Beyond the Physical: Understanding the True Nature of Instincts

Frequently Asked Questions about Instincts and the Path to Self-TranscendenceWhat is the ultimate aim of life for an individual?The aim of life is to move beyond the limitations of individual experience, which is inherently flawed, and to achieve union with the Absolute, the ultimate reality that encompasses all beings. This requires transcending the urge for automatic reactions to external stimuli.What are the two main categories of reactions individuals have to external stimuli?These reactions can be unconscious, in the form of instincts, or conscious, which constitute rational processes. Beyond both lies the realm of intuition and direct realization of the Absolute.What are the most powerful unconscious urges or instincts?The most powerful unconscious urges are self-preservation, often mistaken for a food-seeking instinct, and self-reproduction, often mislabeled as the sex instinct. Both are deeply ingrained in our nature and difficult to control.What is the true nature of the self-preservation and self-reproduction urges?The self-preservation urge is, at its core, the will to live. Food is merely a means to that end. Similarly, the self-reproduction urge is not about individual pleasure but about ensuring the continuation of the species. Sex is the tool used by this urge.Why are these urges so difficult to overcome?These urges are rooted in the biological nature, driven by the will of the species, which is more powerful than individual will. Moreover, nature often obscures their true purpose by creating the illusion that they are about individual pleasure, hindering our understanding and control.What is the role of the desire for knowledge in the process of self-transcendence?The desire for knowledge, unlike other urges, can be seen as a supernatural urge. It involves directing energy towards understanding and ultimately leads to the realization of self-existent knowledge, which is the Absolute itself.What is the key to overcoming the instinctive urges that hinder spiritual progress?The key to overcoming these urges lies in understanding that they are essentially movements of consciousness directed towards the external world. Self-control is achieved by withdrawing these outward tendencies and merging them back into their source, the Absolute.What are the practical steps involved in achieving self-transcendence?Self-transcendence involves a three-fold path: Study: Gaining a clear understanding of the nature of experience and the limitations of individual perception. Reflection: Contemplating the knowledge acquired through study and its implications for spiritual growth. Meditation: The active process of withdrawing consciousness from external attachments and focusing it on the Absolute.This process requires conscious effort, dispassion, perseverance, and ideally, the guidance of a spiritual teacher. By dedicating all actions to the Absolute and cultivating the awareness of unity, one can achieve liberation and become a beacon of spiritual light.Spirituality articles and posts here:https://spiritualseek.online/blog/category/latest-spirituality-essays/