How does observation reduce the strength and power of emotions and attachments? | J. Krishnamurti

Summary

The transcript explores the nature of emotions and attachments, emphasizing the importance of conscious awareness. It distinguishes between observing emotions as facts rather than ideas or concepts, highlighting that true understanding arises when one sees attachments as integral to oneself rather than as separate entities. The speaker explains that attempts to control, suppress, or act upon emotions only perpetuate conflict, whereas pure observation allows energy to be fully present and undissipated. By observing without interference, choice, or division, attachments naturally dissolve, revealing a state of clarity and freedom from fear, jealousy, and anxiety. Awareness is key to transcending the grip of attachments.

Takeaways

• 😀 Emotions and attachments are inherently strong and naturally influence our thoughts and actions.
• 😀 Attempting to control, suppress, or sublimate emotions does not reduce their intensity or conflict.
• 😀 Awareness of emotions and attachments is the first essential step in understanding them.
• 😀 Being aware means observing the **fact** of attachment, not forming ideas, judgments, or conclusions about it.
• 😀 True observation requires seeing attachments as part of oneself, without creating a division between 'me' and 'my attachment'.
• 😀 Pure observation, free from thought interference, naturally reduces the power and influence of emotions and attachments.
• 😀 When one observes without acting or choosing, energy is fully present, and attachment begins to dissolve.
• 😀 The process of awareness and observation is step-by-step; superficial understanding does not yield freedom from attachment.
• 😀 Only those who are unaware remain attached and dominated by their emotions; awareness brings clarity and freedom.
• 😀 Observing emotions without interference prevents the dissipation of energy and avoids the cycle of fear, jealousy, and possessiveness.
• 😀 The ultimate goal is non-dual observation, where there is no separation between the observer and the observed, leading to a natural resolution of attachments.

Q & A

What is the main theme discussed in the transcript?

The main theme of the transcript revolves around attachment, emotions, and the importance of self-awareness in understanding and observing them without interference from thought.

How do emotions and attachments influence our actions?

Emotions and attachments are described as powerful forces that can control our actions, overshadowing clear thinking and creating barriers to unconfused, rational decision-making.

What is meant by 'being aware' of emotions and attachments?

'Being aware' refers to consciously recognizing and observing our emotions and attachments without acting upon them or being influenced by them. It involves noticing them as facts, not as ideas or concepts.

How does thought interfere with observing emotions and attachments?

Thought can create a screen or filter through which we observe emotions and attachments. This distorts our perception, preventing us from seeing them clearly as they truly are, and may lead to actions based on these distorted perceptions.

What is the difference between observing the fact and the idea of attachment?

Observing the fact means recognizing attachment as something real and present, while observing the idea involves viewing attachment through a conceptual lens or conclusion that may not reflect the true nature of the emotion.

Why is observation considered key in dealing with attachment?

Observation is key because it allows for a pure and clear understanding of attachment without interference from thought. When we observe without judgment or action, the attachment dissolves naturally.

What happens when we treat attachment as 'me'?

When attachment is treated as 'me', it becomes inseparable from our identity. This makes it impossible to act upon it effectively. The only response becomes pure observation, which leads to the dissolution of attachment.

How does the act of choosing or resisting attachment affect the process of observation?

Choosing or resisting attachment introduces interference, as it moves us away from pure observation. In pure observation, there is no choice or resistance, allowing for clear, unbiased awareness.

What is the relationship between energy and attachment?

The transcript suggests that attachment consumes energy, and when we observe it fully without interference from thought, we gather energy, which leads to the dissipation of attachment.

What is the danger of attachment according to the transcript?

Attachment is considered dangerous because it breeds negative emotions like fear, anxiety, hate, and jealousy. These emotions can cloud judgment and lead to confusion and conflict in our lives.