Aurobindo

Definition

Aurobindo refers to Sri Aurobindo Ghose, a prominent Indian philosopher, yogi, and nationalist who lived from 1872 to 1950. He is known for his synthesis of Eastern and Western thought and his spiritual teachings, particularly on integral yoga and human evolution, making significant contributions to the philosophical landscape of modern India.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sri Aurobindo played a crucial role in India's freedom struggle and was involved in revolutionary activities before turning to spiritual pursuits.
2. He founded the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry, which became a center for spiritual education and practice.
3. Aurobindo's philosophical writings include 'The Life Divine' and 'Savitri,' where he elaborates on his vision of human evolution and spirituality.
4. His ideas have influenced various modern spiritual movements and thinkers, bridging traditional Indian philosophy with contemporary issues.
5. Aurobindo's concept of the 'Supermind' suggests that humanity can evolve to a higher consciousness, leading to a divine life on earth.

Review Questions

• How did Aurobindo's early political involvement influence his later philosophical teachings?
  • Aurobindo's early involvement in India's nationalist movement significantly shaped his later philosophical outlook. His experiences fighting for India's independence instilled in him a deep understanding of human potential and transformation. This led him to develop a vision where spiritual awakening is linked with societal progress, merging his political activism with his teachings on integral yoga, emphasizing the importance of personal and collective evolution.
• Analyze the significance of Integral Yoga in Aurobindo's philosophy and its impact on modern spirituality.
  • Integral Yoga is central to Aurobindo's philosophy as it represents a holistic approach to spiritual practice, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions. This method encourages practitioners to transform their entire being rather than seeking enlightenment as an isolated experience. The impact of Integral Yoga on modern spirituality is profound; it promotes the idea that spirituality can be lived in daily life, influencing many contemporary spiritual movements that advocate for active engagement with the world while pursuing inner development.
• Evaluate how Aurobindo's concept of Supermind contributes to the discourse on human evolution and consciousness in philosophical thought.
  • Aurobindo's concept of Supermind introduces a transformative perspective on human evolution, positing that humanity can evolve to higher states of consciousness beyond ordinary mental functions. This idea contributes significantly to philosophical discussions about the potential of human beings to transcend their limitations and achieve divine living. By integrating insights from both Eastern spirituality and Western philosophy, Aurobindo expands the discourse on consciousness, suggesting that an evolved state can lead to profound changes in individual lives and society as a whole.

Related terms

Integral Yoga: Aurobindo's approach to yoga that integrates spiritual practices with everyday life, aiming for a complete transformation of the individual and society.

Supermind: A state of consciousness in Aurobindo's philosophy that transcends ordinary mental functioning, representing a higher level of awareness and truth.

Nationalism: The political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a nation, which Aurobindo embraced during India's struggle for independence from British rule.