Hour 45 Meditation – Jyoti Dhyana – Meditation on the Inner Light
Jyoti Dhyana – Meditation on the Inner Light
Introduction to Jyoti Dhyana: The Meditation on the Inner Light
Jyoti Dhyana, or the Meditation on the Inner Light, is a powerful and transfigurative practice based in the Indian Yogic Tradition. “Jyoti” refers to light in Sanskrit, and this meditation practice revolves around gazing into the inner light, which represents the supreme level of consciousness and spiritual awakening.
Light is considered a symbol of knowledge, consciousness, and the divine in most traditions. Jyoti Dhyana is founded on the timeless wisdom that there is a divine inner light in every individual. The practice tries to access this inner light, go beyond the material world, and become one with the universal source of light.
The Jyoti Dhyana practice assists people in directing their focus inward, where wisdom and consciousness are found, and transcending the material world to reach a higher level of spiritual awakening and inner peace.
The Symbolism of Light in Yogic Philosophy
In Yogic philosophy, light represents the essence of the Self, wisdom and supreme consciousness. It depicts purity of soul that is not touched by the worldly distractions. It indicates divine presence in every individual that lights the path to self-realization and enlightenment of the soul.
The Sankhya philosophy, which is a central feature of Vedantic teachings, asserts that consciousness is pure and radiant in its nature. Like physical light removes darkness, the inner light of consciousness removes ignorance and delusion, imparting clarity, awareness, and final liberation.
The Practice of Jyoti Dhyana
In Jyoti Dhyana, the meditator focuses on the inner light, either visualized or felt as a divine flame, which becomes the object of deep concentration. The practice is aimed at purifying the mind, opening the heart, and elevating one’s consciousness to higher realms of awareness.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to practicing Jyoti Dhyana:
1. Preparation: Creating the Sacred Space
Posture: Maintain a stable and comfortable meditation posture like Padmasana (Lotus Pose) or Sukhasana (Easy Pose). Keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and hands on your knees or in your lap.
Environment: Select a quiet, serene environment that is free from distractions. Lower the lights or light a candle to create an atmosphere for practice.
Breath: Begin with deep, slow breathing to center your mind and body. Inhale through the nose, holding the breath briefly, and exhale through the mouth. Repeat for several rounds to relax.
Setting Intention: Reflect on the purpose of your meditation. It could be:
“I seek to awaken the light of wisdom within me, to connect with the divine consciousness.”
2. Focusing on the Flame (External Light)
Visualization of the Flame: If you’re a beginner, begin by positioning a candle or lamp before you at eye level. Light the candle in a dark room, and let the gentle light brighten your room.
Focus on the Flame: Look at the candle flame with complete awareness. Observe the dancing of the light, the motion of the flame, and the area surrounding it.
As you gaze at the flame, let your mind become calm and quiet. Disengage from all distractions and tenderly concentrate on the light only.
Absorbing the Light: As you look at the flame, sense the light penetrating into your body. Visualize the light entering your heart, mind, and soul. Allow this light to fill your body completely with clarity and purity.
3. Turning Inward: Concentrating on the Inner Light
Close Your Eyes: After a few minutes of gazing at the external flame, close your eyes softly. Carry your attention inward, picturing the same light you saw outwardly, now inside. Imagine this light in the center of your heart or the third eye (between the eyebrows), shining brightly.
The light is not just a visual picture but a sensation— a sense of warmth, peace, and clarity in you. It is the light of your soul.
Visualizing the Inner Flame: Close your eyes and imagine a brilliant divine light in your heart or at your third eye point. Imagine it growing and getting brighter, until your whole being is filled with this light.
Surrendering to the Light: Surrender your ego and all thoughts to this light. Feel the light dissolving any negative energy, emotions, or thoughts that arise. Let the light cleanse your mind and spirit.
4. Deepening the Practice: Merging with the Light
Focused Continuity: With every breath, visualize the light becoming brighter, stronger, and more extensive. You can start to feel like you are no longer distinct from this light but are coming together with it.
Immersing in the Light: As you focus, feel the inner light shining on every aspect of your awareness, dispelling the darkness of ignorance, and enabling you to feel profound peace, love, and oneness.
Silence and Stillness: Let go of all mental noise as you still concentrate on the inner light. Attain a state of silence where your mind is calm and peaceful, and only the light is present. This is the authentic experience of Jyoti Dhyana where you become immersed in divine light and wisdom.
5. Closing the Practice: Gratitude and Reflection
Gradual Transition: As you start to wrap up the meditation, kindly bring your attention back to the physical body. Notice the earth supporting you and gradually start wiggling your fingers and toes.
Gratitude: Thank the light within you for the peace and wisdom you have tapped into during this meditation. Recognize the sacred nature of this experience and the change it brought about.
Closing Affirmation: Finish your practice with an affirmation such as:
“I am the light of the universe. I have the divine flame of wisdom and truth in me.”
The Essence of Jyoti Dhyana
The crux of Jyoti Dhyana is to tap into the inner light symbolizing pure consciousness. It’s about transcending the material world and going deep into the center of our soul. Through inner light meditation, we go beyond the confines of the body and the mind, reaching a superior state of consciousness where we realize oneness with the divine. This practice gives rise to spiritual evolution, inner peace, and a deep connection
Advantages of Jyoti Dhyana
Physical Benefits:
Produces relaxation and reduces physical tension
Enhances energy and vitality
Induces better sleep and enhanced well-being
Mental Benefits:
Improves mental acuity and concentration
Reduces anxiety and stress
Improves concentration and memory
Emotional Benefits:
Attains emotional stability and peace
Develops stronger sense of joy and contentment
Releases emotional blockages and negativity
Spiritual Benefits:
Induces profound spiritual awakening and sensitivity
Facilitates convergence with the divine light and consciousness
Unites you with the source of all creation
Challenges and Considerations
Mental Distractions: As with any meditation, the mind may wander. When it does, gently guide your attention back to the light without judgment or frustration.
Visualization: Visualizing the light may be challenging for some at first. If this happens, begin by gazing at a candle to build the mental image of light.
Patience: Jyoti Dhyana needs patience and persistence. The more you work at it, the closer to the inner light you will be.
Reflective Questions
What do I feel when the inner light arises within me in meditation? How is it to join with it?
What is the nature of the inner light that I am picturing? Does it feel warm, clean, or brilliant? How do I feel in my body when experiencing it?
How does the light represent my inner wisdom and consciousness? Do I feel more connected to my higher self after practicing this meditation?
How can I bring the awareness of this inner light into my everyday life?
What feelings or thoughts come up during this meditation? How do I let them melt away in the light?
Conclusion: The Divine Light Within
Jyoti Dhyana, or the meditation on the inner light, is a strong practice that allows you to tap into your real nature and the divine light within you. By focusing on the flame, inner light, and identification with the light of consciousness, the meditator unlocks the gates to profound spiritual wisdom, inner peace, and transformation.
Through regular practice, this meditation makes one realize the profound connection of themselves with the universe, giving rise to peace, clarity, and spiritual development. Through contact with the inner light, we are drawn closer to our eventual state of unity with the divine.