It is from this perspective that Sri Ramakrishna repeatedly tells us that the very purpose of human existence is to realise God.
As an illustration he tells the story of some friends going to the mango orchard and counting the trees, branches, and leaves, except the one among them who started eating the mangoes. He says: ‘You have come to the orchard to eat mangoes. Do that and be happy.’ As mango is the very essence of the tree and for the sake of that alone the trees are reared, so also God or divinity is the very essence of our personality, and the very purpose of human life is to attain that, which alone, in fact, makes life meaningful. A sincere attempt to attain that also makes life worth living.
The ancient Hindu teaching, "To make our life fulfilled, we have to live a meaningful life, an ideal life, going beyond the sense-bound existence," holds profound significance, both in its original spiritual context and in its relevance to modern-day life. Let’s explore the deeper meaning of this teaching, its symbolism, and how we can apply it practically today by looking at scriptures, stories, and similar teachings from other sources.
1. The Meaning of Sense-Bound Existence
In Hindu philosophy, "sense-bound existence" refers to a life driven purely by the pursuit of physical pleasures and material desires. When a person is attached to the sensory world—through the senses of taste, touch, sight, smell, and hearing—this leads to a shallow and temporary experience of happiness. This is because material pleasures are fleeting, and reliance on external circumstances for happiness often results in dissatisfaction or suffering.
In contrast, an ideal life or a meaningful life transcends these transient pleasures, seeking deeper fulfillment, wisdom, and spiritual growth. Hindu teachings encourage individuals to go beyond their sense perceptions and connect with their higher self (Atman), the universal spirit (Brahman), and a purpose that serves both the self and society.
2. Symbolism and Importance in Hindu Philosophy
The idea of going beyond sense-bound existence is central to Hindu teachings. It symbolizes the spiritual journey from avidya (ignorance) to vidya (knowledge), from bondage to liberation (moksha).
The Chariot Analogy from the Katha Upanishad: In this classic Upanishadic story, the human body is likened to a chariot. The senses are the horses, the mind is the reins, and the intellect is the charioteer. If the mind cannot control the senses, the chariot runs wild. However, when the charioteer (intellect) controls the mind and senses, the soul can progress on its journey toward liberation. This represents the need for mastery over one's desires to attain spiritual growth.
Bhagavad Gita: The Bhagavad Gita highlights the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to the fruits of action. Krishna tells Arjuna, "You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction" (BG 2.47). This detachment from the results of sensory or worldly actions is key to rising above a sense-bound existence.
3. Practicality in Day-to-Day Life
In today’s fast-paced world, where material success is often equated with happiness, this teaching is particularly relevant. Modern society often promotes consumerism, instant gratification, and pleasure-seeking. However, following the path of restraint and mindfulness, as outlined in ancient Hindu teachings, can bring more lasting peace and joy.
Here are some practical ways this teaching can be applied in daily life:
Mindful Consumption: Be conscious of how much time, energy, and resources are spent on sensory pleasures. Simplifying life and reducing attachment to material things can bring more mental clarity and contentment.
Selfless Service (Seva): Engage in actions that benefit others, without expecting anything in return. Acts of kindness and charity are ways to go beyond self-centered pursuits, as they fulfill a deeper sense of purpose.
Meditation and Yoga: Both practices help in mastering the mind and senses. Meditation leads to inner peace, while yoga connects the body and mind in a harmonious way, leading to balance and control over sensory desires.
Balanced Approach to Work and Life: The teaching of Karma Yoga from the Bhagavad Gita can be applied by dedicating one’s work to a higher cause rather than personal gain, balancing professional life with spiritual development.
4. Similar Teachings in Other Traditions
Buddhism: The Buddha's teaching on the Middle Way, which avoids the extremes of indulgence and asceticism, aligns with this idea. By transcending worldly desires and seeking the "Noble Eightfold Path," Buddhists aim to reach Nirvana, a state beyond suffering.
Stoicism (Western Philosophy): Stoic philosophers such as Marcus Aurelius taught the importance of focusing on what is within our control and accepting what is not. Stoicism, like Hindu philosophy, emphasizes restraint over desires and finding peace within oneself.
5. Stories from Hinduism Illustrating This Teaching
A simple story from Hinduism is the tale of King Janaka, known as the "philosopher-king" and a symbol of detachment. Although Janaka ruled a prosperous kingdom, he was a realized sage. He lived in the world, fulfilling his kingly duties, but remained unattached to worldly pleasures. This reflects the ideal of living an active, purposeful life while transcending the sensory allure of material existence.
Another example is the story of Narada and Vishnu: Narada, the celestial sage, was proud of his devotion to Lord Vishnu. Vishnu, wanting to teach Narada a lesson, asked him to carry a pot of oil around a village without spilling a drop. Narada focused so intensely on the task that he forgot to chant Vishnu's name. Vishnu then asked Narada if he remembered Him while carrying the pot. The lesson Vishnu imparted was that worldly duties can be done efficiently, but one should never forget the higher goal—spiritual awareness—even while engaged in worldly activities. This story teaches balance and focus on inner purpose while living in the material world.
6. Additional Quotes from Hindu Scriptures
From the Mundaka Upanishad: "Two birds, inseparable companions, perch on the same tree. One eats the sweet and sour fruits of the tree, while the other looks on without eating." This symbolizes the soul (which is immersed in the world) and the higher self (which remains untouched by worldly pleasures).
From the Bhagavad Gita: "The senses are superior to the body, the mind is superior to the senses, the intellect is superior to the mind, and the Self is superior to the intellect" (BG 3.42). This hierarchy encourages us to rise above sensory experiences and focus on the highest aspect of our being—the Self.
7. Modern Day Relevance
In a world filled with distractions—social media, advertising, consumerism—people are more prone to live sense-bound lives. But more than ever, the pursuit of meaningful living, mindfulness, and spiritual awareness is necessary. Happiness based purely on external factors is often short-lived, but living with purpose, integrity, and mindfulness creates lasting contentment.
- Mental Health Benefits: Research today shows that living a purpose-driven life improves mental health, reduces stress, and increases well-being. Mindfulness and yoga, which are rooted in Hindu philosophy, are widely accepted as tools to help people navigate the challenges of modern life with grace and inner peace.
Conclusion
The ancient Hindu teaching about going beyond sense-bound existence is timeless. It teaches us to seek a higher purpose and find fulfillment by focusing on spiritual growth and service rather than sensory gratification. In the modern world, with its constant bombardment of materialistic pursuits, the wisdom of Hindu philosophy offers a path to inner peace, fulfillment, and a life well-lived. As Swami Vivekananda famously said, “Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached.” This message encourages us to keep striving for a meaningful, ideal life that transcends mere sensory pleasures, and instead, focuses on a higher spiritual goal.