My objective is not to unfold the self here. However, I certainly want to reflect on a key aspect that can lead to gradually unfold the self in this blog. How should we approach reading this wonderful book. My reflections have led me to consider proposing a general framework based on which Karma Yoga can be classified. It primarily concerns with two key characteristics -- Action and Attitude.
Let me illustrate this by a simple 2x2. As a professor in Business, this two by two is a staple of my understanding of most concepts.
Let me illustrate this by a simple 2x2. As a professor in Business, this two by two is a staple of my understanding of most concepts.
Figure: The Karmayoga Framework
Lets reflect on the above 2x2. To me the book is most useful if your attitude is fixed first on how you approach the process of self-unfoldment. If our fundamental attitude is wrong, the action, no matter what, is bound to result in an aggravation of ego. We just think we are better than others, and there is no concept of the "self" other than "myself."
The greatest opportunity of the book is in quadrant 3. Just as we call "Arjuna Vishada Yoga" -- it is people who are in this quadrant that the book focuses on taking to quadrant 4. The Vishada Yoga comes as a Yoga of distress -- there is a desire and the need to understand the truth, but the means are not clear. It is this place where a guru is most helpful.
Quadrant 2 (Duryoga) is really a no-brainer. If neither the attitude is right, not the action is right, the person is unfit for the sharavanam-mananam-nidhidyasam cycle. Maybe driven by tamasic tendencies. My presumption is that anyone who is part of this, or is reading this blog is not one of those. Thank goodness for that.
Finally, being in quadrant 4, is where the real Karma Yoga Starts. I say path here because both the right action and right attitude in itself should not make one a karma yogi, but a lifetime of unwavering persistence in this quadrant should certainly qualify one for becoming a Karma Yogi. When we approach this book with the right attitude, and reflect on the individual chapters where gurudev takes us masterfully through the tapestry of a human being's inner world, the self will ultimately be revealed.
Ultimately, we all need the lords grace, nothing happens without him -- not even this blog. Lets wait until I can do this next !
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ReplyDeleteRight Thoughts | Right Speech | Right Action
ReplyDeleteMost problems in our lives arise from our thoughts, words and actions. Thoughts are the source. Words and actions are their extensions. Together they shape our lives.
Thoughts, words and actions are the most visible aspects or outward manifestations of our personalities. They define our character to the world in general.
We have little control over extrinsic factors; we can however to a great extent control what happens inside us and what we can accomplish through our thoughts, words and actions.
Right thinking rises from knowledge and awareness. It creates the right attitude, provides clarity and foresight and finally helps avoid both inner and outer conflicts.
Right action and speech arise from right thinking. They facilitate cooperation, appreciation, and respect. Right action and speech empowers and leads to harmony/righteousness.
Credit Note: https://www.hinduwebsite.com/divinelife/essays/knowledge-of-scriptures.asp