đ A Journey into Oshoâs Methods đ
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Hi ,
In the previous two editions, we explored two of Osho's unique methods:
These methods have helped countless seekers on their path to enlightenment.Â
Today, we delve into another integral aspect of his teachings: the use of humour and jokes on the path to spiritual awakening.
Osho ingeniously integrated laughter into his teachings, demonstrating that humour is not only a relief from life's âseriousnessâ but also a key to unlocking deeper spiritual insights. In fact, he used to say, "Seriousness is a disease while Sincerity is an important value in life."Â
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đ Osho's use of Humour for Awakening đÂ
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Osho's spiritual teachings can be encapsulated in 3 words: 'Life, Love, and Laughter.'Â
His unique use of laughter and jokes as core elements of the spiritual path distinguishes him as a Master of spiritual humour.
I vividly recall the first time I heard him tell a risquĂ© joke during a deeply spiritual discourse. He was in the midst of a sublimely spiritual discourse when all of a sudden, he launched into one of the raunchiest jokes of all time!Â
The hundreds of people who were gathered for his discourse, suddenly sat bolt upright as shockwaves rippled through the crowd. I looked around and people simply had their mouths open in stunned silence!
The abrupt shift from solemnity to humor left us all startled yet profoundly impacted.Â
This moment in 1974 marked the beginning of a journey where humor became a staple in Osho's teachings, eventually leading to the compilation of his jokes into a Joke Bible titled 'Take It Really Seriously!'
Eventually our community of seeker's realised the immense benefits of laughter in our spiritual journey. Thousands of people started to write to him begging him to tell Jokes about all sorts of topics which he did with gusto!
His discourses would oscillate between the refined nuances of spirituality and the most risqué jokes imaginable. The weaving together of meditation and silence with poetry, dance, art, love, pleasure, humour & laughter was a hallmark of Osho's community, creating a rich experience that allowed individuals to experience spirituality in a multifaceted and dynamic way.
We soon realized that being serious all the time is not a virtue but actually a hindrance on the spiritual path.Â
For us Osho devotees, JOY and LAUGHTER were the preferred portals to liberation.
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đ The tale of the laughing Buddhas đ
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In the ancient Taoist and Zen traditions, mystics and masters often used humour to illuminate their teachings on life and death. They believed that enlightenment could be intertwined with laughter, turning even the solemn moment of death into an opportunity for spiritual insight and joy.
A memorable story from these traditions involves the 3 Laughing Buddhas from the ancient Chinese traditions. Their teachings were simple yet profound, centered on the power of laughter. They would journey from village to village, carrying sacks full of sweets, distributing them while laughing heartily. Their infectious laughter would soon have the whole village joining in, creating a communal experience of joy and light-heartedness.
One of the Laughing Buddhas, nearing the end of his life, planned his departure with a characteristic blend of humor and wisdom.
He told his brethren, âWhen I die, donât wash me or change my clothes. I have already bathed and am already wearing my ceremonial clothes. Just take me directly to the funeral pyre!âÂ
His comrades agreed to honour his last request.
After his passing, as the villagers gathered to pay their respects, they were met with a surprising twist.Â
As his body was set alight on the funeral pyre, fireworks hidden in his clothes ignited, creating a spectacular display.Â
Even in death, he shared the gift of laughter, leaving behind a legacy that laughter is an integral part of our journey between Life and Death.
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đšđ»âđŹ The science behind Laughter đšđ»âđŹ
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A fascinating study into the subject of âAccelerated Learningâ reveals the impact of humour on learning and memory retention.Â
Studies conducted in Russia and the USA have identified key strategies for enhancing the learning process which was -
- 20 minutes of 5 sense learning followed by 20 minutes laying down and listening to baroque music helps the learner absorb the information and retain it in the deepest part of the brain.Â
- Interestingly, hearing a risqué joke further deepens the retention of the new learnings.
The underlying principle is that sexual arousal, often triggered by humor, heightens sensory awareness, making the brain more receptive to learning.Â
Oshoâs frequent use of provocative jokes, therefore, was more than just a means to entertain; it was a calculated method to enhance the learning experience.Â
His playful storytelling not only made spiritual discourses more engaging but also facilitated a deeper assimilation of his teachings. This approach fostered a community atmosphere where love, laughter, and learning thrived, showcasing his multidimensional approach to education and enlightenment. |