Yoga and meditation have become popular worldwide, often presented as physical exercises or relaxation techniques. However, for the Bible-believing Christian, it is vital to evaluate these practices not just culturally or medically, but spiritually and theologically, in light of God’s Word.
I. Understanding the Roots of Yoga and Meditation
- Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word yuj, meaning yoke or unite. In Hindu philosophy, yoga is a spiritual discipline aimed at uniting the self (atman) with the divine (Brahman).
- Meditation in Hinduism or Buddhism involves emptying the mind, chanting mantras, or focusing inward to achieve enlightenment, detachment, or moksha (liberation).
These practices are not neutral; they are deeply religious, embedded in pagan worldview assumptions about God, self, and salvation.
“What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God.” (2 Corinthians 6:16)
II. Biblical Teaching on the Body, Mind, and Worship
- The Body Is for the Lord
The body is not a vehicle for spiritual detachment but is created for holy living in service to God. - The Mind Is to Be Renewed, Not Emptied
Scripture calls for the renewal of the mind, not the emptying of it. - Meditation in Scripture Is God-centered
Biblical meditation focuses not on self, breath, or silence, but on the Word of God and His works.
“Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God…” (Romans 12:1)
“Be transformed by the renewal of your mind…” (Romans 12:2)
“You shall meditate on it day and night…” (Joshua 1:8)
“I will meditate on Your precepts and fix my eyes on Your ways.” (Psalm 119:15)
III. Dangers of Eastern Yoga and Meditation
|
Eastern Practice |
Biblical Concern |
|
Yoga as union with Brahman |
Contradicts biblical teaching of one Creator distinct from creation (Romans 1:25) |
|
Chanting mantras (often names of gods) |
Involves invoking pagan deities, violating the First Commandment (Exodus 20:3–5) |
|
Mind-emptying meditation |
Opens the door to spiritual deception (1 Peter 5:8; 2 Corinthians 11:14) |
|
Seeking self-realization/divinity |
Promotes self-deification, contrary to humility before God (Isaiah 42:8; James 4:6–7) |
IV. A Biblical Alternative: Worship and Christ-centered Meditation
- Christian meditation means filling your mind with Scripture, remembering God’s promises, and delighting in His truth (Psalm 1:2).
- Prayer, praise, and thanksgiving are true paths to peace and spiritual renewal (Philippians 4:6–8).
- Rest and physical health are essential, but must be pursued in a God-honoring way that avoids spiritual compromise.
“For bodily training is of some value, but godliness is of value in every way…” (1 Timothy 4:8)
V. Summary: Be Discerning and Set Apart
Christians are not called to adopt practices rooted in idolatry or false religion, even if repackaged as health or wellness.
“Test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21–22)
Instead, pursue:
- God-glorifying rest and exercise
- Scripture-based meditation
- Christ-centered peace through the Holy Spirit