Article | June 6, 1989
Sadhguru: The questions “Why are we here?” and “What is our purpose in life?” have been asked by philosophers, mystics, and ordinary people for millennia. These are not just philosophical musings but deep, existential questions that touch every aspect of human existence. Whether we are consciously aware of it or not, the search for purpose drives much of what we do. It affects how we live, how we perceive the world, and how we interact with others.
Throughout history, various cultures, religions, and philosophical schools have offered different answers to these questions. Some point to spiritual or religious frameworks, while others emphasize existential, personal, or even scientific perspectives. In this article, we will explore these different viewpoints, addressing what may be humanity's most profound inquiry: Why are we here? And What is our purpose in life?
#1. The Search for Meaning: A Universal Human Trait
A Question That Defines Us
The search for meaning is universal. Across cultures, epochs, and belief systems, humans have always sought to understand the reasons behind their existence. In ancient times, people found purpose in survival, community, and mythology. Religion provided answers, with gods and deities offering explanations for creation and purpose. Modernity, however, has complicated our understanding of purpose. As science has grown, explaining more of the physical universe, it has not necessarily given us answers to the deeper existential questions. This has left a gap between knowledge and meaning—a gap that humans continue to seek to fill.
The Modern Existential Dilemma
In the modern age, the rapid pace of life and the abundance of distractions have often left people feeling disconnected from their deeper sense of purpose. Technology, consumerism, and social media create the illusion of fulfilment, but many find these pursuits ultimately hollow. Despite advancements in material comfort and scientific understanding, the existential question of “Why are we here?” remains ever relevant, perhaps more so now than ever before.
With so many competing ideologies, from religious to secular, from spiritual to nihilistic, the question of purpose feels both urgent and elusive. Many of us seek answers not only in traditional sources but also in new philosophies, self-help movements, and even personal development frameworks.
#2.Finding Purpose Through Faith
In the vast and intricate tapestry of human life, one of the most profound questions we ask ourselves is, “Why am I here? What is my purpose?” For centuries, faith and spirituality have offered answers to these existential questions, providing solace, direction, and meaning. The spiritual journey, for many, is not just about rituals or beliefs but about tapping into a deeper, transcendent understanding of existence. It is through this connection to something greater than ourselves that we begin to uncover our purpose and find true fulfilment.
#1. Faith as the Foundation of Purpose
At the heart of many spiritual traditions lies the belief that life has a purpose—a divine intention or cosmic reason for our existence. Whether it’s through the teachings of ancient scriptures, the guidance of spiritual masters, or the practice of meditation and prayer, faith offers a framework for understanding why we are here.
In most spiritual paths, purpose is not defined by worldly success, material wealth, or societal validation. Instead, it is about aligning oneself with a higher consciousness, a greater truth that transcends the physical world. This is where faith becomes essential. Faith is the inner knowing that there is more to life than what meets the eye. It provides the strength to trust in the unseen and to follow a path even when the destination is not clear.
Surrendering to Divine Will
In spiritual traditions like Hinduism, surrendering to divine will is a core aspect of living a purposeful life. This surrender is not about giving up personal desires but about aligning those desires with a higher, universal purpose. As the Bhagavad Gita teaches, one must perform their duties without attachment to the results, offering every action as a form of worship.
In this way, faith becomes the foundation upon which purpose is built. It encourages trust in the divine order, fostering a sense of peace and purpose that transcends worldly ambitions and fears.
#2. Purpose as a Journey, Not a Destination
In spirituality, the search for purpose is seen not as a destination but as a journey—a continuous process of unfolding and discovery. This journey is deeply personal, and it is through our connection with the divine or the higher self that we begin to understand our unique role in the universe.
Through spiritual practices such as meditation, contemplation, or prayer, we cultivate an inner awareness that guides us toward our purpose. In this space of stillness, the noise of the world fades, and we begin to listen to the whispers of our souls. It is in these moments of connection with the divine that our purpose reveals itself—not as a fixed goal, but as an ever-evolving expression of our true nature.
