muni Vasishtha.
- Buddhism: The “illuminated mind” is central to meditation practice, referring to an awakened state marked by clarity and insight that liberates from suffering.
- The Mind Illuminated: This is the title of a specific, widely-used meditation guide that details a path to greater mindfulness and a more illuminated state of mind.
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://www.wisdomlib.org/concept/illumined-mind
[2] https://sriaurobindostudies.wordpress.com/2023/06/16/illumined-mind/
[3] https://incarnateword.in/compilations/the-hierarchy-of-minds-the-mind-levels/the-illumined-mind
[4] https://www.amazon.com/Mind-Illuminated-Meditation-Integrating-Mindfulness/dp/1501156985
[6] https://www.facebook.com/groups/140860899682666/posts/2248822565553145/
[7] https://www.optimumresults.co.nz/Resources/mL0A05/6001024/The%20Mind%20Illuminated.pdf