What at times may seem somewhat perplexing is one of the core concepts on the spiritual path—that we humans are created in the image of God.
Notwithstanding that all around us is the damage and destruction perpetrated by rather ungodly behaviour by humans—wars and environmental destruction being just two large examples—a look in the mirror may at times provoke images of ourselves we personally may wish were more ‘holy.’
How can this be? Do I need a new mirror and/or a new pair of eyeglasses? Perhaps. But more to the point is that self-perception does not exist in a vacuum. It is the sum total of our behavior—thoughts and deeds, and views of life—and should our behaviour be predominantly non-godly, viewing ourselves as created in His image may prove decidedly difficult to do.
One antidote, it might be said, is to assess our behavior, look honestly in the mirror, and improve upon it as we deem proper.
Fivefold Path provides the tools to manifest an ultimate endeavor to answer the question, WHO AM I, and am I really created in God’s image?
Fivefold Path may not be the only way. For example, many use the 12 Step program of Alcoholics Anonymous—and other 12 Step programs—to improve self-awareness as well as help reduce unhealthy—and often dangerous—habits that may be termed addictions or counterproductive. And several other self-help programs are available.
As Fivefold Path— Yajnya, Daan, Tapa, Karma and Swadhyaya—provides valuable mechanisms that directly target the many kinds of pollution—including thought pollution—that surround us, of the several self-help choices, it stands out. Its simplicity is wonderful.
Certainly Yajnya—purification of atmosphere through the agency of fire—is the core, the catalyst, for self-improvement and the vehicle that gets us closer to living in consonance with the image of God. The foundation of Yajnya of course is twice daily Agnihotra.
To not avail oneself and take advantage of Yajnya is as if you have tied one hand behind your back. This may be an interesting challenge, but the use of both hands in today’s world is not the luxury it might have been considered in earlier decades, but a necessity in today’s ravaged world on an often-teetering planet.
If we seek challenges, fear not. Even conscientious practice of Agnihotra and Fivefold Path will not absolve us of the plethora of life’s challenges. The challenges, however, may prove to be more manageable for one determined to lead with the five practices.
The point here is that the value of what some of us have been engaged in for nearly 50 years is such that not taking advantage of its blessings— nor applying intense effort—may be regretful.
The blessings are here and available and ready to be harvested.