Awakening of the Soul: Mind, Consciousness, and Chitt

 Understanding the Chitt

The journey of spiritual awakening begins with understanding the deepest layer of the mind, referred to in this discourse as the picture or image (Chitt). This picture is not imagination; it is the innermost dimension of the mind where consciousness directly touches the soul. When awareness reaches this depth, the soul begins to experience its true nature—pure light, pure wisdom, and supreme peace. This article unfolds the progressive stages of the mind, the nature of consciousness, different types of inner images, and how true liberation becomes possible through conscious control, meditation, and inner purity.

Mind and Consciousness: The Inner Connection

Consciousness is not separate from the mind; it is accessed through the deepest dimension of the mind. The mind has layers—thoughts, memories, intellect, and impressions (samskaras). Beyond these layers lies the picture: the silent zone where the soul is directly experienced.  When a seeker gains conscious control over this inner picture, awareness shifts from surface thinking to soul-consciousness. This shift brings illumination, clarity, and an experiential understanding of one’s eternal nature.

Control Over the Mind: Gateway to Divine Awareness

True spiritual growth begins when subtle thoughts are mastered. Control over the mind does not mean suppression; it means awareness without attachment. When memories, reactions, and karmic impressions lose their grip, pure wisdom emerges naturally.  In this state, consciousness becomes infinite. Past karmas dissolve, mental noise disappears, and the soul recognizes itself as divine. This mastery transforms ordinary awareness into a living connection with the Supreme.

The Concept of Chitt
The Chitt represents the energetic state of the mind at its deepest level. Every seeker carries an image shaped by thoughts, memories, and intentions. Spiritual progress can be measured by observing the purity of this image.  After sincere meditation, a seeker naturally wonders: Am I truly progressing, or am I merely repeating rituals? The answer lies within one’s own image—no external validation is required.

Measuring Spiritual Progress

Spiritual advancement is reflected in the clarity, honesty, and purity of self-observation. The image reveals whether thoughts are aligned with truth or still rooted in fear, negativity, and attachment.  Honest inner observation—without self-deception—is the true mirror of spiritual growth. One’s thoughts after meditation clearly indicate the level of transformation achieved.

1.       Negative Chitt: The Lowest State

A negative image is dominated by harmful thoughts, resentment, fear, and the desire to harm others. Such a mind is trapped in ignorance and darkness. These tendencies arise from unresolved impressions and lack of awareness.

Two powerful contemplations can immediately interrupt negativity:

• Awareness of death, which silences trivial thoughts.

·       Remembrance of God, which redirects consciousness toward divinity.

These two forces alone can instantly realign the mind.

2.       The Past-Focused Mind

A mind trapped in the past continuously replays old events—pleasant or painful—seeking joy or justification. This habit prevents growth and blocks the creation of a positive future.  Repeated remembrance of past pain leads to depression and negativity. Spiritual maturity requires placing a full stop on the past and consciously reprogramming the mind toward the present.

3.       The Ordinary or Reactive Image

The ordinary image fluctuates with surroundings. In good company, thoughts become positive; in negative company, thoughts decline. Such a mind has no inner authority and remains dependent on external influences.  Most individuals remain trapped at this level, focused only on survival—food, work, comfort—never questioning higher purpose or self-realization.

4.       Thoughtlessness: A Higher Meditative State

With sustained practice, a seeker may enter a state of thoughtlessness—neither good nor bad thoughts arise. This is not emptiness but deep presence.  In this state, the mind rests, and consciousness shines unobstructed. This is a significant milestone where the image begins to strengthen and purify.

5.       Pure Consciousness and Empowered Image

When purity stabilizes, the image becomes empowered. Such a mind is free from malice, unaffected by others’ behavior, and continuously radiates goodwill.  At this stage, karmic bondage weakens, compassion flows naturally, and divine consciousness remains active. Whatever such an image resolves tends to manifest, as it aligns with higher law.

6.       Beneficial Image and World Welfare

The highest image is the beneficial image, from which auspicious energy continuously flows. Such souls think well even of those who harm them. Their presence alone uplifts others.  This state represents true world welfare—where divine consciousness acts through the individual effortlessly, ensuring harmony and healing.

 Daily Practice and Responsibility

Spiritual life does not demand abandoning responsibilities. Balance is essential—work, rest, and spiritual practice must coexist. Even a small daily commitment to inner purification creates lasting transformation.  Excuses like “no time” are illusions. Time exists; awareness of its purpose is what matte

One Resolution, Infinite Transformation

A single, sincere resolution—I am pure consciousness connected to the Supreme—can transform lifetimes of karmic burden. Just as modern technology transfers vast data instantly, spiritual realization can occur in a fraction of a second when readiness is complete.

Living each moment as the final moment accelerates liberation. The soul steps into supreme light, supreme life, and supreme joy.

Conclusion: Awakening of the Soul

The awakening of the soul is not distant or impossible. It unfolds naturally as the image purifies and consciousness stabilizes. When inner and divine become one, all bondage dissolves, and the soul merges with supreme awareness.

May every seeker reflect, practice, and awaken to their true self.