The words or terms that Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba uses in telugu (His mother tongue) referring to ‘Human Values’ are mānavata viluvalu or mānava guṇamulu or mānavatvaṁ. In this post we explore a few excerpts from various discourses delivered by Bhagavan Baba, to portray a wide canvas of what He meant by Human Values.
“Embodiments of Love! What is the difference between birds and animals and humans? Can eating, drinking, sleeping and ultimately dying, be the be-all and end-all of human life? All these are common to animals and human beings. What, then, is the difference? Although one is endowed with intelligence, discrimination and wisdom, without endeavouring to know the truth, a human regards physical phenomena as the only reality, the Divine as remote, and forgets the main goal of life.” (1)
Jantūnāṁ Narajanma Durlabham (Vivekachūḍāmaṇi)
Among all beings, rarest to obtain is the Human birth
“Born as human beings, growing as human beings, human beings have forgotten the value of human existence. Developing religious differences, fostering demonic tendencies, they are destroying peace. What is the state of human life today? The foremost thing that should exist is respect for human values. However great an intellectual or scholarly or learned one may be, one has also to acquire humanness. Without humanness, scholarships and intellectual eminence are of no value. It is only when men cultivate humanness that society will shine with radiance and the nation and the world will progress.” (2)
“If money is lost, by struggle and strain you can get back the lost money. If the health is lost, by consulting physicians you can get back your fitness. But once character and values are lost, human life is a waste. Human values are most important today. Human values are not found in any texts nor are they imported or exported. In fact, human values have their origin in humans. When you follow the path of truth and undertake truthful activities, you will have the human values with you. More than the education you acquire, or the activities you undertake, if you uphold the human values, all the rest will follow automatically.” (3)
“Humanness can be promoted only through spirituality and not by any other means. Just as a seed can sprout only when it is planted in the soil and watered, human values can grow only in a spiritual soil. If a person wants to cultivate human values he has to apply the manure of spirituality to his heart, water it with love so that human values will grow.” (2)
“Awareness of, “I am a human being,” is only half the truth. “I am not a beast,” is the other half. Always remind yourself of what you are, as well as what you are not; when this is done, when activities are in accordance with that awareness, a human will be manifesting the full significance of the name he is known by” (8)
“What is spirituality? That which destroys human’s animal nature, nurtures humanness, and finally transforms him into a Divine being is spirituality. (4) Spirituality aims at enabling a human being to manifest, in all its fullness, the divine Caitan’ya (cosmic consciousness) that is present within and outside. It means getting rid of the animal nature and developing the divine tendencies. It means breaking down the barriers between God and Nature and establishing their essential oneness. (5) Spirituality means the quest for oneness.” (6)
“The body, mind and Ātma together constitute the human entity. Actions are undertaken by the body and cognition by the mind. The Ātma is the Divine Spirit present in the heart. Action, Awareness and Being are the threefold aspects of human life which have to be properly understood. Although they appear to be distinct, it is the unity in Action, Awareness and Being which makes for the fullness of human life.
The Vedas have declared “Prajñānaṁ brahma”. Prajñā is the principle that is present equally in the body, the antaḥkaraṇa and the Ātma. Hence it may be regarded as “constant integrated awareness.” It is this constant integrated awareness that is the source of all values in a human being. This Prajñā is permeated with Prēma (Love). Satya (Truth) is the echo that resounds from the love-filled Prajñā. All actions that arise out of this love-filled Prajñā are reactions, constituting Dharma. Śāntī (Peace) is a reflection of this Satya (Truth) and Dharma. Thus Satya (truth), Dharma (Righteousness) and Śāntī (Peace) emanate from the Prajñā that is charged with Love, as resound, reaction and reflection. The proper understanding of the source and nature of Satya, Dharma, Śāntī and Prēma is Ahiṃsā (the attitude in which one cannot think of causing harm to anyone).” (7)
Sri Sathya Sai Baba summarised the above understanding in four simple yet profound statements as follows:
Love as thought is Truth.
Love as action is Right living.
Love as feeling is Peace.
Love as understanding is Non-violence.
The endeavour of Sri Sathya Sai Centre for Human Values is to strive for understanding the Human Values and how they can be practiced in daily life and living.
A one-day workshop was organized for the teachers of Government Primary school teachers on 3rd October, 2019 in Prasanthi Nilayam. The agenda was to expose the teachers to the basic tenets of Education in Human Values as enunciated by Bhagavan Baba.
About 40 teachers consisting of ladies and gents attended the same. The format was study circle based where a Divine Discourse of Bhagavan Baba was taken up for discussion. An overview of the Sri Sathya Sai Integral System of Education was presented. The program concluded with some value games for teachers.
On July 14th and 15th, 2019, on the auspicious occasion of Guru Poornima, a parenting workshop was organized by the SSSCHV at Prasanthi Nilayam. Participants totalling to 36 participated in the program. These included ladies and men from all over India. It was conducted by Dr. Pal Dhall and Dr. Tehsin Dhall, Advisory Committee members and world renowned specialists in this field.
The Program began with an experience sharing session where the stage was open to all the participants to come forward and share their knowledge as well as challenges in running Bal Vikas program and Parenting program for of Parenting. The second session was a study circle on Bhagavan’s core teachings on Parenting practices.
After lunch, the topic that was taken up for discussion was as follows, “Why do children need spirituality for core skills for success?” This was presented by Dr. Pal Dhall where he brought up the latest research findings linking spiritual progress and material success.
Dr. Pal Dhall facilitating the session on nurturing adolescent spirituality
“Nurturing Adolescent spirituality and Parent–Guru support” was the topic taken up in the evening. Dr. Pal Dhall showcased a lot of research from Neurology and connected it to the need and techniques of handling adolescents. The role of Parents and Guru was also taken up.
Next morning, the topic was “Key competencies for fostering spirituality in children.” The need for the Parent and Guru to become partners in the Bal Vikas program process was taken up. Under this the current status of such engagement was discussed and gaps were identified. Measures to overcome these gaps were also discussed.
In the concluding session, “Framing an Action Plan” was discussed and arrived at.
Dr. Gurumurthy, Director of SSSIHMS-PG giving the welcome address
On November 10th, 2018, a workshop titled ‘The Heart of Sai Healthcare Mission’ was conducted for the DNB (Diplomate of National Board) doctors of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences – Prasanthi gram (SSSIHMS-PG) and Sri Sathya Sai General Hospital (SSSGH) in SSSIHMS-PG conference hall.
The purpose of the workshop was to facilitate the orientation of the young doctors (DNBs) working in the SSSIHMS – PG and SSSGH, Prasanthi Nilayam, towards the healthcare vision and mission of our beloved Lord Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. About 50 doctors from the various departments attended the same.
In his welcome address, Dr. Gurumurthy, Director of the SSSIHMS – PG succinctly delved upon the purpose and philosophy of the Sai Health care mission. He gave an outline of the number of DNB doctors that are currently working in each of the departments.
This was followed by Sri Prasad Rao’s (IAS), Member Secretary, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust inaugural talk in which he highlighted the current state of medical care in the country and how the SSSIHMS was different from them all. Sri Prasad Rao’s talk was followed by the keynote address of Dr. V. Mohan, Trustee and world renowned diabetologist. He spoke over a video conferencing facility from his office in Chennai. His 30 minute talk covered the entire spectrum of the Sai Healthcare mission.
Dr V Mohan’s talk was followed by Prof. Vishwanath Pandit’s talk. He is the director of the SSSCHV and former Vice- Chancellor of the SSSIHL. His talk focussed on the need for values in day to day life. He explained in brief the purpose of the SSSCHV and its mandate.
Prof. Vishwanath Pandit, then Director of SSSCHV addressing the doctors at SSSIHMS – PG
Prof. Vishwanath Pandit’s speech was followed by the most awaited moment of the morning, video of an excerpt of Bhagavan Baba’s discourse from 1994. It was a discourse given on the occasion of the Cardiac Symposium but its message, as always, is relevant for eternity. The discourse covered a wide array of instructions, suggestions and guidelines to doctors. It brought out His philosophy beautifully.
After the morning tea session, Dr. Narasimhan, Director of the Sri Sathya Sai Mobile Hospital, gave a rousing speech for an hour. His talk expounded on the five pillars of the Sai Healthcare Mission namely: Comprehensive Healthcare – state of the art, quality healthcare; Universal Healthcare – welcoming to all irrespective of caste, creed and religion; Spiritual healthcare – treat all as kith and kin, De-commercialised Healthcare – free for all, Preventive Healthcare – not just treatment of disease but also prevent its recurrence.
In the afternoon session, a panel discussion was conducted for all the participants. The following was structure for the panel discussion.
A video entitled “Start with why — how great leaders inspire action” by Mr. Simon Sinek was used as a structure for the workshop. The concept basically puts for the following proposition.
It proposes that all organizations / individuals know ‘WHAT’ they do. In our organization (SSSIHMS and SSSGH), too, we know ‘WHAT’ is done or what is to be done. Fewer organizations know HOW they should do what they do. However, very few organizations know ‘WHY’ they do, what they do. Defining or knowing the ‘Why’ is not necessarily the outcome; such as ‘to treat patients’ or ‘to cure diseases’. Why stands for the ‘what is the purpose?’, ‘Why do I exist?’ etc.
Research shows that those organizations / people who know very clearly the ‘WHY’ of their existence are those who thrive successfully and last long. Everybody wants to be a part of organizations that know their ‘WHY’ clearly.
The endeavour, in the two panel discussions was to take up the ‘Why’ and ‘How’ of SSSIHMS. The concept of the golden circle was introduced to the participants. Three aspects of ‘WHY’ was taken up:
The panel consisted of Dr. Neelam Desai, HoD of CTVS department, SSSIHMS-PG, Dr. Kolli Challam, HoD of Anaesthesiology, SSSIHMS – Whitefield (WFD) and Sri N. Karthik, Senior Manager, Finance and Account, SSSIHMS – WFD. Each of the members are vastly experienced with the Sri Sathya Sai System having spent decades in divine proximity and personal guidance from Swami.
The second panel consisted of Dr. Sundaresh, Director, SSSIHMS – WFD, Dr. Lathashree, SSSGH – Prasanthi Nilayam and Sri Vaithialingam. This panel dealt with the ‘HOW’. Three aspects of ‘HOW’ were brought up namely:
The panellist shared their thoughts , insights and complemented them with their experiences and anecdotes.
The workshop ended with the impressions of some of the current DNB doctors on their WHY and HOW.
Bhagawan says that one among the three beliefs that Bharathiyaas hold fast is the concept of Avatars. The other two being the law of Karma and the doctrine of rebirth. Humanity recognises only the momentary results of the advent of Avatar but as Bhagawan says, the only and very purpose of Avatar is to teach mankind the truth about Love. One such Avatar who displayed the principle of Love in every act of His is Lord Krishna.
Fortunate are we to be the contemporaries of the Poorna Avatar Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. We are blessed to listen about other Avatars directly from Bhagawan Baba, which is like an auto-biography. In this posting, Bhagawan speaks about the birth of Krishna and the message of Krishna Avatar.
This posting is a collection of excerpts from the Divine Discourses of Bhagawan in the years 1989, 1990, 1991, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2003.
In the 1st audio clip, Bhagawan explains the reason and the essential factors why God incarnates. He goes on to explain in clip 1B, the beauty of Krishna Thatwa/Krishna principle. He then goes on to explain in clip 2A, the master plan of the Lord regarding taking up an Avatar as Krishna. In clip 2B, Bhagawan reveals the birthday of Krishna according to the English calendar. In clip 2C, He talks of the misunderstanding that prevails among people about timing of Krishna’s birth. He then goes on to explain in clip 2D, the true birthplace and the true birthday of Krishna. Bhagawan elaborates in clip 3A, the events immediately after Krishna’s birth. In clip 3B, Bhagawan talks about the naming ceremony of little Krishna. He explains in clip 4, different meanings and inner significance of the name ‘Krishna’. He talks of the supreme message of Krishna’s life in clip 5. In clips 6A, 6B, and 6C Bhagawan explains the three vows that Krishna took. Finally, in the 7th clip, Bhagawan explains the purpose of Avatars, and lessons that devotees must take home.
1A. Why Avatars Come-1995 May 21
Whenever cruelty, falsehood and unrighteousness reach intolerable proportions, God incarnates on Earth to destroy the wrongdoers. God Himself steps into the world. Why should God Himself come down? Could He not send His powers or deputies to complete this task? If there is a small case (disturbance), a police constable will come to the scene first. If it intensifies further it will be handled by a S.P (Superintendent of Police). If the case is even more demanding, the D.I.G (Deputy Inspector General of Police) will take it up. Beyond a limit, the I.G.P (Inspector General of Police) himself will look into the case. Therefore, based on the duties and task at hand, a suitable action needs to be undertaken. Today’s world is boiling with lots of agitation. Similarly, Kamsa’s reign was full of agitation. There was a sense of insecurity among all the citizens of the kingdom. They weren’t sure which Yadava would be ordered to be executed and beheaded. Nobody’s life was secure. They lived a life filled with fear and anxiety.
Under those circumstances, God decided to incarnate and destroy such wicked people. The advent of every Avatar has two reasons: one, the prayers of the devotees; and two, the atrocities of the wicked people. The unity of these two factors too is very essential.
Divinity summoned Maya Shakthi. Devaki Devi had conceived her seventh child. All the events were unfolding as per His master plan. Vasudeva had two wives. They were housed at Nanda’s place to be guarded against the atrocities of Kamsa. The Lord summoned Yoga Maya Shakti and instructed, “Devaki Devi had conceived her seventh child. Don’t keep this child in her womb any further. This child is an incarnation of Adishesha Himself. Now, transfer this child to the womb of Rohini”. Hence, Balarama (the child born to Rohini) is also called by the name Sankarshanudu. Sankarshana means “transferring from one place to another”. Thus, Maya Shakti transferred the seventh child from Devaki Devi’s womb to Rohini’s womb and assisted in the Divine master plan to annihilate the demons. The Lord further instructed Maya Shakti to enter into the womb of Yashoda (wife of Nanda). “I will Myself enter Devaki Devi’s womb as her eighth child.”
Krishna was born in the Krishnapaksha. What is Krishnapaksha? Krishnapaksha means darkness (the dark fortnight of the month). At night there will be no moonlight. It is full of darkness. In peacelessness (Ashanti) there is radiance (Prakaanti). In that radiance there is Supreme Light (Paramjyothi). This Supreme Light is verily the Divine (Paramatma). Light has its value in darkness alone, but not in brightness. Similarly, when the entire world was filled with restlessness (Ashanti), which is unrighteous, Krishna took birth as the Embodiment of supreme peace.
(Note – Lord Krishna was born in the month of Sravana. Bhagawan also brings out the significance of the word Sravanam (devout listening). In the discourse, Bhagawan goes on to talk about teaching the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna through the path of Sravanam.)
God Himself incarnated as the child. The Divine effulgence of the child illuminated the surroundings. Devaki and Vasudeva bowed to the child. What is the reason? They were aware that God would be born as their child. The Lord had appeared to them in a dream the previous night and, “I will take birth from your womb at dawn”. Indeed the Divine child incarnated. “But, what is the use ? How do we protect this child?”, thought the parents. They were worried about His safety. This was the impact of Maya, delusion! They knew He was Divine. How can they protect the Divine?
The Lord had already instructed Vasudeva to take the Divine child out soon after birth. Vasudeva placed the baby in a small basket and was wondering how he would go out. In a trice, the chains that tied his hands came loose. The doors flung open. It was three o’clock in the thick of the night. The gatekeepers were fast asleep. No one else was around. Vasudeva quietly walked out of the dungeon. As he proceeded, there was a tremendous downpour of rain. This was a sign of the intense joy; and purity of the occasion. Even the clouds were ecstatic at the Divine Advent. Placing the basket on his head, Vasudeva walked towards Gokulam. But, river Yamuna flowed across his path. When God Himself was going, who could obstruct Him? Adisesha covered the basket carrying the Divine child. The river parted and made way as they proceeded. At that very moment, Yashoda gave birth to Maya Shakti. Everyone was fast asleep at Gokulam also. Vasudeva switched the babies and returned. It was all done according to the Divine Command. But nobody believes this today. This was a Divine Plan.
In keeping with God’s command, Vasudeva placed the Lord next to Yashoda and returned to Mathura with the girl child. God’s ways are so mysterious! Only after Vasudeva returned and placed the baby girl next to Devaki Devi, did the guards wake up. The prison doors were found open and the guards were gripped with fear. The baby girl cried out loudly.
Sage Garga went to the house of Yashoda and Nanda for the naming ceremony of the babies. He exclaimed, “What I am seeing here today is strange. I have never heard of this in my life!” Incarnations generally occur in three colours of Shukla (white), Aruna (orange) and Pita (yellow). But here was a baby who was black. Hence, Garga considered the name Krishna (black) as most appropriate.
We must understand properly the meaning of the term Krishna. The word has three meanings.
One is “Krishyathi iti Krishnah” (The one who cultivates is Krishna). What is it that has to be cultivated? The Hridayakshetra (field of the heart). Krishna cultivates the field of our hearts. He removes the weeds of bad thoughts, softens the heart by watering it with love, ploughs it through sadhana, and sows the seeds of Lord’s name. Thus, Krishna is one who cultivates our hearts.
The second meaning of the word is: “Karshathi iti Krishnah.” (The one who attracts is Krishna). Karsha refers to attraction. Krishna attracts you by His eyes, His speech, His sports, His flute. Everything related to Krishna is attractive. By His words, He softens and calms the hearts of even those filled with anger and makes them rejoice.
Krishna displayed these qualities even as a small child. Once He had entered the house of a gopika at night, climbed a pillar to get to the curds that were kept in a pot suspended from the ceiling. The gopika came with a lot of anger, caught Him in the act and held and blocked the pillar, saying that she would now expose Him before His mother Yashoda. She asked Him what He was doing at the top of the pillar. Krishna, in the most innocent manner, answered that He was searching for the calf that was missing from His house. The gopika could not contain her laughter at the answer. She laughed loudly and let go of the pillar to cover her mouth. This gave Him the chance to slide down the pillar and make a good escape. This way, every aspect of Krishna is full of attraction. He is attraction itself.
What is the meaning of Sambhavam? One who expresses and manifests Himself according to His Will, unrestricted by rules, wherever and whenever necessary, is called as Sambhavaha.
The Bhagavad Gita says – Whenever righteousness declines, O Arjuna, and unrighteousness rises, I incarnate. To protect the pious and destroy the wicked, to establish dharma, I incarnate in every age.
The word Sambhavaami means: He incarnates whenever necessary, wherever necessary, not bound by any rules. Thus, man recognised the various qualities of God and attributed names describing each aspect.
Whoever it may be (Ye Janaah Pari Upaasate), if he thinks of Me (worships Me) all the time (Ananyaas Chintayanto Maam), I will take care of his/her day to day welfare (Teshaam Nityaabhi Yuktaanaam, Yogakshemam Vahaamyaham).
It must be Ananya Bhakti. If the devotion is limited to just oneself and one’s family, it becomes ordinary devotion. If one prays with the feeling that one should be fine and the society should also be fine, then it is somewhat better – medium level.
The one who understands the principle that all are one, all beings are one, he is the one with true infinite devotion (Ananya Bhakti). Ananya Bhakti does not mean Sarvada Sarvakaaleshu Sarvatra Harichintanam – that is praying to the Lord non-stop all the time. Ananya means not perceiving any differences; it means considering and seeing everybody as one. There is Divinity in everyone, everybody is essentially Divine.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna called upon Arjuna to renounce all Dharmas and seek refuge in Him alone – “Sarva Dharmaan Parityajya Maam Ekam Saranam Vraja.” What is meant by Dharma? In the present context, Dharma refers to the specific quality of each object. Heat, for instance, is the Dharma of fire in a burning charcoal. Without heat, it is mere charcoal. Sweetness is the Dharma (natural quality) of sugar. Without sweetness, it ceases to be sugar. It becomes sand. Likewise, there is a Dharma (natural tendency) for man. What is it? Desire for things. It is natural for man to multiply his desires. “Sarva Dharmaan Parithyajya” means giving up all desires. This is also called Vairagya (detachment).
Note: Following passage is extracted from a discourse given by Bhagawan on 6-9-1977
“Mokshayishyaami Maa Shucha”
(I shall save all those who surrender whole-heartedly to Me, and I shall liberate them from the cycle of birth and death). Thus Krishna assured man that He would save him from penury and grief and from sin and its terrible consequences, provided he adheres to Him and adores Him.As the name suggests, the Sri Sathya Sai Centre for Human Values has been founded with the aim to study and propagate Human Values as propounded by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.
Bhagawan Baba, considered by millions as the Avatar of the age, is the very fount of ‘Education in Human Values’. From His early writings it is amply clear that Bhagawan Baba’s emphasis has been on moral and spiritual uplift of the humankind in His own words:
Akhila mānavulaku ānanda munagūrci rakṣin̄Cucuṇḍuṭa dīkṣa nāku
Sanmārgamunu vīḍi, Cariyin̄Cu vārala peṭṭi kāpāḍuṭa vratamu nāku
Bīdasādalakainā penubādha tolagin̄Ci, lēmini bāpuṭa prēma nāku
Niyama niṣṭhala tōḍa nanugulcu vārini kāpāḍu Cuṇḍuṭa ghanata nāku
Man̄Ci Ceḍḍalu kūḍā manasulō samamugā bhāvin̄Cu Cuṇḍuṭa bhakti nāku
I have a ‘task’: to foster all humankind and ensure for all of them lives full of bliss (ananda).
I have a ‘vow’: to lead all who stray away from the straight path again into goodness and save them.
I am attached to a ‘work’ that I love: to remove the sufferings of the poor and grant them what they lack.
I have a ‘reason to be proud,’ for I rescue all who worship and adore me, aright.
I have my definition of the ‘devotion’: I expect those devoted to me have to treat joy and grief, gain and loss, with equal fortitude.
– Letter to His elder brother dated 25th May 1947 (Sathyam Shivam Sundaram Vol 1)
In the line “Sanmārgamunu vīḍi, Cariyin̄Cu vārala peṭṭi kāpāḍuṭa vratamu nāku” – He declares His vow to lead all those who have strayed away from the right path. In order to fulfil this right from His young days, through His own life and acts, He demonstrated the ways and means to tread the right path. Through His many writings and discourses also He propounded this philosophy.
One of His earliest writings was in the form of a poem which goes as follows:
“Satya Dharmamū Śānti Prēmalatō nī nitya jīvana yātra sāgin̄Cu jīva (jīva…)”
TRANSLATION:
Carry on the journey of life with Truth, Righteousness, Love and Peace… O Being
His mission has been to impress upon humankind the crucial importance of leading moral lives by the practice of universal human values: Sathya (Truth); Dharma (Righteousness); Shanti (Peace); Prema (Love); Ahimsa (Nonviolence). He says education should bring out human values. “To bring out” means to translate these values into action. Since then, He has remained a constant motivator and guide in the development of Education in Human Values.
Speaking at the Maharani’s Women’s College in Mysore in September 1963, Sri Sathya Sai Baba said:
“Education is not for mere living; it is for life, a fuller life, a more meaningful, and a more worthwhile life. There is no harm if it is also for a gainful employment; but the educated must be aware that existence is not all, that gainful employment is not all. Again education is not for developing the faculty of argument, criticism, or winning a polemic victory over your opponents or exhibiting your mastery over language or logic. That study is best, which teaches you to conquer this cycle of birth and death and that will not be disturbed by the blessings or blows of fate. That study begins where this study of yours ends.”
The year was 1969 when, inspired by the teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba and under His guidance, a programme was established in India to teach children about the country’s ancient scriptures through storytelling, enacting plays with morality themes, and through singing of devotional songs. The responsibility for implementing the programme, which was named as “Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vihar”, was assigned to the Ladies Wing of the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation. A national conference was organised in 1971 for volunteers who had been trained as teachers and administrators of the programme. At the conference, the name “Bal Vikas” was chosen in order to better clarify the objectives of the programme. Bal Vikas is a Sanskrit term which means “blossoming of the child”. Accordingly, rules, regulations, and a course syllabus were developed in order to enhance the blossoming of “truth, beauty, and goodness in the child”.
By 1975 the number of trained Bal Vikas teachers in India had grown to 3,500, and the number of students to over 50,000. The programme was soon to be introduced to countries outside of India. In the very early 1970s a Bal Vikas programme was begun in the United Kingdom. In 1977, Sri Sathya Sai devotees in the United States of America started a Bal Vikas Programme, modelled along the lines of the one in India, and published an international Bal Vikas Newsletter, The Om Publication.
In 1980, Sri Sathya Sai Baba introduced His ‘Ceiling on Desires Programme’ at the Third World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations held at Prasanthi Nilayam (Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh). He said children must be taught not to waste food, water, time, energy, or money. Sri Sathya Sai Baba explained that wastage is a form of violence against nature. Further, the only remedy to curb violence in the world is for individuals to minimise their desires. This implied that the Ceiling on Desires Programme should be adopted not only by children, but adults as well.
The Bal Vikas Programme began to spread rapidly to other countries around the world, and in 1981, a conference for overseas teachers was held at Prasanthi Nilayam. It was here, during this conference, the concept of education in human values was introduced and Sri Sathya Sai Baba called for the development of objective assessment techniques. Subsequently, added emphasis was placed on the further development of Bal Vikas teacher training and curriculum. In 1983 the 15th Anniversary of Bal Vikas Celebration was held in Prasanthi Nilayam. This was attended by well over 20,000 children and teachers. In 1995 at the Sixth World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations, in order to emphasize the universality of the Bal Vikas Programme, it was decided to change the name to Sai Spiritual Education (SSE) in countries outside of India.
Bal Vikas or Sai Spiritual Education (SSE) classes are designed for children aged 6 to 14 years. These classes are conducted at local Sai Centres by devotees who have been trained by the Sri Sathya Sai Organisation. The core content relates to the five universal human values of Truth, Right Action, Peace, Love, and Nonviolence. Sri Sathya Sai Baba has long held that these human values are valid and necessary for the education and schooling of all the children of the world.
In the early 1980s, a modification of the Bal Vikas programme was developed and given the name Sri Sathya Sai Education in Human Values (SSSEHV) which is a secular programme (in the sense that it is equally respectful of all faiths and religions), which promotes character development, and seeks to instill in the students a respect and reverence for nature and for the rights of others. The SSSEHV teacher is expected to earnestly practice the human values in her or his own life. The teacher, as an exemplar, encourages students to grow in self-confidence and strive to realise their full potential as human beings.
In June 1966, Sri Sathya Sai Baba was at Anantapur, a town in Andhra Pradesh, about 80 kilometres from Prasanthi Nilayam, at the invitation of a high school for girls. The plight of the girls who had to travel over large distance for higher education, and also the plight of education for which they were spending much time and money, became the harbinger for the unfolding of His Divine resolve.
He announced that there would be a women’s college in Anantapur soon. The first educational institution to be established under the direct guidance of Sri Sathya Sai Baba was the Sri Sathya Sai Arts and Science College for Women, inaugurated by the then President of India, Sri V. V. Giri, on 8 July 1971. The purpose of establishing this institution was expressed by Sri Sathya Sai Baba in His inaugural speech (1968) in the following words:
“This is a divine and blessed land whose tradition is based on spirituality. This college has to be an example. Motherhood aspect is very important. The influence of good or bad, which a mother exerts on her children is far-reaching. Good mothers are needed to rebuild India again.”
Sri Sathya Sai Arts and Science College for men at Brindavan, Whitefield, Bangalore, was inaugurated on June 9, 1969. Some years later on November 28, 1978 Sri Sathya Sai Baba laid the foundation stone of the College of Arts, Science and Commerce at Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba founded the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL) as a deemed to be University, on November 22, 1981 and has been guiding its course as the Chancellor from its very inception.
The Peer Team of the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), UGC, in 2003 noted in their report that this University stands out as a crest-jewel among the University education system worthy of emulation by the institutions of higher learning in the country and elsewhere, so that these benefits would be reaped fast and on the widest possible scale.
SSSIHL is a visible manifestation of Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s vision of education for the transformation of humanity. The Institute today has four campuses offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses with research facilities for doctoral candidates at Anantapur, Brindavan, Muddenahalli (Karnataka) and Prasanthi Nilayam.
The SSSIHL a non-profit, autonomous institution. The admission policy is open, based on an entry examination and admission is granted purely on merit. No consideration is given to caste, creed, income, region, religion, or language. Students come from different states in India, and a few from other countries, creating a national and international character for the University.
Right from its inception, the SSSIHL has integrated ethics and values as the undercurrent of every subject taught at the university. Combined with academic excellence, the university provides a holistic framework of inter-personal development for its students. Its compulsory residential character trains the mind, body and spirit of the student in an environment similar to the ancient Indian ‘gurukula’ system of education, in the most modern context.
On 15th June, 1981, Sri Sathya Sai Baba, initiated a primary and higher secondary school in Prasanthi Nilayam christened as Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School (SSSHSS). The school has been guided directly by Bhagawan Baba and His philosophy of education. This school is a fully residential English Medium school for boys and girls affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi. It consists of classes from I to XII and forms a vital educational limb of the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning.
The school has been often adjudged the only school in the entire country to have achieved academic, cultural & infrastructure excellence at national level with free of cost education, with focus on integral development, with rural based location and with students of diversified culture and languages.
By the early 1970s, several devotees and followers of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, began establishing Sri Sathya Sai Primary and Secondary Schools in their local areas with the idea of offering this unique model of education. Most of these schools where run in collaboration with the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations (a voluntary service based spiritual organization).
By the early 1990s Sathya Sai Schools were established in Zambia, Thailand, and Nepal. Similar schools were soon started in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Ecuador, Fiji, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Paraguay, the Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka,Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and Venezuela. Currently, there are over 60 Sathya Sai Schools in India and 41 Sathya Sai Schools in 26 countries outside India.
The Sri Sathya Sai Organisation is careful to ensure that these schools operate within the jurisdiction and educational norms of the country where they are located. The local educational authority must be satisfied that the school meets all appropriate requirements, including approving the aims and objectives, the site and structural adequacy of the buildings, syllabus, teacher preparation, proper classroom size, physical resources, staff salaries, and the capacity to meet maintenance and sustainability needs.
The main purpose for establishing Sathya Sai Schools is to provide quality education permeated with human values to children who would otherwise not receive it. To this end, the schools are often located in disadvantaged areas. Funding comes primarily from donations and, in a few cases, from government grants when such grants are consistent with national educational policies and those of the Sri Sathya Sai Organisation. The Schools strive to provide free education. In some cases a small fee is charged for consumables.
In the Code of Conduct enunciated for the members of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organization – National and International, ‘Regular Study of Sai Literature’ has been put down as an expectation to be followed by every member as part of Sadhana (spiritual discipline) at a personal, family and societal level. Sri Sathya Sai Baba commenced the Study Circle as a means to grasp His message so that as many as possible understand it and practice it in their day to day life. This activity has been going on for over 50 years.
Bhagawan Baba’s teachings are a treasure trove which needs to be elaborated to understand how a person can tune their life to reach the goal. This needs proper understanding through discussions and clarification with appropriate elaboration to digest and absorb. Only correct and proper assimilation of His teachings can result in adhering and following the right path to reach the Divine.
Baba says that the spiritual growth of a person is best achieved through an integrated practice of devotion, study, and service. The purpose of a study circle is made explicitly clear by Baba as follows: “It is not just reading books make a Study Circle. Study circle means taking a point and each person discussing what is the meaning of the point to them—like a round table conference. Each person gives his point of view, and finally values are derived from this. If there is just reading, there is doubt, but if each one gives his view, doubts will be answered. The topic is viewed; the study circle looks at the same point in different facets. It is like a diamond with its different facets, but there is one facet that is flat, the top facet, and from this all can be viewed. To discover the top facet is the task [purpose] of study circle”.
Baba further tells us, “Not information, but transformation, not instruction but construction should be the aim. Theoretical knowledge is a burden, unless it is practiced, when it can be lightened into wisdom and assimilated into daily life. Knowledge that does not give harmony and wholeness to the process of living is not worth acquiring. Every activity must be rendered valid and worthwhile by its contribution to the discovery of Truth, both of the Self and of nature.”
The study circle carries many benefits to participants. The primary benefit is the acquisition of Self-knowledge. Swami says, “In the study circle you can learn a lot of things, but the most important thing to be learnt is your own true nature – your Atma-Tatva. Learning all about external things without knowing your real Self is like studying the branches of a tree, ignoring its roots.”
Swami also cautions us with the following statement not to turn the study circle into a reading group, study with faith and devotion. Delve into the significance and the meaning of what you read, and always have before you the goal of putting into practice what you read. Unless you do so, the study circle will remain a half-circle forever; it cannot be a full circle.”
All of the above developments and practice culminated in a report that was submitted to Bhagawan Baba in the year 2004 which stated “that a Sri Sathya Sai Centre for Universal Values be set-up in Prasanthi Nilayam which would serve as an apex body for all Educare / Education in Human Values- related matters not only with regard to interpretation and clarification of basic concepts but also in terms of offering practical guidelines for all who are concerned with various types of Educare related activities.”
Based on this recommendation, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust inaugurated the Sri Sathya Sai Centre for Human Values (SSSCHV) on 15th November, 2017. The focus of the SSSCHV is to take up a more concerted and deeper study of the extant Sai Literature available in terms of research and its applications through training programs.
Burrows, L., (1988), Sathya Sai Education in Human Values, Sri Sathya Sai Books and Publications Trust, Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Erikson, E.H., (1969), Gandhi’s Truth: On the Origin of Militant Nonviolence, W.W. Norton, New York, USA.
Freire, P., (2004), Pedagogy of the Heart, The Continuum International Publishing Group, Inc., New York, USA.
Gokak, V.K. and Rohidekar, S.R., (circa 1981), Teachers’ Handbook for the Course in Human Values, Sri Sathya Sai Books and Publications Trust, Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Hauser, M.D., (2006),Harper Collins, New York, USA.
Institute of Sathya Sai Education, (2002), Towards Human Excellence: Sri Sathya Sai Education for School, Book 1, An Insight into Sathya Sai Education, Institute of Sathya Sai Education, Mumbai, India.
Institute of Sathya Sai Education, (2002), Towards Human Excellence: Sri Sathya Sai Education for School, Book 2, The Five Human Values, Institute of Sathya Sai Education, Mumbai, India.
Institute of Sathya Sai Education, (2002), Towards Human Excellence: Sri Sathya Sai Education for School, Book 3, The Five Teaching Techniques, Institute of Sathya Sai Education, Mumbai, India.
Jaroensettasin, T., (1997), Sathya Sai Education: Philosophy and Practice. Institute of Sathya Sai Education, Bangkok, Thailand.
Jumsai, A., (2003), A Development of the Human Values Integrated Instructional Model Based on Intuitive Learning Concept, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok,Thailand.
Kapani, M., (2000), Education in Human Values, Sterling Publishers, New Delhi, India.
Montessori, M., (1971), The Child, The Theosophical Society Publishing House, Chennai, India.
Reddy, A. Adivi, (2000), Necklace of Nine Sai Gems (Sai Nava Ratna Maala), Sathya Sai Book Center of America, Tustin, USA.
Sathya Sai Book Center of America, (2002), Sathya Sai Speaks on Education, Sathya Sai Book Center of America, Tustin, USA.
Shah, I, The Divine on Education, A Compilation of the Discourses (1992-1994) by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, from private collection.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba, (1984), Vidya Vahini, Sri Sathya Sai Books and Publications Trust, Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Sri Sathya Sai Books and Publications Trust, (circa 1981), Education in Human Values Handbook Part II, Sri Sathya Sai Books and Publications Trust, Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Sri Sathya Sai Books and Publication Trust, Education in Human Values Handbook Part II, Sri Sathya Sai Books and Publications Trust, Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
https://thetruesai.weebly.com/attend-study-circles.html
http://www.sathyasai.org/organisation/guidelines/study-circle
https://www.sathyasai.org/education/globaloverview/Chapter1_30Jun07.htm
The audio clip of the message has a name that adopts the following code: Title relating to the message, Duration of the clip, Year-Month-Date of the Clip. Below the title is the English translation of the message. Below the English translation is the audio player.
03 August to 09 August 2015
20 July to 26 July 2015
I have told you this number of times. If you wish to have a vision of your heart (figuratively, the chest literally), what should you do? If I look at myself I will only be able to see my clothes, but not my heart. Only when the garments covering the chest are removed, we can see our heart. However, today unable to bear the chill of the world, man is covering himself with three thick clothes. On the top is a thick coat. Inside the coat is a shirt and inside the shirt is a thin vest. Being covered by these three pieces of garments, we are unable to see our heart.
Embodiments of Love, if we wish to see God and converse with Him, we need not undertake any special Sadhana (spiritual practice). All activities we undertake that help us to cleanse the dirt in us (and purify our mind) may themselves be considered as Sadhana. But such Sadhana only cleanses the dirt (malinya) in our minds but does not create God (Madhava) or manifest Him. God is not someone or something that can be created by you. It is self-resplendent, self-illuminating, and always remains in its true Form. All that we need to do is remove the obstacles (that prevent us from seeing God).
Therefore, we need to recognize the fundamental principle. It is the same stone that we tread upon (tokkedi), it is the same stone that we worship (mokkedi), it is the same stone that is used for building (kattedi) and the same stone that is used for hitting (kottedi). The fundamental rock or stone remains the same. In the same manner, every object or material is the form of Sat (Being) Chit (Awareness) Ananda (Bliss), i.e. Asti Bhaati Priyam. Sat Chit and Ananda are verily the form of God. To this we add an imaginary name and form. These transform into the quintuple Prapancha (creation) consisting of Sat, Chit, Ananda, Name and Form. When you remove the name and form it becomes Divinity (creator). With name and form it becomes Prapancha(creation). Thus we need to change our Drushti(vision) and not the Srushti(creation). We need to change our vision with respect to the name and form.
06 July to 12 July 2015
Only when we are able to cleanse the dirt in our mind, we will be able to develop the right vision. That is why in the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna does not ask Arjuna to surrender to Him (Lord Krishna). He asks Arjuna to surrender to himself. Now, who is this “himself”? Who are you? We need to find out this Truth. We chant the sloka: Tvameva Maatacha Pita Tvameva…You are my Mother, You are my Father, You are my Guru, You are my friend.
Today is Gurupurnima. Purnima (full moon day) stands for the fullness of the moon with respect to its 16 aspects. Mind is the reflection of the moon and the moon is the reflection of the mind. If we also aspire to achieve our full glory, we need to sacrifice and give up 16 aspects. What are these 16 aspects? These 16 aspects comprise the following:
There are three types of Maya (delusion). They are Swechcha, Parechcha and Ayichcha. Swechcha is to be prepared to act in accordance with one’s own will and then be ready to bear the consequences of joy or sorrow thereafter. Parechcha is when one enters into action based on the inspiration and enthusiasm provided by others and is then prepared to silently bear the consequences of joy or sorrow thereafter. Ayichcha means to transform one’s will so as to align to Divine Will. If something joyful happens, that is God’s Will. If sorrow befalls on you that is also God’s Will. If difficulties come your way that is also God’s Will. If you get profit, then that is also God’s Will. The true Ichha(wish or desire) is to consider both happiness and sorrow as God’s wish (Will).
Matter + Being = God. We must make an effort to understand this Divine principle. However, there are many obstacles that come in the way of our understanding this supreme principle. There are primarily four obstacles that come in the way. One is Avidya Pratibandhakam. Second is Prajna Pratibandhakam. Third is Kutharka Pratibandhakam. Fourth is ViparyayaDuraagraha Pratibandhakam.
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| Two powerful analogies to illustrate our reality |
18 May to 24 May 2015
Many parents (of our students) are also devotees. They too perform Upavaasaor fasting. They do Bhajans. But, what type of Upavaasa or fasting do you need to do? Upavaasa means your mind should always be close to God.
04 May to 10 May 2015
Bhagawan mentioned three words: Nijam (fact), Sathyam(truth) and Ritam (absolute reality). What is Nijam (fact)? Fact is to state what one sees at a given point of time; for instance, stating what dress has been worn by an individual at a given point of time is a fact. Let us say you have come here wearing a white dress. I have seen you wearing a white dress. This is a fact. But let us say that as soon as you return home you change your dress and put on a blue bush coat. Then what Bhagawan has said earlier would not be a fact now. Speaking what you are seeing at a given point of time is Nijam (fact). When it changes later, it is no more a fact. Therefore, narrating whatever you see or experience at a given point of time is a fact at that instant.
