"When we live in time, we spend our days seeking the meaning of life. In contrast, when we are present, we enjoy a life saturated with meaning."
- Michael Brown, The Presence Process.
Being 'present' is talked about a lot by various spiritual teachers. Keep in mind it's more of a non-doing than a doing that takes effort. Michael Brown's "The Presence Process" is one way to take a 10-week self-led training in becoming more familiar with being present. I recommend this book.
October 2025.
I attended a seminar in Sydney a month or so ago. One of the main talks at the seminar was about J. Krishnamurti, and 10 or so themes in his teachings. The talk was given by someone who was familiar with JK since the 1970s and had attended some talks in person. I thought the seminar was great, and the themes really motivated me to take a deeper look into JK and his teachings and 'approach'.
Several weeks later, I was in a position where I had some free time to do a deep dive and really immerse myself in the teachings of Krishnamurti. I purchased some talks (from 1969, February in the US), and this set had about 4 talks, each 90 mins. I also found a massive amount of talks, dialogues, and the like in podcasts and on YT. To their credit, the Foundation has kept excellent recordings, and much of it is freely available.
I was inspired by some of the first talks. Topics ranged from society, man's condition, the mind, observation, conditioning, and much more. JK's style of speaking and delivery was top-notch. A perfect speaker in a way. Yes, he had been trained well by the TS and the upper echelons of society. And it came out in the way he spoke and direct inquiry in the present moment with the audience. I loved how he made people do 'the work' on the spot, and really forced people to observe and enquire in the audience.
His commentary on self-observation is perfect. Nobody explains self-observation better. The problem is that he doesn't give and structured approach on how to do it. The description and reasons for doing it are given perfectly. The approach is way too vague to be useful to anybody listening.
Over the following days, as I continued, however, I became more and more disillusioned with JK's approach (or non-approach and non-structure as he would have it). Issues and cracks appeared in the teachings he delivered. Sometimes he would overgeneralise and severely look down on ALL and every religious tradition, method, system, etc.. labelling monks as fools or absent-minded simpletons lost in their rituals and routines. Formal practice was derided. Zen and yoga, all just tricks. This didn't bother me too much, as there was a grain of truth in it.
However, the more I heard, the worse it became. Krishnamurti seemed to be completely mixing levels of experience.. asking why certain spiritual methods hadn't fixed society and its disorder and chaos.. as if any philosophy, method, or system, including his own, ever could. Sometimes he gave vague pointers to having a more mindful approach, being more engaged in the moment with one's experience and environment- yet without any tools or training to do so-- all structured training, tools, methods, etc. were "tricks" based on conditioning.
Yet Krishnamurti himself repeated the same ideas almost at each talk! He repeatedly said "the description is not the described", "the observer is the observed", etc., etc. he gave the same enquiries at different talks-- all of this repetition apparently wasn't static or conditioning, but what excepted it? He told people to deny all authority, including the speaker, and yet for 40 years he held talks with crowds, many of whom regarded him as their guru or teacher. Groups followed him for decades, dependent on more talks.
Talk after talk, 1970s, 1980s etc.. people just weren't "getting it", or any closer than they were from talks in the 1960s. As there was no training given, or structure, people were almost expected to magically gain insight or the experiences he kept offering people. They didn't happen. And people are still as confused about JK's teachings as they were during his time.
I had to lay down the talks and the books.. my deep dive was pretty much over in a week or so. However, there's some parts of Krishnamurti's teachings that are great, and have inspired so many modern day teachers. People like Eckhart Tolle, Barry Long, Osho, Ouspensky, and many more all seem to have picked up parts of Krishnamurti's philosophy or delivery. But the limitations present, such as having no system, no way, no approach, nothing.. seems to have been peculiar to Krishnamurti himself. It appears that JK somehow managed to gain some insight along the way, or randomly discovered the whole observer illusion, no-self deal, but couldn't impart that insight in any effective way that would allow his students to (ironically) depart from their very dependence that JK was daily trying to stop.
On the topic of "conditioning", which is one of JK's central themes, it is always explained as a negative thing. JK relates it directly to the past (or it IS the past), and anything coming from conditioning is therefore dead, past, mechanical in nature, and something to overcome of transcend. But using Krishnamurti's own inquiry-- Is this actually and always true? Is ALL conditioning bad? Well, I'd have to say, no, not all conditioning is a bad thing. Being conditioned to jump out of the way of an oncoming car seems to be good conditioning. Being conditioned to get up each morning at the same time, or go to bed early seems to be a healthy conditioning for maintaining one's body. And "deconditioning" too, is sometimes needed. Deconditioning in the form of affirming the truth of something vs what we've been conditioned to believe can be helpful at times. For example, having a phobia about spiders, or some other psychological trigger, can benefit from deconditioning in terms of seeing the fearful object in a new light, or conditioning oneself to accept difficult people in life. These are just examples. JK would deny that there's any utility in this, in favour of a spontaneous, fresh, and present experience. And he's correct for certain situations, but of course, "one size fits all" doesn't work for the majority of aspirants. People need conditioning on occasion, likewise with structure, training, discipline, and practice. Making a sweeping removal of all of these concepts and activities ensures the teachings remain untenable and purely a philosophy to think about, rather than anything of practical use.