The Concept of Dharma
In Hindu philosophy, dharma refers to the cosmic law and order that governs the universe, as well as the individual’s duty within that order. Each person has their dharma, their unique purpose or role in the grand scheme of existence. Discovering and living one’s dharma is seen as essential to living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
However, dharma is not static. It evolves as we grow and change. What may be our purpose at one stage of life may shift as we gain new insights and experiences. This dynamic aspect of purpose is a reminder that life is a fluid journey of self-discovery, guided by the divine.
#3. The Role of Self-Realization in Finding Purpose
At the core of many spiritual traditions is the concept of self-realization—the recognition of one’s true nature beyond the ego and physical body. In Vedanta, for example, the purpose of life is to realize the Self, the Atman, which is not separate from the ultimate reality, or Brahman. When one attains this realization, the illusion of separateness dissolves, and one’s purpose becomes clear.
Self-realization leads to the understanding that our purpose is not just about personal fulfilment but about contributing to the collective evolution of consciousness. When we recognize that we are all interconnected, our purpose expands beyond the individual self to include the well-being of all living beings and the planet as a whole.
#4. Service as an Expression of Purpose
One of the most powerful ways faith and spirituality guide us toward purpose is through service. Many spiritual paths emphasize the importance of selfless service, or seva, as a way to align with one’s higher purpose. By serving others, we move beyond the limitations of the ego and connect with the divine in all beings.
In Christianity, the teachings of Jesus emphasize love and service as central to living a meaningful life. “Love thy neighbour as thyself” is not just a moral directive but a path to realizing one’s purpose through compassion and service. Similarly, in Buddhism, the path of the Bodhisattva is one of dedicating oneself to the service of all sentient beings, putting the well-being of others before personal liberation.
When we serve with love and compassion, we begin to experience a deeper sense of fulfillment that is not dependent on external rewards. Service becomes a way of embodying our purpose, allowing us to contribute to the greater good and experience the interconnectedness of all life.
#5. The Power of Faith in Times of Uncertainty
One of the most profound ways that faith helps us find purpose is by providing strength during times of uncertainty, suffering, or confusion. Life is full of challenges, and it is often in our darkest moments that we question our purpose. Why am I here? What is the point of all this suffering?
Faith offers a perspective that goes beyond the immediate circumstances, reminding us that every experience—good or bad—has meaning and contributes to our spiritual growth. In the words of the Sufi mystic Rumi, “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” Our struggles and hardships are not random but are opportunities for deepening our connection to the divine and understanding our purpose on a more profound level.
In moments of doubt, faith gives us the resilience to keep moving forward, trusting that there is a higher purpose at work even when we cannot see it. This faith in the unseen, in the divine plan, helps us navigate life’s uncertainties with grace and courage.
#6. Living with Purpose: Practical Spiritual Steps
1. Cultivate Inner Awareness
The purpose is not something that can be found externally. It is an inner calling that reveals itself through self-awareness and connection to the divine. Practices like meditation, prayer, and mindfulness are essential tools for cultivating this inner awareness. By quieting the mind and turning inward, we create the space for our true purpose to emerge.
2. Surrender and Trust in the Divine Plan
Faith teaches us to surrender to the divine will and trust that everything is unfolding as it should. This surrender is not passive but active—a conscious choice to let go of control and trust in the higher wisdom of the universe. When we surrender, we align ourselves with the flow of life, and our purpose becomes clearer.
3. Serve Others with Love
One of the most direct ways to live a purposeful life is through service. Whether it’s through small acts of kindness or larger contributions to your community, serving others allows you to embody your purpose tangibly. When we serve with love, we align ourselves with the divine purpose of unity and compassion.
4. Stay Open to Growth
Spiritual growth is a lifelong process, and so is the discovery of your purpose. Stay open to new experiences, challenges, and growth opportunities. Every moment is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of your purpose and align more fully with your higher self.
Faith as the Guiding Light to Purpose
In the spiritual journey, purpose is not something we achieve but something we live. It is an ongoing process of alignment with our higher self, the divine, and the collective good. Faith provides the foundation, the strength, and the direction we need to discover and live our purpose with authenticity and grace.
