The Purpose of Turning to God
Ananta teaches that any motivation, even escaping suffering, is a valid reason to turn to God, as long as it ultimately leads to the intention of loving God and returning to one's true home.
No, because often I've seen the yoga, but I'm doing it because now what is the other option? That even if Maya is pushing us, because it will, we don't turn to God.
No. So at least when Maya nudges us, it pushes us, it slaps us, whatever the intensity may be, as long as we are turning to God, it is fine. But don't not turn because like, oh, what is my intention right now? Is it just to escape Maya or is it to love God? As long as it brings you to the place of intending to be with Him, to love God, to return to your true home, it is fine. Because it would be very dangerous to say that don't pray if it is just to escape the pain of Maya. 99% of us, including myself, that is the main trigger anyway. If you're not feeling the heat in Maya, then we've got caught up in the wrong narrative. There's that heat which makes us want to return to the refuge, the cool shade of God's presence many times, isn't it?
Key Teachings
- Any reason for turning to God is valid, even if it's to escape suffering (Maya).
- The intention to be with God, to love God, and return to one's true home is what matters.
- Suffering often serves as a catalyst to seek refuge in God's presence.
- It's dangerous to withhold prayer or devotion based on perceived 'impure' intentions.
From: Learn To Live in That Atmosphere of the Heart. And Don’t Worry About the ‘Me’ - 21st November 2025