We must first of all destroy our bad qualities. There is no use undertaking meditation or other such practices for this. Many undertake meditation, but do you know what type of meditation it is? It is decorative and ostentatious. They meditate for taking pictures. All actions done by the (physical) body are unreal and not real. Whatever you do with the mind and with love becomes real. Therefore,
13 April to 19 April 2015
06 April to 12 April 2015
At Sathya Sai Institute, not even one naya paisa is being collected from you. Teaching is free, Library is free, Laboratory is free, Education is free, Games is free, Medicines are free. Everything is free. For having made you experience such an environment, for having taught you so many lessons, for having preached you so much wisdom, and for having done so much; what gratitude do you have in you? You do not need to give Swami anything. If you exhibit (manifest) the good qualities that you have learnt here, that is enough.
At times, your mother will go to the market. You too go with her. Carry the items purchased by your mother. How happy your mother will be! She will feel, “Oh, how much my son is serving me”. This is the happiness you must give to your mother who has nurtured you for nine months in her womb. Even while seeing your mother carrying all the items, if you sit on a chair and ask, “Oh, mother, when did you come?” she will think, “Oh, what a worse child has been born from my womb”. Therefore never give pain to your mother. Help your mother. Serve your mother.
23 March to 29 March 2015
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| There is no atonement for the sin of ingratitude |
16 March to 22 March 2015
The king enjoys the pleasures in the privacy of the inner rooms of his palace. The dog enjoys the same pleasure in the market. Is this true happiness? Saint Tyagaraja put forth a very fundamental question to his mind, “O mind, tell me truly, what gives real happiness; this wealth or the proximity to the Lord?” Happiness does not lie in merely getting academic degrees. Earning lot of wealth does not give happiness. Getting into positions of authority does not give us happiness. We need to earn the Grace of Iswara, the Lord. That gives true happiness.
Never forget God. Do not trust the world. Do not fear death. You need to understand these three things.
02 March to 08 March 2015
The atomic power is present everywhere. Scientists refer to this entity as the atom, as a minute particle. However, the atom too can be split further into smaller particles that have a form. There is nothing in this world, which does not have a form. Everything assumes some form. Now take for example the state of Karnataka. What form does this state of Karnataka have? If you look at the map, you will find a form or a shape for the state of Karnataka too. Similarly, what form does Andhra have? Andhra too has a form on the map. What is it that does not have a form? If we cross the border of a state, one is considered to have transgressed the boundaries of the state. How exactly can we define the boundary of a state? If we think in this manner, we will realize that every material in this world has got a form.
23 February to 01 March 2015
Some people in this Kali Yuga, approached Ramakrishna Pramahamsa. They asked him, “Swami, have you seen God?” He replied, “Yes, I have seen”. They asked, “In what way have you seen God? In what form have you seen God?” Ramakrishna replied, “I have seen God just the way I see you and you see me”. They queried, “How is this possible?” He replied, “Yes, it is possible. The kind of worship and yearning that one needs to see God is not there in you. O People, you crave for property, wealth, conveniences and comforts. You work so hard for your wife and children (family). You shed tears for the smallest to the biggest issues. You cry day and night for earning money. But, have you ever cried like this for God?
16 February to 22 February 2015
Today with respect to God, the atheists, the Cārvākas (one of the heterodox schools of Hinduism, that rejects supernaturalism, emphasizes materialism and philosophical scepticism; holding empiricism, perception and conditional inference as the proper source of knowledge) and the scientists, based on their deliberations, came up with the idea of direct proof or empirical evidence. It must be possible to see with the eyes, touch with the hands and taste with the tongue. Only then one could believe in the existence of something. How can one believe in a power that cannot be seen, cannot be grasped by the hand and cannot be tasted? Scientists consider people who still hold such beliefs as foolish people. Truly speaking, in this matter, if the scientist claims that direct proof or empirical evidence is the only way to believe in the existence of something, then there is no greater fool than him. How can we say this?
Similarly, for this creation that can be seen, there is an invisible Divine energy that is the basis. Basing on that Truth (energy) only, we are able to perceive the world. A few more examples: We have fragrance. We have love. Love has no form. Fragrance too has no form. But we do experience them. Can we say they do not exist? These cannot be seen by the eyes, cannot be grasped by the hand and cannot be tasted by the tongue. How then do we have belief in them? This means, for that which is not seen, there is something which is seen and forms the basis. Love has no form but the mother who loves has a form. Fragrance has no form but the flower that gives the fragrance has a form. In the same way bliss has no form but God who bestows bliss has a form. What is that form? This form is incomprehensible, hidden and can take any shape.
Here is one more example: What is the form (shape) of air? What is the form (shape) of water? We see the water and also the air. We experience them. But they do not have any form. When will air get a form? When it is filled in a football or a balloon it assumes the form (shape) of a football or a balloon. Water too assumes the form (shape) of the vessel in which it is filled. In the same way, God who cannot be seen assumes a form based upon the feelings of the devotee. The feelings of the devotee give a form to God. This is called Bhavaroopa(form based on feelings). Dhyana(meditation) is required to understand this form based on feelings. Whatever feelings the devotee entertains, God assumes a form accordingly. If we entertain bad feelings the form will be bad and if we entertain good feelings the form will be good. Therefore, all forms of God are based upon the feelings. It is impossible to state that God is like this or like that. That is why it is said:
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| Life is a game, play it… |
Many children play football. How long does the football get kicked around? Members from both the teams keep kicking the ball. The ball cannot escape the kicks of the players. How long can it not escape? So long as there is air in the ball, it will receive kicks from players of both the teams. Once the air is lost (ball is deflated), the ball is taken into the hands.
We must continuously engage ourselves in sacred actions. In the world many consider meritorious acts as providing conveniences to others or helping others or engaging in charity and righteous acts. But Sage Vyasa did not consider these as meritorious acts. He stated, “Paropakaaraaya Punyaaya”, and people assumed the meaning to be “service to others is merit”.
26 January to 01 February 2015
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| Each Avatar played the role appropriate to that time |
Among the principle of the Avatars, the easiest path, the sweetest path, the most wonderful experiences are found mainly in the Krishna Avatar alone. But that does not mean that the other Avatars were any less. Every Avatar’s life is appropriate to that time. Here is a small example: Some two people started a fight in the bazaar (market). Seeing the brawl, a policeman arrived at the scene. But the fight became serious. So, the Superintendent of Police (SP) arrived there. However, the fight became all the more serious and it came to a point where each one was trying to kill the other. To handle the situation, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) came over there. To start with the policeman comes there, subsequently the SP comes there and thereafter the IGP comes to the scene; why all this? As the lack of peace increases in its proportion a person with a higher designation needs to come over there.
19 January to 25 January 2015
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| True peace is within… |
To think that one can attain God through Dhyaanam (meditation), Japam (chanting the Divine name) or Tapam (penance) is merely an illusion. All these may give only temporary peace for that moment. To get eternal peace or eternal joy, we need to develop Divine feelings within us. But for this you need an appropriate environment too. Only in a Divine environment and sacred surroundings you can get such feelings. Elsewhere, you cannot get such opportunities. That is why in ancient times, sages went to the forest, sat in an isolated silent place and developed a Divine environment around them. This is because they thought that in the village (or town or city) their vision and their hearing would become unsacred. It is this weakness that led them to go to the forest.
12 January to 18 January 2015
Science, science, science – this is modern education. The study of science is essential, but how should it be? Today, science is taking us in the wrong direction. It starts from a point and stops at a point (Swami draws the outline of a “C” in the air). This “C” stands for science. Like the letter “C”, science starts at one point but ends at another point. It is not a full circle. But spiritual education is like a full circle. It ends at the point where it starts.
Many of you know this story. In the Ramayana, Kaikeyi was a great queen. She was the daughter of the King of Kashmir. She had great titles and was an expert in all forms of knowledge. She was indeed the queen. A maid servant came to assist her. Her name was Mandhara. She was a servant. But Kaikeyi made Mandhara her master. Finally, the queen became the servant of Mandhara. What happened at the end? Because Kaikeyi became a servant to her own servant, her life was ruined. She lost her position. She became the victim of the anger of her son. She sent the sacred Rama to the forest. She made the noble Sita cry. This was her pathetic plight at the end. She too got ruined along with the others. Therefore, a servant should be kept only as a servant and a master should be kept only as a master.
05 January to 11 January 2015
I keep telling many of My students, the spelling of watch is W A T C H. First of all students must be taught about this W A T C H.
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| Grace of the Lord is the greatest wealth… |
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| Man’s existence is bound by actions… |
Human beings are born in action. They grow and finally die in action. Action is verily Divine. Actions are responsible for pleasure and pain. Action expresses itself in three different ways. The thinking process is one form of action. Expressing one’s thoughts in words is another form of action. Translating the expression of words into action is the third form of action. Thoughts represent the mind, words the mouth and action the hand. Therefore, human life is a combination of the principle of the body (action), the mouth (word) and the mind (thought). These three are responsible for all the joys and sorrows of human beings. Humans have no existence without these three (thought, word and deed).
15 December to 21 December 2014
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| Castes are meant only for operational convenience |
Every being born in this world has a mix of Tamo (sloth, dull, inactive), Rajo (action, restlessness, passion) and Satva (pious, pure, balance) Gunas (attributes). All their actions are based on their Gunas. It is on this basis that the Gunakarma Vibhagais done (original sloka from the Bhagavad Gita given at the end of the discourse excerpt), i.e. beings are categorized based on the Gunas and activities. When man is born, he is ignorant. When he dies, he dies (or rather should die) as a Jnaani (a wise one). Similarly, when a man is born, he is always born as a Shudra, meaning he is ignorant. But being born as a Shudra, he must die as a Brahmin. It is on this basis that the four Varnas came into existence. Based on these three qualities, three categories of people have been identified. The first category of people consists of those who are foolish. The second category of people consists of those who get angry and agitated. The third category of people consists of those who are totally selfless, having given up everything and full of purity.
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| Transcend the Three Gunas |
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| Rajasic Sadhana is not desirable… |
The one who has love, the one who aspires for Divine Love, he / she is My real friend. But today’s friends act in a contradictory manner. When there is money in the pocket and when father is in a good position, hundreds of friends come to you saying “Hello, Hello, Hello”. But when there is no money in the pocket and when father has lost his position, they would not even tell you goodbye! Is this friendship?
Birthday Special
This morning when I came downstairs, all My boys told Me, “Happy Birthday!” I told them, “I am always happy. You people who are not happy, must experience happiness”. Therefore when every human believes in his Divine principle, acts according to it and experiences it, he will always remain happy. Divinity does not reside in some separate region or land. Divinity is not any specific form. We must recognize the fact that that we are verily the Divinity that is omnipresent, resident in all beings, the Atma in all beings, all powerful and omnipotent.
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| Love is God. Live in Love. |
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| It is easiest to reach God in Kali Yuga |
Today, we need to develop compassion. That is the principle of Love gifted to mankind by Jesus. Love, Love, Love… Love is God. Live in Love. Therefore,
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| Give Love…Take Love |
(Swami in an address to devotees assembled from all parts of the world in Sai Kulwant Hall on Christmas day) So many of you have assembled here. Where have you all come from? Germany, Japan, Italy, France…you have come from so many countries. But, however happy you may be – staying here, once the money you have with you gets exhausted, you will have to return (to your nation). If your Visa expires, you will have to return to your country. You will not be able to stay close to Me.
27 October to 02 November 2014
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| We must have attachment only for God and not for the physical body |
When we make an attempt to understand the true meaning of words that have emerged in this world, we find that the word “Manava” actually relates to the Atma. Embodiments of the Divine Atma, you must have complete faith in the Atma (Self). Do not put your faith in the physical body donned by you. The body, mind, intellect, awareness, senses, inner senses; all these are mere instruments. They are like the dress worn by us. The dress also gets worn out at some time.
20 October to 26 October 2014
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| The Self present in all states of existence is the ultimate Truth |
Everything is Maya (illusion). In this waking state we listen to everything, see everything and experience everything. After we go to sleep, we get drowned in a dream. Where is this waking state in that dream state? The waking state is completely forgotten. We consider and believe the dream state to be true. But for how long does the dream state last? Once the waking state dawns, we neglect the dream state. Is that true or is this true? This is a day dream and that is a night dream. Therefore, both are verily dreams.
Aham Brahmaasmi (I am Brahman), Tat Tvam Asi (That thou art),Prajnaanam Brahma (Awareness is Brahman), Ayam Atma Brahma (I, the Atma is verily Brahman) (these are the four Mahaavaakyas– aphorisms found in the Vedas).
I am Atma, I am Brahma. We must develop such feelings. I am so and so, I am a man, I am Ramaiah, I am Krishnaiah – we must not go by such cheap bodily feelings (illusion). Who gave birth to (gifted) this body? It is our parents. Who gave a name to this body? It is our parents. The name is only given and not born (with you).
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| The permanent address of God is our Heat!! |
Kailasa…Vaikunta…That which never withers away is Vaikunta. Kailasa is the place where there is happiness always. There is no specific city called Kailasa, nor is there any special city called Vaikunta. When Narada asked God, “O Lord, where indeed is your head office?”, He said:
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| Perception of Unity in Diversity is Wisdom |
What is Jnana (wisdom)? There are many types of Jnana. Loka Jnana(worldly knowledge), Bhautika Jnana(physical knowledge or knowledge of the physical world), Samanya Jnana (general knowledge). But what we are referring to here is not knowledge of the physical world. It is Atma Jnana (knowledge of the Atman). It is not mere pursuit of knowledge or enquiry of the physical body, senses, objects or nature. When we enquire into mere physical objects of the world, we acquire only worldly knowledge of the physical world. It is only when we go deep and enquire into spiritual matters that we can acquire knowledge of the Atman to some extent.
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| The entire universe is Shiva Shakti Swaroopa |
Students in this modern age should understand the scientific meaning of the Ardhanrishwara(see note below) principle. No scientist is explaining this concept elaborately and clearly. One must enquire into the similarities that exist between the Ardhanrishwara principle as talked about by the ancients and the terminologies and key words used by modern scientists. There are many more such similarities.
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| Tarakam, Sankhyam and Amanaskam – The way to Divinity |
It is very difficult to know the different levels prescribed by Vedanta. The entire Vedanta may be summed up into three Yogas. More than anything else, we need to understand these three most importantly. Students must listen with great attention. These three (Yogas) are the most significant things that we need to know (in Vedanta). The first one is Tarakam, the second one is Sankhyam and the third one is Amanaskam. These three are the goals, the end and the essence of Vedanta.
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| Past is past…forget the past… |
We should never worry about the past. Nor should we worry about the future. The future is not known to us. It is hidden in the womb of time. The past will never return again. Therefore, we must recognize the present situation.
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| Krishna kept all arrows of Bheeshma pressed under His toe, thus protecting Arjuna from any harm |
Krishna said, “Arjuna, no one has understood the principle of Divinity and the Divine play or sport. God has no selfishness. His only vow is to protect His devotees. His only duty is to nurture His devotees. Today, all the arrows shot by Bheeshma were pressed under the toe of my feet. That is why none of the weapons could harm you. If at all I had got down first, all these weapons would have exploded and turned the chariot into ashes. Under these circumstances, you too would have burned to ashes. Without recognizing this truth, you were insistent that I should get down first. Once Arjuna heard these words, he vanquished his ego. Finding faults in God is also a quality of jealousy.
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| God submits only to pure love and devotion |
Note: Tulabharam is a ritual, symbolic of offering oneself to the Lord. Since one has to live in this world performing one’s mundane worldly affairs, till life lasts, one offers a representative item equal to his / her body weight; usually items like bananas, coconuts, jaggery, fruits, grains or if one can afford, even gold. The ritual consists of literally placing the individual who makes the offering in one pan of the scale and the item to be offered in the other pan, until the two pans of the scale balance equally).
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| God is always loving and has no quality of anger Anger if at all, is shown only to correct the devotee. |
Sages, saints and aspirants; just by changing the tone of their voice have been bringing about protection or punishment. Sage Durvasa also brought about protection and punishment by modulating his voice. Many ignorant people criticize Durvasa, stating that how can such a great saint have anger in him. But only those who understand the inner significance of anger will enquire into this truth. God has no anger of any kind. The one who gets angry can never be God. But, He changes His voice to protect people. No sage or saint can have any anger in them.
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| Krishna multiplies Himself to become each of the missing cowherds and calves |
It is impossible for everyone to understand this Divine Principle. Considering the human form (assumed by God) as an ordinary human being, all are drowned in Maya or illusion. They think, “That body is also like my body only. That body also eats like me, that body also moves around like me. Therefore, there is no difference between the two bodies. I am not different from Him”. Thus they see oneness here. But they do not see oneness of the Atman (Self). They are seeing only the physical form. Thus it is very difficult to recognize the Divinity when it assumes a human form.
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| One leaf from the vessel satiated Krishna’s stomach and the stomachs of thousands of disciples of Sage Durvasa |
When God is satisfied, the whole world becomes satisfied. When God denies you, nobody will accept you. When God says “Yes”, everybody will say “Yes”. Krishna was satisfied. With this, the stomachs of all the disciples of Durvasa were also filled. Having gone for a bath, they went away from there itself and never came to visit the Pandavas. Thus, Draupadi had this quality of great devotion. Having faced all trials and tribulations successfully, God Himself was impressed with her name and fame.
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| Draupadi had full faith that Krishna could grant life to Parikshit |
You say that and you say this also. You say Vamshanaashi and now you say Vamshodharakka. All this does not affect Me!
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| Gopikas alone are My true devotees!! |
Today, in the name of love, you are playing the game of musical chair. You are not allowing the chair to belong to one person. At one time, one person is given the seat, at another time, some other person is given the seat. How can you say the chair is yours then? The Gopikas alone demonstrated that type of authority as an ideal. They lived with all Divine feelings. They experienced every sensory organ with the feeling of making it an offering to God. Their talk was all about God, their thoughts were all about God, their hearing was all about God, their hands were always engaged in the work of God; thus they used all their sense organs with the feeling of offering the experience to God. One could not see anything that they considered as their own. Who are they after all? It is Krishna who is theirs!
Today in the world, everybody claims that they are Swami’s devotees and that they are close to Swami. They feel so, but truly none of them are. In every devotee, there is some amount of selfishness. So long as there is selfishness and pride, God’s vision will never fall on them. How does this happen? The sun is always shining. When dark and dense clouds obstruct the sun, none can see the sun. But is there no light? It is there. But since the clouds obstruct the sun, that light is not able to fall on you. In the same way, God is always the form of Love. But since ego, selfishness and ostentation come as an obstruction in the form of dark and dense clouds; He is not able to spread the principle of Love on you.
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| Total faith in Krishna and His words, made Arjuna eligible to receive the Bhagavad Gita |
Therefore, first and foremost, we must have total faith in the Vedanta (wisdom of the Vedas). Only when there is strong faith, one can conduct accordingly. Whoever it may be, if they follow Swamis command with total faith and with incessant thoughts on Him, they will get Sakshaatkaara(realization of Swami) within one second; just one second, one second, one second!!
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| God is Bhaktaparadeena – He submits Himself to His devotees |
Why do we chant Shanti three times? Adibhautika, Adidaivikaand Adhyatmika – we need to acquire peace at all three levels – body (physical level), mind (mental level) and Atma/soul (spiritual level). Lord Krishna told Roma Rishi, “May you attain peace.” Later Roma Rishi enquired, “Krishna, what are your strange, mysterious ways? There are none greater than You. Is it not? Then, what is the inner meaning in You prostrating to these Pandavas?” Krishna replied, “Roma Rishi, I am Bhakta Manasa Sancharini, dweller of the minds of the devotees. I am Bhaktaparadeena– I submit Myself to My devotees. These are My great devotees. They are the ones who never forget Me under any circumstances. I have become a slave to such devotees. I am Paradeena, Paradeena, Paradeena I am under the control of My devotees.” Then Roma Rishi recognized the strength and capabilities of the Pandavas. He offered the fruit to them asking them to eat it and live a long life. He blessed them with long life, healthy life, happy life, peaceful life!! That is why till the end, Pandavas led a happy life, healthy life and peaceful life. Till when? Until they entered the heavens, they remained healthy. That is the significance of this Amrita Phalam (immortal fruit). They (Pandavas) became the recipients of Krishna’s Grace and also the grace of the Rishi. Therefore, if just devotion to God remains steady in us, we can achieve anything. God Himself will come to us as our servant.
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| Krishna please save my husbands |
We have started the MBA programme in our College. When asked what MBA stands for, students say, “Master of Business Administration”. No, no, no… M B A – M stands for Mind, B stands for Body, and A stands for Atma. Therefore, MBA is the collective form of the Mind, Body and Atma.
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| Ganesha broke away his tusk to write the Mahabharata!! |
Embodiments of the Divine Atma! This is the most significant teaching of Vighneshwara. His very life is an ideal life, a life full of sacrifice. When we enquire correctly into the scriptures, we may at times neglect the same as mere mythology (myth). It is fine even if we neglect the Puranas (mythology), but we must not neglect the ideals placed before us in these Puranas.
Today, in our human world, we refer to Ganapati as the son of Parvati. Parvati means Prakruti or Nature. The Divine principle, Divine power of Prakruti and Paramatma (Nature and Supreme Godhead) is humanity. Therefore, every human being is Vinaayaka. He is a spark / a drop of the Shiva Shakti Swaroopa (embodiment of Nature and Supreme Godhead) that represents the Divine principle.
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| Maanavaananda x 1020 = Brahmaananda |
In the Aananda Valli, the concept of Brahmaanandahas been described in a very unique manner. Brahmaananda is that which cannot be described by humans. It is the one that confers limitless bliss. This bliss cannot be described in words or comprehended by the mind. Unless one leads a calm, stable, peaceful, unsullied and detached day-to-day life, one can never understand this Brahmaananda. In this creation of nature with worldly life and worldly feelings, Brahmaananda has no relevance.
11 August to 17 August 2014
Who is the owner (of the building of creation)? Paramatma (Cosmic Self/God) Himself! When you become one related to Paramatma (God), then you will be able to understand all these valuable principles. Therefore, you need to develop friendship with the owner. How do we develop this friendship? This has been explained in Vedanta clearly, but to make the children understand, I am bringing it down to their level and explaining it in simple terms.
When either anger, jealousy, hatred or any other wicked quality arises in you, suppress it immediately. Tell yourself, “Chhee (an expression of disgust)…this beastial instinct must not exist in me”.
We are forgetting our true form today. We are feeling miserable looking at our temporary form, which is a mere reflection. This is not our true form. We must correctly recognize the Divine principle that is our native land (Svasthaanam– true source). Our native land is the land of the Atman. Adi + Atma = Adhyaatma (spirituality). We must reach our native land (true source); that is spirituality. Only then, will we acquire total happiness.
Vishnu…who is Vishnu? Lord Vishnu is the one who has the Shankha (conch), Chakra (discus), Gadha (maze) and Padma(lotus) in His four hands. In one hand, He has the conch, in another hand, He has the discus, in yet another hand, He has the maze and in the fourth hand, He holds the Lotus. What is the inner significance of these? Conch stands for sound. It means that sound is in the Hands of God. Discuss or wheel is the wheel of time. Time is also in the Hands of God. Maze stands for strength or power. Power is in the hands of God. The Lotus stands for the lotus of the heart. Everybody’s heart is in the Hands of God. Therefore, it is propagated to the world that Lord Vishnu is the all powerful one, bearing symbolically the conch, discus, maze and the lotus.
In the hands of Vishnu, we see the conch and the discus; the maze and the lotus; symbolizing sound, time, power and heart. All these four are in the Hands of God. Coming to Iswara, we find the Damaroo (drum) in His one Hand. In the other Hand, we find the Trishul(trident). The drum represents sound, which means sound is in the Hands of God. The trident represents the subtle form of the three time frames (past, present and future). Therefore, time also is in the Hands of God. Thus, if we see from this perspective, God is only one; the forms and the names are different.
From the worldly perspective, based on the daily experience of the Bharatiyas, here is a good example. The Vasihnavites visit Tirupati (temple). The Shavites also visit Tirupati. But the Lord Venkataramana is only one. When the Shaivites visit Tirupati, they call the Lord as Venkateswara, Venkateswara. When Vaishnavites visit Tirupati, they call the Lord as Venkataramana, Venkataramana. One one hand “Iswara” and on the other hand “Ramana”. The difference lies only in the feelings (of the devotees) but there is no change in Lord Venkateswara. It is only for the satisfaction of the narrow minded people that the Lord is referred to as Venkataramana and Venkateswara.
Iswara is known as Pasupathi. Pasupathi means the Lord of all the pasus, i.e. the animals (cows). What is the meaning of Pasu? The life principle that combines the mind and the intellect is referred to as an animal. With respect to Lord Vishnu, they call Him Gopala. Gopala and Pasupathi actually mean the same. Some call Him Gopala while the others call Him Pasupathi. Even the name points out and highlights the principle of unity. But, it is the narrow mind of the humans that is the root cause for all diversity. However long we may perform Sadhana (spiritual practice) with this narrow mind, we would never be able to reach noble heights. We must recognize unity in diversity. That is true spirituality. You are God. Until you do not realize this, you are Jeeva(individual being); once you realize and know this, you are Daivam (God).
In temples of Iswara (Lord Shiva), there is always a Nandi (bull) at the front. If we enquire as to what this bull stands for, the temple authorities as per their traditions would state that the bull is the vehicle (vahana) of Lord Iswara. But, is it that Lord Iswara could not get a better vehicle than the bull? Why should He have the bull specifically? Therefore, it is very wrong to consider the bull as the vehicle of Lord Iswara.
07 July to 13 July 2014
Who is a Guru? Many say:
Here’s a small example. In ancient times, people performed Yajnas(sacrifices) and Yaagas (religious rituals). The scriptures have clearly stipulated the procedures for all the Yaagas and Yagnas. But there were none to uncover and clearly explain the inner significance of these rituals. They spent all their life only in external activities.
Be it great men or scholars, they are unable to communicate the message of spirituality to the youth of today, in a meaningful manner, explaining the inner significance in a way that it gets imprinted in their hearts. They presume that spirituality is mere acts of nobility like worshipping, doing Bhajans, going on pilgrimages, visiting temples, etc. The main cause for this is that they themselves have not understood and recognized the truth in the Vedas and the Vedangas (auxiliary disciplines of the Vedas), the inner significance in the Itihaasa(scriptures) and Puranaas (epics) and the true meaning of this world (Jagath).
In the morning, Dr. Venkataraman, while explaining the principle of spirituality, stated that God, after creating this universe, did not retain it within His control, but gave away all His powers to mankind. This is true. God is the creator. He created everything. But God who created this (world) did not retain its power in His hands. He gave away all the powers to the people. But along with all the powers that He bestowed on mankind, He just laid down one condition.
Students! You are all youth. There is so much energy contained in youth. The power that is present in this earth is present in you too. The attraction power, the radiance, the current is very much in you. When all the powers are present in you; to lead a life as though you have no power at all, is such a weakness. Wherever there are difficulties in the country, you must go running there and participate in serving there. You must not give any scope for differences like “who are they and who am I?” Give up all the differences of “theirs” and “mine”. Have the feeling that everything is mine! Recognizing the oneness in diversity, you must participate in service to the society.
Man has been bestowed with the intellect (Buddhi) so as to know his true Self. The intellect is highly sacred and pure. The mirror of the intellect is coated with the chemical of Love on the reverse side (just like in a mirror, the glass is coated with a reflective substance like non-toxic silver or sputtering aluminium). If the reflective chemical is not coated on the reverse of the mirror (glass), we would not be able to see our reflection in it. That is why the chemical of Love is coated on the reverse side of the mirror of intellect. Today we are looking through the intellect that does not have the coating of Love. That is why we are seeing the objects that are behind the mirror of the intellect, but are not able to see the object that is in front of it.
God can be known by so many names, indeed thousands of names. But among all names, the most apt and significant name is Sath–Chit–Ananda (Sathchidananda). Sath means eternal (Truth), Chit means total (Awareness). The unity of the two is Ananda (Bliss). Sath is like sugar, Chit is like water, when we mix the two it becomes sugar syrup. The sugar syrup is like Ananda. If, however, we keep sugar separate and water separate, how can we get sugar syrup (Ananda)?
Embodiments of love! You are full of bliss and happiness. Forgetting your own true form of bliss and happiness, you are struggling in this world for bliss and happiness. Being the very embodiment of bliss, it is so ignorant to search for bliss in this world. When we wish to acquire this bliss, the five sheaths place all sorts of obstacles in our way. These are called the Klesha(afflictions).
Once upon a time Buddha set out to seek alms. He neared the village that he was supposed to go to. All the residents of that village had great faith in Buddha. However, as he reached close to the village, some rowdies (ruffians), taking to the wrong path, started abusing him in all ways. Instead of travelling further, Buddha sat there on a rock. He asked (the ruffians), “Children, what is the pleasure that you get in abusing me?” Not giving any reply to him, they started abusing him in a more heinous manner. Buddha sat there stating that they could abuse him as long as they wanted.
Though the same Atman is in all, based upon the ego and attachment of each human body, every individual takes upon the respective joys and sorrows. Here is a small example. Let us say there has been a plane accident somewhere. If our own relatives were to be on that plane, one need not express what our state would be. We would put in efforts for making all types of enquiries. However, if our own people are not on that plane then we get into all sort of gossip, “how did the crash take place?”, “what did happen actually?”, “how many have died?”, etc. We thus get into the act of collecting information.
It is very difficult to understand the principle of Chaitanya. Chaitanya is referred to as consciousness. In order to recognize and understand the principle of consciousness, we take a small aspect of it called the “Conscience”. Conscience means the witness. It is also called Awareness. From this conscience, further comes the “Conscious”.
01-First requisite to develop love for God-Dedication-4.23-1989 February 17
We must develop love that does not change. God’s Love never changes. We must make an effort to cultivate love for God who is truth and eternal. Several changes keep taking place in humanity. But in God, there is Love that never changes. Such true and eternal love for God is called Bhakti (devotion). There are certain desirable requisites for cultivating this love.
The second requisite is Devotion. What is devotion? Performing meditation, singing bhajans, chanting of God’s name, participating in singing His glory; these alone cannot be called Bhakti (devotion). All these are merely sacred acts. Devotion primarily means expression of gratitude. When anybody does some help to us, however small it may be, like someone giving us a towel or some coffee, we say “thanks”. Thus, we express our gratitude even for such small and trivial things in our life.
The third requisite is Discipline. What is discipline? The recognition of the truth that “I am born as a human being, and therefore I must find fulfillment in life by conducting myself as a human being”. That is, everything must be within certain limits. Discipline means observing limits in our conduct. Na Shreyo Niyamam Vinaa– there can be no welfare without discipline or regulation. When we cross the limits, we become victims of disease.
The fourth requisite is Discrimination. In every object and in every individual, good and bad; truth and untruth remain blended together. As they are all mixed up together, we must receive only the good and reject the bad. Let us say, we take a banana. We eat only the inner fruit and we throw away the outer peel. In the same way, with respect to our thoughts also, we need to discriminate, what is good and what is bad, what is right and what is wrong; and we need to accept the good only.
The fifth requisite is Determination. Determination means a type of resolution. We must have the confidence that “I will be able to accomplish this, I must achieve this, I must reach the goal”. If we do not have such determination, we will not be able to achieve anything in life. We have embarked on our spiritual journey; now whatever obstacles may come, whatever difficulties may come, whatever others may speak about us, we must tell ourselves “No, this is my principle, I must accomplish this”. Without such a resolve, we can achieve nothing. It would be as though, we just come, see and go away; like passing clouds. If this is the case, we would not be able to achieve anything in life.
There is a need for undertaking physical effort or exercises. That is why it is said that the one who puts in krushi(efforts) becomes a rishi (saint). It is necessary to follow a daily routine that includes studies, games, sports, prayers, etc. to keep the body fit. Health is wealth. Health is very essential for happiness. For health, games are very important. While playing games, we must follow the right path and protect the rules. We must not waste time. God being the very embodiment of time, we must experience happiness through action (utilization of time with proper action).
Many of you would have studied the epic Bhagavatham. In it, there is a story about a person named Dundhubhi. Students should get up between 4 am and 5 am and complete their morning ablutions, have their bath and engage themselves in their studies. Bhagavatham refer to those who get up, have their bath and go about their morning activities between 4 am and 5 am as those who have had Rishi Snaanam (saintly bath). Those who take their bath and perform morning prayers between 5 am and 6 am are referred to as those who have had Maanava Snaanam(human bath). Bath taken after 7 am is referred to as the Raakshasa Snaanam (demonic bath). Dundhubhi used to take his bath after 7 am. That is, he used to waste away and misuse the sacred Brahma Muhurtam time.
We keep saying, “meditation, meditation”. What meditation are we doing? We close our eyes and sit comfortably. However, the mind keeps wandering around to some washerman’s house or bazaar. Instead of performing mediation in this manner, it is better to engage in action, in service and undertake social work. Without knowing the secret of meditation, merely closing your eyes and sitting for any period of time will only bring you sleep but will never bring you Samadhi (true meditative state). Therefore, first of all, we need to understand what the mind is. Only then, we can control the mind.
If we wish that good thoughts express themselves in us, we need to enter into the spiritual path. Without doing so, we can never develop good and noble thoughts. We must associate ourselves with good company. Only when we join good company, we experience the contagious “disease” that these thoughts are affected with. Right from inception, thoughts have this “disease” of contagious nature. If we join the company of people with bad feelings, the bad feelings will get into us also. If we associate with someone who has anger, then the anger will surface in us also.
I recently told the students three important points. Do not make an attempt to walk in front of Me. Don’t walk in front of Me. I may not follow you. Don’t walk behind Me. I may not lead you. Still, walk beside Me and be My friend. If you make an attempt to walk in front of Me, you may possibly direct Me also on the wrong path, as you do not know the right path. In case you try to walk behind Me and follow Me, you may escape from Me and go away. Walk beside Me; then there will be no scope to escape from Me or go along the wrong path, because I am with you.
I ask a number of people, “Where is God, where is God, where is God?” Many people give the reply, “He is in me, He is in me, God is in me”. Some others say, “God is everywhere, He is omnipresent”. All these responses are mere spoken words. But how do we know that this is the real answer? This must come from experience.
Many people, especially in the West, desire for freedom, the freedom to act as they wish. What is freedom? Does freedom mean behaving as you please, wandering around as you please? No, no. Controlling one’s senses is true freedom. One may wish to get married. But does getting married lead to freedom? No, it leads to bondage, not freedom. How can this be called freedom? One may desire to drink a bottle of wine. But, when he consumes the drink from the bottle, he gets intoxicated. Then where is freedom? He loses control over his mind. How can this be described as freedom? Merely living and moving around as you please is not true freedom.
Love is the very nature of man. But we do not experience this love in an enduring manner. Soon after we are born, we love our mother. Once we grow and commence our education, we love our friends. Gradually as we grow in years and enter our youth, we love our wife (spouse). After a few more years, our love towards our wife (spouse) diminishes and we start loving our children. Once the children grow big and we need to assume greater responsibilities to nourish them, we start loving wealth. Thus, we keep changing the form of our love continuously. First the mother, then friends, then wife (spouse), subsequently children, following that wealth; this is how our love keeps on changing. But we must develop that love which does not change. The love of God does not change. We must make an effort to love God who is truth and eternal. Thus, in humanity, so many changes keep taking place. But In God, there is love that never changes. Such love for God, which is real and eternal, is called devotion.
27 February 2014
According to numerology, the word Shivaratri has four syllables in it – “Shi”, “Vaa”, “Raa” and “Tri”. As per the science of numbers, the number associated with the syllable “Shi” is 5. The number 4 is associated with “Vaa” and the number 2 is associated with “Raa”. These numbers 5, 4 and 2 add up to 11. This is referred to as Ekaadasa Rudra (11 Rudraas). Numbers are associated only with the three syllables “Shi”, “Vaa” and “Raa” However, these three syllables join together and give rise to “Tri”. That is, “Shi”, “Vaa” and “Raa” join together to form Tridalam, Trigunaakaaram, Trinetrancha Triyaayudham, Trijanma Paapa Samhaaram, Eka Bilvam Shivaarpanam. The triad gives rise to the fourth syllable “Tri”. Just like “A”, “U” and “M” join together to give rise to “Aum”, similarly, “Shi”, “Vaa” and “Raa” give rise to “Tri”. It is this triad that takes the form of the Ekaadasa Rudra.
Embodiments of love. Man is filled with bliss, he is the very embodiment of bliss. Being the very form of bliss, he attempts to derive bliss from the external world, in so many ways. When your very form is bliss, if you search for bliss in the external world, how can you get it? As it is said, “Sarvatra Paani Paadam” – His Hands and Feet are everywhere. In the same way, God is in the form of bliss everywhere.
We have instituted four important practices in Ceiling on Desires. The first one is “Don’t waste money”, because misuse of money is evil. We should not misuse money. The second one is “Don’t waste food”; food is God. We should not waste food. The third one is “Don’t waste time”. This is very, very important. Time is everything. Time waste is life waste. You are all wasting lot of time (outside the Ashram). You may sit together, read some sacred texts, sing Bhajans, or learn some devotional songs. But instead of this, if you roam around the roads outside, it is such a waste. Is it not, you tell me. Thus, you are wasting lot of time. Next, “Don’t waste energy”. You waste energy through seeing and through talking all the time. Therefore, you need to reduce unnecessary talk, unnecessary seeing and unnecessary roaming.
Our entire life may be compared to a field of business (a limited company). If the temperature of our body (ideal temperature being 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit) rises beyond 99 degrees Fahrenheit then it results in diseases (like fever). Our blood pressure is supposed to be 120 / 80 mmHg (millimetres of mercury over normal atmospheric pressure). If this (diastolic pressure) goes beyond 90 mmHg, then it results in high blood pressure. Even our eye balls can see only limited amount of brightness of light. If it goes beyond a point, the retina will get burnt. Our ear drums too cannot withstand sounds of any decibels. If it hears sound beyond certain decibels, the ear drum will get damaged or will burst. Thus, our human body is like a limited company. To protect such a body we need to exercise certain limits. There must be moderation in the food that we eat, water that we drink, words that we speak and sounds that we hear. Our entire life needs to operate within certain limits. When we exceed the limits, we are subject to danger.
Because the human beings get associated with dehaatmabhaavam(the feeling that I am the body), the aham(ego) makes it go round and round in so many ways (takes it for a real good ride). Distorted feelings such as “I am doing this”, “I am experiencing this”, “I have gained this victory” are on the rise day by day in humans.
We experience the mutual interrelationship and interdependency of our limbs in our day to day life. Suppose we are walking on a street. The eyes are up and the legs are down. The eyes see a thorn on the street. We may not understand their interrelationship from outside. But they have an inner connection. We do not know how and when it has communicated? What type of phone or telegram it has used? But the moment the eyes see the thorn, the legs cross over the thorn and walk by. Legs do not have eyes. Then, how have they crossed over the thorn? The eyes have seen, but the legs have crossed over it. This is the close relationship that exists between the eyes and the legs.
Every human body is a workshop. The physical body is like a machine. The physical body works effectively like a machine because it recognizes the role played by every limb of the body and the interrelationship that exists between them; and acts accordingly. In this machine of the body, every organ has a specific role to play in mutual relationship with other organs. It is not just a passive mutual relationship between the limbs; they actually share their joys and sorrows with each other. In this workshop of the human body there are many desires and attachments. There is unity among all the limbs. This principle of unity, i.e. the principle of living together, sharing and caring for each other, is taught by the human body. Once we introspect and investigate into this workshop of the human body, we would not need to look into any other workshop.
You may think that we have started this Education in Human Values some 5 or 6 years before. I started this more than 50 years back. When I was in the house of Karnam Subbamma, I used to sing a particular song as part of the Bhajans.
06 January to 12 January 2014
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| Mere listening to Vedic chants gives joy!! |
Today we are neglecting the Vedas, making fun of it. We have no faith in it and consider it as merely some sort of chanting with no specific significance or use. Embodiments of love, it is ok even if you do not know the script of the Vedas, it is enough if you merely listen to the chanting. There is great happiness is mere listening.
30 December 2013 to 05 January 2014
Happiness, prosperity and pleasure are not conferred on us by the New Year. This day too shall pass away like any other day; the same sunrise and the same sunset. Many people look forward eagerly expecting that the New Year will confer on them some good results. This is 100% negative thought. The New Year does not bring anything for us. Just based on the calendar, we consider this as a New Year.
Jesus was one with a pure heart. To begin with, Jesus proclaimed, “I am the messenger of God”. Taking the physical body as the messenger, he engaged in tasks and activities related to the body. Regarding the body as a messenger sent by God, he offered his body to relieve the pain and suffering of the sorrowful and the downtrodden. He started spreading the message to the people though the actions of his body.
