Hinduism - Hank Pruett

What is the human condition?
The human condition pertaining to Hinduism is very comforting. We are all part of the infinite concept that is god. Unlike in other religions we are not in any sense flawed. Each of us is just on the path to realizing that we are not separate from all things like we are so inclined to think. Hinduism is trying to destroy the ego that seems to be a natural occurrence in all men. Our bodies are just vessels for the spirit and the joy and pain we experience in our lives does not matter in attaining a higher consciousness. Things of this nature are just the product of our karmic activity.

How do we move from problem to solution?
Our goal as humans, who are part of Brahman, is to reflect on our selves by using the four yogas. Jhana which is knowledge, Bhakti which is love, Raja which is self-control, and Karma which is service. Through this reflection we are to find inner peace in knowing that we are one with everything. This will elevate our consciousness and bring us closer to the state of Atman, which is total bliss. In essence, you are trying to remove your ego which lets you connect to all other things. This idea of all other things. This is Brahman.


What is the best solution to this condition?
The solution to this condition is to achieve Atman. This can be done through constant practice of the four yogas, either singularly or in combination with each other, whatever is the best path for you individually. The idea is to do whatever it takes to make yourself realize Atman so you can be one with brahman. This is also done through the constant paying of your karmic debt. With the trials you face in everyday life, which you have incurred through previous actions, you are given the choice to act in a way that releases you from previous karmic debt.


How best to live the solution in our own lives?
The only thing one can really do is to try and realize Atman. For some this takes constant meditation and or others its just a matter of working it out or yourself. Realize that everything is God and that in this you are god and so are also connected to everything. The goal is to act through love and not fear and to not buy into the illusion that is caused by the ego, but to "play" with the condition of life and to not allow the negative to control how you feel.

From a personal perspective I find the philosophy behind Hinduism almost perfect. Assuming that you believe that such things are possible, Hinduism offers the individual a way to peace by not changing who they are but changing what they think they are. God is not separate from anything and in this we can find peace in knowing that we are also not separate from anything either.