The Role of Religion in Personal Growth

Note: This is the 7th reflection in a series inspired by Self-Unfoldment by Swami Chinmayananda.

Religion is a remedy for a certain kind of unrest that one feels even when one seems to have everything that life has to offer. It’s much more than just rituals; it serves as a method for training the mind and intellect and helps us grasp the bigger picture of the universe and our role in it.

When we think of religion as a “science of life,” we can find the inner strength, balance, and grace needed to navigate life’s uncertainties. Embracing this approach can change our perspective, giving us the tools to live honestly, courageously, and with conviction. 

The main purpose of religion is not to fulfill all our desires or to improve the world’s conditions; rather, it’s about helping us handle whatever life throws our way with calmness and grace. Religion can be seen as philosophy in practice, offering techniques for mastering life. It goes beyond just traditional beliefs and rituals, leading us to understand broader themes that can resonate with anyone feeling anxious or restless.

Spiritual wisdom, similar to scientific knowledge, is acquired through systematic analysis and experience. The insights passed down by sages and encapsulated in sacred texts offer the key to mastering our own lives. These texts serve as a roadmap to align our thoughts, feelings, and actions, which can lead to deeper satisfaction and success. This wisdom isn’t limited to one tradition—it spans across religions like Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and more. While scientists focus on understanding the world around us through observation, spiritual seekers dive into scripture, reflecting and contemplating its teachings to discover Self.

Religion serves as a technique for perfecting life and achieving self-mastery. It provides a pathway for creating an effective personality, even for someone who feels shattered and depressed by disappointments. 

An example of how spiritual wisdom can transform one’s life is that of Prince Arjuna (from Mahabharata) during the war at Kurukshetra. When he initially feels overwhelmed by despair and indecision, the dialogue with Shri Krishna—the eighteen chapters of the Bhagavad Geeta—transforms him remarkably. Arjuna’s newfound energy and courage, inspired by Shri Krishna’s teachings, show us how sacred texts can nurture resilience and purpose in our lives. By learning from Arjuna’s journey, we equip ourselves with principles to tackle life’s challenges. This exploration opens up a fresh take on living with mastery and purpose, helping us align our actions with our inner selves.

By embracing a spiritual path that encourages self-mastery and effective living, we can transform even the toughest challenges into stepping stones for growth and fulfillment.