Even in the domain of time, we have Satva, Rajasand Tamas. From night 8 pm to morning 4 am, it is Tamasic time. Even birds and animals sleep during this time period. This is defined as the time for the demons. This time period is very powerful for the demons (demonic qualities in man). This time slot is very conducive for carrying out Tamasic activities. Therefore, the 8 hours period from night 8 pm to early morning 4 am is Tamasictime.
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| Slaying of Narakaasura |
When we look into the history, we find that Narakaasura is an evil and wicked person. In that kingdom there were no lights on any day, either in the Bazaar or in the houses. In that kingdom no one could see any women move about. The women had never seen any lit lamps at all. Narakaasura was such an evil person. He brought a number of princes, women and young girls, imprisoned them and subjected them to a lot of suffering. Not able to bear this suffering, many of them prayed to Krishna. They prayed to Him to kill this demon who had taken birth to destroy the very humanness of mankind and to thus save their lives and bring about welfare of humanity.
We must understand the inner meaning of the word “Nara”. “Raha” means destruction. “Na’ means no. Therefore, the one that cannot be destroyed is “Nara” or man. What is the meaning of man who cannot be destroyed? It means “Amrutasya Putrah”. The Upanishads addressed the man as “Shrunvantu Vishwe Amrutasya Putrah” (Shvetaashvatara Upanishad – 2.5). They addressed man as, “O sons of immortality”.
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| Killing the demon in man |
Students, today is the day Narakaasura was killed. That means, the killing of the demon in the Atma. Nara is Atma. Asura is demon. The demon is in every heart. We do not have to go anywhere and earn any special weapon to kill this demon. In our own heart, there is the Nara, who is the Atmaswaroopa (the form of the Atma). Keep thinking about the Atmaswaroopa(the Self), that is Premaswaroopa(the form of Love). That is the true, eternal principle. With such Love, the demon can be killed. To kill this demon, you do not need any other great weapon. This demon will not be killed through any weapon or arms. Love alone can overpower him. There are so many weapons in this world. But what can you do with them? Nothing can be done. One hurts himself by using these weapons. Therefore, the Atmic principle within man is the only one who can kill Narakaasura. When you foster the principle of Atma, this Naraka will die. True devotion is the recognition and practice of this Truth.
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| Festival of lights |
As this is the day to experience happiness, lamps are lit to make the whole world shine with brilliance. The women in the captivity of Narakaasura had never seen the light of the day at all. Only when they were freed from his bondage, they started seeing the light of the day, the light of the lamps. They started lighting lamps.
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| One to Many |
There is one more point. Recognizing the Vedic dictum “Ekoham Bahusyaam” (The One manifested as the Many), we light the lamps. We decorate the place with so many lamps. First we light one lamp and then we light all other lamps using this one lamp. It is just one lamp that lights a thousand lamps. That one lamp has lighted many lamps. That one Jyothi(light) is the Paramjyothi (supreme soul). The rest are Jeevanajyothis(individual souls). This one Paramajyothihas lit all the Jeevanajyothis. Ekoham Bahusyaam – the one light has manifested as many. The Deepaavali day conveys this spiritual message.
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| Bursting crackers |
With joy and enthusiasm of having reached this pure state (of being freed from Narakaasura) the crackers are burst. The sound emanating from these crackers resemble the sound at the time of slaying Narakaasura. When every cracker makes a sound, the 16000 Gopikas experienced great happiness, feeling that, “O Krishna has slayed the head of that demon”. All these sounds were taken as a symbol of the killing of Narakaasura.
All are my brothers-0.31-1999 November 18
The Lord said, “All are My sparks only”.
Youth – Men and Women, you have to travel long in your life. In such a journey, less luggage more comfort, makes travel a pleasure. Our desires are our luggage. We need to reduce our desires gradually. How long do these desires last? What is the benefit we get on account of these desires? No desires accrue to us.
Today, we need to develop compassion. That is the principle of Love gifted to mankind by Jesus. Love, Love, Love… Love is God. Live in Love. Therefore,
We must always live in and with Love. Only such a person is very dear to the Lord. Yo Mad Bhaktaha – He is My true devotee (as stated in the Bhagavad Gita). The one who lives with Love and who aspires for Divine Love, he is My true friend.
This world is called Jagath. Jagath means Jaa + Gath, Jaa + Gath i.e. to go and to come, to go and to come. Everything goes and comes. Nothing remains permanently. Nothing goes permanently. Whatever goes, comes again. Whatever comes, goes again. That is why this world is called Nityam (transient). It is also called Sadasat (neither true nor untrue). It is thus referred to as Jagath.
We are experiencing this world in varied ways. It is not possible for us to leave this world. In this Jagath itself we need to see (have the Darshan of) Jagadeeswara (Divinity). Jagath (world) is the very form of Chaitanya (Awareness). This Awareness is verily the form of Divinity.
What is the meaning of Brahma? Brahma is not the one with four heads. Brahma means the one who fills up the entire universe (vastness). Brahma expands everywhere. Wherever you see, there is Brahma. This expansion Love is God. Contraction love in the form of “this is my body” (limiting to the physical body) is death. The feeling “my body, my body” is limited to one body alone. We must develop expansion love. Love is God, live in Love. We should never have a narrow outlook like “this is my family, these are my children, these are my friends.”
Love is the very life for human beings. Love is God, live in Love. However, we are losing that very Love today. Even the love that we have has become distorted today. But the Divine Love is heart to heart, Love to Love; not body to body.
Body is like a water bubble, mind is like a mad monkey; don’t follow the mind, don’t follow the body; follow the conscience.
If there is righteousness in the heart, there will be beauty in the character,
First of all, we must develop peace in our homes. But even before developing peace in our homes, we must nurture peace in our hearts. If you yourself do not have peace, how can you confer peace on your people at home? And if there is no peace at home, how can you confer peace on the people in your town/city?
Therefore, in such situations, we must go slow and offer our thoughts to the intellect. Based on the enquiry conducted by the intellect, we must take the final decision. Then alone can we enjoy peace.
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| Bell serves as a visiting card to see God!! |
There is great joy even in listening. It is Naada(Divine sound). There is great power in sound. We have bells in a temple. All who visit the temple ring the bell. Why are bells kept in a temple? Are they kept to wake up God who is sleeping? No, no, no. Those who do not know Vedam, regard this very Naada as Vedam and make God hear this sound.
The Omkaaram must be chanted in a very pleasant, sweet and soft manner. It must sound as though it comes from very far, approaches very close and then goes very far again. The people from urban areas must have experienced this. When the plane is flying somewhere far off, you can hear a little bit of the sound. When it comes close, the sound is heard very loudly. Again when it moves far away, the sound keeps on decreasing. Omkaaram must be chanted in a similar manner.
The Vedas were propagated under nine heads or titles. :
So students, what do you need to do primarily? Study well and concentrate on our studies. Recognize and develop discrimination with respect to that knowledge. Make an effort to put this knowledge into practice, to the extent possible. I have told a couple of times, there are five types of knowledge. However, students today are ending their pursuit (of knowledge) with just bookish knowledge itself. Some students go further and achieve the level of superficial knowledge. But there is a lack of general knowledge. Discrimination knowledge is totally absent. How then, can one acquire practical knowledge? Therefore, practical knowledge is very important. Because of lack of practical knowledge, our education is very artificial.
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| Jagath is nothing but going and coming… |
This world is called Jagath. Jagath means Jaa + Gath, Jaa + Gath i.e. to go and to come, to go and to come. Everything goes and comes. Nothing remains permanently. Nothing goes permanently. Whatever goes, comes again. Whatever comes, goes again. That is why this world is called Nityam (transient). It is also called Sadasat (neither true nor untrue). It is thus referred to as Jagath.
04 November to 10 November 2013
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| Bursting crackers within limits has benefits too |
There is a scientific explanation also (for bursting crackers during Diwali). The season that has just gone by is the monsoon season. Wherever you see, you find stagnated water and puddles of water. On account of this unhygienic environment, many germs and insects start increasing in number. Ill health starts progressing in humans because of these germs and insects. By bursting crackers, the fumes and the toxic materials kills these germs and insects. This helps man to be healthy and happy. Bharatiyas started all these festivities and practices with lot of inner significance.
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| Narakaa was truly a planet approaching earth |
There is a scientific history (for the story of Narakaasura). There are many planets in the sky. Many planets revolve in this universe. But the nine planets (Navagrahaas) are very important for the planet of earth. There are many more sub-planets too. In the Dwaapara Yuga, a planet called Narakaa was moving very close to the planet earth. If this planet would crash into earth, the entire earth would be turned into ashes. In fact, even if the moon that is so cool would come even a few feet closer to the earth, the earth would be turned into ashes. There can be so many calamities. The planet Narakaa came very close to earth and was about to crash into earth.
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| Light the lamp of wisdom in your heart |
To light a lamp we need four items. One is the container, second is the oil, third is the wick and the fourth is the match box. Even if one of these four items is missing, we will not be able to light the lamp. All these four items are essential. But what type of darkness does this light remove? It dispels only the outer (physical) darkness.
28 October to 03 November 2013
Satyam Maata…
Embodiments of Love! First and foremost recognize your own Divine principle. Recognize the truth as to who you are. The one who recognizes His true Self can understand everything else. There are many new children here. You can recognize your true Self through many small ways.
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| Grama Seva is Rama Seva |
In the earlier years, welfare of the villages was always in my mind. But actively engaged in the projects on education, health and water, I gave up village service to some extent.
Embodiments of Love, Satyam Maata – Truth is our Mother. In this world, every individual has a mother. But in this creation, for all human beings, there is one Mother. We must recognize that single Mother. For this physical world, in this worldly life, it is very difficult to understand the transcendental principle. For every individual who travels on the Pravritti Marga (outward or worldly path), it is very necessary to understand Divinity. Every person has a Divine mother. For those who follow this Divine mother, there will be no obstacles or problems. Satyam Maata – This mother – the Truth, is Trikaala Baadhyam– it remains the same in all three periods of time, it is the head of Trilokaa (the three worlds) and it transcends the three qualities or attributes (Satva, Rajas and Tamas). The physical mother may undergo change, she may change her geographical location and she may even die. But Truth as the Mother is always the same at any place, at any time and for any individual.
What is the inner significance of worship of the Mother during Navaratri?
The mother is our true preceptor. The life of a human being who does not respect and worship such a mother is indeed futile. Therefore, it is the duty of every human being to respect and love the mother who is the embodiment of all powers. The festival of Devi Navaratri is an excuse to propagate this Divine message and to set several ideals to the entire world. The Goddess manifests in the form of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati.
Many people visit temples. They go to the Venkateswara (Balaji) temple. They pray, “Swami if you fulfil my desires, I will perform Brahmotsavam(a special ceremony) for you. Swami if you get my daughter married, then I will perform your marriage.” Are you the person to perform God’s marriage? Will God fulfil your prayers / desires for the sake of His marriage? You are cheating God by offering Him such temptations. Praying to God with selfish expectations of some returns is no Love at all.
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| The manner in which one dies is more important than the manner in which one is born |
Once there was a mother who was very strict and duly punished her child as she brought him up (Swami is referring to Putlibai, the mother of Gandhiji). Yatha Raaja Thatha Prajaa (as is the king so are the citizens); similarly Yathaa Adhikaari Thatha Sevakulu (as is the master so are the servants). The mother who had a very sacred heart had a maidservant who was also very sacred at heart. Her name was Rambha. Rambha protected the children very carefully.
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| Nurture the intellect |
In those days only few people associated with Gandhi and having formed the Congress party are claimed to have brought independence to our country of Bharath. But it’s not just that. Among our children, every one of them must become a Gandhi.
No one should hate anybody. Today in the world, on account of narrow minded feelings, there is hatred everywhere. One takes the life of the other. What a sin it is. It is equivalent to killing God Himself. This is very wrong. No one should hate anybody else. One’s hatred will hate one’s own self. You may feel happy that you hate somebody or you are hurting somebody. But that is not true happiness at all. That is demonic pleasure. In fact, make others happy; that will give you true happiness. That happiness is verily your true form.
Kama (Desire), Krodha (Anger), Lobha(Greed), Moha (Attachment), Mada (Pride) and Matsarya (Jealousy) are animal qualities and not human qualities. Within a second you get angry. At such moments, take time. (Ask yourself) “Am I dog or man? Am I dog or man? Am I dog or man?” (Answer to yourself) “I am not dog, I am man, man.”
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| When the ego is surrendered, one achieves liberation! |
Indha Pujyamaaya Onam Divasaa
16 September to 22 September 2013
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| Dunnapota!! |
Whenever I appear angry, I am only acting as though I am angry, but I have truly no anger. At such times, when I appear angry, I scold them (students / devotees). How do I scold them? I call them Dunnapota (he-buffalo). My scolding is just that. Dunnapota means he-buffalo. You are a he-buffalo, because you are doing any good work. If you really do good work, then you will become a good-fellow (not a bu-ffalo!).
This section of the blog presents well known quotes of Bhagawan Baba, filled with profound wisdom and yet so simple in its presentation. The huge banyan tree lies unmanifest in a small seed. So too the eternal wisdom lies pregnant in these quotes of Bhagawan. Read, hear, introspect and assimilate the wisdom in these quotes.
Today there is no Atma Balam (Atmic strength). One’s Self-confidence is subject to bumps and jumps every second to second. There is no steadiness at all. If one’s desires are fulfilled, they keep 10 photos (of God) in the place of one. If, on the other hand, one’s wishes are not fulfilled, they remove even the photos that are currently there. This is not true steadiness. You may worship the picture as a God, but not God as a picture. If we keep changing our feelings like this from every second to second, how can our life gain any steadiness? Whatever losses, difficulties, sorrows or worries we may come across; we must face them courageously and make an effort to overcome them.
Here there are three – you, your image and the mirror. O fool, remove the mirror and the image too is gone. Only one is left (the object).
None should have hatred towards any other person. The reason for this is that if you hate anybody it will amount to you hating your God. Therefore, it is said in the Upanishads, “Sarva Jeeva Namaskaaram Keshavam Pratigachchati”. It means that to whomsoever we salute or pay obeisance, it is equivalent to saluting or paying our obeisance to Keshava (God). In the same way, “Sarva Jeeva Tiraskaaram Keshavam Pratigachchati”. If you abuse or criticize anybody, that also reaches God. When one criticizes others, and that itself reaches God, what would be one’s fate if he/she were to directly criticize God? Thus, we must not hate anybody. It is said in the Bhagavad Gita, “Adveshta Sarva Bhootaanaam” – we should not hate anybody.
Worldly unity is only about “Hello, hello, hello, hello”. Is this unity? When there is money in the pocket, when your father’s position is very good, when everything is fine, all will come to you saying “hello, hello”. When the money is gone and the position is gone, there will not be anyone in the world to even say goodbye to you. So long as there is water in the tank, there will be thousands of frogs over there. Once the water dries up, there will not even be one frog over there. Therefore, unity related to the world is all based on money, money and money. Money makes many things, money makes many wrongs. With respect to God, it is “Mann” (mind) and with respect to the world it is money. We must seek unity through the mind. Mind to mind, heart to heart, love to love; not body to body.
I tell many students, the spelling of watch is W A T C H. We must advise the students thus – what is this? This is a W A T C H. The first letter is “W” – Watch your Word. You must watch whether you are using sacred words or bad words. The second letter is “A” – Watch your Action. The third letter is “T” – watch your Thought. The fourth letter is “C” – Watch your Character. “H” – Watch your Heart. This the true watch. When we talk of watch, we look at our wrist watch. That is not the real watch. The wrist watch may get spoiled, but this word “W A T C H” will never get spoiled. It will always bestow sacredness on you.
What is the meaning of the word “Independence”? Dependence means being under the control of others. Not just other people but being under the control of anything is dependence. Therefore, “Dependence” is being under the control of anyone or anything and “Independence” is not being under the control of anybody or anything. Thus we must not be “dependent”; we must be “in-dependent”. This is what is called Swaatantram.
Since God is both inside and outside, we must experience freedom both internally and externally. Antar Bahischa Tatsarvam Vyaapya Naarayanaha. The same God is present both inside and outside. Therefore, when man truly wishes to attain freedom, he must recognize the control of senses, truth of God, and broadmindedness of man.
Receiving from God is the path of richness, but receiving from the world is the path of poorness. Once Lord Buddha questioned within himself as to who was the richest man in this world; his father or the kings? No, this is a great mistake. He who has much satisfaction is the richest man. Who is the poorest man? He who has many desires is the poorest man. Therefore, when we reduce these desires gradually, we gain the right to receive the love of God. We need to reduce this selfish love. We need to reduce our desires gradually.
You feel that you are thinking of Me constantly. Maam Anusmarana Cha – you are doing Smaranabut not Anusmarana. Smarana or contemplation is bound by a particular time, discipline and place. But Anusmaranais Sarvada Sarva Kaaleshu Sarvatra Harichintanam – contemplation of God always, at all times and everywhere. You will be able to recognize My Divinity only when you practice and experience Anusmarana. Then, these worldly problems will not affect you anymore.
We need to respect the elders. First we need to salute God – Adi Devo Bhava. Then we need to salute our friends, our mother and our Guru. Matru Devo Bhava (Mother is God), Pitru Devo Bhava (Father is God), Aacharya Devo Bhava (Preceptor is God), Athiti Devo Bhava (Guest is God). If you respect all of them today (now), others will respect you tomorrow (later). If you do not give respect today, later other fellow beings will not respect you. Give respect and take respect.
To start with man must exercise control over his ten senses. The words that come forth from the mouth must be sacred. You cannot always oblige, but you can speak always obligingly. Utter your words peacefully. Do not use harsh words.
God is not different from us at all. God is shining brilliantly in all as the Atma Swaroopa (the Self). This is called the conscience. Therefore, you must follow your conscience. This is what I tell the students often – the 4Fs: F-F-F-F
Follow the Master. Who is your Master? Your God is your Master. That is, your conscience is your Master. Therefore, follow your conscience. Face the devil. Who do you think is the devil? It is all the wealth. Do not have excessive desire for wealth. Throw out this desire. Next, the third F. Fight to the end. Finish the game. That is Mukti (liberation).
On one side is the eight lettered mantra – Shra-ddha-vaan-La-bha-the-Jnaa-nam(Shraddhavaan Labhathe Jnaanam: the man of faith acquires supreme wisdom). On the other side is the eight lettered mantra – Sam-shay-Aat-ma-Vi-nash-ya-te(Samshayaatma Vinashyathi: the one filled with doubts will perish). Human life can reach its goal only when there is Shraddha (faith) on one side and Nisamshayam (doubtlessness) on the other side.
You are the Master. Body, mind, senses are all instruments. You are here to make use of these instruments. Make good use of these instruments.
Today we must develop faith. Faith must be our very life breath!
Self-confidence is the first – it is the foundation. Self-satisfaction is the walls. Self-sacrifice is the roof. Self-realization is life.
Vinaayaka is the one with the power and capability of supreme intelligence. Humans derive happiness and joy because of the combination of Buddhi (intelligence) and Siddhi(fulfilment or achievement). Therefore, in the worldly stories (Puranas), Siddhi and Buddhi are referred to as the consorts of Vinaayaka. Since, He is the master (adhipati) of intellect and wisdom, He is referred to as their husband (pati). Thus being the master of Siddhi and Buddhi, Vinaayaka is called the leader or the adhipati of these. Humans derive happiness and bliss because of the combination of Buddhi (intelligence) and Siddhi (fulfilment or achievement). That is why; happiness and bliss are also referred to as the children of Vinaayaka.
Vinaayaka is the one with a pure heart. Siddhi (fulfilment or achievement) and Buddhi (intellect) are His two eyes. The two eyes of Siddhiand Buddhi are regarded as His two consorts. Thus Vinaayaka is the Nayakaor the leader of Siddhi and Buddhi. To have Siddhi (fulfilment), one must have Buddhi (intellect). To have Buddhi(intellect), we must develop the feeling of gratitude in us. For the one without any gratitude, the intellect will be destroyed. Once the intellect is destroyed, how can you have any fulfilment or achievement? Sarva Siddhi Sampradaaya Namah – Vinaayaka is the one who bestows on you all the achievements (success). We need to make an effort to recognize this principle of Lord Vinaayaka.
Vinaayaka has supreme intelligence. In the morning when I came to the Hostel, Sai Gita (the elephant) came towards Me trumpeting with delight! She does not trumpet at any other car. My car came and behind My car, there were another 80 cars. The moment My car came and she heard the sound of My car, she came trumpeting loudly to the road. See, how clever she is. She has so much wisdom and intelligence. That is why any individual who is very intelligent is generally referred to as the one having the intelligence of an elephant (gaja telivi – elephant intelligence). The elephant has such supreme intelligence. Therefore, the reason behind placing an elephant head for Vighneshwara, is to declare to the people through this symbol, that He is the one of great intelligence. Otherwise, why else would they create Him with human hands and legs and with the head alone as an elephant head? They gave maximum importance to His intelligence (medha shakti – power of intelligence).
Vighneshwara is created with the head of an elephant and the vehicle of a mouse to declare to the world the ideal and the truth that Divinity is not limited to the human form only. Divinity exists even in insects and in all beings. The elephant is supremely intelligent. It is full of loyalty. It will never forget its master, even if it loses its life. Without forgetting the master, so long as it is alive, with the principle of Divinity in it, it nurtures a sense of gratitude. The elephant stands for the quality of gratitude. Gratitude is a very sacred quality. Kshama (forbearance) is truth, kshama is dharma, kshama is vedam, kshama is non-violence, kshama is indeed everything. The elephant is the very embodiment of kshama (forbearance). The elephant would be ready to even give up its life, but it will never tolerate any pain to its master.
What is the inner significance of the Mushika (mouse) being the Vaahana (chariot) of Lord Ganesha?
What is this elephant head and a mouse vehicle for Ganesha? The mouse is called a Mushika. The Mushika is a symbol for the night. Night stands for darkness. Therefore, the mouse symbolizes darkness (darkness of ignorance). Since, Ganesha has trampled the darkness beneath Him (kept it under check), He is referred to as the one having a mouse as a vehicle. Vinaayaka is the master who dispels the darkness and bestows light on the world.
He is also known as Vinaayaka. Vinato Naayaka Iti Vinaayaka – The one without any master (leader) is Vinaayaka. Vinaayaka has no leader. He is all independent (absolutely free). Everybody (in this world) has some leader (master), everybody has some authority above them, but Vinaayaka has no master. The one with the mind alone has a master. But, where is the (need for a) master for the one without a mind? Thus, Vinaayaka is the principle that transcends the state of amanaska(mindlessness). Without understanding this true principle of Vinaayaka, we merely regard Him as the physical and visible form having the trunk of an elephant, with four hands and with ears like fans. Vinaayaka is the master for the entire world, the universe, and all the beings.
Vedas describe Ganesha as Ganaadipa. Who are these Ganas?
This is a family of four members: Iswara, Parvati, Vighneshwara and Subramanyam. They symbolize Paramatma (Divinity), Prakruti (Nature), Buddhi (Intellect) and Siddhi(Fulfillment) respectively. These four stay together in unity. If we enquire about this from a worldly point of view, the chariot of Iswara is the bull and the chariot of Pravati is the lion. The bull and the lion are great enemies. (Swami sings the Telugu song – Tandava Kelisalpene Parameswarudu Sri Sambasivudu…). Lord Shiva has the Ganga on His head and fire (in the form of the third eye) in His face (forehead). Fire and water are opposites. However, they remain there without assuming or manifesting any opposition. Given all this, the family dances the Tandava dance.
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| Bangaaroo |
I often call you as Bangaaroo, Bangaaroo (gold, gold). What do we mean by Bangaaroo(gold)? You are the one with Hiranyagarbha(golden womb – cosmic principle). Hiranyagarbhaaya Namah (obeisance to the Hiranyagarbha– cosmic principle). Your entire heart is full of the principle of Hiranya (gold). The gold may be converted into any ornament. If not an ornament, it can be at least kept as a coin. Therefore, the one that gets transformed into certain forms is gold, the one without any form is also gold. Thus, with a form you are gold and even in the formless state you are gold.
Teachers Day Special
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The Universal Teacher
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Serve the world. We are born in this world for undertaking service and not for wielding authority. What is this authority? We are born mainly to serve others. God made us take birth (in this world) only for the purpose of service. Therefore, understand the truth that we are born for service. Service does mean government service or this or that service (i.e. your jobs). You can do your respective services (jobs). But the real service is service to humanity, service to the world. Help the poor. Serve the sick people. Give strength and empower the weak people. Life is not meant for earning money to fill our stomachs alone. Recognize the truth that there are crores of people out there who also have a stomach that needs to be filled. They go through so many difficulties. We must take the initiative to help and serve such people. Then alone will our lives be truly fulfilled.
Yashoda said, “Krishna, you do not eat what I am offering to you. You go to the houses of the cowherds and collect fistfuls of butter from their pots and eat it. The matter has come to the knowledge of all on the streets. What is this madness? Is there no butter in our house? Why should you not eat when I offer to you? Why does the butter from other houses appear so tasty for you? Because you steal that butter, the whole village is full of noisy complaints. Your full mouth has the smell of butter. The entire village is protesting with so many complaints. You are such a small child. Why are making so much mischief in this Gokulam? You should not do this.”
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| Krishna is the stealer of hearts!! |
Not all can recognize the reality of Krishna. We think, “Oh! He is the son of Yashoda, who indulges in silly acts like taking butter from one house and dropping it in another’s house.” Why should Krishna indulge in this type of “cheating”? We consider this as “cheating”. No, it is not cheating at all. There is a lot of significance in this. What exactly is butter? When milk (after curdling and transformed into curd) is churned and the essence is extracted from it, it assumes the form of butter. Similarly, to bring forth or manifest God (as unity), who resides in all forms of life (as diversity), such churning has to be carried out. There is Divinity in such unity.
We must understand properly the meaning of the term Krishna. The word has three meanings. One is “Krishyathi Iti Krishnah”(The one who cultivates is Krishna). Krishimeans cultivation. What is it that has to be cultivated? Krishna cultivates the Hridayakshetra (field of the heart). He removes the unwanted weeds of bad qualities, waters it with the water of love and softens it, ploughs it with the use of sadhanaand sows the seeds of devotion to God. This is how Krishna cultivates the field of our hearts. This is “Krishyathi Iti Krishnah”.
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| Samskrithi is the culturing process |
Samskrithi means the one that is refined or transformed. The word samskrithi, originates from the root samskritham. It refers to the process of refinement of every object that is in its natural form, before it is made fit for human use. A small example; we eat rice every day. But consider how many transformations are undergone by paddy before it reaches this state and becomes fit for consumption. Threshing the paddy grains from the sheaves, winnowing and separating grains from chaff, pounding or milling to remove the husk from the grain, cleaning the rice by removing extraneous matter like small stones and weed seeds, etc., soaking the raw rice in water, and finally cooking over fire to get cooked rice that we can eat. Such samskrithi (refinement) makes it possible for us to consume the rice. Samskaaram(transformation) also enhances the value of things. For instance, the value of paddy is, say, one hundred rupees per bag. But, when it is dehusked and cleaned in the milling process and made fir for consumption, the value of one bag of rice becomes six hundred rupees. What is the reason for one sack of paddy costing a mere Rs.100, to assume the value of Rs.600 when it is converted into a sack of rice? The value comes from the process of transformation.
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| True unity is unity with God |
First of all, you must develop purity. When purity develops in you, unity will come to you naturally. When there is unity, Divinity will manifest itself. So long as there is no purity, we will never get unity. Unity with whom? Is mixing with and connecting to our friends, unity? No. no. Primarily, unity must be with God. Once you achieve this (Divine) unity, you will, in a very natural way, get worldly unity.
15 August 2013 Special
What is the meaning of Swatantram (freedom)? Tantram means Atma (Self). Swaa-Tantram means following the Atman, coming under the control of the Atman (Self). Paraadheenam Dukham Atmaadheenam Sukham – One who is under the control of others will be full of sorrow, while one who is under the control of the Atman will be full of happiness. Therefore, it is called Swaatantram, i.e. follow your heart (not physical heart but spiritual heart symbolic of one’s inner/higher Self). Your heart is your Guru; your heart is your God; your heart is your Master. Therefore, it is said – Follow the Master, Finish the Devil, Fight to the End, Finish the Game. Those who follow their heart will gain victory. Thus, follow God.
12 August to 18 August 2013
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| Anusmarana – Think of Me constantly |
At one point of time Arjuna made a prayer (to Lord Krishna), “Krishna, I am thinking of you continuously, then why should I face these problems (in life)? Why do I need to fight this war? Why do I need to face all these family related anxieties? Why are you bestowing all these difficulties on me?”
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| Two banks for the river of human life |
The Bhagavad Gita has laid down two banks to channelize the flow of its message. In the absence of these banks, the river of life will be subject to many problems, difficulties, and hazards. On one side is an eight lettered mantra and on the other side too there is an eight lettered mantra. The inner meaning is that when the river of life flows in between these two banks of mantras, it will be blessed with peace and happiness and will ultimately reach the sea of Divine Grace.
July to 04 August 2013
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| Intellect is like the charioteer of our life |
Dear students, according to the declaration of the Upanishads, we have recognized that the human body is like a chariot, the sense organs are like the horses, and the mind is like the rein. The principle of the body, mind and senses, by themselves, are useless. However beautiful the chariot may be, however dependable the horses, and however firm and secure the reins, all of these are of no use if there is no charioteer. (Similarly, however efficient the body, the senses and the mind may be, they serve no purpose in the absence of the charioteer, namely, buddhi-intellect).
22 July to 28 July 2013
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| God is your true Guru |
Who is a (true) Guru? Not the Gurus of today! Whispering a Mantra into the ear and stretching one’s hand for money – is this the Guru principle? This is not the Guru principle. Gu-Ru – Gukaro Gunateethaha Rukaro Rupavarjithaha. We must consider the principle that is beyond attributes (attributeless) and that transcends the form (formless) as the Guru. Therefore the Guru is very essential for us to understand this principle, which is beyond attributes. Since it is difficult to get such Gurus, consider God as your Guru.
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| Do your best and leave the rest to Him! |
Just because you surrender to God, does it mean God will take care of everything? The duty that you need to perform has to be carried out. Kartavyam Yoga Muchyate – You must discharge your duty properly. It is sheer laziness to give up your duty and consider that God will take care of everything.
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| I am Sat Chit Ananda Swaroopa |
Na Punyam Na Paapam Na Saukhyam Na Dukham
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| Seek immunity from the evil impact of Kali age |
Sadayam Hrudayam
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| Life is a challenge – Meet it! |
Grishtam Grishtam Punarapi Punaha,
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| Be on guard!! |
Janma Dukham, Jaraa Dukham,
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| The tongue is very important! |
Jihvaagre Vartate Lakshmi
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| Wisdom alone gives happiness! |
Naasti Lobha Samo Vyaadhi
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| A virtous son illumines the entire clan! |
Pradoshe Deepakaschandraha
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| Human Body, once lost, can never be got again |
Punarvittam, Punarmitram, Punarpatni, Punar Mahi
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| Everything is Transient |
Asthiram Jeevanam Loke
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| Bhagavad Gita 12.16 Image Source |
Anapeksha Suchir Daksha Udaasino Gathavyathah.
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| Desireless State |
Anapeksha Suchirdaksha…
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| Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham |
Anapeksha. God questioned Himself, “what type of person is very dear to Me?” He gave the reply, “Anapeksha – The one who has not got any type of expectations (who loves Me) is the one dear to Me”. Today, in this world, you cannot find any individual who is without any expectations (desires). Everyone has some or the other desire, some things that they like, some things that they consider sacred. The experiences of the worldly senses yield only momentary happiness. It is temporary, not ever-lasting, and momentary. All entertain such desires only. But the one beyond this, transcending the senses is the Shreyo Marga (the inward path). This is the sacred path. All desires are subsumed in these two types of desires. When man performs any action, if he does it with the feeling of Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham (offering everything to please the Lord), then it assumes the form of sacred actions. We must consider any work that we do as God’s work. When we perform work with such feelings it will amount to Anapeksha. Any action that is done without any selfishness or self-centeredness, that is done only for the sake of love for God, for realizing God and for acquiring Divine bliss, comes under the category of Anapeksha.
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| Perform only righteous actions |
Anapeksha. One must not have any type of expectations (desires). Is it possible for a human being endowed with body, senses, mind and intellect to exist without any expectations or desires? It is not possible. Expectations have to be there. But what type of expectations? Even in the Dwapara age, the preaching (of Lord Krishna) was that all righteous actions are His very own Form (Divine). What type of desires must humans have? Among all the desires, those that are based on sacrifice are the greatest. Righteous desires are very important. Desire for God is very important. People in this world have varied desires; some have righteous desires and others have great desires. Yet others have desires that combine righteousness with greatness. Therefore, no one has the right to judge between these two.
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| Offer everything to God! |
If God loves the one who has developed Anapeksha (desireless state), then how is this Anapekshato be acquired? When all Dharma (duties) and Karma (actions) are performed to please the Lord, they will true righteous actions. They will be actions without any expectations. Therefore, Anapekshadoes not mean not having any expectations. One can have any expectations, but all these expectations must be offered to the Lord. We must consider that all actions are done to please the Lord. Then the word Anapeksha will find true fulfillment. Thus, when the one having Anapeksha, performs all actions to please the Lord, God will love such a person.
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| Inner and Outer Purity |
The second quality is Suchihi. Suchihi means cleanliness, purity. It is not enough to keep just the outer body clean. Inner cleanliness (purity) is also very important for spiritual aspirants. What is the meaning of inner cleanliness? All actions performed by man originate from within; they do not come from outside. Everything is a reflection of the inner being. When the inner feelings are pure, only then all the actions performed by man will also be pure. When the inner feelings are impure, all actions performed by man will also be impure. What is it that has to be done within? It is the Mano-Vaak-Kaaya (mind-speech-body) that is to be purified.
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| Purity of speech |
The important aspect is speech (word). The word should be pure. What should be done to make the word pure?
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| Purification of mind |
The second is the mind. The mind gets polluted because of bad feelings and wicked thoughts. To the extent possible, human beings should try to prevent the entry of bad thoughts in their mind. All the time man indulges in bad thoughts. Yad Bhaavam Tad Bhavati (As is the feeling so is the outcome). Once such bad feelings enter the mind, man bears the fruits that are also unsacred. Therefore, in order to make the mind pure, bad thoughts have to be distanced. One must take care not to allow entry of bad feelings. Only then, will the mind be purified.
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| Purity of body |
The third one is the body. The body should not be blemished by any violence. We commit so much of violence with these hands. We commit so many sins with these hands. Sareera Maadhyam Khalu Dharma Saadhanam – This body has been given for performing righteous deeds (Dharma) and not for performing wicked deeds. Human life has been associated with this (physical) body. Jantunaam Nara Janma Durlabham – The human birth is the rarest of all. We are experiencing this rare human birth through this body. Purifying the body is to engage the body in sacred tasks, acts of service to others and actions related to God. Therefore, inner purity means to remove the defects of the mind, the speech and the body (thoughts, words and deeds). In Suchi, inner cleanliness is very important.
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| Chitta Shuddhi |
The second quality is Suchihi. It means outer and inner cleanliness. Even if outer cleanliness is not there, inner cleanliness is very important. God aspires only for Chitta Shuddhi (purity of the mind). Chittasya Shuddhaye Karmaha. All actions have originated only for purification of the mind. If we pour water into a tumbler (glass), even if the tumbler is not clean outside, if it is clean inside, we may be able to use the water for a few days. So what does God expect? He expects inner purity. This is the second quality. The one with Anapeksha(desireless) and inner purity will be deserving of God’s Love.
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| Brass vessel must have a tin coating Image Source |
The second quality is Suchi. What is the meaning of Suchi? It means cleanliness. What type of cleanliness? Is it inner cleanliness or outer cleanliness? Both are essential. God loves cleanliness. If we keep only outer cleanliness as our goal (that is not enough), we must understand that inner cleanliness is very important. Though God is there outside and inside, we must make an attempt to understand the principle of God within us.
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| Daksha – Determination |
The third quality is Dakshaha. It means determination in the performance of actions. Determination must be demonstrated only in actions that are sacred, fulfilling and related to welfare of others. Humans cannot stay without performing actions for even one second. So, in such a situation, to perform sacred actions amounts to determination. Under any circumstances, or in any situation, we must not engage in unsacred actions. This is the determination (to be exercised) in the domain of sacred actions. Only such a person can be a true Dakshaor a Karmaadhikaari (master of actions).
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| Be determined |
The third quality is Dakshaha. It means the one who has determination. To never forget God, to engage in actions for the welfare of others, and to perform Nishkaama Karma(selfless actions) under all circumstances, is determination. It is only an individual, who, at all times and in all situations, not mindful of any obstacles to her/his thoughts and ideas, overcomes all of them and moves forward; can be dear to the Lord. Not subdued by sorrow and not elated by happiness, having a feeling of equanimity and seeking the truth, is true determination. God has said that such ones are dear to Him.
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| Hold on – Never give up! |
The third quality is Daksha. It means; to be determined. What type of determination should we have? If we wish to accomplish some task, until we achieve the same, we should not rest in peace. We must take it like a vow. I keep telling you now and then:
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| Udaasina – Detachment |
The forth quality is Udaasina. What is the meaning of Udaasina? It is to live without being related (attached) to anything. Be it repute or disrepute, profit or loss, sorrow or joy; one should be in a state of equanimity; without getting depressed, dejected, frustrated or elated. We need not have any fear of disrepute, not should we get elated with repute. Repute and disrepute are like passing clouds. We must remain an eternal witness to these. We must remain as an Udaasina (disconnected). We must not take it to heart. If we do so (take it to heart), it will pollute our minds. It can even transform human nature into demonic nature. Therefore, Udaasinata means, we must not get dejected or elated with either good or bad, joy or sorrow, sin or virtue. Udaasina is to remain unmindful of all these (dualities).
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| Have no expectations |
Anapeksha, Suchir Daksha, Udaasino… One must remain unattached to everything. You may perform any task, but there must be no relationship (attachment) between you and the task. You may participate in any type of work. You may participate in carrying out service for others. But you must not entertain any desire for the outcomes / results. Any work that you do must be without expectation of the fruit. Not only this. We must also be very careful of our association with any Institution. We must not crave for name and fame. We must not submit ourselves to recognition and respect. We must be away from the wrong desire such as, “Oh, I have done so much work, but my name has not appeared in the papers”. If you struggle like this for the fruit of your action, then the actual outcome of the action will also become zero. Therefore, when you perform any task, if you have expectation of the results, then it amounts to your submission to the task. Thus, we have to participate in tasks without expectation of any fruits thereof, and lead our lives remaining happy, irrespective of victory or defeat.
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| Past is Past Do not brood about the past |
Gathavyathah is the fifth quality. This (absence of this quality) is the greatest weakness in mankind today. Man is not performing actions which he has to, in the present. He broods continuously about something that has happened in the past. He keeps on thinking about the future. Why should you worry about the future? Why should you worry about the past? Past is past. You cannot get back even one second of the past, how much ever wealth you may be ready to give. Forget the past. Next, the future; what surety do you have about the future? Where is the courage for you to even say that you will be alive till tomorrow? Future is not sure. Do not brood over the future. Do not think about the future. Take the present as most important. This present is not ordinary present. It is omnipresent. Past results are in the present. Future results are also in the present. Keep the present in focus. This is called Gathavyathah, which the spiritual seekers must practice.
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| Future is uncertain Do not worry about the future |
Anapeksha, Suchir Daksha, Udaseeno Gathavyathah… This also needs determination. We must not at all brood about the past, nor must we worry about the future. Why worry? How much ever you may worry about the past, it is not going to come back again. You may worry any amount about what is to happen, but no one can predict the future. If you decide you will do something tomorrow, what is the surety that you will live until tomorrow? Will you be able to live until tomorrow? It is not possible to declare so. Therefore, what is the use of constantly worrying about the future? Future is hidden in the womb of time. It cannot be seen. Why are you worrying so much for that which is hidden in the womb of time and cannot be seen?
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| Total renunciation |
The sixth quality is Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi, giving up of the ego. In all matters we reflect the sense of ego. The basis for ego is attachment. Ego and attachment put together destroy man. Therefore, one should live in an egoless manner. One should not have any attachment. Specifically, you should not have wrong attachments. All these six qualities are sacred qualities. What are these six qualities?
