The statement "We have made ourselves slaves of what we have created," though an ancient Hindu saying, resonates deeply with modern life, capturing the essence of humanity's relationship with its own creations. In Hindu philosophy, this idea reflects a warning about attachment and materialism, central concepts that are explored in various sacred texts. The statement can be expanded to shed light on how humanity has allowed the tools and systems it created—such as technology, wealth, and social structures—to dominate its life, often leading to a loss of spiritual focus.
Symbolism in Hinduism
In Hinduism, the concept of attachment (Maya) and desire (Kama) are viewed as illusions that bind human beings to the material world. The saying symbolizes the human tendency to become overly attached to things that, in essence, were created to serve a purpose. The idea is that while humanity is meant to control and utilize these creations, they often end up controlling us, diverting us from our spiritual goals.
The Hindu epic Mahabharata and the teachings of Bhagavad Gita also address this theme. In the Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duty without attachment to the results (Chapter 2, Verse 47):
"Karmanye vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kadachana, Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhurmatey Sangostva Akarmani."
This means: "You have the right to work, but never to its fruits. Let not the fruits of action be your motive, nor let your attachment be to inaction."
Here, Krishna emphasizes that attachment to the outcome of one’s work can enslave the mind, as the mind becomes focused on the reward rather than the work itself. The key to liberation is performing actions selflessly, without becoming a slave to the desire for results.
Similar Example: Technology and Modern Life
In modern times, the most relevant example of this ancient saying can be found in our relationship with technology. While technology was created to make life more convenient and efficient, it has led to a dependency that many people struggle to control. Smartphones, social media, and other digital innovations have become so intertwined with daily life that they often dominate it, detracting from real-life connections, peace of mind, and mental clarity.
People now often feel enslaved by their own devices, checking their phones obsessively, seeking validation through social media likes, and working relentlessly to keep up with fast-paced communication. As a result, many find themselves detached from nature, family, and even their own inner selves.
This relationship mirrors the spiritual struggle against attachment described in Hindu texts. Just as the mind can become enslaved by desires for wealth or status, so too can it become entangled in the digital tools we’ve designed.
Importance and Practicality in Day-to-Day Life
Understanding this saying in a practical sense encourages us to reflect on the things that control us in modern life. Are we slaves to money, technology, or societal expectations? By identifying these attachments, we can begin to loosen their grip, ultimately leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life. The Hindu path of detachment, or Vairagya, teaches that freedom comes from mastering one’s desires and not becoming bound by them.
For example, practicing mindfulness and setting boundaries in relation to technology—such as limiting screen time, practicing digital detoxes, or engaging in deep, in-person conversations—can help regain control and prevent technology from overtaking one’s life.
Additionally, the concept of Dharma (duty) can also be applied here. Performing one's duties with the right intention and without attachment can prevent us from becoming slaves to success, reputation, or ambition. By following our Dharma selflessly, we contribute positively to society while avoiding the pitfalls of becoming consumed by our own creations.
Simple Stories from Hinduism
One well-known story that reflects this principle is the tale of King Bharata, found in the Bhagavata Purana. Bharata was a wise and powerful king who, after ruling justly for many years, decided to renounce the world and dedicate his life to spiritual practice. However, in the forest, he became attached to a deer, and his mind was constantly preoccupied with it. When he died, his attachment to the deer led him to be reborn as a deer in his next life.
This story serves as a potent reminder that even something seemingly innocent, like caring for a living creature, can entangle the soul if the attachment becomes overpowering. The lesson is that detachment is crucial for spiritual progress.
Modern Day Relevance
In today's context, the idea that we have become "slaves to what we have created" is more relevant than ever, especially in an era dominated by consumerism and rapid technological advancement. The relentless pursuit of wealth, status, or technological convenience often leads to stress, anxiety, and a lack of peace.
Environmental concerns also arise from this principle. The world’s increasing consumption has led to the destruction of nature, climate change, and an imbalance in ecosystems. In this sense, humanity has become enslaved by its own material desires, having created a world where resources are over-exploited. The practice of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Simplicity (Aparigraha) advocated in Hinduism reminds us of the importance of living in harmony with nature and not overburdening ourselves with material possessions.
Additional Thoughts and Quotes
Hinduism also provides practical advice on how to live a life that avoids such enslavement:
The Upanishads teach that ultimate liberation, or Moksha, comes when we free ourselves from the cycle of birth and rebirth, which is driven by attachment to the material world.
A quote from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad captures this:
“From attachment arises sorrow, from attachment arises fear. He who is free from attachment has no sorrow, nor fear.”
This reinforces the idea that attachment to material things creates suffering. Only when we release ourselves from these attachments can we find true peace.
The saying "We have made ourselves slaves of what we have created" serves as a timeless reminder of the dangers of attachment and the importance of spiritual clarity. Whether it is through technology, wealth, or desires, we must always remain mindful that our creations should serve us, not control us. Drawing from ancient Hindu wisdom, modern-day individuals can find ways to balance the material and spiritual aspects of life, ensuring that they live with purpose, clarity, and freedom from the chains of their own making.
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