By cultivating inner awareness, trusting in the divine plan, serving others, and embracing the journey of growth, we can live a life of purpose that is not only fulfilling but deeply meaningful. In the end, the question of why we are here is answered not by words but by the way we live, with love, service, and connection to the divine guiding our every step.
#3. Philosophical Perspectives: From Existentialism to
Humanism
Existentialism: Creating Meaning in an Absurd World
In stark contrast to religious views, existentialism—a philosophical movement that gained prominence in the 20th century—argues that life has no inherent meaning. According to existentialist thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, humans are thrown into existence without a predefined purpose, and it is up to each individual to create meaning through their choices and actions.
Sartre famously proclaimed that “existence precedes essence,” meaning that we are born without any predetermined purpose or essence, and it is through living that we define who we are. In this view, purpose is not given to us but something we must create for ourselves. This can be both liberating and daunting, as it places the responsibility for meaning squarely on our shoulders.
Camus, in his essay "The Myth of Sisyphus," addresses the absurdity of life. He argues that life is inherently without meaning, and yet, we must continue to live in defiance of this absurdity. The act of continuing, despite the lack of inherent meaning, is what gives life its purpose.
Existentialism encourages individuals to embrace freedom and authenticity, making choices that reflect their true selves rather than conforming to societal expectations. While existentialists reject the idea of an externally imposed purpose, they affirm the power of the individual to create personal meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.
Humanism: Purpose Through Growth and Contribution
Another philosophical approach to purpose is humanism, which emphasizes the inherent value and dignity of human beings. Humanism posits that life’s purpose can be found in personal growth, ethical living, and contributing to the well-being of others. Unlike existentialism, which can feel bleak, humanism offers a more optimistic view of human potential and the capacity for goodness.
Secular humanists argue that even in the absence of a divine plan, humans can lead meaningful lives by fostering empathy, pursuing knowledge, and working toward a just society. The purpose of life, from a humanistic perspective, lies in the pursuit of happiness, fulfilment, and the betterment of humanity.
Humanism emphasizes the importance of reason, science, and education in understanding our place in the world. It encourages individuals to live morally and to seek purpose in personal growth and social responsibility.
#4. The Scientific Perspective: Are We Simply Biological Beings?
From a strictly scientific standpoint, humans are biological organisms that evolved over millions of years. Some scientists argue that our primary purpose, like that of all living organisms, is to survive and reproduce. This evolutionary perspective suggests that our behaviours, emotions, and even our search for meaning are driven by natural selection.
Richard Dawkins, in his book The Selfish Gene, argues that we are mere vehicles for our genes, whose primary goal is to replicate themselves. In this view, purpose is an illusion created by the need to pass on genetic material to future generations.
Neuroscience also offers insights into our sense of purpose, revealing that feelings of meaning and fulfilment are closely tied to brain chemistry. When we engage in activities that align with our values or contribute to the well-being of others, our brains release dopamine and other chemicals associated with pleasure and reward. This reinforces the idea that purpose, while abstract, has tangible effects on our biology.
While the scientific view may seem reductionist, it does not necessarily deny the existence of purpose. Instead, it suggests that our sense of purpose may be a byproduct of evolution—a tool that helps us navigate the complexities of life, form social bonds, and ensure the survival of our species.
#5. Personal Purpose: The Unique Journey of the Individual
Finding Your Purpose
While religious, philosophical, and scientific perspectives provide broad answers to the question of purpose, it is ultimately up to each individual to discover their unique path. Personal purpose often emerges from a combination of self-reflection, experience, and values.
Self-Reflection and Values
To discover personal purpose, it’s important to engage in self-reflection. Ask yourself:
What brings you joy and fulfilment?
What values are most important to you?
What are your unique talents and abilities?
What impact do you want to have on the world?
Understanding your values and passions can help you clarify your purpose. For example, if you value creativity and helping others, your purpose may lie in teaching or the arts. If you are passionate about social justice, your purpose may involve advocacy or activism.
Life’s Challenges and Purpose
Interestingly, the purpose is often shaped by challenges, hardships, and suffering. Many people find that their most difficult experiences—loss, illness, or failure—lead them to a deeper understanding of their purpose. These challenges provide opportunities for growth, empathy, and resilience, which in turn help shape one’s mission in life.