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| No pomp and show |
Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi (renunciant). Who is such a one? At all times, in all actions and always, the one who remains calm is a true renunciant. He must not give any scope for any ostentation. God will be very far away from the one who goes after ostentation and show. We must give up all this exhibitionism. Where there is pomp and show, there Rajo Guna (hyperactive, passion) is present. And with this, all types of desires commence. Publicity is a worldly trend. Do not struggle for worldly pursuits. Worldly things relate to the present only. It does not pertain to all the three periods of time (past, present and future). Therefore, never submit yourself to pomp and show. “Such a person free from ostentation is dear to Me”, said the Lord.
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| Follow these six qualities |
Therefore, if we wish to love God, if we wish to be deserving of God’s Love, we must conduct ourselves according to God’s wish.
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| Devotion is a personal relationship with God, not to be exhibited to others |
Will of God always prevails-Story of Shiva-Parvati and their house
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| God’s Will always prevails!! |
Here is a short story. Once upon a time, Parvati approached Lord Shiva and said, “You move around daily and hardly stay at one place any time. You move around everywhere but we do not have any home that we can call as our own. How can I lead such a life with you? There is no home, not even a shelter with a sheet. If it rains, we do not have any shelter with a sheet (roof). This apart, so many sages come to have your Darshan. If we build a small shed or a house, it would be convenient, both for us as well as for them.” Parvati prayed thus.
Whatever happens is for our good-Story of King and Minister
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| Everything is for your good only… |
First of all we must make an attempt to recognize what God truly likes. What does God not like? Everything is within Him. But to redeem you, God acts as though He likes certain things. He says, “Son, do not talk too much. Do your work well. Think of God”. If all such things are told, is it told for Himself? Whatever God says or does, it is only for your sake. You must first of all recognize this truth. This is for my good. I have told you a number of times, “Whatever happens (you must think), it is for my good only”. I have told you this story:
The husband and his four wives with varied expectations
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| All four types of devotees are dear to the Lord |
Whatever changes may take place we must never forget the fundamental principle. After birth we call the person as a child. After ten years, we refer to him as a boy. After thirty years, we call him a man and after 75 years we address him as grandfather. The person is one, but the difference is in age and in names. That is the fundamental principle. There is only person and he is only the child, the boy, the man and the grandfather.
Assembly of Scholars or Congregation of Cobblers
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| Assembly of Scholars or Congregation of Cobblers? |
Once upon a time, King Janaka was performing a great Yajna (ritual of sacrifice). He convened an assembly of scholars. Being a convention of scholars, he sent invitations to a number of great scholars. Scholars who had achieved great name and fame came to the assembly. Scholars and experts in scriptures; came to the assembly. The intellectuals who could explain and present the Vedas, Scriptures and Puranas also attended the gathering. All were seated in silence.
The Sculptor and the Idol of Rama
The sculptor finds some useless boulder fallen on a mountain. However, the sculptor chisels the boulder and makes it into an idol of Lord Rama. The sculptor transforms the rock fallen on a mountain into an attractive idol of Lord Rama. Now, did the sculptor transform the boulder into an idol of Rama or was there an idol of Rama in the boulder already? Rama was there in the boulder from before! The sculptor only removed all the fat (extra pieces) neatly. Once the fat is removed, the idol of Rama manifests itself.
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| Parents are your God!! |
A sports competition was organized for the children (of Lord Shiva). Lord Shiva declared, “Whoever will go round the three worlds first and return, I will give them the award”. Karthikeya is the one who is pleased very easily. He is Subramanyam, also called Kumaaraswamy. His chariot is the peacock. He boarded the peacock and set out to go round the three worlds. Vinaayaka is very intelligent. He is very accomplished in his intelligence and wisdom. Therefore, (he thought) wherever one may see, it is my father and my mother who is present.
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| Give respect and take respect Image Source |
Once, there lived a rich man. He begot one son. The rich man had an aged father. However, in this modern world, people do not have the quality of respecting their old parents. They prefer to send such old people to a home for the aged. To this end, the husband and the wife thought a lot. They felt that by keeping this old man (the father) in the house, they would have to bear some suffering all the time; so why not make a small room in the verandah and leave him there.
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| Swami Ramamnanda Tirtha Image Source |
The need of the hour is transformation in our feelings. It is of no use to merely change the form, the attire, or our dress. What needs to be changed is our qualities. What is the use of mere change of human beings? The mind needs to be changed.
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| All relationships are ephemeral |
There was a student and there was a guru staying in an Ashram in a nearby forest. The student would go to the guru every morning and return home in the evening. The guru used to tell the student,
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| Should we aspire to return to the prison of this world again and again? |
Having been born, we must get a good name; that will be the true fulfilment for our life. If we still keep on committing mistakes again and again and again, when we would we ever escape (this cycle of birth and death)?
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| The problem is within, not without! Image Source |
There was a rich man. He had no work to do. Just loading, unloading, loading, unloading, loading, unloading! Eat and sit, eat and sit, eat and sit! Because of eating like this, he got the problem of indigestion. A special doctor was called and asked what the root cause of the problem was and what was the medicine for it. The doctor, being an expert, said, “O rich man, you do not need to spend even a naya paisa. You are yourself responsible for getting this indigestion problem. Do you not know the capacity of your own stomach? With excessive desire, you are just stuffing food into yourself with a stick. Therefore, it has led to indigestion. The power of digestion is less and the intake of material is more. That is how indigestion sets in. I will give you a good medicine for this. Listen carefully. You take some rock salt”. These days we get fine powder salt. In early days it used to be available as rock salt (granular salt). “At all times, keep some rock salt in your mouth and keep swallowing its essence continuously”. Anyone suffering from indigestion can use this solution. The rich man thus kept swallowing (the rock salt juice) in this manner. After a while, his problem of indigestion reduced.
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| Who is the stranger at the party? Image Source |
You do not need to search as to where Sat Chit Ananda (Being, Awareness, Bliss) is. This Sat Chit Ananda is there right within you. Since you have not yet recognized it, the ignorance is catching you and causing pain to you. Students, there is a small story to illustrate this.
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| Is detachment so easy? Image Source |
There was a devotee. He had been attending spiritual discourses since 16 years. What were these discourses about? They were the stories of Lord Rama. Everyday, there would be a discourse on the life of Lord Rama. The quality of detachment is found extensively in the story of Lord Rama. His whole life was full of difficulties. To add to it, the Pundit was narrating the story with all the more feelings and emotions. The Pundit laid down the discipline that whosoever attends these spiritual discourses should do so without absenting themselves even for a day. Because, if people miss the discourse, the crowd will appear less! The Pundit wanted the pride of having large crowds attending his discourse. Therefore the Pundit had laid down the rule that unless one attends these discourses everyday without missing even one day, they would not receive the benefits / results of this Paaraayanam.
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| There is nothing bad in My Creation Image Source |
Therefore, being embodiments of Love, you must see others too as embodiments of Love. The five elements are there in every human being. These five elements always yield sacred consequences. It never gives out anything bad. But it is you who are converting it to bad.
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| At times, silence is the best policy! Image Source |
Truth is God. God is purnam (full or complete).
The Child and the Scorpion Bite
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| Where is the problem? Image Source-1 Image Source-2 |
Today we see many people around us with our eyes. The lack of peace (restlessness) is somewhere, the efforts being put in are elsewhere; we are not able to understand anything. We are not giving the medicine appropriate to the disease. When there is pain in the stomach, we put eyetex in the eye. Does this reduce the pain in the stomach in any way? Therefore, we have pain in one place and the medicine given is for something else. The restlessness we face is one thing, but the actions we undertake to relieve ourselves from the same, leads to further restlessness.
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| The smart monkey!! Image Source |
Truly speaking, today’s education is setting students on the wrong path. It is killing the very human nature. It is destroying humanity completely with its “knack” and “crack”. There is small story to illustrate this. You all know it. I have narrated it several times.
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| Control of Senses is important Image Source |
Embodiments of Love, control of senses is the most important ideal for students. Happiness associated with the sense objects is not permanent. This gives you little joy and infinite sorrow. More than the sense organs, the sensory perceptions are very powerful. These are the Shabda(sound), Sparsha (touch), Roopa (vision), Rasa (taste) and Gandha(smell).
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| Walk with an erect posture |
When we look at today’s students walking in the bazaar (market), there seems to be no adequate place for them even on a 40 feet road. Prahalada described this as the Sannipata (disease) of the youth (According to the Ayurvedic science of medicine, Sannipata refers to the imbalance in the body/mind, on account of the aggravation of the three doshas (defects), viz. vata, pitta and kapha). One should walk by fixing one’s gaze on one’s footsteps. That is the right type of walk. Walking happens in one place, the sight goes somewhere else and on account of this, danger sets in and accidents occur. Thus they become targets of unnecessary trouble. By this type of practice we can make our senses equanimous to some extent.
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| Right manner of conversing |
When you are talking to your friend, your sight should be focused towards the friend only and you should not talk looking this way and that way. The sight should not be dispersed in ten different directions. This can be very dangerous for youth. We must try to keep our vision proper and correct. When you talk to somebody, you keep on moving all the limbs of your body. Some people, when they talk or when they give lectures, it is like a big dance; they move the hands and the legs, and it all takes such an ugly form. We must talk without moving any of our limbs. When we keep on making such effort, gradually, on account of habit, the sense organs will start functioning on the right path.
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| Right posture for sitting and studying |
When they sit, they sit like an old man of 60 or 70 years. This is not good. If the spinal column bends then old age sets in very fast. When you walk, you must walk like a straight stick. Even when you sit, you must sit like a straight stick (back must be straight like a stick). You should not bend. Only when we practice like this physically, the sense organs will come under our control gradually.
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| Significance of the Sushumna Naadi Image Source |
For students, this is very essential. At the time of studying, we must sit in the proper posture and study; because, this body has a special and unique feature. For animals and beasts, the spinal column is bent. But the spinal column in human beings is straight. The path from the Moolaadhaarato the Sahasraara is a straight path. The right type of thoughts will flow when seated in the right posture. If the spinal column is bent, the thoughts will not flow in the right manner. In every human being there are 101 nerves. Among them, one nerve stands apart. This nerve is associated with the Sahasraara. This will be helpful to the people who strictly follow the spiritual path with all discipline. Thus, this nerve is very important. It is called the Sushumna Naadi. In the principle of the Ida, Pingla and the Sushumna, when they (Idaand Pingla) meet the Sushumna at the intersection of the eyebrows, they give a unique power of concentration.
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| Hold on…Never give up |
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| Plight of modern students! |
Adhika Baashinchu Sooratvam Adhikamayye (2)
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| God will make you mad after Him! |
Picchulupogattu Picchipattinchunu
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| Forgetting God is forgetting One’s Self |
Intilone Jyoti Veluguchunundaga (2)
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| We take nothing when we leave this world! |
Talli Garbhamunundi Janminchunappudu
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| Satva alone can lead to Devotion |
Taamasambu Vidakaa Tatvambu Yettugalgu
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| Can one be always full of equanimity? |
Sakala Vidyalu Nerchi (2)
This is the 9th stanza of the Bhaja Govindam stotram, which is a bouquet of 31 stanzas. Of them, 13 stanzas are composed by Sri Adi Sankaracharya, while the rest are attributed to his disciples.
Glory to Lord Krishna, Rama; Glory to Lord Krishna, Radha; Glory to Lord Krishna, the little One; Glory to Lord Krishna
Radha the beloved of Lord Krishna (also known as Shyam) and Lord Krishna
Slow Tempo
Sing the glory of the valorous Ganesha
Lord Shiva, the consort of Bhavani (Goddess Parvati)
Slow Tempo
Slow Tempo
The rules of grammar (secular knowledge) are not going to protect you
Slow Tempo
Gopaal (the protector of cows / animals), O Gopaal, the bearer of the mountain Govardhana
Slow Tempo
Brahma – the Infinite
Slow Tempo
The Lord of Meera (the saint poet), O the resident of the heart
Slow Tempo
Chitta (heart / being / awareness)
Slow Tempo
Slow Tempo
Glory to Radha, Glory to Madhava, ???
Slow Tempo
O Radhe Gopaala – the one who steals the heart of the Gopis (Manohara is the one who steals the hearts)
Slow Tempo
Slow Tempo
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| Keep the tongue under check |
The tongue has 3 lakh taste buds. Overcome by taste, getting addicted to different types of tastes, eating all these tasty items, experiencing the happiness thus, we are losing the power of the tongue. Not just eating tasty food items; we also use the tongue to utter unpleasant words. We cause pain to others’ hearts. We wound others’ hearts by using harsh words. Therefore, on account of the tongue, our life span reduces further. In the same manner, every sense organ loses its power on account of excessive use, and in turn we lose our very life.
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| Control the Tongue You can control the whole world |
Among all sense organs, the most important one is the tongue. If we can control just the tongue, all other sense organs will easily come under our control. The Kathopanishad compares the senses to a horse. If we take the horse as an example, we will be able to understand the relationship, the bond and the commonalities between the tongue and the horse.
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| Eyes and Tongue can be closed Image Source |
Among the senses, two are most important: the eyes and the tongue. Because of their exceptional importance, the Lord has provided them with the means of restraining their activities. The Lord points out: “You silly man! Take note that I have provided natural means for closing the eyes and the mouth.” If you do not want to see anything undesirable, you can close your eyes with the eyelids. The ears and the nose have no such devices for closing them. The mouth has lips which can seal the tongue.
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| Three types of silence Image Source |
The ancients practiced three kinds of silent penance to control speech. The first was Vaak-mounam (silence of the tongue), the second one was Mano-mounam (silence of the mind) and the third was Mahaa-mounam (Supreme Silence).
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| Check what you eat Image Source |
The tongue can do two jobs, and not one. And both the jobs that God has given to the tongue are big jobs. Just think for some time about the first job – tasting! If a thing tastes bad, you do not like to eat it. Of course, if you are ill, you have to take the drug, even though the tongue says that it tastes bad. So, you should not spit out all things that taste bitter. Some of those things help to cure your illness quickly and well. Remember another fact also; if a thing tastes nice, it may not be good for your health. The tongue tells you that a thing tastes bitter or sweet, or saltish. It cannot tell you whether a thing is good for you or bad. So, you must care not to eat too much and spoil your health. When the body is ill, the mind too becomes weak, and the brain cannot work properly.
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| Conversing and Talking |
When you are talking to your friend, your sight should be focused towards the friend only and you should not talk looking this way and that way. The sight should not be dispersed in ten different directions. This can be very dangerous for youth. We must try to keep our vision proper and correct. When you talk to somebody, you keep on moving all the limbs of your body. Some people, when they talk or when they give lectures, it is like a big dance; they move the hands and the legs, and it all takes such an ugly form. We must talk without moving any of our limbs. When we keep on making such effort, gradually, on account of habit, the sense organs will start functioning on the right path.
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| Use the tongue for your good |
Never use foul words against another. Such words should not rise from your tongue, nor should they enter the ear of the others. Remember that there is God inside your heart, as well as in the hearts of all the rest. He hears and sees all things. Do you not say, “My head, my hands, my eye, my mind, my idea.” Now, who is this “I”, that owns the body, the mind, the brain? That “I” is the spark of God that is in you. That spark is in every one. So, when you use harsh, cruel, angry, foul words against another, the God in you and the God in the other person is hurt. The tongue is a tool, as I said. You can harm yourself and harm others with it. So, be very careful; use it only for your good and for the good of others. If you use it for talking kind words, for repeating the Name of God or singing His Glory, or praying to Him, then it is put to the best use.
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| Do not misuse the tongue |
Time is God. Time waste is life waste. Don’t waste time. Boy and girls of today are wasting their time excessively. They are misusing their time through meaningless gossip. They are not using any good words. They are not giving any scope for good thoughts. What are their games, their songs?
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| Guru Nanak started the concept of Collective Singing Image Source |
We must make fulfilling use of our time by remembering, repeating and singing the sweet name of the Lord. Why were Bhajans started? Earlier, it was Guru Nanak who started this concept of collective singing. All voices have to be united, and as one single voice, the Lord has to be attracted (drawn closer). Bhajans have been started to invoke this unity in diversity. It is not one individual who invokes God, all the people singing in chorus are invoking God.
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| God can be bound by His devotee Image Source |
Some of you may know how elephants are caught and tamed. In the forests, the elephant is a wild beast, moving in herds and charging anyone who dares to go near. Such a mighty elephant is trapped, roped, and tied to a strong post, so that it cannot run away; it is made so tame that it stands on a small round three-legged stool, in the circus tent; or drags huge logs of timber, at the bidding of the mahout!
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| Sir Philip Sydney Image Source |
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| Tongue has no desire to wander |
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| Tongue managing amidst sharp teeth |
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| Tongue is absolutely selfless Image Source |
You may also wish to read the following three posts relating to the tongue and the power of speech posted earlier.
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| Control the Tongue |
Ancients followed a number of disciplines in order to make proper use of the sense organs. We must not give everything that the tongue asks for. If you keep yielding to everything that the tongue asks for, eventually it will be prepared to swallow you only. Therefore, to exercise restraint on taste, the ancients adopted and followed certain rules and regulations. That has been called the Chaaturmaasa Vratam (the four month vow). The Chaaturmaasa Vratam has originated with the purpose of giving proper training to the tongue for four months, without giving it all that it asks for and thus leading it along the right path.
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| Giving in to Desires! Image Source |
However, unfortunately, in this Kali age, the Chaaturmasa Vratam has become a big show and almost a feast! They (renunciants) want tasty food items everyday. They try to source these food items from the villages. Every day, one devotee must offer such food to them. They enjoy this in the guise of Bhiksha (alms). With change in time, even the sacred feelings are led along the unsacred path. The renunciants of today are unable to recognize the truth that all such vows are initiated basically to exercise restraint over the tendencies of the tongue. How can you attain Divinity if you do not control your senses in this manner?
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| Sins committed by the Tongue Image Source |
The tongue commits four types of sins. One is to speak untruth, second is to complain about others, third is to criticize others and the fourth is excessive talk. It is because of these four (sins) that lack of peace is growing in mankind. Ill health also sets in. Therefore, for mankind – Satyam Vada (speak the truth) and Dharmam Chara (follow righteousness). We must make an attempt to speak the truth only. At certain times, it may be dangerous to speak the truth. At such times, avoid truth and avoid untruth also. Only when you practice such a path, you will be able to promote humanity in society.
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| Undesirable gossip is bad! Image Source |
We must not enter into unnecessary matters. This is the weakness in mankind today. Even a person sitting in some corner who cannot see properly or hear properly; when he comes across two people meeting over there, keeps asking, “what are they talking, what are they talking”? Whatever they may be talking, what is it to you? Why should you enter into this?
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| Tongue can be used for Blessing or Cursing |
With speech you can perform a very noble and significant task and you can also perform a very heinous task. This very speech confers blessings on others and also abuses others. That is why Jayadeva considered this tongue as very great.
03-What are the examples that Bhagawan gives while condemning undesirable gossip that we engage in?
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| Glory of the Tongue |
Jihvagre Vartate Lakshmi
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| Most important among all Sense Organs Image Source |
Among all the sense organs, the tongue is most dangerous. Each sense organ is equipped with one type of power. But the tongue has two types of powers. One is talking and the other is tasting. That is why Jayadeva (a Sanskrit poet circa 1200 AD, most known for his composition, the epic poem Gita Govinda, which depicts the divine love of Krishna and Radha) described the tongue in so many different ways:
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| Tongue controls the entry of food Image Source |
The tongue is one of sacrifice. When it tastes sweet delicacies, it sends them to the stomach. But if the item is bitter, the tongue at once spits it out. Not merely that, the tongue conducts itself in the most respectful manner. It does not step out of its house (mouth) under any circumstances. It does all its work without crossing its limits. While all other senses do only one work each, the tongue alone has the capacity to do two types of work, namely, to taste and to speak. That is why one has to exercise proper control over the tongue lest it should indulge in sinful activities like talking ill of others. In times of anger, observe silence. Our ancients taught: Talk less, work more. The lesser you talk, the purer your heart remains.
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| Soft tongue amidst the sharp teeth Image Source |
(Vibheeshana says) When Hanuman stepped into Lanka for the first time, I appealed to him, “Hanuman, I am living just like the tongue amidst the (sharp) teeth. Lanka is full of great demons. I am living like the soft tongue amidst them. How long have I to live like this? When will I receive Sri Rama’s Grace? When will I get the proximity of that great personality? Every minute, I have been waiting for that moment.
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| Strike against the Tongue Image Source |
Once the sense organs of the body got together and made an effort to go on a strike. (They were deliberating thus) We are acquiring all the food and eatables. The food acquired thus is being offered by us to the tongue. The tongue is experiencing the sweetness and all the tastes. It is not helping us in any way. We earn (all the food) and the tongue experiences (all the joy). This is not correct. The sense organs that knew the inner feelings, took to the wrong path.
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| Spiritual journey of the tongue |
The fundamental among all the sense organs is the power of speech. If one can conquer one’s power of speech, it would amount to conquering all the sense organs. Eating and talking are the tasks that take place through the tongue. These are also called as Aahara (food) and Vyahara (habit). The human being who gains victory over these two, the principle of such a human being merges in the Divine principle of mind. From then on, the (external) speech will come to a standstill and the mind will start speaking. One would have to awaken the Buddhi (intellect) to shut the mouth of the mind. Effort has to be put to gradually advise the intellect and turn it towards the Atma. True Sadhana consists in merging the speech (word) in the mind, the mind in the intellect, and the intellect in the Atma. In spite of having such a good and royal pathway, human beings, falling prey to the worldly comforts and temptations and forgetting this sacred path, are taking to the sorrowful path of the senses.
08-What is the spiritual journey that the tongue is required to go through?
This section of the blog presents a message of Bhagawan Baba every week. Mostly, it is the form of a question that is answered by Bhagawan, giving us the correct understanding and interpretation of a concept or a term or a practice. So watch out every Sunday for a special message from Bhagawan Baba that could serve as your driving force throughout the week. Wish you a happy week!!
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| Mind is responsible for both Bondage and Liberation |
The mind is very noble. Mana Eva Manushyaanaam Kaaranam Bandha Mokshayoho – Mind alone is responsible either for man’s bondage or for his liberation. So, how can you condemn the mind as bad, when it is capable of leading you to Moksha (supreme goal of liberation)? It can lead you to bondage and it can also set you free from bondage. We need to recognize the right method to use the mind. We may have a knife in the hand. The knife can be used to cut fruits, vegetables or any knot in a rope. However, in a fit of anger, we could also use it to cut the throat. But is this the fault of the knife? No. No. It is the defect in the manner in which we use the knife. The mind is also similar. If used along the right path, it will take us to the most sacred (elevated) place. The mind is also referred to as delusion.
01 July to 07 July 2013
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| Four manifestations of the mind |
The mind itself assumes subtle forms in the name of Antha Karana (inner instruments). It dons four roles, namely: Manas (mind), Buddhi (intellect), Chitta(memory), and Ahamkara (ego). Buddhi, Chitta and Ahamkara are the subtle forms of the mind itself. The mind takes on a particular name when it performs a particular function; just as the same Brahmin individual is called a priest (pujaribrahmin) when he performs worship in a temple, a cook (brahmin cook) when he cooks in the kitchen, a teacher (aadhyapikabrahmin) when he teaches students, and an astrologer (panchaanga brahmin) when he interprets the almanac (panchaanga). Though the Brahmin individual is the same; based on the profession he takes up, he assumes such different names.
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| What is true listening? |
At the time of king Bhojaraja, a sculptor brought three idols and presented them to the king. All the three idols were made by the sculptor in such a way that they looked exactly identical. All were beautiful. The king summoned the Minister. He asked the Minister to decide which among these was the best “first class”; deserving enough to be given a prize.
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| What is true freedom? |
Some students who consider themselves to be very clever and smart, try to argue thus, Look at the birds. They are having full freedom to eat what they want, to make friendship with anyone they want and to fly or wander as they wish. Cattle and beasts also are enjoying their own freedom. When birds, cattle and beasts enjoy their freedom, is it not necessary for man to enjoy his freedom? True, you too can enjoy freedom. But, what kind of freedom do the cattle enjoy? They enjoy cattle freedom. What kind of freedom do the animals enjoy? They enjoy animal freedom. You are a human, so you can enjoy human freedom. There is nothing wrong in that. But being a human; is it not wrong of you to enjoy animal freedom?
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| Divert mind towards good thoughts |
There was a preacher of Christian religion by name Thomas. He used to go to every village and propagate his religion. One day, he boarded a horse carriage and was travelling to a village. On the way, there came a (railway) level crossing. The horse was running very well; there was no problem in its movement. But as they approached the level crossing, the driver took the stick and started beating the horse severely. As Thomas was a preacher of religion, he had faith in compassion as the main message of Jesus. He asked the driver, “Sir, why are you troubling this horse that is running so well?”
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| The ten senses need to be kept under restraint |
The senses should be experienced by putting them to right use as ordained by God. If we do not put them to right use, we will have to suffer from lack of peace.
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| Brahmacharyam means being in Brahman |
Brahmacharyam is interpreted in many ways by the people of the world. One meaning is remaining unmarried. This is not the correct meaning. This meaning is only from the worldly point of view. The true literal meaning of the term is “Moving in Brahman.” Brahmacharya means ceaseless contemplation of God. “Charya” means moving or treading. Brahmacharya means “moving in Brahman”, or “treading along the path of Brahman”. Brahmacharyashould not be imagined to be related to the physical losses, difficulties, sorrow or worry. Mere bachelorhood is not Brahmacharyam. Such a person may be called as just “unmarried”.
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| Life is a dream, realize it! |
Life is a dream, realize it. Which is the dream? The entire life is a dream. Now in this morning, all of you are seated and are listening to Swami’s Discourse. This is not a dream. We are seeing this with our eyes, we are hearing with our ears, we are thinking with our mind and our hearts are thus melting. We consider all these changes as direct evidence. But how long can this be direct evidence? At night, when we sleep after eating, all this direct evidence vanishes. In the dream, many kinds of happiness and sorrow surface. But how long do these joys and sorrows remain? Only so long as the dream is there; as soon as we enter the waking state, all that becomes false.
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| God has bestowed all Gifts on mankind |
God has no selfishness and self-interest. He does not expect any benefit in return from you. God has graced the world of human beings with all gifts to remove the restlessness and lack of peace that is engulfing it. This cannot be accomplished by any human being.
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| Adhyaatma Vidya Vidyaanaam |
Chaduvullaniyu Chadivi Chaala Vivekiayi
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| Why sing Bhajans? |
Why do we sing Bhajans? Enquire clearly. It is because we remember the name of God so nicely. The name gets merged into the sound waves in the air. Getting mixed with the sound waves, it destroys all the bad feelings and aspects present in it. It is to transform all the bad into good, that we sing God’s Bhajans.
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| God needs your heart! |
Body is like a water bubble; mind is like a mad monkey; Don’t follow the mind, don’t follow the body, follow the conscience. We must follow the Atmic principle (principle of the Self). That is the “heart”. It is to offer this “heart” to God, that we must prepare ourselves as aspirants of God and not to offer some fruit, flower or leaf. You do not have anything with you that is not with God. Everything is there with God. There may be so many things with God; no one knows. There are so many valuable things with God. But to offer some cheap fruit and flowers that dry and fade away – is this the tax to be offered to God?
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| True Solitude!! |
God is the very embodiment of Truth. Truth is God. We must take the help of this Truth. Truth is our very form (nature). It is not newly bought by us. However, when we sit in solitude (Ekaantam), this Truth will manifest to us. But what is the meaning of this solitude?
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| Why is every limb of God compared to a Lotus? Image Source |
Tulasidas has also said, “Hasta Kamalam (Lotus Hands), Paada Kamalam (Lotus Feet), Mukha Kamalam (Lotus Face), Netra Kamalam (Lotus Eyes). All limbs of God are like the lotus. Why have they been compared to a lotus?
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| What is the true spirit of Narayan Seva? |
When you have so much enthusiasm (to serve), I too feel enthusiastic to give you a small piece of advice. You may not have the strength to procure 10 or 20 sares (a measure of grain) of rice at one point of time, so as to get it cooked for feeding the poor; or conditions may not be very favourable for you (financially).
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| Why should we clap while singing Bhajans? |
Symbolically, we are sitting below the tree of love. All bad qualities in the form of birds are perched on this tree. What do you do to drive away birds sitting on a tree? You need to sit under the tree and clap loudly to drive away the birds. In the same way to drive away the birds of bad qualities on the tree of love, we need to clap loudly and sing Bhajans – chanting Rama, Krishna, Govinda and Narayana.
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| Why do chant Shanti three times? |
Why do we chant three times – Shanti, Shanti, Shanti?
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| Who is a true Sadhaka? |
The true Sadhaka (spiritual seeker) is one who seeks to establish an interdependent relationship (between oneself and God). In Western countries, many people undertake Sadhana (spiritual exercise) that keeps changing from second to second. Truly, a Sadhaka must have an (Chalinchani manasu) unwavering mind and a vision free from delusion (Brahminchani drushti). But today you have one Guru, tomorrow you have another Guru and the day after tomorrow, yet another Guru. A Guru for 3 days, a Guru for 4 days; is the Guru a bushcoat to be changed everyday?
When one has happiness, joy and profit; one hangs some 10 photos of Swami on the wall. When there is difficulty, when one’s desire is not fulfilled, or when there is loss, even the photos that are hanging are turned (in the) reverse (direction). Is this the characteristic of devotion? It is only the characteristic of bad quality and not of good feelings. It is necessary to recognize this. This is only Guna Jeevitam (life based on our Gunas) and not Manas Jeevitam (life based on a pure mind). If we entertain such feelings, we will never get salvation at any point of time. The one who desires salvation must be ready to bear any type of difficulty.
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| Unity in Diversity Image Source |
There are so many educated and intellectual people in this world. There are so many intellectuals who fragment the one into many, but there are no intellectuals who are able to unite many into the one. Therefore, an intellectual fragments the one into many but an individual of character unites many into the one. This is unity in diversity. We need to recognize this unity in diversity. The names and forms of the physical body may be many but the Truth in the form of the Divine, is the same in all the beings.
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| Develop Vishaala Bhavam Image Source |
Today, students are losing the broadmindedness in their feelings. It is only I and mine. Then what will be the fate of the other people? All are children of God. All are brothers. Without any conflict, we should live in camaraderie and progress together. We must develop forbearance and feeling of brotherhood. Unity is very important. Practice of Unity is the path to progress. It is not just about saying, Hello, Hello. We should work together. It is said that by working together, we will earn merit.
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| Let us live and grow together Image Source |
Bharatiya culture is the sacred culture that wishes us to recognize unity in diversity and thus fulfill the purpose of humanity. However, today, the opposite path is being followed. The one is being fragmented into many. There is an increase, day by day, in the number of educated and intellectual people who fragment the one into many; but there is a drop in the (number of) people who recognize and practice unity in diversity.
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| Change your Vision Image Source |
God is one. The goal is one and the Truth is one. But we need to change our vision (Drushti). There is no need to change the creation (Srushti). Creation is God’s creation only. Change your vision. Develop the vision of Love towards all. There is no greater vision than the vision of Love.
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| Unity is Wisdom Image Source |
The same Atma (Soul) is present in all the five elements. There are no many Atmas. Ekaatma Sarvabhootaantaraatma (The same one Self is the inner Self in all the beings). Humanity is following all foolish approaches because of fragmenting the unity into diversity. We must recognize the Unity in Diversity. That is the true path of the Knower (wise one). But dividing the one into the many is a quality of ignorance. We should not divide the one into the many. By doing so, the power in each one reduces. To understand the Divine sacred Atmic principle, it is enough to follow (the path of) unity.
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| Anoraneeyaan Mahatomaheeyaan Image Source |
The same principle of the Atman exists in all. Wisdom is recognizing this oneness in all the diversity. Perceiving the oneness as diverse is ignorance. Today there are many intellectuals who fragment unity into multiplicity. However, noble souls who see unity in diversity are just one or two. Therefore, we must make an effort to recognize the unity in all this diversity. Unity in diversity is inherent in every small work that we undertake. How is this? Science students know this very well. The atom is very minute. There is no matter without atoms. The atom exists in all matter. You are recognizing the differences in the name and form of the matter but the atom in all is one and the same. This is referred to as “Anoraneeyaan Mahatomaheeyaan” (the smallest among the small and the biggest among the big) in the Vedanta. Therefore, if we are able to understand this principle of the atom, then we will be able to understand everything.
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| Beings are many, Breath is one |
Prapancha – what do we mean by Prapancha? The blossoming of the five elements is Prapancha (world). Therefore, in this world, we enable the blossoming of the five elements. We are enabling the blossoming of the five elements but we are not unifying them. We are instead fragmenting them. We are fragmenting unity into multiplicity. That is why this world is growing so large. But the main goal of mankind is to perceive the unity in diversity. We should have full faith in the (principle of) unity (that exists) in everyone.
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| Focus on Charioteer Image Source |
How can we see Unity in Diversity? Birth and death are common to all, be it a millionaire or a pauper. The millionaire has not dropped from the heaven nor has the pauper emerged from the earth. Both are born from the womb of the mother. This is common to all. Hunger and thirst are also common to all. The millionaire also feels hungry and the pauper also feels hungry. The millionaire will have rich and luxurious food whereas the pauper will have simple food. The food may be different but hunger is one. This is Oneness. Go anywhere in the world and see. You will find that birth and death, hunger and thirst are common to all.
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| Cows are many, Milk is one Image Source |
All countries together make a mansion. Each country is like a room. Therefore, do not divide. It is because of this division that mankind is getting ruined. You should not make a division among Sai devotees too. All should remain united. Humanity is one race and Mankind is one family. There may be differences in colour, name and form. But Divinity is one.
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| Jewels are many, Gold is one Image Source |
All the worlds belong to God. Names and forms may be separate but the Divine power is one, wherever you may go. Even among human beings, names and forms are separate, but the principle of the Atma is one. In the morning, one spiritual seeker asked, “Swami, there are crores of devotees in this world. How can there be only one Atma in all of them? Would it not depend on each one’s deservedness?” To that, I replied thus. When we decorate (a hall), we use so many small (light) bulbs for decoration. Each bulb is different from the other. Their forms (shapes) may be different. Their capacities (voltage) may be different. But is it not the same (principle of) current (flowing) in all?
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| Reflections are many, Sun is one Image Source |
One small illustration: There is a mud pot, a wooden vessel, a copper vessel, a brass vessel, a silver vessel and a gold vessel. When all these vessels are filled with water, the same sun gets reflected and shines in all these vessels. How can you decide which sun in which vessel is good and which sun in which vessel is bad? Therefore, you may put a value only to the vessel. You may say, “This mud pot is very small, it is cheap. This gold vessel is very costly”. Thus you may place a value on the vessel but how can you place a value on the reflection of the sun therein? How can you differentiate and decide that one sun is good and the other is bad?
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| The Brahma Sutra Image Source |
There is only One. But it subsumes all diversity within it. Look, here is a flower garland. There are many flowers in it. Though there are many flowers (in the garland), there is only thread (binding the flowers together). This was a thread yesterday, it is a thread today and will continue to be a thread even tomorrow. The flowers were buds yesterday, today they have blossomed and tomorrow they will wither away.
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| Bulbs are many, Current is one Image Source |
The Bharatiyas are wasting their time debating over the concepts of Dvaita (Dualism), Vishishtaadvaita(Qualified Non-dualism) and Advaita(Non-dualism). Eventually, all these three are one and the same. Advaita is like sugar juice, Vishishtaadvaita is like sugar, whereas Dvaita is like the one who eats the sugar. Mysorepak, Gulabjamoon, Barfi, Palkova, Mithai, Kheer, Biscuit – the sugar in all these sweet savories is one. The name and form are different. In the same way, in this world, all the nations, the names and the forms appear to be different. But the Divinity in all is one and the same. Ekaatma Sarva Bhootaantaratma (The same One Self is the inner Self in all).
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| Samyak Drushti Right Vision |
Immortality is true Nirvana. For this Nirvana, the appropriate path at the very first instance is Samyak Drushti(right/good vision). The eyes have been given to use them along the right path, have the vision of true humanity and propagate the Truth. Whatever you see, see it as God. The vision should be full of Love. This vision of Love will lead man along the right path. All are One, be alike to everyone. Therefore, we must develop Samyak Drushti. This will help us achieve the principle of Oneness. It will help us recognize Divinity in everybody.
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| Tat Tvam Asi Image Source |
So we have to strengthen the feeling of unity. There is only One (principle) in whatever we see. That is Divinity. We need some path to recognize this Divinity. We need to take up some tasks and we need to undertake some Sadhana. We can accomplish anything, only through spiritual practice. As we keep singing repeatedly, we learn to sing a song. As we keep chewing continuously, even the neem tree fruits, start tasting sweet. Similarly, you keep remembering God always and you will surely understand Divinity. We must think of God incessantly.
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| One is Hero. World is Zero Image Source |
You may see many names and forms in this ephemeral and transient world. But, Eka Prabhu Ka Aneka Naam – There are many names for the One God. Ekoham Bahusyaam – The One has manifested as the Many. With His own Will He (the One) is being seen in many forms. Being One, He created Himself into many. To teach mankind unity in this diversity, the three paths of Karma (Action), Upaasana(Bhakti or devotion) and Jnaana (wisdom) were initiated. Work, Worship and Wisdom. Through these paths or approaches, they (people) tried to recognize the unity in diversity. But there is only One. Ekam Sath Viprah Bahuda Vadanti – The Truth is One, but the scholars refer to it in many ways.
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| The Five Fundamental Human Values |
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| Sathya Harischandra – The King of Truth Image Source |
Rama is the very embodiment of Truth. But we utter all lies. We perform the Satyanarayana Vratam once a year; that is all. That is not right. Satatam Satyam. We must speak the truth always. Sarvada Sarvakaleshu Sarvatra Harichintanam. We must think of God always, at all times and everywhere. We must at least make an effort to speak the truth. But we are not doing that. The moment we open our mouth, it is lies. Whatever we say, it is lies. It is not even possible to know what the truth is.
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| Dharmaja – The embodiment of Dharma Image Source |
Forty-two years after the (Kurukshetra) war, Arjuna was returning from Dwaraka. In what situation was he returning? The entire clan of Yadavas was embroiled in squabble, as a result of which Krishna had left His mortal coil, and Balarama and the Yadavas all perished. Knowing that Arjuna is coming, Kunti got up and sat down. No one has ever suffered as much as the Pandavas did. Since they experienced so many difficulties, they were able to stay so close to God. Kunti got up and awaited the arrival of Arjuna. Dharmaja went forward and received Arjuna. He asked, “Arjuna, how is our Krishna? Our friend, our brother-in-law, our relative; how is He?” Arjuna could not utter any words. “Krishna is no more!”, saying so, Arjuna collapsed. Hearing this news, Dharmaja went to his mother and said, “Mother, Krishna has passed away”. “Did Krishna pass away? Did Krishna pass away?”, she uttered thus thrice and gave up her life. The body (of Kunti) that gave up its life, fell on the lap of Dharmaja.
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| Draupadi protects Aswathama – Epitome of Forbearance Image Source |
After the gruesome murder of the Upa-Pandavas (children of the Pandavas), Arjuna tracked Aswathama (the perpetrator of the atrocity) and dragged him (before Draupadi). Draupadi, the consort of the Pandavas, fell at the feet of the wicked Aswathama and enquired:
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| Lord Buddha – Personification of Non-violence Image Source |
Once upon a time Buddha set out to seek alms. He neared the village that he was supposed to go to. All the residents of that village had great faith in Buddha. However, as he reached close to the village, some rowdies (ruffians), taking to the wrong path, started abusing him in all ways. Instead of travelling further, Buddha sat there on a rock. He asked (the ruffians), “Children, what is the pleasure that you get in abusing me?” Not giving any reply to him, they started abusing him in a more heinous manner. Buddha sat there stating that they could abuse him as long as they wanted.
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| Embodiment of Love! |
A small example. Though I do not want to remind you about this, but even a small boy, having given a promise to Swami, has been keeping up his promise to this day. The boy who spoke first, hails from Simla. I am seeing that boy now. He was so young ten years back. He was studying in Primary School. This and the other boy are brothers.
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| Value Heroes |
This post presents a compilation of various aspects of “Anger” expounded by Bhagawan in His Discourses. For ease of reading and understanding, it is presented in four parts. Part-I of the post starts with an introduction to anger and other related vices. It presents the need to eliminate anger from oneself. Part-II covers the various tips given by Bhagawan to control one’s anger. Part-III deals with anger in connection to the relationship between children and parents. The post ends with Part-IV that explains how God is beyond anger. Swami gives His own example to illustrate the need for patience and equanimity. He jokingly states that He does express anger at times, but it is nothing more than a modulation of voice with the pure intention of saving His devotees. The five audio excerpts in Part-IV of this posting have been taken from the Discourses delivered by Bhagawan in the years 1992, 2000, 2004 and 2008.
