That this would be a more apt interpretation may be seen by comparing the
different reports of those experiencing the phenomenon of Illumination.

Nevertheless there has been much controversy regarding the meaning of the
terms nirvana; samadhi; dai zikaku, etc.--words expressing the condition
which we are considering under the phrase cosmic consciousness.


WHAT IS NIRVANA?

Let us consider briefly, what is meant by Nirvana, and see if it is not
highly probable that the word describes the state of consciousness which
we are considering, referring later on to the question, and its
interpretation by the various schools of religion and philosophy.

It is apparent that the most learned sages of the Orient fail to agree as
to the exact meaning of Nirvana. Occidental writers and leaders of the
Theosophical philosophy, differ somewhat as to its import, but at the same
time we find enough unity on this point to make it evident that the state
of Nirvana is a desirable attainment--the goal of the religious enthusiast.

Going back for a moment, to a consideration of the earliest recorded
religion of Japan, we find that Sintoism means literally "the way of the
gods," meaning the way in which men who have become god-like, found the
path that led thereunto, but as to exactly what conditions are represented
by godhood, how indeed, is it possible for man to _know_, much less to
express?

Since we are conscious of a divine and irresistible urge toward the
attainment of this state of being, it is hardly consistent with what we