Special Topics in Meditation #1
Here we examine some of the overarching aims and ideals of yoga. This set of 10 questions and answers served as the opening segment into our “Special Topics in Meditation” seminar on Feb 21, 2019.
In that session there were ten flash cards with questions and ten more with answers. When a question was read then the corresponding answer was offered, and then there was a short period for follow-up discussion and queries. Then we proceeded to the next question and answer.
Below are all ten questions and answers, and in some cases, as per my memory, I have tried to capture the essence of the follow-up queries and discussion. If anyone who attended the session recalls more from the evening or has new points to raise, kindly write in with your recollections, thoughts, or queries and I will add them here.
Looking ahead: In next month’s session we will address an entirely new set of queries and responses – hope you will join us.
#1: What is yoga?
The process and practice of achieving union between unit mind and cosmic mind.
Follow-up: The question was raise what is “union” and the response was that union means merging two into one wherein there is no distinction between the two previously existing entities.
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#2: What is the difference between yoga and meditation?
There is no difference; they are part and parcel of the same endeavor.
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#3: Is yoga atheistic?
No, yoga is founded on the premise that this entire cosmological order is God-centered and all are the expressions of the Supreme.
Follow-up: In the yogic tradition, God or Brahma is that all-encompassing Entity that is the connective force and all-pervading consciousness in this cosmos. And through meditation the aspirant comes to realize this. However, one need not accept or believe this to embark on the practice of yoga / meditation. One’s process of spiritual discovery is purely personal – nothing is imposed.
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#4: Is there a hierarchy in yoga?
No, everyone’s existential value is the same regardless of their worldly status or spiritual attainment.
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#5: What is the relationship between yoga and Buddhism or Hinduism?
No relation. Those are religions and yoga is a practice. They have a shared vocabulary with vastly different meanings.
Follow-up: From an academic and philosophical perspective, with its 500+ million followers, Buddhism is recognized as one of the world’s major religions. At the same time, times change and transformations occur, and there are some who embrace this more as a way of life than as a religion.
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#6: Why are some hesitant to learn meditation?
There are a few reasons but one is that they are afraid of losing something, i.e. their current way of life. But there is no loss – only gain.
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#7: What are the most important qualities for successful meditation?
Sincerity, consistency, and yearning.
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#8: How do I know when my meditation is successful?
(A) When you have no desire to stop or open your eyes; and / or,
(B) when you feel a sense of contentment or peace; and / or,
(C) when you feel a desire to link with something greater than yourself.
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#9: Is there a need for any external paraphernalia (when practicing meditation)?
No, those only distract the mind and goad the mind to crude physicality.
Follow-up: The main idea here is that the only absolute requisite or requirement is a human body & mind. However, there are various help tools such as chanting, singing bowls, inspiring discussion, malas etc that can help the aspirant make the transition from busy day-to-day living to their meditative endeavor. Those are certainly important for building momentum in your practice. Yet, once the mind is truly locked in on the meditative process, any outside elements will be a distraction. Just like if one is really focused on any intellectual engagement then outside interruptions hinder one’s concentration.
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#10: Why is meditation essential for every human being?
Every person is born with an infinite longing which cannot be fulfilled by the material sphere which is inherently finite.
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Thank You & Namaskar!
Thanks for coming out and participating in this initial session of “Special Topics in Meditation.” Looking forward to the next one in March….
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