Sadhana principles
Sanatana Dharma is based on the Vedas, which convey that the highest objective of man is Moksha – liberation from transmigratory existence. This arises out of knowledge of one’s own Self – the true nature of which is pure existence, knowledge and bliss – Sat-chit-ananda.
Sanatana Dharma places great importance on the role of the Guru in the process of spiritual development of an individual directed towards Moksha.
Abiding by the Guru’s instructions and acting in accordance to the scriptural teachings are most essential in Sadhana (the process of seeking Self-realisation) and for the Sadhaka (the seeker who is engaged in the process).
Jagadguru Sri Adi Shankaracharya, by way of penning commentaries, expounded the pristine philosophy of non-dualism as present in the Upanishads, Brahma Sutras and the Bhagavad Gita. Sri Shankaracharya wrote a number of Prakarana Granthas that tersely enlighten the Sadhaka of the state of Advaita. Some of the Prakarana Granthas also help the Sadhaka to review the transitory nature of the world and drive the mind to the unchanging eternal Self. In others such as UPADESHA PANCHAKAM, the Jagadguru has clearly laid guidelines for a Sadhaka. The Sadhaka should repeatedly remember the verses of the Upadesha Panchakam and the instructions given therein and reflect on whether he is adhering well to these guidelines.
Today, followers of Sanatana Dharma are distributed across the globe. A number of people use the Internet to learn more about our Shastras and Advaita, as expounded by Jagadguru Sri Adi Shankaracharya. Many even use online discussion forums and groups to further their knowledge of Advaita Vedanta. A good number of such seekers are earnest and thirsty for Jnana. Many have questions that go unanswered or persist as doubts in the mind.
With the blessings of Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Bharati Tirtha Mahaswamigal, this online resource is being started by the Sringeri Sharada Peetham on the auspicious Vyasa Poornima day (July 18 2008) to assist sincere seekers. The section will serve as a general guideline for all Sadhakas and will feature answers for questions that are generally raised by Sadhakas and also serve to dispel doubts that arise in their minds.