Total Freedom: The Essential Krishnamurti by Jiddu Krishnamurti

Total Freedom: The Essential Krishnamurti by Jiddu Krishnamurti is an insightful work that examines the freedom and liberation achievable through correct cognition or self-understanding. Written by the celebrated Indian philosopher and guru Jiddu Krishnamurti, this book offers spiritual guidance to readers of all backgrounds and walks of life.

In Total Freedom: The Essential Krishnamurti, Jiddu Krishnamurti begins by exploring the traditional notions of freedom, arguing that despite their appearance of offering liberation, most of these beliefs actually enslave us within a certain worldview. He then goes on to examine the liberating power of self-knowledge—knowledge of one’s own thoughts, motivations, and intentions. According to Krishnamurti, the attainment of freedom and liberation is only possible through an honest examination and understanding of the self.

Krishnamurti further argues that a lack of self-knowledge can lead to harmful psychological states, leading one to confuse their thoughts, feelings, and desires. To him, self-knowledge allows one to be able to distinguish one’s own thoughts and actions from those of others. It is through the practice of self-knowledge that genuine freedom and liberation can be achieved.

Krishnamurti makes use of various real-world examples to convey his ideas, such as personal anecdotes and conversations he has had with various people. By taking the reader through seemingly mundane events and interactions, he is able to intimately and thoughtfully convey his message about the power of self-knowledge and its potential for liberation.

Total Freedom: The Essential Krishnamurti also examines the role of culture, religion, and society in the attainment of freedom and liberation. To Krishnamurti, these are all essential pieces of the puzzle needed to break free from the restrictive cage of the ego. He offers simple yet profound advice to the reader on how to break free from the mental and emotional obstacles that bind us and imprison our true potential.

Total Freedom: The Essential Krishnamurti by Jiddu Krishnamurti provides an intricate and detailed analysis of the power of self-knowledge and its potential to bring freedom and liberation to the individual. Krishnamurti allows the reader to develop a deeper understanding of the self and how one can overcome psychological impediments in order to achieve true freedom and liberation. Through his messages of compassion, understanding, and insight, Krishnamurti offers a much-needed guidebook to true freedom and liberation.