The Journey of Spiritual Seeking and the Realization of Truth

Many gurus assert that if one is sincere in their search for the self, they instantly find God. However, my own experience over the past four years of seeking has led me to question whether this approach aligns with the true path. It is not uncommon to hear about 'instant' realization, but for many, this is a misplaced notion. Let us explore the genuine journey of seeking and the role of a true spiritual master in obtaining God realization.

Truth and Instant Realization

Those who claim that spiritual realization can occur instantaneously are often seen as false or overly simplistic. God is not as easily obtained as a packet of instant coffee or soup. Instead, God realization requires a genuine and persistent journey. One must seek with an open heart and mind, praying for a chance to meet a true spiritual master who can provide guidance and support on this path.

The scriptures speak to this concept. For example, Christ said, 'I and the Father are one. Nobody can come to the Father except through me.' Similarly, in the Guru Granth Sahib, it is written, 'Without the true Guru, none have ever realized Him, nor will they ever.' This emphasizes the importance of having a genuine spiritual master to guide one towards God.

The Importance of Genuine Sincerity

Sincerity is often confused with the effort one puts into their search, but sincerity itself is a deeper concept. To be sincere is to be genuine, to be one with the true self. It is not a means to an end but the very destination. Hence, stating that one is not sincere in their search simply means that they have yet to realize the true self. Anyone still seeking is, in some sense, not fully sincere, as their pursuit is driven by ego.

It's true that many spiritual seekers find it difficult to let go of the idea of self as they know it and embrace the person their true self is becoming. The process of transforming one's self, or rather, discovering the true self, is not just about adding more knowledge or virtue but about removing what obscures the light of one's true nature. Instead of constantly searching for answers, self-reflection and letting go are more powerful methods.

The Journey of Self-Discovery

Over the past four years, I have noticed changes within myself. Have I become a 'big enough' vessel to hold what I am seeking? Have I grown in depth and width? These questions are not just about advancing externally but internally, as well. True growth comes from within, not from the external search for answers. Look inward for your own answers, for within lies the path to self-realization.

The Illusion of 'I'

Ultimate truth cannot be found by searching for it; it is already within us. The problem is not our sincerity but the misunderstanding of what 'I' means. The 'I' that separates us from our true nature is an illusion. Both the student 'I' and the guru 'I' are mere constructs. Even this teacher, who may be seen as the vehicle for spiritual knowledge, is still part of the illusion.

Paths and gurus are hence not the ultimate path to truth. They are tools, and the real journey is within us. If we believe that we can find liberation through a specific path or guru, we are engaging in a deceptive narrative. This 'I' never existed as a separate entity from God, so 'reunification' is not a meaningful goal. The misunderstanding arises from the belief that one can gain or achieve something separate from God, which is patently false.

Embracing the Present Moment

Many 'spiritual seekers' find comfort in the idea that by following a path and practicing diligently, they can find enlightenment and unity with God. However, this is a fairy tale. True realization is obtaining the truth right here and now, not somewhere in the future or as the result of external actions. No matter what the guru says or how sincere one is, the truth is that transformation comes from a deeper, more profound place.

Embrace the present moment. Let go of the illusion of a self that needs to transform into something else. True spiritual growth is about understanding that the quest for a separate 'self' is an illusion. Seekers must let go of their false idea of self and embrace their true, divine nature. This is not a static achievement but a continuous journey of self-discovery and transformation.