Ancient Indian Philosophy from “Upnishads” for Modern Choices and Path to True Fulfillment
Preya vs. Shreya
India's scriptures, particularly the Upanishads, are profound reservoirs of ancient Indian wisdom that provide eternal guidance for managing challenges and living meaningfully. Eknath Easwaran’s “Essence of the Upanishads” takes us on an insightful excursion through these scriptures. I recently started reading this “important to read” book, and I was mesmerized by the easiness of the narration and simple explanation of complex subjects.
I just finished reading chapter 2, called “Two Paths,” and could not resist sharing the life-changing concept with my readers. The chapter highlights the core concepts of Preya (pleasant) and Shreya(Beneficial) – a framework that impacts our well-being.
This chapter underscores the profound power of choice we have for every decision we make that determines the quality of our lives. Every choice, in fact, falls under the two concepts of Shreya and Preya. The goal of Preya and Shreya is common: satisfaction. However, the approach is poles apart.
Preya represents the slippery slope of instant gratification.
Preya represents the realm of transitory pleasures and sensory immediate gratification. Preya is the inner voice that says, “Just this once won't hurt,” when we know a choice conflicts with our deeper goals. Preya's allure is compelling, especially when it whispers quick fixes and promises effortless rewards.
Preya is a master of persuasion. Preya mimics the sales tactics used by those who prioritize profit over our well-being: Picture this: a person sees a warning before he lights up a cigarette. However, most of the time, he questions: “The evidence is insubstantial...Sure, they may kill you... but do you have a choice?” Preya excels at downplaying risks and amplifying immediate rewards, tempting us to ignore the long-term consequences.
Preya might justify procrastination with a comforting. We are familiar with phrases like, “There's always tomorrow” or "You deserve to treat yourself." Preya skillfully distracts us from the big picture. Its focus is always on the here and now.
Preya's pleasures, like delicious candy, disappear fast, leaving us craving more. Consider the temporary thrill of venting our anger, only to be followed by regret and potentially damaged relationships. It's fleeting satisfaction – a deceptive path that rarely leads where we truly want to go.
Shreya, the difficult road takes toward lasting fulfillment.
Shreya embodies what genuinely benefits us, promoting health, security, and lasting contentment. Unlike Preya's quick payoffs, Shreya's path often involves discipline, patience, and delayed gratification. Consider the work needed to break a bad habit, the patience needed to restore a broken friendship, or the mindfulness needed to be calm in chaos.
Shreya doesn't appear in flashy packaging. It requires looking beyond immediate appeal and recognizing that genuine well-being involves choices that might initially feel challenging or less exciting. Shreya's rewards unfold over time, fostering a deep sense of fulfillment and inner peace.
Shreya is subtle. It requires looking beyond superficial appeal and recognizing that genuine well-being often involves choices that might initially seem unappealing or difficult. Shreya's intense rewards unfold over time, fostering a deep sense of fulfillment and inner strength.
Shreya offers wisdom, not rigid rules. She knows enjoying life's pleasures in moderation is key to health. We may resist her advice, fearing she wants to deprive us of joy. But true joy comes from balance. Without health, security, and peace of mind, life grows unhappy.
Become the chariot of your life by mastering our faculties.
Easwaran presents a powerful correlation: our lives are like a chariot. Our senses are powerful horses, our intellect the driver, our emotions and desires the wheels, and our true self is the rider within. When Preya prevails, those impulsive horses run wild, dragging us toward destinations we don't consciously intend to travel. Imagine surrendering to road rage and acting out in the heat of the moment despite our best intentions. This is the senses taking control.
Easwaran gives a beautiful example. He says, “The job of the intellect is to see clearly, and the mind's job is to act as reins. When everything is working in harmony, we – the Self – make all the decisions.”
When our desires crave something unhealthy, like a martini, how many of us can assert our will and choose lemonade instead? Too often, our untamed impulses override our better judgment and drag us to the bar regardless. “I have a drinking problem,” we say. However, the truth is that we have the “horses” (senses) problem. We must train our unruly mental horses through the steady practice of self-mastery. Only then can we truly steer our life.
Shreya allows us to train our horses. With the intellect firmly in the driver's seat and discipline guiding our emotions, we reclaim our role as the rider. It's this conscious choice that empowers us to steer towards greater fulfillment. The text highlights this mastery: a trained charioteer enjoys responsiveness and can confidently navigate life's journey.
Preya vs. Shreya: an ongoing internal battle—and the power of choice
The tension between Preya and Shreya is something we grapple with daily. While we aspire toward health, inner peace, and loving connections, Preya relentlessly offers tempting detours promising instant, though ultimately hollow, pleasure. The wisdom of the Upanishads lies in recognizing this internal struggle for what it is, allowing us to become mindful of our choices in every moment.
Imagine yourself about to scroll mindlessly through social media when a deeper voice reminds you of your intention to start journaling instead. This is our power of choice – the chance to opt for Shreya over Preya.
The power of choice in leading a fulfilling life.
While Preya's temptations will always knock on our door, prioritizing Shreya leads to a profound shift. By becoming the master of our chariot, we embark on a journey toward:
Improved Well-Being: nourishing our bodies, pursuing wisdom to broaden our minds, and nurturing our spirits.
Stronger Relationships: Instead of seeking superficial approval, focus on developing healthy bonds based on respect, kindness, and trust.
Inner Peace: Cultivating mindfulness, practicing gratitude, overcoming adversities with resilience, and connecting to something more than ourselves.
Easwaran reminds us that this lifelong endeavor requires determination and constant commitment. Training those powerful "horses" requires consistent effort and focus. However, by grasping the tremendous difference between Preya and Shreya and continually exercising our power of choice, we can pave the way for a life rich with meaning and deep fulfillment.