Some decent critiques I found on the internet are below. They're not entirely true, but there's a grain of truth within each, so I post them below.
Still, however, Krishnamurti is a GOOD teacher/place to do a deep dive, if you have time. You can learn (or unlearn) a lot if you immerse yourself in his teachings. However, they're a stopping place, or rather, a resting place to use to deepen one's inquiries and awareness of one's current state. Nobody stops with JK's teachings alone, however, and despite his protestations against systems and processes, training IS really needed to get a better picture of where he's standing and talking from. Krishnamurti was fortunate (if we're to trust his own admissions) in that he didn't need to awaken from a sleep as deep as most mere mortals find themselves in. In fact, he mentions a few times that he just didn't have an ego functioning from a young age. In another chat, he mentioned, "I've been at this for a long time, since age 15". Bear this in mind when listening to a teacher who doesn't have the same experience as most people when it comes to dealing with the survival instincts of the ego and working to transcend the false self altogether.
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Did Gurdjieff have any personal contact with Krishnamurti?
There is no concrete evidence to suggest that G.I. Gurdjieff and Jiddu Krishnamurti ever had a personal meeting or direct, sustained contact, despite both being prominent spiritual figures in the early to mid-20th century.
They operated in different, though sometimes overlapping, spiritual circles and geographical locations.
Gurdjieff focused on his "Fourth Way" teachings, which often involved groups and intense practical work, primarily in France in his later years.
Krishnamurti, after dissolving the Order of the Star in 1929, stressed that "Truth is a pathless land" and discouraged followers, institutions, or organized systems, which is contrary to the Gurdjieff Work's structure.
However, some of Gurdjieff's students, such as P.D. Ouspensky, were contemporaries of Krishnamurti and it's noted that Krishnamurti was reportedly attending meetings held by Ouspensky in Hollywood, California, in the 1930s, establishing relations with people in the Gurdjieff Work. This shows an indirect connection through their respective followers.
How about Osho (Rajneesh) who spoke of JK during some talks?
Osho held a complex and often contradictory view of Jiddu Krishnamurti, which he expressed as a blend of deep admiration and sharp critique. He considered Krishnamurti to be one of the most significant and intelligent spiritual figures of the 20th century, yet ultimately a failure as a spiritual "master."
Here are the key aspects of Osho's take on Krishnamurti:
1. The Deep Affinity and Oneness (The Praise)
Osho often spoke of Krishnamurti as an "enlightened being" and expressed a profound, non-physical connection with him.
"Oneness": Osho stated that he felt such a deep affinity with Krishnamurti that "to talk of connection is not right; connection is possible only between two separate things. I feel almost a oneness with him."
A "Pure Fire": He described Krishnamurti as having the purest philosophical and intellectual understanding of the truth, saying, "If you hear him, if you allow him, if you open your doors to him, he is pure fire. He will burn all that is rubbish in you."
Intellectual Genius: Osho called him the "most intelligent man of this century," and an "intellectual genius."
2. The Critique: "A Philosopher, Not a Master" (The Failure)
The central point of Osho's criticism was that Krishnamurti's approach was too intellectual, bypassing the human element needed for transformation.
"Failed to Touch the Heart": Osho's main point of difference was that "Krishnamurti failed because he could not touch the human heart; he could only reach the human head." He argued that the heart needs a different approach.
No Devices or Methods: Krishnamurti did not provide any practical techniques or devices for people to transform what they intellectually understood, which Osho believed was necessary for modern people to experience the truth. Osho said, "he was not creating the right climate, the right milieu in which it could become a seed."
Intellectual Preparation: Osho saw Krishnamurti's role as a preparatory one, saying, "Krishnamurti has prepared the ground for me. He has prepared people intellectually for me; now it is my work to take those people deeper than intellect, to the heart; and deeper than the heart, to the being."
The Problem with "No Guru": While Krishnamurti was vehemently against gurus and following, Osho argued that this stance itself was given by a "guru." He noted that people who claimed to follow Krishnamurti's command not to follow anyone were, in fact, following him.
