In Hindu philosophy and other eastern teachings, enlightenment is the ultimate goal of spiritual transformation. It’s the realization that our true Self is pure spirit, created from the infinite field of intelligence that gives rise to every creation in the universe. At the moment of enlightenment, we realize that we’re not isolated and separate, but completely connected to everyone and everything. This is the birth of unity consciousness.

Those who have attained enlightenment lose all sense of fear and worry. They’re no longer bothered by mundane matters and see the incredible potential available in each moment. They understand the way life works and the design of the infinite field that orchestrates the flow of energy, information and the countless intricate processes unfolding in every second. Recognizing that they’re an inseparable part of spirit or God, enlightened beings are lighthearted and joyful.

Buddha having just attained enlightenment, while sitting under the Bodhi Tree

True enlightenment is different from an intellectual understanding that all is one, or even the occasional glimpse of the interconnectedness of the universe. Achieving perpetual unity consciousness is a monumental transformation of every dimension of awareness that can require energy, time, and courage.

Although the enlightened state of the seers and prophets, including Jesus Christ and Buddha, may seem far out of reach for most of us, we always have the potential to expand our awareness of our true spiritual nature and the inseparability of all things. The journey toward enlightenment in itself offers innumerable gifts. As we become aware of the underlying spirit that connects all things, we realize that even the smallest events have great meaning. We also begin to see more clearly how our thoughts and intentions ripple out into the cosmos and manifest in physical form.

In his work The Spontaneous Fulfillment of Desire, Deepak Chopra explains the path of spiritual growth and enlightenment in great detail. He provides practical guidance about how you can deepen your experience of your divine Self and connect to its wisdom. Another way to learn about the infinite field of intelligence and how you can harness its creative potential to realize your own dreams is at the SynchroDestiny program offered by the Chopra Center for Wellbeing. This transformational seminar led by Deepak Chopra will take you to a new level of understanding and self-growth.