The concepts of Jāgrat (Wakefulness), Svapna (Dream), and Suṣhupti (Deep Sleep)and Turiya (Pure Consciousness)

The concepts of Jāgrat (Wakefulness), Svapna (Dream), and Suṣhupti (Deep Sleep) are fundamental states of consciousness described in Vedanta philosophy, particularly in the Māṇḍūkya Upanishad. These three states are collectively known as Avasthā Trayam (Three States of Consciousness).

Jāgrat (Wakefulness), Svapna (Dream),Suṣhupti
(Deep Sleep)and Turiya (Pure Consciousness)

1. Jāgrat Avasthā (Wakeful State)

This is the state in which we experience the external world through our senses. The mind is engaged with external objects, and we perform actions and experience their results.This state is associated with the individual self (Jīva) engaging in worldly affairs. It is also referred to as "Vishva", representing the gross physical experience.

2. Svapna Avasthā (Dream State)

In this state, the mind creates its own reality based on past experiences and impressions. External sensory input is absent, but the mind remains active, generating its own dream world. This state is known as "Taijasa", as the mind appears to be internally illuminated with thoughts and imaginations.

Do dreams come true?

According to the Shrimad Bhagavat Mahapuran (Canto 4, Chapter 29), most dreams are not true. However, some dreams can carry messages and may come true—especially when a person dreams of something they had no prior knowledge of, and the dream is later verified or confirmed by other sources.

3. Suṣhupti Avasthā (Deep Sleep State)

This is the state of deep, dreamless sleep where the mind and senses are inactive. The individual experiences peace and bliss but does not retain awareness of it during sleep. The ego, desires, and thoughts are temporarily dissolved. It is referred to as "Prājña", representing undisturbed consciousness.

4.The Fourth State: Turiya (Pure Consciousness)

Beyond these three states, Vedanta describes Turiya, the transcendental state. Turiya represents pure awareness of Brahm-(ब्रह्म), and the true nature of the Self.

In the Turiya state, there is neither dreaming nor deep sleep. It is the state in which the soul is pure, liberated, and one with Brahm. In this state, In the Turiya state, there is neither dreaming nor deep sleep. It is the state in which the soul is pure, liberated, and one with Brahm. In this state, the soul knows itself and Brahm.

Thus, these three states (Wakefulness, Dream, and Deep Sleep) are temporary experiences, while Turiya is the ultimate, ever-present state of pure consciousness.

Many religious texts divide pure consciousness into three levels: higher consciousness, pure consciousness, and absolute awareness:-  Higher consciousness 🔜 Pure consciousness🔜 Pure consciousness🔜  Absolute Awareness.

It is said that from higher consciousness, one can reach pure consciousness, where a subtle sense of self as the witness still remains. Beyond this, one can transcend from pure consciousness into absolute awareness, where there is no distinction between the self and the ultimate reality—only infinite, non-dual existence remains.