Taking Refuge is not the final destination, but a conscious beginning of the Path. From this moment on, you cease to be merely an observer or seeker. You become an official follower of the Teaching, a disciple of the Guru, and a full member of the spiritual family—the Sangha.
A New Status in the Universe
In our tradition, taking Refuge is regarded as a change in your “citizenship” in the Universe. This event is recorded in the “book of life” of your mind, and the divine forces become aware of it. Your new status is a constant reminder of your decision to move toward Liberation.
You join a specific school—Advaita Vedanta in the Siddha tradition, under the guidance of Swami Vishnudevananda Giri.
Hierarchy of Spiritual Statuses
Sanatana Dharma has a system of statuses (Varnashrama Dharma) that helps everyone find their place on the Path according to their way of life and the intensity of their practice:
- Grihastha (lay practitioner)—the first status you assume. You live in the world, have a family and a job, but build your life upon the foundation of the five vows and five duties
- Karma sannyasi—an advanced seeker, a “monk in the world.” This status involves deeper practice, a vow of service (seva), and non-attachment while maintaining worldly ties
- Brahmachari—a status for those who are free from family obligations and take a vow of celibacy, dedicating themselves to studying the Teaching and practicing meditation
- Vanaprastha—a status for those who have fulfilled their social obligations and wish to withdraw for practice near an ashram or temple
- Purna sannyasi—a fully renounced monk in orange robes. Preparation for this status takes many years (usually at least twelve)
Diksha—the Gateway to Deep Practice
The next important step after taking Refuge is Diksha (initiation). The word “diksha” means that something within you becomes enlightened, while all that is unnecessary departs and dissolves.
During Diksha, you receive a spiritual name and a personal mantra from the Guru. This grants you the rightful authority to perform advanced yoga and meditation techniques that were previously unavailable to you.
Responsibility and Giving Substance to Your Status
Status in itself is merely a form. It gains power only when you fill it with daily spiritual effort—tapasya:
- Studying philosophy and mastering the basic methods of practice
- Access to the community’s internal portal and educational courses
- Daily affirmation of your status through meditation, ethical conduct, and mindfulness
Your new life is a path of gradual ascent from a limited state to a divine one. The tradition provides all the necessary tools and support, but it is you who must walk this path.