3. The Personal Relationship
Despite their differing views and methods, Osho claimed a playful and deep connection with a man he never physically met.
Osho said he had a "tremendous communion that needs no language, that need not be of physical presence."
He also mentioned that they would "criticize each other," and that he enjoyed "joking with the old man, provoking the old man" by, for example, sending his own followers in their distinctive red robes to sit in the front row of Krishnamurti's talks.
what are other criticisms of krishnamurti by other spiritual teachers?
Jiddu Krishnamurti, due to his radical rejection of all spiritual authority, gurus, and organized belief systems, often stood in sharp contrast to other prominent spiritual teachers. The most notable criticisms came from those closest to his philosophical space.
Here are the main criticisms of J. Krishnamurti by other spiritual figures:
1. U.G. Krishnamurti (A Fellow Radical and Critic)
Uppaluri Gopala Krishnamurti (U.G.), who was not related to Jiddu but had an association with him, became perhaps his most scathing critic. U.G.'s perspective was entirely anti-spiritual, asserting that there is no such thing as enlightenment.
"He Has Seen the Sugar Cube, But Never Tasted It": This is U.G.'s most famous critique. It implies that Jiddu Krishnamurti's vast, intelligent discourses on truth and freedom were merely intellectual concepts, not based on an authentic, biological transformation (which U.G. claimed to have experienced, calling it "The Calamity").
The "Holy Business": U.G. viewed Jiddu Krishnamurti, despite his anti-guru stance, as part of the "holy business," selling a concept of liberation that did not exist. For U.G., the talk of ending suffering and psychological freedom was an illusion created by thought itself.
2. Osho (The Philosopher vs. The Master)
As detailed previously, Osho's view was the most nuanced but was ultimately a criticism of his method, not his wisdom.
Failure to Touch the Heart: Osho criticized Krishnamurti for being too intellectual, stating he "failed because he could not touch the human heart; he could only reach the human head."
Lack of Practical Tools: Osho believed that while Krishnamurti's words were true, they were not delivered with the "devices" (meditation techniques and catharsis) necessary for the modern individual to actually experience the transformation. Osho saw his own role as taking the intellectually prepared "Krishnamurti people" into the heart and being.
3. Implications from Advaita/Gurus (Ramana Maharshi's Way)
While Ramana Maharshi never directly criticized Krishnamurti, the different conclusions drawn from their similar core premises often lead to an implied critique by their respective followers (and Osho):
Focus on Action vs. Pure Being: Krishnamurti was intensely concerned with the state of the world's suffering and felt compelled to travel and speak widely to help humanity. The traditional Advaita Vedanta and the path of Ramana Maharshi (Self-Inquiry) often prioritize abiding in the "Real Self," where the external world's suffering is seen as an expression of the unreal, and the jnani (one with knowledge) is not moved to change it.
The Implied Critique: The concern from this camp (as articulated by Osho) is that Krishnamurti's tireless talking was still a form of action based on suffering (sympathy/guilt), suggesting a subtle incompleteness in his state, whereas a true sage (like Ramana Maharshi) simply is—and that being itself is the transformative power.
Further points on some differences between JK and RM:
While both J. Krishnamurti and Ramana Maharshi pointed to a state of liberation that is our true nature, their approaches and emphasis contained key differences:
| Teacher | Primary Method | Description |
| Ramana Maharshi | Self-Enquiry (Atma-Vichara) | The core practice is the constant inward query, "Who am I?" The aim is to trace the "I-thought" back to its source, the Self (Atman/Brahman), leading to the dissolution of the ego-mind and realization of one's inherent being as the ever-present Reality, which is peace and bliss. |
| J. Krishnamurti | Choiceless Awareness / Observation without the Observer | The practice involves total awareness of "what is" (thoughts, feelings, actions, external reality) without judgment, comparison, or choice. The key insight is that the observer (the I, the censor, the ego) is the observed; when this is deeply seen, the division ceases, and a state of intelligence and freedom from conditioning arises. |
J. Krishnamurti famously asserted that "truth is a pathless land" and strongly rejected all forms of authority, systems, methods, gurus, and spiritual practices (sadhana), including his own teachings being turned into a system. He emphasized the immediacy of seeing the truth, which no effort or time-bound practice could bring about. The revolution must be radical, total, and now, arising from direct insight.
