Path of Knowledge
Introduction to the Path of Knowledge
The path of knowledge (Skt: ज्ञानमार्ग, Gyaanmaarg) is a spiritual path. It is a way of life which is based on knowledge. It involves identifying and eliminating one's ignorance, seeking knowledge and abiding in the knowledge. This path takes a seeker to the ultimate knowledge, frees the seeker from ignorance. End of ignorance leads to end of bondage and suffering.
It is also concerned with bringing others out of ignorance, whenever possible, utilising proper means and skills.
Traditional recommended practice on the path of knowledge is : listening, contemplating and abiding.
Characteristics
The path of knowledge is a subtractive or reductionist path which finally leads to agnosticism and surrender.
The knowledge gained via the path of knowledge is mostly negative knowledge. Any positive knowledge is shown to be merely ignorance. Thus it brings the seeker to a realisation that the true nature of everything, this whole existence is emptiness.
This path is mostly atheistic. Some traditions do accommodate some form of theistic elements if that benefits the seekers.
It is a very ancient path, probably thousands of years old. It is found in all parts of the planet in various forms, which provide the same essential knowledge.
Path of knowledge is a direct path, which means the knowledge is achieved instantly, without any delay. There are no long term practices, no rituals, no deities, no worship, no beliefs, nothing esoteric, and no hierarchies. There is no progression. It is also called the pathless path.
However it requires a seeker with the desired qualities for it to be instantaneous. Mostly, seekers do not have these ideal qualities and so some progressive means are provided to help them achieve their goal.
Goal
The goal of the path of knowledge is freedom from ignorance.
Fruits
- The path of knowledge immediately liberates. Self-knowledge itself is liberation or absolute freedom.
- The individual attains a state of Awareness. Is freed from Animalist Tendencies.
- The seeker attains a state of unbroken bliss.
- There is complete destruction of sorrow.
- Intellect becomes pure and illuminated.
Progress beyond human form
- Individual's evolution is speeded up. Entry beyond human stage is now possible.
- Life becomes less impulsive, free from unnecessary desires and is ordinary and simple.
- There is freedom from bondages of all kinds. Increased intelligence destroys subordination.
- Conduct becomes natural and ethical. Fearlessness arises.
- Human qualities such as kindness, compassion and love, naturally arise.
Traditions
Many traditions are found under the path of knowledge, some are new and some are thousands of years old.
Teachers
Countless teachers are on the path of knowledge, who kept the knowledge alive and are actively spreading it.
Scriptures
Thousands of scriptures are available in the form of texts books. Vedas and Upanishads are paramount among them.
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