Why Is It Difficult to Let Go of the False Connection Between the Material and the Spiritual?

The false connection between the material (Jada) and the spiritual (Chetan) is a deeply ingrained misconception that binds us to the illusion of attachment. While this connection is untrue, letting it go is challenging because we give it undue importance. By understanding this dynamic and shifting our focus to discernment (Viveka), we can uncover the truth and achieve liberation. This blog explores why this difficulty exists and how to overcome it with practical and philosophical insights.

The Root of the False Connection

The connection between the material (body and world) and the spiritual self is false because they are inherently distinct. The Bhagavad Gita (BG 2.13) emphasizes that the soul transitions through the body but remains untouched by its physical attributes: \”As the soul passes through childhood, youth, and old age in this body, so it passes into another body. The wise are not deluded by this.\” Yet, the illusion persists because of our identification with the body and worldly desires.

Why It Is Difficult to Let Go

Despite its falsity, the connection feels real because we give undue importance to it. This attachment arises from three inherent tendencies in humans:

1. Desire for Pleasure: The body leads to desires for sensory pleasures, which are fleeting and external.
2. Quest for Truth: The soul seeks the knowledge of truth and reality (Tatva Jijnasa).
3. Yearning for Divine Love: The ultimate aspiration of the soul is union with the Supreme Being through love and devotion.

The first tendency, the desire for bodily pleasures, is not intrinsic but arises from ignorance. On the other hand, the quest for truth and the yearning for divine love are inherent and lead to spiritual growth.

Breaking the False Connection

To break the false connection, one must shift from attachment to discernment. Recognizing that the body and worldly possessions are not truly ours frees us from the illusion. Here are the key steps:

• Embrace Selfless Service: Use the body for serving others without attachment or expectation. This dissolves selfish desires and purifies the mind.
• Strengthen the Quest for Knowledge: Cultivate curiosity about the eternal truths of existence. This quest replaces ignorance with wisdom.
• Cultivate Devotion: Develop love and longing for the Supreme Being, redirecting your focus from materiality to divinity.

\”Liberation is not an achievement but your natural state. Recognize this truth, and the false connection will dissolve instantly.\” – Shri Sharananandji Maharaj

Attaining Liberation

Liberation (Mukti) is not something to be gained; it is your inherent nature. By focusing on discernment, you recognize that attachment to the material is an illusion. The Bhagavad Gita (BG 18.66) affirms, \”Surrender fully to me. I shall liberate you from all sins. Do not grieve.\” True freedom lies in surrendering to this eternal truth.

Living Beyond the Illusion

By understanding the false nature of material attachment and embracing the path of service, knowledge, and devotion, you can live in alignment with your true essence. This shift brings peace, clarity, and joy, allowing you to experience life in its purest form.