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Maya, in various Eastern philosophies and spiritual traditions, refers to the concept of illusion or the deceptive nature of reality. It is commonly associated with Hinduism, Buddhism, and Advaita Vedanta.
Maya is derived from the Sanskrit word "māyā," which can be translated as "illusion," "magic," or "deception." It represents the veil of illusion that hides the true nature of reality and creates a distorted perception of the world. According to these philosophies, Maya is responsible for the perceived duality, separateness, and impermanence of the phenomenal world.
In Hinduism, Maya is often described as the cosmic illusion created by the divine power of Brahman (the ultimate reality). It is believed that Maya veils the individual soul (Atman) and prevents it from realizing its true nature as identical to Brahman. The goal of spiritual practice in Hinduism is to transcend Maya and attain liberation (Moksha) by realizing the ultimate reality beyond the illusory world.
Similarly, in Buddhism, Maya is viewed as the fundamental delusion that leads to suffering. The concept is closely related to the teaching of Anicca (impermanence), Dukkha (suffering), and Anatta (non-self). According to Buddhism, the craving and attachment caused by the illusion of Maya perpetuate the cycle of rebirth and prevent the attainment of enlightenment (Nirvana).
Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy, emphasizes the illusory nature of the world and asserts that there is only one ultimate reality, Brahman. The phenomenal world, including the individual self (ego) and all its experiences, is considered as an illusion projected by Maya. The practice of Advaita Vedanta aims to realize the true nature of oneself as identical to Brahman and to transcend the illusory perception of duality.
In summary, Maya is a concept that points to the deceptive nature of reality, the illusory nature of the phenomenal world, and the veil that prevents individuals from recognizing their true nature. It is a fundamental concept in various Eastern philosophies, guiding seekers on the path of self-realization and spiritual liberation.
IT does not take much to realize that some of the greatest classic writers of Iran were influenced by non islamic far eastern philosophies. After all these philosophies are not religions but templates for a good content living
these thoughts are dedicated to Soosan.
My eight year old israeli niece asked her teacher, why are we put on this earth? the teacher thought she wanted to know the basics of reproduction but my niece said, i know all that but what is the purpose of us being here? The clever teacher turned the question to my niece, what do you think?
we are here, so that we can study, learn and find new things and then help others
not bad for an eight year old .
and Rumi would have said
In a way, we are all related..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D26ywYKD0MU
