Introduction to Vedanta - Part II

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What it means and what it doesn't- FAQs

The ancient teachings of Vedanta have been enveloped in the haze of popular opinions and inaccurate interpretations with the passage of time. In fact, one of the central themes of Vedantic teaching is to remove misconceptions, which veil our understanding and perception of the Self! So, let us try and uncover some of these veils, which have shrouded Vedanta itself in mystery and prejudice.

1. 'Is it necessary to renounce the world to practice Vedanta? Is Vedanta meant only for renunciates? Is monasticism a compulsory prerequisite to attain the fruit of Vedantic teachings - moksha or jnana?' etc.
Vedanta is a system of teaching involving a rigorous process of inquiry, which helps us to gain a direct perception of the limitless Self. Therefore, it is a means of self-knowledge. It does not insist on any material or social conditions for that unfoldment to occur. Vedantic teaching involves intensive introspection and contemplation. Hence, the psychological makeup of the aspirant does play an important role in grasping the teachings. However, there is no such rule in any of the Vedantic texts that a renunciate alone is eligible to learn or understand Vedanta or that Vedanta inevitably leads to sanyasa.

The subject of all Vedantic teachings is the Subject itself, which perceives all objects and experiences them. So, if a person is busy in materialistic pursuits and experiences, how will his mind seek or grasp the Self? When a person has understood the limitations of such objects and pursuits in providing lasting fulfilment, the search for fulfilment turns inwards and Vedanta becomes an immediately relevant means of knowledge for such an aspirant. This dispassion for the blind pursuit of happiness, born out of a mature understanding and the resulting inward gaze is the true renunciation that Vedantic teachings refer to.

Sanyasa or monastic life, on the other hand, is not suitable for everyone. In a society, there may be a miniscule minority who may desire a life exclusively devoted to the contemplation and practice of Vedantic teachings. However, it is easier said than done; the monastic life is very difficult to lead and requires intense commitment, discipline and dispassion. For a large majority, the grhihastha or family path is more suitable and also leads to a gradual unfoldment of the Vedantic vision.

2. Does it involve esoteric practices like repetition of mystic syllables or difficult postures?
Gleefully, no! Vedanta doesn't try to awaken any hidden snake-power or monkey-power within you! However, some of these traditional practices (like japam or repetition of a mantra) can help in removing distractions and enable the mind to focus better on the subject of contemplation. A student of Vedanta is free to practice any such technique that he may find useful for his physical, mental or emotional well-being. All that one requires understanding Vedanta is a sane and objective mind.

3. Will Vedanta solve all our day-to-day problems?
Sorry folks, but if you expect a salary hike because you read the Bhagavad Gita or attend lectures on the Upanishads, then I'll have to disappoint you. Going by some recent news reports, some nerds in the corporate circles are trying to apply the teachings of Bhagavad Gita to management practices. I'll be reserved and adopt a policy of wait & watch till they succeed. Till then, let me stick on to a more sober approach. Vedanta does not promise a utopia or a Harry Potter style of transformation in our material or social circumstances. However, the clarity that the Vedantic teaching brings to your mind will definitely help you in dealing with your day-to-day problems. This may be a desirable side effect but it is not the primary goal.