See God in Every Human Being Through the Lens of Yoga

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel disconnected—from ourselves, from one another, and from something greater than us. But what if there was a simple way to bring more peace and purpose into our lives? Yoga offers exactly that. Not just through physical postures, but through a deeper understanding of how to see the divine in everyone around us.

What Does It Mean to See God in Every Human Being?

It's a beautiful idea, yes—but also a powerful one. Seeing God in every person doesn’t mean imagining everyone with a glowing halo. It means recognizing the divine spark—the soul—within every human being. Every smile, every kind word, every act of compassion holds a reflection of the sacred. When we truly appreciate that, our relationships—and our lives—can transform for the better.

But how do we begin to adopt this perspective? This is where yoga comes in. Yoga offers not only techniques for physical wellness but also tools for spiritual and emotional growth. It gently guides us toward compassion, awareness, and understanding—the ingredients we need to see life, and others, through a divine lens.

Yoga: More Than Just Poses

When many people hear the word “yoga,” they imagine stretching exercises or difficult poses. But yoga is much more than that. In its truest form, yoga is a way of life. It's about creating union—first within ourselves, and then with the world around us.

The word “Yoga” itself comes from the Sanskrit root “Yuj”, which means “to join” or “to unite.” And what are we uniting? Mind, body, soul—and ultimately, the individual soul with the Universal Soul.

This unity helps us see beyond someone's outer appearance or temporary behavior. Instead of reacting with judgment or frustration, yoga helps us respond with empathy and love. That’s what it means to see God in others.

Simple Ways to Practice Seeing the Divine in Others

It may sound like a lofty goal, but seeing God in every human being doesn’t require you to become a monk. It just requires practice, patience, and a gentle shift in mindset. Here are a few simple ways to start:

• Practice empathy: Next time someone annoys you or disappoints you, take a moment to breathe. Try to imagine what they might be going through. Everyone is fighting their own battles.
• Start your day with gratitude: When we focus on the good, we’re more likely to see the good in others too.
• Use kind words: Words have power. A gentle tone or compassionate comment can light up someone’s entire day.
• Meditate daily: Even 5–10 minutes of quiet time can help still your mind and open your heart.
• Practice Seva (Selfless Service): Helping others without expecting anything in return is a great way to connect with the divine presence in them—and in you.

Think of each person like a candle. Some shine brightly, while others may be dimmed by pain or hardship. When we connect with others with kindness, it's like offering a spark to help reignite their light.

How Yoga Philosophy Guides Us to Honor the Divine Within

The ancient teachings of yoga—especially as written in texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras—emphasize inner connection. One core idea is that divinity is not outside of us; it exists within all beings.

There’s a beautiful Sanskrit phrase: “Tat Tvam Asi”, which means “You Are That.” It reminds us that we are all expressions of the same divine energy. When we truly absorb that message, it becomes harder to hold onto anger, jealousy, or hatred.

Instead of seeing people as "others," we begin to see reflections of ourselves—perhaps even reflections of God.

What Happens When We Start Living This Way?

Living this truth isn’t always easy, but it is always rewarding. When we begin to treat others as divine beings—worthy of love, respect, and kindness—something shifts. Not just in them, but in us.

We become more patient, forgiving, and understanding. Arguments lose their edge. Acts of service feel fulfilling instead of draining. And ordinary moments take on a special glow.

For example, think about someone who regularly challenges your patience—maybe a coworker, a difficult relative, or even a stranger who cuts you off in traffic. Instead of reacting with frustration, try silently saying to yourself:
"They too carry the divine, just like I do."

You might be surprised how this simple perspective can dissolve conflict and bring peace—not only to the situation but to your own heart as well.

Real-Life Insights: A Personal Story

I remember a time when I volunteered at a local shelter. One day, an elderly man walked in, angry and shouting. Everyone kept their distance, but something nudged me to sit beside him. I listened. Slowly, the anger melted. Turns out, he had just lost his wife and felt utterly alone.

That moment taught me more than any book or class ever could. When we look past the surface and into someone’s soul, we often find pain—but also beauty. And when we respond with compassion, we don’t just help them heal—we heal too.

Bringing It All Together

So, how can you begin seeing God in every human being, starting today? You don’t need to recite mantras or spend hours meditating (though those can help!). You just need to:

• Be present: Really see the people you interact with—friends, family, strangers.
• Respond, don't react: Pause before speaking. Listen with your heart.
• Lead with love: Whether it’s a smile, kind word, or helping hand—offer something positive.

Yoga teaches us that each act, no matter how small, can become a form of prayer. Every connection becomes a reflection of the divine.

Final Thoughts: A Practice Worth Pursuing

Seeing God in every human being is not a destination—it’s a daily journey. Some days it feels natural; other days, it may feel nearly impossible. But as with yoga itself, the practice is what matters.

By choosing to look for light in others, even when it's hidden, we invite more light into our own lives. We become kinder, more centered, and more connected—not only to those around us but to the infinite presence that lives in each of us.

And maybe that’s what yoga is all about—not just touching our toes, but touching hearts.