What Happens to Enlightened People After They Achieve Enlightenment?
Enlightenment is the state of 'what is'. It encompasses the human body with its emotions and the brain with its thoughts. Achieving enlightenment does not stop human body functions, but it certainly can diminish the 'dream-based' thought patterns created by the ego. Emotions and thoughts, while present in the understanding of enlightenment, no longer control the person; they exist in a context that allows for conscious and mindful expression.
Understanding the States of Human Consciousness
Enlightened beings exist beyond the three primary states of human consciousness:
Jagrat - the waking state Svapna - the dream state Sushupti - the deep sleep stateTuriya, the fourth state, represents transcendence and pure consciousness. It is a state realized through the awareness of the soul. Turiya is not a state; it is the true nature of the enlightened being. Transcending into turiya from turiya is a cycle of awareness and experience where the mind is reduced to mere witnessing. In this state, all thoughts and emotional patterns disappear, and the being operates with an unencumbered mind.
Emotional Experience in Enlightenment
Enlightened individuals do experience emotions, but these emotions are pure, unfiltered, and not rooted in the ego. While their primary focus is on the well-being of others, they are still sentient beings who can feel and empathize with the world around them. However, these emotions are not controlling; they are a natural part of the experience, useful tools rather than dominant forces.
Consider the emotional response to the state of the world. For an enlightened person, feelings towards the suffering and brutality of humanity are genuine, but they are not invasive or all-consuming, as they are observed and managed. They are aware of these emotions, but they do not let them dictate their actions, instead focusing on the greater good and empathy.
Emotions are necessary for empathy and compassion, which are crucial for ascension. Emotional sensitivity towards others is an admirable trait, even if it means enduring certain levels of pain or sadness. This is a natural part of the journey towards higher consciousness and understanding.
Balancing Emotions in Post-Enlightenment Life
Self-realized individuals are aware of their emotions, and while they can transcend them, they are not dismissive of them. Emotions are the seat of the solar plexus or the third chakra, and they play a crucial role in the human experience. To fully appreciate and utilize emotions, one must observe them without being controlled by their intensity or frequency. Using emotions as tools, rather than letting them control actions, allows for mindful and informed decision-making.
When you are self-realized, emotions are a part of the body. They are valuable, but they should not dominate the mind. Emotional experiences occur in the body, and their seat is the solar plexus or the third chakra. A self-realized person can transcend emotions, but doing so doesn't mean ignoring them. It means acknowledging them and making an informed decision with the brain, not just the mind. This approach helps in maintaining balance and utilizing emotions for positive outcomes.
Conclusion
Enlightened people do experience emotions, but these emotions are managed with a balance of awareness and consciousness. While they may still feel sadness, empathy, and compassion, these experiences are part of their journey towards higher consciousness. The key is to observe these emotions without being overwhelmed by them. Emotions are an integral part of the human experience, and in the context of enlightenment, they are tools for personal growth and benevolence.