5 min readAug 2, 2023

Maya is a concept in Indian philosophy that refers to the illusion of the world and the limitations of our senses to perceive the true nature of reality. It is a complex concept that has been explored by many scholars and philosophers throughout history. In this article, we will delve deeper into the concept of Maya, its meaning, and how it is perpetuated in humans in various ways.

What is Maya?

Maya is a Sanskrit word that means illusion or delusion. It is a projection of things and forms that are not real, created by the supreme consciousness of God[1]. Maya means unreality, distinct from the reality represented by God or Brahman. It is a state of existence, a point of view, caused by the imperfect discriminating intelligence (buddhi) [2]. Maya is perpetuated in humans in various ways, beginning with the activity of the senses. Repeated activity of the senses results in attraction and aversion which in turn leads to desires and attachments. From them arise numerous feelings, emotions, which keep the mind in a state of agitation. With a disturbed and unsteady mind, one cannot think clearly or discern truth from falsehood[4].

Maya is a powerful force that creates the cosmic illusion that the phenomenal world is real. At the individual level, Maya appears as the lack of knowledge of the real Self, Atman-Brahman, mistakingly identifying with the body-mind complex and its entanglements[6]. Maya is not a theory for the explanation of the world; it is simply a statement of facts as they exist, that the very basis of our being is contradiction, that everywhere we see things in opposition[3]. Maya refers to accepting the temporary as having lasting value, and looking for enduring happiness in this world[5].

How is Maya perpetuated in humans?

Maya is perpetuated in humans in various ways. It begins with the activity of the senses. Repeated activity of the senses results in attraction and aversion which in turn leads to desires and attachments. From them arise numerous feelings, emotions, which keep the mind in a state of agitation. With a disturbed and unsteady mind, one cannot think clearly or discern truth from falsehood. The world draws us into its hold. It keeps us under its spell[4].

Maya is also perpetuated through the three gunas, which are the three qualities of nature: sattva (purity), rajas (activity), and tamas (inertia). These three qualities are present in all things and beings in varying degrees. Maya appeals to our senses, and through the three gunas, we become deluded by matter, energy, mass, and mistakenly take them to be something on which we can rely[5].

Maya in everyday life

Entertainment: The ancient Maya loved to play games, dance, and play music[4][5]. While entertainment is a part of everyday life, it can also be a form of Maya. Entertainment can distract us from the true nature of reality and keep us in a state of illusion.
Social class: In Maya culture, daily life depended on social class. At the top were the king and noble families, while at the bottom were the commoners who were mostly farmers[8]. Social class is a part of many cultures and societies, but it can also be a form of Maya. Social class can create an illusion of superiority or inferiority that is not based on the true nature of reality.
Material possessions: Maya can also be perpetuated through material possessions. The desire for material possessions can create an illusion of happiness and fulfillment that is not based on the true nature of reality. The Maya considered chocolate to be a gift from the gods and used cacao seeds as money[5].
Illusions of the mind: Maya can also be perpetuated through illusions of the mind. For example, the illusion of separateness can create a sense of isolation and disconnection from the world around us. The illusion of permanence can create a sense of attachment to things that are impermanent[6].
Perception of time: Maya can also be perpetuated through our perception of time. The Maya developed a complex and accurate calendar system[7]. However, our perception of time can create an illusion of past and future that is not based on the true nature of reality.

How can we overcome Maya?

Maya cannot be overcome without a fundamental shift in our awareness and inner cleansing of the mind and body. If we want to see the truth of things, we must cleanse our mind and body[10]. We need to develop a higher level of consciousness that allows us to see beyond the illusions of the world. This can be achieved through various spiritual practices such as yoga, meditation, and self-inquiry.

Yoga and meditation are powerful tools for overcoming Maya.

Yoga is a system of practices that aims to unite the individual self with the universal self. It involves physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. Through the practice of yoga, we can purify our mind and body, and develop a higher level of consciousness that allows us to see beyond the illusions of the world.

Meditation is another powerful tool for overcoming Maya. It involves focusing the mind on a single object or thought, and letting go of all other distractions. Through the practice of meditation, we can develop a higher level of awareness that allows us to see beyond the illusions of the world.

Self-inquiry is another powerful tool for overcoming Maya. It involves questioning our beliefs and assumptions about the world and ourselves. Through the practice of self-inquiry, we can develop a deeper understanding of the true nature of reality and overcome the illusions of the world.

Conclusion

Maya is a complex concept that refers to the illusion of the world and the limitations of our senses to perceive the true nature of reality. It is perpetuated in humans in various ways and can only be overcome through a fundamental shift in our awareness and inner cleansing of the mind and body. Yoga, meditation, and self-inquiry are powerful tools for overcoming Maya and developing a higher level of consciousness that allows us to see beyond the illusions of the world. By understanding the concept of Maya, we can develop a deeper understanding of the true nature of reality and live a more fulfilling life.

Citations:

[1] https://www.embodiedphilosophy.com/the-many-faces-of-maya-an-exploration-of-a-paradoxical-concept/
[2] https://www.hinduwebsite.com/hinduism/essays/maya.asp
[3] https://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-94-024-1036-5_135-
[4] http://www.historyshistories.com/maya-daily-life.html
[5] https://www.ducksters.com/history/maya/daily_life.php
[6] https://brewminate.com/daily-life-in-the-civilization-of-the-maya/
[7] https://maya.nmai.si.edu/maya
[8] https://www.historyonthenet.com/daily-life-for-a-maya-commoner
[9] https://www.brookside.leics.sch.uk/attachments/download.asp?file=954&type=pdf
[10] https://www.hinduwebsite.com/beliefinmaya.asp
[11] http://www.mahavidya.ca/2015/06/25/maya-the-concept-of-illusion/
[12] https://www.vedanet.com/the-meaning-of-maya-the-illusion-of-the-world/