Ask Osho!

Do Taoists believe in sudden or gradual enlightenment?

Synthesized from Source definition

"Enlightenment is not an achievement but the natural state that emerges when the craving to be special dissolves; simply live authentically, and the suchness of life will reveal itself."

Core Insight:
According to Osho, Taoists like Lao Tzu neither affirm sudden nor gradual enlightenment—they dismiss the whole pursuit. Enlightenment isn’t an achievement but your natural, ordinary state when egoic craving to be special drops. Simply live naturally—eat when hungry, sleep when sleepy—be content as you are, and the suchness of life reveals itself. For Lao Tzu, 'enlightenment' isn’t even a meaningful term.
They don’t choose sudden or gradual—just be ordinary and content, and what you seek is already here.
Why this matters practically
- Stops ego-driven spiritual ambition and the anxiety of becoming someone.
- Encourages simple, natural living—responding to life directly.
- Invites immediate contentment instead of chasing exotic experiences.
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