Since ancient times, wise men have written about moksha – the process of enlightenment. The Hindu texts, starting with the Rig Veda, are the oldest known records of moksha, a Sanskrit term meaning ‘liberation’ of mind.
The term ‘enlightenment’ or ‘awakening,’ is often misunderstood today. Wikipedia classes enlightenment as the ‘full understanding of a situation.’ This is not wrong, but only identifies the steps one needs to take to achieve fill moksha – the complete liberation of the mind which releases us from the cycle of death and rebirth (samsara).
All ancient cultures explain the journey of the soul reincarnates until our consciousness evolves to a state of complete awareness. The historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama drew from his understanding of Hindu texts to explain that attaining Nirvana is the way to end suffering.
It is an unfortunate case that the vast majority of people in modern times live in a state of delusion. The subconscious mind is programmed in such a way that what we see in the world, and ourselves, in a false light. And this false reality is what causes suffering.
When we are born into the world, our innocence is victimised and we become wanton with desire and attachment. This is the natural process of life. The challenge human beings face is to awaken to this false reality and find the path that leads you back to a state of pure consciousness, love and compassion.
Advaita Vedanta
There are many paths to moksha. Hindus recognise this and are tolerant of other religions. There are also many means of liberation within the Hindu traditions; ancient texts, philosophical systems, sacred rituals and yoga. A combination of these can also be used to free the soul from Samsara.
The oldest school of vedanta is Advaita which rejects ritual in favour of philosophical concepts. Initiates relate to the inner world or Self, atman, and recognise a connection with the Whole, Brahman. Ancient Sanskrit writers explain that Brahman is the source of all life and is in all life.
Advaita Vedanta is widely regarded as the most influential practice throughout the Hindu community. The underlying principle is that recognition of the Self through self-observation leads to moksha.
Every day is an opportunity to learn something about yourself. Although the awakening process is a long, and sometimes torturous journey, an awareness of one’s weaknesses is the only way to improve your experience of life – even if it is little by little.
The Yogic philosophies
The post vedanta era began in the 19th Century when the revered Swami Vivekananda spread the secret teachings of Hinduism in the West. Vivekananda is credited with popularising meditation and yoga as a means to identify with the Universal Mind, that in essence is absolute consciousness.
Yoga is widely regarded as the prime means to reach moksha. The Sanskrit word means ‘union’ (of body and mind) and although the practice of yoga has been bastardised in some parts of the world, when applied as a physical, mental and spiritual discipline, delivers numerous health benefits both physically and mentally.
Yoga is not intended to be a part-time exercise as it is generally perceived in the West. It is a way of life that integrates with spiritual teachings provided by sacred Hindu scriptures. The so-called father of modern Yoga, T. Krishnamacharya said:
“In the practice of Yoga one can emphasize the body, the mind or the self and hence the effort can never be fruitless.”
What types of yoga are best for moksha?
Yoga is split into several subdivisions that define the practice. Hatha yoga is recognised as a powerful method to strengthen body and mind. During the exercise practice, participants are tasked to hold the position for a lengthy period. This puts strain on the muscles, but by fighting the pain barrier, you feel no pain. This is a form of moksha described today as ‘mind over matter.’
Experienced practitioners of hatha yoga eventually train their mind to transcend the physical plane with ease. This is how men and women walk over hot coals without feeling any pain or burning the soles of their feet. It is only when the mind feels pain that the marks physically bear the impact of scorching coals.
Bhakti and karma yoga are also practiced widely, but neither will lead you directly to moksha. Rather they are a form of indoctrination that enables you to acquire knowledge (jnana) and carry out your correct duties for the good of others (dharma).
However, it is through selfless service that initiates purify the heart and mind. This yogic practice enables people to learn that they do not need ego or worldly attachments to be happy and at peace with themselves. All they need is to attain self-knowledge and understand the true nature of man.
Sacred texts
Everything you need to know about your true nature can be found in the myths of Hindu literature. However, knowledge of the ‘Truth’ is only discovered when initiates unravel the mystery hidden behind the symbolism and successfully relate the teachings to their own experience.
Understanding symbolism enables one to attain moksha quickly. The subconscious communicates with us on a daily basis, but because it speaks in metaphor and symbolism, an understanding of the esoteric symbolism created by the ancient mystery schools is required.
The old sages were great observers of nature. They also understood that man is nature, is intrinsically connected with nature and essentially ruled by nature. Live by the Natural Laws of the Universe and the atman connects to Brahman.
Once you fully understand your true nature and reach full enlightenment, you see the Truth in every situation. Along the path, your powers of sensory perception in the astral planes will become enhanced and you can acquire knowledge about yourself and others that can be used to heal.
Most people don’t reach full enlightenment. But now that consciousness is expanding, there is more potential for people to find inner peace. With dedicated practice of yoga and an understanding of esoteric symbolism, you invite harmony into your life everyday.