'It is no measure of health to be well adjusted
to a profoundly sick society.'
The Life of Jiddu Krishnamurti
Jiddu Krishnamurti was an independent thinker who was adopted into the Theosophical Society. The Theosophical Society believed that all religions hold some truth, and that each religion helps humanity evolve towards perfection. This society appointed Krishnamurti as a leader; he later renounced this position and embarked upon his own spiritual pursuits.
Leaving Thesophy
There was much preparation in the expectation that Krishnamurti would lead the Theosophists. An organization called the Order of the Star in the East was formed, and he was placed in charge of this international group.
It was in 1929 that Krishnamurti decided to leave his position and return all of the funds and property he was given in connection with that position. For the rest of his life, Krishnamurti spoke to many groups all over the world expressing the need for revolutionary change in all humanity.
Religion and philosophy
While Krishnamurti is known and respected as a religious teacher and a great thinker, he never spoke specifically about any particular religious order or held to any single philosophy. His speech focused on universally human ideas. He talked about everyday life. Krishnamurti's messages were focused on suggesting ways that humanity could be free from violence, corruption, sorrow, anger and fear. He believed that everyone should meditate and have a more spiritual approach to living.
Krishnamurti believed that the cause of conflicts and wars that people struggle through were the divisive ideologies of the different religions, philosophies and political thoughts. He never presented himself as a great spiritual leader or master, but more as a friend. He spoke on his personal insight and observation rather than any specific religion, philosophy or readings and studies. He strived to encourage others to think for themselves and find their own way.
His teachings
There are several unique ideas that Krishnamurti presented in his teachings. The knowledge that he shared was universally applicable and relevant even in the present day. He constantly stated that people are not first a religion, but that they are first human beings. He wanted everyone to treat themselves well and preserve Earth. He respected humanity and nature, and wanted others to do the same.
Krishnamurti took it upon himself to challenge religion, science, and psychology. He held many interviews and met one-on-one with many people. He helped people to see the limitations of their theories by gently and thoroughly breaking them down into details. For those that came to him for help with their personal lives, he encouraged them to gain their own understanding and to heal themselves. He listened to others carefully and always gave specific guidance.
Even when Krishnamurti spoke to large crowds, many people felt that he had spoken to their specific needs.
He believed that there was no road to truth. It was through our own human experience, learning about ourselves through our relationships, observation, and understanding our own thoughts that were can find truth. Intellectual pursuits were not the answer according to him.
In a sense, his thinking was very rational, and almost scientific. He begins with a fact or a thought that comes from his observation. He listens and observes for more insight and gains knowledge. If the thought or fact makes sense in the realities of life, then he can agree with it.
Thoughts on Freedom
To most people, then and today, freedom is about choices and the ability to make choices. Krishnamurti had a completely different idea about freedom. In fact, he thought that freedom was about not choosing.
Freedom to him was to simply be aware. To be free is to exist and engage in the activities of life without fears or motives or objectives. Living a free life meant no focus on rewards. It is directionless observation.
Psychological evolution
He did not believe in psychological evolution. Krishnamurti believed that when a person becomes aware of their own thoughts, they become an observer. This observation creates a radical insight that disregards the entrapments of time and the past. The mind does not evolve, but rather grows in understanding through observation.
His influence
Much of Krishnamurti influence was on a personal level, and the impact was made during his lifetime. He is, however still studied occasionally and is revered as a great thinker and influential person.
Krishnamurti left some writings behind, including the book, The First and Last Freedom. Many of his teachings, public speeches, letters, and television and radio interviews have been compiled, published and studied.
There are also records of his challenging discussions with students, teachers, scientists and religious leaders. Many of these talks have also been published as books.
Audio and video recordings have also been made available.
Jiddu Krishnamurti was truly unique in his approach to life, and he shared his thoughts will people all over the world. His legacy certainly did not die with him. His thoughts are timeless and relevant to the time that we live in now.
