Understanding the Versatile Self

The concept of a true Vaishnava extends well beyond labels and societal constructs. Rami Sivan’s compelling statement, 'When I am with Vaishnavas I am a Vaishnava, When I am with Shaivas I am a Shaiva,' illustrates the fluidity and versatility of self-identification within spiritual practices. This fluidity is not a mere outward change in behavior but a profound internal alignment with the perspective and principles of the community one associates with. It underscores the idea that the core essence of one's beliefs remains unchanged, but the expression and understanding can vary widely based on context and community.

Spiritual Ignorance and Its Consequences

Within the K???a consciousness movement, it is often emphasized that all forms of self-identification by gender, race, class, caste, or sect are forms of spiritual ignorance (avidya). Avidya is a concept central to both the Sankhya and Yoga philosophies, which refers to a lack of spiritual understanding or ignorance of one's true nature as a eternal, pure consciousness. This ignorance is said to be the root cause of attraction (rāga) and aversion (dve?a), leading to cycles of suffering and repeated births and deaths (samsara).

The Katha Upanishad vividly captures this idea in verse 4:11: manasaivedam āptavyam āptavya? neha nānāsti kcosa, mtyo?a sa mtyu gacchati ya iha nāneva payati. This verse translates to: 'By contemplation alone is this to be realized. There is no difference here. Whoever perceives anything like multiplicity here goes from death to death.' It emphasizes that true realization comes through inner contemplation and understanding, and any perception of multiplicity (different identities) leads to continued suffering and rebirth.

A Service-Oriented Existence

Another critical perspective is the dedication of one's life to service (paropakāra). In the K???a consciousness movement, it is often said, 'paropakāra yebhih arīra ibhāsate' (The body is seen as the servant of others).

Rami Sivan’s statement, 'I am a jīvātma in a human body due to my past karma and in this life this body has been dedicated to service of others, therefore by karma I am a sūdra,' highlights the belief that each individual's role in life is defined by their past karma and current circumstances. In this perspective, one’s birth and social status are seen as a result of past actions and current dedication to service.

Followers and Disciples

Further, the term 'dāsa-dāsa-dāsa-anudāsa' (slave of a slave of a slave of [K???a] and a follower) represents a humble recognition of one's relationship to K???a and the broader community of followers. It is a way of acknowledging the ongoing process of spiritual service and the importance of one's role within the larger context of devotion.

Conclusion

The ideas presented by Rami Sivan and the teachings of the K???a consciousness movement offer a profound path towards self-realization and spiritual liberation. By transcending narrow sectarian boundaries and understanding the fluid nature of self-identification, one can align with the higher truths of K???a consciousness. The journey towards realization is a continuous process of contemplation, service, and self-transformation, free from the shackles of illusory identifications that lead to suffering and Samsara.

Keywords

Vaishnavism, Bhakti, Avidya, Sankhya, Dharma

References

Katha Upanishad 4:11