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| Swami never gets angry He only pretends to get angry |
God alone is transcendental and He transcends all qualities (attributes). Though it may appear to us that He is angry, it is not truly anger. God pretends to be angry in order to bring back the devotee onto the right path. The devotees will not pay heed if harsh words are not used. That is why He puts up the drama of being angry, to bring the devotees onto the right path. It is all only a drama and not reality. God has no anger. He does not give any scope for anger at all.
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| At times He hisses only to protect devotees! |
Swami’s patience is such that, mountains may move, but His heart will not move. My heart is so full of peace! But now and then I do hiss! In order to correct some children, I use such (harsh) words. If not, these children will not listen to Me. If I say, “Son, Gold (meaning dear one), please sit down, please sit down”, no one will listen. If I say, “Hey, sit down”, then they will listen. The voice has to be modulated. With this voice modulation, devotees will be protected (by God).
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| Swami is always smiling!! |
You all must have known all these days. I keep smiling always, whatever anybody may speak about Me, or against Me. I never get angry with anybody. Even if I do, it is merely acting. In fact many students themselves say, “Swami though we vex You, though we disregard what You say, yet You are always smiling. It is so strange. From where have You got so much patience?”
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| Swami – Perfect example of equanimity |
Students, I am the right ideal for Myself. My life is My message. Many people admonish Me. Many people praise Me. I do not get bloated (elated) with praise nor do I get deflated (depressed) with abuse. I do not worry about that which is not in Me. I do not need to worry about anything that is told, when it (blemish) is not in Me. When they keep saying things which are not in Me, why should I get worried? Here is a small example for this:
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| Pandavas were saved by Krishna through Voice Modulation Image Source |
Son, come here – if called like this (in a soft tone), it amounts to calling in a loving way. When told, Son come here (in a harsh and loud voice), it appears to be full of anger. This is just change in the tone of the voice and nothing to do with the reality. This is what Durvasa came to be known for. Durvasa had no anger as such. But people in the world think that Durvasa was a person full of anger.
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| Parents only appear to be Angry Image Source |
In some circumstances it may appear as though the parents are angry with their children and have beaten them up. But parents can never get angry with their children. It only appears as anger based on the situation and circumstance, but it is truly not anger. They show anger only for the progress of their children. Therefore, we should never assume that parents are angry (with their children). Parents who do have anger are no parents at all. Parents have lot of love in them. It is their limitless love, which nurtures their children.
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| Parent-Children Relationship is only that of Love |
Differences and wrong actions if at all, are noticed among sons and not among the parents. Based upon the situation and circumstance, parents may get angry, but that does not last for a full life time. Therefore, we never have parents who get angry on their children, but we have many children who get angry with their parents. However, that too is only for a short time. When they see their parents feeling very bad, they too feel bad.
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| Never get angry with your parents |
Your anger is your enemy. Your happiness is indeed heaven. Therefore, we must always be happy and never think of being angry. The one full of anger will not be successful in any task. We must take good care of our parents who never truly get angry with us. We must obey their command. Vinayaka is the one who always obeyed his parents’ command. He is said to have no leader above him.
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| Draupadi’s Forbearance was an ideal for all |
After the gruesome murder of the Upa-Pandavas (children of the Pandavas), Arjuna tracked Aswathama (the perpetrator of the atrocity) and dragged him (before Draupadi). Draupadi, the consort of the Pandavas, fell at the feet of the wicked Aswathama and enquired:
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| Draupadi protects Aswathama who killed her children! Image Source |
Epics like the Mahabharata and the Bhagavatha and other Bharatiya scriptures expound the spiritual realities. Though Bhima and Arjuna (two brothers among the Pandavas) were seethed with anger and revenge when their sons were killed by Aswathama (son of Dronacharya – the preceptor of the Pandavas and Kauravas), Draupadi pacified them. Though she was grief-stricken at the loss of her children, she maintained a perfect state of equanimity. When Arjuna, in a fit of anger, was ready to kill Aswathama, she quoted the scriptures and changed his mind.
04-Draupadi advised Arjuna about the eight ways of killing, which have been declared to be unrighteous by the scriptures. List these eight ways of killing.
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| Do not get angry at criticism |
Whenever there arises in you bad qualities like anger, jealousy or hatred, exercise restraint on it immediately, saying Chhee (an expression to indicate one’s disgust), these animal qualities must not arise in me. Here is a good example to illustrate this. Let us say somebody criticizes you and you get angry. Do not react as soon as you get angry. Enquire whether the defects pointed out by them exist in you or not. (Ask yourself) If those defects do exist in me, then is it not my mistake to get angry with them? And if the defects pointed out by them do not exist in me, then why should I get angry with them? When we enquire in this manner, the anger in us will subside.
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| Sing a song matching the pitch of the flowing water This will dissolve your anger! |
We may get angry at times. There may be turbulence in our heart. But we must make an effort to pacify these disturbances. Just because you get angry, you must not resort to any action immediately.
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| Walk briskly and your anger comes down! |
We must never give in to anger, hatred, jealousy or pride, when it arises in us. At such times, we must sit silently for few minutes. When we get angry, we must not beat, scold or shout at anyone just as we like. To put this into practice, the first thing we must do is to leave that place (location where we get angry). Walk for a furlong (one eight of a mile) or a mile in the open space outside where there is free flow of clean air. When you walk speedily, the blood circulation in the body also speeds up and brings down the anger in you.
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| Drink a glass of cold water to cool your anger! |
Purva Mimamsa (Purva Mimamsa, written by Rishi Jaimini is one of the most important ancient Hindu philosophical texts. It forms the basis of Mimamsa, the earliest of the six orthodox schools (darshanas) of Indian philosophy) also teaches us the path of forbearance. The type of duty that man must engage himself in, at different points of time and the manner in which he should face the obstacles that come in the way of discharging his duty, is also taught by Purva Mimamsa. You may become sorrowful. But do not think too much about the sorrow. Think about happiness and the sorrow will go away. Such tips are also taught by it (Purva Mimamsa).
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| Blood gets heated up owing to anger Image Source |
Do not, however, stay near the person who has provoked your anger, because there is no limit to what anger may lead you to. Owing to anger and agitation the blood gets heated up. It takes three months for the blood to cool down. Within that period, the nerves become weaker and even the blood cells get destroyed. Weakness is aggravated and the memory power is reduced. Old age sets in prematurely.
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| Virtue cannot be practiced in vacuum Image Source |
Our ancients have given us sacred paths of yoga and dhyana to overcome evils and gain control over our senses. To control anger and hatred, the ancient sages left their villages and went to the forest. Today it is not necessary to retire to the forest to get rid of anger and hatred. Virtue cannot be practiced in a vacuum. If you live in an atmosphere of anger and are able to control it, then it is a meritorious achievement. But if you live in a forest where there is no room for anger and say that you have controlled your anger, it is not meaningful. You must, therefore, remain in the worldly surroundings where there is ample scope for the rising up of emotions of anger and hatred and then learn to control them. That will be a meritorious achievement.
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| Babu Rajendra Prasad The First President of Democratic India Image Source |
One who yields to anger is bound to suffer. Let Me cite an incident from the life of Babu Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India. Rajendra Prasad had a very good servant by name Rathna who was exceptionally faithful and served him for a long time to the satisfaction of his master. One day he was asked to clean his room. Rajendra Prasad had kept a pen given to him by Mahatma Gandhi, in one of his books. When the servant was cleaning the table, the book fell down and the nib broke. He became nervous but told his master the truth, begging his pardon for his mistake. On hearing this, Rajendra Prasad shouted at him in rage and asked him to get out and not to show his face again as the pen which he had broken, was a highly valuable gift from the Mahatma. The servant then pleaded that he could not survive without him and sought his forgiveness. But Rajendra Prasad was in no mood to listen to him and went out bidding his servant to get out of his sight.
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| Sages Viswamitra and Vasishta |
Anger is like an intoxicant. Internally, it induces us to do wrong things. This is the source of all the sins. It is a great demon. Anger leads us to commit all other sins. In the case of Viswamitra, we know that all the good he acquired by thapas(penance), was nullified by this one evil, anger. The merit he had accumulated through thapas undertaken for thousands of years was all lost in a moment of anger. We need not go as far as Viswamitra.
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| Three Worst Enemies – Desire-Anger-Greed |
For the spiritual pursuit of human beings, desire, anger and greed are the greatest enemies. Ravana symbolizes “Desire” in the Ramayana. Ravana was a great person indeed. He had no shortage of wealth, comforts and luxuries. He was well versed in the 64 forms of knowledge. He performed a variety of penance and earned the Grace of God. Such a great person lost everything on account of falling prey to desire or lust. In the sacred and Divine Ramayana, Ravana stood out as an example of foolishness. The reason was desire. Because of his desire he lost all the power acquired through penance.
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| Ravana – Victim of Anger and Attachment Image Source |
The history of noble souls sets an ideal for the entire nation. This is what Ravana too said. “O people of this world, not being able to control desire and anger, I have lost my very own son. Not being able to win over hatred and jealousy, I have lost all my relations and friends. Without understanding the fundamental truth of the world, I got my very own kingdom destroyed”. Cautioning others, Ravana said, “I request you not to follow the same path”.
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| Anger and Jealousy Ruin Our Lives Image Source |
Anger and jealousy are great enemies of man. With these qualities, one can never be a true human being and can never attain Divinity. One who gets angry every second and for every matter, has no humanness at all. It is only animal quality. The Upanishad and the Gita preach that one must primarily control one’s anger. What one needs to control is anger and jealousy. These two demons are always waiting at the doorstep. When these are at the doorstep, even a lion would not be able to get in. These are more powerful than a lion. A lion may get angry for just five minutes. But within that time, it is able to do so much work. Man remains angry for months and years and is unable to accomplish anything. Therefore, anger and jealousy are the greatest enemies of man. It will never promote unity and the quality of forbearance. Forbearance is the quality that adds beauty to the sacred land of Bharath. Forbearance is the real beauty. Without it, nothing will come to your help and you will not be able to bear any challenges in life.
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| Man should control the vices |
An animal has the qualities of hunger, desire and arrogance. It lives a fearless life, full of freedom, with no care and compassion. (On the other hand) man has the quality of kindness and compassion. Enquire within yourself, “Am I a human, am I an animal, or am I a beast?” The six vices of desire, anger, greed, attachment, pride and jealousy are common to these three. But man, though having these vices, should be able to exercise control over desire and anger. The four virtues of truth, compassion, love and peace are most essential. When you come across anybody you must be able to express compassion and kindness.
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| Love for God-Fear of Sin-Morality in Society |
To start with, love must manifest within oneself. Love leads us to peace. Peace and love confers happiness on us. We should not hate or harm anybody. If we hurt anybody, it is a reflection of our anger, a reflection of our inner sorrow. Therefore, develop love. We must exercise control over hatred and anger that may arise in us. That is the quality of a human being. Therefore, Love for God (Daiva Preeti), Fear of sin (Paapa Bheeti) and Morality in society (Sangha Neeti). If we wish to develop morality in society, we must first of all have fear of sin. And to avoid sin, we must develop Love for God. Once we develop Love for God, our sins will be burnt into ashes. The three main qualities in mankind must be: Love for God, Fear of sin and Morality in society.
06-What should be the essential difference between man and animal?
Part-I of this post has given an introduction to one of the great vices in mankind, i.e. anger. It also explains why we need to give up anger. Next, watch out for Part-II of this post, wherein Bhagawan gives us wonderful, yet very simple tips to exercise control over our anger. Read Part-II.
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| No Worries – No Happiness |
Sometimes bad things do happen to man. There is no time when man is free from worry. We have to worry for every task. Human life is filled with twelve types of worries. Birth, life on earth, family life, death, childhood, old age, living, failure, all actions, difficulties, happiness and worry itself (Birth-Death, Childhood-Old age, Life on earth-family life-living, Happiness-Failure-Difficulties-Worry, and All actions). The root cause of all these is worry itself. Without Chinta (worry), there cannot be Santasa (happiness). Man is able to derive happiness through these difficulties only. It is said, “Pleasure is an interval between two pains”. You get happiness only between two difficulties. It is impossible to get happiness without going through difficulties.
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| Pleasure and Pain go Hand in Hand |
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| Na Sukhaat Labhyate Sukham |
God is present in both good and bad, in truth and falsehood and in sin and merit. In these circumstances, how can we ascertain what is truth, what is sin and what is adharma?
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| Prahalada immersed his mind in God Image Source |
Whatever difficulties, loss or sorrow we may face at any point of time, we must never distance ourselves from God. Today, on account of worldly reasons, we are distancing ourselves from God who is eternal, who is the Truth. This is not true devotion. Let anything happen; once we have donned this physical body, several difficulties, losses and sorrows may come our way. This body is never permanent. We must safely protect our Love that is eternal and true.
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| The Gold has to be Hammered to make an Ornament Image Source |
There is oil in the sesame (til) seeds; but we need to know the method by which the oil can be extracted from the seeds. The sugarcane will not give you jaggery merely by asking for it; it has to be thrashed and squeezed to get the sweet juice. There is juice in the sugarcane. But by merely saying, “O sugarcane, please give me jaggery”, will it give jaggery? Only if we crush it well, remove the juice, put it on fire and heat it well, it will get transformed into the long lasting jaggery. Thinking that “Oh! Why should we subject this sugarcane to difficulties”, if we keep it aside in the corner, within three days it will get dried. The juice of compassion and love in it will also get dried. It will become useless.
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| The Human Body is given to face Challenges |
The one’s who face challenges with the human body and emerge victorious are ever ready for further challenges. The human body has been given to exert and undertake challenges (difficulties). If there are no difficulties, we must actually draw them towards us. Without troubles, we will never get happiness. The pleasure is an interval between two pains. Therefore, we will get some happiness only between two difficulties. Wherever we meet difficulties, we will get happiness. The troubles last only for some time and not for long. Therefore, in order to have long lasting happiness, we must be ready to face some difficulties.
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| All Difficulties are like Passing Clouds Image Source |
This blogpost is presented in two parts. Part-I with seven audio clips deals with the Underlying Philosophy and explanation of the context in which Bhagawan uses the statement, “Pleasure is an Interval between two Pains”. In the six audio clips of Part-II, Bhagawan gives simple prescriptions of how human beings can transcend the duality of life and go beyond joy and sorrow to experience everlasting bliss. In all the thirteen audio extracts in this blog post, spanning across Discourses delivered in the last 2 decades, Bhagawan refers to the phrase, “Pleasure is an interval between two pains”, and highlights different aspects about the same. The seven audio excerpts in Part-II have been taken from the Discourses delivered by Bhagawan during the years 1990, 1995, 1999, 2000 and 2003.
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| Whatever happens is for our Good |
Today, in the world, qualities like hatred, jealousy and ostentation are on the rise. To get rid of all of them, it is enough if we have Love. We must recognize the truth that whether our desires are fulfilled or not, it (whatever happens) is for our good; and we must act accordingly. I desired for a task, but that did not materialize. So, why should I hate somebody for that? Because of that hate, we will lose the positive results too. (We must think) “Oh! These difficulties are for my own good. There is something good even in this”. Whatever we come across, there is something good in it. Good and bad always go together. There can be no effort, without these two.
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| Draw Water of Happiness from the Well of Sorrow Image Source |
What great luck is it for the bee to suck sweet nectar from a bitter flower! We must see good even in bad. That is the true form of Love. Draw the water of bliss from the well of sorrow. The pleasure is an interval between two pains. God created the world with these two (opposite) aspects. Recognize your own physical form. God kept the Divine face that is beautiful, happy and smart; in front. The face is very attractive. But behind this, He created pitch black darkness. The black and dark hair behind gives beauty and happiness to the white face in front.
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| Good People always face Challenges |
Good people will always have many obstacles. The pleasure is an interval between two pains. Difficulties are more for good people only. Nobody will even look at bad people with their eyes. It is only a good diamond that gets the cuts. It is only the good gold that is put into fire and heated. The more the gold is heated in the fire, the more pure it becomes. The more the cuts in the diamond, the greater is its value. Therefore, when difficulties come to good people, their value always increases and never comes down. But we need to face those difficulties.
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| Mother Kunti to Lord Krishna – Give me difficulties always |
Therefore, have firm faith in God. Anyone may create an obstacle in the way, but you must move forward unmindful of that. Good acts always face lots of obstacles, but nothing comes in the way of bad things. Therefore, when many obstacles come your way, you must understand that it is for your own good. At time, some students fail in the class. Just because they have failed, do they leave the class and go? No; they must study sincerely the second time and pass the same. It is said that the pleasure is an interval between two pains. You get joy only between two pains. Vyasa declared, “Na Sukhaat Labhyate Sukham” (you cannot get pleasure out of pleasure). You cannot experience happiness out of happiness. Only through difficulties you can experience happiness. Without difficulties, happiness has no value. Without darkness light has no value. Hence, difficulties must be considered as very natural to man.
At one point of time, when the Pandavas were preparing for the war, mother Kunti bowed to Lord Krishna, and prayed, “Krishna, I want you to fulfill my one desire”. Krishna asked, “what do you want?” Kunti replied, “I want to have the devotion that will never allow me to forget You and the body that will be able to experience all difficulties. Give me difficulties all my life. It is possible to remember You only at times of difficulties. In happiness, I will not think of You. I experienced all happiness when king Pandu was there. In those days I never remembered You. After king Pandu passed away, rearing the children by my side and watching all the difficulties they went through, I felt that it is good to have difficulties only. In these difficult times, I was able to remember You several times. I am ready to bear any amount of difficulties. But my Love for You should not waver even a little bit”. Thus, she (Kunti) had her whole life centered around Krishna.
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| Welcome everything with Love |
We must utter words with Love. We must perform all our actions with Love. Whatever loss or difficulties come your way, experience them with Love. Just by saying “No” to them, they will not go away. Welcome everything – welcome-welcome-welcome. Sorrow comes – welcome it. Happiness comes – welcome it.
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| Transcend all Duality |
Purnamadah Purnamidam Purnaat Purnamudachyate
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| Swami is always Happy!! |
Lord Krishna was always blissful. Whether it was a burial ground, a safe place or a battle field, He was always happy. Or else, (just imagine) a war was going on, on one side 11 lakh soldiers and on the other side 40 lakh soldiers had assembled. Krishna was standing right between them and singing a song! That is Gita. Gita means a song. Can there be an opportunity for anyone to sing at such times? Only when we are very happy, we sing a song. When we are happy, we sing a song in the bathroom. Happiness is the cause for singing. Because Krishna was always blissful, He could sing a song even in the battle field. That is why, happiness is union with God. Divinity lies in happiness. For everything God is happy.
07-What message does Bhagawan convey to us through the example of the student who fails in an examination?
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| Smile and makes others smile! |
Students, boys and girls; all of you should pray for peace of the whole world. The status of Bharath is very great. From ancient times it has always strived for peace of the world. But today, on account of the influence of the English language and infatuation (with modern culture), the peace has turned into pieces. We must be peaceful and must not come down to pieces. You may learn any language, but have peace in your heart.
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| Pleasure is an interval between two pains |
Peace is within us. It is of no use searching outside. It is right within you. Truth and Love, both are within you. Living with love, you can achieve anything. Love is the biggest property of Swami! My duty is to distribute that Love to all. If you receive this in the right manner and understand it correctly, it will be good for you. Other than Love, nothing else can protect you. Therefore, all should understand this principle of Love.
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| Everything in life is Reaction-Reflection-Resound |
The snake has poison in its fangs. The scorpion has got poison in its tail. Every being has poison in different places. The fish carries poison in its throat. That is why, while cleaning the fish, people pluck out that part and throw it away. Thus, every creature has poison in a particular location (of the body).
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| Happiness is union with God! |
Students, do not waste time. (If you do so), you will become one who makes the sacred time unsacred. Use the time in a sacred way and experience happiness there from. Human being is one of bliss, full of bliss. Therefore, you must always be blissful. Never be depressed on account of desires. Happiness is union with God. Therefore, you must be ever smiling and happy.
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| True devotion is love for God |
Devotion does not mean merely worship, meditation and penance. True devotion means love for God, unwavering love. It must be changeless. It must always be constant. It must be steady. There is nothing beyond love. Anything may happen to the body but nothing can happen to the love within. Love is unwavering, changeless and can never be destroyed. You must safeguard and maintain such love. Then you will easily attain Divinity.
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| Examinations are for our good only |
God has no hatred towards anybody. He looks at everybody and smiles always. The eternal smile is the most important aspect of God. Where there is the never changing smile, hatred can never come there. Therefore, no one will cause pain to the one who smiles. So, always have a smiling face. You should never put up a castor face.
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| God is ever smiling! |
We must not hate anybody. Till this moment, I have never had any anger or hatred towards anybody. That is why everybody loves Me. There is only Love in Me. Wherever I am, people come after Me. It is this Love which brings everybody closer.
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| Action Orientation is on the decline |
Telugu Poem – Courage in talking excessively is on the rise, but action orientation is on the decline and literally vanishing. Life is full of delusion on account of being lost in pomp and show. This has become the life of modern students!
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| Excessive Talking leads to Loss of Memory Power |
Man is wasting his time by talking too much. Man is losing the Divine power and sanctity bestowed on him. Talking more leads to loss of memory power. The power of concentration also reduces. The Divine energy bestowed on man diminishes. Talking excessively makes man more hungry. Therefore, he eats more and this in turn makes him lazy. Being lazy, he does not execute any task sincerely. He will not be willing to participate in any service activity.
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| Talk Less and Work More |
Today, among the youth, the spirit of service is very essential. In order to serve we must eat within limits. Ati Tindi Mati Hani, Mita Tindi Ati Hayi – Too much food causes damage to the mind. Food within limits gives more comfort. Excessive eating is dangerous, we must eat within limits. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel also used to say, “Talk less and work more”. He performed all his actions with a sense of discipline. Everybody called him a ‘practical man’. Vidura also said that there is no greater power than the power of silence. Noble souls in ancient times observed silence and could thus attain Divinity.
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| Ready for eating but not for working! |
When it comes to action, everybody runs away. Today this is the trend. We must not talk too much. Today the trend is – Pani ki farar, Tindi ki tayar! – We are ready for food, but when it comes to work, we run away. No. Instead it must be, Tindi ki farar, Pani ki tayar– we must be ready for work and not concerned about food. We must be action oriented. This age is very sacred. It is one of Divinity and will yield good fruits. We should not spoil this sacred age. We must not waste time in any manner. We must not get into bad company or engage in bad work. We must enter into good company, engage in good action and good thoughts and strive for God.
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| Excessive Talk leads to Loss of Sensory Power |
Students today are losing their power on account of excessive talk. The sensory power given to them for a life time is lost by the time they reach the age of 18 or 20 years. Students should preserve the Divine sensory power bestowed on them. We should also preserve our eyesight. Today very young children are found wearing spectacles. Many youngsters also use hearing aids. What is the reason for all this? Is it the effect of the Kali age? No. It is one’s own weakness that causes all this.
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| Spiritual Power increases as we observe Silence |
Spiritual power increases as we observe silence. By talking too much we become susceptible to nervousness. Because of this nervousness, we lose the sense of discretion as to what is to be spoken and what is not to be spoken. The lesser we talk, the more we can serve. By engaging in service, we can develop friendship.
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| Adveshta Sarva Bhootaanaam Never hate anyone |
By talking less we will get pure thoughts and we will be able to engage the body in sacred work. When we talk more, unnecessary matters are discussed and it leads to gossip. We hear all this and translate it into action. Therefore, we should not talk bad about anybody. Adveshta Sarva Bhootaanaam– We should not hate anyone either.
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| Limit your friendship to Hello Hello and Goodbye Goodbye! |
Elders will feel happy watching your good behaviour. All parents want their children to get a good name, get a first rank in the class. Today we may have many ranks, but the behaviour is blank. In examination – rank, and in life – blank. This is the trend now. No! One must get ranks in all domains. There should be no crack there. When do all these bad qualities get into us? Only when we talk excessively. When you meet any of your friends, you may say, “Hello Hello, How are you How are you, Good bye Good bye”. That is all. Do not talk more. By talking more, we tend to indulge in vain gossip. We start discussing unnecessary matters and in the process we become weak. Because of this weakness, we will not be able to carry out any task that we are supposed to do. Therefore, students should talk less, study more and get high marks.
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| Have minimum relationships |
What we talk throughout the day, it comes back as reflection, reaction and resound. Everything is reflection, reaction and resound. They come back to us because of our own words and deeds. Students, reduce your excessive talking. Talk what is necessary. If it is related to your subjects, you can talk. When someone greets you with “Hello Hello”, you too restrict to just “Hello Hello”. If you develop relationships for just a naya paisa (100th part of a rupee), later you will not be able to detach yourself even with 4000 rupees. We should not cultivate such friendship. Do not develop any enemies too. How long will you study here in the College? You may stay here in the college for 3 to 4 years. In such a short period of time, which is like a passing cloud, why should you develop such friendship and relationship? Get a good name.
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| In Silence, we hear the Footsteps of God |
Mita Bhasha Ati Hayi – Less talk more comfort. Those (people) in the Sanyasaashrama, go to the forests, put a stop to seeing, hearing and talking and through silence they try to develop the Divine power. Therefore, it is said that the sound in the silence is Brahma. They close their eyes and sit in meditation. How should it be when one sits in meditation? There should be total silence. In that silence, you will be able to listen to the sound of the footsteps of God. When your sound itself is so high, how can you listen to the sound of God coming? The more silent you are, that much louder will you be able to hear the sound of the footsteps of God. Therefore, silence is God. The sound of God is present in total silence.
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| Silence restores energy of Mind and Senses |
Shabda Brahma Mayi (Brahma is in the form of sound). What is this sound? It is the sound in silence. Otherwise, our sound only will be louder. Therefore, we need to be silent. Everyday, at least for an hour, we must practice silence. In that silence, we can recover and develop a lot of the energy that we have lost. The whole day we put in a lot of effort and do work. When we sleep at night, all the senses take rest. As the senses take rest (at night), the next day, we are ready for working enthusiastically again. This means that it is very essential to give rest to the senses. When we give rest to the senses, the mind also gets rest.
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| Offering Eight Flowers to God Image Source |
Embodiments of Love! God does not expect from you the Shodashopachaara(16 forms of ritualistic worship) or the Ashtadasha Puraanam (Knowledge of the 18 Puraanaas) He wishes only for a few sacred flowers. The first flower is Ahimsa (Non-violence). It is very important. The second flower is IndriyaNigraham (Sense control). Sarva Bhoota Daya Pushpam (Compassion to all the beings) is the third flower. The fourth flower is Kshama (Forbearance). The fifth flower is Shanthi (Peace). The sixth flower is Tapas (Penance). The seventh flower is Dhyana (Meditation). The eighth flower is Sathya (Truth). It starts with Ahimsa(Non-violence) and ends with Sathyam(Truth). Therefore, when the beginning and the end meet, the life of the human being is redeemed.
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| Offering Non-violence at His Lotus Feet |
The very first flower is Ahimsa (Non-violence). Ahimsa is to not hurt or cause pain to any life or being, either in thought, word or deed. But some doctors use the knife and perform an operation. Many wonder whether this does not amount to violence. No. No. To relieve the existing pain (of the patient), the doctor uses the knife and cuts the stomach. Thereafter, he gives (the patient) happiness, joy and health. This amounts to helping only and not hurting. It is non-violence only and not violence.
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| Offering Sense-control at His Lotus Feet |
The second flower is that of Indriya Nigraham (Sense-control). Any Sadhana (spiritual exercise) done without exercising control of senses, goes in vain. How do we control the senses? First and foremost is the tongue.
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| Offering Compassion to all Beings at His Lotus Feet |
The third flower is compassion towards all beings. We should not hate any being. Bhagavad Gita calls this, “Adveshtaa Sarvabhootaanaam” (devoid of malice towards anyone). It is not just absence of hate, you must also not have too much interaction (connection) with others. Live in love with all. This is the flower of compassion towards all beings.
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| The one whom God Loves Image Source |
The flower of compassion towards all beings is very significant. Not just in Bhaarath, but in all nations, the flower of compassion towards all beings is very important. Boys know this (story) very well. There was a person by name Abou Ben Adhem who was always engaged in service. He would go to the bazaar and serve people without legs, eyes and other physically challenged people. He would return exhausted, late in the night, to his home. This is the flower of compassion towards all beings.
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| Service is the Highest form of Devotion |
Nine forms of service have been prescribed in this world. But among these nine types of devotion, service is the most important. Shravanam, Keertanam, Vishnu Smaranam, Paadasevanam, Vandanam, Archanam, Daasyam, Sneham, Atma Nivedanam. Among these nine forms of devotion, compassion towards all beings is the most important. Abou Ben Adhem was constantly engaged in serving other people. It is this eservice that earned him the first name in the list. That is why God started loving him. God loves all. Love is His very Form. But God comes forth and specifically loves those who show compassion towards all beings. Therefore, we must be apt in this art of service.
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| Offering Forbearance at His Lotus Feet |
The fourth flower is very important. The flower of forbearance is very special and significant. Pandavas suffered so many troubles at the hands of the Kauravas. Their consort Draupadi was humiliated. But Dharmaja maintained forbearance in all circumstances. That very forbearance protected the Pandavas and set them as an ideal example for the entire world. Therefore, the flower of forbearance is very dear to the Lord. Only when you offer the flower that is dear to the Lord, He will be happy and will confer the boons on you. What is the use of offering any number of flowers to God, if you do not offer that flower which is dear to Him? The other flowers are those that will dry away, fade away and wither away. But the flowers that must be offered to God are the flowers of forbearance, compassion towards all beings, sense-control and non-violence. These four flowers are very important.
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| Offering Peace at His Lotus Feet |
The fifth flower is Shanthi (Peace). In spite of facing any number of difficulties, in spite of facing obstacles, in spite of any objections, we must observe peace. When you have peace you will be graced with compassion. To be deserving of God’s Grace, you need to have peace (patience). Tyagaraja had to face so many difficulties. Potana had to face so many difficulties. So too, Tukaram and Shivaji. But they were able to resist all difficulties and observe peace (patience). The one who observes peace (patience) will be the recipient of God’s Grace in bounty.
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| Offering Penance at His Lotus Feet |
The flower of Tapas (Penance). What is Penance? Does penance mean going to the forest, partaking of roots and tubers and remembering God? This truly amounts to Tamas (sloth). What is real penance? Penance means being ready for anything. It means exercising control over the senses. Penance means controlling the agitation that arises in our thought, word and deed. It means putting a check on the disturbances that arise in our Satva, Rajas and Tamas qualities. We must have equanimity in all states of Satva, Rajas and Tamas. We must continuously focus our mind on God. The one with such a heart is a true human being. Hrut + Daya = Hrudaya. True penance means a human being must be filled with compassion. It is not merely wasting time or misuse of time. True penance means uniting the three. He is a true Yogi. Manas Ekam, Vachas Ekam, Karmanyekam Mahaatmanam (He is a noble soul who has unity between his thought, word and deed).
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| Offering Meditation at His Lotus Feet |
The seventh flower is that of Dhyanam (Meditation). What is meditation? People think that closing the eyes, sitting in the lotus posture and thinking of the Paramaatman(Supreme Being) is meditation. This is a physical and worldly type of meditation. This is meditation done in a worldly way. This is necessary. But to what extent? It is necessary until you get Paripurna Siddhi – total and complete attainment.
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| Offering Truth at His Lotus Feet |
The eight flower is Sathyam (Truth). This is very important. The creation is born out of Truth. The creation exists because of Truth and the creation will ultimately merge in Truth. Therefore, Truth is a very important Sadhana (spiritual exercise).
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| God does not want flowers that will dry away |
God will not accept your flowers which fade and dry away. The priest gets so many types of flowers and performs worship. “O priest, is this what you have learnt in all this time? You are getting lorries and lorries of rose flowers, lorries and lorries of jasmine flowers and other fragrant flowers. What is the use of getting all these? The flowers you get today fade away tomorrow. It is not these flowers that I want. I want the flower of peace, the flower of love. These will not fade and dry away. You perform worship with such flowers”.
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Part
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Theme
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Part-I
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Genesis and Management Model
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Part-II
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Emphasis on “No connection between SSSO and Money”
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Part-III
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Discipline – The undercurrent of all activities in SSSO
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Part-IV
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Love-Service-Sacrifice – The Three Pillars of the SSSO
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Part-V
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Expected Profile of SSSO Members
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Part-VI
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Ten Directives for SSSO Members
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Part-VII
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Concept of Ceiling on Desires
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| When we put a Ceiling on our Desires we get happiness |
Man is drowned in unhealthy desires and overpowered by sorrow. In order to remove this sorrow, we have advised the control of desires. The inner significance of this is that only when we put a ceiling on our desires, we can get happiness. However, even you, the Sadhakas, are not able to understand the meaning of this correctly.
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| Do not waste Money, Food, Time and Energy |
In our Organization, there are four important aspects related to “Ceiling on Desires”. The first one is, “Do not waste money”. The second one is, “Do not waste food”. The third one is, “Do not waste time”. The fourth one is, “Do not waste your energy”. Therefore,
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| Bhagawan wants only your Love! |
Sai has not started this Organisation with the desire for money. My wish is that you must control your desires, walk along the path of detachment and enjoy the Divine Bliss. But without understanding these sacred feelings of Mine, you all have considered the saving and offering of money to the Organization as the prime purpose of the practice of “Ceiling on Desires”. This is not the correct approach.
04-How according to Bhagawan, has the concept of Ceiling on Desires been misunderstood?
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Part
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Theme
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Part-I
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Genesis and Management Model
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Part-II
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Emphasis on “No connection between SSSO and Money”
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Part-III
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Discipline – The undercurrent of all activities in SSSO
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Part-IV
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Love-Service-Sacrifice – The Three Pillars of the SSSO
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Part-V
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Expected Profile of SSSO Members
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Part-VI
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Ten Directives for SSSO Members
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Part-VII
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Concept of Ceiling on Desires
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| Love and Serve your Motherland |
Most importantly, today, I wish to give you ten significant principles. The first one is, “Janani Janmabhoomischa”. The land that gives birth to you is similar to the mother who gives you birth. Therefore, every individual must have pride for the nation. Whatever country one belongs to, one should develop pride for that country. As we take care of the progress of our nation, we must not nurture any criticism for other nations. While having faith in one’s own nation, one must not hate any other nation. Neither in your thoughts nor in your dream must there be any scope for betraying your country. Therefore, for any individual, pride in the motherland is very important. This is the first principle.
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| Respect all Religions Image Source |
The second principle is that we must respect all religions and must not have any hatred towards any of them. In addition to having pride for one’s motherland, we must also respect all religions.
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| All are your Brothers and Sisters |
The third principle is that we must love the entire humanity as our own brethren. There is only one caste, the caste of humanity. As we are all born in the human race, we must recognize that all human beings are essentially one and we must love each other accordingly.
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| Keep your home and environs clean |
From a worldly point of view, keeping the house clean, keeping the environs / surroundings of the house clean, is the fourth principle. By keeping the house and its surroundings clean, we will acquire good health and happiness too. This will be beneficial for our worldly life.
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| Provide the poor with a livelihood |
Charity does not mean making our nation full of beggars. We must provide some support or livelihood for the beggars but must not give in the form of charity. We must provide them some solution; make arrangement for some shelter, and create an environment that provides them food, clothing and other conveniences from time to time. We must not keep on giving money to beggars whom we come across in the market, thus bringing a bad name to our nation as a land of beggars. Because we keep on giving alms, people in cities and villages are becoming lazy and turning into beggars. This is not good.
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| Do not give or take bribes |
Next is the sixth principle. The practice of giving bribes and getting the work done or taking bribes to do the work, must never take place in Sathya Sai Organization. Taking bribes or giving bribes amounts to betraying the Sathya Sai Organization. All members must keep this ideal in their sight and conduct themselves with extreme caution.
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| No differences on account of caste or religion |
Now the seventh principle. Mankind is faced with a number of problems. To seek solutions to these problems, we need to adopt and follow certain principles. Feelings of hatred and jealousy grow within us. We would need to develop broad mindedness to put a check on this hatred and jealousy. To develop this broad mindedness, we must see to it that we do give any scope for differences based on caste and religion. We must not go by caste or religion. You may follow your traditions in your home. But following your specific practices in society can lead to danger. It will lead to promoting someone and putting down someone else. Therefore, we must love each other like brothers (and sisters) and we must never encourage any differences of caste and religion.
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| Be self-reliant |
How can those who do not do their own work, serve society? Therefore, every member of the Sathya Sai Organization must do her/his own work and must not get it done by others. There could be many wealthy people, and they may keep some servants. The servants may be used to perform some tasks, but to get one’s personal work done by the servants, amount to laziness. People who succumb to such laziness can never do service to the society. One who does do service to the society does not deserve to belong to the Sathya Sai Organization. Therefore, in order to serve the society, first of all, one needs to serve oneself. This is the eighth principle.
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| Love God and Fear sin |
There must be love for God and fear of sin. Love God constantly. Hate sin. So long as you commit sin, you will not get God.
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| Observe the Laws of the Land |
It is imperative for the members of the Sathya Sai Organization to follow these ten ideals. These apart, there is one more general point common to all. We must never transgress the law of the land (government). We must strictly abide by the rules of the government. Every member of the Sathya Sai Organization must experience and practice the rules and regulations along the right path, and set an ideal for the Government too. Therefore, in our Organization, we must not perform any activity that is against the law. Establishing this in your heart, you must provide the right ideals for the Organization. With this wish and Blessing you all, I bring My long discourse to a close.
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Part
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Theme
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Part-I
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Genesis and Management Model
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Part-II
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Emphasis on “No connection between SSSO and Money”
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Part-III
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Discipline – The undercurrent of all activities in SSSO
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Part-IV
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Love-Service-Sacrifice – The Three Pillars of the SSSO
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Part-V
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Expected Profile of SSSO Members
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Part-VI
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Ten Directives for SSSO Members
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Part-VII
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Concept of Ceiling on Desires
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| Love, Service and Sadhana The Three Pillars of the SSSO |
Merely reading the texts and listening to Discourses cannot make an impact on the heart. To touch the heart and make an impact on it, one must engage in service. One who does not undertake service has no right to talk or preach. Therefore, to acquire the right to speak, one must necessarily engage in service. Seva is the primary Sadhana. To whomsoever we serve, we must regard that we are serving God. We must consider that we are undertaking all activities to please God.
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| Always aspire to be Service Oriented |
Embodiments of Divine Atma, the Sathya Sai Seva members, the Sathya Sai Sevadals, the Sathya Sai Seva Samithi, the Sathya Sai Balvikas – all these are always associated with the word Seva, Seva, Seva. Therefore, we must always aspire to be Sevaks (servants) and in the process attain the position of leadership, but not run after the aspiration to become leaders directly. If we enquire into the situation correctly, we find that in the Western countries, the one who is a Sevak today becomes a leader overnight. She/he becomes a leader or a Guru. You can imagine the harm that such Gurus can bring about. Therefore do not think about becoming Gurus, always entertain the noble thoughts of being a Sevak forever.
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| Enter Service – Practice Sacrifice |
All people and specifically all members of the Sathya Sai Organization must enter into service activities. We must nurture sacrifice, sacrifice, sacrifice. There are so many wealthy and rich people. They are rich only for name sake but there is no sacrifice in their action. They do not even perform the meritorious act of giving somebody a glass of water. No, no. This is not human life. Sacrifice, sacrifice and sacrifice. Therefore, the Vedas have proclaimed, “Na Karmana Na Prajaya Dhanena Tyage Naike Amrutatva Maanashuhu” (Not by action, not by progeny, nor by wealth; it is by sacrifice alone that one can attain immortality). We must attain this form of immortality.
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| In Service, there must be no differences |
In the matter of service and bending your body and working, no differences of any type must be entertained, either by the members or the seniors of the Organization. When it comes to service, without having any differences in your mind, in a collective manner, considering all as the children of God; you must provide help and support.
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| Remove feelings of Mine and Thine |
All the material objects in the world that give you comfort and joy are not for the use of one single individual. All have a right to it. Each one should put in an effort to experience her/his share of it. It rains, the river flows, the crop grows, the sun and the moon shine; all these activities are not meant for any one single individual. We must recognize the truth that each one has a right to experience these joys and comforts. The Sevadals must strive to remove the narrow minded feelings of “this is mine” (mine) and “this is yours” (thine). They must give up narrow minded ideas, must be contented with what they get and must help others with a sense of gratitude. They must understand that this is the true form of Worship.
