An evolution of consciousness is the hidden inner meaning and purpose of life on earth — this is the foundation for the teaching of Sri Aurobindo. The secret thread running through all existence is the evolution. Consciousness is involved within matter, and it successively manifests at higher levels in the course of time. Thus plants, animals, and human beings have come forward through time on this planet. Sri Aurobindo points out clearly that this evolutionary process has not been completed. Within the seeking and aspiration that move through humanity, there is an underlying pressure for the manifestation of a new level of consciousness. Sri Aurobindo called in the “supramental” consciousness, which is basically a descriptive term for the next level of awareness beyond the human mental capabilities. This new consciousness will refashion both our physical bodies and our mental capabilities into a new integrated and harmonious structure.
Once we recognise the ongoing evolutionary urge of life, and the nature of the present evolutionary process, it becomes clear that a new being must evolve beyond the human. This being will have capacities as far beyond the human as the human has capacities beyond the animal.
In The Mind of Light, Sri Aurobindo gives us both the conditions for these changes, and the likely direction these changes will take. The book is a guide to the future evolution of consciousness and gives all those who aspire for something more luminous and harmonious a clear indication of the value and goal of their efforts.
The primary text of the U.S. edition of The Mind of Light, excluding the Introduction by Robert McDermott and the first chapter The Teaching of Sri Aurobindo, has been published by the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in India under the title The Supramental Manifestation on Earth.
Sri Aurobindo, The Mind of Light, Introduction
Sri Aurobindo Studies 