G. I. Gurdjieff's assertion that "conscience is innate, but buried" invites us to explore the profound layers of our inner moral compass. This statement suggests that while the capacity for conscience is an inherent part of our being, it often lies dormant beneath the surface of our everyday lives. The implications of this understanding are significant; recognizing the buried nature of our conscience can lead to a transformative journey of self-discovery and awakening. It challenges us to excavate the depths of our psyche to uncover the guiding principles that can lead to a more authentic existence.
Delving deeper into this quote, we confront the duality of our nature: the innate goodness that resides within us and the layers of conditioning that obscure it. Gurdjieff's perspective compels us to consider how societal influences, personal experiences, and habitual patterns can bury our innate conscience, leading to a disconnection from our true selves. This disconnection not only affects our personal lives but also ripples out into our relationships and communities, highlighting the urgent need for introspection and conscious living. The journey toward unearthing this buried conscience is not merely a personal endeavor; it is a collective call to awaken to our shared humanity.
The image / the metaphor
Gurdjieff's metaphor of conscience being "buried" evokes a vivid image of something precious hidden beneath layers of earth. The choice of the word "buried" implies a sense of neglect or abandonment, suggesting that our conscience, while inherently valuable, has been overshadowed by the weight of external influences and internal conflicts. This imagery invites us to visualize the process of excavation, where we must dig deep into our psyche to uncover the innate wisdom that lies dormant within. The act of unearthing requires effort, patience, and a willingness to confront the discomfort that may arise during this journey.
Going deeper into this metaphor, we can liken the buried conscience to a seed that has yet to sprout. Just as a seed requires the right conditions—nourishment, sunlight, and time—to grow into a flourishing plant, our conscience needs the right environment to emerge. This environment is cultivated through self-awareness, mindfulness, and intentional practices that foster inner growth. The process of nurturing our conscience involves not only recognizing its existence but also actively engaging with it, allowing it to guide our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others.
In the speaker's tradition
Within Gurdjieff's Fourth Way tradition, the concept of conscience is intricately linked to the idea of self-remembering and the quest for self-knowledge. Gurdjieff posited that true understanding of oneself is essential for awakening the conscience that lies dormant. This aligns with the broader spiritual concepts of dharma, which emphasizes living in accordance with one's true nature, and kenosis, the process of self-emptying that allows for the emergence of deeper truths. In this context, the journey to uncover our buried conscience becomes a path toward realizing our authentic selves and fulfilling our unique purpose in the world.
In Gurdjieff's seminal work, "In Search of the Miraculous," he explores the necessity of inner work to awaken the conscience. He emphasizes that without conscious effort, individuals remain trapped in mechanical patterns of behavior, disconnected from their innate moral compass. This notion resonates with the Buddhist concept of sunyata, or emptiness, which encourages practitioners to let go of attachments and preconceived notions to access deeper truths. Both traditions highlight the importance of inner exploration and the transformative power of awakening to one's true nature.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where an individual faces a moral dilemma at work, such as witnessing unethical behavior among colleagues. In this moment, the innate conscience may be buried beneath fear of repercussions or the desire for acceptance. However, recognizing this internal conflict can serve as a catalyst for self-reflection. By engaging with the buried conscience, the individual can choose to act in alignment with their values, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. This scenario illustrates how the awakening of conscience can lead to courageous actions that not only benefit the individual but also contribute to a more ethical workplace environment.
Another application of this teaching can be found in personal relationships, particularly during conflicts. When emotions run high, it is easy to lose sight of our innate conscience, allowing reactive patterns to take over. By consciously pausing to reflect on our buried conscience, we can approach the situation with empathy and understanding, seeking to communicate authentically rather than defensively. This practice not only deepens our connections with others but also reinforces our commitment to living in accordance with our true selves, fostering healthier and more meaningful relationships.
A reflection
As we contemplate Gurdjieff's assertion that "conscience is innate, but buried," we are invited to reflect on our own lives. What layers of conditioning or societal expectations may be obscuring our innate moral compass? In what ways can we begin to excavate these layers to reconnect with our true selves? This inquiry serves as a powerful reminder that the journey toward awakening our conscience is both personal and collective, urging us to engage in the ongoing work of self-discovery and authentic living.