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| Adopt and Feed one poor person a day |
In this conference, we must adopt one new practice. In this country there are so many poor people, forlorn people, sick people and others who are challenged in different ways. Each family must be prepared to nurture one poor person. Each family must offer food and protection to a poor person, thus preventing her/him from going to the market place to beg for food. Each family must welcome and offer food to at least one poor person every day. In this country that has assumed the form of Annapoorneshwari (Goddess of Food), if there is no one to feed the people who cry out, “Annamo Ramachandraha” (Oh Rama give me food), how then, can we call this country as Annapoorna Kshetra (land of the Goddess of food)?
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| God alone is the witness to the selfless service of the SSSO Members |
Not just that, in many parts of the organization (SSSO), right from young children to old people; all of them are doing so much Seva. Selfless service can be seen only in the SSSO. In Bharath, a few months back, in West and East Godavari, the Pushkara festival was celebrated where lakhs of people congregated (Since time immemorial, river worship, known as “Pushkaram”, is performed to make people realize the importance of water, the life-sustaining force. Pushkaram is a holy happening once in every 12 years at each of the 12 major rivers of India, the Godavari being one among them. Every 12th year Jupiter’s entry into the constellation Leo marks the Pushkaram for Godavari). Even in Krishna district, thousands of people assembled for the Krishna Pushkara. The Seva done by the men and women over there is something that only the eyes which have witnessed it can understand and not the fools who only speak. God alone is the witness to the tolerance exhibited by them to all the impurity (dirt) around and to the sacred seva done by them in cleaning and sweeping the place.
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Part
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Theme
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Part-I
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Genesis and Management Model
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Part-II
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Emphasis on “No connection between SSSO and Money”
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Part-III
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Discipline – The undercurrent of all activities in SSSO
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Part-IV
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Love-Service-Sacrifice – The Three Pillars of the SSSO
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Part-V
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Expected Profile of SSSO Members
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Part-VI
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Ten Directives for SSSO Members
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Part-VII
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Concept of Ceiling on Desires
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| Live like Children of One Mother |
Embodiments of Divine Atma, all members who have joined the Sathya Sai Sevadal and the Sathya Sai Samithi must consider themselves as children of one Mother. You must make an effort not to have any differences of opinions, and must avoid exhibition of qualities like jealousy and ostentation.
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| Be Humble |
Embodiments of Divine Atma! Most importantly, all those who join as members in the Sathya Sai Organization must lead a humble life without pride or ego. One should not exhibit any pride that she/he is the State President, District President or the Samithi Head. So long as there is ego, you can never be a leader. Therefore, it is better to remove such people with pride from their leadership position. You should develop yourself into a servant and not into a leader. It is only a Kinkara(servant) who can become a Shankara (wise one or great one). First of all, we must make an attempt to reduce the ego in us gradually.
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| Give up Jealousy |
The second aspect is jealousy. Looking at the good of others and their name and fame, others make their eyes red (become jealous). Jealousy is a bad disease. On account of this disease, one loses one’s humanity. Human nature which is Divine is transformed into a Demonic one. Therefore, we must ensure that we do not allow the demon of jealousy to get into us.
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| Do not be Ostentatious |
Next is ostentation and exhibitionism. You must not start exhibiting that they have prepared Sakkarpongal (sweet rice) for Bhajans (as Prasadam) and so I will prepare Laddus (sweet balls). Yet in another instance, one individual may try to spend more money to be more ostentatious than someone else who has been very ostentatious. In our Organization, we must not give any scope for ostentation relating to misuse or wastage of money. It is said that misuse of money is evil. It is also said that wealth is the very form of (Goddess) Lakshmi. If we misuse Lakshmi (wealth) it would amount to misuse of our very goal. When there are times of necessity, you can spend anything and even give your own life to protect someone. You must not waste money in unnecessary matters, just for the sake of name and fame.
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| Follow and Propagate Sai Ideals |
Embodiments of Divine Atma, today (representatives of) the whole world (have) has assembled in Prasanthi Nilayam, moving about as elder and younger brothers and sisters. This is a sight for the whole world to see. This is the right opportunity. Recognizing this opportunity, you all must determine as office bearers, to promote the sacred Dharma, and stand as shining examples and ideal role models. This is My wish. Those of you, who wish to stand as ideal role models for the world, will have to propagate the need for one common and uniform discipline amongst all of you. Our feelings may be different, our intentions may be different, our nations may be different, our religions may be different, our languages may be different; but the ideals of Sai can never be different. Therefore, those of you who are office bearers in Sai Organizations, must necessarily understand the oneness of Sai ideals and practice and propagate the same to the world.
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| Have a Steady Heart and Pure Mind |
Today the world is becoming mad for wealth, authority and position; but it is necessary that the leaders of the Sathya Sai Organization become mad for the sake of their ideals. Today the world does not need a new religion, a new Mantra or a new society. An unwavering heart and a pure mind are most essential.
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| See Unity in Diversity |
Without the practice of unity, one cannot realize what this life is all about. So much of diversity (difference of opinions) appears in humanity because each one wishes to follow her/his individual feelings. This is not what must be experienced or accepted in the Sathya Sai Organization. We must have conviction in and must have the vision of Unity in Diversity. Because we are unable to have the vision of Unity in Diversity, differences surface and hatred is on the rise. Where there is no Unity, enmity appears. In the world around we do not come across a sense of unity or Love. Life therefore becomes superficial.
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| Do not encourage distinction of any type |
In the Sathya Sai Organization there must be no distinction based on caste, religion, lineage or race. All are the children of one God. When we promote this type of unity, Divinity will certainly shine forth.
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| Regard the Whole World as One Home |
All the office bearers (of the SSSO) must engage in Desha Seva (service to the nation) and Samaja Seva (service to the society). Considering and feeling the entire world as one home, they must perform their activities. This must be their primary aim.
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| SSSO must be distinct |
You must conduct yourselves in such a way as to project a clear distinction between the other Organizations that exists in the world and the Sathya Sai Organization.
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| SSSO is Unique! |
Today the whole world has recognized that, if there is any Organization that is sacred, ideal and united, it is the Sathya Sai Organization. There are many organizations in the world. But the conduct, practice and speech (communication) that is there in Sathya Sai Organization, is not to be found elsewhere.
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| The Sacrifice made by SSSO Members is beyond description |
Truly, the sacrifice being made by the Sathya Sai Organization is beyond description. For all this, it is your Love which is the main basis. One small example: The Veda chanting goes on…Sahana Vavatu Sahanau Bhunaktu (May He protect us both together; may He nourish us both together), but this forbearance has only been in words from ancient times. However, today the (members of the) Sathya Sai Organization is (are) showing this in practice. This forbearance can be acquired only through Love and not through any other path. One small example: So many wealthy people have come here. So many men and women who always live in comfort have come here. Many have come who have never bent their back and done any work. For each one there may have been (in their homes) a separate bedroom of 20’ x 20’ size, but that is of no consequence to them. You can imagine how such comfort loving people, such wealthy and rich people, have been living in Prasanthi Nilayam with so much of forbearance. They are not aspiring for any conveniences. They have no desire for any comfort. Wherever they get (a place) they put up with all the difficulties and wait for receiving Swami’s Love. You will not get this kind of forbearance in any other organization or congregation.
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| Your Love is the prime basis for everything |
Embodiments of Love, the whole world is recognizing the sacred feelings that are prevalent in Sathya Sai Organization. In a bag of rice, it is but natural to find few stones. In this ordinary world, being mere human beings, few may commit some mistakes. But this will not make any (negative) impact on the Organization. Truly, the sacrifice being made by the (members of the) Sathya Sai Organization is beyond description. For all these things, it is your love that is the prime basis.
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| Practice the Resolutions taken |
Embodiments of love, let anyone talk good or ill about you, let anyone praise or criticize you, do not get elated nor depressed; you must determine to continue to engage in your Seva with genuine feelings, and seek fulfilment in this life and realize your Divinity. Most importantly, it is not enough to put on paper the resolutions taken in this Conference. They should take the form of action (practice). Every person should manifest these ideals in their experience.
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Part
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Theme
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Part-I
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Genesis and Management Model
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Part-II
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Emphasis on “No connection between SSSO and Money”
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Part-III
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Discipline – The undercurrent of all activities in SSSO
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Part-IV
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Love-Service-Sacrifice – The Three Pillars of the SSSO
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Part-V
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Expected Profile of SSSO Members
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Part-VI
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Ten Directives for SSSO Members
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Part-VII
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Concept of Ceiling on Desires
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| Members of SSSO are like its Spinal Column |
Members of the Sathya Sai Organization are like the spinal column of the body. If the office bearers do not conduct themselves along the right path, the very spinal column of the organization will get broken. Therefore do not lead the organization along the wrong path. Get a good name by leading the Sathya Sai Organization, which is an ideal for all other organizations; along the Divine, holy, and ultimate path. There can be no connection between money and the Sathya Sai Organization. Any organization having link with money cannot be Sathya Sai Organization at all. Love for love and heart for heart alone can bring about proximity and bonding.
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| No connection between SSSO and Money |
You all must live in unity, manifest your Divinity, promote the same, and determine to uphold the culture of ancient traditions of Bharath. You must develop the broad mindedness that service to man is service to God. Discard the narrow feelings of me and mine. The problems of the world today can be solved only through Love. Because of lack of love, humans are behaving worse than the cruel animals in the forest. Therefore, promoting the feeling of love and getting rid of the narrow minded feelings, you must engage in service to society with a Divine broad (generous) heart.
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| Sai wants your Virtues, not Money |
What Sai wishes is the wealth of virtues and not this miserable wealth. Even the Sathya Sai Organization will have no necessity of wealth. They are doing Bhajans, Nagar Sankeertan, Social service, Seva in Hospitals. Why do you need money for any of these (activities)? If virtues and according to that, strength is there; if Icchha Shakti (will power or strong wish) and Kriya Shakti(strength or power of action) is there; then there need not be any relationship between these noble activities and money. It is not that there are no associations (among SSSO), which proclaim that money is required for carrying out such noble activities. Such associations are actually bringing disrepute to the Sathya Sai Organization. Even if there are 10 associations that relate to the Sai ideals, they are enough. Why these 100 and 1000s of associations? We do not need them. One teaspoon full of cow’s milk is enough, why barrels and barrels of donkey’s milk?
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| Maya is very powerful. It can delude anybody |
Embodiments of Divine Atma, even as we get onto the path of spirituality in different ways, perform various sacred activities and undertake service to society; Maya (delusion) which is very powerful, engulfs man and makes him take onto many wrong paths. Death is sweeter than the blindness of ignorance. The engulfing Maya is so powerful that it can delude any type of person within a few seconds.
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| Never beg or ask for money |
One more point. Even for small trivial matters and for small trivial programmes, money is being collected. There are many rich people, many able bodied people. Even if 1 or 2 of them get together, so much work can be accomplished. Our Organization should never get into the act of going unnecessarily from house to house and begging for money. Here is a small example.
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| Never give cash to anyone, Deposit directly into the account of the Trust, if you wish to |
I am wishing that none of you (members of SSSO) take the Sathya Sai Organization on the path of collecting money. Rather, you should perform the Sadhana of taking the Organization along the path of developing virtues and present the model of an ideal life to the world. Those who are interested and enthusiastic and have the ability to give may contribute anything to the Health and Education Trust. Sai has no objection to that. Here also, there is a simple solution. Do not give any money into anyone’s hands. Those of you who are enthusiastic may directly go to a known bank and deposit the money in the account according to your ability and take the receipt. But do not give money directly into the hands of any individual. If you do so, you will be responsible in making the sacred name of Sathya Sai unsacred.
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| If you need anything, come to Me I will give! |
Swami has no desire for anything. The Sathya Sai Organization must progress further through the quality of sacrifice. Then alone will the nation of Bharath be restored to its glorious ancient culture. This is not that far. Very soon there will be a resurgence of our ancient culture. Therefore, all members of the Sathya Sai Organization must develop sacred feelings, nurture sacred thoughts and perform all actions with noble thoughts. Then there is bound to be victory. Therefore what we need to do is this: never stretch your hand before anyone. If you have any necessity, come to Me, I will give you. Why do you stretch your hand like this? In fact members of the organization that stretches its hand like this are not devotees at all. They all will become “beggars”. But we must become “biggers’. We must set an example by living an ideal life. We must engage in activities that are selfless. We should help the poor, we must respect the forlorn. Only when we undertake service activities like this, we can be called devotees.
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| Take back all your money I only want your pure Love! |
Since today the office bearers (of SSSO) of all the States of India are here, whatever money has been extracted from different states, whatever wealth has been got by begging from different districts; I am returning all that money of 60 lakhs got from begging, back to you. You only make use of this. From whatever district you have collected this money, use it in the same district to help the poor and forlorn people by doing service in the right way. The only thing I seek from you, for which My Hand turns for receiving (palm upwards), is your pure, serene and selfless Love. For no other thing will My Hand ever turn to receive. For everything else, My Hand will always turn to give (palm downwards). Therefore, recognize the truth that in the name of Sathya Sai (Organization) if any money is collected, it can never be connected to Sathya Sai. You must also act accordingly. I do not desire for this, I have never desired for this and I will never desire for this (wealth or money). What I seek is sacred feelings alone. Even these sacred feelings are not for My sake. They are for the welfare of the world. For the welfare of the world, the members of the Sathya Sai Organization must develop a sacred heart, enter into this world, clean the dirt that has accumulated and promote a Divine environment. Our work is Seva, Seva, Seva. This must be our primary aim.
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| Our business is Love to Love, Heart to Heart |
Today even spiritual organizations are becoming commercial establishments. But Sathya Sai Organization must not become a commercial establishment. What sort of business must be there? Heart to Heart and Love to Love. We must get into the business of giving and receiving. Herein, there cannot be a relationship with any object or with money or with anything else. An Organization that develops a relationship with (material) objects and with money can never make any progress. Therefore we must aspire for union of heart with the heart that is truly close to the Divine. We must connect Love with Love. We must join our hands and do service. In this manner we can experience the Viswa Viraata Swarupa (Cosmic Form).
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Part
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Theme
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Part-I
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Genesis and Management Model
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Part-II
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Emphasis on “No connection between SSSO and Money”
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Part-III
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Discipline – The undercurrent of all activities in SSSO
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Part-IV
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Love-Service-Sacrifice – The Three Pillars of the SSSO
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Part-V
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Expected Profile of SSSO Members
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Part-VI
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Ten Directives for SSSO Members
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Part-VII
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Concept of Ceiling on Desires
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| To protect a sapling, we need a fence |
Today, we have decided to accept certain regulations and discipline for the Sathya Sai Organization. Why do we need all such controls and regulations? Many enquire whether such regulations are necessary even on the spiritual path. A small example to illustrate this point: A plant would not grow just by watering it. It is necessary to protect it by building a fence around it, thus preventing any damage to it by animals. Once the plant becomes a tree, we would not need any fence. In the same way, we have planted the sapling of our spirituality in us. There are so many forces in this world which try to attack it. In order to protect (this sapling), we will have to have some regulations in the form of a fence. When it grows fully and bears fruits, we would not need any of these regulations. By that time you would be a total Sarva Sangha Parityagi(total renunciant). But before becoming a Sarva Sangha Parityagi, if you do not practice this discipline, you will make no progress.
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| All are Brothers and Sisters |
Here, we consider all as brothers and sisters. In the Sri Sathya Sai Organization, we are practising with faith, specifically, the discipline of the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of God. Therefore, be it America or Germany or Japan or Russia, he remains your brother only. But in the name of brother, brother (brotherhood), we cannot have a separate rule for America, a separate rule for Japan and a separate rule for Russia. All Sai brothers (members of the Sai Organization) must follow the same path.
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| Ladies and Gents must be seated separately |
A small example to illustrate the point: In Bharath, in sacred Prasanthi Nilayam, men and women are seated separately; and in such conferences, each one goes about doing her/his own work and discharging her/his own duty. This is the tradition in the Sai organizations. In the same way, so many of you have come from America, South Africa, Germany, Italy, etc. This same discipline has to be observed even in your own respective countries.
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| Control of Mind is necessary |
Some Westerners argue “We men and women sit together (in a mixed manner and not separately) and sing Bhajans; it is not possible for us, men and women to sit separately; this is our tradition; this has been our culture right from the beginning”. But this culture has to be changed. Only when it is changed, you will become devotees. If you keep saying, it is our culture, our culture, then you will never become devotees any day. Be it Westerners or the Bharatiyas, we have to sacrifice some of our past practices and unnecessary traditions. This is the spiritual path. Chanchalam Hi Manah Krishna Pramaathi Balavad Dridham(Gita 6:34 – O Krishna, this mind is restless, stubborn and strong). The courageous and heroic Arjuna himself says that he cannot control his mind. Therefore, the mind is like a mad monkey. To control this mind we have to practice very rigorously some type of discipline.
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Part
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Theme
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Part-I
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Genesis and Management Model
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Part-II
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Emphasis on “No connection between SSSO and Money”
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Part-III
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Discipline – The undercurrent of all activities in SSSO
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Part-IV
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Love-Service-Sacrifice – The Three Pillars of the SSSO
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Part-V
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Expected Profile of SSSO Members
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Part-VI
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Ten Directives for SSSO Members
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Part-VII
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Concept of Ceiling on Desires
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| SSSO has not been established to propagate the name of Sathya Sai |
It is essential to recognize the truth that these organizations have not been established to propagate the name of Sathya Sai. As so many other organizations have come forth in the world on account of which atheism is on the rise and theism is on the decline, such organizations (SSSO) have been started so that at least a few people will spread across the nation and across the world and preach the noble ideals.
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| Call the Centres as Sathya Sai Centres |
Sathya Sai Organizations in America, Mexico and other countries are called as Sai Baba Centres. There is no difference between Sai Baba and Sathya Sai Baba. However, the physical body of Sai Baba and the related organization is different. The physical body of Sathya Sai and the related organization is different. Therefore, if we enquire from a worldly point of view, differences do arise between Sai Baba Centres and Sathya Sai Baba Centres. In the name of Sai Baba Centres, a lot of preaching and propagation goes on. If we become one with them, we will have no authority to point out the good and bad in them. We will have every right to go to those who call their Centres as Sathya Sai Centres and point out the good and bad aspects in them and help them to walk on the right path. It is not only from the authority (to speak) point of view that we need to have this practice, but coming together like this, will make it possible to help them to lead an ideal life along the righteous path. It is not right for members of one organization to go and join another organization or to have relationships and connections between two different organizations.
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| Set up a Council of Management |
In the Western countries it is not possible to have the name “Sathya Sai Seva Organizations”, because they would not understand the meaning of the word “Seva”. They would mistake it for just “Service”. Calling it “Service Organizations” would also not convey the right meaning. Hence it is advisable to call them as just “Sathya Sai Centres”. Members of the Western nations, it is necessary to address you all in specific. There are certain differences in the traditions and practices of Bharath and your nations. Each Samithi, each Bhajan Mandali, each Seva Centre, each Study Circle, and each Satsangh may operate as independent units. However, for each nation it is necessary to have a Council of Management consisting of 5 or 10 members who would oversee the activities of all these units.
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| Selection and not Election |
Some people are being troubled by some doubts. There are few who do not understand the feelings of the office bearers of the International Sathya Sai Organization. They are also not recognizing the connection and interrelationship with the World Council. An effort is being made to have some specific individuals as representatives for certain nations. How do we determine these representatives? Who will determine these representatives? Some people have lot of misunderstanding regarding this. Basing on the wishes of the devotees over there and according to their likes, they would like to select a representative. If we go by this approach, then there will be politics and it will be followed by election. In election, the love is completely destroyed. We will be misusing our love. If we wish to truly promote our love, then we must have selection and must not get into election. This selection must be done through the Central Trust. Fighting and creating chaos amongst themselves, they must not divide themselves in the course of arguing over matters.
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| Work in Unison and Harmony |
Be it the Samithi, or the Study Circle, or the Seva Dal; some wish that these should operate completely independent of each other, without any relation or connection between them. This is not correct. There must be a close link between all these units. A small example. This finger is the Seva Samithi. This other finger is the Mahila Vibhag – Women’s Wing. The middle finger is the Seva Dal. The next finger is the Bal Vikas. The last finger is the Bhajana Mandali. If these five fingers are chopped off and made independent, what remains? It is only when these five work collectively that we can accomplish any task. Therefore, in our organization, it is not possible for any unit to operate independently. All these units are like the rivers that flow into the ocean. Rivers have different names and forms before they merge into the ocean. Even the taste (of their water) is different. But once they merge into the ocean, they lose their individual name, form and taste and assume the name, form and taste of the ocean. Therefore, all citizens of all nations must become one with respect to the ideals of Sai.
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| Entire Humanity is One Family |
Every individual, with a narrow minded feeling refers to “Brothers and Sisters of the Sai Family”. “Sai Family, Sai Family”, this is such a narrow minded feeling. Therefore, henceforth, do not use the term “Sai Family”. That is, do not use the term “Sai”, because all belong to the human family. Some may like Sai, others may like Rama, yet others may like Krishna. In this congregation, there are so many people with different tastes and likings. I do not have such narrow minded feelings. You are all not members of a “Sai Family”. You are all members of the Divine Family of God. God is the same for all nations, for all families, for all times. One Name and one Form is a narrow minded approach. We must develop the broad mindedness that all Names and all Forms are One.
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| Spread the Message through Love |
We do not need any great publicity. We do not need to have any advertisement. Silence is our advertisement. We must work silently. There must be only mind to mind, love to love and body to body connection. You must acquire love only through love. Love will expand in the entire world. What is spoken somewhere, when broadcast on the radio, can be heard this very second in Kadugodi (Whitefield, Bangalore). Similarly, our noble thoughts are like radio waves. These waves have to spread only through love and not through broadcast. Prachaaram (publicity) is not at all the Aachaaram (practice) of the Sathya Sai Organization. Aachaaram (practice) is our Prachaaram (publicity). Therefore, with such sacred practice, we must develop our Organization, making it well known across the world. With the love principle, we must make the entire world stand like one family.
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| Spiritual Conferences purify our Minds |
When we are unable to see our own form, we hold a mirror in front of us. Similarly, when we are unable to recognize our Satvic (pious) qualities and Divine nature, we need to participate in such conferences, hold the Satsangha (good company) as a mirror and make an attempt to see our own true form. Whatever we see and hear in this world are all a reflection of our own inner feelings. When we think and reflect on our good and noble feelings, we will become deserving of witnessing our true form. Without cleaning the impurity that engulfs our mind, even if we take bath ten times, we will continue to remain impure. Therefore, we must recognize that these conferences are instrumental in purifying our minds.
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| All Religions preach the same Truth Image Source |
All religions have preached only sacredness. All religions called upon people to adhere to the path of Truth. They also taught that good qualities or virtues are very essential for man. Thus, when the essence of all the religions, the basis of all the scriptures and the goal of all human efforts is one and the same, where is the need for any such differences? The paths are varied, but the destination is one and the same. It is a sign of man’s bad quality that in spite of these truths, he indulges in conflicts and agitations on account of religious differences.
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| Look upon all Religions with equal respect |
Although all religions have preached the principle of samathvam (equality), selfish persons, for their own ends, without understanding this broad principle, are promoting conflict and discord with narrow minded feelings. One who is merely well-versed in the scriptures cannot be called a Pandit (a person with knowledge and wisdom). Even a master of the Vedas, Sastras, Puranas and History cannot be regarded as a Pandit. Scholarship alone does not make a man a Pandit. Mastery of language does not confer this title. “Panditaa Samadarsinah”.A true Pandit (scholar) is the one who sees all with an equal eye (who is equal minded). Hence, we should look upon all religions with Samadrishti (equal respect). No religion should be criticised or reviled. One should imbibe the essence of bliss in all the religions.
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| Respect all Religions Never Criticize any Religion Image Source |
Let there be many different names. But, students should be completely free from such differences. They should respect all religions because what you cherish in your religion is found in other religions also. If you adhere and respect your own religion, you need not get into any conflict with others (belonging to other religions).
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| Any Religion that denounces any other Religion is no Religion at all |
Whether in Hinduism or Buddhism, Jainism or Sikhism, Christianity or Islam, Divinity is One and One only. Today people of different faiths profess great belief in their religion. But this is merely acting and not the truth. The Hindus consider that Hindu religion is the greatest. If this is so great, then what is its greatness? It is the teaching that the God in all the religions is one and the same. To claim that my religion of Hinduism is the greatest and to criticize other religions – does it amount to belief in Hindu religion?
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| Conflicts are caused not by Religion but by Selfish Minds |
The essence of all religions is Oneness and that is the principle of Love. If we nurture that principle of love there will be no scope for any hatred. Today religion is regarded as the cause for all the conflict, violence and bitterness in the world. But, matham (religion) is not the cause. Svaartha Mathulu (Selfish minds) are responsible for all the conflict. Are there not conflicts among people of the same religion on account of diverse viewpoints? People in Iran and Iraq profess the same Islamic faith. What is the reason for the conflict between them? 3/4thof the nations in the western world are Christians; but what is the reason for conflicts among them?
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| If the Mind is Good which Religion can be Bad? |
Matamulanniyucheri Manchine Bodhinche
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| Help Ever Hurt Never – Sage Vyasa Image Source |
The ancient Bharatiya religion, based on the Vedic culture, also referred to as the Hindu traditions, always prayed for universal peace “Lokaa Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu”. The objective of Islam religion is also the same. In Persian, the word “Islam” has many sacred meanings. One meaning of the word “Islam” is “surrender” and another meaning is “peace”. The inner meaning of this term is that man should surrender to God and live in peace with his fellow men. The holy book of Islam, the Quran, contains many sacred precepts. “Salaath” is one such precept. It enjoins one to worship God with steady faith. Another precept is “Zakaath”, which enjoins the believer to practise charity for relieving and protecting fellow-beings in need or in distress.
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| All Religions preached for the welfare of society |
It is evident that all religions preached keeping in mind the well-being and safety of society. The well-being of society leads to the welfare of the world. The immortal drop of Truth-realisation (Self-realization) can be got only through society. But, unfortunately, society today is riddled with the poison of strife, chaos and conflict.
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| Love is the undercurrent of every Religion |
He is a true Christian who cultivates the harvest of love in the field of his heart. A Christian should become an ideal Christian. That is, he must cultivate the harvest of love in the field of his heart. Only then can he be a true Christian. Next, who is a Sikh? A Sikh is not the one who wears a turban and carries a sword. One can be a true Sikh only if he cultivates the harvest of love in (the field of) his heart. Therefore, a true Sikh is the one who is full of love, who is the very form of love. Being a Sikh does not mean killing others and causing pain to others. Who are Hindus? It is the same with Hindus too. He is a true Hindu who cultivates the crop of love in (the field of) his heart. But this crop of love is not to be found anywhere. Even the seeds of love are not sown, then how can you get the crop of love? How can you call such a person devoid of love as a Hindu?
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| There is only One Religion The Religion of Love |
Leave religion aside. (Understand the) Religion of Love. Because of religious differences there are conflicts. Wherever there are differences, there are fights. Therefore, if you want to enjoy happiness as one united group, without any conflicts, then you must set aside all differences. When once we know the language of the heart, the religion of love and the caste of humanity, there will be no scope for any conflicts. The entire humanity is one. Once you understand humanity, you will not find religion as something different.
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| There is only One God He is Omnipresent Image Source |
This world is Viswa Maatha (Universal Mother). All are the children of Viswa Maatha. All are brothers and sisters. You should not have any differences whatsoever. Our qualities may be different but essentially we are one. “Ekatvam Sarvam”. Everything is One. There is water in the river, there is water in the sea, there is water in the tank, there is water in the vessel, there is water in the pit – there is water everywhere. But the same sun gets reflected in all the water. The water may be different but the sun is One. The same sun cannot appear as different suns for all the parts of the world. In the same way, the Divinity gets reflected in the water of love in your heart. The Divinity may get reflected in any heart but you should not show any differences that it is “This God” or “That God”.
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| God is all Names God is all Forms Image Source |
The Romans addressed Jesus as ‘Persona’. ‘Persona’ means sacredness. The English word person has been derived from the word ‘Persona’. It means that since there is Divinity in everyone, they started calling everybody as ‘Person’. Every human being is the embodiment of Divinity. I and you are one. Therefore, all are Divine. There is Divine Atma (Spirit) in everybody. This very Atma or Self was termed as ‘Persona’. Thus in every human being, there is Divinity. There is no human without Divinity. There is no life principle without Divinity. There is no living being without Divinity. In every being there is Divinity.
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| All Masters preached noble and broad feelings |
Truly speaking, be it Jesus or Rama, or Krishna or Govinda, or Zoroaster or Allah, all these noble Masters preached very broad and expansive feelings. But no religious people are following their good teachings. If the teachings of the Founder of a religion are not followed, can it be called a religion? Those who, in the name of religion, further their selfish interests, are bringing discredit to the very founder of the religion.
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| All Religions teach the same Principle of Oneness |
Although in terms of physical form and action, human beings appear different, in terms of the Spirit they are all one – this is the truth propagated by Christianity. It declared that all are the children of one Lord and it appealed to humans to develop the feeling of Brotherhood of Man and Fatherhood of God.
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| Unity in Diversity Image Source |
There is only one God, one goal, and one Divinity residing in every human being. Therefore, there are no differences between Hindus, Muslims and Christians on this basic concept. The essence of all the religions, the basis of all the scriptures, the goal of all the paths, is the Divine Principle alone. But unfortunately without going by this Truth and without walking along the path of Truth, based on their feelings, people are getting on to the wrong path.
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| All are One, My dear Son Be Alike to Everyone |
No founder of any religion has ever preached hatred towards other religions. All religions have preached the Oneness of God. Lord Jesus declared that the being (Jiva) or the life principle in all the human bodies is one and the same. When Jesus was being harassed by the Jews, an ethereal voice declared, “All lives are one, my dear Son. Be alike to everyone.” When Jesus was being crucified, the same ethereal voice declared that “Death is the dress of life”. The human body is only vesture for the Spirit. The dress of the human body can be changed regularly, and there is no suffering on account of this. This was the truth proclaimed by the Bharathiya Vedanta, “Deho Devaalaya Prokto, Jeevo Deva Sanaatanaah” (the human body is a temple of God in which the Eternal Spirit resides as the Indweller). The ancient Lord dwells in this relatively new body since time immemorial.
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| Different religions propagated different forms of God |
The sacred Vedas propagated the Truth in many ways such as “Satyannaasti Paro Dharmah” – there is no higher Dharma than Truth itself; “Satyasya Satyam” – The Truth of Truths. Such a Divine entity which is the very form of Truth, has been propagated by the religious founders, to various nations, in many different ways and with many different feelings. The Chaarvaakaas (people following a system of Indian philosophy that is characterized as a materialistic and atheistic school of thought), without paying any heed to the Truth, decided that such a God who is the embodiment of Truth does not exist at all. The Jains and the Buddhists also do not believe in the existence of such a God. However, it was Adi Shankara who preached that this (Truth) is an eternal, pure, formless and supreme principle. Such a whole and powerfully manifest principle of Brahma is known as the Atma by many. Others called it Rama, Krishna, Christ, Allah. The one God with different forms was worshipped by people with different feelings. However, we must give primary importance to the attributes in these various forms.
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| Never consider any one religion to be superior or inferior to the other |
When there is a downpour, the water that comes down is pure. The rain falls on mountains, hillocks, plains, rivers, oceans and so on. According to the situation and impact of the region through which the rain water passes, its name and form undergoes change. Because of these variations, it should not be thought that the water itself is different.
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| Paths are Many but the Goal is One! |
When rain pours down from the sky, pure water falls on the rivers, seas, mountains and different regions of the earth. The pure water acquires the colour and taste based on the nature of the region or spot where it falls. Likewise, Prophets and Messiahs imparted their message in terms appropriate to the time, the place, the conditions and the feelings of the people concerned. Religions cannot be considered different from each other for this reason.
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| The same God is called by different names in different Religions Image Source |
Adored by Muslims as Allah,
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| Religion provides the bond between Individual and Divine |
Unity, fellow-feeling and devotion are essential for every human being. To promote these three sacred qualities in mankind, some great souls sought to establish different religions. Religion is not a restrictive concept. Religion shows the pathway for human development and goal of life. Religion brings out the humanness in man and enables him to live in harmony and happiness with his fellow-men. It provides the bond and relationship between the individual and the Divine. It demonstrates the unity that underlies the diversity.
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| Religion is Realization. Spirituality is to know Thyself |
In the very first instance we have to understand what religion is. Religion means Realization. What has got to be realized? Once you recognize who you are, you will be able to understand religion correctly. True spirituality is to recognize the Unity and know that the Self in you is the same Self present in everyone else. Spirituality is to know Unity in Diversity.
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| Image Source |
Buddhism declared that Truth and Non-violence are the basic requisites to manifest non-attachment, sacredness and Divinity in life.
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| The Four Inner Instruments (Antahkarana) of the Human Mind Image Source |
Students, the Manas (mind), the Buddhi (intellect), the Chitta (memory / awareness), and the Ahankaara(ego), constitute the Anthahkarana of the mind. What is the meaning of Antahkarana? Karana means instruments. Therefore, Antahkarana means inner instruments. Many describe these in so many complex ways like Vedanta (but it is very simple). The eyes see outside, the ears hear outside, the tongue speaks outside, the hands perform activities outside, the nose detects smells outside. All these have a certain form. But mind has no form. The intellect has no form. The memory or awareness has no form and even the ego has no form. The collective formlessness of these four instruments constitutes their true form. These (inner instruments) have four kinds of defects. The first is Braanthi(delusion), the second is Pramaadi (danger), the third is Karanaapaatana(weakness of the senses) and the fourth is Vipralipsa (jealousy). It is these four defects that pollute the Antahkarana.
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| Braanthi (Delusion) is what makes us see the unreal as real Image Source |
The first defect is Braanthi. It is delusion. What type of delusion is this? It refers to a state of mind in which a person mistakes, for instance, a rope for a snake and a snake for a rope. In other words, he regards the unreal (temporary) as real (permanent) and the real (permanent) as unreal (temporary). Such delusions invariably lead to accidents or dangerous situations (pramaadam). If you hold a snake thinking it is a rope, you are certainly in for trouble. Man today regards the body as real. No. No. The body is like a water bubble. We never know when, where and in what way it will burst. This is not real. The body is just a cage of bones (skeleton). It is full of faeces, urine, bad odour and flesh; and does not emanate any good fragrance (Bhagawan here uses a phrase “Punugu Javadi Puttabodu” Punugu is a civet cat, a nocturnal mammal native to tropical Asia and Africa, which historically has been the main species from which was obtained a musky scent used in perfumery; Javadi refers to a perfume like Pomatum. Therefore, Bhagawan says that the human body does not emanate any such fragrances). Assuming such a body to be real, we are losing the strength that is needed to put this body into proper use.
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| Sense Organs have no life of their own Image Source |
Students understand one thing clearly. Eyes, ears, mouth and nose all do exist. If we consider that it is the eyes which see, ears which hear, tongue which speaks (and nose which smells); then after death, we have the same eyes, same ears, same nose, and same tongue. Why does it not speak, why does it not see, why does it not hear? If you are the body verily, then why can you not see then (after death)? Because, the power that enables the eyes to see is absent.
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| Human Body is like a Big Torch Light Image Source |
The human body is like a big torch light. The eyes are like the bulb of the torch. Buddhi (intellect) is like the switch. A big torch, a big bulb, and the switch is also on, but there is no light. Why? What is the reason? There are no cells in the torch. Because there are no cells in the torch, we do not get light. Our blood cells are like these cells and each blood cell is embedded with Divine energy. Sometimes, the cells may be there but their power would have been exhausted. That power is the Divine power. So long as this Divine Power is in the body, the body performs various functions.
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| Who belongs to whom? Who is related to whom? |
Considering this (human body) as real, we subject ourselves to danger. We do not repose our faith in those whom we ought to, but we place our faith in things in which we ought not to. How long can you have people whom you consider as “mine” and “belonging to me”. Who belongs to whom? Can you consider your parents who have brought you up all along and nurtured you in so many ways, as yours? Yes, so long as they are alive, you must respect them, you must serve them and you must satisfy them. This is your duty, your dharma. Everybody have their own respective duties. While coming into this world, nobody gets even a piece of cloth and while leaving the world, nobody even gives their address. Who is related to whom?
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| You are not thinking about the nuisance coming from within you |
Students of today are also like this. They are not making an attempt to understand their true nature. They aspire to know everything that is going on in foreign countries. What is going on in that country, what is going on in this country, you are trying to know everything that is going on in foreign regions; but are you putting in an effort to know what is going on in your own body? You are only receiving the news that is coming from outside, but you are not thinking about the nuisance that is coming from within you. Therefore, first of all realize your own Self (who you truly are). Try to rectify and correct yourself. Then you can try to mend others. This is the primary aspect that students must recognize first. Therefore, on account of delusion, danger sets in.
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| Karanaapaatana is the weakness of the senses Image Source |
The third defect is Karanaapaatanaa. What is Karanaapaatanaa? Karana means the sense organs (instruments). Apaatana means weakness. Therefore, the third defect is the weakness of the senses. The senses get affected by a disease. The mind experiences through these senses that are affected by the disease. Consequently, the mind also becomes diseased. What is this disease that affects the senses? Senses never represent to you things as they are. They always behave in accordance to the time (context).
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| Your Bull killed my Bull or my Bull killed your Bull? Image Source |
A small example: There was a great landlord who stayed in a village. He was the most senior person in all aspects in that village. In the same village, there was a farmer who came from the middle class of the society. One day, in a field on the outskirts of the village, the bull of the landlord (by name Reddy) and the bull of the middle class farmer were grazing. On account of some reason, the two bulls started fighting with each other. Due to this fight, there were some injuries in some parts of the body and the bull of the landlord fell down and died. The middle class farmer was terrified. The landlord is the head of the village, a very wealthy person, having a very great name. My bull has killed his bull. I wonder what punishment he will give me, thought the middle class farmer. Very frightened, he came running to the house of the Landlord.
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| When you get Jaundice, you see everything as yellow Image Source |
Thus senses suffer from a type of disease. Let us say you get malaria fever. Prior to this fever, whatever food you ate, spicy tasted as spicy, salty as salty, bitter as bitter, and sweet as sweet. But once you caught the Malaria fever, even when you ate a Laddu (sweet ball), it tasted bitter. Now, is this the defect of the object? No, it is the defect of the senses? When you are good and healthy, you see white as white, red as red and black as black. But once you get Jaundice, everything appears yellow to you. Thus, as the mind follows the senses that are affected by this disease, the mind also becomes diseased. Karanaapaatana implies that on account of the defects of the senses, humanity is deteriorating.
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| There is no medicine in this whole world for jealousy Image Source |
Vipralipsa means jealousy. Jealousy is a very bad quality in humans. One can never tolerate seeing someone else happy. When one sees someone else happy, one is not able to bear with it. There may be a medicine for any other disease in any nation, but for curing the disease of jealousy, there is no medicine in this entire world. Not being able to accept and bear with somebody else being happy, is a very bad quality in humans. Be happy when you see goodness / happiness (in others). Be happy when you see others giving happiness. But never develop jealousy towards this or that person.
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How is this selfishness present in students? When you get into any bus while travelling, there would be many old people, women, children and even sick people in the queue. Do you have a broad mind to think thus: “I am a student with a strong physique. Oh poor people, let them get a seat.” No. No. You feel that I alone must get a seat in the bus. Let anything happen to others. Because of such extreme selfishness, jealousy sets in. Give first priority to weak people, children and women. If you get a seat, fine. If not, walk a little distance. By walking you will get two types of conveniences and benefits. By walking, the body will have a good exercise. And also, if you walk for a mile, you will save the money that you would have been otherwise charged (had you taken the bus). This is the type of broadmindedness that you must develop.
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Students, in the very first instance, destroy the jealousy in you. You are the very embodiment of sacredness. The Vedas declare as such – Shrinwantu Vishwe Amritasya Putrah (Hark yea on the earth, the children of immortality). It declares – Son, you are the child of immortality. Therefore, develop Vishaal Buddhi(broad mindedness). Reduce the unsteadiness of your senses. Thereby, you will achieve purity of the mind. Then alone you will be a man with Trikarna Shuddhi (purity of three instruments – purity and unity of thought, word and deed).
