Miscellaneous - Religion   

Process of meditation

CHENNAI: The systematic teaching of the scriptures is synoptically presented in the Bhagavad Gita providing a worldview regarding an individual’s role in society and his duties to himself while also pursuing the ultimate aim of life which is to realise the Self. Though the context in which this teaching took place is the war field as an answer to Arjuna’s dilemma, the instruction is applicable to all beings caught in the doubts and tensions of Samsara, pointed out Swami Omkarananda in a lecture. The Lord imparts the fundamental knowledge of the dichotomy between the body and the subtle Self. Unless one is freed from the delusion (that the Self is only the body and not the Atma) surrounding the status and nature of the Self, there can be no realisation.

The Lord teaches the practice of meditation as a first step to understand the spiritual nature within oneself and all objects of creation. He explains that while the body is subject to change and eventually dies, the Self is immortal and changeless.

Reflecting on the philosophical truths contained in the scriptures can help one to gain Atma Jnana. Self introspection has the power to enlighten because in this process of meditation one begins to focus on the inner soul that abides within the physical frame.

The role played by the mind in directing an individual’s thought, word and action is emphasised. The same mind that can lead to outward objects very easily has to be kept under control by meditation and directed inwards. True renunciation is when one does not hanker for self gain or material joys in one’s inner being. These are the binding fetters that have to be shaken off.

It requires tremendous effort on our part to be single minded and be able to direct our minds towards this steady path. Meditation is the ability to think about something very deeply, constantly and steadily.

The process of meditation should finally lead to this state of true renunciation which is the prerogative of the realised soul. Meditation steers one away from the powerful sway of delusion and is an inner event when one is able to worship God in a personal manner with no display of ostentation.

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