Arjun said to Krishn in the Bhagwad Gita, ‘I see you endowed with numerous arms, bellies, mouths and eyes, and having innumerable forms extended on all sides. I see neither your beginning nor middle nor even your end, manifested as you are in the form of the universe.’ An expedition into space is akin to the journey of a sadhak, spiritual practitioner, undertakes when she dives deep within to realise her true Self.
Being in outer space allows one to witness the delicate dance of the Earth suspended in blackness, a fragile oasis of life. It fosters a profound appreciation for the universe’s interconnectedness. The ever-changing light show of sunrise and sunset across the Earth’s horizon can be a form of moving meditation.
Humanity’s foray into space is a testament to its ability to find solace and wonder in the cosmos. It’s a journey that transcends the boundaries of beliefs. Space missions can provide spiritual insights resonating with Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh’s observation, ‘When we look deeply at the Earth, at the miracle of life, we can’t help but see that we are all interconnected.’