Manifestation vs Law of Attraction: Key Differences and Benefits
Discover the difference between manifestation and the law of attraction. Learn techniques, benefits, and how to achieve material and spiritual harmony 📿
I received a message from an evolved reader, which translates into English as follows:
"I want to ask if it is true that we can really fulfils desires through manifestation. And if yes, then how do we practice law of attraction?"
This is a beautiful question that touches upon two commonly misunderstood concepts: Manifestation and the Law of Attraction. People often confuse the two and use them interchangeably. However, they are fundamentally different concepts.
In 2006, a movie titled “The Secret” popularised the concept of the Law of Attraction.. Over time, the Law of Attraction began to be called Manifestation, as if they were the same. But this is far from the truth. Before answering the question asked by the esteemed reader, let us first understand Manifestation vs Law of Attraction and how they differ.
Manifestation vs Law of Attraction: Key Differences Explained 📿
The difference between manifestation and Law of Attraction lies in their realms: Manifestation belongs to the spiritual realm, while the Law of Attraction operates in the material sphere.
Manifestation is not about what we want but about understanding who we are and who we are not. Manifestation is a part of self-discovery practices that emphasises awareness and consciousness. In contrast, the Law of Attraction relies heavily on visualisation techniques, assuming that focusing on a material outcome will bring it to fruition.
In manifestation, we focus on a broader vision of life. It involves universal alignment, where we co-create with the Universe as an integral part of it. The Law of Attraction, however, focuses heavily on the outcome, often leading to an obsession with achieving the desired result.
We are all under continuous influence of planetary energies. We should not be worried about so-called adverse placements of planets in our horoscope. Rather, we should practice manifestation. Manifestation positions us as observer, accepting what the Universe offers without labelling it as good or bad. On the other hand, the Law of Attraction encourages active effort to attain tangible objectives and positions us as doer.
Manifestation is Sattvic (pure and harmonious), while the Law of Attraction is Rajasik (active and materialistic). Manifestation delves into intangibles, while the Law of Attraction seeks tangible, material outcomes.
Can Manifestation Lead to Material Success? 📿
From my personal experience of analysing hundreds of horoscopes over two decades, I have noticed an intriguing connection between manifestation and material success. People who sincerely and consistently practice manifestation often attract huge material gains as a by-product. Beyond material gains, the spiritual benefits of manifestation include inner peace, self-discovery, and enhanced awareness.
However, these individuals display a sense of detachment toward their achievements. They view material success as a natural consequence of their spiritual journey rather than an exhilarating reward.
This approach has distinct advantages. Firstly, it cultivates a sama-bhava—an equanimous state of mind. Secondly, their detachment from outcomes allows them to view setbacks as stepping stones to success, fostering resilience and a calm mind. As a result, they can better identify opportunities and work with enhanced inner clarity, free from stress and confusion.
Law of attraction is also said to be materially rewarding. Isn’t it? 📿
One of the prevalent Law of Attraction myths is the assumption that it always works, but there is no empirical evidence to confirm this. One significant drawback of Law of Attraction is the tendency to obsess over goals. While this may initially motivate us or sustain our efforts, it often leads to exhaustion by the time we achieve the desired result.
Moreover, the sense of achievement tends to be fleeting. After reaching one goal, we often find ourselves chasing another, perpetuating a cycle of stress and temporary satisfaction.
Achieving goals with less stress, greater happiness, and deeper contentment is always preferable. Manifestation, by keeping us focused on maintaining the integrity of our process, allows the outcome to naturally unfold without becoming an obsession.
Interestingly, many who start by practicing the Law of Attraction often shift unknowingly toward manifestation. They find joy and satisfaction in the process itself, losing obsession with the outcome. In such cases, their success is better attributed to the principles of manifestation rather than the Law of Attraction.
I want to be materially successful but also happy, contended and stress free. Should I practice manifestation or law of attraction? 📿
If you aspire to be ambitious, materially successful, and happy, stress-free, and contented, manifestation is the clear choice. Self-discovery is the only path to lasting happiness and fulfilment. The Law of Attraction, with its focus on material goals, can be helpful in the initial stages of effort. However, it carries a significant Rajasik element.
Taking a cue out of Frederick Herzberg’s “Two-Factor Theory of Motivation”, we can say that when we consciously work towards something in stress, fear or desire of reward or punishment, and we achieve it without enjoying the process, we reach the stage of “not dissatisfied”, but “satisfaction” will remain elusive.
