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In Israel, we are currently struggling against a government that is attempting to undermine our democracy. One of the ways we resist this is through occasional civilian strikes. I decided that the yoga center I direct would participate in these strikes and shared this decision with my students and fellow teachers.
One response I received was from a teacher who argued that yogis should avoid political activities and not expend their energy on matters beyond their control. Instead, he suggested they focus on internal work to realize the unity of all things. According to this perspective, yogis should neither adopt social or political positions nor take sides, remaining instead in a state of universal peace. This teacher referenced Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi, in which the sage advised his disciples during World War II not to concern themselves with world events outside their control. Instead, he encouraged them to focus on the quest for the Self, emphasizing that the world has a “sovereign,” and it is not our role to change or fix His world. Our task, he argued, is to change our minds to discover our true identity.
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The Age-Old Question
This perspective raises an age-old question in spiritual traditions: To what extent should yogis involve themselves in worldly matters? It is a question worth exploring. On the one hand, many spiritual leaders, such as Mahatma Gandhi, the Dalai Lama, and the Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh, have actively engaged in social and political issues, believing that yogis must work to create a more just world. On the other hand, proponents of non-engagement argue that actions stemming from ignorance (Avidya) cannot lead to positive outcomes and should therefore be avoided altogether.
Both approaches have merit. Acting from the narrow perspective of the ego, while still entangled in emotions like anger, aggression, and revenge, may only perpetuate the cycle of violence. Conversely, how can a yogi remain passive and indifferent in the face of suffering, injustice, and the violation of basic human rights?
Compassion lies at the heart of all spiritual teachings. The realization that the apparent separation between beings is an illusion and the deep sense of interconnectedness with all creation compel yogis to respond to suffering. This is the essence of compassion, and without it, spirituality loses its meaning.
The Bodhisattva’s Way
In Mahayana Buddhism, the noble ideal of the Bodhisattva embodies this commitment. A Bodhisattva, having generated bodhicitta—a compassionate wish to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings—chooses to remain in the world of Samsara to help others awaken to their true nature. While the Bodhisattva acts in the world, their actions are guided by wisdom and clarity, enabling them to alleviate suffering effectively.
My View
In my view, inspired by teachers like Thich Nhat Hanh, yogis should strive to balance these two approaches. Recognizing that we are still subject to Samskara (mental impressions) and under the influence of Avidya, we must continue our formal practice to develop clarity and wisdom. However, engagement with the world should also be part of our practice. Formal practice is a laboratory for examining our own minds, serving as a foundation for becoming more caring, generous, and compassionate.
Engagement in the world is also a measure of spiritual progress. True progress manifests as increased joy and peace for oneself and those around us. Isolated practice should bear fruit in the form of greater equanimity in the face of life’s challenges and deeper empathy and care for others.
Therefore, formal isolated practice must be combined with engaged practice. Finding the right balance between these two paths is an individual challenge, requiring ongoing personal study and exploration. Mistakes are inevitable, but they provide valuable learning opportunities. Trusted teachers can guide us along this path.
It is possible that Ramana Maharshi’s advice during World War II was specific to the disciple’s personal circumstances rather than a general prescription for all yogis. Ultimately, I believe that walking both paths—inner and outer practice—is essential. Striking the right balance is a deeply personal journey, and we must approach it with care and humility, refraining from judging others’ choices and actions.
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