High Vedic principles in the modern spiritual context can manifest through the pursuit of deep self-knowledge and the recognition of an individual’s inner unity with the Supreme Reality.

Transcending Rituals: The Inner Journey in Modern Spiritual Practice

High Vedic principles in the modern spiritual context can manifest through the pursuit of deep self-knowledge and the recognition of an individual’s inner unity with the Supreme Reality. In particular, the approach described in the source “Guru and Vedantist Practices” (source: link txt) demonstrates the importance of transitioning from superficial forms of worship to ritual self-adulation, where the repetition of specific sacred formulas (for example, “So Ham, So Ham”) serves as a means of affirming this inner connection. Despite its evident ritualistic elements, this practice is aimed at cultivating an awareness of one’s divine essence and unity with the higher principle—a practice that can be adapted to modern spirituality by emphasizing a deep inner experience and a thoughtful approach to one’s spiritual path.

Supporting citation(s):
“Firstly, this is idolatry. This may involve the worship of a sculpture or image with offerings such as lamps, camphor, incense, water, and sweets. Statues may be fanned with a yak’s tail, bathed, clothed, and put to bed. This might seem like mere child’s play, but it would be unwise to underestimate the psychic sensations it can evoke. Vedantist idolatry takes the form of self-adulation—whether mental or active, complete with all ritual confirmations. A widely used expression in India characterizes this self-adulation. It goes: ‘So Ham, So Ham’ (that is, ‘I am He, I am He’). This is followed by japa, or the repetition of a Sanskrit mantra given to the disciple during initiation. Essentially, it is the repetition of a magical formula (incantation).” (source: link txt)