"NEVER BORN, NEVER DIED"

Introduction

"Never born, never died" evokes a profound and timeless concept, one that transcends the boundaries of conventional life and death. It suggests a state of existence beyond the limitations of birth and mortality, where an entity exists outside the normal cycle of human life. This idea can be interpreted in various philosophical, spiritual, or metaphorical ways, pointing toward the eternal or infinite nature of the soul, consciousness, or a higher form of being that is not bound by the physical world. In exploring this concept, we delve into the nature of existence itself, contemplating the possibility of immortality, transcendence, and the idea of a reality where time and death are irrelevant. This phrase challenges our conventional understanding of life, urging us to question the boundaries of life and death and to consider a more expansive view of what it means to exist. 

The name "OSHO" is derived from the ancient Japanese form of word "oceanic," (also used by William James) which represents the dissolution into the ocean of existence. He adopted this name later in life to signify his teachings' universal and timeless nature. OSHO, childhood name as Rajneesh Chandra Mohan Jain arrived on 1931, was a spiritual teacher, mystic, and founder of the Rajneesh movement. His teachings emphasized meditation, mindfulness, love, and a celebration of life. OSHO's philosophy blended Eastern spiritual traditions with Western ideas of individualism, freedom, and questioning societal norms.

Core Philosophy

Meditation and Mindfulness: OSHO placed a strong emphasis on meditation, considering it the core of his teachings. He developed various meditation techniques, including dynamic meditation, which involved physical activity followed by stillness, helping individuals to release pent-up emotions and reach a state of awareness. As he said, "Meditation is nothing but a device to make you aware of your real self—which is not created by you, which cannot be created, but which you already are."

Love and Relationships: He taught that love should be unconditional and free from possessiveness. OSHO believed in the importance of authentic relationships where individuals could express themselves freely without societal constraints. He once stated, "Love is the goal, life is the journey."

Freedom and Rebellion: OSHO encouraged people to challenge traditional beliefs, societal norms, and religious dogmas. He was critical of institutionalized religions and promoted a personal, experiential approach to spirituality. He famously said, "Be—don't try to become."

Zorba the Buddha: This concept combines the Greek figure Zorba, symbolizing a life of enjoyment and pleasure, with the spiritual, meditative Buddha. OSHO envisioned a balance between materialism and spirituality, where one could live a joyous, earthly life while being spiritually aware. He articulated, "I teach you to be both: to be Zorba the Greek and Gautam the Buddha together."

Spiritual Vision

OSHO's spiritual vision was centred on the idea of creating a "new man" who is spiritually aware, intellectually free, and capable of enjoying life fully. He believed that traditional religious practices were outdated and that a new approach to spirituality was necessary for the modern world.

The New Man: OSHO's concept of the "new man" was someone who embodies both the qualities of Zorba and Buddha. This new man would be deeply spiritual yet fully engaged in the pleasures of the world, integrating the material and the spiritual. He described this new human as "a mystic, a poet, a scientist all together."

Inner Transformation: He emphasized the importance of inner transformation over external rituals. OSHO taught that true spirituality comes from within and that individuals must undergo a personal journey to discover their inner truth and freedom. He believed, "The greatest freedom is to be free of one's mind."

Sannyas: OSHO redefined the traditional concept of Sannyas (renunciation). Instead of renouncing the world, his sannyasins were encouraged to live in the world, enjoy it, and use it as a means to grow spiritually. This approach was revolutionary, as it brought spirituality into everyday life. He remarked, "Be realistic: Plan for a miracle."

Silent Transmission: OSHO believed in the power of silent transmission of spiritual energy from the master to the disciple. He often used silence as a tool for teaching, allowing his presence to communicate deeper truths that words could not convey. He noted, "Silence is the language of god, all else is poor translation."

Dynamic Meditation: Developed by Osho. It is an active form of meditation designed to help individuals break free from mental and emotional blockages. Unlike traditional forms of meditation, which often emphasize stillness, Dynamic Meditation involves intense physical activity, including deep breathing, chaotic movements, cathartic release of emotions, and silence. The process is divided into five stages, which encourage participants to express repressed emotions, release pent-up energy, and achieve a state of heightened awareness. This energetic practice aims to bring individuals into the present moment, facilitating a profound sense of liberation and inner peace.

His Meditative Voice and Words from Silence

OSHO delivered numerous discourses on a variety of topics, which have been compiled into books and recordings. Some of his most famous discourses include:

• "The Mustard Seed": A series of talks on the Gospel of Thomas, delivered in the early 1970s in Pune, India.
• "The Dhammapada: The Way of the Buddha": A detailed commentary on the Dhammapada, the teachings of Buddha, also delivered in Pune.
• "Yoga: The Alpha and the Omega": A comprehensive series on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.
• "The Book of Secrets": Discourses on the ancient text "Vigyan Bhairav Tantra," held in Mumbai and Pune.

OSHO's talks took place in various locations, with the most notable being:

• Pune Ashram (Osho International Meditation Resort): Located in Pune, India, this was OSHO's primary residence and the centre of his activities during the 1970s and after his return from the United States.
• Rajneeshpuram: The commune in Oregon, USA, where OSHO delivered numerous discourses during the early 1980s.
• Woodlands, Mumbai: Before moving to Pune, OSHO gave several talks at his residence in Mumbai.

Controversies

OSHO's life and teachings were not without controversy. His unconventional views, lifestyle, and the practices of his followers often attracted criticism and legal challenges.

Sexual Liberation: OSHO's open discussions on sex and his liberal attitudes towards it were considered scandalous, especially in conservative societies. He believed that sexual repression led to societal problems and advocated for a healthy, open attitude towards sexuality. He asserted, "Sex has been the greatest problem for religious people."

Wealth and Materialism: Unlike many spiritual leaders, OSHO did not denounce wealth. He lived a luxurious lifestyle, owning numerous Rolls-Royces, which led to accusations of hypocrisy and materialism. He argued that material wealth was not incompatible with spiritual growth. He expressed, "I don't believe in a spirituality that has no savor of life."

Rajneeshpuram: In the early 1980s, OSHO and his followers established a commune in Oregon, USA, named Rajneeshpuram. The commune became a focal point of controversy due to its rapid expansion, clashes with local communities, and legal issues. It escalated to criminal activities, including the largest bioterror attack in US history when some members poisoned salad bars with salmonella in an attempt to influence local elections.

Legal Issues and Deportation: OSHO faced several legal challenges in the US, including charges related to immigration fraud. In 1985, he was arrested and later deported. He returned to India, where he continued his teachings until his departure in 1990.

Conclusion

Despite the controversies, OSHO's teachings have endured and continue to attract followers worldwide. His ideas on meditation, personal freedom, and the synthesis of spiritual and material life resonate with many. His books and meditation techniques are widely available, and numerous OSHO centres exist globally, promoting his vision of a balanced, joyful life.

OSHO's philosophy was revolutionary and provocative, blending ancient wisdom with modern sensibilities. His life was a testament to the challenges of pushing societal boundaries and advocating for a liberated, mindful existence. While his methods and lifestyle sparked debates, his teachings on meditation, love, and personal freedom remain influential, offering a unique perspective on living a fulfilling life.