Ramana Maharshi was the embodiment of the Guru tradition (although he never positioned himself as a 'guru' in the traditional sense and often pointed out that the real guru was the 'inner guru'. He often gave his teaching through silence (mauna) and maintained this was the highest form of his teaching. While he held that the Self is ever-present and liberation is our natural state (not something to be attained), he acknowledged that effort (abhyasa) in the form of Self-Enquiry is necessary to remove the obstruction of the mind (ego/ignorance). His teaching is closely aligned with the classical Advaita Vedanta tradition.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings are rooted in the ancient Indian tradition of Advaita Vedanta (non-dualism). Key terms like Self, Brahman, Jnani (liberated one), Jivanmukti (liberation while alive), and the importance of stillness (summa iru - just be) are central to his expression. Noting that this was also due to the time and place where the teaching was delivered, and that many of his questioners were coming from a traditional Hindu spiritual background.
J. Krishnamurti intentionally avoided traditional spiritual or Sanskrit terminology, believing it was burdened with conditioning and beliefs. He used modern, psychological language focused on concepts like conditioning, image-making, the observer and the observed, choiceless awareness, intelligence, and freedom from the known to directly address the modern, often non-religious, mind (especially for Western audiences).
Ramana Maharshi's teaching largely focused on the inward realization of the Self, stating that once the ego is gone, the actions of the liberated one (Jnani) occur spontaneously and faultlessly, regardless of their outward appearance (passive or active). He lived primarily in one location, Arunachala, radiating his presence.
J. Krishnamurti showed a strong concern for the suffering and conflict in the world, believing that fundamental social change could only arise through radical psychological change in the individual. His choiceless awareness was a means to end inner conflict, which he saw as the root of all outer conflict. He traveled and lectured globally, actively engaging with the world's problems.
Though their methods and language appear distinct, Ramana Maharshi himself noted that effortless and choiceless awareness is our real nature and aligned with his teaching. Whether they were talking about the same thing is a bit unclear.
4. Criticism of Personal Life and Organizational Hypocrisy
A different category of criticism focuses on the disconnect between Krishnamurti's radical teaching of non-authority, freedom, and non-attachment, and certain aspects of his life.
Maintaining a Structure of Support: Despite dissolving the Order of the Star and denouncing all organizations, Krishnamurti's work was supported by foundations, schools, and wealthy individuals, which required a functional, institutional structure that contradicted his rejection of authority.
Personal Relationships: His long-term, secret love affair with Rosalind Williams, including three aborted pregnancies, became public after her daughter wrote a book, Lives in the Shadow with Krishnamurti. Critics seized upon this, arguing that his private life—marked by attachment, secrecy, and dependency—was hypocritical to his teaching of "love without attachment" and freedom from psychological conditioning.
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#krishnamurti
#advaita
#awakening
#truth
#meditation
#insight
Sitting in Silence: A Course in Miracles and Zen Shikantaza
At first glance, A Course in Miracles and Zen Buddhism seem worlds apart. One speaks of God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit; the other rests in silence without reference to deity. Yet if we look closely at the later Workbook lessons in ACIM and compare them with Zen’s practice of shikantaza—“just sitting”—the resemblance is striking.
In the early Workbook lessons, ACIM often gives structured thoughts to repeat, gently retraining the mind to see differently. But as the lessons progress, words fall away. The instructions shift toward stillness: “Simply be quiet.” “Do nothing.” “Wait in silence.” The practice becomes less about repeating a phrase and more about resting in a Presence already here.
This is very close to the heart of Zen’s just sitting. In shikantaza, you take your seat and release all effort to manipulate the mind. Thoughts, sensations, and feelings come and go, but nothing needs to be grasped or pushed away. There is no mantra, no visualization, no striving—only the bare act of being present.
Both practices invite the same inner gesture: stop trying, let go, rest in what already is.
The difference lies mostly in interpretation. ACIM frames this stillness as entering God’s presence, a merging into love. Zen frames it as encountering reality as it is, ordinary and complete. But experientially, the silence feels nearly identical: a spaciousness beyond words, where striving drops away and a deeper ground of awareness reveals itself.
Whether we call it “God’s peace” or “just this,” both paths converge in the same doorway: sitting quietly, doing nothing, and remembering the completeness of now.
#acim
#workbook
#zen
#shikantaza
#justsitting
Found this quote by Sri Aurobindo. This quote explains exactly the stance of "A Course In Miracles" with the function of the Holy Spirit. Here it is called "Supermind" or "Supramental Light" by Sri Autobindo.
#ACIM
#SriAurobindo
Mittagong, NSW – July 21, 2025
Today's Divine Entitlement: Embracing the Miracle Within
As the sun rises today, we turn our minds to a truly empowering concept from A Course in Miracles: Lesson 77 – "I am entitled to miracles."
