The Hindu philosophy teaches that at the core of our being, we are permanent. This teaching can be understood through the concept of the eternal soul, or Atman. According to Hinduism, every living being has an Atman, which is unchanging and eternal. While our physical bodies and experiences are transient, the Atman remains constant.
We All Yearn for Permanence
Human beings naturally seek stability, security, and a sense of continuity. This yearning is evident in our pursuit of lasting relationships, enduring achievements, and an overall desire for a legacy that outlives us. This longing for permanence can be attributed to our intrinsic nature, which, according to Hindu philosophy, is rooted in the eternal.
Without Realizing We Are Permanent
Despite our quest for permanence, many of us fail to recognize that we already possess an eternal aspect. The Atman, our true self, is indestructible and everlasting. This core teaching of Hinduism is captured in the Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna explains to Arjuna that the soul neither births nor dies; it simply exists.
Misidentification with the Temporary
The source of our confusion lies in our identification with the temporary aspects of existence—our bodies, emotions, and material possessions. These aspects are subject to change and decay, which leads to anxiety and suffering when we cling to them as our identity. The Hindu teachings encourage us to shift our focus from these transient elements to the Atman.
The Journey to Self-Realization
Realizing our true, eternal nature is a central goal in Hindu spiritual practice. Through various paths such as Karma Yoga (the path of action), Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion), Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge), and Raja Yoga (the path of meditation), individuals can cultivate an awareness of their eternal self.
- Karma Yoga emphasizes selfless action and serving others without attachment to the outcomes.
- Bhakti Yoga involves devotion and surrender to a higher power, nurturing a personal relationship with the divine.
- Jnana Yoga focuses on acquiring and contemplating spiritual knowledge, leading to the discernment of the real from the unreal.
- Raja Yoga includes practices like meditation and discipline to quiet the mind and experience the truth of the Atman directly.
The Wisdom of Permanence
Embracing the understanding that we are permanent at our core transforms our approach to life. It brings a sense of peace and detachment, allowing us to navigate the ups and downs of existence with equanimity. It encourages us to live in harmony with our true nature, fostering a sense of unity with all beings and the universe.
In summary, Hinduism teaches that our yearning for permanence is a reflection of our true nature. The realization of our inherent permanence through the Atman is the key to spiritual fulfillment and liberation. By aligning our lives with this eternal truth, we can transcend the illusions of the transient world and experience a deeper, more abiding peace.