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ARTICLE : religion/Hinduism/Yoga
Classical Yoga (meaning the many facets of Yoga; i.e., Karma, Bhakti,
Raja and Jnana, for example)defines Hinduism which is the popular term
for Sanatan Dharma. (Of course, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism[outgrowths
of Hinduism] utilize Yogic practices.) Hindus/Sanatanists "practice"
these various Yogas. Though we can observe universal spiritual
principles, Christians, Muslims and Jews, for example, do not say that
they are doing Bhakti Yoga, for example. So, we are just trying to
clarify the profound process of spiritual awakening as exemplified by the
various religions of the world.
There are many paths up the spiritual mountain (and some are more
complete than others), but, untill we follow one, our experience is
limited and confusion abounds. Patanjali, for example, was totally
devoted to Siva Nataraja and had many visions of this form of "God" that
is found within Hinduism. (Christians, obviously, do not pray to
Siva.) Patanjali clearly points out the spiritual path; i.e., Yama &
Niyama or ethics and devotion (Karma and Bhakti Yoga). After this
foundation, he recommends asanas then meditation. This is classic
Hinduism. (And, by not admitting the religious Yoga/Hindu connection, as
well as being a qualified Hindu teacher, the foundation is missing.)
The religion of Yoga/Hinduism is a profound path up the spiritual
mountain. One certainly does not have to become a Hindu to explore the
path, but, as in any other religion, the teacher must, in this case, be a
Hindu. To deny this, is unethical and counterproductive to the journey.
Hinduism/Sanatan Dharma is, of course, comprised of several sects. Now,
if some within these sects want to claim to be seperate, so be it. It has
happened before. But, it does cause a lot of confusion in the transition.
Defining what is a Hindu is not simple because it is complex (rich). But,
common sense, shows that in Hinduism we find all the Yogas, the
laws of Karma and Reincarnation, Meditation, OM, Kundalini, Chakras,
Mantras, Gurus, Swamis and Yogis, etc. The scriptures read in Hindu
temples, etc., such as the Gita, Ramayana, Vedas, Upanashads, Tirukural,
Tirumantirum, etc., are not read in churches, mosques and synogogues.
This is really common sense. If it walks like a duck... . To not admit
the religious Yoga/Hindu connection is like wondering where our sunburn
came from!
Such confusions have abounded from Hindus being afraid to say they are a
Hindu. Christians, etc., have no problem with this. This is to be
commended. And, many Christians, for example, would have no problem in
pointing out that "Yoga" is not a part of their religion. And, of course,
mnay non-Hindus have jumped on the "Yoga Bandwagon" and claim to be
teachers (and charge fees for what should be spiritual/religious classes)
which further confuses the issue in the minds of the masses.
Om Shanti,
Swami ParamGiri
