Buddha Speaks - Being Enlightened

 

Enlightenment is like the moon reflected on the water. The moon does not get wet, nor is the water broken. Although its light is wide and great, the moon is reflected even in a puddle an inch wide. The whole moon and the entire sky are reflected in dewdrops on the grass, or even in one drop of water.  - Eihei Dogen, "Genjokoan"

I was chatting with friends and the topic of enlightenment came up.  Here is how we define enlightenment according to Wikipedia.  “The English term "enlightenment" has commonly been used to translate several Sanskrit, Pali, [web 2] Chinese and Japanese terms and concepts, especially bodhi, prajna, kensho, satori and buddhahood. Bodhi is a Theravada term. It literally means "awakening" and "understanding".”

Our discussion seemed to conclude that enlightenment was actions that worked both for the individual and the community and the environment, because, in this way, you harm no one.  I think that more and more people are becoming enlightened.  However, as the population grows, it seems like less beings are enlightened. 

Blessings.