What is an enlightened person called?

An enlightened person is often referred to by various terms across different spiritual and cultural traditions. Each term reflects a particular aspect of enlightenment and its associated attributes. This article explores the various names and titles used to describe enlightened individuals, highlighting their meanings and the contexts in which they are used.

1. Buddhist Terms

Buddha:

  • Meaning: The term "Buddha" means "the Awakened One" or "the Enlightened One" in Sanskrit. It refers to someone who has achieved full enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara).
  • Context: Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, is the most well-known figure to bear this title. In Buddhism, anyone who reaches the same state of profound realization and liberation can be referred to as a Buddha.

Arhat:

  • Meaning: "Arhat" means "Worthy One" in Pali. An arhat is a person who has attained nirvana, the ultimate liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.
  • Context: In Theravada Buddhism, an arhat is someone who has achieved enlightenment through personal effort and insight.

Bodhisattva:

  • Meaning: "Bodhisattva" means "Enlightenment Being" in Sanskrit. A bodhisattva is an individual who seeks to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings and postpones their own final enlightenment to assist others.
  • Context: In Mahayana Buddhism, a bodhisattva is someone who has made a vow to work towards enlightenment while helping others achieve liberation.

2. Hindu Terms

Mahatma:

  • Meaning: "Mahatma" means "Great Soul" in Sanskrit. It denotes a person of great spiritual insight and moral integrity.
  • Context: This title is often used to honor individuals who are revered for their wisdom and spiritual achievements, such as Mahatma Gandhi, though not necessarily in a religious context.

Sage (Rishi):

  • Meaning: The term "Sage" or "Rishi" refers to a wise and spiritually advanced person in Hinduism. Rishis are often credited with deep meditation and the revelation of sacred texts.
  • Context: In Hinduism, sages are respected for their spiritual insight and contributions to sacred knowledge.

Yogi:

  • Meaning: "Yogi" is a term for someone who practices yoga and has attained a high level of spiritual realization.
  • Context: In Hindu tradition, a yogi who has achieved enlightenment through rigorous spiritual practice and self-discipline is highly esteemed.

3. Sufi Terms

Saint (Wali):

  • Meaning: "Wali" means "Friend of God" in Arabic. It refers to someone who is spiritually close to God and has attained a high level of divine awareness and purity.
  • Context: In Sufism, saints are revered for their deep spiritual connection and their ability to guide others on the path of divine love.

Fana:

  • Meaning: "Fana" means "Annihilation" in Arabic, referring to the state of self-annihilation and complete unity with the divine.
  • Context: An individual who has experienced fana is often considered to have attained a high level of spiritual realization.

4. Christian Terms

Mystic:

  • Meaning: A "Mystic" is a person who seeks to experience a direct, personal connection with the divine through spiritual practices.
  • Context: Christian mystics, such as John of the Cross and Teresa of Ávila, are known for their deep spiritual experiences and insights into the nature of God.

Saint:

  • Meaning: In Christianity, a "Saint" is someone who has led a life of exceptional holiness and virtue, often recognized for their deep spiritual connection and miraculous deeds.
  • Context: Saints are venerated for their profound faith and spiritual accomplishments, though not all saints are necessarily considered enlightened in the same sense as in Eastern traditions.

5. Contemporary Terms

Spiritual Teacher or Guide:

  • Meaning: These terms refer to individuals who have attained spiritual enlightenment and offer guidance and wisdom to others on their spiritual journey.
  • Context: In contemporary spiritual practices, enlightened individuals who provide teaching and support are often called spiritual teachers or guides.

Awakened Being:

  • Meaning: "Awakened Being" is a general term used to describe someone who has achieved a high level of spiritual realization and insight.
  • Context: This term is used across various spiritual traditions to denote an individual who has awakened to their true nature and reality.

Conclusion

The terms used to describe an enlightened person vary across different spiritual and cultural traditions, each reflecting unique aspects of enlightenment and its attributes. From "Buddha" and "Arhat" in Buddhism to "Yogi" and "Sage" in Hinduism, and "Mystic" and "Saint" in Christianity, these titles signify profound spiritual achievement and realization. Understanding these terms provides insight into the diverse ways enlightenment is recognized and honored in different spiritual contexts.