REALIZATION vs EXPERIENCE (PDF-1775)

What is the difference between the two very popular terms often used by Buddhists: experience and realization. It is worth being clear about. Experience is what we are all having every day of our lives, and this includes our metaphysical or sacred experiences. When we are talking about spiritual experiences, the bottom line is that they are not permanent. What goes up comes down, sooner or later. That is the hallmark of all experience: it does not last. We all know this. Heaven knows, when I have some kind of epiphany (or the least spiritual insight) I hope it will last. I act as if it will last and certainly blab to others as if it is now a permanent state that I am living. The sad truth is that these experiences do not last. What is up one day (i.e. me) is almost certain to be down the next day or soon after that.