After all we are all human beings created by one God, on one Earth, in complete unison.
Shri Mataji
Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi's declaration that we are all human beings created by one God, on one Earth, in complete unison is not merely a beautiful sentiment but a profound spiritual truth. Her teachings, in harmony with the ancient wisdom of Native American traditions, illuminate a path toward the realization of this truth. By embracing the principles of Sahaja Yoga, cultivating a reverential relationship with Mother Earth, and awakening the divine energy within, humanity can transcend the limitations of its fragmented consciousness and step into a new era of collective unity and spiritual enlightenment.
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Shri Mataji's Vision of Universal Unity
- 3. The Spiritual Foundation: Sahaja Yoga and Self-Realization
- 4. Mother Earth in Spiritual Consciousness
- 5. Native American Wisdom: An Ancient Understanding of Unity
- 6. Convergence: Shri Mataji and Native American Spirituality
- 7. The Mooladhara Chakra and the Earth Connection
- 8. Implications for Contemporary Spirituality
- 9. Conclusion
- 10. References
1. Introduction
The profound statement by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi, After all we are all human beings created by one God, on one Earth, in complete unison,
serves as the cornerstone of a spiritual philosophy that emphasizes the fundamental unity of all humanity. This paper explores the depth of this message, examining its alignment with the spiritual teachings of Shri Mataji and the innate wisdom of Native American traditions. Both perspectives, though originating from different cultural and historical contexts, converge on a shared reverence for Mother Earth and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all life. By analyzing the principles of Sahaja Yoga, the significance of the Mooladhara Chakra, and the spiritual ecology of Indigenous peoples, this paper will illuminate a path toward a more harmonious and integrated global consciousness.
2. Shri Mataji's Vision of Universal Unity
Shri Mataji's teachings are rooted in the concept of a singular, universal family. She consistently dismantled the artificial barriers of nationality, race, and religion, urging humanity to recognize its shared spiritual heritage. Her words, We are part and parcel of that One Primordial Being. We are cells in the body of that Great Being,
[1] articulate a vision of humanity as a single, interconnected organism. This perspective transcends mere tolerance, advocating for a profound realization of our intrinsic oneness. Shri Mataji posited that this realization is not an abstract ideal but an attainable state of being, a collective consciousness she referred to as the Virata.[2]
3. The Spiritual Foundation: Sahaja Yoga and Self-Realization
The vehicle for achieving this state of universal unity, according to Shri Mataji, is Sahaja Yoga, a method of meditation she founded in 1970. The term Sahaja, meaning spontaneous
and born with you,
and Yoga, meaning union,
encapsulates the core principle of this practice: the spontaneous awakening of the Kundalini energy within each individual, leading to a union with the divine. This awakening, known as self-realization, is described as a tangible experience, a flow of cool vibrations on the central nervous system. Shri Mataji democratized spirituality by asserting that self-realization is the birthright of every human being, offered freely and without the need for arduous penance or blind faith.[3] Through Sahaja Yoga, the individual consciousness can merge with the collective consciousness, much like a drop of water merging with the ocean, fostering a sense of balance, peace, and interconnectedness.
4. Mother Earth in Spiritual Consciousness
Central to Shri Mataji's teachings is a profound reverence for Mother Earth. She often spoke of the Earth as a living, nurturing entity, a manifestation of the divine feminine. In a 1999 address, she stated, The Mother of Shri Ganesha is this Prithvi, is this Earth, the Mother Earth and that's why we should look after the Mother Earth....We can glorify Her, we can beautify Her, we can do all kinds of things.
[4] This reverence is not merely symbolic; it is deeply intertwined with the subtle system of chakras within the human body. The Mooladhara Chakra, the root chakra located at the base of the spine, is intrinsically connected to the Earth element. Its qualities of innocence, purity, and wisdom are nurtured by our connection to the Earth. Shri Mataji emphasized that respecting and caring for the Earth is not just an ecological duty but a spiritual necessity, essential for our own inner balance and well-being.
