What Does Enlightenment Actually Mean?

On this episode of “Buddhability Explained,” we discuss the Buddhist concept of enlightenment. When we think of the word “enlightenment” we imagine someone levitating or think we can only achieve it in the distant future.
But it’s actually a possibility that anyone can experience in the here and now.
For more, read Buddhist philosopher Daisaku Ikeda’s interview "Faith in Revolution": buddhability.o...
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Buddhability is an online publication where we talk about how Buddhism can make a positive impact in our lives with helpful tips and stories from the Buddhability community. Check out buddhability.org/ to learn more.

[@DKiley100]

Hi Cory, I enjoy your videos. My father first taught me how to meditate in 1967. After practicing for a number of years it completely flipped my world view. Here is a favorite story. Someone once asked the Buddha skeptically, “What have you gained through meditation?” The Buddha replied, “Nothing at all.” “Then, Blessed One, what good is it? “Let me tell you what I lost through meditation: sickness, anger, depression, insecurity, the burden of old age, the fear of death. That is the good of meditation, which leads to nirvana.”

[@elliotfong8794]

Superpowers to overcome our problems and achieve the best form

[@tyamada21]

A segment from 'Saved by the Light of the Buddha Within'... My new understandings of what many call 'God -The Holy Spirit' - resulting from some of the extraordinary ongoing after-effects relating to my NDE... Myoho-Renge-Kyo represents the identity of what some scientists are now referring to as the unified field of consciousnesses. In other words, it’s the essence of all existence and non-existence - the ultimate creative force behind planets, stars, nebulae, people, animals, trees, fish, birds, and all phenomena, manifest or latent. All matter and intelligence are simply waves or ripples manifesting to and from this core source. Consciousness (enlightenment) is itself the actual creator of everything that exists now, ever existed in the past, or will exist in the future - right down to the minutest particles of dust - each being an individual ripple or wave. The big difference between chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo and most other conventional prayers is that instead of depending on a ‘middleman’ to connect us to our state of inner enlightenment, we’re able to do it ourselves. That’s because chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo allows us to tap directly into our enlightened state by way of this self-produced sound vibration. ‘Who or What Is God?’ If we compare the concept of God being a separate entity that is forever watching down on us, to the teachings of Nichiren, it makes more sense to me that the true omnipotence, omniscience and omnipresence of what most people perceive to be God, is the fantastic state of enlightenment that exists within each of us. Some say that God is an entity that’s beyond physical matter - I think that the vast amount of information continuously being conveyed via electromagnetic waves in today’s world gives us proof of how an invisible state of God could indeed exist. For example, it’s now widely known that specific data relayed by way of electromagnetic waves has the potential to help bring about extraordinary and powerful effects - including an instant global awareness of something or a mass emotional reaction. It’s also common knowledge that these invisible waves can easily be used to detonate a bomb or to enable NASA to control the movements of a robot as far away as the Moon or Mars - none of which is possible without a receiver to decode the information that’s being transmitted. Without the receiver, the data would remain impotent. In a very similar way, we need to have our own ‘receiver’ switched on so that we can activate a clear and precise understanding of our own life, all other life and what everything else in existence is. Chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo each day helps us to achieve this because it allows us to reach the core of our enlightenment and keep it switched on. That’s because Myoho-Renge-Kyo represents the identity of what scientists now refer to as the unified field of consciousnesses. To break it down - Myoho represents the Law of manifestation and latency (Nature) and consists of two alternating states. For example, the state of Myo is where everything in life that’s not obvious to us exists - including our stored memories when we’re not thinking about them - our hidden potential and inner emotions whenever they’re dormant - our desires, our fears, our wisdom, happiness, karma - and more importantly, our enlightenment. The other state, ho, is where everything in Life exists whenever it becomes evident to us, such as when a thought pops up from within our memory - whenever we experience or express our emotions - or whenever a good or bad cause manifests as an effect from our karma. When anything becomes apparent, it merely means that it’s come out of the state of Myo (dormancy/latency) and into a state of ho (manifestation). It’s the difference between consciousness and unconsciousness, being awake or asleep, or knowing and not knowing. The second law - Renge - Ren meaning cause and ge meaning effect, governs and controls the functions of Myoho - these two laws of Myoho and Renge, not only function together simultaneously but also underlies all spiritual and physical existence. The final and third part of the tri-combination - Kyo, is the Law that allows Myoho to integrate with Renge - or vice versa. It’s the great, invisible thread of energy that fuses and connects all Life and matter - as well as the past, present and future. It’s also sometimes termed the Universal Law of Communication - perhaps it could even be compared with the string theory that many scientists now suspect exists. Just as the cells in our body, our thoughts, feelings and everything else is continually fluctuating within us - all that exists in the world around us and beyond is also in a constant state of flux - constantly controlled by these three fundamental laws. In fact, more things are going back and forth between the two states of Myo and ho in a single moment than it would ever be possible to calculate or describe. And it doesn’t matter how big or small, famous or trivial anything or anyone may appear to be, everything that’s ever existed in the past, exists now or will exist in the future, exists only because of the workings of the Laws ‘Myoho-Renge-Kyo’ - the basis of the four fundamental forces, and if they didn’t function, neither we nor anything else could go on existing. That’s because all forms of existence, including the seasons, day, night, birth, death and so on, are moving forward in an ongoing flow of continuation - rhythmically reverting back and forth between the two fundamental states of Myo and ho in absolute accordance with Renge - and by way of Kyo. Even stars are dying and being reborn under the workings of what the combination ‘Myoho-Renge-Kyo’ represents. Nam, or Namu - which mean the same thing, are vibrational passwords or keys that allow us to reach deep into our life and fuse with or become one with ‘Myoho-Renge-Kyo’. On a more personal level, nothing ever happens by chance or coincidence, it’s the causes that we’ve made in our past, or are presently making, that determine how these laws function uniquely in each of our lives - as well as the environment from moment to moment. By facing east, in harmony with the direction that the Earth is spinning, and chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo for a minimum of, let’s say, ten minutes daily to start with, any of us can experience actual proof of its positive effects in our lives - even if it only makes us feel good on the inside, there will be a definite positive effect. That’s because we’re able to pierce through the thickest layers of our karma and activate our inherent Buddha Nature (our enlightened state). By so doing, we’re then able to bring forth the wisdom and good fortune that we need to challenge, overcome and change our adverse circumstances - turn them into positive ones - or manifest and gain even greater fulfilment in our daily lives from our accumulated good karma. This also allows us to bring forth the wisdom that can free us from the ignorance and stupidity that’s preventing us from accepting and being proud of the person that we indeed are - regardless of our race, colour, gender or sexuality. We’re also able to see and understand our circumstances and the environment far more clearly, as well as attract and connect with any needed external beneficial forces and situations. As I’ve already mentioned, everything is subject to the law of Cause and Effect - the ‘actual-proof-strength’ resulting from chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo always depends on our determination, sincerity and dedication. For example, the levels of difference could be compared to making a sound on a piano, creating a melody, producing a great song, and so on. Something else that’s very important to always respect and acknowledge is that the Law (or if you prefer God) is in everyone and everything. NB: There are frightening and disturbing sounds, and there are tranquil and relaxing sounds. It’s the emotional result of any noise or sound that can trigger off a mood or even instantly change one. When chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo each day, we are producing a sound vibration that’s the password to our true inner-self - this soon becomes apparent when you start reassessing your views on various things - such as your fears and desires etc. The best way to get the desired result when chanting is not to view things conventionally - rather than reaching out to an external source, we need to reach into our own lives and bring our needs and desires to fruition from within - including the good fortune and strength to achieve any help that we may need. Chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo also reaches out externally and draws us towards, or draws towards us, what we need to make us happy from our environment. For example, it helps us to be in the right place at the right time - to make better choices and decisions and so forth. We need to think of it as a seed within us that we’re watering and bringing sunshine to for it to grow, blossom and bring forth fruit or flowers. It’s also important to understand that everything we need in life, including the answer to every question and the potential to achieve every dream, already exists within us.

