Jnana Yoga facts for kids
Jñāna yoga (say "Gnya-na yoga") is a special way of learning and growing in Hinduism. It's often called the "path of knowledge" or the "path of self-realization." Imagine trying to understand yourself deeply – that's what Jñāna yoga is all about! It's one of three main paths people follow to reach a goal called moksha, which means freedom or liberation. The other two paths are karma yoga (the path of action) and bhakti yoga (the path of loving devotion).
What is Jnana Yoga?
Jñāna yoga is a spiritual practice where you ask big questions like "Who am I?" or "What am I really?" It's not just about reading books, but about truly understanding yourself and the world around you. This path helps people discover their true self, often called the Atman or soul.
How Do People Practice Jnana Yoga?
People who follow Jñāna yoga often work with a teacher, called a guru. A guru helps guide them on their journey of discovery. They might:
- Study ancient texts and teachings.
- Meditate deeply to quiet their minds.
- Think carefully about what they learn and experience.
- Reach new understandings about themselves and life.
Where Can We Learn About Jnana Yoga?
The ideas behind Jñāna yoga are very old. You can find them in important Hindu scriptures and texts. Two of the most famous are the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. These books share wisdom about the nature of the self and the universe.
