Linked List / November 2023

The Observer is the Observed ➶

Computer, please explain Jiddu Krishnamurti’s statement: “The observer is the observed.”

Krishnamurti’s statement “The observer is the observed” is a profound insight into the nature of consciousness and identity. It suggests that the observer and the observed are not two separate things, but rather two aspects of the same reality.

In other words, the person who is observing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences is not separate from those thoughts, feelings, and experiences. They are all part of the same conscious field.

This realization can have a profound impact on our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. When we see that the observer is the observed, we can no longer blame our problems on external factors or other people. We must take responsibility for our own thoughts, feelings, and actions.

We also begin to see that there is no separation between us and the world around us. We are all interconnected and interdependent. This realization can lead to a greater sense of compassion and empathy for others.

Here is a simple analogy to help illustrate Krishnamurti’s point:

Imagine a lake. The surface of the lake is like the mind. The thoughts, feelings, and sensations that we experience are like the waves on the surface of the lake.

The observer is like the lake itself. It is the still, silent awareness beneath the waves.

When we are caught up in our thoughts and feelings, we are like someone who is only looking at the waves. We do not see the lake itself.

But when we step back and observe our thoughts and feelings with a sense of detachment, we are like someone who is looking at the waves from the shore. We see the waves for what they are: just passing phenomena.

And we also see the lake itself: the still, silent awareness beneath the waves.

This is what Krishnamurti means when he says “The observer is the observed.” When we observe our thoughts and feelings with detachment, we begin to see that we are not our thoughts and feelings. We are the still, silent awareness beneath them.

This realization can lead to a profound transformation of our consciousness. When we are no longer identified with our thoughts and feelings, we are free to experience the world directly, without the filter of our conditioned minds.

Here are some practical tips for practicing Krishnamurti’s teaching:

  • Take some time each day to sit quietly and observe your thoughts and feelings.
  • Don’t judge or criticize your thoughts and feelings. Just observe them with detachment.
  • Notice the space between your thoughts and feelings. This is the space of awareness.
  • Rest your attention in this space of awareness as much as possible.

Over time, you will begin to see that you are not your thoughts and feelings. You are the still, silent awareness beneath them. This realization can lead to a profound transformation of your consciousness and your life.

Thank you, computer.

✶ Sunday, 5 November 2023


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