Insight usually refers to acquiring a clear vision of something that was previously unclear or inaccessible to our perception. This concept of insight can be applied to any subject in which we seek a deeper and better understanding. In our inner journey, insight enables us to bring into sight that which is hidden inside, thereby fostering greater self-understanding.
As we grow in insight, our focus turns inward, aided by a calm mind as outlined in the Bhagavad-gita (06.20-23). We begin to perceive our inner world more clearly, gradually gaining an understanding of both our subtle body and our spiritual self. This process reveals a clearer picture of two things: who we are essentially as eternal parts of the all-attractive divinity; and who we have become presently under the influence of our inner impurities.
Significantly, spiritual insight is not just static, but also dynamic. It doesn’t just provide us with a sense of the things existing in our inner space: for example, the soul and the mind with its conditionings. It also grants us a dynamic vision, enabling us to recognize and confront inner hostile forces that may undermine or sabotage us. We learn to catch ourselves before our impurities catch us. This internal awareness helps us prevent lapses and relapses, or at least minimize their impact. Insight also serves to strengthen our connection and reconnection with our spiritual core: the soul and the Whole.
How can we gain insight? One way is vigilant and vigorous introspection. Another swifter and more sustainable way is through purification achieved by the practice of yoga, especially bhakti-yoga that links us with the all-pure Divine, Krishna. Whereas introspection aims to discover what lies within us, purification endeavors to uncover the core of our being, cleansing away all that obscures it. Through a dynamic combination of introspection and purification, we can arrive at a higher level of self-understanding that culminates in perceiving the self in its full glory as a pure spiritual being, a precious part of the all-loving supreme person, Krishna. That insightful perception ultimately leads to boundless inner joy and culminates in a state of unending loving fulfillment.
Summary:
Insight means to bring into sight what is inside: to realize and relish the soul in its full glory beyond the impurities that presently obscure that glory.
Think it over:
- What does insight mean generically and specifically in terms of our inner growth?
- How is insight both static and dynamic?
- What does such spiritual insight culminate in?
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06.20: In the stage of perfection called trance, or samadhi, one’s mind is completely restrained from material mental activities by practice of yoga. This perfection is characterized by one’s ability to see the Self by the pure mind and to relish and rejoice in the Self.
Audio explanation of the article is here: https://gitadaily.substack.com/p/insight-into-inside
To know more about this verse, please click on the image
Good insight into the nature of isnsight. The distinction between purification vs insight especially helpful.
Thanks, Athena; happy to be of service.
insight is agreat quality,and a few achieved it.