The stages of worship

WORSHIP can be of different forms.  It can be mental or external, collective or individual.  It can begin with abstract contemplation and end in outward ceremonial or the reverse.  The external worship of the yogi is only the instrument that leads to abstract contemplation.

“The highest stage is that in which the Immense Presence is perceived in all things.  The middle stage is that of meditation, the lower that of hymns and rosary.  Still lower is the stage of external worship.”  (Mahanirvana Tantra)

“The worship performed by the initiated is of two kinds, internal and external.  Internal worship is ordained only for those who have renounced the world.  Both internal and external worship are necessary for others.” Tantra Samhita.[617]

“The worship of images of stone, metal, jewels, or clay leads the seeker of liberation of rebirth.  Hence the man who wishes to renounce the world should worship only in his own heart and fear external forms of worship so that he may not have to live again.” (Silpa Sastra, p.27.[618])

In the final stage of realization, the yogi does not perceive anything but an Immense Presence pervading all appearances.  At this stage no outward ritual exists any more.  All physical and mental functions have themselves become ritual, that is, have ceased to have any purpose other than to support the contact between the yogi and the object of his contemplation.  When life itself becomes a hindrance, the lingering remnant of an already past existence, the yogi has ceased, for all practical purposes, to be a human being.