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Witnessing is a myth || Acharya Prashant (2016)
Acharya Prashant
7.4K views
9 years ago
Witnessing
Observation
Ego
Memory
Experience
Stillness
Truth
Self-interest
Description

Acharya Prashant explains that witnessing is an extremely subtle state that is often misunderstood as a mental activity or a sensory experience. He clarifies that witnessing is not about coming to conclusions or making definite statements; rather, it is a state where the witness remains unseen while perceiving everything. He emphasizes that witnessing cannot be registered in memory because the witness is not a participant in the event. Therefore, any claim of 'remembering' a witnessing experience is likely just a mental projection or observation through the senses and mind. He distinguishes between observation and witnessing, noting that while observation is a starting point, true witnessing occurs only when the observer disappears, leaving no memory or ego behind. He further discusses how the human craving for experience and pleasure acts as a barrier to witnessing. Acharya Prashant asserts that the 'real'—including true love, joy, and freedom—cannot be experienced because it is beyond the domain of the mind and memory. He points out that the mind is configured to detect movement, stress, and excitement, making it incapable of experiencing absolute stillness or peace. The demand for spiritual experiences is often a disguised desire for pleasure. He suggests that when one honestly admits that past experiences have not provided lasting fulfillment, the expectation from experience drops, allowing one to abide in the simple self. To reach this state, Acharya Prashant advises a practice of honest and fearless observation of one's daily actions and choices. He explains that every mundane action, from choosing clothes to asking a specific question, reveals the configuration of one's mind and ego. However, people often block or kill observation when it begins to threaten their core beliefs or personal space. He highlights that fear and self-interest impede true seeing. By remaining uninterested in personal gain and refusing to meddle with the flow of activity, one can transition from effortful observation to the state of witnessing. He concludes that while the world may resist the changes that come from such realization, a commitment to the truth is essential for liberation.