SPIRITUALITY

Hindu philosophy

Navdeep Kumar . Roll no-101004045

Introduction Closely related to absolute values, ultimate purpose

and final truths about life and nature. Knowledge that cant be obtained by ordinary rational

and logical process Unknowable mysteries metaphysics level. Spiritual aspirants. Religious links Humanistic view It raises ques like- whats the ultimate meaning and

purpose of life? What is true nature of self? Relationship between individual self and external realities?

Search for self knowledge and deeper understanding of universal truth and values.

Spiritual wisdom of Upanishads nature of human self in three dimensions Body- subjected to laws of nature, born grow

decay and dies, all external activities are performed, most clear recognizable aspect of separate individualistic existence

Mind( or antahkaran)- give direction to senses both organs of action and organs of knowledge- perception- psychological self- collectively shape character, personality and individuality.

Spirit or soul or ataman- experiencer of all experiences

Analogy of Chariotreference from Kathaupanishad

PanchkoshReferred from taittiriya upanishad

Human soul covered by 5 sheaths which constitute a hierarchy level of existence-

annamai kosh paranmai kosh manomai kosh vighyanmai kosh aanandmai kosh

Philosophy of Vedanta Three basic entities of life- Brahman, jeev and jagata-

philosophy of vedanta Discovery of truth- inner reality ataman and outer

reality brahman are the same Nature of ultimate reality- satta, chita, aananda-

central theme of Vedantic view of life. This is theoratical aspect of Vedanta Practical aspect- search for the ways of realization of

Brahman. Depending on ones capacity different ways/margs/yogas exist.

Ways of realization of Brahman

4 prominent ways or yogas are- Gyanyoga or way of knowledge- gyan, agyan,anubhuti,

chitshudhi, dhayan Raj yoga- ashtangyoga or eightfold path of pitanjali Karam yoga or path of action- propounded by Bhagvadgita.

It demands we dissocites ourselves from the fruits of our actions.

Bhakti yoga or path of devotion- all activities inspired by love of god(saguna brahman).

Values associated… Values which characterize the personality of a spirituallyenlightened person or values of human perfection are- Self-fulfillment or purntava or spiritual autonomy-

kahu so kuchna chahonguo (tulsi) Egolessness- no vices greed, anger, jeolosy, hatred Complete freedom- from dualities, conflicts and

sufferings of life. Universal and unconditional love- radiate love,

concern for others, sharing, caring- abhaya

Critique of Tradition Spirituality Spirituality gives answer to the problems of human

sufferings. It is because of avidya i.e. ignorance of real self and external reality.

Spiritual attainment demands transcendence. Final goal is attainment of the state of moksha. Regarding spiritual values they deny, even decry, the normal human urges of material comfort, earthly enjoyment and zest for life. They are treated as road blocks to spiritual progress.

Traditional spirituality is highly individualistic. life of the community has to be renounced. There is little sense of social responsibility or the obligation to work for the common good.

Spiritual goal of moksha or nirvana is so lofty, path to it is so rigorous, rarely any individuals with superhuman capacity achieves it.

The narrow understanding of oneself, leading to egoity and self-centered outlook to life is perhaps the greatest bane of modern times. spiritual understanding makes us realize that our individual self is deeply connected to and is a part of, a large whole. Ethical virtues like concern for others, humility, etc flow out of psycho-spiritual egolessness.

A deeper understanding of spirituality and spiritual values should be a great help in managing such conflicts at workspace and in society.

Thank you