Expansion on Bhagavad Gita’s Teaching: “What We Become Is Decided By Our Faith And Conviction”
The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hinduism, delves deeply into the nature of human existence, the purpose of life, and the path to spiritual liberation. The quote "Yo yat sraddhah sa eva sah" (Gita 17.3) translates to "Whatever is one’s firm faith and conviction, that one becomes." This teaching underscores the transformative power of faith and belief, reflecting the idea that what we hold in our hearts and minds ultimately shapes our identity and our destiny.
Symbolism and Meaning
In this teaching, "faith" (sraddha) is not merely religious belief but a firm conviction in a chosen path, be it spiritual, intellectual, or even worldly. It reflects the central idea in Hindu philosophy that our thoughts and attitudes determine our actions and, ultimately, our reality. The Gita highlights the importance of inner belief and devotion, which guides one’s journey through life and becomes a powerful force in shaping one’s character and fate.
Importance of Faith and Conviction in Hinduism
Faith (sraddha) and conviction (nishta) are cornerstones of spiritual growth in Hinduism. Without a clear sense of purpose or trust in the path one follows, spiritual progress becomes impossible. Whether through karma yoga (the path of selfless action), jnana yoga (the path of knowledge), or bhakti yoga (the path of devotion), the individual's attitude of faith drives them forward. Faith provides the mental focus necessary to overcome distractions, doubts, and obstacles on the path to self-realization.
Practicality in Day-to-Day Life
In practical terms, this teaching from the Gita suggests that the things we are most committed to in our day-to-day life—whether they be personal growth, material success, or spiritual goals—will eventually define who we are. Our choices, shaped by our deepest beliefs, mold our personality and character. This can be applied to modern life through various examples:
Work and Career: If we work with dedication and faith in the value of what we do, we naturally align ourselves with success. But if we doubt ourselves or engage in tasks without genuine commitment, the results are often unsatisfactory. The lesson here is that strong conviction in one’s abilities and goals paves the way for achievement.
Relationships: In personal relationships, the quality of our bond with others is determined by our sincerity and the faith we place in those relationships. A relationship driven by deep faith, trust, and commitment becomes strong and fulfilling.
Spiritual Practice: In spirituality, whether one practices meditation, devotion, or selfless service, what matters is sustained effort and faith in the process. Doubt hampers progress, while conviction enables transformation.
Similar Examples from Hindu Scriptures
This idea is echoed throughout Hindu philosophy. For instance, in the Upanishads, it is stated:
- "Yad bhavam tad bhavati" – "As is your belief, so shall you become."
This is the principle of self-creation: our mental state and inner belief system manifest as our external reality.
Additionally, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali emphasize the need for faith (sraddha) as a critical factor in attaining success in yoga. Without faith, one's practice lacks the intensity needed to overcome the obstacles along the spiritual path.
Modern-Day Relevance
In the modern world, where we are often bombarded with conflicting messages and a range of distractions, the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings on faith and conviction remain highly relevant. A few areas where this teaching is significant include:
Mental Health: In psychological terms, this teaching resembles the principle of positive thinking. By cultivating a mindset of confidence, optimism, and determination, individuals can overcome challenges such as self-doubt and anxiety.
Goal Setting and Achievement: Modern self-help philosophies often emphasize having a clear vision and firm belief in one's goals. This is rooted in the same wisdom that is espoused in the Gita—what we focus on with conviction becomes our reality.
Mindfulness and Yoga: Today, mindfulness practices are gaining popularity, and they align perfectly with the Gita's teaching on controlling the mind. By withdrawing attention from distractions and focusing on the One—whether that’s through meditation, yoga, or prayer—individuals can bring their minds into harmony with their goals and values.
Ladder of Yoga and Mind Control
The Gita also offers a profound understanding of yoga as a ladder to higher consciousness. The first step on this ladder is the withdrawal from the many distractions of life and concentrating on the One—the Divine, or the Self. Faith plays a crucial role here as well. Only with faith can one commit to the discipline required to control the mind and advance spiritually.
Another key aspect is the balance between practice and detachment. The Gita mentions that the mind can be controlled through abhyasa (consistent practice) and vairagya (detachment). This applies not only in spiritual matters but also in worldly pursuits—success in any field requires steady effort coupled with non-attachment to immediate results.
Additional Thoughts and Reflections
One of the most profound lessons in this teaching is that our inner world—our beliefs and convictions—holds immense power in shaping our external reality. In a world where people often seek external validation or fulfillment from outside sources, the Gita reminds us that transformation is an inside job.
The Bhagavad Gita also introduces the idea that faith transcends mere religious adherence—it is not about dogma but about aligning ourselves with the deepest truths of our existence, whatever those might be for each individual.
Other Quotes on the Power of Faith from Hindu Texts:
"Shraddhavan labhate jnanam" – "One who has faith gains knowledge." (Bhagavad Gita 4.39)
"A person is what his shraddha (faith) is." (Bhagavad Gita 17.3)
Faith is not blind belief; it is a sense of confidence in one’s path and purpose, and it empowers both spiritual seekers and those engaged in worldly duties.
In conclusion, the teaching from the Bhagavad Gita about becoming what we hold in faith and conviction is a timeless piece of wisdom. It teaches us that true transformation begins within, driven by what we believe and dedicate ourselves to. By applying this teaching in everyday life—whether in our careers, relationships, or spiritual practice—we can direct our energies toward meaningful growth and fulfillment. Through faith and conviction, we can shape our destiny, and as the Gita teaches, ascend the ladder of self-realization, one step at a time.
Additional Thoughts:
- To withdraw from the many and concentration on the One
- Have a controlled mind.
Bhagavad Gita