What is the source of desire? | Krishnamurti

Summary

In this thought-provoking transcript, the speaker explores the nature of desire, emphasizing the distinction between words and the things they represent. Desire is not tied to objects themselves but arises from the mind’s creation of images after sensory experiences. The speaker urges the audience to understand how desire is a mental construct, triggered by sensory perception and thought. By becoming aware of this process, individuals can avoid conflicts in relationships, as desires often differ between people. The speaker challenges listeners to reflect on the source of their desires and approach them with mindfulness for deeper self-awareness.

Takeaways

• 😀 The word is not the thing it represents. The word 'tree' is not the actual tree, emphasizing the difference between language and reality.
• 😀 Desire is not the object itself but arises from the image created in the mind about that object.
• 😀 One must be cautious not to be caught in words or concepts, as they are separate from the actual experience.
• 😀 Sensory responses (touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing) are central to how desire begins, but they are not the whole picture.
• 😀 Desire arises when thought creates an image of the object of desire, like imagining oneself in a car after seeing it.
• 😀 The source of desire is in the mental creation of an image, which can happen after sensory responses and contact with the object.
• 😀 Understanding the nature of desire is crucial to preventing conflict in relationships, as different desires can lead to clashes.
• 😀 Being fully aware of the sensory responses, without attachment to a specific response, is key to eliminating a central observer in our perceptions.
• 😀 True observation requires engaging all senses, not just focusing on one specific sensory input, to avoid separation and division in perception.
• 😀 In order to reduce inner conflict, one must deeply understand desire and how it is rooted in thought, not the external objects themselves.
• 😀 Observing and experiencing objects, such as a beautiful vase or car, without creating an image or mental desire can lead to a purer perception.

Q & A

What is the primary distinction between the word 'tree' and the actual tree in the script?

The primary distinction is that the word 'tree' is just a label or concept we use to identify the object, but it is not the tree itself. The tree exists as a physical entity, independent of the word.

How does the script explain the relationship between words and objects?

The script explains that words are representations of objects, but they are not the objects themselves. The word is a mental construct that helps us recognize and categorize things, but it does not capture the full essence of the object.

Why is it important to understand that 'desire is not separate from the observer'?

Understanding that desire is not separate from the observer highlights the fact that our desires are shaped by our thoughts and perceptions. The observer (the self) and the desire are intertwined, and recognizing this can help prevent external desires from creating conflict within ourselves.

What role do sensory responses play in the formation of desire?

Sensory responses are the starting point for desire. When we experience something through our senses (seeing, hearing, touching), it triggers a reaction in the mind. This reaction, when combined with thought, can create an image, leading to the formation of desire for that object.

How does the script describe the process through which desire arises?

Desire arises when sensory responses lead to contact with an object, and thought subsequently creates an image of the self engaging with that object. This image sparks the desire to possess or experience the object further.

Why is it important to be aware of how desire arises?

Awareness of how desire arises is crucial because it helps prevent unconscious reactions that can lead to conflict, particularly in relationships. Without understanding desire's source, we are likely to be driven by it in ways that can cause inner turmoil and external struggles.

What does the speaker mean by 'responding with all your senses'?

Responding with all your senses means observing and interacting with the world in a holistic manner, using all sensory faculties together without focusing on a specific aspect. This helps eliminate the centralised observer and reduces fragmentation in perception.

How does the script describe the relationship between thought and desire?

The script explains that thought is the key element in transforming a sensory experience into desire. After a sensory response, thought creates an image of oneself interacting with the object, and this image creates the desire to obtain or experience the object.

What is the significance of understanding the source of desire in relationships?

Understanding the source of desire is vital in relationships because it helps individuals recognize that their desires may be influenced by their own thoughts and perceptions, which can lead to conflicts if not understood. Awareness allows for deeper harmony and understanding between people.

What does the speaker mean when they refer to desire as 'subtle' and 'deceptive'?

The speaker refers to desire as subtle and deceptive because it often arises without our full awareness, making it difficult to recognize its true source. Our thoughts can distort and amplify desire, leading to confusion and emotional turmoil.