Siddhanta-shravana

Siddhanta-shravana

सिद्धान्त-श्रवण, siddhānta-śravaṇa

Systematic listening (studying) of the scriptures, especially yoga shastras, comprehension and understanding of the truths revealed in them thanks to the spiritual experience of enlightened Teachers.

Before entering the path of yoga, a true seeker must familiarize himself with existing ideas about the spiritual nature of human soul and the basic spiritual ideas of human life, gain an idea of true relationship of an individual with the world order, the true nature of the Universal Reality, hidden and manifested in the world through natural experience.

It is necessary to understand the importance of yoga for the perfection of body, mind, intelligence, and clear consciousness leading to the perception of the direct identity of the soul with the Universal Reality, as well as the main distinguishing features and stages of yoga sadhana.

By shravana, svadhyaya, and vichara – that is, by receiving instructions from competent teachers, systematic study, and reflection – one should drive out from the mind all inclinations and prejudices, erroneous ideas and prejudices, narrow-minded views and sectarian arrogance, in order to acquire sincerity and seriousness of spirit, seeking genuine truth, virtue, and beauty.

Source: “Introduction to Natha Yoga” by Mahant Avedyanath