Introduction

Nine Part Datta Sadhana

If we picture the sphere of Datta sadhana like a pyramid, then the non-dual perspective that is shared within Avadhuta Gita would be situated at the top. Underneath that, composing the rest of the pyramid, would be the foundational elements that are required to maintain the non-dual perspective, integrate it into our daily lives and eventually perfect it into the state of full enlightenment—the state of avadhuta.

The ultimate goal of the MyDattatreya project is to allow all sincere beings to reach as far as possible in their spiritual evolution by walking a path that is natural, open, non-violent, and totally non-denominational and non-sectarian. Though when we reach the goal of the path—the state of avadhuta—there is actually nothing to practise, in order to reach that point we must apply a tremendous amount of firmness and discipline to first stabilise ourselves as content, loving individuals in this world, and then begin the process of deeply cleansing our minds before plunging into silent absorption within the equalised space of reality as it is.

If we do not have a solid base or foundation, then it is not possible to reach and maintain the highest spiritual vision. Therefore, for the benefit of all beings who wish to embrace the path of Lord Dattatreya, Jack Barratt, lead contributor and curator at MyDattatreya, has created a basic structure of sadhana that allows us to first build stability and then start gradually opening up our natural space of awareness.

This basis structure of sadhana can be practised by anyone. Even though it is usually seen as essential to have a guru or guide on the Datta path, this sadhana has been designed in a way that it can applied with or without the presence of guru.

The Architecture of the Nine Parts

The first five parts of this Datta sadhana are designed to help us stabilise as wise, loving and content individuals who are capable of living in such a way that truly benefits others. By practising these first four levels, from taking a basic non-violent stance in life to chanting and performing aarti every day, we can achieve a great deal of stability as individuals and we can easily come to live overall happy and fulfilling lives.

The final four parts of the sadhana are what serve to take us beyond individuality into universality. Contemplation allows us to loosen up the mind, awareness begins to take us beyond the mind, expression integrates awareness into the varied scenarios of daily life, and finally, absorption utterly dissolves the mind and restores us within our primordially enlightened essence.

However, there is absolutely no use in practising the final part, or even the final four parts of this sadhana, until we are already stable and enjoying the fruits of the first five parts.

What follows on each of the coming pages is a brief description of each distinct part of the Datta sadhana as well as some concise recommendations for how to effectively practise them.