Miscellaneous - Religion   

Source of Knowledge

CHENNAI: True Jnana initiates the enquiry into one’s spiritual identity. The lives of saints and realised souls illustrate the truth that the spiritual path is full of challenges. Spiritual progress requires tremendous effort in terms of self control, both in the physical and the mental levels. For those caught in this world of Samsara, scriptures recommend the two paths, namely Pravritti (characterised by social action, Karma) and Nivritti (meditation and Jnana). In other words the two options are that of living the life of a householder or that of hermit or sanyasi. The former implies involvement in worldly activities and duties, while the latter implies renunciation of such a worldly life in preference to acquiring spiritual knowledge through meditation and spiritual practices. Though the Pravritti Marga does not prevent one from seeking spiritual growth while being engaged in actions to earn one’s livelihood, it calls for commitment and dedication.

Jnana is ever present in an unmanifested form as in a seed and great souls are born time and again to reveal this subtle knowledge to humanity and keep the spiritual flow alive, said Nochur Sri S. Venkataraman in a lecture. The source of knowledge remains hidden only to be manifested through the teachings and revelations of great preceptors.

What is appealing to the intellect is imparted in the form of an experience so that inner realisation takes place and Sri Ramana Maharshi touched the spiritual chord in many unique ways. He lived as the very embodiment of Jnana and was able to give precise answers to the spiritual doubts that arose in many devotees through his silent way of communication. In his divine perception, the source from where the question arises also has the answer.

Adi Sankara extols this two-fold nature of Vedic dharma (religion) for its efficacy in promoting order in the world with the aim of taking care of both the social welfare and spiritual emancipation of all beings.

It is seen that despite acquiring much knowledge in matters of the world, there is restlessness and a constant search for something higher in many individuals. This echoes the inner longing for true knowledge that is gained within one’s inner self.

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