Matsyendranath’s Lesson For Gorakhnath On Occult | Sadhguru

Summary

The video script explores the intense spiritual journey of Gorak, a devoted disciple of the legendary yogi Machendra. Fiercely committed to his Guru, Gorak undergoes rigorous trials, including a 14-year period of sadhana in the Himalayas. His spiritual growth is tested, leading to profound transformations and the development of the Gorak Asana. Gorak's eventual leadership in the Gorak Nati tradition is highlighted, showcasing his fiery devotion and powerful practices. The script delves into the yogic culture, emphasizing devotion, discipline, and the lasting impact of Gorak's teachings and spiritual movement.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gorak Nath is deeply devoted to his Guru, Machendra Nath, who is revered as a figure akin to Shiva.
• 😀 Gorak Nath's intense devotion led to a transformation from a 'soldier-like' figure to a disciplined yogi after being sent to the Himalayas for 14 years of sadana.
• 😀 Gorak Nath returns from the Himalayas after 14 years, eager to reunite with his Guru, but is stopped by a monk who prevents him from entering the Guru's cave.
• 😀 In frustration, Gorak Nath uses his spiritual powers (called his ult) to divine the location of his Guru and finds him.
• 😀 Machendra Nath instructs Gorak Nath to perform another 14 years of sadana due to his misuse of spiritual powers, but Gorak Nath seeks a way to shorten the time.
• 😀 Gorak Nath is given the task of sitting in an impossible posture (Gorak Asana) for 7 years, a posture that has become iconic in yogic traditions.
• 😀 Gorak Nath’s fierce dedication to his Guru drives him to extremes, showing his unwavering commitment to spiritual growth.
• 😀 Gorak Nath establishes the Gorak Nati community after his Guru's passing, spreading spiritual practices and teachings throughout India.
• 😀 The Gorak Natis are known for wearing a large ear ring and carrying a black dog with them, symbolizing their spiritual lineage and bond with nature.
• 😀 The Gorak Nati community remains one of the oldest spiritual groups in India, although its numbers have dwindled over time.
• 😀 The Gorak Nati tradition is marked by its discipline, deep connection with dogs, and rigorous spiritual practices that continue to influence Indian yogic culture.

Q & A

Who is Machendra and what is his significance in yogic culture?

Machendra is regarded as a prominent figure in yogic culture, seen by many as being equal to Lord Shiva himself. His importance stems from his wisdom and spiritual influence, as he was a revered guru and teacher to many yogis.

How did Gorak Nath's devotion to his Guru impact his actions?

Gorak Nath's intense devotion to his Guru, Machendra, shaped his actions and decisions throughout his life. His loyalty was so fierce that it influenced his emotional and spiritual practices, driving him to undergo rigorous ascetic practices, including his 14 years in the Himalayas.

Why was Gorak Nath sent to the Himalayas for 14 years of sadhana?

Machendra sent Gorak Nath to the Himalayas for 14 years to focus on his spiritual growth after noticing that Gorak's devotion to him was becoming too soldier-like and intense, instead of being centered in the true yogic discipline.

What was Gorak Nath's state of mind during his time in the Himalayas?

During his time in the Himalayas, Gorak Nath was deeply focused on the completion of his 14-year sadhana, counting each moment until he could return to his Guru. His mind was also fixed on his Guru's teachings, although he did acquire spiritual powers during this period.

What challenge did Gorak Nath face upon returning from the Himalayas?

Upon returning from the Himalayas, Gorak Nath was stopped by another Yogi guarding the cave where his Guru resided. This Yogi refused to let him enter, leading Gorak to lose his temper and push him aside before realizing that his Guru was not there.

How did Gorak Nath find his Guru's location after being blocked from entering the cave?

Gorak Nath used his spiritual abilities, including his 'ult' (a form of yogic power), to read the Yogi's mind and find out where his Guru, Machendra, was hiding. This ability allowed him to locate his Guru's true location.

Why was Gorak Nath required to undergo another 14 years of sadhana?

Machendra instructed Gorak Nath to undergo another 14 years of sadhana because Gorak had misused his spiritual abilities to divine into someone else's mind, which was considered a misuse of his powers and against yogic discipline.

What was the condition under which Gorak Nath could shorten his sadhana to 7 years?

Gorak Nath was told that he could reduce his sadhana period from 14 years to 7 years if he performed an impossibly difficult yogic posture, known as Gorak Asana, which involved sitting on his left toes with the heel in the muladhara and the right leg crossed over.

What is the Gorak Asana and why is it significant?

The Gorak Asana is a highly challenging yoga posture that involves sitting on the left toes with the heel in the muladhara and the right leg crossed over. It is significant because it was the means through which Gorak Nath shortened his 14-year sadhana to just 7 years, demonstrating his discipline and spiritual strength.

What is the legacy of Gorak Nath and the Gorak Nathi tradition?

The legacy of Gorak Nath is seen in the widespread spiritual movement he founded, known as the Gorak Nathi tradition. This group is known for its distinctive practices, including the wearing of large bone rings and carrying black dogs, and it continues to influence yogic culture in India today.