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Writer's pictureAnika Naneyshvili

The Search for Purpose: Exploring the Meaning of Life and Joy Beyond Spiritual Traditions


“You don’t have to do anything. If you could sit here for one moment and experience this, you would know you don’t have to do anything. Just being alive is grand enough.”


- Sadhguru


a man sits by the pond surrounded  by the green forest

Have you ever pondered the question, "What is my purpose in life?" I certainly have, countless times. As a child, curiosity drove me to explore everything: the sky, animals, oceans, mountains, and all that lay in between. But when we ask, “What is the purpose of life?” are we questioning our role in this current incarnation or contemplating the meaning of the eternal game of life itself?


Different spiritual traditions offer profound insights into this age-old question:

  • Hinduism teaches that the purpose of life is to transcend the illusion of duality, known as maya, and realize the oneness of all existence (advaita). Through the discipline of yoga, one can align with the universal force and achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of reincarnation.

  • Buddhism focuses on enlightenment. The purpose of life, according to Buddhist teachings, is to cultivate a deep understanding of existence, which ultimately leads to liberation through meditation and mindfulness.

  • Christianity encourages the development of Christ Consciousness—living a life filled with unconditional love, compassion, and recognition of God’s divine creation. The goal is to align with Christ-like virtues in everything we do.

  • Islam teaches that the purpose of life is to worship Allah and live according to His guidance, with the ultimate goal of attaining paradise. This guidance reflects living a life of faith, morality, and justice.


What About Our Current Incarnation?

At times, it may seem that we as human beings are too absorbed in personal desires and day-to-day challenges to contemplate the broader purpose of existence. So perhaps the question should shift: What is the purpose of this particular incarnation? Surveys show that most people believe their purpose is centered around building strong relationships, contributing positively to their community, and finding happiness through meaningful connections.


children blowing bubbles in a beautiful summer day

Relationship as a Barometer

Improving our relationships with others is often seen as a strong indicator that we are on the right path toward fulfilling our life purpose, as highlighted in various spiritual traditions and Vedic teachings. This is because healthy connections reflect our growth in empathy, compassion, and love—key aspects of spiritual development. Relationships serve as mirrors, revealing our inner state and allowing us to see where we have healed and transformed. Additionally, fulfilling our life purpose frequently involves serving others; thus, harmonious relationships indicate that we are contributing positively to the collective good. In essence, the quality of our relationships acts as a barometer for our alignment with our higher selves and our true life purpose.


woman is oil painting a picture in her art studio on a  sunny summer day

My Belief: Joy as the Purpose of Life

Personally, I believe that the ultimate purpose of life is joy. While each of us has unique roles and lessons to navigate, joy is a universal thread connecting us all. But why is joy so important?

  1. Inner Compass

    Joy acts as an internal guide. When we experience true joy, it signals that we are in alignment with our higher self, values, and purpose. Joy is a way of understanding what resonates with our soul and which steps to take in life.

  2. Positive Emotions

    Joy is not just a fleeting feeling—it’s a high-vibrational state that fuels motivation and directs us toward actions that bring meaning and fulfillment. It’s a force that helps us stay aligned with what truly matters.

  3. Self-Awareness

    When we focus on what brings us joy, we gain insights into our strengths, passions, and interests. Joy helps illuminate our unique talents and where they intersect with our desires—key ingredients for discovering our purpose.

  4. Not Just Pleasure

    True joy is different from pleasure. While pleasure is temporary, joy emerges from engaging in activities that contribute to something bigger than ourselves. Whether helping others, creating art, or pursuing a passion, joy ties us to a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.

  5. Reflection

    Using joy as a compass requires regular reflection. We need to look at the moments that spark joy and ask ourselves why they resonate. This practice helps us understand our path and live a purpose-driven life. Joy becomes a mirror to our soul’s desires, showing us the direction of growth and fulfillment.


Joy as a Spiritual Tool for Purpose

Incorporating joy into your life is more than just chasing happiness. It’s recognizing joy as a spiritual and practical tool for personal growth and alignment with your true purpose. Joy is not just about feeling good—it’s about experiencing life fully, with an open heart, and recognizing that joy can guide us to the path we’re meant to walk.


So, the question I pose to you is:


What brings you joy, and how does that joy connect you to your purpose?


The answer may lie in the smallest moments of life—the ones that light up your soul and align you with your highest self.


May You be Blessed Beyond Your Wildest Dreams!


From Light With Love,

Anika

Spiritual Life Coach


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