Can trance-like states be higher or lower than the conscious state?
Synthesized from Source
definition
"Trance-like states may feel profound, but they are merely forms of unconsciousness; true awakening arises only through alert awareness and witnessing."
According to Osho, trance-like states are always below consciousness—forms of unconsciousness that may feel relaxing or overwhelming but are not superconscious and do not lead to enlightenment. Even Ramakrishna’s trances weren’t awakening; he awakened only through witnessing. Trance can mimic spirituality, but true growth requires alert awareness, not possession, excitement, or crowd-induced phenomena.
Why this matters practically
- Avoid mistaking intense feelings or visions for progress; prioritize cultivating witnessing awareness.
- Be discerning about mediums, rituals, and crowd trances that can mislead.
- Use relaxing states as rest, then return to conscious presence for real transformation.
- Be discerning about mediums, rituals, and crowd trances that can mislead.
- Use relaxing states as rest, then return to conscious presence for real transformation.
AI Confidence Score: 98%
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