Turiya State: The Ultimate Consciousness In Indian Philosophy (Part 2)
The exploration of Turiya, the fourth state of consciousness in Indian spiritual philosophy, is a profound journey deeply rooted in the Vedantic tradition. Turiya transcends the common states of waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, representing a state of pure consciousness beyond sensory experience and mental constructs.
The Mandukya Upanishad describes ‘AUM’, and associates its components with different consciousness states. The silence following ‘AUM’ symbolizes Turiya as the unchanging reality and ultimate consciousness state.
In Chandogy Upanishad the unity of the individual soul (Atma) with the universal soul (Brahm) mirrors the Turiya concept, highlighting the realization of oneness.
In Advaita Vedanta, Adi Shankaracharya’s commentaries often depict Turiya as the non-dual state of ultimate consciousness, a realization of self non-different from Brahman.
In Yoga Vasistha the dialogues between Sadhu Vasistha and Bhagwan Ram explore reality and consciousness, implicitly discussing Turiya.
My suggested humble way at attaining Turiya
Regular Meditation:
Essential for transcending normal consciousness states.
Self-Inquiry (Atma Vichara):
Questioning one’s existence to dissolve the ego and realize pure consciousness.
Study of Scriptures (Svadhyaya):
Engaging with texts like the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita fosters a deeper self and universe understanding.
Pranayama (Breath Control):
Yogic breathing exercises aid in calming the mind for deeper spiritual experiences.
Ethical Living (Yama and Niyama):
A disciplined life, as per Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, creates a conducive environment for spiritual growth.
On a question posted in comments, I did some research on Sahasrara Chakra, below is what I understood.
Turiya and Sahasrara Chakra Activation
The similarity between Turiya and activating the Sahasrara (crown) chakra is conceptually overlapping.
In yogic traditions, Sahasrara activation, associated with higher consciousness and spiritual connection, mirrors Turiya’s state of pure awareness and bliss. However, Turiya is more a state of being in Vedantic philosophy, whereas Sahasrara activation pertains to the yogic chakra system.
Both signify spiritual realization but are approached through different philosophical and practical lenses.
The journey to Turiya, as outlined in Indian philosophical and spiritual practices, is a profound endeavor of self-realization. It involves transcending the limitations of the mind and the senses to experience the true nature of the self and the universe, a path of introspection, ethical living, and disciplined spiritual practice.
Image: AI rendering
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