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| See good, Hear good, Think good, Talk good, Do good |
Thus we can purify the mind and the Antahkarana and remove the dirt therein by Satkarma (good actions), Sadbhuddhi(good intellect), Sadaalochana (good thoughts) and Satchintana (good feelings). Thus it is said that you must see only good and should not see bad, you must hear only good and should not hear bad. So, first of all develop such feelings. There is only one requirement for Chitta Shuddhi (purity of the mind):
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| Youth is the right age to undertake cleansing of the Mind |
Therefore, students, mind by itself cannot see. It can see only through the senses. It cannot talk on its own. It can speak only through the senses. Thus, if we keep the senses in good shape, the mind will also remain pure and sacred. Therefore, you youth, when you have Deha Shakti (physical strength), Mana Shakti (mental strength), Adhyaatmika Shakti (spiritual strength) and Indriya Shakti (strength of the senses) all intact in this age; if you do not control your senses, how then can you control them in your old age? This is the time when you must earn God’s Grace to the maximum extent possible. When the tank is filled with rain water in Monsoon, the water can be used during the Summer. This is the best season for you. In this age you must increase God’s Grace on you and you must fill your heart with it. Only if you develop this now, you will have the opportunity to put it to good use in the future.
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| Seeing and yet, Not Seeing |
Likewise, it has been said: “Pasyannapicha Na Pasyathi Moodho” (Even while seeing, the fool does not see). That is, even while seeing God, experiencing God and enjoying God, he deludes himself saying, “I want to see God”. Such a person is a Moodho – a fool. Everything that man sees – is it not a manifestation of God? Everything that man experiences – is it not an expression of the Divine? All that man enjoys – is it not a form of the Divine? Is God to be found in any distinct place? Bliss is the very form of God. Everything that is seen is Divine. The world itself is God. Therefore, “Pasyannapicha Na Pasyathi Moodho”. Thus, man performs actions, but is under the delusion that he is not doing any action. He sees God, but is under the delusion that he is not seeing God. There are three reasons for this aberration. Mala, Vikshepa and Aavarana.
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| Mind is the basis for all this Creation |
Mano Moolam Idam Jagath – The entire creation is based on the mind. Whether it is happiness or sorrow, merit or sin, truth or untruth, injustice or violence; all these take place inside the mind of man. The mind is the cause for everything. Mana Eva Manushyaanaam Kaaranam Bandha Mokshayoho – The mind is the cause for both bondage and liberation. The mind is like a clean mirror. But it does not have a self-luminous capacity. It takes shelter under the sense organs. The mind sees through the eyes. It cannot see on its own. It hears through the ears, but has no capacity to hear on its own. In this manner, the mind carries out its work and functions through all the sense organs. Consequently, the offences committed by the senses are reflected in the mirror of mind. These sense organs are associated with the thought processes. Then, who is to be blamed and held responsible? The sense organs or the mind? No blame attaches to the mind per se. It is only the association with the senses that pollutes the mind. According to the Scriptures, the mind is subject to three kinds of defects: Mala, Vikshepa, and Aavarana.
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| Mala is dust on the mirror of the mind |
Mala refers to a mental state comparable to a dust-covered mirror. One can see one’s reflection clearly only when the dust on the mirror is wiped away. The heart that is naturally pure is covered by impurities created by the three gunas related to our life (Satva, Rajas and Tamas). These impurities can be removed only when we put in an effort. However, instead of removing these impurities, we are adding on more impurities to them. Consequently we are unable to perceive the unsullied, eternal Spirit (Atman) within us.
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| Mala is the dirt accumulated in the mind over births |
What is Mala? In life, man commits many offences, knowingly or unknowingly. Not only in this life but also in previous lives, birth after birth, many mistakes are committed. The dirt associated with these defects is imprinted on the chitta (memory), life after life, birth after birth. When dirt /dust gets accumulated on the surface of the mirror (of the mind), we cannot get a true reflection of ourselves in the mirror. On account of this, man is unable to see clearly the reflection of his real identity, recognize his true Self, in the mirror of his mind. Hence, it is necessary to put in efforts to cleanse the mirror of the impurities covering it. How can we clean this mirror? What is the methodology? What is the approach to be followed to clean the (mirror of the) mind? This cleansing is done by regulating one’s food and other living habits. Past is past. What is gone is gone. At least in the present we must follow the right path and make an effort to cleanse the mind.
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| Mala can be removed gradually by consuming pure food |
Students who are youth should consume pure food that is free from all defects. Under any circumstances, we must not partake of food that is associated with defects. Bhiksham Deharakshaartham, Vastram Sheetarakshanam (Food is for the purpose of nurturing the body and clothing is for protection from the cold). Food is given to protect the body. However, food that causes diseases in the body is not the right type of food. This is what the Bhagavad Gita preaches as an important dictum – Paatra Shuddhi (purity of the vessel), Paaka Shuddhi (purity of the cooking process, which includes purity of the cook), Padaartha Shuddhi (purity of the materials used).
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| A Diamond has to be cut a number of times to make it valuable |
By the above method (of consuming pure food that is free from defects), the dirt sticking on to the (mirror of the) mind can be removed gradually. Once again the mirror of the mind will become clean and pure. However, this cannot be achieved in one day, in one year or in just one trial.
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| Vikshepa is the unsteadiness of the mind |
The second defect (of the mind) is Vikshepa. The mind is like a mirror. So long as the mirror is wavering, the reflection in it also keeps wavering. Therefore, as the wavering mind keeps oscillating here and there, your reflection in it also keeps wavering. That is why Arjuna told Lord Krishna, “Chanchalam Hi Manah Krishna Pramaadi Balavadrudam”. He prayed to Lord Krishna, “I am unable to live with this wavering mind Krishna. It is highly dangerous and overpowering”.
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| If one has total faith doubts can never arise |
What do we mean by Vikshepa? Vikshepa refers to the phenomenon of constantly moving or wavering. What do we mean by this movement or wavering? The nature of the three Gunas (Satva, Rajas and Tamas) and the impact of the likes and dislikes of man, influence the mind and result in constant doubt in all aspects of life. Man’s entire life is filled with doubts. Whatever we undertake to do, the doubts as to “whether this will happen or not”, “whether I will be able to accomplish or not”, cause the mind to waver constantly. What is the reason for this? Lack of total faith is the cause for this doubt. If one has total faith, such doubts can never arise.
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| The nine types of devotion are prescribed to steady the mind |
What is the method to make this unsteady mind into a steady one? The nine forms of devotion (Navavidha Bhakti) have been prescribed for meditation, prayer and contemplation, so as to gradually steady the wavering mind.
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| We have right only on our actions Bend the body, Mend the senses, End the mind |
We need to make an effort to gradually reduce the wavering nature of the mind. That is concentration. What should we do in order to develop this concentration? We need to bend the body, mend the senses and end the mind. This is the process of attaining immortality. Therefore we need to bend the body, put in effort and perform our actions. Mend the senses – we need to earn the strength to keep the sense on the right track. We need to keep the mind under our control. Only when we keep the body, the senses and the mind under our control, will we be Masters. Else, we will be slaves.
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| Find out “Who am I?” |
Man must develop firm faith. Even if he does not have faith in God, it is fine; let him at least develop faith in himself. Faith in oneself is faith in God. There is no God separate from him. Whether one is an old man, a youth, a young child, a woman, a king, a farmer or a beggar; each one while referring to oneself will say, “I”, “I”. “I am a beggar”, “I am a king”, “I am a woman”, “I am a man”, “I am an old man”, “I am a youth”, “I am a young child”. In all these, we find the common principle of “I”. This principle of “I” is the Atma. Man is using this word “I” from dawn to dusk without understanding its true significance. The word is being used in a futile manner and thus life is getting wasted. We say, “My body”. That means the body exists separate from you, is it not? Then, who are you? Man is not making an effort to enquire into this Truth. Vikshepa means having doubts. This makes man’s life unstable. Unsteadiness can never result in peace. Peace runs away from an unsteady heart (mind). We should therefore put in an effort to develop steadiness (of the mind).
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| Aavarana is the desire that has engulfed the mind |
The third defect is Aavarana. What is it that has engulfed us? Our desires have engulfed us. Man is bound by his desires. He is engulfed by desires in front of him, behind him, above him and below him. In whatever state man is; in whatever he talks, hears, does or thinks; his desires do not leave him. Man is bound by the rope of desires. Dhana vancha (desire for wealth), Adhikara vancha (desire for power), Aarogya vancha (desire for good health), Keerti vancha (desire for fame and repute), and many more desires engulf him.
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| Aavarana is the thick cloth that covers the mirror of the mind |
What is Aavarana? If you cover the mirror with a thick cloth, will you be able to see your reflection in it? Certainly not. On account of the Mala, we are seeing our reflection as a dirty one; on account of Vikshepa, we are seeing our reflection as a wavering one. We consider this wavering as our nature. We defend ourselves saying that all this is natural as I have this human body. On account of Aavarana, we think that we have no true form at all. We start considering this body itself as our true form.
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| Offer all your actions to God Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham |
Desires are not wrong. One needs to have desires, but there must be a limit to it. Man is getting bound on account of limitless desires. We have to make an effort to gradually reduce our desires. Perform all your actions, experience all the worldly joy and comforts, but recognize the truth that the results of all your actions are in the hands of God. Whatever actions you do, do it with the feeling that you should please God (Bhagavat Prityaartham). Such a sacrifice alone will enable the blossoming of man’s nature.
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| The six vices cover the mind as Aavarana |
What is the thick cloth that covers the mirror (of the mind)? It is the cloth of six vices – Kaama (desire), Krodha (anger), Lobha(greed), Moha (attachment), Mada (pride), Maatsarya (jealousy).
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| Eight forms of pride cover the mind as Aavarana |
Dhana madam (pride of wealth), Vidya madam (pride of scholarship), Kula madam (pride of lineage), Aishwarya madam (pride of prosperity), Saundarya madam (pride of beauty), Yauvana madam (pride of youth), Tapa madam (pride of penance) [the eight one is most likely Pada madam – pride of position or status based on Discourse given on 07-07-1990] – these are the eight forms of pride that are covering the mirror (of the mind). For how long does this wealth last? It will slip away. Just like the water slips away below your feet, so too one can never say when wealth will slip away. How long does youth last? Just like a flash of lightning, youth comes and goes away. What is Vidya madam – pride of scholarship? Are there not people far more scholarly than you in this world? Compared to them, what is your level of scholarship after all? If we enquire in this manner there is no scope for us to feel any pride at all. This is just an illusion or delusion.
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| Love is the only way to remove Aavarana |
Therefore, to remove the thick cloth (that has covered the mirror of our mind), we need to develop love. This love is primary. It is the manifest form of God. Thus, Love is God, live in Love. With this sacred love, we would be able to conquer anything. Other than the rope of love, there is no other way to unite all the people and enable their progress.
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| The Eight Fold Path of Yoga |
In spiritual saadhana, there are eight Yogic disciplines to be observed: Yama, Niyama, Aasana, Praanaayaama, Prathyaahaara, Dhaarana, Dhyaana, and Samaadhi (sense restraint, observing rules, discipline of the body, breath-control, withdrawal of senses from objects, concentration, meditation and the Super Conscious state). Of these, the first is Yama. The second set of disciplines is covered by the term Niyama. It consists of five practices: Soucham (purity); Tapas (austerity); Santhosham (contentment); Swaadhyaayam (study of scriptures); Easwara Pranidhaanam (offering to the Lord).
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| Inner and outer Cleanliness – Both are Important |
Soucham (cleanliness) is of two kinds–external cleanliness and internal cleanliness. External purity is achieved by the use of water and cleaning agents. But apart from bodily cleanliness, everything that we use in our in daily life must be clean. The clothes that we wear, the bed that we sleep on, the books that we read, the house where we live, all these must be pure and clean. All organs/limbs of the body have to be kept completely pure and clean. That is why early in the morning, as soon as we arise, practices like brushing the teeth, washing the mouth, washing the face are prescribed not only for maintaining perfect health, but also to enjoy a state of bliss. The environment around us should also be kept clean. As regards internal purity, it should be noted that the mind is polluted by bad thoughts and by attachments and aversions. There is no scope for sacred thoughts to manifest in such a polluted mind. Qualities like love, kindness, compassion, forbearance and sympathy have to be developed to purify the polluted mind.
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| Real Penance is to Purify the Mind with Sacred Feelings |
The second value is Tapas. Tapas does not mean merely practising certain postures like keeping the head down and the legs up. Real penance consists in constantly thinking and striving for the realisation of one’s higher aims by maintaining purity in thought, word and deed. Such Taapamu (thirst or striving) becomes Tapas. I must achieve my goal – you must constantly keep thinking of this at all times and in all situations. “Sathatham Yoginah” (Always be established in Yoga), it is said. We must always yearn for the realisation of the Formless and Attributeless Absolute (Atman). That yearning turns into penance in due course. We must experience the unity between what we think, what we say and what we do. This is the contemplation of God with purity and unity of thought, word and deed. With this type of Tapas (penance) it is possible to attain the Paratatva(Transcendental principle) which is attributeless and formless. Merely leaving the hometown, going to the forest, wearing leaves and thus wasting one’s life in futility does not constitute penance. To free ourselves from evil thoughts is true penance. Penance is not giving up property and home and going to the forest. To get rid of evil thoughts and passions is Yoga or penance. To purify the mind with sacred feelings is real penance.
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| Contentment gives Real Happiness or Santhosham |
Next value is Santhosham. When can we get Santhosham (happiness)? Man can experience joy and happiness only when he has contentment. As desires grow, discontent grows and worries multiply. We must learn to be content with what we have. We must enjoy with whatever we have. We must never entertain excessive desires. Therefore, we will experience happiness only when we remain contended. He who has got much satisfaction is the richest man. Thus, we must always remain contended, that is what will give us happiness.
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| Swaadhyaayam means we must always keep reading some sacred texts. |
The fourth value is Swaadhyaayam. This does not mean merely study of the Vedas. All the basic triple scriptures (Prasthaan Trayee) – the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and the Brahma Sutras shouldbe studied. One must be acquainted with all sacred literature. Swaadhyaayam means we must always keep reading some sacred texts. Thereby one gets rid of impurities in the mind.
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| Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham |
The fifth value is Easwara Pranidhaanam. Whatever actions that we undertake should be pleasing to the Lord. In whatever action we perform, the question must be asked, “Will this please the Lord or not?”, “Will God be satisfied by this act or not?” We must undertake this kind of enquiry in every action of ours and we must perform only such actions that will please the Lord. God means in effect your conscience. You should not do anything which does not give you Atma-trupti (self-satisfaction). Your own conscience will punish you if you go against it. Your own mind will cause pain to you if you perform actions that do not give self-satisfaction. Therefore, we must nurture good feelings and undertake only such actions that yield self-satisfaction. In the Vedantic parlance, this is called, ‘Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham”. Only when you undertake actions that are pleasing to the Lord, good things will be bestowed on you.
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| Students must enter into all domains of life and make a positive impact therein. |
Only when one observes Yama and Niyama, it would amount to achieving the four Purushaarthaas (goals) of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha). It would also amount to the practice of Samaand Dama. We are not able to see the practice of these human values as prescribed in Yama and Niyama, in the students of these days. That is why the hearts of students is polluted today. Students must have a sacred heart. They should shape themselves into future responsible citizens. The good or bad of the nation rests on the shoulders of these students. Students must enter into all domains of life – worldly, ethical, moral, spiritual and scientific; and make a positive impact therein.
http://hismessagehisvoice.blogspot.in/2012/05/five-human-values-prescribed-in-yama.html
The five universal Human Values that form the anchor of Bhagawan’s Message are well known to all of us. These are Sathya (Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Shanti (Peace), Prema (Love) and Ahimsa(Non-violence). However, lesser known to all of us is the fact that Bhagawan has, on more than one occasion, drawn attention to the five practices prescribed in both Yama and Niyama – the first two steps of the Ashtanga Yoga that form part of the Patañjali Yoga Sūtras; calling them the true human values to be followed by mankind. Bhagawan says it is enough if people follow these values prescribed in Yama and Niyama. It would amount to following all the human values.
A Brief Introduction to Ashtanga Yoga:
01-Introduction to Ashtanga Yoga-Focus on Yama-1.48-1996 January 18
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| Sage Patanjali – Author of Ashtanga Yoga |
In spiritual saadhana, there are eight Yogic disciplines to be observed: Yama, Niyama, Aasana, Praanaayaama, Prathyaahaara, Dhaarana, Dhyaana, and Samaadhi (sense restraint, observing rules, discipline of the body, breath-control, withdrawal of senses from objects, concentration, meditation and the Super Conscious state). Of these, the first is Yama. It is enough if this single discipline is understood and observed. All human values are comprised in it. Humanness is embedded in it. Yama includes the Pancha Praanaas (five-breaths), Pancha Bhuthaas (five elements), Pancha Koshaas (five sheaths), Pancha Thathvaas (five basic principles), and Pancha Rupaas (five forms). The five forms are the form of Gaayathri. The five basic principles are: Ahimsa, Sathyam, Aastheyam, Brahmacharyam and Aparigraha (Non-violence, Truth, Non-covetousness, Celibacy, and Non-possessiveness). These five constitute Yama.
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| Ashtanga Yoga |
What are the human values? Only when the inner significance of Yama and Niyama is properly understood, humanity will find fulfilment. Yama includes the following practices: Ahimsa (Non-violence); Sathyam (Truth); Aastheyam (Non-stealing); Brahmacharyam (Continence/Celibacy) and Aparigraha (not receiving anything from others).
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| Ahimsa Paramo Dharmah |
The first value is Ahimsa. Buddha attached great importance to Ahimsa. He considered it the foremost Dharma (duty). “Ahimsa Paramo Dharmah” declared Buddha. What does Ahimsa signify? It is not merely refraining from causing harm or injury or pain to others. Just by not hurting others, one cannot be called non-violent. Non-violence, apart from not causing harm to others, also implies refraining from causing harm to oneself. One who harms oneself cannot avoid harming others. Whoever desires to observe Ahimsa must first see to it that she/he does not commit violence unto herself/himself. How is this to be ensured? By constantly examining whether one’s conduct is right or wrong. For instance, in the matter of speech, one must examine whether one’s words are causing pain to others or not. One must ensure that one’s looks are not tainted by evil intentions or thoughts. One should not listen to evil talk. All these cause harm to the individual. Hence, one should give no room for bad looks, bad hearing, bad speech, bad thoughts and bad actions.
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| Abhor Violence in Thought, Word and Deed |
Ahimsa does not mean, as is commonly understood, not causing harm to others. How can we not cause harm to others? What is the true meaning of Ahimsa? It really means that one should not cause harm to anyone in thought, word or deed. Therefore, not harming anyone with the purity of thought, word and deed is non-violence. This is the most important human value. Only when this has been developed, will one be qualified to practise and experience the second value of Truth.
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| Dedicate all your actions to the Divine This will save you from the consequences of involuntary violence |
You should be careful not only with regard to how you relate to the five elements, but also with regard to your food. Excessive eating amounts to violence to the body. Moderation in food is conducive to happiness. Thus, Ahimsa (non-violence) is what confers happiness on you. That which hurts you is Himsa (violence). Not just this. Even in drinking water, you should observe restraints. Likewise, one’s entire life should be governed by the principle of non-violence. Many germs die when one takes a bath or walks or does any other action. Even in the process of breathing many germs die. Violence is present in all these activities. Therefore, to avoid the consequences of such involuntary violence to living creatures, one is advised to dedicate all actions to the Divine. But, there is no meaning in dedicating to the Divine, conscious acts of violence. The conscience will not approve of such conduct. In Vedantic parlance, the conscience is called Chith. It is also called Awareness. Awareness is total understanding. This total understanding is within the capacity of every human being. Everyone must strive to acquire this awareness. Thus, Ahimsa is the primary duty of man.
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| Adhere to Truth in Thought, Word and Deed |
Truth does not mean merely speaking honestly with the tongue. Truth remains unchanging in all the three times. Truth must be adhered to with the purity of thought, word and deed. One must not take recourse to falsehood either through the mind, or words or actions. Therefore, speaking the truth with the unity of thought, word and deed is Sathyam. This is the second human value.
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| Speak the Truth that is Pleasant and Soothing |
The second value is Sathyam. Truth does not merely mean speaking factually about what is seen or heard or done. Truth transcends all the three times. Anudvega Karam Vaakyam, Satyam Preeti Hitam Chayat. The truth which is spoken must be pleasant and soothing. It must not agitate the one who hears it. Truth must not be spoken in a way that it hurts others. At the same time, just because it is pleasant for others to hear, one must not speak the untruth. That which is spoken with humility, with unity of mind-tongue-body and in a way that appeals to others is Truth. Students must necessarily follow this path of Truth. Human being’s life is based on Truth. It is sacred, Divine and most precious. It is a life worthy of living. However, treading along the path of untruth, for the purpose of selfishness and self-interest, we are wasting our life in futility.
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| Sathyam, Jnaanam, Anantham Brahma |
The second value is Sathyam (Truth). What is Truth? Truth is not merely telling the facts about what you see or hear or do. These are temporal truths. In its full sense, Truth relates to what comes out of your heart in the form of the voice of conscience. This Sathyam (Truth) is also called Ritham. It is true for all time: past, present and the future. It is not affected by changes in time, place or circumstances. It is unchanging and cannot be suppressed. Truth is its own proof. It is the form of the Divine as declared in: Sathyam, Jnaanam, Anantham Brahma (Truth, Wisdom and Infinite is Brahman – the Absolute Self). Truth is thus the second human value.
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| Refrain from Stealing in Thought, Word and Deed |
Astheyam means refraining from stealing what belongs to others. Not just refraining from stealing with the hand, but even the thought of taking another’s property should not arise in the mind. Nor should one encourage others to commit theft. Therefore, Aastheyammeans refraining from stealing others’ property with purity of thought, word and deed. This is the third human value.
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| You may use others’ property, but only with their permission |
The third value is Astheyam (non-stealing). What is Astheyam? Astheyam means not stealing the properties of others. Property should not be confined to physical objects like a book or a pen. When you need anything, there is nothing wrong in your taking it with the permission of the owner. To take or use any object without such permission amounts to stealing. Even to criticize someone in a way that harms her/him amounts to theft (of her/his good name). What is the meaning of theft? To take hold of an item that does not belong to you. Every object has an owner. We may make use of that object only after seeking permission from the owner.
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| Brahmacharyam means living in Brahman |
The next value is Brahmacharyam. Brahmacharyam is interpreted in many ways by the people of the world. One meaning is remaining unmarried. This is not the correct meaning. This meaning is only from the worldly point of view. The true literal meaning of the term is “Moving in Brahman.” Brahmacharya means ceaseless contemplation of God. Charya means moving or treading. Brahmacharya means “moving in Brahman”, or “treading along the path of Brahman”. Brahmacharya should not be imagined to be related to the physical losses, difficulties, sorrow or worry. Mere bachelorhood is not Brahmacharyam. Such a person may be called as just “unmarried”.
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| Brahmacharyam is like the Foundation for the other stages of life |
It may be impossible to observe Brahmacharyam in the way that it is normally understood by the world. We should not allow the mind to get into wrong thoughts, wrong words or wrong actions. True Brahmacharyam means living constantly in Brahma (the contemplation of the Absolute). Brahmavid Brahmaiva Bhavati. In practical life, this means dedicating all thoughts, all speech and all actions to the Divine. Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham. Considering oneself as Brahma and performing everything as an offering to Brahma is true Brahmacharyam. Continous study of the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Brahmasutraas and other scriptures also constitutes Brahmacharyam. Brahmacharyam is the foundation for the other stages in life: Grihastha (householder), Vaanaprastha (recluse) and Sanyaasa (renunciant). If the foundation of Brahmacharyam is not strong and firm, the other stages of Grihastha (householder), Vaanaprastha (recluse) and Sanyaasa (renunciant) will get shaky and may even fall. Therefore, for the mansion of life, Brahmacharyam is very important. It must be pure, unwavering, unselfish and egoless.
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| Atma-Aham-Thought-Word-Deed |
The fourth value is Brahmacharyam. Many interpretations are given to this value from the worldly point of view. These are not correct. Observance of Brahmacharyam means: whatever one thinks, says or does should be filled with thoughts of Brahman, the Supreme Divinity. To be ever immersed in the consciousness of Brahman is Brahmacharyam. All thoughts, words and deeds should be dedicated to the Divine. This is called “Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham”.
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| Perform all actions without any expectation of reward |
The fifth practice is Aparigraha. This is usually interpreted as not accepting other’s property as gift or in charity. This is not the correct meaning. It really means performing actions without expecting any reward; without any acquisitive motives. We must perform all actions without any ego, attachment, self-interest or selfish motive. Only then can we claim to have practised Aparigraha. Today because actions are done out of self-interest and selfishness, out of ego and attachment, they lack true human quality. If we wish to foster human values then we must perform all our actions with purity and unity of thought, word and deed. We must undertake all work without any expectations of the fruits thereof. Even worship, religious ceremonies, pilgrimages and the like are done with some kind of expectations and not in a spirit of disinterested devotion or worship or sadhana. This cannot be called true human value.
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| Receive benefits only from Parents, Guru or God |
The fifth value is Aparigraha. The Upanishads have regarded Parigraha (acquiring things from others) as sinful. Whatever help we may render to others, we should do it without expectation of any return. It is natural for human beings to reap the fruits of their actions. However, the scriptures advise exercise of caution in this regard. One is entitled to receive benefits only from one’s father, mother, Guru and God, but not from others. As God is the creator, sustainer and protector, you have the right to claim anything from God. From your parents you can receive what they are in a position to give, according to their capacity. But you should not trouble them by seeking more than that from them. From the preceptor you must receive only knowledge. From the preceptor, who teaches you what promotes your well-being, you have to seek ways of satisfying him and not any other benefits.
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| Never accept dowry during marriage. It is a sin. |
The fifth discipline is Aparigraha. This means not accepting things from others. You have every right to receive gifts or other things from your parents. You are the very reflection of your parents and hence you can accept from them whatever they give. Aparigraha has certain subtle implications. For instance, it is not proper to accept gifts from one’s in-laws or even from one’s brothers. When any gifts are received from these relatives you have to make good by giving them back some equivalent presents. Today the Aparigraha aspect is being blatantly violated.
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| Students – Enter all domains of life and make a positive impact |
Only when one observes Yama and Niyama, it would amount to achieving the four Purushaarthaas (goals) of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha). It would also amount to the practice of Samaand Dama. We are not able to see the practice of these human values as prescribed in Yama and Niyama, in the students of these days. That is why the hearts of students is polluted today. Students must have a sacred heart. They should shape themselves into future responsible citizens. The good or bad of the nation rests on the shoulders of these students. Students must enter into all domains of life – worldly, ethical, moral, spiritual and scientific; and make a positive impact therein.
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| Give up Meat eating, Drinking and Smoking |
Truth, Righteousness, Peace and Love are the human values. The one who nurtures these values is a true human being. Food plays a very significant role in nurturing these human values. Embodiments of Love! Do not take what I am saying in a wrong way. On this sacred day of Vijaya Dasami, take an oath to give up vices such as smoking, drinking, and partaking of non-vegetarian food. Give up these three habits and you will develop a sacred heart.
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| A True Devotee of God must give up eating Meat |
How do we get rid of bad feelings, selfishness and self-interest, pomp and ego? These qualities arise on account of food and habits. Today, be it anyone, but those who consider themselves as devotees of God, must give up eating non-vegetarian food. Why? Because consumption of the meat of animals, nurtures animal qualities in man. In Hindi language it is said, “Jaise Anna, Vaise Man” meaning “As is the food, so is the mind”. As is the food, so is the belching. If you eat a mango, can you get the belching with the taste of a cucumber? No, you will get belching with the taste of a mango only. When you partake of the meat of cruel animals, the quality of cruelty develops in you too. Not only this. What a great sin it is to consume life that is made up of five elements and which we see manifest with the senses of sound, feeling, form, taste and smell? Apart from developing demonic qualities, what a great sin it is to kill another being that is made up of the same five elements that the human body is made up of. Committing such a sin gives rise to worry. Therefore true devotees and those who aspire to be true devotees, must give up eating non-vegetarian food. People say they are Sai devotees, Rama devotees, Krishna devotees; but they sit and eat chicken! How can such people be true devotees? They are actually demons. They will never be the recipients of God’s Grace. Therefore, be it Indians or people from overseas; those who wish to follow Bhagawan’s command must give up meat eating immediately.
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| Non-vegetarians are prone to many more diseases than vegetarians |
The name of this world is “Jagath”. “Ja” means “Coming” and “Gath” means “Going”. The very name of this world – “Jagath” means “Coming and Going”. Once we know this truth, why should we worry? We must not give any scope for such worry. Only then, will human beings gain the deservedness to realize the Divinity in them. Except for human beings no other beings have this unique opportunity of realizing Divinity. For this, food and habits play a very important role. Among 84 lakhs of spices that exist in this creation, 83,99,999 species enjoy food that is provided by Nature. All birds and animals live on natural foods and are therefore not prone to many diseases. But human beings alone, swayed by the taste of the tongue, carried away by various tastes, transform the natural food into various forms based on their imaginations. They cook the food and make it into Kurmas (a dish originating in South Asia or Central Asia; it is usually considered a type of curry). But they do not realize how this reduces their life span. Even among human beings, those who consume vegetables are less prone to diseases. But those who consume meat are prone to more diseases. Why? Because, vegetarian food alone provides the right type of balance that is needed by human beings. This is a human body and that is an animal body. The two do not gel well each other.
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| Inspire your parents also to give up non-vegetarian food |
A small example: In a house, once every week, they used to prepare mutton. When our students go home, parents say, “Oh my dear son, you have been in Puttaparthi for one long year, you have not eaten any chicken, sheep or fish”. Saying so, they prepare all the dishes and serve the children with love. However, the son should say, “Mother, I will not do this bad act. Why should I kill one being to keep this being alive? This is not good for me. You are going just by the body. You are offering flesh to this body which is made up of the very same flesh. We must offer nectar to this body made up of flesh. We must partake of sacred food. We must partake of food given to us by God. We should not eat non-vegetarian food that enhances our bad qualities and bad actions. When once the children keep telling like this again and again, parents too will get transformed. I know of many such cases. After the children have come to our college, through them, their parents too have given up non-vegetarian food.
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| A True Devotee of God must give up drinking Alcohol/Liquor |
The second aspect; we drink water. There is life in water. It contains life force in it. Water is a sacred aspect of God. Water originates from God; from the hair locks of Lord Shiva (as the Ganges). Giving up such sacred water and taking to drinking liquor / alcohol is a big mistake. Alcoholism is very cruel. It makes you forget yourself. It makes you lose your respect, lose your human qualities and makes you forget God. A drunken man does not even know what he is doing, talking or listening. He keeps on rambling. How shameful it is to see people in this state. One tends to laugh to see how such people, though being born as human beings, behave like beings without life. This is not good. Drinking (liquor/alcohol) also leads to destruction of many families. All the money that one earns is spent on this evil habit and the man is not able to take care of his own wife and children. With all the wealth, what is the use if one cannot foster one’s own parents, wife and children? The root cause of these evils is alcoholism.
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| Non-vegetarians and Alcohol addicts are more prone to Heart Ailments |
It is the primary responsibility of human beings to prevent themselves from becoming a victim of any disease. When one’s food and habits is well regulated, there would be no scope for any disease at all. It is said that proteins and vitamins are very essential for human beings. Non-vegetarian food and addiction to alcohol are the root causes for heart ailments and other major diseases. Research has revealed that people who consume vegetarian food are far less prone to heart ailments than those who consume non-vegetarian food and alcohol. Even the vegetarian food that is consumed should be balanced and wholesome. It should contain liberal doses of Vitamin C and Vitamin E, which are available amply in green leaves and carrots. The presence of these vitamins prevents heart ailments in a large measure. Therefore one should ensure the intake of these vitamins in good quantity.
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| A True Devotee of God must give up the habit of Smoking |
Along with drinking (alcohol), some also smoke cigarettes. Because of smoking, humans are subject to many diseases. Asthma, Eosinophilia and Cardiac ailments arise on account of smoking. If an individual smokes even once, she/he is prone to get cancer. The impact of smoking can be actually demonstrated. Take a white cloth and after having taken a deep puff, blow air onto the white cloth. You will find dark spots appearing on the cloth. If it can make such an impact on the cloth itself, you can imagine what impact it can make when it gets into the human blood stream. It ruins one’s health and shortens one’s life-span. Therefore, those who aspire to become true devotees of God have to give up meat, liquor and smoking. No government can stop these habits. The feelings have to transform individuals from within. It is only mental transformation that can bring about a change. Each one must recognize the truth and conduct oneself accordingly.
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| I am always Happy!! If you wish to offer me a Gift on My Birthday, give up Eating Non-vegetarian food, Drinking Alcohol and Smoking |
Embodiments of Love! You are deeming this day as the 69th Birthday of Swami. I have no desire to celebrate such birthdays. As I was coming (for Darshan), I was greeted by many wishing Me “Happy Birthday”. I am always happy. Why should anyone wish “Happy Birthday” to Me? Be happy yourselves. Your happiness is My happiness.
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| Paatra Shuddhi, Paaka Shuddhi and Padaartha Shuddhi |
Our students know this very well. Before eating food, we offer the food to God – Brahmaarpanam Brahmahavir. Why should we offer the food to God? There are three types of defects that are associated with the food items: Paatra Shuddhi (purity of the vessel in which the food is cooked), Paaka Shuddhi (purity of the process of cooking) and Padhaartha Shuddhi(purity of the materials used for cooking). When all these three are pure, the mind will also be pure. When these three are not pure, impure feelings will arise in us. So first is Paatra Shuddhi– to some extent we may be able to take care of this aspect; but Padhaartha Shuddhi – purity of the materials; how do we take care of this? What you may have bought from which shop? How would the shopkeeper himself have bought these materials? From whom would he have bought the vegetables? It is not possible to look into all these details. Thus it is not always possible to ensure the purity of the materials used for cooking. Next is Paaka Shuddhi– how do we know what feelings the cook may entertain while cooking the food? If he cooks the food with bad feelings, these bad feelings will get into the cooked food too.
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| The disturbed Sanyasi and the impact of food |
Embodiments of Love! Even if it may take some more time, have your food only after praying and offering it to God. Only then the food will become sanctified and will illumine your intellect. Once upon a time there was a hermitage near Sivananda’s Ashram in Hrishikesh. There lived a number of celibates over there and free Chapatis (food) were distributed to all. The residents of the hermitage also partook of the same food. In that hermitage, there lived a sacred and noble Sanyasi (recluse). One day a businessman donated money to prepare food for the ashramites on the eleventh day after the demise of his young wife. However, this food turned out to be poisonous. What was the poison? How did the young girl (wife of the businessman) die? The businessman was aged. However, being rich, he somehow had enticed the girl’s father with money and married his young daughter. The young girl spent her time languishing that her father had destroyed her life in this manner. Disgusted by leading such a life, one day she jumped into the Ganges and ended her life. The businessman was performing the obituary rites on the eleventh day. He distributed the food so prepared, to all close by ashrams.
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| God is always within us in the form of Vaishvaanarah |
You are aware that everyday you chant the following prayer before partaking your food:
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| Inspire parents also to chant the mantra before eating food |
When you pray, “Brahmaarpanam, Brahmahavir…” before eating your food, parents too will watch you and think, ‘Wow! See how much devotion he has”. Then you must tell your parents, ‘Mother, the food that is gifted to us by God, must be offered to God first and then we must consume the same. Once we offer the food to God, it no longer remains as food. It gets transformed into Prasaadam. There will no defects in the Prasaadam. Once you tell your parents like this, they too will get the desire and will start chanting the prayer. This, if we wish to bring about a change in the parents, we can do so through their very children.
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| It is not desirable to watch TV while eating food |
Some foolish students consider this practice of chanting the prayer before consuming food in the Hostel, as a forced discipline. Such students chant the prayer so long as they are in the Hostel. Once they go home, they do not chant any prayer. They eat food with useless thoughts and lead a meaningless life. And do you know how the process of dining takes place these days?
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| We must eat food with a serene and peaceful mind |
While eating our food everyday, we should not indulge in discussion of topics which will cause agitation, sorrow, or anger. It is essential to partake our food with a serene and peaceful mind, with sacred feelings, and with Divine thoughts. Mental tension is responsible for ill health. These days, in the modern age, we engage in some perverted acts while eating. We tend to watch TV, video, etc., while eating food. This leads to impurity in the mind. We must make every effort to prevent our minds from becoming impure.
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| We must ensure that no negative vibes get into us while eating food |
Even while eating food, the T.V. is kept in front, in the Dining Hall. People watch T.V. even while partaking their food. The result is that, not just the food, but even all the foul things seen on the T.V. are being consumed by the viewer. Full concentration is only on the T.V. This concentration in viewing T.V. (Drushti) affects one’s view of the world (Srushti). The scenes, thoughts and actions displayed on the T.V. give rise to similar thoughts and feelings and actions in the viewer. Unknowingly, agitations and ill feelings enter the minds. One starts wondering as to why such thoughts and feelings that were never there in her/him before, have started appearing now. All these thoughts and feelings arise because of the seed sown while watching television. In due course the seeds take root and sprout in the minds.
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| Talk less, Eat less |
Students should get into the world, and transform all the restlessness that is troubling the people, into peace. Develop restraint in your talk. We do not need excessive talk. Ati Bhaashaa Mati Hani, Mita Bhaashaa Ati Hayi – Excessive talk will make you mad (lose your mind); Restraint in talk will lead to happiness and welfare. Similarly, Ati Tindi Mati Hani, Mita Tindi Ati Hayi – Eating too much will make you mad (lose your mind); Restraint in food will lead to happiness and welfare. If you simply keep on eating till you get a full throated belching, then what work can you do? You must stop eating when you still have the feeling that you can eat some more. If you eat excessively, you can neither do any work, nor can you achieve success. Thus talk within limits, eat within limits. Work more and experience more joy. You may undertake any activity, but never forget the name of God!
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| Observe moderation in eating habits |
Embodiments of Divine Atma! It is essential to observe the principle of moderation in food habits, daily conduct, work and sleep. The Buddha preached the same principle of moderation to his disciples. “Be always moderate, never indulge in excess,” proclaimed the Buddha. In fact, moderation is the royal road to happiness. Excesses in any field of activity will lead to lack of peace. Today, man does not exercise any moderation in his eating habits. On account of eating whatever and wherever he gets anything, he loses his good health. Man spends his entire time in filling his stomach only. On account of this, not only does man lose his health but his digestive system also gets damaged. Food is very necessary for good health. The food consumed by man should be proper, pure and wholesome.
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| 1500 to 2000 calories of food per day is adequate to keep you healthy |
It is atrocious that men today are experiencing ignorance that is making them behave in a manner that is against human nature. Their mind is becoming worse than those of wild animals in the forest. They have become cruel, pitiless, hard-hearted and are hurting others. There is no interpersonal relationship and understanding between man and man. The main reason for this condition is the kind of food that is consumed. Students! Be careful about the food you eat. Enquire as to what type of food will give you health and happiness. The ancients used to eat twice a day. The Rishis and sages used to eat only once a day. They declared that the man who eats only once is a Yogi (God-centred person), the one who eats twice a day is a Bhogi (enjoyer) and the one that eats thrice a day is a Rogi (a sick man). Today, not just thrice; people go on consuming food at all times, not to mention drinks, coffee and snacks in between. Thus when the inert body with an impaired digestive system is overfed with all such varieties of food, what else can one expect other than the onset of indigestion?
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| As is the food, so is the mind |
Today man is becoming a victim of limitless desires. The food that man eats has also got to be Satvic in nature. Apart from intoxicants like non-vegetarian food, alcohol and cigarettes; living on ill-gotten money also causes ill-health to some extent. Living on earnings got by unjust means causes many unknown diseases to take root in us. It is said in Hindi “Jaise Anna Vaise Man” (as is the food, so is the mind).
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| Exercise caution while consuming cheese, curd and milk |
You must have your food at the right time. With regard to food, you have to know certain subtle things and observe some restrictions. You should not consume non-vegetarian food like meat and fish. In fact, foreigners are used to non-vegetarian food only. This type of food causes diseases like cancer. Hence, give up such food, totally. Not only that. They also like cheese very much. The more you consume cheese, the weaker you become. You should also not take milk in excess quantity. Too much milk is very bad. It should be in limit. The milk should be diluted with water in equal proportion. Same is the case with curd. We consider thick curd as very good. No, it should not be thick. It should be semi-solid. Thus, you have to control the food you eat daily. Proper control of food is very much necessary for contemplating on God. If you take proper food and observe discipline in your habits, you are sure to have God’s Darshan (Vision) at that very moment. You need not undertake rigorous sadhana for months and years. You can always be blissful.
