The quote “To understand the immeasurable, the mind must be extraordinarily quiet, still” by Jiddu Krishnamurti delves into the idea that certain aspects of existence or reality that transcend ordinary measurements or definitions can only be grasped when the mind is in a state of profound calm and stillness. Let’s break down the meaning of this quote:
- Immeasurable Aspects: “The immeasurable” refers to concepts or experiences that are beyond the scope of conventional measurement or definition. These might include things like deep insight, spiritual experiences, profound love, or the essence of existence itself. These are elements that go beyond what can be quantified or explained using ordinary language.
- Quiet and Still Mind: Krishnamurti suggests that a quiet and still mind is necessary to understand these immeasurable aspects. A quiet mind is free from the usual noise of thoughts, judgments, worries, and mental chatter. It’s a state of mental tranquility where the mind is not constantly running from one thought to another.
- Extraordinary Quietness: The word “extraordinary” emphasizes that the level of quietness required is not merely a superficial silence. It’s a deep and profound stillness that goes beyond what is commonly experienced. This level of quietness implies a mind that is not only free from surface distractions but also from the deeper currents of desire, fear, and conditioning.
- Understanding: Understanding in this context doesn’t necessarily refer to intellectual comprehension. It’s more about a direct, intuitive, and experiential insight into these immeasurable aspects. It’s a kind of knowing that comes from a deep connection with reality, unburdened by the limitations of language or thought.
The quote encapsulates Krishnamurti’s emphasis on the importance of inner quietness and stillness as a means to access deeper truths and realities that are not easily captured by the conceptual mind. It suggests that through cultivating a mind that is profoundly quiet and still, individuals can open themselves up to experiencing and understanding dimensions of existence that go beyond ordinary description.
This quote aligns with practices like meditation and mindfulness, which aim to quiet the mind and bring about a state of present-moment awareness. In such a state, individuals may have glimpses of insights that are not accessible in the usual state of mental activity and noise.