enlightenment

(ĕn-lītˈn-mənt)

1. a. The act or a means of enlightening.
   b. The state of being enlightened.
2. Enlightenment A philosophical movement of the 18th century that emphasized the use of reason to scrutinize previously accepted doctrines and traditions and that brought about many humanitarian reforms. Used with the.
3. Buddhism & Hinduism A blessed state in which the individual transcends desire and suffering and attains Nirvana.