By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Jnana Yoga is often referred to as, “union by knowledge.” Jnana is also known as, “the path of wisdom.” A Jnana Yoga practitioner dedicates much time toward practice, research, and self-analysis. Traditionally, this method of Yoga was practiced by members of the Brahman (priest) caste.

The reason for this was based upon a prerequisite of education and general knowledge. If one has limited abilities to read, then primary education must be attained first. Add to this, the type of reading which one must perform - the absorption and sorting of facts from scriptures and educational books with reliable information.

To read reliable information is to expand the mind in a positive direction. To read misinformation leads one to “spout off” facts, which do not exist. Have you ever heard someone make an erroneous statement, based upon an “urban legend” Email? Most of this material is political, but misinformation happens in Yoga circles too.

We live at a time when many people have access to the Internet. Yet, how much of the information on the Internet is accurate? It might be wise to double check your facts before investing too much time in them. There are people who buy magazines or newspapers, which are full of slanderous journalism.

We used to call this form of writing, “yellow journalism.” Apparently, it is quite profitable to create a tabloid full of unreliable misinformation and sensational stories, based upon fabrication. However, some people read the stories, and often repeat them as facts. You might think, “This has no impact on reality, and people have a right to entertainment, even if it is slanderous.”

Consider this: These same people, who read misinformation and believe it, have just as much right to vote in the next election as you do. You may invest your time researching the facts, while someone else, with an equal vote, bases his or her decisions on misinformation. This is the information age, but it is also the misinformation age.

What are some “tell tale” signs of misinformation? When someone claims to be the guide to the only true path – watch out. This is a great strategy for creating an “us against them” mentality. Exclusive and elitist groups have misinformed humanity long before yellow journalism became popular.

As this applies to Yoga, politics, religion, philosophy and life itself - beware of speakers and authorities who seek to divide. The best path for humankind to take is paved with loving kindness. The words of an enlightened spiritual leader are based upon love, tolerance, mercy, charity, forgiveness, and compassion.

How can anyone take a message of kindness and turn it into a message of hate? Unfortunately, it has happened throughout history because people did not invest the time in education, research, and self-analysis. Jnana Yoga is the path of wisdom, but the truth can be felt in your heart. Ahimsa (non-harming) feels right, but to harm another, always feels wrong.

© Copyright 2008 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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