Spirituality is a topic that many talk about, but few truly grasp its deeper meaning. It is often mistaken for vague concepts, rituals, or simply a way to attain peace of mind. While peace may be one of its outcomes, spirituality goes far beyond that—it’s about discovering the essence of who we truly are.

Most people define themselves through external factors: their name, profession, possessions, or societal roles. Yet, spirituality challenges this surface-level identification. It is the process of realizing that we are more than our bodies, minds, or material belongings. At the core, we are pure consciousness. Spirituality is the journey toward understanding this truth, often referred to as the spiritual path.

A person’s spiritual awakening often begins when they recognize the impermanence of the world around them. The fleeting nature of life’s pleasures and possessions triggers a deeper search for meaning. This quest usually leads individuals to seek guidance from spiritual teachers, read scriptures, or even explore modern resources like books and videos. Personally, my journey began when I experienced the loss of a loved one. The question of life’s transience consumed my thoughts, and it set me on a path of seeking answers beyond the physical world. Along the way, I’ve found immense joy in sharing what I’ve learned because I believe it helps others.

Spirituality is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Different individuals have different temperaments, and accordingly, there are numerous spiritual paths. Religions, too, offer diverse routes based on the teachings of enlightened beings. However, the central idea remains the same across all traditions: to purify the mind. When the mind becomes still—like a calm, clear lake—our true nature, or higher self, can be seen. Importantly, spirituality is for both believers in God and those who may not believe in a divine presence. What matters is the belief in one’s own existence, and that’s where the journey starts.

A common misconception is that spiritual people lose interest in worldly pleasures and the joys of life. This is far from the truth. A spiritual seeker doesn’t reject life’s experiences but refines their understanding of what true fulfillment is. They are ambitious, not for temporary pleasures but for something that lasts. Their aim is not superficial joys but treasures that bring lasting happiness. To achieve this, they often willingly give up short-term gratifications, recognizing that these small pleasures can become distractions. However, this renunciation is not out of bitterness or denial—it comes from a focus on the ultimate goal.

In essence, spirituality is the pursuit of a deeper connection with oneself, moving beyond the physical and mental aspects of life to discover the eternal consciousness within. It is a personal and transformative journey that leads to lasting peace, joy, and a clearer understanding of the self.

Quote of the week

Spiritual Wisdom

Rituals hold an important place in spirituality, but they cannot substitute for the deeper work of purifying the mind, which is achieved through practices like meditation. While rituals serve as a form of discipline, helping the mind follow a routine and preventing it from wandering, they are only a foundational step. As we progress on the spiritual path, we must eventually move beyond them to cultivate deeper inner focus.

I recommend...

YouTube video - Dissolution Of The Mind By Swami Sarvapriyananda (80 mins video)

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Book - Jnana Yoga (Gyan Yoga) by Swami Vivekananda

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