Man is important in one sense only. He was made in the image of God: That is his importance. He is not important for his body, ego, or personality. His constant affirmation of ego-consciousness is the source of all his problems.
I am a spark from the Infinite. _x000D_ I am not flesh and bones. _x000D_ I am light.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that our true essence goes beyond physical form; we are fundamentally a part of a greater spiritual reality.
Paramahansa Yogananda's quote emphasizes the idea that human existence is not merely defined by our physical bodies but is instead a manifestation of a deeper spiritual light. By identifying as 'a spark from the Infinite,' he encourages us to recognize our connection to a higher consciousness and the essence of our being that transcends the material world. This perspective invites a contemplation of our true nature and the importance of spiritual realization in understanding ourselves.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a meditation retreat, I shared this quote to inspire participants to connect with their inner selves.
More from Paramahansa Yogananda
All quotes βWhen, by meditation, we withdraw restless thoughts from the lake of the mind, we behold our soul, a perfect reflection of Spirit.
It is wisest to be impartial. If you have health, but are attached to it, you will always be afraid of losing it. And if you fear that loss, but become ill, you will suffer. Why not remain forever joyful in the Self?
From joy people are born; for joy they live; in joy they melt at death. Death is an ecstasy, for it removes the burden of the body and frees the soul of all pain springing from body identification. It is the cessation of pain and sorrow.
It is better to meditate a little bit with depth than to mediate long with the mind running here and there. If you do not make an effort to control the mind it will go on doing as it pleases, no matter how long you sit to meditate.
Millions of people never analyze themselves. Mentally they are mechanical products of the factory of their environment, preoccupied with breakfast, lunch, and dinner, working and sleeping, and going here and there to be entertained. They don't know what or why they are seeking, nor why they never realize complete happiness and lasting satisfaction. By evading self-analysis, people go on being robots, conditioned by their environment. True self-analysis is the greatest art of progress.
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