Introduction

Nijanand School is a unique and profound school of religious and philosophical thought that emerged in India during the 17th century. This philosophy, founded by Shri Devchandraji, delves deep into the nature of reality, the soul, and the ultimate goal of human life. Central to Nijanand/Pranami philosophy are the concepts of Kshar, Akshar, and Paramdham, which describe distinct cosmic realms and provide insight into the soul’s spiritual journey.

Note: Though Nijanand is the original identity, some also refer to it as Pranami because all followers of the Universal Order of Nijanand greet everyone, irrespective of age or sex, by bending down Pranam with folded hands.

1.    Kshar – The Material Realm

Kshar, the first cosmic Realm in Nijanand philosophy, represents our material world. It encompasses the entire physical universe, including our Earth, the stars, galaxies, and everything that can be perceived through our senses. In Kshar, individuals are bound by the cycle of birth and death, and they experience the duality of pleasure and pain, happiness and suffering. This Realm represents the manifested Cosmos of universes or Universe of universes. As per Christianity, this can be referred to as the Lower Heaven, and as per Islamic tradition, it represents Malkoot. The Principle or the Lord of this Realm is the Creator God, Aadi Narayan – for Hindus, the Lord of the Lower Heaven – for Christians and La Principle – for Muslims.

According to this philosophy, the material realm is impermanent and constantly changing. Human life in Kshar is a precious opportunity for the soul to evolve and progress toward higher states of consciousness.

2.    Akshar – The Intermediate Realm

Akshar is the second cosmic Realm in Nijanand philosophy, situated between the material world (Kshar) and the ultimate spiritual Realm (Paramdham). It is often described as the bridge or intermediary state through which the soul must pass on its journey toward liberation. In Akshar, the soul experiences a deeper spiritual awareness and detaches from worldly attachments. As per Christianity, this can be referred to as the Upper Heaven or the Kingdom of God, and as per Islam, it represents the Jabroot or Sadar-Tul-Muntaha. The Principle or the Lord of this Realm is the Eternal Lord (Akshar Brahm) – for Hindus, the Lord of the Upper Heaven – for Christians, and Noor Jalaal – for Muslims.

Within Akshar, individuals strive to transcend their egos, desires, and attachments. Meditation, self-realization, and devotion play a crucial role in this Realm, as they guide the soul towards a higher state of consciousness and prepare it for the ultimate union with the Divine.

3.    Paramdham – The Ultimate Spiritual Realm

Paramdham, the third and final cosmic Realm in Nijanand philosophy, represents the ultimate destination for the soul. It is the Realm of pure, unbounded, and eternal divine consciousness. Paramdham is often described as the abode of the Supreme Being or the highest state of spiritual realization, where the individual soul attains the Supreme Consciousness. This Realm is called the Supreme Heaven in Christianity and ArseAzeem or Lahoot in Islam.

In Paramdham, the soul is believed to attain complete liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It experiences a state of eternal bliss, unity, and oneness with the Divine. According to Nijanand philosophy, this is the ultimate goal of human life—to transcend the limitations of the material world (Kshar) and the intermediate Realm (Akshar) and merge with the divine essence in Paramdham (Par-Brahm/Aksharateet)—Hinduism, Lord of the Supreme Heaven—Christianity, and Allah or Noor Jamaal—Islam.

Practices and Pathways

Nijanand’s philosophy provides a structured path for individuals to progress through these cosmic realms and reach the state of Paramdham. The key practices include:

  1. Devotion (Bhakti): Devotion to the Supreme Being is central to this philosophy. It involves surrendering one’s ego and desires to the Divine and cultivating a loving and selfless relationship with God.
  2. Meditation and Self-Realization: Meditation is a means to turn inward, explore the inner dimensions of the self, and realize one’s true nature as a soul on a spiritual journey.

    Note: The specific meditation undertaken as guided by the Supreme Lord’s incarnation (as His Exalted Power) is known as Chitwani and involves fixing one’s consciousness on the Supreme Lord’s dual form. Though non-dual, the dual form appears as part of the Lord’s self-sportive dualism, known as Swalila Advait. Though Non-Dual and Singular, He appears in a Dual Form as part of his self-sportive dualism.
  3. Service (Seva): Selfless service to humanity is encouraged to purify the soul and develop compassion.
  4. Study of Scriptures: The teachings of Shri Devchandraji and other revered texts (Kulzama), the 14 books of Tartamic Wisdom, are studied to gain a deeper understanding of the philosophy and its principles.

Conclusion

The Nijanand/Pranami philosophy’s cosmic framework of Kshar, Akshar, and Paramdham offers a profound perspective on the nature of existence and the soul’s spiritual journey. It teaches that by progressing through these cosmic realms with devotion, meditation, and self-realization, individuals can ultimately attain liberation and experience the eternal bliss of Paramdham. This philosophy inspires spiritual seekers to explore the depths of their consciousness and strive for the highest state of spiritual realization.