Realization

Realization means, in the contemplative traditions, knowing a truth so fully and directly that it becomes real in the knower’s life: not knowing about something, but knowing it as one’s own being. The English word is used to translate several terms, among them the Sanskrit sākṣātkāra, “making directly present”, and is often paired with “self-realization” or “God-realization” in modern Indian teaching.

The idea is that some truths cannot be grasped by hearing or reasoning alone. One may accept that the self is Brahman, or that all things are empty, and remain unchanged; realization is the point at which the truth is seen directly, and transforms perception, motivation and action. Advaita describes a path of hearing, reflection and meditation that culminates in direct knowledge; Buddhist traditions speak of insight that uproots the defilements.

Realization is related to, but not the same as, mystical experience: an experience may be passing, while realization is meant to be stable. Many teachers insist that the test of realization is not a state but a life.