Enlightenment is the fundamental goal of Hinduism. It is a journey that begins with understanding and living in accordance with the teachings of Vedanta and ends in complete liberation from the limitations of the physical world. Achieving enlightenment requires a commitment to the spiritual path and an understanding of the mechanisms behind what Hinduism calls the “delusion of Maya” or the false essentiality of physical objects and concepts.
The first step to achieving enlightenment in Hinduism is to cultivate an attitude of detachment and acceptance. This involves being mindful of the impermanent and ever-changing nature of the physical world and understanding that nothing material provides lasting satisfaction. Additionally, this practice involves being open to the teachings of Hinduism and learning to practice acceptance, non-attachment and surrender to the higher power.
The second step is to develop an understanding of the spiritual path. Hinduism is driven by karma and dharma, both of which fuel the cycle of reincarnation. Dharma is a collection of practices and ethics that bind Hindus to their religious duties, such as prayer, fasting, visiting temples, and engaging in rituals, such as fire ceremonies and pilgrimages. Karma is a reaction to one’s thoughts and deeds, either positive or negative, that determines how they will be reincarnated. By understanding and abiding by these two principles, Hindus can be free from the cycle of reincarnation.
The third step is to practice various forms of yoga. The eight ‘limbs’ of yoga, such as Ashtanga and Hatha, provide various physical and mental disciplines and meditations that help to still the mind and open it up to greater understanding. Also, Tantra yoga focuses on developing energy centers, known as chakras, within the body to help one become more in tune with their spiritual self.
The fourth and final step is to practice contemplative meditation. Contemplative meditation is not just a form of relaxation, but a means by which to remove mundane thoughts and to concentrate on more spiritual matters. This type of meditation enables Hindus to reflect on deep spiritual questions and to slowly succumb to the deep silence within themselves that brings with it a state of serenity and enlightenment.
Developing Mental Clarity
Developing mental clarity is a crucial step in achieving enlightenment in Hinduism. Hindus believe that Maya, the power that creates the seeming reality of the world, works by obscuring one’s true identity and creating a false sense of identity based on physical objects and concepts. Therefore, it is necessary for one to clear their mind of the burden of these material trappings in order to see their true self. The practice of yoga, mindfulness, and meditation are all ways in which one can begin to cut through the veil of Maya.
Abandoning Desires and Passions
It is also important to recognize that enlightenment is not achieved through the pursuit of desires or passions. Hindus believe that attachment to material desires and successes can only cause further suffering and the achievement of enlightenment requires complete detachment from these pursuits. Hindu teachings advise the avoidance of attachments and desires, as they can lead one away from the path to enlightenment.
Finding Guidance
It is beneficial to find guides who can help one along their spiritual path. Many Hindus turn to their local religious leaders or gurus for instruction and support in their journey to enlightenment. Having a relationship with a spiritual mentor provides a system of checks and balances and offers guidance when one is struggling. It also provides an external source of motivation to stay focused on the journey ahead.
Experiencing Liberation
Ultimately, achieving enlightenment in Hinduism involves liberating oneself from the illusions of the physical world. The goal is to come to a realization of the ultimate truth, the divine reality of which we are all a part. By following the teachings of Vedanta, practicing yoga and meditation, and developing mental clarity, Hindus are able to experience emancipation from the material world and greater understanding of the inner-self.
