History of Meditation Flashcards
What does the “big bang” symbolize in meditation history?
It symbolizes a cosmic vibration, the “big Om,” marking the beginning of the universe.
What led to the creation of sound in meditation philosophy?
Movement within the absolute pure consciousness created friction, leading to the sound “Om.”
What does “Om” signify in the universe’s creation?
“Om” is the first sound from pure consciousness, diversifying into all sounds and vibrations.
What are the 4 Vedas?
Rig, Sama, Yajur, and Atharva Vedas.
What is the Upanishad’s literal meaning?
“To sit near,” implying receiving teachings directly from a teacher.
What was the Sat Yuga era like?
A golden age with harmony, enlightenment, and absence of conflict and disease.
What is the significance of Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as Rama?
To restore life’s values and provide the Ramayana and Yoga Vasistha teachings.
What are the 4 paths of yoga introduced in the Bhagavad Gita?
Bhakti (devotion), Karma (service), Gyana (knowledge), Raja (techniques).
What characterizes Kali Yuga?
A time of chaos, confusion, and dominance by tamas guna (inertia).
What are the spiritual knots in Kali Yuga?
Kama (excessive desires), Karma (past actions), and Avidya (ignorance).
What is the role of meditation in Kali Yuga?
To begin the spiritual journey by learning techniques and remembering our essence.
Who are some notable meditation teachers in the Shankara tradition?
Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, Ramana Maharshi, among others.
What is the aim of Primordial Sound Meditation?
To combine various teachings for transcending consciousness and planting intention seeds.
What is meditation’s ultimate goal?
A journey back to our source to realize the universe is an expression of Brahman.