This isn't about magical thinking or trying to manipulate reality. This lesson reminds us that miracles aren't extraordinary events that defy natural law; they are the natural law of our true being. Miracles are the effortless corrections that occur when we align with our true Identity and our inherent oneness with God. They flow naturally from who we are.
The profound beauty of this lesson lies in its simplicity. We don't need to consciously control or direct miracles. They don't require immense effort or complicated rituals. Instead, our primary role is to recognize the need for a miracle when a situation arises that seems to defy peace, love, or resolution.
When faced with confusion, conflict, or any form of distress, simply pause and recall: "I am entitled to miracles." This isn't a plea; it's a statement of truth about your divine inheritance. By acknowledging the need and remembering your entitlement, you effortlessly usher in the miracle. It's a shift in perception, an opening of the mind to the loving solution that is always present.
It's an effortless process because it’s not about doing something to make a miracle happen, but about allowing it to happen by remembering who you truly are. Your very oneness with God ensures that miracles are not just possible, but inevitable.
Let's carry this profound truth with us today. When you encounter anything that seems less than perfect, simply whisper to yourself: "I am entitled to miracles." And watch as the gentle, loving correction unfolds.
💞🌞㈰☼
#ACIM #Lesson77 #Miracles #DivineEntitlement #Oneness #InnerPeace #EffortlessGrace
ACIM Lesson 76, "I am under no laws but God's" offers a profound liberation. We often feel bound by countless rules – societal norms, scientific principles, even our own self-imposed limitations. But what if these are merely illusions, governing a reality that isn't truly real?
This lesson invites us to recognize that the ONLY laws that truly govern existence are God's. These divine laws are not about restriction, but about creation, love, and perfect order. They govern the true reality, a realm of unwavering peace, abundance, and interconnectedness.
When we mistakenly believe we are subject to the fluctuating, often harsh laws of the illusory world, we experience fear, scarcity, and conflict. However, by acknowledging that we are under no laws but God's, we begin to dismantle these false beliefs.
Embracing this truth isn't anarchy; it's ultimate freedom. It's the freedom to experience the inherent peace and joy that is our divine inheritance. It's the realization that true security comes not from controlling the external world, but from aligning with the perfect, loving laws of our Creator.
To truly integrate this lesson, we are encouraged to sit in silence and listen. In those quiet moments, we open ourselves to the Voice for God – that inner guidance that speaks only of truth, peace, and our eternal connection to love. This Voice will gently direct us, showing us how these divine laws operate in our lives, freeing us from the self-imposed prisons of fear and limitation.
Let's remember today: We are not victims of chaos or chance. We are governed by perfect love, guided by wisdom from within. And in that recognition lies our deepest peace.
💛💢
#ACIM #Lesson76 #DivineLaws #Freedom #Peace #SpiritualJourney #GodsLaws #InnerGuidance #VoiceForGod
Contemplative Comparison: ACIM Reviews & Advaita Vedanta's Path to Realization
For students of A Course in Miracles, the Review sections are vital. They're not just about rote memorisation; they're an invitation to deepen our understanding and experience. This process bears a striking resemblance to the ancient Advaita Vedanta tradition's three-fold path to self-realization: Sravana, Manana, and Nididhyasana (commonly used in Shankara-based traditions).
Sravana (Listening/Hearing): In Advaita, this is the initial exposure to the sacred texts and teachings from a qualified teacher. In ACIM's Review Section 1, we are asked to review the previously learned ideas, often doing so slowly and thoughtfully. This is our "hearing" of the truth, often for the first time in a way that truly resonates.
Manana (Reflection/Contemplation): After hearing, Advaita emphasizes deep reflection and intellectual assimilation to remove doubts. Similarly, ACIM's Review encourages us to "think about" each idea, allowing it to "sink in" and challenging any resistance or confusion that may arise. It's about letting the mind wrestle with the concept until clarity emerges and intellectual conviction takes root.
Nididhyasana (Meditation/Abiding): This is the experiential phase in Advaita, where one meditates deeply on the truths, transcending intellectual understanding to direct realization. ACIM mirrors this perfectly by instructing us to "close your eyes and practice" the ideas, allowing them to settle into our experience. It's not enough to simply understand; we are invited to be with the truth, to abide in it, allowing it to transform our perception and ultimately, our reality.
Both traditions, though culturally distinct, point to the same fundamental process: a systematic journey from initial exposure to profound, liberating realization. The ACIM Review, like Sravana, Manana, and Nididhyasana, is designed to move us beyond mere intellectual assent to an experience of the truth, guiding us home to the peace that is our natural inheritance.