[@elliotfong8794]

I love this video

[@lauranovak8407]

enJOYing buddhability, tnx guys!

[@niharikasial4441]

Wonderfully explained

[@elliotfong8794]

Long live Nichiren Buddhists

[@jethlee]

We are NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO ❤️👏

[@elliotfong8794]

Let's Spark The Joy With Sensei

[@MrJupiter65]

Wow! Fun, informative, and I feel better for knowing. Please make more!!!!! 🦁

[@elliotfong8794]

Who are those three thumbs down guys?!

[@mikekyzz11]

Great stuff! Very well made!!!!

[@chiptoothtech4937]

WONDERFUL VIDEO ABOUT NICHIREN BUDDHISM!!! ^_^!!

[@qamarmuhammad7064]

Great Video!👌

[@georgesmodliar2232]

After 3years I'm fine this video i need the

[@thekid3744]

You can also be enlightnend and have money, fancy cars, and a lot of instagram followers. By the way a lot of people in the public eye are enlightend. So saying that someone isnt enlightend because he strives for success which usually brings money is kind of ignorant.

[@elliotfong8794]

I love this video

[@muth7813]

You absolutely can be enlightened and have all those things! The message was that these materials alone don't have the power to bring forth compassion, courage and wisdom.

[@elliotfong8794]

Through Faith, I find Sgi and Friends Through SGI and Friends, we find Sensei Through Sensei, we find encouragements from the Lotus Sutra Through those encouragements, we find courage, wisdom, and compassion With those, we chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo And through chanting, we win peacefully To Sensei!!