Manifestation, on the other hand, helps unlock our inner potential and allows the Universal flow to guide us without imposing our will upon it. Universe, through the planets, has blessed us in unique ways. We should continue to be ambitious. But we should also recognise that material progress alone does not contain the seeds of happiness and contentment. The laukik (perceptible) world provides material comfort, but the alaukik (imperceptible) world offers happiness and eternal peace. A fulfilling existence comes from achieving material and spiritual harmony rather than pursuing material progress alone. Manifestation emphasises stress-free goal achievement, prioritising happiness and contentment over anxiety and tension.
Practicing manifestation for inner peace and happiness allows us to unlock the tranquillity and joy already present within us. These cannot be found externally in material possessions.
Lord Krishna exhorts us to focus only on the karma and not on the outcome. We should strive to live better by following the tenets of the Gita.
“Keep performing your actions without desiring the results.”
Similarly, the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (1.4.6) states, “Aham Brahmasmi, Tat Tvam Asi”—I am Brahm, and you are the same. This concept of Advaita Vedanta, or non-duality teaches that when we are one with the Universe, the Universe works for us. Thus, the concept of Manifestation vs Law of Attraction reveals a profound difference: manifestation aligns us with the Universe as an integrated whole, while the Law of Attraction views the Universe as an external entity to extract benefits from.
How to practice manifestation? 📿
Manifestation begins with the conscious mind. Initially, conscious effort is needed to start the journey. With practice, we transcend the conscious mind, discovering our true self and becoming one with the Universe. At this stage, manifestation becomes effortless, as we are already manifesting ourself as part of the Universal whole.
With regard to manifestation techniques for beginners, a very effective way is “Meditation on Sound”. Every major religion, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, acknowledges the power of sound in connecting with the inner self. Even those who deny the existence of God cannot deny the existence of Sound.
Simply play a sacred sound or mantra from your faith, or any sound that resonates with you, and let it accompany your daily activities. Observe the changes in your life. Gradually, you will notice a subtle protection from stress that will appear to be disappearing, fear dissolving, and an unexplained sense of oneness with the Universe taking over. Material successes will come, but you will experience them with detachment. You may externally appear to be very excited (in case of success) or gloomy (in case of a setback) but your inner world remains unaffected and peaceful with peace and contentment.
A Practical Step from the Vedic System 📿
If you follow the Indian Vedic system, you can meditate on prescribed mantras and chants. To experiment with this, you can visit your YouTube Channel where I have recorded hundreds of rare Vedic chants.
Here’s how to begin:
Select any mantra from the channel.
Play it and focus on your breath or the sound of my voice.
Meditate on this vedic chanting for just three minutes to start.
After the meditation, continue with your daily routine while the sound plays in the background. Keep returning to the Voice intermittently.
Over time, the sound will cleanse you from within. Subtle but profound changes will manifest in your thoughts and behavior. You will become more observant and conscious of your surroundings and inner self. Gradually, your false sense of identity will fade, leaving you with peace and satisfaction. Your body-mind system will seamlessly handle the material aspects of life, while you remain an observer—a drishta. A lot of authoritative material exist on the therapeutic effect of music on us. Science also appears to be convinced with the efficacy of mantra meditation as more research is called for in this field.
Advanced Stages of Manifestation 📿
As you continue practicing manifestation, the process becomes increasingly effortless and self-sustaining. At advanced stages, the tools and techniques—such as meditation, mantras, or sound—may no longer be necessary. You will naturally embody the principles of manifestation in your daily life.
This progression leads to a state of Sad-Chid-Ananda—truth, consciousness, and bliss. In this state, fears, anxieties, and stress dissolve completely. What remains is inner peace, contentment, happiness, and love.
Reaching this stage requires earnestness, consistency, and patience. There is no fixed timeline, as the journey is deeply personal. However, those who persist with sincerity are certain to achieve it.
Conclusion 📿
Manifestation is the art of self-discovery and spiritual alignment, while the Law of Attraction focuses on material gains. Although both can result in tangible outcomes, the process and mindset differ significantly. Manifestation fosters inner peace and contentment, making it the ideal approach for those seeking enduring fulfilment.
By practicing manifestation, we unlock our infinite potential and co-create with the Universe, achieving material success without stress while embracing a deeply satisfying life journey.
Have questions or experiences with manifestation or law of attraction? Share them in the comments below! 😊