Preksa Dhyana - Theory And Practice: [04.05] Raison d'etre of Preksa Dhyana - Perception of Body - Process of Self-Realization

[raison d'etre = reason or justification for existence]

Our existence is made up in several levels. Firstly, it is a dual existence that is an immaterial conscious self or soul within a material body. Though transcendentally separate, the two ele­ments are so combined that separateness is not perceivable. Secondly, the material body itself is divided into gross, subtle and subtle most bodies or micro bodies. The aim of body-perception is to realise and directly ex­perience the separateness of body and soul. Obviously this can be achieved in specific steps. The easiest, and so the first perception, is that of the gross body. Next comes the flow of the blood stream to the cellular nuclei. Next to that is the activity of the subtle body - taijasa sarira - in the form of electrical impulses criss­crossing the nerves. If one is able to perceive the bioelectrical functions, one can hope of perceiving the vibrations of the most subtle body or micro body.

At this stage the transcendental separateness is no longer an imagination but becomes a real experience. The existence of the real self with all its glory is then revealed. When one is in direct contact with the splendour of the real self, the exterior loses its charm and appears pale and trivial. Till then one is not aware of this inherent treasure.

How divine is the internal music, how sweet the smell, how beautiful and captivating the scene!

One is unaware of all these until the door is unlocked and the treasure is revealed. However learned or religious one may be, his total interest will be in the exterior, until he has had a glimpse of the inherent treasure. There is no other way to withdraw from this temptation. Any number of theological discourses and sermons, any amount of traditional rites and rituals would fail to draw one away from the lust of the sensual pleasure until and unless one has had a glimpse of the inherent, has become aware of his own real self. Best of sermons delivered by the cleverest minister is able to teach and impress the intellect - the brain - but is incapable of unlocking the innermost consciousness.