Summary
The reading represents the immersion of a person into the aspects of yoga and its comparison with Lent. The key emphasis is on human intellectual and spiritual practices. According to the author, “the core solution to life’s problem is a changed attitude to our very experience” (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 31). This means that only through knowledge, a person can control one’s life. The author also draws parallels between Christian and Hindu approaches and notes that “Christ and Yoga are not at odds” (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 34). The general principles of avoiding physical irritants and clearing the mind bring two religious doctrines together.
However, when highlighting each practice, the author argues that immersion in oneself takes effort and says that “yoga is a doing, not a blog writing” (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 39). A number of sutras are presented and explained to reveal yoga practices. Among others, attention is paid to “posture, the control of breath, and the indrawal of sense” (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 45). Meditation practices are an important part of Hindu culture, which overlaps with Christianity in many ways because “one can keep practicing without any urgent deadline to meet” (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 54). Thus, many features bring these two religious doctrines together.
Reflection
As a Christian, I have not tried yoga meditation practices; nevertheless, I am familiar with the concept of Lent. In my culture, immersion in oneself means seeking truth and identifying problems in an internal dialogue with God. Practicing yoga is not only a convenient but also a useful approach to answering oneself to pressing questions by separating from the outside world physically and connecting with it spiritually. Such an experience would be valuable to me, and I would try individual meditation exercises.
Question
After reading the text, I had a question: what principles of immersion in oneself exist in Christianity? In churches, at mass religious events, and elsewhere, pastors usually do not talk about this. Therefore, I wonder if there are other forms of going into the inner world and getting closer to God in addition to praying.
Summary Aspect
Yoga and Lent are closer to each other, which may seem at first sight, and the reading reviewed proves this. Different sutras are examined, and such terms as “ignorance, ego-centeredness, desire, aversion, and longing for continuity” are discussed from a religious perspective (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 27). Many Hindu texts highlight the value of “a determination to change what can be changed” (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 27). In other words, a person’s desire to make one’s life easier and clearer depends on oneself. To do this, people may refer to yoga as a potential alternative to the Christian teaching, which, however, does not aim to “threaten or diminish what Christ does in us” (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 34).
The researcher argues that, despite a simple principle of doing yoga – “sit and breathe” – one should take into account both mental and physical training (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 38). Compared to Lent, meditation practices have a similar goal to restrict the flow of information from the outside world and protecting a person from possible temptations and unnecessary actions and thoughts. The main point is that “we may pray better if we humbly learn from those who practice yoga” (Valkenberg, 2017, p. 51). Therefore, Christians should understand Hindu religious practices and their essence.
Reflective Aspect
For me, trying meditation practices would be an interesting experience. In my culture, praying is the central form of interaction with God. If I learned more about how to clear my mind, I would be able to live more calmly and become less susceptible to negative news. The cultural practices of Hinduism are full of mysteries, but in general, the method of connecting with God through self-knowledge is an accessible form.
Question About the Reading
How long does it take to immerse oneself in meditation completely? The author describes different techniques and exercises, but I want to know how long it will take me to learn and how often I can do it so as not to overload my mind.
Reference
Valkenberg, P. (2017). World religions in dialogue, enhanced edition: A comparative theological approach. Anselm Academic.