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जीवन में ज़रा मदहोशी हो || आचार्य प्रशान्त (2016)
आचार्य प्रशांत
1.8K views
8 years ago
Religion
Spirituality
Swadharma
Pardharma
Truth
Intellect
Rituals
Existence
Description

Acharya Prashant clarifies that there is no fundamental difference between religion and spirituality, though the term 'religion' has become somewhat tarnished. He defines religion as a set of methods or ways of living that lead toward peace and truth, while spirituality is the direct commitment to truth without concern for established methods. He explains that following one's own conscience and intellect is 'Swadharma' (one's own duty), which is true spirituality, whereas following rituals imposed by others or ancestors is 'Pardharma' (another's duty). He encourages the questioner not to feel guilty about rejecting rituals that do not align with their inner wisdom, as honoring one's own intellect is a form of worship in itself. Addressing the feeling of isolation, Acharya Prashant asserts that a truly spiritual person does not feel lonely because they are not acting under external pressure. He emphasizes that it is better to die following one's own nature (Swadharma) than to live a fearful life following someone else's path (Pardharma). He challenges the questioner to find the courage to renounce what is false and meaningless. Spirituality requires the strength to let go of superstitions and customs that one recognizes as illusory. Finally, the speaker discusses the nature of existence and the futility of constant questioning. He suggests that instead of seeking answers to endless intellectual questions, one should look at the source of the restlessness from which these questions arise. He describes spirituality not as physical stillness, but as an inner stability that allows the body and mind to live with a sense of 'intoxication' or passion. He advises against trying to control life or over-analyzing it, suggesting that true living involves a certain 'madness' or surrender to the flow of life, rather than living like a calculated machine.