The story of Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, exemplifies this. In his book Man’s Search for Meaning, Frankl writes that even in the most dehumanizing conditions, individuals can find purpose by choosing how to respond to their circumstances. Frankl’s experience led him to develop logotherapy, a form of psychotherapy based on the idea that the search for meaning is the primary drive in human life. For Frankl, purpose is not something handed to us but something we create through our attitudes and choices, especially in the face of suffering.
#6. The Intersection of Purpose and Happiness
Purpose as a Path to Fulfillment
There is a deep connection between purpose and happiness. Studies have shown that individuals who have a clear sense of purpose tend to experience higher levels of well-being, satisfaction, and even physical health. Purpose provides a sense of direction, motivation, and resilience, helping individuals navigate life’s ups and downs with greater ease.
However, it’s important to distinguish between hedonic happiness—pleasure derived from external sources—and eudaimonic happiness—a deeper sense of fulfilment that comes from living in alignment with one’s values and purpose. While hedonic happiness is fleeting, eudaimonic happiness is enduring, providing a sense of meaning and satisfaction that transcends momentary pleasures.
In this sense, purpose is not about constant happiness or success but about living authentically and making a positive impact on the world.
7. Purpose in the Modern World: Challenges and Opportunities
The Modern Crisis of Meaning
In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, the search for purpose can be more challenging than ever. Many people feel lost, overwhelmed, or disconnected from deeper meaning. The pressures of work, social media, and consumerism often lead to burnout and a sense of emptiness.
Additionally, the secularization of society has left some individuals without the traditional religious or spiritual frameworks that once provided answers to questions of purpose. This has led to a modern crisis of meaning, with many people searching for purpose in an increasingly complex and uncertain world.
Opportunities for Finding Purpose
Despite these challenges, the modern world also offers new opportunities for finding purpose. The rise of personal development, mindfulness, and wellness movements reflects a growing awareness of the importance of purpose and meaning in life. Many people are turning to these practices as a way to reconnect with their deeper selves and find a sense of purpose beyond material success.
Moreover, the global interconnectedness of the modern world provides countless opportunities for individuals to make a positive impact on a larger scale. From environmental activism to social justice movements, there are numerous ways to contribute to the greater good and find purpose in helping others.
8. Crafting a Purposeful Life: Practical Steps
1. Clarify Your Values and Passions
One of the first steps in discovering your purpose is to clarify your values and passions. Reflect on what truly matters to you and what activities bring you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of meaning. Understanding your values can help you align your life with your purpose.
2. Set Meaningful Goals
Once you have a clearer understanding of your values and passions, set meaningful goals that reflect them. These goals should challenge you but also feel attainable and in alignment with your deeper sense of purpose. Whether it’s personal growth, career success, or making a difference in the world, setting purpose-driven goals can give you a sense of direction and motivation.
3. Embrace Growth and Learning
A purposeful life involves continuous growth and learning. Seek opportunities to expand your knowledge, develop new skills, and challenge yourself. Personal development and self-discovery are key elements of living a life of purpose.
4. Serve Others
One of the most fulfilling ways to find purpose is through service to others. Acts of kindness, compassion, and contribution to the well-being of others help you connect with a greater purpose beyond yourself. Volunteering, mentoring, or simply offering support to those around you can bring a deep sense of fulfillment and meaning.
5. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude
Living purposefully requires awareness and presence. Practice mindfulness to stay connected to the present moment and cultivate gratitude for the small joys in life. Gratitude helps shift your focus from what’s missing to what you have, fostering a sense of contentment and purpose.
Finding Meaning in the Journey
Ultimately, the question of “Why are we here?” and “What is our purpose in life?” may not have a single definitive answer. The purpose is deeply personal and may evolve as we grow and experience life’s challenges. Whether through faith, philosophy, personal reflection, or service, the search for meaning is a journey that each of us must undertake.
Living a life of purpose is not about reaching a final destination but about continuously aligning ourselves with our values, passions, and the greater good. In doing so, we can find fulfillment, joy, and a deeper sense of meaning in the everyday moments of life. So, while the answers may vary, the search itself is what gives life its richness and depth.