5. Native American Wisdom: An Ancient Understanding of Unity
The spiritual traditions of Native American peoples resonate deeply with Shri Mataji's message of unity and reverence for the Earth. For centuries, Indigenous cultures have cultivated a sacred relationship with the natural world, viewing the Earth not as a resource to be exploited but as a mother to be honored. Chief Luther Standing Bear of the Oglala Sioux eloquently expressed this connection: The old people came literally to love the soil and they sat or reclined on the ground with a feeling of being close to a mothering power.... The soil was soothing, strengthening, cleansing, and healing.
[5] This profound bond with the Earth fosters a sense of kinship with all living things, a recognition that all are part of a delicate and interconnected web of life. The words of White Shield, an Arikara Chief, echo this sentiment: The color of skin makes no difference. What is good and just for one is good and just for the other, and the Great Spirit made all men brothers.
[6]
6. Convergence: Shri Mataji and Native American Spirituality
The parallels between Shri Mataji's teachings and Native American spirituality are striking. Both traditions emphasize the following:
- Universal Oneness: Shri Mataji's concept of the Virata and the Native American understanding of the Great Spirit both point to a singular, unifying force that permeates all of creation.
- Reverence for Mother Earth: Both traditions view the Earth as a sacred, living entity, a source of life, and a spiritual guide.
- Inner Peace as the Foundation for World Peace: Black Elk, an Oglala Sioux holy man, stated that true peace begins within the souls of men.[7] This aligns perfectly with Shri Mataji's teaching that self-realization is the key to collective harmony.
- The Divine Feminine: The reverence for Mother Earth in both traditions highlights the importance of the divine feminine principle in spiritual life.
7. The Mooladhara Chakra and the Earth Connection
The Mooladhara Chakra, as described by Shri Mataji, provides a tangible link between human spirituality and the Earth. This chakra, which governs our innocence, purity, and wisdom, is made of the Earth element. Its coral red color symbolizes the life-giving energy of the Earth. By sitting on the ground, we can connect with the Earth's energy, which helps to cleanse and balance the Mooladhara Chakra. This practice, so central to Native American traditions, is thus given a profound spiritual significance in the context of Sahaja Yoga. A balanced Mooladhara Chakra not only enhances our spiritual growth but also strengthens our connection to the Earth, fostering a sense of responsibility for its well-being.
8. Implications for Contemporary Spirituality
In an era marked by ecological crises, social divisions, and a pervasive sense of alienation, the convergent wisdom of Shri Mataji and Native American traditions offers a powerful antidote. Their teachings call for a radical shift in consciousness, a move away from a fragmented, materialistic worldview toward one that is holistic, integrated, and reverential. By cultivating a deeper connection with the Earth and recognizing our shared spiritual identity, we can begin to heal the divisions that plague our world and create a more sustainable and compassionate future. The practice of Sahaja Yoga, with its emphasis on en masse self-realization, provides a practical means for achieving this transformation on a global scale.
9. Conclusion
Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi's declaration that we are all human beings created by one God, on one Earth, in complete unison
is not merely a beautiful sentiment but a profound spiritual truth. Her teachings, in harmony with the ancient wisdom of Native American traditions, illuminate a path toward the realization of this truth. By embracing the principles of Sahaja Yoga, cultivating a reverential relationship with Mother Earth, and awakening the divine energy within, humanity can transcend the limitations of its fragmented consciousness and step into a new era of collective unity and spiritual enlightenment.
10. References
[1] Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi. What are we inside. Birmingham, UK, August 9th, 1980.[2] Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi. Cure that Left Vishuddi. Shudy Camps, England, 1988-08-20.
[3] Sahaja Yoga. Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi.
[4] Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi. Shri Ganesha Puja. Cabella, Italy, September 25, 1999.
[5] Chief Luther Standing Bear. Wisdom of the Elders. First People.
[6] White Shield. Wisdom of the Elders. First People.
[7] Black Elk. The True Peace. First People.