“Yoga” means union, and therefore, the means of merger with Divinity. Guru Nanak’s way is called Nam yoga or Sahaj Yoga, The word Sahaj means the natural or gradual process. Justas vegetables cooked over a slow fire retain their flavor, so in the same way, the Sahaj discipline of mind and body, will out the essential goodness of a human being. Sahaj Yoga differs radically from Hath Yoga. ‘
Sahaj Yoga ts peculiar to Sikhism. It is the best form of the three traditional Yogas-Karam Yoga, Gian Yoga and Bhagti Yoga, Here the three types merge to form an ideal one. Actions which are noble and righteous, along with meditation on “The Name” and the elimination of the Ego, pave the way 10 Goa. Realization. In the Guru Granth Sahib it is called the Fourth stage, Chautha Pad which means that’ beyond the three Gunas of Rajas (activity), Tamas (darkness) and Satav (peace), and the three s Awakening, Dream and Dreamless sleep. It is a state of equipoise, called Turiya.
The maladies of the soul must be cured in this life; otherwise they are carried over to the next! This dedicated life of self-discipline is essential:
“I have placed the five senses under the control of my conscience, By making my five organs of perception and my five organs of action also obedient perfect yogi.”(A.G., p. 208)
Just as the lotus remains in water and is not made wet by it, so the devotee may remain: Maya or worldly things. Sahaj also creates contentment and desirelessness, Man is, in sees No sooner does he realize this than he wishes to merge into the Universal Source, The wall of egoism only be destroyed with the Guru’s guidance and God’s grace. The union of man with God is like the consummation of marriage or like the confuence of two streams Sangam. Such a union is possible, while living in the midst of worldly things and performing daily duties.
Article extracted from this publication >> October 8, 1993
