#286 Celebrating Christmas - a yogi’s perspective
Description
In this talk, Acharya das explores the concept of Christmas from a yogic perspective. He begins by examining what Christmas means in contemporary society versus its original spiritual significance.
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus (Yeshua), known as Christ or Messiah, which means "the anointed one" and Acharya das discusses how yogis from the Vedic tradition would view and celebrate such a sacred day, emphasizing that they would honor any spiritual personality bringing enlightenment to mankind, regardless of tradition.
The talk delves into Jesus's core teachings about loving God with one's entire being and loving others as oneself, contrasting spiritual consciousness with material consciousness. He also highlights Jesus's teachings on detachment from worldly possessions and worries, drawing parallels with yogic concepts like an atmarama, or self-satisfied transcendentalist. Throughout the talk, Acharya das critiques modern materialism and consumerism, offering that Jesus's message was fundamentally about spiritual transformation as opposed to worldly pursuits. The talk concludes with reflections on how spiritual growth can bring an experience of true fulfillment which the materialistic lifestyle cannot.




