Q1. What is Achara, and what is Vichara. Are both required in our live Gita quest. In which order. Why do we need them?
Q2. In the contemporary era, with the accessibility of Google, Wiki, and AI, the question arises: is a spiritual guru indispensable for comprehending scriptures?
Q3. Why does Sri Krishna feel a need to explain to Arjuna that he has taught this Yoga earlier to his ancestors?
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Achara is the gross form of activity that one does with instruments of action (karmaendriyas) and Vichara is the subtle form of activity that one does using his mind. While Achara for most part is subjected to limitations by "desha kaala paristhithis" aka space(geography) and time limitation, there is absolutely no bounds or limits to how, where and when a vichar arises in us and hence lot more unpredictable, uncontrollable. This makes vicharas to be more dangerous and harmful to others and self too.
ReplyDeleteAchar ad Vichar are intertwined and invariably linked. As one guruji said in his pravachan – a spiritual person must be a moral person, but the converse is not necessarily true. Hence for us to progress in the journey, we need to start with creating an environment with in and without that helps the mind to focus on satvicharas. As most of us know, a seed will germinate and grow into a healthy sapling, only if the earth is prepared, has the right amount of moisture, heat and nutrients. Hence acharas are the incubators for vicharas – right incubator will help potentially lead to right acharas and lead us on to more full filling journey. All, said and done we need bhagvat krupa too.
Q2. In the current times with Google / Wiki / AI, is a spiritual guru needed to understand the scriptures
ReplyDeleteThis is the age of science and skepticism. Information is available everywhere. Hence the epistemology of this becomes very important. Else we are lost in the myriad of data presented. To gain mastery in any field a systematic study is essential. Google, wiki and AI can be used as tools of reference alone.
When it comes to scriptures the knowledge conveyed is the knowledge of Self and it is very subtle. Hence a Guru is much more needed to understand the scriptures. Advaita Vedanta’s approach to Self-knowledge is through Shravana, manana and nidhidhyasana.
In shravana, the student listens attentively as a competent Guru who is shrotriya and Brahmanishta reveals the teachings of the Upanishads.
During manana, through reflection, questioning and discussion with Guru one aims to dispel any vestiges of confusion. And with Nidhidhyasana one dwells on these teaching all the time.
Hence there is always a need of Spiritual Guru who can guide us right way since he has already walked through it.
Q1- Achara and Vichara intricately weave together, forming an essential fabric for the culmination of self-realization. Achara serves as a guiding force, providing a set of moral and ethical principles that establish the foundation for the yogic path. It delineates the dos and don'ts, creating a framework for virtuous living.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, Vichara is the introspective journey that delves into the profound understanding of oneself and the purpose of existence. It involves deep self-inquiry and contemplation, allowing individuals to explore the depths of their consciousness. Attempting Vichara without the guidance of Achara proves challenging; hence, Achara functions as a indispensable tool, without which Vichara may lose its effectiveness.
In this symbiotic relationship, a practitioner benefits from both Achara and Vichara. Focusing solely on Achara while neglecting Vichara yields limited value, and the same holds true in reverse. A balanced integration of righteous conduct and introspective inquiry leads to a holistic spiritual journey.
Reflecting on my personal journey, I initially emphasized Kriya Yoga without delving into Vichara. This approach proved less fruitful until I redirected my course. The shift to a combined practice of Achara and Vichara brought about dramatic differences, paving the way for remarkable advancements in my spiritual journey. If there is interest, I am more than willing to share the details of this transformative experience.
Q2- In the contemporary era, with the accessibility of Google, Wiki, and AI, the question arises: is a spiritual guru indispensable for comprehending scriptures?
ReplyDeleteA spiritual guru can be likened to a GPS, possessing an understanding of your current position on the spiritual journey. In contrast, online resources may lack the depth to fully grasp your unique standing. While online platforms excel in delivering instant answers, they may miss the invaluable aspect of personalized coaching.
In my spiritual quest, I have availed myself of numerous online resources, acknowledging their efficacy in addressing immediate queries within the constraints of a busy life. However, I recognize the distinction in the benefits offered by a personal guru. The guru serves as a guide who comprehends the nuances of your individual journey and provides tailored support.
Maintaining an alignment with truth in one's seeking, I have found value in both online and living gurus. Striking a balance seems permissible, and my discussions with living gurus have not indicated objection to this approach. It's crucial to recognize your own status on the path. If you encounter challenges or feel stuck, being aware of your spiritual standing is essential. Seeking guidance from those who can provide personalized assistance becomes imperative in such critical junctures.
In essence, while technology offers immediate and vast information, the personal touch and tailored guidance of a spiritual guru remain unparalleled in navigating the intricate landscapes of spiritual understanding.
Q3 - Bhagwan Sri Krishna's need to elucidate that he had previously imparted this Yoga to his ancestors serves a profound purpose in the context of the Bhagavad Gita.
Firstly, it serves to underscore the divine nature of Sri Krishna as an avatar. By revealing that this wisdom was transmitted through ages, Krishna establishes his timeless and transcendent existence. This, in turn, emphasizes the distinction between Krishna, an avatar, and Arjuna, a mortal. It prompts Arjuna to recognize the extraordinary nature of the source from which this wisdom emanates.
Furthermore, Krishna's explanation sheds light on the unique nature of divine incarnations. Unlike ordinary mortals who are subject to the cycle of birth and death driven by karmic forces, avatars choose to descend for a specific purpose and out of their own free will. This highlights the divine autonomy and conscious intentionality behind the avatar's incarnation.
In contrast, human beings, bound by ignorance and compelled by karmic entanglements, experience birth as a result of involuntary cycles. Krishna's revelation serves to elucidate the disparity in the nature of birth and existence between divine avatars and ordinary individuals.
In essence, Sri Krishna's explanation serves a dual purpose: it establishes his divine identity and, simultaneously, it provides a philosophical backdrop for understanding the distinction between the purposeful incarnation of avatars and the cyclical, karmic-driven nature of human birth. This insight prompts Arjuna to reflect on his own existential condition and the path toward liberation from the cycle of birth and death.