Hindu philosophy and meditation
Meditation can be experienced by anyone regardless of their religion or belief system. In most religious traditions, meditation plays a significant role to explore the Self and to commune with divinity.
In Hinduism, meditation is discussed in the Rig Veda (5,000BC) and of course, Sage Patanjali who wrote the yoga sutras (400CE) described the stages of yoga and the objective of yoga – where the actor of meditation, the subject of meditation and the act of meditation merge into One – the state of samadhi.
In the Hindu and yogic tradition, meditation is learned from an experienced teacher, or Guru, who has walked the path him or herself and who is now well qualified through experience, to guide others.
Many popular meditation styles such as mantra meditation are grounded in ancient philosophy that date back to these sacred Hindu texts. Anyone however can practice such styles under the instruction of an experienced teacher – these meditation practices are not based on adhering to a belief system. In fact, the first step to a fruitful meditation practice is to drop all concepts!
Hinduism is not a proselytizing religion – this means it is not a tradition that is actively seeking new members by ‘conversion’. It is an ancient tradition that embraces a wide diversity of ideas, concepts and paths that all can lead to the ultimate – Self realisation.
For those who would like to explore the philosophical side of meditation and learn more about the Hindu practices and philosophies that embrace and celebrate the divinity that is in all things and beings, you are most welcome to join a satsang class.
The objective of yoga is samadhi - where the actor of meditation, the subject of meditation and the act of meditation merge into One - this is the state of samadhi.