Have you ever heard someone describe another person as “enlightened” and wondered what that really means? We tend to associate it with traits like kindness, love, and insightfulness, but how do we know for sure?
As someone who has been on a spiritual path for most of my life, I’ve had the opportunity to witness firsthand the transformative power of spiritual practices. Through my experiences, I’ve come to identify some of the most common qualities that people tend to attain as they become more spiritually enlightened.
It’s important to note that enlightenment is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Everyone’s spiritual journey is different, and some people may be further along on their path than others. Additionally, these qualities are not exclusive to one gender or the other. Men and women can both possess these traits.
So, what are some of the most prominent qualities of an enlightened person? While this list is by no means exhaustive, I believe it captures some of the most essential characteristics.
They Are Genuinely Happy And Content
The individual who has attained enlightenment is characterized by an unwavering sense of happiness and joy. They possess a naturally cheerful disposition, and are eager to share their positive energy with those around them.
Moreover, an enlightened person maintains an optimistic outlook towards life, firmly believing that all challenges can be overcome. While the resolution to a problem may not always be ideal, they remain confident in their ability to find peace with the outcome.
They Rarely Complain
An enlightened person possesses a profound sense of patience and understanding that arises from their awareness of the role that ignorance plays in our suffering. They recognize that the journey towards enlightenment is fraught with difficulties, and as such, they refrain from judging others for their mistakes.
By appreciating the impact of ignorance on our lives, an enlightened person adopts an empathetic and compassionate approach towards others. Rather than reacting with frustration or anger, they are able to maintain a sense of calm and understanding, even in the face of challenges or setbacks. This ability to remain patient and empathetic towards others is a hallmark of the enlightened individual.
They Have Good Leadership Skills
An enlightened person possesses exceptional leadership qualities, driven by their understanding of the nature of suffering and their desire to help others find freedom from it.
Unlike traditional leaders who rely on control and authority to influence others, an enlightened person leads by example. Their actions and demeanor inspire others to follow in their footsteps, as they are compelled by the enlightened individual’s values and principles.
People are drawn to the enlightened person because of their innate qualities and the profound impact that they have on others. They strive to emulate these qualities in their own lives, leading to a positive ripple effect that benefits those around them. In this way, the enlightened person serves as a beacon of light, illuminating the path towards enlightenment for all those who choose to follow.
They Look After Their Health
An enlightened person recognizes the essential role that physical, mental, and emotional well-being plays in their spiritual growth. Consequently, they prioritize their health by adopting a mindful approach towards their mind, body, and spirit.
Enlightened individuals possess a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between physical and mental health. They don’t rely blindly on others for their well-being, but instead, actively seek out information and resources to make informed decisions about their health.
This mindfulness extends to the nutrients and substances they consume. Enlightened individuals are aware of the impact that these elements have on their overall well-being and take care to make choices that promote their health. By prioritizing their health, the enlightened person maintains the harmony between their mind, body, and spirit, allowing them to continue on their spiritual journey.
They Don’t Seek Validation From Others
An enlightened person is characterized by their humility. They have a deep understanding of their place in the universe, which enables them to find peace within themselves, without requiring validation from others.
Due to this understanding, they have nothing to prove to anyone, including themselves. This lack of ego allows them to be kind, gentle, and open to everyone they encounter.
Their humble nature enables them to approach life with an open mind, accepting new perspectives and experiences without judgment. As a result, they are highly receptive to the wisdom of others and are willing to learn from anyone, regardless of their status or background. The enlightened person’s humility serves as a reminder that true spiritual growth requires the shedding of the ego, enabling us to embrace the world with compassion and grace.
They Look Peaceful
One of the defining qualities of an enlightened individual is their profound sense of peace and serenity. This stems from the fact that they have freed themselves from the burden of fear and other unwholesome emotions.
Having recognized that the human experience extends beyond the realm of physical existence, an enlightened person is no longer plagued by a fear of the unknown. In addition, they have come to understand that true freedom from suffering is not derived from material possessions, but from within oneself. This knowledge allows them to live their lives with a sense of calm and ease, unencumbered by worries or anxieties.
They Are Emotionally Stable
One of the defining qualities of an enlightened person is their remarkable emotional stability. This is because they have transcended the need for validation of their existence through the ego.
Since an enlightened person has liberated themselves from the ego, they are not susceptible to emotional hurt. Without an ego to be wounded, they are free from the pain that comes from external validation or criticism.
Furthermore, an enlightened person approaches the world with understanding and compassion, even towards those who have not yet progressed as far along the spiritual path. This prevents them from succumbing to anger or frustration, and allows them to remain centered in the face of adversity.
They Have Good Hearts
An enlightened individual exudes an unparalleled sense of love, kindness, and compassion. Firstly, an enlightened person genuinely cares about others, irrespective of whether or not they reciprocate the sentiment. This sincere concern for others is at the core of their being, and guides all their interactions with the world.
Secondly, an enlightened person recognizes that other individuals are a source of spiritual nourishment that they require to continue growing. This understanding allows them to remain spiritually open to everyone, maintaining a deep appreciation for the unique gifts and perspectives that each individual brings into their life.
Final Thoughts
While the list of qualities of an enlightened person is not exhaustive, the ones we’ve explored are among the most significant. By examining these qualities, we gain a clearer vision of the path that lies ahead in our spiritual journey.
It’s evident that enlightened individuals lead rich, fulfilling lives, achieved through a combination of daily meditation practice, a willingness to let go of old views, and a commitment to helping others find peace. While the journey towards enlightenment requires effort and dedication, the rewards are immeasurable. By embracing these qualities, we too can strive towards a more enlightened state, enriching our lives and the lives of those around us.