Knowledge shows the path, and meditation gives power to walk on it. 

By: Dr. Sachin Parab   
Source: The Daily Guardian https://epaper.thedailyguardian.com/2026/06/26/e-paper-today-delhi-27-june-2026/   
Dated: June 27th, 2026

There is an important distinction between knowledge and meditation. Knowledge is valuable, but knowledge alone does not transform our ‘sanskars’ — the deep-rooted traits that govern our behaviour.

Take the example of anger. Everyone knows that anger damages relationships and causes suffering. If we ask people whether anger is good or bad, everyone would immediately say that it is bad. Yet, despite knowing this, most people still become angry. Anger is not just shouting. It has many forms: harsh looks, silent resentment, withdrawal, and subtle hostility. Merely knowing that anger is harmful does not free us from it.

Knowledge without the practice of meditation cannot change our ‘sanskars’. In fact, knowledge can become a source of ego. The Bhagavad Gita reminds us: "The soul, deluded by ego, thinks, 'I am the doer.'" Even spiritual knowledge can create subtle pride if it is not accompanied by humility and spiritual experience.

Acquiring knowledge is just the beginning, the first stage. The second is to understand what has been studied. The third, and most important, is to imbibe the teachings until they become our natural way of being. Only then do we become the embodiment of knowledge.

Many people repeat throughout the day, "I am a peaceful soul." But the real test comes when life presents a challenge. One mother spent an entire day in meditation, enjoying a peaceful state of mind. But when she returned home and found the house in disorder, her anger immediately resurfaced.

Anyone can remain peaceful when all is going well. The real measure of meditation is whether we remain peaceful when people do not behave as we expect. At that moment, knowledge alone is insufficient; spiritual power is required.

True spirituality is demonstrated when others naturally experience peace in our presence. Our vibrations should speak louder than our words. People should feel happiness, purity, and stability simply by being with us. That is the certificate of spiritual progress, because people observe our lives before they listen to what we say.

The greatest obstacle on the spiritual path is delusion. It rarely appears as an obvious enemy. It comes disguised as a friend, making us believe that our reactions are justified. The clearest sign of delusion is the loss of inner peace. Whenever our happiness, detachment, or stability is disturbed, it means we have been deluded.

Difficult situations inevitably arise: illness, financial loss, insults, family problems, or unexpected tragedy. At such moments, many people forget the teachings they have studied for years. Thoughts continue endlessly, draining their inner energy. We need to practice applying the full stop. When a thought has served its purpose, it should stop completely, just as a car stops when the brakes are applied. Knowledge tells us what is right, but meditation provides the power to apply the brakes.

Like doctors who prepare in advance for every possible illness, we must prepare ourselves before life's challenges arrive. Through regular meditation, we can develop the strength to remain stable under every circumstance.

Ultimately, spiritual success is measured not by how much knowledge we possess, but by how naturally that knowledge is expressed in our thoughts, words, vibrations, and actions. Knowledge shows the path, and meditation gives us the power to walk it.

Dr. Sachin Parab is a counsellor, hypnotherapist, and corporate trainer who has been practising and teaching Rajyoga meditation for the last 30 years.