Self-realization Is The Goal Of Life

Sensory enjoyments, satisfying ego, prestige, power and popularity are the goals for majority of us. However, in reality they open the gates of sorrow and misery. These are never ending goals. As there is no satisfaction. You crave for more. There is no end to the external cravings.

Our goals change when we are able to clearly understand real and unreal.

True happiness is not in the external. It is in the internal. When the internal is understood in its clearest and profoundest manner, we begin the journey of Self Realization.

Expansion of our spiritual dimension takes place not only through the exercise of intellect but also through purifying, training and refining the mind.

Self-realization is the goal of human life.

Self-realization is not to found in caves or distant mountains. It has to be achieved while performing our karma by following Dharma.

Ignorance and fear are the two main impediments in the path of self realization.

They can be overcome only through proper understanding of our real nature.

Self-Realization Is the Goal of Life in Hinduism

Self-realization, known as Atman Jnana or Brahma Jnana in Hinduism, is considered the ultimate goal of human life. It is the process of understanding one's true nature and identity as the Atman, which is the individual soul that is ultimately indistinguishable from Brahman, the Supreme Reality or Cosmic Consciousness. This realization goes beyond intellectual understanding; it is a profound spiritual experience that brings liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).

Additional Information

1. Scriptural Foundations: The concept of self-realization is rooted in the sacred texts of Hinduism, including the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and the Vedas. These texts emphasize that the self (Atman) is eternal, immutable, and beyond the physical and mental limitations of human existence. The Chandogya Upanishad declares, "Tat Tvam Asi" (That Thou Art), indicating the non-dualistic nature of reality where the individual soul and the Supreme are one.

2. Pathways to Self-Realization: Hinduism offers multiple paths to achieve self-realization, catering to different temperaments and life situations:

   • Jnana Yoga: The path of knowledge and wisdom, which involves deep inquiry into the nature of the self and meditation on the truth that "I am Brahman."
   • Bhakti Yoga: The path of devotion and love towards a personal god or the divine, surrendering oneself completely to the divine will.
   • Karma Yoga: The path of selfless action, where one performs duties without attachment to the results, thus purifying the mind and leading to self-realization.
   • Raja Yoga: The path of meditation and discipline, involving practices like asanas, pranayama, and meditation to control the mind and realize the self.

3. Spiritual Practices: Practices such as meditation (dhyana), self-inquiry (atma-vichara), chanting (japa), and ritual worship (puja) are tools to aid in the journey toward self-realization. The process often involves detaching from egoic desires, identifying with the eternal self, and recognizing the illusory nature of the material world (Maya).

Importance of Self-Realization

1. Liberation (Moksha): Self-realization leads to moksha, the liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. It is the cessation of suffering and the realization of eternal bliss (ananda).
2. Inner Peace and Fulfillment: Realizing one’s true nature brings about profound inner peace and a sense of fulfillment that is not dependent on external circumstances. The person experiences a state of equanimity and joy.
3. Removal of Ignorance (Avidya): Ignorance of one’s true self is considered the root cause of all suffering. Self-realization removes this ignorance and allows one to live in alignment with their divine nature.

Symbolism in Hinduism

1. Lotus Flower: In Hinduism, the lotus flower often symbolizes self-realization. It grows in muddy water but blooms above the surface, untouched by impurities, signifying the potential for humans to transcend their earthly existence and realize their divine nature.
2. Third Eye: The third eye, often depicted on the forehead of deities like Shiva, symbolizes spiritual awakening and the vision of truth that comes with self-realization.
3. Rivers and Oceans: The merging of rivers into the ocean is a common metaphor for the individual soul (jiva) realizing its unity with the cosmic consciousness (Brahman).

Modern-Day Relevance

1. Psychological Well-being: In the modern world, self-realization can be associated with psychological concepts like self-actualization and self-awareness. These concepts emphasize the importance of understanding one's purpose and aligning one's actions with one's deeper values.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation, which are widely popular in contemporary society, have roots in Hindu practices aimed at self-realization. These practices are used today to reduce stress, improve mental health, and promote overall well-being.
3. Spiritual Growth: In an era where material success is often equated with fulfillment, the Hindu idea of self-realization reminds people of the importance of spiritual growth and inner fulfillment beyond material achievements.

Lesser-Known Facts

1. Different Interpretations: Within Hinduism, there are varying interpretations of self-realization. For example, in Advaita Vedanta, self-realization is the recognition that one's self (Atman) is non-different from Brahman. In contrast, Dvaita Vedanta emphasizes a dualistic approach where self-realization is about realizing the individual soul's distinct nature and its relationship with the Supreme.
2. Role in Indian Philosophy and Culture: The pursuit of self-realization has been central to various philosophical schools and has influenced Indian arts, culture, and literature. The theme of self-discovery is prevalent in classical Indian music, dance, and literature, highlighting the journey of the self toward the divine.
3. Historical Examples: Many saints and sages, such as Ramana Maharshi, Swami Vivekananda, and Sri Ramakrishna, have exemplified self-realization and have inspired millions through their teachings and lives.

Similar Concepts in Other Traditions

1. Enlightenment in Buddhism: Similar to self-realization in Hinduism, Nirvana in Buddhism represents the ultimate state of liberation and freedom from the cycle of birth and death. However, unlike Hinduism, Buddhism does not focus on the concept of a permanent self (Atman).
2. Self-Actualization in Psychology: In psychology, self-actualization (a term popularized by Abraham Maslow) refers to the realization of an individual's potential and the fulfillment of their abilities and talents, which resonates with the Hindu concept of realizing one’s higher self.
3. Mysticism in Sufism: In Sufism, a mystical dimension of Islam, the concept of self-realization is akin to realizing one's oneness with God (Tawhid) through inner purification and spiritual practices, similar to Bhakti Yoga in Hinduism.

Self-realization remains a profound and timeless goal in Hindu philosophy, offering a path to understanding one’s true essence beyond the ephemeral nature of worldly existence. Its teachings and practices continue to inspire individuals across the world, providing a framework for personal and spiritual growth that is relevant even in modern times.