Jnana-yoga...

[Guest guest]

Hi, everyone...

 

A few comments (opinions) on the path of jnana, one that seems to be

somewhat "in competition" with bhakta these days. It seems that bhakti and

jnani don't tend to agree on much, at least on the level of mind/intellect.

Anyone else notice this? It's been something of an annoyance to me lately

which I'm attempting not to let become a distraction or an item that the

ego may make a grab at.

 

I would like to point out that Adi Sankara himself is generally considered

a jnani. Jnana is certainly not for everyone, and I will never allow

myself to get into the "My yoga is better than your yoga" game, but I would

like to point out the words of Swami Vivekananda, Sri Ramakrishna's primary

disciple:

 

"The path of Bhakti or devotion to God is a slow process, but is easy of

practice. In the path of yoga there are many obstacles; perhaps the mind

runs after psychic powers and thus draws you away from attaining your real

nature. Only the path of jnana is of quick fruition and the rationale of

all other creeds; hence it is equally esteemed in all countries and all

ages. But even in the path of discrimination there is the chance of the

mind getting stuck in the interminable net of vain argumentation.

Therefore along with it, meditation should be practiced. By means of

discrimination and meditation, the goal of Brahman has to be reached. One

is sure to reach the goal by practicing in this way. This, in my opinion,

is the easy path ensuring quick success. (7:198)

 

To me, Bhakti can be useful as a means of the practice of humility, which

is important for all... but those who do not practice at least *some*

discrimination, as Sri Sankara implored us to do, seem to me to be weak of

mind and weak of will, and looking for the "easy way out." They may attain

nirvikalpa samadhi after many years through this yoga only, but why not

pursue Truth with a burning desire for liberation? Why resort only to

surrender and devotion when we have been given a mind, and a purpose for

such a powerful instrument?

 

Just some food for thought,

 

Ayam Atma Brahman,

Tim

 

 

-----

The CORE of Reality awaits you at:

http://www.eskimo.com/~fewtch/ND/index.html -

Poetry, Writings, Live Chat on spiritual topics.