Many people think yoga is a great way to “stretch” and exercise.
And while yoga classes are offered all over the United States – even in fitness centers – yoga is a highly spiritual practice with Hindu roots originating nearly 5,000 years ago in Northern India.
So what’s the real deal behind yoga – and should Christians participate in this Hindu practice?
Well first let’s look at what yoga actually is and explore its purpose – and then compare it with what the Bible teaches.
The word yoga actually means “union” – and the ultimate goal is to reach total enlightenment and become one with Brahman – a Hindu word which essentially means the “highest universal level” or “ultimate reality in the universe.”
Every aspect of yoga has a spiritual component and each “stretching” position is meant to worship one of the Hindu gods.
The goal in yoga is to “empty the mind” while mastering each pose and position until one’s progressed to the highest level of enlightenment.
Even the popular phrase “namaste” means the “god in me bows to the god in you” – yet Christians say it like it’s cool and trendy!
The scary thing is, many Christians participate in yoga without actually realizing what they’re doing.
In fact, the Bible is clear that we are not to “empty our minds” – but instead to meditate on Scripture day and night.
We know the Enemy prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour – and there’s no better way for him to gain access than through the “empty mind” of someone dabbling in the Hindu spiritual practice of yoga.
Still not convinced?
Try looking at yoga from a different perspective.
John Piper reframes the issue and suggests that instead of asking ourselves, “Well, what is wrong with it?” – Christians should ask other questions like, “Will this make me more Christlike?”
Desiring God reported:
“In the first case, your typical question is “Well, what is wrong with it?” It would apply to movies and music, and kids often ask their parents, “What is wrong with it?”
The other approach is not mainly to ask, “What is wrong with it?” but, “Will it make me more Christlike? Will it make me more devoted to Jesus? Will I be more powerful and full of the Holy Spirit? Will I be more effective in prayer because of it? Will it make me bolder in witness, or weaken me?
Will it help me be spiritually discerning of the ways of Satan in the world, and will it help me lay up treasures in heaven? Will it help me find joy in God and all that he is for me in Jesus?”
At the end of the day – everything we do should be for the glory of God.
It’s clear yoga has anti-Biblical roots that actually reject Christianity – and it’s advised Christians avoid this practice and stick to other things like Pilates or simple stretches.
True peace comes from having a life-saving relationship with Jesus Christ – not participating in Hindu practices on the floor of a yoga studio.
Do you think Christians should do yoga?
Were you surprised to learn about the roots behind yoga?
You can post your answers to our Facebook page and join in the conversation with other believers from all around the world.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17
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