What does it mean...?

[PureX]

To achieve a new, more holistic cognitive grasp on our existence.

 

[Vinayaka]

What does it mean in spiritual terms to "Awaken"?

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It means different things to different people, and has several definitions, and degrees. For example, sometimes a friend will share some information, and a person might say, "Wow, you certainly awakened me on that topic."

 

[Hermit Philosopher]

Sounds to me like you're describing a spontaneous mystical experience.

While this is a very abrupt means to awaken, I'm not sure this is the only way to do so. I think for some it may be gradual...for many over several lifetimes.

Dear SalixIncendium

I suspect that happens too, yes!

I am limited to describing my own experiences of course and find myself now wondering what it would have been like, had they been less “brutal”. I haven’t a clue...

Perhaps some are in need of rude awakenings, whiles others are wise enough to be gently aroused.


Humbly
Hermit

 

[blü 2]

What does it mean in spiritual terms to "Awaken"?

As far as I can tell, it works something like this ─

Salesman: You see, safety isn't important any more if you buy / believe in / embrace the Superzip.

John: By golly, you're right!

Salesman: Ah, you're awakened!

 

[Clara Tea]

What does it mean in spiritual terms to "Awaken"?

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Other posters wrote "blind but now I see" or "accepted God."

It isn't enough to merely know God's teachings, one must atone. For example, the Mafia is highly religious, but they feel that they will be forgiven for any sin (murder, theft, etc)., and they believe that they can ask for forgiveness prior to committing a crime.

Atonement is necessary to get into heaven.

If not, then heaven would be filled with those who did not atone. It would be a hellish place.

So, a big part of spiritual awakening is atonement (swearing that you will never do wrong again and you are sorry for any sin that you have already done). Heaven is for the good spirits, not the bad ones.

 

[RestlessSoul]

Other posters wrote "blind but now I see" or "accepted God."

It isn't enough to merely know God's teachings, one must atone. For example, the Mafia is highly religious, but they feel that they will be forgiven for any sin (murder, theft, etc)., and they believe that they can ask for forgiveness prior to committing a crime.

Atonement is necessary to get into heaven.

If not, then heaven would be filled with those who did not atone. It would be a hellish place.

So, a big part of spiritual awakening is atonement (swearing that you will never do wrong again and you are sorry for any sin that you have already done). Heaven is for the good spirits, not the bad ones.

Faith without works is dead, in other words?

I do agree that there is little point being enlightened or awakened, and then carrying on life in the same way as before. Trying to atone for the harm we have done others is an admirable undertaking.

 

[RestlessSoul]

Wouldn't we first have to define Asleep?