Religious scriptures and deep thinkers have long emphasised the importance of practising silence, as it leads to an internal exercise that enhances the mindset and fosters the realisation of Truth (God consciousness). This practice of silence is elegantly described as meditation. Prayers, long pilgrimages to places of worship, and fasting have been advocated as methods that help individuals achieve mental concentration by observing silence and focusing on specific goals. When the mind wanders from a state of silence, prayers help bring it back.
While it is generally understood that meditation is promoted in religious scriptures for the realisation of God, there are several other benefits associated with it.
Many scholars and high achievers across various fields are known to have developed the practice of observing silence and engaging in meditation, either for short or extended periods, as part of their regular routine.
In recent memory, it is well known that revered Indian saints such as Sri Bhagwan Ramana Maharshi and Kanchi Paramacharya observed silence for several days at a time. Mahatma Gandhi is also known to have observed one day of silence each week for deep introspection. More recently, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been known to practise meditation whenever possible, amidst his busy schedule, to reflect on the larger purpose of life and duty.
The question arises: should the period of silence involve a thoughtful or thoughtless state? Can the practice of silence enable an individual to empty the mind? On the other hand, the silence period should involve focused thought, as a thoughtless process seems unimaginable, or perhaps inconceivable. In other words, the practice of silence paves the way for concentrated thinking, whether it’s focusing on a particular idea, or enhancing concentration while listening to teachers, speakers, or musicians for clearer understanding.
This ability to achieve mental concentration through the practice of silence, aside from strengthening memory, is the foundation for excelling in any activity, whether one is involved in scientific research, sports, or any other pursuit.
Furthermore, the ability to observe silence for short or extended periods enables an individual to view life holistically, appreciating the limitations of human existence and possibly seeing beyond it. It allows one to recognise that whatever is done in life should have purpose, be accomplished within a set timeframe, and be carried out with efficiency, determination, and detachment—without ill will towards anyone and goodwill for all. Even as life’s activities continue, there is a growing realisation that these activities are not the be-all and end-all of human existence. In other words, the soul should be nourished.
Practising and observing silence has the potential to allow one to evolve in harmony with the universe. The vibrations that emerge from the thought process during silence calm the mind by addressing its inner turbulence.
Finally, it can be concluded that the state of silence enables a harmonious blend of outer life and inner tranquillity, ultimately paving the way to a state of detachment from material wealth. When this state is reached, it is described as Bliss (Ananda). Perhaps this is the highest state that a human can aspire to in life.
The practice of silence should begin in the formative years and childhood, allowing the individual to grow and develop through life. It may be appropriate to consider the suggestion of incorporating the practice of silence into the school curriculum, starting at a young age.
