From Krishnamurti’s perspective, what is the fundamental nature of consciousness?

Jiddu Krishnamurti was an Indian philosopher, speaker, and writer known for his teachings on psychological revolution, the nature of the mind, meditation, human relationships, and how to bring about positive societal change. He was born on May 11, 1895, in Madanapalle, India, and passed away on February 17, 1986. Krishnamurti’s early life was marked by his association with the Theosophical Society and the proclamation by its leaders that he was the World Teacher or Maitreya. However, he later dissolved the Order of the Star in the East and distanced himself from any messianic claims.

Jiddu Krishnamurti’s concept of consciousness is deeply philosophical and spiritual, diverging significantly from Western materialistic interpretations. His teachings, which spanned the 20th century, emphasized the understanding of the mind and consciousness as the key to fundamental transformation and freedom. To explore Krishnamurti’s view on consciousness, we must delve into several core aspects of his philosophy: the nature of thought, the process of conditioning, the observer-observed relationship, and the potential for liberation from the self.

The Nature of Thought

Krishnamurti posited that thought is limited because it is always based on past experiences and knowledge. He argued that thought is a response of memory, which includes knowledge and past experiences. Since our psychological experiences are shaped by this past knowledge, our thoughts are inherently limited and conditioned. For Krishnamurti, consciousness is not just a repository of these memories and experiences but is actively shaped by them. He suggested that to understand the true nature of consciousness, one must transcend thought.

The Process of Conditioning

A central theme in Krishnamurti’s teachings is the process of psychological conditioning. He believed that our consciousness is conditioned by society, culture, religion, and personal experiences. This conditioning leads to a fragmented perception of reality, where there is a division between the self and the other, leading to conflict both internally and externally. Krishnamurti held that awareness of this conditioning is crucial for understanding consciousness. By observing our thoughts, feelings, and reactions without judgment or interference, we can see how conditioning shapes our perception.

The Observer-Observed Relationship

Krishnamurti introduced a revolutionary concept regarding the observer and the observed. He stated that the division between the thinker (observer) and thought (observed) is artificial and that in reality, they are one. This insight suggests that when one observes their thoughts without the filter of conditioning, there’s a realization that the separation between oneself and their thoughts is an illusion. This realization leads to a different state of consciousness that is not bound by the limitations of individual identity or ego.

Liberation from the Self

Ultimately, Krishnamurti’s concept of consciousness points towards liberation from the ‘self’ or ego. He argued that true freedom comes from understanding the limitations of thought and transcending psychological time — which is based on past memories and future anticipations. When one realizes that all psychological suffering stems from this illusionary division within consciousness, it becomes possible to step out of this cycle. This state of mind — which he sometimes referred to as choiceless awareness — allows for a direct perception of reality as it is, unmediated by past conditioning.

It’s important to note that while Krishnamurti provided insights into consciousness’s nature through his talks and writings, he also emphasized that truth is a pathless land; suggesting that each individual must come to understand these truths through their own direct experience rather than accepting them second-hand.