Why are we here?

The answer to that question is both simple and complex; it can be a paradox. Many of the realizations that come on the spiritual path seem to be paradoxical in nature. It is complex, because it at once draws into being many aspects of our self that are relative to our life, and it also brings into consideration our essential nature, which is Divine. Yes, that is right! Our essential nature is Divine. I know that is a divergence from the general view we have of each other, but it is a great point in which to consider, when starting to look at meaning in our life. This will become more obvious as we continue through the seminar, but it would be good for you to remember this point as we proceed. Our essential nature is Divine.

It draws in questions surrounding our dharma. Dharma has several levels of meanings, but for the moment we will focus on personal dharma or life purpose. The simple aspect of this paradox, is that ultimately we have the same dharma, and that is to become liberated from the limitations and suffering of this transitory world and merge into the highest states of Divine Bliss. This is the highest dharma for each soul.

The process through following spiritual practices takes considerable time and effort, but at least the direction can be understood easily enough. To quote Joseph Campbell ( Follow your own Bliss ) We are all looking for Bliss or lasting happiness but we have been fooled by the senses into thinking it is to be found somewhere outside our self, but ultimately it can only be found within.

This search for happiness, or everlasting bliss is at the very crux of the human condition. It highlights the soul’s condition of being ensnared on the wheel or life, death and rebirth. It is the very spot upon which Krishna draws up the chariot for Arjuna, so that he can view the battlefield, that exists within us all. It is the place in which we are called to battle, for the sovereignty of our soul and its rightful place in transcendental existence.

When we look at the forces arrayed against us, some of which are our cherished concepts and habits which we love, and realize they all must be wiped out in our struggle for liberation, we can lose our will.

It is here that Krishna starts to impart Divine wisdom to Arjuna about the soul, its eternal nature, and its inevitable victory over the forces arrayed against it. It is here also that we can all take comfort, that by surrendering to the Divine, we can and will prevail over our inner enemies. All our entanglements in this world arise from our eternal enemy desire.

A person’s highest personal dharma is the taking of action, which is in harmony with Divine will; while understanding the underlying unity of consciousness and striving for liberation from this ocean of suffering.

For the spiritual warrior it is essential to be aware of one’s relationship to the Divine at all times. This allows the intuition to reveal the right course of action in any given circumstance. This will always allow for the best possible outcome, for all concerned.

Depending on the spiritual evolution of the soul, one will be intuitive according to the degree of its development. The more aware a soul is of its intimate relationship with the Divine, the more the will be guided by their intuition.

The ego with its sense of limitation, sense of unworthiness and sense of separateness makes our soul lose its awareness with the all-pervading consciousness. The various attachments arising from desire create emotions and a sense of doer-ship that contributes to the accumulation of karma. The senses and lower emotions of passion will pull a person into action. Action motivated by selfish desire creates the subtle, but powerful bonds that chain us to the wheel of karma. This by its very nature further entangles the soul in the physical world and ensures further suffering and attachment.

It is for this reason, that one of the keys to unlocking the chains of karma is to work selflessly. To work without attachment to the results.

Krishna says, You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of work. You should never engage in action for the sake of reward, nor should you long for inaction. Seek refuge in the attitude of detachment and you will amass spiritual wealth.

The challenges and inclinations of various souls towards the realization of the highest dharma will depend on how evolved that soul is already, and the nature of their present karma. Our karma is intertwined with our perception, the views and the conceptual filters we hold on to. However transforming and helpful to our development in time imprison the soul. Even our most cherished concepts, which may have been a necessary part of our growth, will in time imprison the soul, if we are unwilling to evolve with our unfolding consciousness.

Knowing that you’re highest good is to merge your consciousness into the deepest levels of awareness that exist within you, raises another question.

Tag: Why are we here