How should a Christian view yoga?

Answer

For many Christians in the West who do not understand the history behind it, yoga is simply a way to exercise physically and enhance and improve muscle flexibility. However, the philosophy of yoga goes beyond just physical self-improvement. It is an ancient practice originating from India, believed to be the path to spiritual growth and enlightenment.

The term yoga translates to “union,” aiming to unite one’s temporary self with the infinite Brahman, the Hindu concept of “God.” This deity is not a tangible entity but an impersonal spiritual essence that is interconnected with nature and the universe. This perspective is known as “pantheism,” the belief that everything is divine and that reality comprises solely the universe and nature. As everything is divine, the yoga philosophy does not differentiate between humanity and divinity.

Hatha yoga is the yoga aspect that concentrates on the physical body through specific postures, breathing techniques, and focus or meditation. It serves as a way to ready the body for spiritual practices, with fewer hindrances, to attain enlightenment. The yoga practice is grounded in the idea that humanity and divinity are unified. It essentially amounts to self-worship camouflaged as advanced spirituality.

The crucial question arises: Can a Christian separate the physical elements of yoga as merely an exercise method without integrating its spirituality or philosophy? Yoga originated with a distinctly anti-Christian philosophy, which remains unchanged. It instructs individuals to concentrate on themselves rather than the one true God. It prompts participants to seek solutions to life’s challenging queries within their own consciousness rather than in God’s teachings. Furthermore, it exposes individuals to deception by God’s adversary, who seeks to lead people astray from God. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil”.

, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: », (1 Peter 5:8).

Whatever we do should be done for God’s glory «Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. », (1 Corinthians 10:31), and we would be wise to heed the words of the apostle Paul: “Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” «Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. », (Philippians 4:8, NLT). A Christian should exercise caution and pray for discernment regarding involvement in yoga.