Jnana Yoga

The many paths of Yoga include Raja Yoga (Royal Yoga), Bhakti Yoga (Yoga of Devotion), and Karma Yoga (Yoga of Action), as well as Jnana yoga (Yoga of Knowledge).

The literal translation of Jnana is “knowledge.” Jnana Yoga is the experiential knowledge of the Self. This yogic path emphasizes wisdom through a cognitive engagement with the divine.

The Four Pillars of Knowledge

The sage Adi Shankaracharya taught four different stages on this path known as the Four Pillars of Knowledge. They serve human beings by bringing each practitioner closer to self-realization and devotion.

Viveka (Discernment)

You experience discernment when you observe that constant change happens. At the same time, you notice that the divine being within you doesn't change. Our bodies, thoughts, and emotions renew and fluctuate. And the true self, the part of you that witnesses this process, doesn’t change. Identifying your own ability to witness is a goal of Jnana Yoga.

Vairagya (Renunciation)

Also translated as dispassion, vairagya involves acceptance and a lack of feverishness. You become less attached to the pleasures and pains of the world. Your consciousness remains active and enthusiastic regardless of the fulfillment of desires. When you do, you become free of unsatisfied cravings and attitudes of aversion.

Shatsampatti (The Six Wealth)

Shama, the first wealth, is the tranquility of the mind. Dama, the second wealth, is control over one’s own senses. Titiksha, the third wealth, is endurance or not getting shaken by what happens. Uparati, the fourth wealth, is rejoicing in or being with your own nature or inner self. Shraddha, the fifth wealth, is faith, or recognition of the unknown. Samadhana, the sixth wealth, is contentment or being at ease, calm and serene.

Mumukshatva (Constant Striving for Freedom)

From within, you desire the best. Total freedom, enlightenment, and the highest longing should be the goal of the yogi. These pillars and wealths already live within you, although you don’t know they do. Still, you have the ability to conceive of attaining them through yoga practice. This deep longing for the ultimate experience of bliss is the fourth pillar of knowledge.