Meaning: This quote by Sri Aurobindo, the Indian philosopher, poet, and nationalist, encapsulates his belief in the inherent potential of humanity to transcend its current state and achieve a higher level of existence. Sri Aurobindo was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement and a leading proponent of the philosophy of integral yoga, which emphasizes the evolution of consciousness and the realization of one's true self. In this quote, Aurobindo highlights the idea that humans possess the capacity to surpass their limitations and realize their full potential, a concept that he believed was only beginning to be recognized in Europe at the time.

The quote begins with the assertion that "She saw too," indicating that there is a female figure or entity to whom the following truths are attributed. This could be interpreted as a metaphorical reference to a higher wisdom or intuitive insight that transcends conventional human understanding. Aurobindo often spoke of the divine feminine principle as a source of intuition and inner knowledge, so this could be a nod to that concept.

The first truth highlighted in the quote is that "man has the power of exceeding himself," suggesting that humans possess the ability to go beyond their current limitations and achieve a state of being that surpasses their present condition. This idea aligns with Aurobindo's belief in the evolution of consciousness and the potential for individuals to transcend their ordinary selves through spiritual and psychological growth.

The second truth mentioned is that of "becoming himself more entirely and profoundly than he is," which points to the notion that individuals have the capacity to realize and embody their true selves to a greater degree. This idea is central to Aurobindo's philosophy of integral yoga, which aims at the complete transformation and self-realization of the individual, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling existence.

Furthermore, the quote emphasizes that these truths are only beginning to be recognized in Europe, suggesting that the concept of human potential for transcendence and self-realization was not widely acknowledged or understood in the Western world at the time. Aurobindo, who lived during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was writing at a time when European philosophy and psychology were undergoing significant shifts, with the emergence of ideas about the unconscious mind, the depths of human potential, and the exploration of Eastern spiritual traditions.

The quote concludes with the observation that these truths "seem even now too great for its common intelligence," implying that the recognition of human potential for transcendence and self-realization was beyond the grasp of the average understanding prevalent in Europe. This could be seen as a critique of the prevailing intellectual and cultural climate in Europe, which Aurobindo believed was not yet ready to fully comprehend and embrace these profound truths about human potential.

In summary, Sri Aurobindo's quote encapsulates his belief in the innate capacity of humanity to exceed its current state and realize its full potential. It reflects his conviction in the evolution of consciousness and the transformative power of integral yoga, as well as his perception of the limited understanding of these truths in Europe at the time. This quote serves as a testament to Aurobindo's visionary philosophy and his commitment to the idea of human evolution towards a more profound and authentic existence.