Faith Knowledge and Conduct

Author(s): Champat Rai Jain
Publisher: Champat Rai Jain

Page 67

58
This is how memories are preserved and how recollection is effected.
FAITH KNOWLEDGE AND CONDUCT
6
Impulses are formed when the penetration of matter is somewhat deeper than in mere perception. In perception the state of consciousness is only cognitive, not appreciative. It only knows the nature of the object in the world outside, whether it is black or white, hard or soft, sweet or sour and the like. It has not yet proceeded to taste or enjoy its relish. But when it goes a step further, and lays itself open to the incoming stimulus more completely, then it is able to ascertain whether its actual experience is pleasurable or painful. It then says such things as I like this,' I do not like this,' and the like. In different language, in perception the external stimulus simply knocks at the door of consciousness; in enjoyment or experience it is admitted further inside. In the one case the contact is merely on the surface; it is more intimate in the other. Now if the sensation is an agreeable one and the soul frequently and passionately longs for it, a strong impulse will be formed in the mind, which will even survive death, unless destroyed by knowledge or eradicated by self-denying discipline.
Spirit and matter, then, coalesce to form an impulse; they do not do so when giving rise to perception or knowledge. Impulses are strengthened by gratification, which means the influx of more matter into the soul.