Suffer yourself to be tempted within so that you may exhaust in the struggle your downward propensities

Suffer yourself to be tempted within so that you may exhaust in the struggle your downward propensities

"Suffer yourself to be tempted within so that you may exhaust in the struggle your downward propensities" is a profound statement attributed to Sri Aurobindo, a spiritual leader and philosopher who emphasized the importance of inner transformation and self-mastery. This quote encapsulates the idea that in order to overcome our negative tendencies and limitations, we must confront and challenge them within ourselves.

Sri Aurobindo believed that human beings are capable of transcending their lower nature and evolving towards a higher state of consciousness. However, this transformation requires a conscious effort to confront and overcome the inner obstacles that hinder our spiritual growth. By allowing ourselves to be tempted and tested by our own weaknesses, we can gain a deeper understanding of our inner workings and ultimately exhaust the negative tendencies that hold us back.

The struggle against our downward propensities is not easy, as it requires us to confront our own fears, desires, and attachments. It is a process of self-discovery and self-transformation that can be painful and challenging. However, Sri Aurobindo believed that this inner struggle is necessary for spiritual evolution and growth.

By facing our inner demons and temptations, we can gradually weaken their hold on us and eventually transcend them. This process of self-mastery and inner purification is essential for achieving a higher state of consciousness and realizing our true potential.

In the teachings of Sri Aurobindo, the path to spiritual enlightenment is not a smooth and easy one. It requires us to confront our own limitations and weaknesses, and to strive towards a higher ideal. By embracing the struggle within ourselves, we can gradually overcome our downward propensities and evolve towards a more enlightened and liberated state of being.