How does someone who is Unenlightened recognize someone who is Enlightened?

Question

In the Darmic sense, how does one recognize, successfully, an enlightened person and their wisdom for what it is, if you are not enlightened?

Answer 1

Hello =)

Well,....If you are talking about Dharma in Buddhism, there are a specific set of signs to look for, but I find these to be a bit far-fetched, to me, anyway......

They are known as the 32 signs of sagehood, and include a few bizarre things, truly.

I suspect that other Dharmic religions have something similar.

I think that those of us who are unenlightened would feel a sense of awe at the wisdom of the enlightened. Of course, sometimes, the enlightened have seemed somewhat mad, as well. And then again, from the lips of the enlightened, sometimes it seems very mundane, as in a popular quote from a Himalayan Monk:

Before I became enlightened, I chopped wood.
After I became enlightened, I chopped wood......

Namaste,

--Tom

Answer 2

One doesn't.

There are certain traditions that the enlightened recognize each other; but it's the oldest story in the book that the "savior" is never recognized for what he is among the benighted.

In seeking a teacher of any sort, you're taking a gamble. You're operating on the assumption that he knows more and better than you; but you obviously have no means of checking that at a glance. The test is the rate of your own progress under his teaching. Enlightenment is always the result of original work; any teacher can only give you general guidelines for success. And no teaching is true for all men - that's the one scrap you can take to the bank. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."

Answer 3

Enlightened Ones see the Light in everyone and everywhere. The true artists see beauty in everyone and everywhere. Ones lacking the Light see darkness everywhere and in everyone. Although, one standing in the darkness sees clearly the one illuminated by a light, on a stage, for example, however Enlightened person is perceived as one who's vanity does not block the Light shining equally on everyone. This is my understanding, but I may be wrong, so please trust the Light within you. Thank you for asking.

Answer 4

well, the value of enlightenment varies from person to person. it's a subjective value. i studied under a guru for awhile and the main enlightenment i received from the experience was ...

Oz never did give nothin to the Tin Man that he didn't didn't already have.

Answer 5

He who seeks enlightenment from a man , only receives that mans idea of enlightenment.One who is illuminated by the Creator speaks only truth.Those who tell you otherwise seek to control you.
You known them when they speak of perfect love and truth.
Trust not those who wear coats of many colors. Seek true enlightenment sitting by yourself and listen quitely to Him who has created all things.
May The Creator Guide Your Path

Answer 6

All are somewhat enlightened. Just not as bright as others

Answer 7

Just as you may, in your daily life, recognize a thing you cannot see directly, from the shape of the shadow that it casts.

Answer 8

The question of the ages.--------one way is to follow their train of thought and decide for yourself if they are leading you to the Light.------Trust your own feelings in these matters and don't trust anybody who leads you away from the reality of yourself.

Answer 9

i think you confuse enlightenment with brainwashing.

if you are referring to people infected with the christian cult belief.

Answer 10

Always trust your intuition ~ it will not lie to you.

Namaste