The Quest for the True Self

 

On this amazing journey from the womb to the tomb, we all strive to live well and lead a happy and successful life. Majority of people consider 'God' as their provider and protector and worship deities of their own choice to seek blessings. But very few try to understand the truth that God is much more than the beautiful form we worship. He is the Supreme power that governs this universe and pervades it. He is seated in every living entity in the form of Paramatma - the cosmic power which resides deep in every individual soul. Thus spirituality is not just about connecting with the divine but also understanding our true nature and our relationship with the divine. 

The ancient sacred scriptures of our country, the Vedas and Upanishads, are a compilation of the divine experiences of the Rishis. They were completely immersed in their sadhana and many of them preferred not to reveal their names as they sought oneness with the divine.  Their goal was to impart knowledge of the divine to humankind without any sense of proprietorship. 

While the majority of population strives to acquire wealth and enjoy material pleasures, a spiritual seeker realizes that this human life is a gift which needs to be utilized for understanding the magnificence of creation. The true purpose of life is to know the creator, connect with Him, develop qualities in oneself akin to the divine and ultimately go back to Him. 

The greatest gift humankind has received is the gift of 'conscience'. It is our God-given ability to think, rationalize, discriminate and act righteously. These abilities set us apart from the other life forms on Earth. If this conscience is utilized for the betterment of self and welfare of others, then the world can truly become a magical place to live in. Every word, every thought and every action done correctly can bring us closer to the Divine and rekindle the divinity within each one of us. 

However, when we consider the challenges that life throws at us, this is easier said than done. But if we are determined to take this path, then the way begins to appear. Life is a series of experiences that is meant to mend us, awaken us and help us listen to the inner voice, the voice of our true self. It is important to realize that every experience good and bad is a part of growth and never a hindrance. Once we embark on the spiritual journey we will learn that every bitter experience is a catalyst that will transform us from within and bring us closer to the divine. 

Spirituality is not meant only for those nearing the end of their lives. It is meant for everyone who wishes to live a meaningful and enriching life, imbibing the qualities of kindness, compassion, patience, perseverance, selflessness, forgiveness and unconditional love. We can embrace the world that we live in as a manifestation of the divine only when we acknowledge the presence of the divine within us and connect with Him. Hence the ultimate quest in life should be the quest for the true self- the quest for the Divine. 

In verse 7.18 9of Bhagwad Gita, Bhagwan Shri Krishna says the following:

Bg. 7.18

उदारा: सर्व एवैते ज्ञानी त्वात्मैव मे मतम् ।

आस्थित: स हि युक्तात्मा मामेवानुत्तमां गतिम् ॥ १८ ॥

udārāḥ sarva evaite

jñānī tv ātmaiva me matam

āsthitaḥ sa hi yuktātmā

mām evānuttamāṁ gatim

Translation

All these devotees are undoubtedly magnanimous souls, but he who is situated in knowledge of Me I consider to be just like My own self. Being engaged in My transcendental service, he is sure to attain Me, the highest and most perfect goal.

Special thanks to my mentor : Prof Shalini R Pujari