The Science Behind Sanatan Dharma | Sadhguru

Summary

In this insightful discussion, Sadhguru explores the concept of Sanathana Dharma, emphasizing that it is not a religion, but rather an eternal set of laws that govern life. He explains how human beings naturally long for limitless expansion, constantly seeking growth and freedom from boundaries. While people often build walls for self-preservation, these walls can later become self-imposed prisons. The core of Sanathana Dharma, according to Sadhguru, is the pursuit of 'mukti' or liberation, with all other aspects of life being secondary. He suggests that children should be taught from an early age that their true longing is for boundless freedom.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sanatana Dharma refers to eternal laws that govern life, not a religion, but a set of universal principles.
• 😀 Dharma means 'law' and encompasses both physical and non-physical laws that govern existence.
• 😀 All human beings, whether conscious of it or not, are governed by physical laws of the planet, such as gravity, which allows us to exist and function.
• 😀 In addition to physical laws, there are non-physical laws that govern the internal life process within individuals.
• 😀 Over time, various interpretations and additions have been made to Sanatana Dharma, influenced by individual needs or vested interests.
• 😀 The essence of Sanatana Dharma is recognizing that human beings are inherently driven to seek something more than what they currently are.
• 😀 Humans have an unconscious longing for expansion and limitless potential, and this drive for growth is inbuilt.
• 😀 Regardless of philosophy or belief, people continuously strive to transcend their current boundaries and limitations.
• 😀 Self-preservation leads individuals to build walls for protection when threatened, but these same walls become imprisoning when no external threat exists.
• 😀 The core aim of life, according to Sanatana Dharma, is 'mukti' or liberation, which is to break free from the limitations that bind us.
• 😀 A child’s upbringing should emphasize the pursuit of mukti (liberation) as the most important goal, with all other concerns being secondary.
• 😀 Sanatana Dharma is not about fixed religious practices; it allows individuals the freedom to define their own understanding of divinity.

Q & A

What is the meaning of Sanathana Dharma?

Sanathana Dharma refers to the eternal laws or principles that govern life. It is not a religion but rather a framework for understanding the universal laws that influence both the physical and non-physical aspects of existence.

How does Sanathana Dharma differ from religion?

Sanathana Dharma is not a religion in the traditional sense. While religions typically involve organized beliefs and rituals, Sanathana Dharma focuses on universal laws of life that transcend religious boundaries and offer freedom for individual spiritual exploration.

What is the inherent nature of human beings according to Sanathana Dharma?

According to Sanathana Dharma, every human being has an inherent longing to expand beyond their current state. This desire for growth and self-improvement is limitless, and no matter what achievements a person reaches, they continue seeking more.

Why do human beings unconsciously seek limitlessness?

Human beings have an innate drive to expand and experience life beyond boundaries. This instinct stems from the understanding that true fulfillment lies in boundless possibilities, and the human mind and spirit are allergic to limitations.

What happens when a person experiences boundaries in their life?

When a person encounters boundaries, especially self-imposed ones, they feel restricted. These boundaries create discomfort and can lead to self-imprisonment. While boundaries may protect a person in times of external threat, they become suffocating when no threat exists.

What is 'mukti' in Sanathana Dharma, and why is it important?

'Mukti' refers to liberation or freedom from the limitations of life. It is considered the ultimate goal of human existence, as it allows a person to transcend boundaries and experience a limitless, boundless state of being.

How should parents approach the concept of 'mukti' for their children?

Parents should introduce the concept of mukti (liberation) to children at an early age. This is seen as the true longing of every human being—freedom from the limitations of the self. All other pursuits should be secondary to this ultimate goal of spiritual and personal expansion.

What role do external circumstances play in the creation of boundaries within a person?

External threats trigger the natural instinct of self-preservation, leading individuals to build walls for protection. However, when no external threat is present, these protective walls can become internal barriers that limit personal growth and freedom.

What is the significance of personal freedom in Sanathana Dharma?

Sanathana Dharma emphasizes personal freedom above all else. It offers individuals the liberty to choose their own path, whether it’s forming a personal understanding of God, spirituality, or life’s purpose. This freedom is key to achieving mukti.

How does the pursuit of liberation (mukti) relate to individual beliefs and spiritual practices?

The pursuit of liberation in Sanathana Dharma is deeply personal and individualized. People are free to follow their own beliefs, make their own choices about spirituality, and define their own understanding of God, all while striving toward the goal of liberation and expansion beyond boundaries.