"To understand oneself is the beginning of wisdom. Wisdom does not lie in books, nor in experience, nor in following another, nor in repeating a lot of platitudes. Wisdom comes to a mind that is understanding itself, understanding how thought is born. Have you ever questioned or asked: What is the beginning of thought, how does thought come into being? That is a very important thing to understand. Because, if you can understand the beginning of thought, then perhaps you can find a mind that is not burdened with thought as a repetition of what has been. As we said, thought is always old, thought is never new. Unless you discover for yourselfânot repeat what somebody says, it doesnât matter who it isâunless you find out for yourself the beginning of thought, like a seed which puts out a green leaf, you cannot possibly go beyond the limitations of yesterday." J. Krishnamurti Note: this video doesn't contain Krishnamurti's voice because there is no original audio recording of this excerpt.
Our world is in disorder, both inwardly and outwardly, and a new way of living is required. Each of us is part of this disorder in both obvious and inconspicuous ways driven by our ambition, greed, jealousy, and other forms of conflict. Why is humanity like this and where does this conflict originate? Krishnamurti says we must understand ourselves to bring about this new way of living; he says that wisdom comes from understanding thought, not from books or following what another says. It could be that understanding what we are awakens another type of action, one that goes beyond what humanity has repeated over and over again. Will you find out for yourself? Share your thoughts and comments.
The Immeasurable is dedicated to exploring the essential questions of our existence. The intent is to inspire readers to question assumptions of the mind, offering opportunities to ask deep questions into common life themes which are superficially accepted. This project is made possible by supporters like you. Please click here and assist us by contributing this year with a donation that feels meaningful to you. Whether your support is a one-time gift, or a recurring monthly gift, it will ensure that this important work is strengthened and sustained for yearsâand many generationsâto come. The Immeasurable is a project of the Krishnamurti Center, which is part of the Krishnamurti Foundation of America (KFA). The KFA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