📖👂⛅
Unveiling Peace: diving deep with ACIM lesson 47
Lesson 47 of A Course in Miracles ("God is the strength in which I trust.") offers a powerful meditation instruction: to go "down, or below the surface of the mind." This isn't just a casual suggestion; it's a profound pointer that echoes through several previous lessons.
Reflect on earlier practices where we were encouraged to go inward and downward. This consistent direction can be extremely useful when starting out and requiring a physical location for attention or abiding, but more importantly, it's about shifting our focus from the noisy, superficial thoughts of the ego to the deeper, quieter truth within. The "surface of the mind" is where our anxieties, judgments, and illusions churn. By consciously choosing to go "below" it, we are actively disengaging from these distractions and seeking the stillness that lies beneath.
Lesson 47 solidifies this approach, guiding us to trust in a strength far beyond our own egoic capabilities. This strength, which is God, is found not in outward striving, but in this inward descent. It's in that deeper space, beyond the mind's surface chatter, that we truly connect with the unwavering peace and power that is our inherent right. So, as you practice today, remember: the path to trust and to God is often found by simply going down.
ACIM FIP lesson reference page:
https://acim.org/acim/lesson-47/god-is-the-strength-in-which-i-trust/en/s/449
A Course in Miracles - Lesson 43 - "God is my Source. I cannot see apart from Him."
This is really an exercise in learning to see and perceive 'the world' through the eyes of concept-free awareness or "God", as directed by the "Holy Spirit" who is the voice of our perfect self.
The effects of this lesson for the day can be quite unexpected and liberating. If done correctly, one may see all that one perceives through the eyes of perfect awareness and therefore love. What was seen as fearful and hated through the eyes of the ego (the individual, conditioned self) can be re-interpreted and purified by recalling that all seeing actually takes place via the one true Source of knowing and registering only (creation). Everything is seen as lovable and perfect.
Some key points with this lesson:
- It's recommended to perform the longer meditation sessions as early as possible and as late as possible (5 mins+ is good), with one in between. This is so that there's a good amount of carry-over during the day in terms of being able to draw on positive and like thoughts in relation to the idea.
- You'll be surprised at how easy it is to 'receive' constructive thoughts related to the idea whenever you pause today to recall the main idea for the day. These thoughts then act as pointers to direct one's experience in ACTUALLY seeing all through the eyes of divinity and thus experiencing reality as it is.
- A red flag would be any person or situation that triggers stress throughout the day, thus implying that we've reverted to the ego's way of perceiving things (in fantasy). In order to return to real vision of how things actually are, we're asked to use the idea and re-cognise that God is our Source (or origin). We can't actually see (or know) anything apart from this pure, perfect conscious awareness. The ego is undercut, and pure perception can thus arise once more.
- This is another example of 'forgiveness' in action, as how the Course defines it. We're forgiving the illusions that we've inadvertently made, in favour of reality.
Have fun with this powerful lesson in purifying perception today.
💫💕🙏
1. Today’s idea extends the idea for yesterday from the perceiver to the perceived. ²You are holy because your mind is part of God’s. ³And because you are holy, your sight must be holy as well. ⁴“Sinless” means without sin. ⁵You cannot be without sin a little. ⁶You are sinless or not. ⁷If your mind is part of God’s you must be sinless, or a part of His Mind would be sinful. ⁸Your sight is related to His Holiness, not to your ego, and therefore not to your body.
Some key points here:
- Mind is recognised as being a part of God or the Absolute. It is being used here in a similar way to consciousness or awareness in the Advaita approach. Mind, in itself, is sinless because it is the individual or ego that acrues sin and merit. Mind or consciousness has nowhere to store or acrue good/bad/merit/demerit/karma etc., and as such is like the impersonal witness.
- If "you" are mind, then it follows that "you" as your natural state and true nature, are actually sinless, regardless of how confused "you" are right now in terms of identifying with the false self / ego.
- Sight, (or awareness) is actually related to one's true nature as just consciousness, and isn't originating from the body at all. Yes, the body contains the instruments of sight, being the eyes, however, sight extends to more than just physical sight, and includes mental images and awareness itself.. as such, it is a characteristic of mind or consciousness.
- Following on from these points, the exercise for today is one of recognising again and again one's true Self, and the fact that the holiness or purity of this Self shines out and envelopes all apparent objects in one's experience.. as such they are enveloped in holiness and purity, being an expression of just this pure mind or conscious awareness.
#ACIM
#nonduality
#consciousness
#mind
Unveiling the True Self: ACIM Lesson 35 & the Path of Self-Enquiry
"My mind is part of God's. I am holy." This powerful affirmation from A Course in Miracles (Lesson 35) strikes a profound chord with the ancient wisdom of Advaita Vedanta, particularly the practice of self-enquiry. This lesson (35) is actually one of the closest exercises in self-enquiry that ACIM includes in the entire Workbook/Course.
