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Finding the Middle Path: A Note on Materialism and Spiritualism

H.H. Raseshwari Devi Ji
Dec 26, 2025
2 min read

Achieving a balance between materialism and spiritualism requires a deep understanding of the human condition and the purpose of our existence. Human life is the most "opportune living species", yet it is simultaneously "inflicted with mortality". This duality forms the basis of the struggle between our material desires and our spiritual needs.

The Delusion of Materialism

In the observable, material world, we are often surrounded by ignorance and the "delusion of the masses". This ignorance manifests as a false sense of self-importance, where individuals believe they are "ever wisest" and never make mistakes. Materialism focuses on what can be seen, but life is like a "vapor" that appears briefly and then vanishes. If we focus solely on the material, we remain trapped in the cycle of mortality and darkness. The ancient prayer, "Asatoma Sad-Gamaya," highlights the need to be led from the untruth (the ephemeral material world) to the truth, and from death to immortality.

The Spiritual Foundation

Spiritualism, particularly through Sanatan Vedic principles and "bhakti" (devotion) to Shri Krishna, provides the necessary counterweight to material pursuits. It encourages us to look beyond what is visible, as we often "walk by faith and not by sight". Spiritual growth involves:

Refining Character: Following timeless ideals of commitment and character, such as those exemplified by Lord Ram.
Self-Inquiry: Asking fundamental questions about our identity, such as "Who am I?" and exploring our relationship with the Divine.
Selfless Action: Recognising that the value of our actions lies not in the quantity of what we give, but in "how much love we put into giving".

Maintaining the Balance

The balance is not found by rejecting the world, but by navigating it with spiritual wisdom. While we live in a material reality, we must use this "opportune" life to seek light and immortality. By integrating bhakti and love into our daily interactions and philanthropy, we transform material actions into spiritual ones. This prevents us from being consumed by the "delusion" of the observable world while ensuring we fulfill our duties with character and loyalty.

Ultimately, while the material world is the stage upon which we act, the spiritual path is what gives those actions meaning and leads us toward eternal truth.

Analogy for Understanding: Think of the balance between materialism and spiritualism like rowing a boat across a river. The boat and the oars represent our material existence—they are necessary tools to navigate the water. However, the spiritual path is the compass and the destination. If you focus only on the boat (materialism), you may keep it polished but remain drifting in the middle of the river. If you focus only on the destination but neglect the boat (spiritualism without grounding), you will sink. Balance is achieved when you use the material tools you have been given to reach the spiritual shore.