The Final Barrier to Spiritual Enlightenment
Avoiding the trap spiritual lunacy and denying the divine ego
As creatures graced with consciousness, it is our innate proclivity to assume roles within this grand stage called life. This predilection resonates deeply with Carl Jung’s theories on individuation — individuals are drawn to individuality through discrimination and repression.
Jung also taught that each person has an ego — a localised sense of self — which attaches itself to various personas throughout our journey in life. These personas are like masks worn by actors in this our cosmic theatre — allowing us to navigate through society with purpose and direction — allowing us to relate and communicate with others.
But what happens when this inherent drive for identity veers into treacherous territory? What transpires when the ego latches onto spiritual ideas and concepts that attacks its own sense of reality? In traversing through vast realms seeking divine enlightenment, there is danger lurking within….
Behold: The character devoid of any discernible character! A mirage masquerading as perfection! An alluring concept nestled deep within our collective consciousness — tantalizing with its promises while concealing pitfalls aplenty.
It starts innocently enough — we delve into profound religious texts written centuries ago by prophets who claimed insight into universal truths beyond mortal comprehension. We absorb their teachings eagerly; but somewhere along the way, something subtle shifts inside us.
We begin mistaking these sacred insights for tangible realities rather than subjective interpretations passed down over generations. We internalize these lofty ideals and strive to become paragons of enlightenment. Alas, in this pursuit for ethereal glory, a trap is set before us.
I speak not from mere conjecture — wise souls have journeyed through these realms. Nietzsche warned that:
“He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster.”
For when we cling too tightly to grandiose ideals — without understanding their complexities — we can easily lose touch with our own humanity. Our imperfections lie at the heart of authentic spirituality; they are the raw materials through which genuine transformation takes place.
The ancients bestowed upon us tales cloaking deep truths within seemingly simple narratives. Consider Icarus, with his waxen wings soaring ever higher toward heavenly heights before tumbling back into earthly abyss. Consider Narcissus, infatuated only by his own ephemeral beauty — the embodiment of self-absorption seeking eternal adulation….
These parables expose the perils of these all-consuming characters that consume us, and the character of no-character is the most dangerous character of all.
We must confront the uncomfortable truth that enlightenment cannot be reached by dodging life’s difficulties or retreating into realms devoid of earthly engagement. In the words of Jiddu Krishnamurti:
“It is no measure of health to be well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society.”
Thus, dear reader, I implore you to embrace your character with open arms but also discernment. For in embracing the beauty of our flawed humanity, we dance upon a precipice where true transcendence resides — a delicate balance between intangible ideals and grounded realities.
Remember the wisdom imparted by Zen teaching:
“Before enlightenment, chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood, carry water.”
In these deceptively simple lines lie profound insight — a reminder that true growth requires us not to transcend mundane tasks, but rather to imbue them with newfound awareness.
Sincerely,
Jobe