Both paths (ACIM & Advaita), though seemingly different in their language and origin, converge on a fundamental truth: our suffering stems from misidentifying with a false self – the ego, the body, the ever-changing thoughts and perceptions. ACIM Lesson 35 guides us to remember our inherent 'holiness', our inseparable connection to God (or Ultimate Reality). It's a call to look beyond the ephemeral and recognize our true, eternal nature. It directs us to look both at the image we've made and use in our daily dualistic experience, and then contrast that to our timeless, eternal, unchanging natural state of Being.
Similarly, self-enquiry, as taught by sages like Ramana Maharshi, and also in some of the more direct schools on inquiry such as Zen Buddhism, encourages us to relentlessly ask "Who am I?" by turning our attention inward and disidentifying from all that we are not (the mind, the emotions, the roles we play); we gradually peel back the layers of illusion. What remains is the pure, unconditioned Self – the "I AM" that is ever-present and truly holy.
Both ACIM and Advaita offer a powerful antidote to the ego's incessant need to define itself through external validation and fleeting experiences. This is what the Course terms "image making". It also notes here that images can't see or have vision in and of themselves. Both paths invite us to sort through the clutter of the false self, to let go of the imagined image we project, and to rest in the unwavering truth of our divine essence. In this remembering, lies true peace and liberation from the ego-made self that we take ourselves to be.
📑🔖🕮
Workbook lesson official text:
(https://acim.org/acim/en/s/437 | W-35)
"I can escape from the world I see by giving up attack thoughts."
If you're new to A Course in Miracles, Lesson 23 might sound a little aggressive- "Giving up attack thoughts" can conjure images of wrestling with your mind, forcefully suppressing negativity. But let's reframe this powerful lesson because its true essence is far from a battle.
Instead, consider it a profound invitation to release our vice-like grip on the idea of attack – both attacking others and feeling attacked ourselves. It’s about recognising that our perception of a hostile world is, in fact, a reflection of our own internal state.
Think about it: when we're consumed by attack thoughts – be they judgments, resentments, fears, or anxieties about what others might do to us – we are constantly engaged in a mental war. We're bracing for impact, strategizing defenses, and reliving past grievances. This isn't just exhausting; it literally creates the world we see. We perceive threats because we are thinking threateningly.
Lesson 23 offers a radical alternative: What if the escape from this perceived battlefield isn't about fleeing, but about disarming ourselves? What if the "world I see" isn't an external reality to be fought, but an internal projection that can be transformed?
By "giving up attack thoughts," we aren't denying reality; we're simply choosing to stop fueling the fire. It’s about:
So, for today, let's approach Lesson 23 not as a struggle, but as a sigh of relief. Imagine releasing all the tension you hold around defending yourself, proving yourself, or judging others. Imagine simply letting go of the mental weapons you've been carrying.
When we truly give up attack thoughts, the world we see begins to shift. It's not that external circumstances magically disappear (although sometimes they do!) but our experience of them transforms. The perceived threats diminish, the need for defense dissolves, and we find ourselves resting in a state of acceptance and peace.
This isn't just escaping from the world; it's escaping into a truer, more peaceful experience of it. It's recognizing that the battlefield was always in our minds, and the disarmament begins with us.
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Note that the beginning lessons of ACIM aim at undoing our conditioned, automatic functioning related to how we have learned to see ourselves as individuals living in a world of separation.
This lesson aims at undoing one aspect of that web of apparent separation, in which we find ourselves.
Lesson 19 in A Course in Miracles delivers a profound truth: "I am not alone in experiencing the effects of my thoughts." At first glance, this may seem unsettling. Are our thoughts not private? Do they not belong solely to us? ACIM gently, yet firmly, invites us to reconsider.
This lesson isn't suggesting we're constantly broadcasting our inner monologue for everyone to hear (though wouldn't that be interesting at times!). Instead, it points to a deeper, more fundamental interconnectedness of minds. The Course teaches that ultimately, all minds are joined. We are, in essence, one mind, experiencing a fragmented illusion of separation.
Think about it on a more ordinary, everyday level. Haven't you walked into a room and immediately picked up on the "vibe"? You might not know the specifics, but you can feel the tension, the joy, the sadness. Someone walks in radiating anger, and you instinctively brace yourself. Another person enters with a calm, peaceful demeanor, and you feel a sense of ease. This isn't magic; it's our inherent ability to perceive the effects of others' thoughts and emotional states, often communicated through body language, facial expressions, and even subtle energetic shifts.
