This paper was presented at the
National Seminar on
Indian Psychology: Theories and Models
SVYASA, Bangalore,
December 26 - 28, 2007
 

Spiritual journey in interreligious discourse: surrendering self in Bhakti yoga and Christian mysticism

 Shin Sang Lim — University of Delhi, Delhi

Needless to say, in various religious traditions, spirituality has inspired millions with enthusiasm and passion for experience of god. This experience is the most intimate and astonishing transformation of human being which is the moment of union with god, and living in boundless love of him. Though the notion of union with god sounds abstract as yet, according to the religious teachings, it is a mystical state that the faithful can easily experience. To reach that state, different and deeper kinds of spiritual exercises are constantly required which is the whole process of spiritual growth. For the most part knowing oneself is the first step irrespective of religion. Meditation and contemplation are known to lead one to realize the depth of the self and to clearly see a man as the lover or servant of god. This knowledge opens the way of surrendering the self to god, possible joining the divine love. Interestingly the concept of self-surrendering towards god is found both in Bhakti Yoga of Indian tradition and Christian mysticism. The paper presents a comparative study between these two religious traditions. The paper also emphasizes the application of the idea in our daily lives.

Email the author, Ms. Shin Sang Lim, at sanglim.shin@yahoo.com