In studying the Yugas I understand that there is an upward tendency that takes many eons, but also a downward tendency. How is it possible that when we are at the utmost enlightened period, with high vibrations, there comes the downward movement again? Why can’t these high vibrations prevent the downward movement? Is it because it is part of our dual world, and when so, does the principle behind the Yugas exist everywhere in our material universe? Kind regards.
—Wilma Jeuring, Danmark
Dear Wilma,
Your suggestion is correct. The yuga cycle, with high ages followed by low, and low ages by high, reflects the inherent duality of material creation. Light/dark, day/night, happiness/sorrow, positive/negative, attraction/repulsion are all expressions of the dualistic nature of the world we inhabit.
Our true home lies within and beyond duality. This shadow play, as Yogananda poetically described it, is an illusion created by God, colossal entertainment for His children to enjoy. Alas, we get caught up in the illusion and become attached to what we deem good and try to shun what we deem bad — and in the process mire ourselves in duality’s endless complexity.
We are only visitors here. The yugas endless cycle is just one more confirmation that nothing here is permanent. Nothing here can give us lasting happiness, because nothing here is lasting.
In answer to your last question: duality certainly exists throughout the material universe but whether all inhabited solar systems go through a cycle of high ages and low ages I don’t know. My guess would be that some other systems, but not all, experience such a cycle.
Yogananda said that there were satvic (spiritual), rajasic (energetic) and tamasic (low consciousness) galaxies — and that the Milky Way, our galaxy, is rajasic. Perhaps satvic galaxies are more stable? Just a guess.
Warm regards,
Puru (Joseph) Selbie
