Jnana Yoga

Jnana Yoga is not the accumulation of knowledge for its own sake, but rather the development of understanding and a comprehension of the knowledge gained. A computer can store vast amounts of data but is not the mind or consciousness that interprets it. A donkey can be loaded down with numerous books, yet still remain a donkey. Knowledge is the level of knowing which we understand things, and this can vary from person to person. A Jnana Yogi, works as best they can, to transform their store of everyday knowledge into a body of wisdom.

Wisdom is the total formal content of the soul, which informs us at many levels, through feelings, our dreams, and store of mental impressions. We are considered wise when we have sound judgement and can make the best use of the knowledge gained. The Yogi recognises two levels of thought; the manomayakosha or lower mind, that is the mental sheath, associated with the five senses; and the vijnanamakosha or higher mind, which is the enlightened or conscious mind.

The lower mind, equips us for life on earth, and is often without ethical or moral consideration; as to how our actions affect each other. The lower mind is often subject to change and what is expedient in each moment. The higher mind, if we have one, prepares us for the life of the spirit and looks inward toward the light of consciousness for guidance.

Jnana Mudra as adopted by yogis during meditation reminds them of their highest aims; the thumb symbolising the highest level of Will; that is the level of which consciousness initiates action; the Index finger representing Intelligence or Consciousness. The way we think, and feel, affects our sense of well-being. There is a powerful relationship between the way we think and the way we feel; as thoughts we prefer to keep hidden and out of sight can lead to psychosomatic problems. Feelings and emotion not only disturb the nervous system but also affect body chemistry, hence the study of bio-chemistry and the all too familiar drug prescriptions, for dealing with ill health and emotional problems.

Jnana is the supramental wisdom that crystallises and patterns creation. To glimpse this level of reality is the highest aim of Jnana Yoga, and the start of a developmental process that leads toward an eternal body of light. To assist this process, spend a little time daily to become still; then feel for the level from which thoughts arise in the mind. Only keep those thoughts which you deem to be true and which you are happy to carry with you, from this life into the next.