Illumination

Spiritually:

Illumination often refers to a profound experience of enlightenment or awakening where an individual gains a deep understanding or insight into the nature of reality, self, or the divine. Here are some ways it is understood across different spiritual traditions:

Mysticism and Christianity: Illumination is often described as the second stage of the mystical path after purification, where the soul experiences a direct, personal revelation of God or divine truth. This can manifest as visions, ecstasy, or a deep sense of inner light or peace, leading to a transformation in one's spiritual life.

Buddhism: Here, illumination might be closely related to the concept of enlightenment or "satori" in Zen Buddhism. It involves the cessation of ignorance (avidya) and the realization of one's true nature, leading to liberation from the cycle of suffering (samsara). This enlightenment is not just intellectual but experiential, often described as an awakening to one's Buddha-nature.

Hinduism: In Advaita Vedanta, illumination can be seen as the realization of the non-duality of Atman (the individual self) and Brahman (the universal self or ultimate reality). This realization often comes after intense meditation or spiritual practice, leading to Moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Sufism (Islamic Mysticism): Illumination is a state where the mystic (Sufi) perceives the light of divine knowledge, leading to a union with the Divine. This is often described through metaphors of light, where one's heart or soul becomes illuminated by God's essence.

General Esoteric and New Age Thought: Illumination might be described as the activation or awakening of the "third eye" or pineal gland, leading to higher states of consciousness, clairvoyance, or psychic awareness. It's often seen as part of spiritual ascension or personal evolution towards a higher state of being.

In all these contexts, illumination involves a shift from ordinary perception to a DEEPER, often ineffable understanding or experience of reality, where the boundaries between the self and the universe, or the self and the divine, begin to dissolve. This experience can lead to lasting changes in one's life, behavior, and spiritual practice, emphasizing love, compassion, wisdom, and unity.