Humans naturally fear death, even though it is inevitable. Unlike animals that fear death instinctively, humans have the unique ability to understand its deeper meaning and find peace beyond that fear.
The Human Ability to Understand Death
Humans alone possess intellect that enables them to comprehend the material world, its creator Ishwar, and the relationship between the two. This understanding is revealed through divine wisdom in the Vedas, guiding humans toward positivity, peace, and progress. Ultimately, humans have the capacity to attain spiritual salvation, the highest goal for the soul.
Working Toward Spiritual Liberation
Attaining liberation requires work on oneself physically, mentally, intellectually, and spiritually. This involves acquiring profound knowledge and grasping the material, ephemeral, and spiritual aspects of existence.
The True Nature of Death
Death is part of an eternal cycle of existence. While animals fear death only instinctively, humans are expected to understand its true nature, as taught by the Vedas and sages. The ultimate goal of human life is to reach liberation and freedom from sorrow.
Overcoming Obstacles to Spiritual Progress
Sages emphasize overcoming five obstacles (panch klesh) to progress: avidya (wrong knowledge), asmita (pride), raag (attachment), dwesh (hatred), and abhinivesh (fear of death). A constant fear of death hinders peace and spiritual growth, showing a disconnect with Ishwar, the creator and regulator of the universe.
Effects of Fear and Freedom from Death
Fear of death can drive excessive materialism, imbalance life, and deepen sorrows. Overcoming this fear awakens the understanding that death is controlled by Ishwar and occurs in his infinite wisdom to aid the soul’s refinement and evolution.
This freedom broadens moral awareness, strengthens commitment to dharma, and enables individuals to fulfill duties with courage and integrity. It also enhances the use of physical and mental faculties for personal and greater good.
Living Fully and Fearlessly
Freedom from fear of death does not mean losing self-preservation instinct. Instead, it heightens alertness and determination to preserve life, recognizing the precious limited time on Earth. The fear also reveals excessive attachment to life, which can consume one’s present living and inhibit spiritual growth.
A practical way to overcome this fear is to live each day as if it were the last. By following the sages’ wisdom, we can free ourselves from the fear of death that haunts and burdens our minds.
