Meaning: The quote "When the divine vision is attained, all appear equal; and there remains no distinction of good and bad, or of high and low" by Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the 19th-century Indian mystic and spiritual leader, encapsulates the essence of spiritual enlightenment and the concept of non-duality in various religious and philosophical traditions. Ramakrishna was a prominent figure in the revitalization of Hinduism in the 19th century and is revered for his teachings on the unity of all religious paths and the transcendence of dualistic perceptions.

At the heart of Ramakrishna's teachings is the idea that when an individual attains a higher state of consciousness or divine vision, they perceive the underlying unity and interconnectedness of all existence. In this state, distinctions such as good and bad, high and low, or any other dualistic categorizations dissolve, and a profound sense of oneness and equality prevails. This vision is not limited to a specific religious or spiritual tradition but is seen as the culmination of the spiritual journey, transcending the boundaries of dogma and doctrine.

The concept of equality in the divine vision is multi-layered. On one level, it points to the dissolution of societal and hierarchical distinctions. In this state of consciousness, social, economic, and cultural differences lose their significance, and all beings are recognized as manifestations of the divine. This notion challenges the conventional norms and structures that perpetuate inequality and discrimination, inviting individuals to perceive the inherent divinity in all and extend compassion and respect indiscriminately.

Furthermore, the absence of distinctions between good and bad in the divine vision implies a shift in moral and ethical perception. Rather than viewing actions and individuals through a lens of judgment and categorization, the enlightened perspective acknowledges the underlying unity of existence and recognizes the complex interplay of forces that shape human behavior. This understanding fosters empathy, forgiveness, and a deeper comprehension of the intricate tapestry of life, transcending simplistic notions of right and wrong.

Ramakrishna's quote also resonates with the teachings of various spiritual traditions, including Advaita Vedanta, Buddhism, and Sufism, which emphasize the illusory nature of dualistic perceptions. In Advaita Vedanta, the ultimate reality is described as non-dual, where distinctions are regarded as superficial and misleading. Similarly, in Buddhism, the concept of emptiness (shunyata) points to the interdependence and interconnectedness of all phenomena, transcending the limitations of dualistic thinking.

In Sufism, the idea of unity (tawhid) reflects the mystical understanding of the oneness of existence, where all apparent differentiations are seen as veils that obscure the underlying unity. These parallels illustrate the universality of the concept expressed in Ramakrishna's quote and its resonance with the core principles of non-duality and spiritual realization across diverse traditions.

In conclusion, Ramakrishna's quote encapsulates the profound insight that accompanies the attainment of the divine vision. It points to the dissolution of dualistic perceptions, the recognition of the underlying unity of existence, and the transcendence of hierarchical, moral, and categorical distinctions. This vision of equality and non-duality serves as a guiding light for individuals on the spiritual path, inviting them to perceive the interconnectedness of all and embody a deeper sense of compassion, understanding, and oneness with the world.