THE FOUR STAGES OF THE SOUL: THE PADAS IN SAIVA SIDDHANTA

The Four Stages of the Soul: The Padas in Saiva Siddhanta

In the Saiva Siddhanta system, the soul's journey toward liberation is not a sudden leap, but a gradual and harmonious evolution through four stages called Padas. These stages are like the rungs of a ladder that lead the devotee from external service to internal union with Shiva.



1. Charya (Practical Service)

This is the stage of "selfless service" (Dasa Bhava). It is the beginning of the path, where we serve God through His creation.

  • What it means: Cleaning the temple, caring for the sick, preparing the environment, tending gardens, and helping other beings.

  • In daily life: When you clean your home with dedication, care for animals, and prepare the "temple" of your household, you are practicing Charya. It is the foundation that generates humility.

  • Result: The seeker reaches Saloka (living in the world of God).

2. Kriya (Worship and Ritual)

Here, service becomes deeper and more focused. It is the stage of "filial love" (Satputra Bhava).

  • What it means: It involves rites, specific prayers, meditation with mantras, and formal worship. It is the time to establish a rhythmic spiritual discipline.

  • In daily life: All daily activities are performed as if they were sacred acts.

  • Result: The seeker reaches Samipya (living in the proximity of God).

3. Yoga (Internal Contemplation)

At this stage, external worship turns inward. It is the "friendship with the Divine" (Sakhya Bhava).

  • What it means: The control of the mind and senses to perceive the presence of Shiva within one's own heart. It is a state of withdrawal and deep meditation.

  • In daily life: It is finding silence in the midst of chaos. Even when the world outside seems to be falling apart, you are able to "shift to another plane" and find a point of internal peace to observe reality.

  • Result: The seeker reaches Sarupya (acquiring the form/nature of God).

4. Jnana (Knowledge and Wisdom)

The pinnacle of the journey, the stage of the "path of truth" (Sanmarga).

  • What it means: The direct perception that there is no separation between the soul, the world, and Shiva. It is the final enlightenment, where Love becomes pure Knowledge.

  • In daily life: It is total clarity. It is understanding the cycle of life and death without the veil of illusion, accepting Grace in all things.

  • Result: The seeker reaches Sayujya (complete union with God).

Why are the Four Padas important?

Saiva Siddhanta teaches that no one can skip these steps. The practice of Charya (caring and cleaning) purifies the subconscious so that Jnana (wisdom) may eventually shine through.

This structure shows us that all work is sacred. There is no separation between the "spiritual" and the "everyday." The act of washing a floor or feeding a hungry animal is the essential first step toward becoming a master of wisdom.

Learn more about Saiva Siddhanta Philosophy by clicking here:

https://www.sivayoga.com.br/2026/01/saiva-siddhanta-philosophy-free-english.html

Sivayoga 

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