[@TyDyck]

I see enlightment as more of a continuous process than a flipswitch epiphany or destination state. I feel like it is simply the curation of perspective and cultivation of experience and it is hilarious to see humanity play their self defined games and try to scoot along some sort of linear progression of development or awakening when in reality it is an everpresent truth we simply need to realize we’ve always had. There is no obtaining what we already have. If there is no line or definition between us and the cosmos that isn’t just a human abstraction then we are god as much as god is us and everything else. I don’t invoke that name religiously by way of modern human institution, for the record, only to say that we needn’t even seek external validation of our existence for love and all the rest live already within us. There is no purpose to follow but that which we create for ourselves and what might feel like the bottom dropping out for some I’d like to consider from the perspective of the ceiling, the sky, the heavens one might even say, lifting off into the infinite. In short, Just be yourself. Don’t forget to have fun and smile defiantly in this oh so serious world that can snuff your fire if you let it. And even then, so what if it has. You can relight your campfire, ya know. You’re not starting over, your new perspective has the benefit of experience and insight. Want to see a miracle? Forgive yourself. Love yourself. The reason, perhaps, that ‘love is the answer’ is so popular is that, I suspect, its one of the only things you get more of by giving it away. Be free

[@margaretek5350]

Awesome presentation! Thank you ❤️🧡💜

[@adrianoherrera2868]

Loved it, guys! Thanks for the video and learnings. ❤️🙌🏻

[@elliotfong8794]

I love you guys

[@dannyfeister7698]

Excellent Presentation!!!! Thank You 🙏

[@rhiro9064]

Such a creative and inspirational video. Wonderful.

[@elliotfong8794]

I agree to this video and all others

[@margaretek5350]

🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@elliotfong5061]

How does it give us the courage of a lion?

[@elliotfong8794]

I know it does but how do you feel like that

[@jethlee]

@@elliotfong8794 ♦️”The power of the Gohonzon can only be described as Myo - unfathomable. Benefit can absolutely be gained through faith in the gohonzon. Faith in the gohonzon ensures victory. There's no way that your prayers will go unanswered." He also said " The power of daimoku is colossal. It can transform a life imbued with painful karma into one that is like strolling in a beautiful garden, or like a pleasant dream"♦️ Daisaku Ikeda

[@georgesmodliar2232]

Really that's true I'm in with 48 bad people mentally drugs I'm transformed by myself

[@richardbond4496]

