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Yajnavalkya

@yajnavalkya

“Yajnavalkya is an ancient Indian sage and philosopher associated with the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad and early Vedic thought. He is known for his profound dialogues on the nature of the self (Atman), liberation, and metaphysical inquiry in Hindu philosophy.”

Principles

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The manifesto · 14 principles

Respect the pursuit of knowledge as a sacred path, especially knowledge that leads beyond ignorance and fear.
Live simply and philosophically, with attention fixed on ultimate questions rather than superficial concerns.
Understand that freedom comes from knowing what is eternal within oneself, not from accumulating more in the world.
See the same underlying reality in all beings and act from this vision of unity.
Approach truth through dialogue, reflection, and humility rather than dogmatism.
Cultivate self-mastery through restraint, silence, and contemplative living.
Recognize impermanence in worldly life and do not base your identity on transient things.
Value wisdom over mere ceremony; inner knowledge matters more than external religious performance.
Practice renunciation of ego and possessiveness, recognizing that clinging binds the soul.
Detach from possessions, status, and ritualism when they distract from spiritual truth.
Use disciplined inquiry and reasoned questioning to test every belief, teaching, and experience.
Pursue liberation (moksha) rather than worldly success as the final aim of life.
Live with the understanding that the deeper reality is Brahman, and that the self and ultimate reality are intimately connected.
Seek direct realization of the Self (Atman) as the highest truth; outer knowledge is secondary to inner awakening.