Union with God

There are four main paths/steps to achieve yoga (union with God)

karma-yoga – selfless action

jnana-yoga – spiritual knowledge

raja (astanga) yoga – meditation

bhakti-yoga – (devotional service)Bhakti is for those who are less intelligent and predominantly on the emotional level

Actually, many bhakti schools place great emphasis on knowledge but do hold that there is no wisdom (realised knowledge) without surrender to God.This metaphor is used by the personalistic bhakti schools which claim that love of God is the ultimate goal.

The bottom of the ladder is the beginning of spiritual life (selfless actions through karma-yoga).

The top of the ladder represents loving union with God (bhakti).

At a particular stage (on one step) one may be known by that name (e.g. hatha-yogi) but if she progresses she will ultimately come to the topmost platform. Anyone who is making progress should not be criticised even if practicing on a relatively low level.

Sri Eswaran