When we're caught in a negative thought pattern – worry, anger, judgment – we literally create an energy around us. We might not say a word, but those around us can pick up on it. Our thoughts, though seemingly internal, have an outward ripple effect. They influence our interactions, our reactions, and ultimately, the environment we inhabit.
Conversely, when our thoughts are focused on love, peace, and forgiveness, the same principle applies. We become a calming presence, a source of light for others. Imagine a room full of people consumed by fear, and one person enters radiating unwavering peace. That peace, originating in their own thoughts, can have a tangible impact on the collective atmosphere.
Lesson 19 is a powerful reminder of our responsibility, not just to ourselves, but to the whole. If our thoughts truly affect others, then cultivating a mind filled with love, forgiveness, and peace becomes less of a personal endeavor and more of a universal contribution. It's an invitation to recognize that we are not isolated islands, but intricate threads in a vast, interconnected tapestry of consciousness.
So, the next time you find yourself dwelling on negative thoughts, pause. Remember Lesson 19. You are not alone in experiencing the effects of your thoughts, and neither are those around you. What kind of ripple effect are you creating today and at this moment?
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I thought this was a good summary regarding those who are drawn to studying and working through "A Course In Miracles", as a spiritual path or curriculum.
I'd add the the Course is very structured, and also suits those who enjoy structure and progressive learning, while allowing for unstructured 'quiet time' and reflection throughout.
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"People who are drawn to studying A Course in Miracles often share certain characteristics and motivations. While the Course emphasizes that it is just one path among many and is not for everyone, those who find it resonates with them tend to be:
Seeking Deeper Spiritual Meaning: They often feel a dissatisfaction with conventional religious or materialistic explanations of life and are looking for a more profound understanding of reality, purpose, and their connection to something greater.
Open-Minded and Willing to Question Beliefs: The Course challenges many commonly held beliefs about the world, the self, and God. Individuals who are willing to examine their assumptions and consider alternative perspectives are more likely to engage with its teachings.
Experiencing Inner Turmoil or Dissatisfaction: People grappling with feelings of guilt, fear, anxiety, or a lack of inner peace may find solace and a path toward healing in the Course's emphasis on forgiveness and the illusory nature of the ego.
Drawn to a Non-Dualistic Perspective: The Course teaches a non-dualistic metaphysics, suggesting that separation is an illusion and that all of creation is ultimately one. Those who intuitively resonate with this idea may find the Course appealing.
Intellectually Curious: While not strictly necessary, the Course presents complex metaphysical and psychological concepts. Individuals who enjoy intellectual exploration and are comfortable with abstract ideas may find it engaging.
Ready for Self-Reflection and Inner Work: Studying the Course requires a commitment to introspection and applying its principles to one's own thoughts, feelings, and relationships. Those willing to engage in this inner work are more likely to benefit.
Not Necessarily Tied to Traditional Religious Frameworks: While the Course uses Christian terminology, it reinterprets these terms in a non-traditional way. People from various religious backgrounds, or no religious background at all, can find value in its teachings if they are open to its unique language.
Facing Significant Life Challenges: Individuals going through crises, transitions, or periods of intense personal growth may be more receptive to the Course's message of hope and transformation.
It's important to note that:
Ultimately, the "right" person for studying A Course in Miracles is someone who feels a deep inner calling to explore its teachings and is willing to commit to the process of self-inquiry and forgiveness it offers. As the Course itself states, the training is "highly individualized," and each student's journey will be unique."
Nisargadatta Maharaj, a renowned teacher of Advaita Vedanta, emphasized the importance of turning within and focusing on the "I am" as a fundamental practice for self-realization. He advised:
"Turn within. 'I am' you know. Be with it all the time you can spare, until you revert to it spontaneously. There is no simpler and easier way." 179
This practice involves:
Concentrating on the sense of "I am," which is the basic fact of one's existence.
Giving undivided attention to oneself, as the center of one's personal universe 5.
Rejecting all that does not necessarily go with the basic fact: "I am" 3.
Nisargadatta explained that the "I am" is a thought, while awareness is not a thought2. He suggested that by repeatedly focusing on "I am," one can establish the mind firmly in this thought-feeling 3. This practice helps to:
Turn the mind away from external distractions
Realize that everything starts with the ego, and when the ego is dropped, everything drops 4
Move beyond the limitations of individual identity
The ultimate goal is to reach a state where even the "I am" dissolves, leaving only pure awareness 27. Nisargadatta stated, "Ultimately even the 'I am' will have to go, for you need not keep asserting what is obvious." 6
