An interesting Eastern idea is Maya which in the books I read was translated as illusion, but it is more than that it is a personified God: someone in charge of the illusion; and perhaps the illusion itself.
Hinduism is a sophisticated religion: we live under a wishing tree and desires are met; we are serviced. Maya provides the framework for servicing.
But there is another aspect to Hindu thinking: the Law of Karma, which is not a deity. Karma is not personified: it mechanically keeps us chained to the wheel and dispenses rewards and punishments. The wheel is life itself and the prospect of continuous rebirth, which is seen as a bad thing. As we move forward Willy-nilly being alternatively bashed and pleasured by this uncompromising arrangement.
In a sense rewards and punishments are both earned.
This arrangement is unpalatable for any of the more genteel and advanced spirits fortunate enough to come across an enlightened Master or Teacher willing to guide them to their salvation away from all this. They also have to be willing to do the work that the path entails.
The goal and purpose of Hindu based mysticism is to free us from the afore mentioned wheel. And get us outside the purview of Maya. Although I'm not at all clear where that would be. Or if I would really want to go there?
