The Goal of Life: Self-Realization or Liberation

The concept of the goal of life can vary significantly depending on one's cultural, philosophical, and spiritual perspective. This article delves into the two primary goals commonly discussed: self-realization and liberation. We will explore the definitions, philosophical contexts, and goals associated with each, and how they may complement each other in achieving a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Self-Realization

Definition

Self-realization is the process of recognizing and fulfilling one's potential and true self. It involves understanding one's values and striving for a sense of authenticity. This journey often includes personal growth, self-awareness, creativity, and the pursuit of passions that resonate deeply with an individual.

Philosophical Context

Many philosophical and spiritual traditions, such as humanism and certain branches of Eastern philosophies like Buddhism, view self-realization as a path to personal happiness and fulfillment. This path emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, fostering creativity, and pursuing personal passions.

Goal

The overarching goal of self-realization is to achieve a profound understanding of oneself, which leads to a more meaningful and engaged life. This includes developing a deep sense of self-awareness, understanding one's values, and living a life aligned with those values.

Liberation

Definition

Liberation is often defined as the freedom from suffering, ignorance, or the constrains of the ego. In various spiritual traditions, it can mean liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara) or freedom from societal and psychological constraints.

Philosophical Context

In Hinduism and Buddhism, the concept of liberation, known as moksha in Hinduism and nirvana in Buddhism, is considered the ultimate goal of life. These traditions view liberation as representing a state of enlightenment and freedom from suffering. In a broader sense, it can also refer to social and political liberation.

Goal

The primary goal of liberation is to transcend worldly attachments and limitations, achieving peace and ultimate freedom. This involves letting go of external and internal constraints, allowing an individual to find a state of enlightenment and true freedom.

Complementary Goals

Self-realization and liberation can be seen as complementary goals. Achieving self-realization often leads to a deeper understanding of oneself, which can facilitate the pursuit of liberation by freeing individuals from limiting beliefs and societal pressures. Conversely, the pursuit of liberation can enhance self-realization by freeing individuals from constraints that hinder personal growth and true understanding.

The Ultimate Goal: Pleasing God

Some argue that the ultimate goal of life, whether self-realization or liberation, is to please a higher power, often referred to as God. In Hindu philosophy, for instance, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Krishna, is seen as the original source of all self-realization.

'Factually the Supreme Personality of Godhead is the original source of all self-realization. Consequently, the goal of all auspicious activities—karma, j?āna, and bhakti—is the Supreme Personality of Godhead—Lord Hari.' - Srimad Bhagavatam 4.31.13

According to the Bhagavad Gita, our eternal identity is as part and parcel of Krishna, and our true nature is to love and be loved by Him. Ultimately, the goal is to engage in unmotivated, uninterrupted loving devotional service to Krishna. True fulfillment and ultimate bliss arise from pleasing the senses of Krishna through selfless service, as opposed to seeking personal sense gratification.

'The desire to gratify one’s own senses is kama, lust, but the desire to please the senses of Lord Krsna is prema, love.' - Chaitanya Charitamrta Adi Lila 4.165

This understanding provides a framework for living a life that is deeply fulfilling and meaningful, rooted in a spiritual practice that aligns one's actions, thoughts, and desires with the will of the divine.

Thank You.

Keywords

self-realization, liberation, ultimate goal of life