The human body is a marvellous structure, which originates from a single subtle cell and takes form through the creation of innumerable other cells. Each cell is, in itself, a complete entity. Thus, every body comprises countless cells, and each of these cells may be regarded as a body in miniature. In this sense, within every body reside countless ‘subtle bodies’. One may rightly assert that a single body is fashioned through the union of many such miniature bodies.
Each cell possesses its own nucleus, which governs the functions of that cell. This governance is exercised by a force residing within the nucleus—a power that not only controls the cell but also orchestrates the periodic creation of new cells. When all the cells harmoniously unite and coordinate their functions, a complete body is formed. This wondrous process of bodily formation begins with but one single cell.
After the body has been formed, all the cells collectively give rise to a central governing centre within the body, which lies near the middle—above the stomach. This central hub commands and regulates the nuclei of all the body's cells. Within this core lies a force that not only governs the body but also adapts it to external conditions and environmental changes.
Man discovered this inner force thousands of years ago. As the human mind evolved and expanded the frontiers of its understanding, it became aware of this marvellous power residing within. From that time until the present day, mankind has sought to comprehend and realise this force through ceaseless contemplation and enquiry. Through the ages, human civilisation has referred to this power by many names—soul, vital force, life force, consciousness, sentience, the inert principle, or the supreme element. All these appellations signify one and the same essence: the power that animates life—the vital life energy, or prāṇa.
It is this central nucleus within the body that gives rise to the development of intellect. It is this energy that forges a connection between the human body and the natural world. Owing to this relationship, certain qualities emerge naturally within the body that enable the living being to harmonise with the adversities of nature. This explains how life endures in the most extreme environments upon Earth—whether amidst the glacial cold of the icebergs or within the scorching sands of the vast deserts. Such endurance is a living testament to the unique potency of life-force.
Since ancient times, mankind has earnestly sought to understand this life-force. Every individual, at some point in life, attempts to know and recognise this inner power. We are all impelled to ask: What is this force within us that we call life-force? How does it govern our bodies? What is its meaning, its definition, its scope, and its mode of operation? These are questions that arise unbidden in the heart of every thoughtful human being.
In addition to these, there are numerous fundamental questions that stir the human mind over the course of life, such as:
What is death?
Why does the body perish?
Can man become immortal?
What is the meaning and definition of life?
What is the value of life?
Does God exist?
If He exists, where is He?
What is the nature of the universe, and how was it created?
Did God create the universe?
Is God the one who governs this world?
Does God exercise control over our lives?
How did life begin on Earth?
Who was the first living being?
What is the difference between a living being and life itself?
Who created the cosmos?
Is life confined to Earth alone, or does it exist elsewhere in the universe?
And likewise, many other inquiries arise:
What is religion?
Who established religion?
What is the meaning, definition, and significance of religion?
Is it necessary to follow religious doctrines?
Was religion created by God or by man?
What is the significance of religious scriptures?
How were places of worship created, and what is their importance?
How was nature created?
How does nature function?
What is nature, and how does it maintain its balance?
What is the value of progress?
Is life possible without nature?
What is knowledge, and what is its role in human life?
What is self-realisation, and how is it attained?
Who is man?
What is the relationship between man and nature?
What is society, and how did it originate?
What is the significance of human society?
What are the major problems facing society today?
What is civilisation and culture, and what is their value?
How did civilisation and culture come into being?
Every human being is innately drawn to seek the answers to these profound questions. Yet, owing to their immense complexity, most individuals are unable to find definitive answers. In the pursuit of inner satisfaction, when such questions arise within us, we often turn to the sacred scriptures and holy texts. We interpret the teachings contained therein, aligning them with the wisdom that lies within our own souls, in an attempt to resolve our doubts.
But in truth, the only one capable of offering clear and truthful answers to these questions is he who has transcended all boundaries of knowledge, elevated his consciousness to its highest state, and attained self-realisation. Every sacred scripture known to man on Earth has been authored by such enlightened beings, who have experienced truth directly through the inner vision of their awakened consciousness.