Yoga is the relation between the guru and the disciple. This relationship seeks new challenges, new paths and new horizons, creating an ever renewing confidence in the Self. You are the guru and you are the disciple. This duality is within you. The sense of enquiry and devotion is the discipleship, and the intensity towards the Divine is the guru.
Because of old religious prejudices, for centuries we have looked down and condemned the physical body as an enemy, and as a heavy liability. We have neglected the growth of the potential which is in us. The body as it is now is pampered and misused. True, the body with it's unruly desires and passions has posed problems. But the same body if taken into confidence and spoken to, could be developed as a sensitive instrument for the holistic growth. In fact the ‘Hatha’ and ‘Tantra’ Yogas know and utilize the body with it's passions as an asset and sublimate these energies for spiritual powers and siddhis. A purified body is a new vehicle for unknown energy paths.
This passage delves into the historical and cultural
perspectives on the human body, particularly within the context of religious
beliefs and practices. It suggests that throughout history, certain religious
ideologies have viewed the physical body with disdain or as a hindrance to
spiritual growth. This negative perception has led to the neglect of the body's
potential and the mistreatment or disregard of its needs.
The text proposes an alternative viewpoint, emphasizing the
body as a valuable asset rather than a liability. It suggests that by
understanding and embracing the body's nature, including its desires and
passions, individuals can harness its potential for personal development and
spiritual advancement.
Specifically, it references traditions such as Hatha and
Tantra Yoga, which recognize the body's role in spiritual practice and seek to
channel its energies in constructive ways. These practices aim to purify the
body and transform its energies, using techniques such as breath control,
physical postures, and meditation to cultivate spiritual powers and attain
higher states of consciousness.
Overall, the passage advocates for a more holistic approach
to the body, one that acknowledges its importance in the journey towards
spiritual enlightenment and seeks to integrate physical well-being with
spiritual growth. It suggests that by nurturing a respectful and symbiotic
relationship with the body, individuals can unlock new pathways to inner
transformation and self-realization.
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That's a beautiful perspective! It speaks to the idea that
within each individual, there exists both the seeker and the source of wisdom.
Let's break it down a bit:
The Guru Within: This refers to the inner wisdom or
intuition that guides us. It's the part of ourselves that knows the truth, that
is connected to something greater than ourselves. The guru within is the source
of insight, clarity, and guidance.
The Disciple Within: This represents our capacity for
learning, growth, and openness. It's the part of ourselves that seeks
knowledge, that is humble and willing to learn from others and from experience.
The disciple within is curious, eager to explore, and devoted to the journey of
self-discovery and understanding.
When we recognize and honor both the guru and the disciple
within ourselves, we embrace a holistic approach to personal and spiritual
development. We acknowledge our own inner wisdom while also remaining open to
learning from others and from the world around us. This duality within us
fosters a balanced and harmonious relationship with ourselves and with the
Divine.