Q: How does Aurobindo describe maya as the power of becoming
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Sri Aurobindo’s conception of Maya is a profound aspect of his philosophical and spiritual thought. He views Maya not merely as illusion or deception but as a dynamic power of becoming that plays a crucial role in the manifestation of the universe. Aurobindo’s interpretation of Maya is deeply embedded in his integral philosophy and reflects his understanding of the relationship between the finite and the infinite, the material and the spiritual, and the nature of existence itself.
1. Maya as the Creative Power
In Aurobindo’s philosophy, Maya is described as the divine Shakti or the creative power of the Absolute. It is the force that enables the Infinite (Brahman) to manifest itself in the finite world. Rather than being a mere illusion, Maya is the means by which the divine consciousness expresses itself through the multiplicity of forms and phenomena in the universe. This understanding positions Maya as a positive and essential aspect of existence, facilitating the process of becoming.
2. The Role of Maya in Creation
Aurobindo elucidates that Maya is responsible for the creation of the material world, where the divine reality is veiled and transformed into diverse forms. He emphasizes that this power does not create an illusory world but rather a real manifestation of the divine that is subject to the laws of manifestation and evolution. Thus, Maya operates as a force that allows the unmanifested potential of the Absolute to become manifest, leading to the emergence of the cosmos.
3. The Interplay of Unity and Diversity
Maya embodies the interplay between unity and diversity. While the ultimate reality is one (Brahman), Maya allows for the differentiation and diversification of existence. Aurobindo argues that the play of Maya gives rise to the variety of experiences, forms, and beings in the world, all of which are expressions of the same underlying divine reality. This view aligns with his integral philosophy, which seeks to reconcile the apparent contradictions of existence, emphasizing that the multiplicity of the world is an expression of the divine play (Lila) of consciousness.
4. Maya and the Spiritual Journey
For Aurobindo, understanding Maya is crucial for spiritual realization. He suggests that while Maya allows for the experience of individuality and the material world, it can also create the illusion of separateness and lead to ignorance of the true nature of reality. The spiritual journey involves transcending this illusion by recognizing that all forms and experiences are ultimately expressions of the same divine consciousness.
Aurobindo describes the spiritual seeker’s task as one of discerning the divine presence within the veils of Maya. Through practices like meditation, self-inquiry, and the pursuit of knowledge, individuals can pierce the veil of illusion and experience the unity of existence. This realization of the underlying oneness behind the multiplicity allows for a deeper understanding of both oneself and the universe.
5. Maya and the Process of Evolution
Aurobindo also connects Maya to the evolutionary process. He posits that the evolution of consciousness is facilitated by the dynamic interplay of Maya. As consciousness evolves through different stages of manifestation, it becomes increasingly aware of its divine nature. Maya thus serves as both the medium and the challenge for spiritual evolution, where the material forms evolve into higher states of consciousness.
Conclusion
In summary, Sri Aurobindo’s description of Maya as the power of becoming highlights its essential role in the manifestation of the universe and the expression of divine consciousness. By framing Maya as a creative and dynamic force rather than mere illusion, Aurobindo provides a more profound understanding of existence, emphasizing the interconnectedness of unity and diversity. His insights into Maya encourage a holistic spiritual journey that seeks to recognize the divine in all forms and transcend the limitations imposed by the illusion of separateness. This perspective not only enriches individual spiritual exploration but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of the world as a manifestation of the divine reality.