Beyond the Poses: Uncovering Yoga’s Spiritual Roots
- Wired for Christ
- Apr 3
- 5 min read
Listen to Article | Text to SpeechWired for Christ
A Matter of Wisdom, Not Salvation
As followers of Christ, we are called to pursue holiness and discernment in all areas of life (1 Peter 1:15-16; Philippians 1:9-10). While some topics directly pertain to salvation—such as faith in Christ alone (John 14:6; Ephesians 2:8-9)—others fall into the category of Christian wisdom and careful decision-making. Yoga is one such topic.
Many believers practice yoga for its physical benefits, viewing it as nothing more than exercise. However, it is crucial to examine its origins, spiritual influences, and whether it aligns with biblical principles. This is not an issue of condemning fellow Christians but rather providing information so that each believer can make a fully informed decision.
Yoga’s Deep-Rooted Ties to Hinduism and Eastern Mysticism
Yoga is not merely a physical practice; it is an integral part of Hinduism, designed as a spiritual discipline to unite the practitioner with Brahman, the Hindu concept of the ultimate divine. The word yoga itself comes from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning “to yoke” or “to unite.” In Hindu teachings, this union is between the individual and the divine, often understood as self-realization or enlightenment.
Hindu scriptures, such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads, present yoga as a means of spiritual awakening and detachment from the material world. It is not an incidental aspect of Hinduism but a primary pathway to achieving spiritual enlightenment.
To practice yoga as originally intended is to engage in a spiritual exercise deeply opposed to the exclusive worship of the one true God (Exodus 20:3-5; Isaiah 42:8).
Even seemingly neutral yoga practices, such as Hatha Yoga (which focuses on postures and breathing), are rooted in Hindu worship. The poses themselves are often named after and designed to honor Hindu deities. For example, the Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is a series of poses historically used in Hindu rituals to worship the sun god.
While many Christians attempt to “redeem” yoga by removing the spiritual aspects, it is important to ask whether something so deeply connected to idolatry can be neutralized. Scripture warns us against participating in anything that has its roots in pagan worship, even if our intent is not to engage in idolatry (Deuteronomy 12:30-31; 1 Corinthians 10:20-21).
Biblical Warnings Against Mixing Pagan Practices with Christian Faith
The Bible consistently warns against adopting pagan practices, even if our intent is not to engage in idolatry. God repeatedly commanded Israel not to borrow the religious customs of the surrounding nations (Deuteronomy 18:9-12; 2 Kings 17:33).
The Apostle Paul exhorted believers not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers or to partake in spiritual practices that contradict Christ’s lordship (2 Corinthians 6:14-17).
Even if a Christian does not intend to engage in the spiritual aspects of yoga, we must consider whether participating in it sends a mixed message to others. Paul’s teaching on eating food sacrificed to idols (1 Corinthians 8) reminds us that, while some things may not be inherently sinful, they can still be unwise and lead others into confusion or compromise.
An Alternative: Biblical Meditation and Stewardship of the Body
A. Biblical Examples of Meditation
Biblical meditation is very different from Eastern meditation. Instead of emptying the mind, it involves filling the mind with God’s Word, pondering His truth, and focusing on Him.
Isaac (Genesis 24:63) – “And Isaac went out to meditate in the field toward evening. And he lifted up his eyes and saw, and behold, the camels were coming.”
Isaac’s example shows that meditation can be a time of solitude and reflection on the Lord.
Joshua (Joshua 1:8) – “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
Joshua was commanded to meditate on God’s Law continually, showing that biblical meditation is deeply tied to obedience and wisdom.
David (Psalm 1:2) – “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.”
David describes the righteous person as someone who meditates on God’s Word constantly.
Psalm 119:15 – “I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.”
Again, biblical meditation involves deep reflection on God’s commands and His ways, not emptying the mind but filling it with truth.
These examples show that biblical meditation is active, thoughtful engagement with God’s Word, rather than passive or mystical contemplation.
B. Biblical Examples of Physical Training
While the Bible does not emphasize exercise in the way modern culture does, it acknowledges the value of physical discipline while emphasizing that spiritual training is more important.
Paul’s Athletic Metaphors (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) –
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.”
Paul compares the Christian life to an athlete’s training, emphasizing self-control and discipline.
1 Timothy 4:8 – “For bodily training is of some value, but godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”
Paul acknowledges that physical training has value, but spiritual training is more important. This verse encourages believers to prioritize holiness while still recognizing the benefits of exercise.
Proverbs 31:17 – “She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong.”
This verse about the Proverbs 31 woman suggests that maintaining physical strength is a good thing, even for godly living.
David’s Physical Strength (Psalm 18:34, 39) – “He trains my hands for war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.”
David acknowledges that God strengthened him physically to accomplish his calling.
Instead of engaging in yoga, Christians can practice biblical meditation—filling their minds with Scripture—and engage in physical exercise that is not connected to idolatry. Whether through stretching, strength training, or endurance activities, we can keep our bodies healthy while ensuring our focus remains on Christ.
Conclusion: A Call to Discernment
The issue of yoga is not a matter of salvation, but it is a matter of wisdom. While some believers may sincerely see it as “just exercise,” we must carefully consider its origins, spiritual implications, and whether it glorifies God.
As Paul reminds us,
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” —1 Corinthians 10:31
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