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Liberation and Perfection
The ultimate goal of spiritual life
2 teachings in this topic
What is Liberation?
Liberation (moksha) means freedom from material bondage and the cycle of birth and death. The Bhagavad-gita (2.51) teaches that one should perform duty without attachment to attain liberation, and (5.24-26) describes the state of liberation. The Bhagavad-gita (8.15-16) explains that the spiritual world is eternal, and (18.54-56) teaches that the highest liberation is pure devotional service. It is not merging into an impersonal existence but returning to one's eternal spiritual form and relationship with the Supreme. The Nectar of Devotion (Chapter 4) and Perfect Questions Perfect Answers (Chapter 3) teach that love of God is the perfection of liberation.
Key Points
- •Liberation is freedom from material suffering
- •It means regaining one's spiritual identity
- •The goal is not annihilation but eternal life
- •Love of God is the perfection of liberation
The Ultimate Goal
The ultimate goal of life is to develop love of God and return to the spiritual world. The Bhagavad-gita (8.5-7) teaches that one should remember the Supreme at the time of death, and (8.28) states that one who practices devotional service attains the highest goal. The Bhagavad-gita (18.65-66) declares that the Supreme will protect one who surrenders to Him. This is achieved through devotional service performed under the guidance of a spiritual master. Perfect Questions Perfect Answers (Chapter 3) teaches that success is guaranteed for one who practices sincerely.
Key Points
- •Human life is meant for self-realization
- •Material success is temporary and unfulfilling
- •Spiritual success is eternal
- •The process is simple but requires sincerity