Title: "Radiant Essence: The Energy of Enlightenment" Intro: Embarking on a journey through realms unseen, This poem explores the energy that lies within. A glimpse into the enlightened souls' profound might, Their radiant essence, shining with divine light. Verse 1: Enlightened souls, their energy pure and bright, Resonating with cosmic harmony, an ethereal delight. Untouched by ego's burdens, they gracefully glow, A vibrant flow of love and wisdom they bestow. Verse 2: Their presence hums gently, a serene melody, Igniting souls' awakening, setting spirits free. In their aura, a magnetic pull is felt, A sacred space where hearts and minds are compelled. Verse 3: Ordinary souls, entangled in life's chaotic web, Their energy clouded, like a foggy neb. Desires, fears, illusions taint their vibrant core, Their vibrations fluctuate, tossed by life's lore. Verse 4: But the enlightened ones, a beacon in the night, Uplifting, inspiring, casting shadows in their light. Their energy, a symphony of celestial tones, Guiding seekers' hearts to their spiritual thrones. Verse 5: Harmonizing with the universe's grand design, Their energy flows, like rivers of divine. Clarity, truth, and profound stillness they bring, Awakening dormant sparks, like the first breath of spring. Verse 6: In their presence, a tranquil serenity thrives, A gateway to the soul, where true essence arrives. A gentle hum, whispering ancient truths untold, Their energy, a balm for spirits weary and cold. Verse 7: Radiating brilliance, like a radiant sun, Enlightened beings illuminate for everyone. Their vibrations touch the deepest layers of our being, Reminding us of our own divinity, forever freeing. Verse 8: In the energy of enlightenment, a sacred dance, Between the seen and unseen, a cosmic trance. A symphony of souls, united in their quest, To awaken the world, and let love manifest. Verse 9: For within each heart, a spark of light resides, Yearning to be kindled, to illuminate and guide. Radiant essence, the energy of the divine, A reminder of the truth, that we are all intertwined. Verse 10: So let us embrace the wisdom they bestow, Nurture the flame within, and let it grow. In our own journey, may we seek the divine, And let our radiant essence forever shine. Verse 11: For in the energy of enlightenment, we find, A resonance that unites the human and the divine. A reminder that we hold the power to ignite, The world with love and wisdom, shining ever so bright. Verse 12: Radiant essence, a beacon in the night, Guiding us towards truth, with its celestial light. Embracing the energy, we transcend the mundane, And awaken the divine, within our very name. Verse 13: So, let us honor the energy of enlightenment's call, Embrace our true essence, standing tall. For in the radiant essence that lies within, We find our purpose, our truth, where new beginnings begin. Verse 14: The enlightened ones, divine conduits they are, Connecting the material realm to realms afar. Through their energy, heaven's touch is revealed, Within their presence, the sacred is unsealed. Verse 15: The impact they have on the planet and its plight, A ripple of transformation, spreading far and wide. Awakening dormant souls, igniting the spark, Guiding humanity on a path that's not dark. Verse 16: Even the fallen beings, lost in their despair, Encounter the enlightened, finding solace there. Their energy pierces through the darkest of night, Offering redemption, a chance to set things right. Verse 17: The demons, lurking behind the masks of human guise, Shudder in the presence of the enlightened ones' eyes. Their malevolence crumbles, their power diminished, As the light of truth exposes the darkness they've finished. Verse 18: The energy of the enlightened, a catalyst of change, Unveiling the illusions, dismantling the strange. They inspire leaders to shed their corrupted skin, Guiding them towards righteousness, breaking free from sin. Verse 19: Through their energy, the world is set ablaze, A transformation, a shift in collective gaze. Hearts open wide, compassion floods every soul, Love and unity reign, making brokenness whole. Verse 20: In the energy of enlightenment, a new era is born, Where divine wisdom and love are forever sworn. The radiant essence of these beings divine, Leads us to a world where heaven and earth align. Summary: "Radiant Essence: The Energy of Enlightenment" is a poetic exploration of the transformative power of enlightened energy. The poem highlights the stark contrast between the pure, vibrant energy of enlightened souls and the clouded, fluctuating energy of ordinary beings. The enlightened ones act as divine doorways, connecting the material realm to the kingdom of heaven, allowing people to experience the divine in their presence. Within their energy, there is a harmonious resonance with the cosmic symphony, radiating love, wisdom, and profound stillness. Their presence inspires awakening and liberation, offering a tranquil serenity and whispering ancient truths. Their radiance illuminates the path to spiritual thrones, guiding seekers towards their true essence. The poem emphasizes the profound impact of enlightened energy on the planet and its inhabitants. Even fallen beings and the demons behind human masks tremble in their presence, finding redemption and transformation. The enlightened ones inspire leaders to shed corruption and guide them towards righteousness. Through their energy, the world undergoes a powerful transformation, with hearts opening wide, compassion flooding souls, and love and unity prevailing. The radiant essence of the enlightened beings heralds a new era, where heaven and earth align in perfect harmony. "Radiant Essence: The Energy of Enlightenment" invites readers to embrace their own inner radiance, seek the divine within, and join the journey of self-realization. It is a reminder of the transformative potential of enlightened energy and its ability to ignite a profound shift in the world.

[@rosalieyutani1109]

Great video, thank you so much for sharing this beautiful wisdom 🧡🧘🏼‍♀️🙏.

[@mobiustrip1400]

This usually comes with age when you start seeing people dying around you. It's your own mortality that "wakes you up" It's nothing special, it's just maturing, but I suppose young people can achieve it if they apply their minds.

[@apostatepaul]

Gosh it’s so simple! I don’t think so. Just chanting a sentence? Nah.

[@titasings5786]

Thank you I love this and will share it!!!!!!!

[@elliotfong8794]

Please do

[@sollasolla4505]

This is not an enlightenment

[@elliotfong8794]

This need more views and mote people to do this..

[@elliotfong8794]

Nam myoho renge kyo is THE correct teaching!!!!

[@hyunjunna7037]

'Enlightenment' is an fully understanding of existence's imperfection

[@elliotfong8794]

Which we can become perfect over time

[@A_Muzik]

There is nothing superhero like about courage, wisdom, compassion, etc. These are just regular human attributes.

[@taanbiswas1]

They are, but do we all actually show these attributes all the time? Buddha was a mortal human being just like you and I but he made these regular human attributes his state of life each moment he lived. Thats what achieving “superpower”/Buddhahood is about.

[@elliotfong8794]

Exactly!

[@elliotfong8794]

Sometimes people might not have known that they had these powers they can unlock. So to them, it's like a superpower

[@jethlee]

Well if you are going to think of it in a shallow perspective these are just regular human attributes. But what if you’re currently facing a major obstacle in your life? Its not easy to summon courage, wisdom, hope etc. If you became very negative in your attitude, it will take over you. That’s why Nichiren Daishonin gave us the Gohonzon of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo for us to be able to summon these as we consider as our “super powers” as regular human beings 👏❤️😊

[@elliotfong8794]

They are actual powers because we don't have the confidence tp show them so yeah