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| “My weight is always constant at 108 pounds” |
How to lead a healthy life? Here is an example, whether you believe it or not. I am a witness to it. Since the last 54 years; now I am 68 years old; therefore from the age of 14 years; My weight has been constant at 108 pounds only. It never went up to 109 pounds nor came down to 107 pounds. You can lead a healthy life once you achieve this kind of balance and moderation. But doctors would not believe this. They say that if you do not eat well, the bones would get damaged. But that is not the case with Me. Why? My discipline is very strict. I never eat even a little bit excess. I observe the principle of moderation whether I am invited for food by a millionaire or a pauper. Even though I am sixty eight years, My body is in perfect trim! I do not suffer from aches and My heart is as sound as a rock. There is none who can work like Me and exert himself as much as I do! The secret of My sound health is My regulated food habits. This is how one has to achieve the unity and harmony of food, head and God. Today we are making many mistakes with respect to our food. If we modify our food habits, we can enjoy very good health.
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| Purity of the food that we consume |
Saankhya philosophy (one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy and classical Indian philosophy) stresses emphatically on the need for purity in food. Food is verily the undercurrent of the five life principles (Pancha Praanaas). The (physical) body is the very form of food. This food eats food again. Enquire clearly – the body which is the form of food once again consumes food. Our body is the essence of the food consumed by our parents. This body which is verily the form of food, partakes of the very same food. Thus food eats food. That is why Saankhya gives primary importance to the aspect of food. The sacred texts do not enable people to enquire into these subtle points. Profound meaning is embedded in very subtle and small aspects. If we neglect aspects that appear small, they will take the form of gigantic waves. We find very small termites attacking the wood. In no time, they completely destroy the wood. Thus, we must never ignore the finer details. We must nurture noble thoughts and noble feelings.
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| The type of food that you eat, decides the nature of your mind |
When people who have hatred, jealousy, desire, and other such wicked feelings in their heart, eat their food, the wicked tendencies present in their digestive system will affect their mind. When these wicked tendencies reach the mind, bad thoughts emerge there from. When one does not observe discipline in food habits, all such problems arise on account of food and water. Where does the mind originate? The mind originates from food. Food decides the nature of your mind. That is why our ancestors recommended the partaking of Sathvic food.
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| Offer food to the five life principles before consuming |
We must have good feelings when we partake of our food and drink. Based on ancient traditions, before eating food, people would make an offering – Praanaaya Svaaha, Apaanaaya Svaaha, Vyaanaaya Svaaha, Udaanaaya Svaaha. They used to make such an offering to God and then consume the water. Offering the food to the five principles, partaking of it as Prasaadam, would eliminate all defects from the food. Thus Saankhya emphasizes that the food should be first offered to the five life principles – Praanaa, Apaanaa, Vyaanaa, Udaanaa and Samaanaa.
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| Food is God – Annam Brahma |
While eating our food, we must utter the words, “Annam Brahma” (food is God); Raso Vishnuhu (the essence of food is Vishnu). Food is God. It gets into the body and provides its essence to all the parts of the body. It indeed gets transformed into blood and energy. Bhoktodevo Maheswarah (the one who consumes the food is Maheswarah). This principle teaches wisdom to the whole world. Annam Brahma, Raso Vishnuhu, Bhoktodevo Maheswarah – these three are like three attributes.
05-Partake sacred food to attain purity of heart-2.33-2002 November 23
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| Partake sacred food to attain purity of heart |
Embodiments of Love! What you need to focus on today is that you must strive to attain purity of heart (Chitta Shuddhi). Let this be your foremost endeavour. With purity of heart, you can achieve anything. In order to attain purity of heart, there must be unity between the food we partake, the feelings we entertain while eating, and the happiness we experience thereof.
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| From the time T.V. made its appearance, the mind of humans have been polluted |
Youth, men and women should understand this point clearly. Who is responsible for the bad feelings that arise in us? Who is responsible for the bad thoughts, the bad actions? Enquire well by going deep into the matter. The root cause for all these is the food. As is the food, so is the mind. The mind attracts the objects of the external world. If you wish to have a good example for this, you will find it as the very undercurrent in the daily experience of all men and women.
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| Videos and T.V. are ruining the life of youth |
Today’s education is transforming the children into devils. There is no humility or obedience in this system of education. They learn the books by rote, go to the examination hall and write the paper, and return home with an empty head! Is this education? No. The education that you receive should be imprinted on your heart. It should never be forgotten even after many years. Today’s students do not have such sacred feelings. Everybody pretends to be a devotee. Why this acting?
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| Television T.V. has become a disease like T.B. Tuberculosis |
Students, you all know. Everything is a like picture. So long as you are here, you are very comfortable, safe and you live a peaceful life. But once you go home, you gather all the gadgets like Cinemas, T.V., Videos, etc. They pollute your heart. Human life is ruined by Videos and T.V. The advertisers put up their advertisements on the T.V. for their profits and not for your benefit. If the shows are educative, you can surely watch them. If they are noble and related to moral values, you can definitely see them; nothing wrong.
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| Do not watch T.V. while eating food |
Because of the effect of the Kali age, we have all these gadgets like the T.V. and the Video. When the students go home, they have their food also in front of the Video. They watch the video while eating their food. As is the food, so is the Head. As you keep watching all the scenes, those thoughts enter your food. Therefore, as is the food, so is the Head and as is the Head, so is your God. You may watch good programmes on the T.V., nothing wrong. But, why should you not read sacred books that show you the path to Divinity? You get a headache when you are asked to read sacred books. But while reading mad and foolish novels, you do not even notice the passing of time. This is indeed the impact of the Kali age on the students.
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| Pregnant women must be cautious of what they feel, see and hear |
It is highly important for women also to study sacred books and nurture sacred scenes. When the women are pregnant, they watch 3 to 4 movies in a go. That is why they give birth to only “cinema children”! (Women must avoid seeing sensuous films and TV shows, especially during pregnancy. The child in the womb is likely to be influenced, by the kind of things they read or see). What is the reason? You must note one very significant example in our sacred Bhaaratheeya epics.
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| The foetus in the womb is affected by external sights and sounds |
What do we find today? Pregnant women are engaged in seeing Television, Cinemas and other deleterious media which portray heinous and vulgar scenes. The result is that the children who are born develop such undesirable tendencies in them. When Arjuna was narrating insights regarding the Padmavyuha to Subhadra, Krishna entered the scene, intervened and said, “Brother-in-law, do you think it is Subhadra alone listening to you? No. No. The foetus in the womb is also listening to all that you are saying”. Krishna revealed this truth to Arjuna.
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| Anthony DeCasper conducted scientific investigations to study the impact of external influences on the foetus in the womb |
There were critical scientists in earlier years, who ridiculed Krishna and regarded what he said (about the impact of external influences on the foetus in the womb) as meaningless and baseless. But today, scientists in the West who ridiculed and sneered at these matters are now realising that what was said in the Mahabharata is true. The Research Institute of Child Health and Human Development, attached to the Carolina University in America, has been conducting experiments on the factors influencing development of children. An eminent professor (scientist) in this Institute, performed a number of investigations for several years, to verify whether what Krishna had said was true or not. This professor was Anthony Casper (Anthony James DeCasper).
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| Ramayanam = Rama + Ayanam – The Path of Lord Rama |
The sacred Ramayana story illustrates the greatness and sacredness of Bharateeya culture. This epic is called the Ramayana. The Ramayana is not merely a story of Rama. Rama + Ayanam is Ramayanam. “Ayanam” means “The Path”. The inner meaning of Ramayana is that the path shown by Rama should be followed.
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| Install Rama’s Message in our Heart |
The life stories of Rama and Krishna are indeed treatises on righteousness. They are sacred scriptures. They teach mankind how to sublimate human life. The need of the hour today is for a man to live like a true human being. Without humanity, a man cannot be truly called a man. The message is clear: adhering to Truth, practising Righteousness, spreading Love everywhere, remaining ever peaceful, life should be sanctified. This day should not be celebrated merely as the anniversary of Rama’s birth or His advent. The day we manifest in our hearts the Rama Bhaava(Feeling of Rama), that day is the real birthday of Rama. Celebrating of holy days should not mean just having a good feast on those days. We should seek to make the teachings of the Avatars concerned, a part of our lives. We must obey their command. We should follow the path laid down by them. Only then, the story or the epic has any meaning. Our lives also get sanctified. All studies of the Vedas and Shastras, recitations, and listening to discourses are of no value, if practice does not follow precept.
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| Everybody has the Divine Power of Attraction Within |
God does not exist separately in this world. The entire world is the very form of God. However getting deluded by their attachment to the physical body that is merely an instrument; humans are considering themselves to be merely men and are forgetting their Divinity. We consider Rama and Krishna to be Avataars. No, all are mere human beings only. We are all verily, forms of the Divine. We must recognize this feeling today and must develop faith in it. We must give up the feeling that God exists separately from us. We have to develop the faith that God is not different from us. On the occasion of Ramanavami, people hail the advent of Rama and recall his various achievements of establishing Dharma on earth. No, no. Everyone should remember that he is himself an image of Rama. The meaning of Rama is “Ramayathi Ithi Ramah” (One who attracts others is Rama). In every person there is this power of attraction. Rame Raame Manorame (Rama is the power of attraction in the mind). Every man has got this power of attraction or the magnetic power. Because of this magnetic power man is able to experience this world. He develops many worldly desires and fulfils them. But he is never satisfied. He derives satisfaction from discontent. That is a sign of the divine power of attraction. There is no limit to this power. Everyone can experience and manifest this Divinity within him.
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| Ramayana is verily the Vedas come down to Earth |
The sacred epic Ramayana is verily the Vedas descended from heaven to earth. The Vedas are classified into four: RigVeda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda, and Atharvana Veda. The RigVeda helps, sustains and protects the Yajnas and Yagas. In the epic of Ramayana, Rama symbolises the Rig Veda. Lakshmana signifies YajurVeda, which contains mantras that are nurtured, protected and chanted during the performance of Yajnas and Yagas. When Rama was away in the forest, Bharata left Ayodhya and stayed in Nandigrama; singing His Divine Name day in and day out. Hence, he symbolises Sama Veda. To secure the Rig, Yajur and Sama Vedas, being obedient to his brothers, Shatrughna joyfully played the role of protecting them. He stands for the AtharvanaVeda. The essence of Atharvana Veda lies in destroying the wrong, wicked, bad actions and evil company; and in fostering sacred acts, good conduct and good virtues. Shatrughna was born to destroy the enemies and protect the friends and the pious people. The Ramayana is verily the Veda. The Veda is not different from the Ramayana. True humanness lies in understanding this.
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| Lakshmana the ideal Brother |
Every notable character in Ramayana stands out as an ideal for the world. All of them are embodiments of Dharma and sacred masters. Consider the example of Lakshmana. Valmiki has described Lakshmana in many ways. He has called him “Rama’s other self”. In the Kamba Ramayana, Lakshmana is described as the “second virtue of Rama”. Tulasidas characterises Lakshmana as “Rama’s right hand”. Rama and Lakshmana were associated inseparably as “Bimba and Pratimba” i.e. one was just the reflection of the other. In his great quality, his immaculate purity and spirit of sacrifice, Lakshmana is his own example.
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| Seizing the opportunity, Sita immediately garlanded Rama! |
First the eldest son (of Dasaratha) must be married. Sita the daughter of king Janaka was born from the mother earth. As a baby, she was, discovered while ploughing the land. Urmilla was the eldest daughter of king Janaka. Both the daughters, Sita and Urmilla were presented as brides for Rama and Lakshmana respectively. On the following day, Bharatha and Shatrughna also came there. Looking at all four of them, Dasaratha was feeling very happy within and considered himself to be very lucky. Mandavi and Shrutakeerti were the daughters of Kushadhwaja, the younger brother of king Janaka. It was a perfect match between the four sons (of Dasaratha) and the four daughters (of Janaka and Kushadwaja).
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| The ideal brothers! |
Rama lived an ideal life. He respected His parents and followed their command. He was never concerned about any difficulties or loss. He lived harmoniously with His brothers. He had great love for them. There was no conflict whatsoever among them. The entire family was united.
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| King Dasaratha was ready to give up the throne |
In the story of Rama many great ideals shine forth. Here is one episode: Dasaratha was sleeping in his palace. He had a dream. In that dream he saw that the whole ocean had dried up, the moon was falling and breaking into myriad pieces, an elephant in rut was tumbling down and collapsing with the howdah on its back falling apart. He woke up with a start and wondered “What is this strange dream?” “It is said that a dream in the early hours of the morning portends what is to happen. It is now the fourth quarter of the night. What does this dream portend?” thought Dasaratha. He got up from his bed. He stood before a mirror. He noticed a bizarre change in his face. He saw grey hairs stretching out between his two ears. He realised that old age was creeping on him. He tried to drink a glass of water by pouring water from a jug into a glass. He noticed that his hand was trembling. He could see that his sense organs were beginning to fail. He felt that he could carry on his reign as long as his senses were perfect. But now they were declining. One can rule a kingdom only so long as his senses are strong.
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| Rama stood as an example for upholding moral values |
Today, morality is on the decline among human beings. Narrow mindedness is on the rise. Divinity is forgotten. Demonic nature is nurtured. This is not what we need to do. We must forget demonic qualities and hold on to Divinity. How sacred is the principle of Rama. When Rama was prepared to be coronated as the king, the very next moment, He went into the forest on exile, with the same smile on His face. Sukhadukhe Samekruthva Labhalabhau Jayajayau (Equal mindedness amidst the dualities of life – pain and pleasure, victory and defeat, gain and loss). Rama displayed this virtue of equanimity. Rama experienced the same happiness in going to the forest, as He enjoyed in getting prepared to be the king. Where is this virtue of equanimity in man today? Man aspires for positions of authority though he does not deserve them. An undeserving person expects deservedness. But Rama relinquished the position even though He deserved it. Rama was courageous in the face of adversities. He never gave any scope for weakness. The one who is in the company of Rama will always be a Dheera(courageous one), and not a Deena (weak-minded one).
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| Rama followed Dharma perfectly, according to the time and circumstances |
Rama propagated the principle of “Vyakti Dharma” (individual Dharma). In adherence to the command of His father, Rama went on exile to the forest and suffered a lot. But He never considered this as suffering. He truly upheld the Dharma of the family. He demonstrated to the entire world that any member of the Ikshavaaku clan, based on his family Dharma, would never go back on the given word. The social aspect of the Ramayana highlights that under any circumstances; one must respect one’s parents, wife and children and bring repute to ones brothers. How did Rama protect the family in the given circumstances?
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| Sumitra, a noble woman, had all virtues of an ideal Mother |
It is impossible to describe the great qualities of Sumitra and Shatrughna. It was the time when the coronation of Rama did not take place and He went to the forest in exile. According to the wish of Kaikeyi, Rama was to spend fourteen years in exile. Before going to the forest, Rama went to mother Kausalya to seek her blessings. She wept inconsolably. Not only she; everyone in the Antahpura (inner chambers) were in tears. There was no joy to be seen anywhere. Later Lakshmana went to mother Sumitra and sought her blessings. She said, “My dear one, Lakshmana. Do not feel sad that you are going to the forest. Truly that is not a forest. In fact, this Ayodhya is like an Aranyaa (forest) without Sita and Rama. The forest where Sita and Rama live is verily Ayodhya. So even when you live in the forest, consider it as living in Ayodhya. Rama is your father and Sita, your mother. Let nothing come in your way of serving them.”
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| Urmila’s broad-mindedness and utter selflessness moved Lakshmana to tears. |
Then Lakshmana, as he would be away for 14 long years, went to his wife Urmila to inform her about his decision to go with Rama. Urmila, the first daughter of king Janaka, was highly virtuous. Her spirit of sacrifice and generosity was unparalleled. Being unaware of the happenings, she was painting a picture of Rama’s coronation ceremony that was to be held the next day. She was painting the close relationship that existed between Rama and Sita and she wanted to send it to her father Janaka. As she was deeply engrossed in her work, all of a sudden Lakshmana entered and called her in a raised voice, “Urmila!”. She was startled and at once stood up. As she got up in a hurry, she accidentally spilled the paint on the picture she was painting. She felt sad for having spoiled the picture.
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| Ravana was Great but Rama was Good |
See the difference between Rama and Ravana. Both were equally eminent intellectually and were great scholars. Ravana was a great man. Rama was a good man. The difference between greatness and goodness should be understood. Rama is good, whereas Ravana is great. How is he great? Ravana had lot of worldly and physical powers. He was very well educated. However, he could not assimilate all that he had learned. Therefore, Ravana suffered from the disease of indigestion in the form of egoism and attachment. Therefore, though he was great, he fell victim to this disease. Rama is good. He put His knowledge into practice, experienced it, shared it with the people and experienced joy. He digested His knowledge. With assimilation alone comes strength and satisfaction. It is not enough if we just learn. Only when we put it into practice and digest it, we gain strength. Only if the food is digested, the body will get strength. Only when we practice all that we have learned, we will get peace and security.
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| Lav and Kusha – The Ideal Messengers of God |
When Lava and Kusha went about singing the glories of Rama they had no nervousness or apprehension. Today, in the modern age, if young people have to sing among many people, they feel very shy. Young persons hesitate to put on any auspicious marks on the forehead when they visit temples and do not venture to fold their palms in reverence. On the contrary, Lava and Kusha forgot all bodily consciousness and sang from their hearts the glory of Rama. They thus taught a very great message to the youth of today. There is nothing greater than chanting the name of the Lord.
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| Practice is the touchstone of devotion |
Such a sacred scripture that can delight one to such an extent cannot be found in any other country or in any other language. Any number of years have passed by, but still, even today, everybody thinks of Rama. In Bhaarath, there is no place where Rama’s name is not chanted and there is no hand that does not practice Daanam (charity). Even in the tiniest hamlet there will be a small Rama temple. But these temples are not so very important. The temple in which Rama should be worshipped is your heart. God is the Hridayavaasi (indweller of the heart). He does not reside in Tirupati or Bhadrachalam. He is neither in Vaikunta nor in Kailaasa. They are all only branch offices. But the Head office is the heart alone. God resides in the heart of man. Therefore, you need not go anywhere or travel anywhere to seek Rama. Without going out anywhere, without incurring any expense, you can experience Rama in your heart and achieve liberation.
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| Speaking the Truth is so easy! |
A boy said in his talk, Satyam Vada, Dharmam Chara – Speak the truth and Follow righteousness. He said, this is not easy, it is very difficult. This is wrong. There is nothing easier than speaking the truth and practising Dharma. It is truthful to say that today Swami came early at 4 pm and He started His Discourse before time. It is so easy to state facts as they are. You do not need to think over or have any worry. But if you wish to speak a lie, you have to think a lot. You have to package the lie in a manner that it will be believed. You have to use a lot of knack in speaking and finally you will become a crack! Therefore, it is so difficult to speak a lie. Speaking the Truth is so easy. We think it is difficult to speak the truth. This is very wrong. We have got used to speaking lies. Because of this we are unable to understand the truth. The world is also giving scope to such weaknesses. This weakness is present in every man.
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| Do not give up Truth under any circumstances |
Rama is the very embodiment of Truth. But we utter all lies. We perform the Satyanarayana Vratam (a Hindu religious observance) once a year; that is all. That is not right. Satatam Satyam. We must speak the truth always. Sarvada Sarvakaleshu Sarvatra Harichintanam. We must think of God always, at all times and everywhere. We must at least make an effort to speak the truth. But we are not doing that. The moment we open our mouth, it is lies. Whatever we say, it is lies. It is not even possible to know what truth is. Therefore students; do not give up truth under any circumstances, even if it comes to losing your very life. It is truth that will be with you, around you, front of you, behind you and will protect you like the eyelid of the eye. This is how Harischandra got transformed into Satya Harischandra. He was faced with so many difficulties and pains. He sold his wife and children, he sacrificed his kingdom, and finally became a cemetery worker. But he did not get shaken and he never gave up the truth. Finally, God Himself had to submit to him. God manifested before him, gave him back everything that he had lost and honoured him with the tile “Satya Harischandra” (The Truthful Harischandra).
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| Mahatma Gandhi took a vow never to speak a lie A vow that he kept up till the end of his life! |
Gandhi too became Mahatma Gandhi because of the great qualities of Putlibai (his mother). Putlibai had taken a vow wherein she would not partake food or water, not even take a morsel of food until she heard the sound of the cuckoo bird in the morning. It was not possible for the son to have his food until his mother had her food. On one occasion, it became 12 noon, 1 pm and even 3 pm in the afternoon, but the mother was not willing to take her food (as she had not heard the cuckoo’s sound). At that time, Gandhi planned a strategy. He went behind his house and made a sound like the cuckoo bird. He then came in and told his mother that he had heard the cuckoo bird sing, though she could not hear, and therefore they could have their food now. The mother felt very sad. She thought to herself, “Has such an evil son been born to me from my womb? Just for the sake of food, he is betraying me by speaking lies. Making the sound of the cuckoo himself, he is lying to me that he heard the cuckoo sing”. Out of anger she caught his ears and dragged him. “Bad boy, for the sake of my food, are you speaking lies in this manner”, saying so, she slapped him. Gandhi felt very repentant and begged her for pardon. The mother said that it was not possible for her to pardon him and he must undergo the punishment for his mistake. It was from that moment that Gandhi promised that he would never utter a lie and he kept up his promise till the end of his life.
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| King Bali kept up his word even at the cost of disobeying his Guru |
We must have a very good speech in society. Only then we will win the faith of all. When it comes to the matter of truth, we can even disobey our Guru (teacher). Guru Shukracharya advised king Bali that Vamana was not an ordinary man. He may have come as a three feet tall dwarf but he is verily Lord Narayana Himself. If you agree to give him anything you will become a beggar. King Bali replied, “Swami, when God Himself has come asking, can I ever refrain from giving? I will give, even if I may be put into any situation. God’s hands are below and mine are above. The one who receives, his hands are always below. This itself is my good luck. It is not an ordinary person who is seeking alms from me. It is Lord Narayana Himself. Can there be any other greater fortune than this? To avail this good fortune, I am ready to forego anything. The true respect lies in keeping up ones word”.
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| The Peaceful, Virtuous, Strong, Respectful and Dignified Hanuman! |
If you slip, you can retrace your leg and get up. But a slip of the tongue cannot be taken back. Kaalujarithe Kalagadu Nashtam, Naalagu Jarite Narakamera (A Telugu saying). If you slip (physically), there is no loss, but a slip of the tongue takes you to hell. Students, considering your words as your very life, when you talk to elders, your parents, your friends and other respectful people; you must speak the truth in a respectful and meaningful way. Hanuman being the minister of Sugriva, seeking the permission of Sugriva, came to speak to Rama and Lakshmana. Listening to the sweet words of Hanuman, Rama was very delighted. Brother Lakshmana, he is Shantudu (peaceful), Gunavuntudu (virtuous), Balavantudu (strong), Hanumantudu. Peace is verily manifest in his face. His respect and dignity speaks of his qualities.
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| Worship of God is the primary purpose of all Festivals |
We must not consider Yugaadi as a mere festival. We must consider it as a day of Paramaatma (God). We must consider the spiritual aspect of the day. All Bhaarateeya festivals have a special inner significance. However, we go by the mere external rituals and celebrate the day by making sweets and other delicacies. These festivals have come into being to specifically remember God, experience happiness and get rid of our sorrows. These festivals have been started to get rid of our ignorance and manifest Prajnaana, Sujnaana and Vijnaana (Awareness, Wisdom and Knowledge). Man has been gifted with intelligence along with the physical form. However, the span of the body is limited; we must not forget this. In the short span of our life, we must use our intelligence and experience true happiness. But, unfortunately man is misusing the intelligence given to him.
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| God is the Master of Time and the source of all Aeons |
God has been envisaged as the embodiment of Time. As He is the beginning (source) of the Yugas, the name Yugaadi has come. Yugaadiyai Namah extols God with the name of Yugaadi. He presides over Time. He is the Spirit (Atmic principle) of Time. That is why he is called Kaalatmakaaya Namah. As God contains Time in His womb, He is also called Kaalagarbha (container of Time). Time is the devourer of the physical form; whereas the Lord is the devourer of Time itself. The New Year festival (Samvatsaraa) is an expression of the name of the Divine Itself. Therefore, Time is the very form of God. Among the 1000 names of the Lord are Samvatsaraa, Yugaadi, Kaalakaalaaya, Kaalaprasannaya, Kaalaatheethaaya, Kaalaswaroopaaya, Kaalanirmitaaya, and the like. All these are names associated with Time. The New Year festival is therefore associated with the name of the Lord. There is no need to entertain fears about the losses and difficulties that may occur during the year. When God Himself is coming down as the New Year, anything may happen, good or bad. The Lord (Maha Vishnu) may come down to protect devotees like Prahlada and Dhruva. He may also destroy demons like Hiranyakasipu and Bhasmaasura. The same Vishnu confers bliss on some and the same Vishnu destroys some others. The Lord acts according to the qualities of the persons concerned. They are either protected or punished.
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| God is the beginning of all Yugas He is therefore called Yugaadi |
Hence, God who is the embodiment of Time / Samvatsaraa should be put to right use. We have classified the aeons into four, viz: Krita Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dwapara Yuga and Kali Yuga. These are not distinct from each other. The divisions have been identified based on our experiences. Whether it be Krita Yuga or Kali Yuga, it has no separate form. According to the conduct of the people at the time, the Yugas have come into being. Even during Krita Yuga there were people filled with attachments and aversions. There are even in Kali Yuga people wedded to truth and leading virtuous and peaceful lives. God is the origin of all the Yugas. Hence, one of the names bestowed on God is Yugaadi (One from whom all Yugas begin). The Yugaadi festival is celebrated for this very reason. Everything is a manifestation of the Divine. There is no second object in this world other than the Divine. He is the one who gives and He is the one who takes. Not realising this, man becomes elated when he is given something and feels depressed when something is taken away. You should therefore develop the state of equanimity which neither makes you elated nor depressed.
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| Yugaadi is related to the Prakruthi (Gross World) |
Bharatheeyas have been observing the birthdays of Avatars (Incarnations) as festival days. The birthdays of the founders of various faiths (Mathaadipathis) have also been observed as festivals. The death anniversaries of wicked persons as well as of holy men have been observed as festivals. But the Yugaadi celebration is not related to the birth of any Avatar or the birth of any saint, prophet or the birth of any wicked person. It is related purely to Prakruthi (the phenomenal world or Nature). This is important for one and all. It is an occasion for comprehending the Nature of the universe. When we want to know who is God, the answer is Prakruthi. Prakruthi is the visible manifestation of God.
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| Yugaadi Pachchadi teaches us the message of equanimity |
On Yugaadi day, it is the practice to eat what is called “Yugaadi Pachchadi” (New Year savoury), as soon as they get up in the morning. What is this “Yugaadi Pachchadi”? This chutney made from neem flowers, mango juice, honey, sugar and other ingredients with different tastes, is to be consumed early in the morning. The inner significance of consuming this preparation is to indicate that life is a mix of good and bad, sin and virtue, joy and sorrow; and all of them have to be treated alike. All experiences have to be treated with equanimity. Everyone should make a resolve right at the beginning of the year that whatever may come his way in the course of the year, he will face the same with equanimity. It is with this feeling that the Prasaad (chutney) must be consumed. The Prasaadammust be consumed with all satisfaction. If you criticize the Prasaadam, abusing that why consume such bitter chutney at the beginning of the year, then all along the year you will face criticism only. Welcome whatever comes your way. Consider everything as for your own good. The main goal for man is to develop such equanimity. We should exhibit the principle of equanimity by not getting elated with happiness nor getting depressed with sorrow. This is the primary message of the Yugaadi festival.
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| Panchaanga Sravanam reveals the good and bad associated with the five senses (human life) |
There are five elements in Nature. Those very five elements are also there in our human body. Reading of the Panchaangamis the narration of the good and bad associated with these five elements in the human body. In the evening of the Yugaadi day, in villages and cities, Panchaanga Sravanam (hearing of the Panchaanga) is conducted. Panchaangameans to let one know about the good and bad associated with the five senses.
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| Our own actions are responsible for good or bad results |
We are celebrating this day as New Year Day. This New Year (Hindu Year starting from April 1997) is called Eeshvara. Eeshvara means one who is endowed with all forms of wealth. People greet the New Year as if it is going to confer on them some new happiness, joy and fortunes. The good or evil, the sin or virtues, the renown or infamy experienced by people are not the outcome of the passage of years. They are the consequences of our own actions, which we experience every second. Samvathsara(the year) is one of the names of God. Because God is associated with time, He is also known as Kaalaathmaka(Time-spirit). Hence, we should not consider the New Year (Kaalaathmaka), who is the spirit of Time, as likely to bring good or bad to us. Our actions, good or bad, bear fruits according to their nature. There is no need to wait for a New Year to bring new tidings. Every moment is new. Many are wondering what will be the situation in the world, what troubles and losses the New Year will bring. For all our troubles, difficulties, sorrows and happiness, the year is not responsible. Our conduct alone is responsible. If our actions are good the results will be good. Bad actions will lead to bad consequences. People think that good and bad are related to bad time or bad actions; No – not at all. The thoughts are the cause. Hence, we should develop good thoughts and perform good deeds. We should cherish good feelings and associate ourselves with good persons.
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| Turn your thoughts to God and surrender to Him |
We are today celebrating Yugaadi, the beginning of yet another New Year. Many New Year days have come and gone. Do you expect the New Year to bring you new happiness? Are you imagining what joy the New Year has in store for you? New Years do not offer you pleasure, prosperity or fortune. This New Year day will be like any other day with the same sunrise and sunset. Many people eagerly expect some good benefits to turn up on this day. This is all 100% negative thought. The New Year will not bring you anything new. The calendar merely tells you that a New Year has begun on a particular day. We need to find out a new path, a new life and seek a new source of joy. But unfortunately we do not think about this. We speculate on what gifts the New Year is likely to bring to us. We have to look to ourselves and not to the succession of years. Think within yourself about your condition. Turn your thoughts to God and surrender to Him. Then you will realize what you desire.
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| Has the New Year brought about even a little change in us? |
What is the primary essence of the festival of Yugaadi? On this Yugaadi day, Bharatheeyas get up early in the morning, have a sacred bath, put on new clothes, eat sweet preparations and celebrate the day as a festive occasion. These celebrations have been going on for many years. People have celebrated so many Yugaadis. But how far have the people transformed themselves with each Yugaadi? The garments are new, but the mind remains unchanged. It is not enough to wear new clothes. Good qualities must be nurtured. There is no use of changing clothes, qualities need to change. Without a reformation in mind and character there is no meaning in observing any number of festivals.
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| Live in the present. Present is most important. It is not ordinary present. It is Omnipresent! |
What should we do on the day of Yugaadi? From this day onwards we must take a firm resolve to make attempts to purify our heart. Past is past. It cannot be retrieved. When you are walking on the road, what is the point in looking behind? You do not need to see back, you should look at the path ahead of you. Future is not sure. It is not certain. Within seconds it will pass away. What is the guarantee that you will be alive until tomorrow? So, do not worry about your future. Do not brood about it. Live in the present. Present is most important. It is not ordinary present. It is omnipresent! When you make the present sacred, the past will also become sacred and the future will also become sacred (meaning the results of past and seeds of future are contained in the present; so when you make proper use of the present, you can be rest assured that your future is safe and secure). Embodiments of Love! Today is Yugaadi, the New Year day for the people of Andhra Pradesh. Tomorrow happens to be the Tamil New Year day and the day after, Vishu, the New Year Day for the people of Kerala. There are many festivals coming one after another. There is no shortage of festivals. There are so many festivals. But we must have the understanding to experience the festival in the right manner. Embodiments of Love! From tomorrow onwards, right from this moment, embark on a new life giving up bad thoughts and bad qualities. Purify your heart. Only then will your life be blissful. There is no point in reading sacred texts or visiting noble souls unless you purify your heart in the first instance. Let your thoughts, words and deeds be sacred. Then alone will you get fulfilment in life. This is the true transformative experience of celebrating Yugaadi.
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| Do not limit the New Year celebration to wearing new clothes and eating sweets |
On Yugaadi day, people get up early, have a sacred bath, put on new clothes and partake of sweets and various delicacies at home. Observing external cleanliness and donning new clothes is very easy, but we are polluting the inner feelings in our heart with evil qualities, evil thoughts and evil feelings. One can claim that one has truly experienced (and benefited from) the festival of Yugaadi only when one purifies one’s heart, makes it sacred and nurtures selfless feelings.
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| Decorate your house with the buntings of Love! |
People have celebrated many Yugaadi (New Year) festivals in their life. We believe in certain traditional practices that go along with every festival, such as wearing new clothes, cleaning the house and decorating it with buntings of green leaves. Greatness lies in making an effort to purify our thoughts and feelings; not merely in purifying this transient human body, which is worldly, impermanent and unstable. The significance of a festival does not lie in wearing new clothes but in cultivating new and noble qualities. The house should be decorated not merely with the buntings of green leaves, but with buntings of love. We must share our love with everyone who visits our homes. Only when we celebrate the festival with such transformation, would we be celebrating the festival realizing its true spirit.
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| Give up narrow mindedness and selfishness |
Embodiments of Love! We have been experiencing the bliss of celebrating Yugaadi (New Year) for the past many ages and generations. The Bharateeyas have been spreading peace and security to all the nations of the world with their power of spirituality. Since time immemorial the prayer of the Bharateeyas has been: Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu (May all the people of the world be happy!). They prayed for peace and security of the entire world. Today, humanity has made great progress in the physical and worldly plane. But morally man has regressed. He is not able to give up his narrow-mindedness and criticism of others. When each one conducts a self-enquiry, he would find that the main reasons for this state of affairs are selfishness and self-interest. Today, man does not love objects for the sake of the objects. He does not love others for their sake. He does not worship the nation for the sake of the nation. Anything that he sees, does or thinks is out of selfishness. The day we would be able to give up our narrow mindedness, we would have achieved the true benefit of Yugaadi.
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| Sath (Being or God) is your true eternal friend |
Today, we are celebrating Yugaadi, which means the commencement of a new era. It denotes the beginning of every Yuga, be it Krita, Treta or Kali Yuga. This is the beginning of Nuthana Samvathsaraa(New Year). Vathsaraa is another name of God. That is why God is extolled as Vathsaraswarupaaya Namah (salutations to the one who is the embodiment of Vathsaraa). Time is God. Vathsaraais its cosmic form. So, Time and Vathsaraaconnote the same Divinity. The New Year has to be sanctified by new thoughts and new feelings. Today, humanity is stricken with fear and restlessness. Courage and strength are on the decline, because people have unsacred thoughts and wicked feelings. Your enemies are not outside. Your bad thoughts are your worst enemies and thoughts based on Truth are your best friends. But today, people do not befriend the thoughts based on Truth, which are essentially Divine. You have to make friendship with Sath, the eternal truth. Sath means Being, the ever-existent God. The worldly friends and enemies change with changes in time, action and responsibility. But Sath is the true and eternal friend. This friend is always with you, in you, around you, above you, below you and protects you just as the eyelid protects the eye.
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| God is ever smiling! Happiness is union with God |
Even with the passage of the New Year, we still hold on to our old practices. Sacred feelings, sacred behaviour, sacred actions, sacred sacrifice and sacred talk do not come forth at all. We repeat the same old songs, same old talk, same old behaviour. We say this is a New Year, but then where are the new feelings? We must develop new ideas and new enthusiasm. If we are depressed all the time, when will we learn to express the joy of good living? We must be cheerful all the time. We must never worry. That is the mark of the Divine within. Happiness is union with God, not with dog! We must have a smiling face always. God is eternal bliss. If you too smile always, you will become God.
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| True Bliss is permanent. It does not “come and go” |
Today the New Year has dawned. We observe the festival at home and derive happiness in so many ways. But how long does this happiness last? It does not last even for a day. This is not true happiness. This is not the real New Year. The happiness that we get must be permanent. True bliss does not “come and go”. It is not like a passing cloud. Once it comes, it remains permanently with us. We have been born with this very bliss.
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| Purify your hearts and nurture good feelings |
Embodiments of Love! Today is Yugaadi, the beginning of the New Year. Since ancient times, people have celebrated many Yugaadis, but they are yet to give up bad qualities. True Yugaadi is the day when you purify your heart, develop sacred feelings, fill your heart with love and take to the path of sacrifice. Do not limit the celebration of Yugaadi to merely putting on new clothes and partaking of delicious food items. Today you may wear a new shirt, but how long will it remain new? Tomorrow it becomes old. In the same way, we read a newspaper today. Nobody reads the same old newspaper every day. Today’s newspaper becomes tomorrow’s waste paper.
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| Mere spending of money cannot wash away our sins |
This New Year (starting from 29th March 1998) is called the Bahudhaanyaa. Bahudhaanya means there would be plenty of grain. There is plenty of grain even now, there is no shortage. But are we consuming the grain properly? No. Are we feeding some few hungry people? No. Thus good names have been given to each of the New Years. All these are names of God only. Prabhava, Vibhava, Shukla,…Angirasa, Bhava, Yuva…Vikrama, Vishu…Sarvadhaari, Virodhi…(Bhagawan gives the names of a number of New Years). All these are such sacred names. You cannot underestimate any name. Some say that certain New Years are bad and will bring bad results. Do you know why they say so? So that they can earn money by prescribing rituals for attaining peace! Can spending of money ward away the sins? In fact, we are becoming mad. Money cannot solve the problem. It is only our heart which can solve the problem. How much ever bad we may do, always contemplate on God.
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| Feed the poor everyday |
Devotees come and suggest to me that they should be allowed to organize “poor feeding” on Yugaadi. Why should they call it “poor feeding”? Can they not call it “feeding of poor”? “Poor feeding” means serving very less quantity of rice. Even in use of words, we are so negative! Swami never uses such negative words at all. Should this “feeding of poor” be done only on one day of the year? What will the poor people eat on other days? You must feed the poor on all days. That is the broad heart of Bhagawan! You can never estimate the broad heartedness of Bhagawan! Bhagawan’s is expansion Love, whereas yours is contraction love.
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| Yugadi celebration is an annual reminder of man’s obligation to express his gratitude to the Divine |
Expressing gratitude is the foremost duty of man. This gratitude is called Bhakti (Devotion). It is not just chanting the name of God. Naamasmaranaa(chanting the name of God) is just a part of the gratitude. Oh God! For having given me this sacred human birth, what is the gratitude that I can express to you? I will chant your name continuously. This is my gratitude to You. All the nine paths of devotion are symbolic of gratitude to God. Without gratitude, man will become worse than a beast living in the forest. Therefore, the Yugaadi celebration every year is an annual reminder for man to transform his heart for the purpose of seeking God.
There are six excerpts from Bhagawan’s Discourses presented in this post. These have been selected from Discourses given by Bhagawan Baba during the years 1996, 2001, 2005 and 2006.
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| Because of your past merit and good fortune you have come to Swami |
Because of your past merit and good fortune you have come to Swami. You do not know this. At this age you cannot understand, however in future you will be able to understand the principle of Swami. You have received the great fortune which rarely people can get, but you are giving it up easily and going away. You are disobeying the command. You are not following the command. You are not able to appreciate the good words.
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| Become a “Number One” individual |
Students, first have a control over your mind. Offer your mind to God alone. God can do everything for you. He can do anything for that matter. Therefore, with all devotion, have the conviction that He is everywhere. Never entertain the doubt that God is here and not there. God is present everywhere, wherever you look for Him, you will find Him there.
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| Serve your parents during vacations and make them happy |
Students, from tomorrow, you all will be going to your respective home towns. Recapitulate what you have studied here, what you have listened here and what you have eaten here and be happy. Make your parents also happy. Do not give scope for them to be worried thinking that Oh my son has come, but he looks so worried. Make them happy. When you are happy, your parents will also be happy. Parents are very important. It is our duty to make them happy. If we enquire why we have been born, it is to make our parents happy. It is not enough if you eat well for yourself and be happy individually. That is not important. Khana, Peena, Sona Marna (eating, drinking, sleeping and dying) – these are very natural. We are born to make our parents happy. Once we make our parents happy, others will also make their parents happy. So, we should have good ideals. Then you will get fulfilment. Therein lies the fulfilment of having been educated in Sathya Sai College. Bhagawan desires that you should get this good name.
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| Serve your mother and father. Visit hospitals and serve patients. |
The sages in the past used to assemble all the graduands and give them good advice before sending them away to enter into their Grihastashrama after the completion of their studies. This occasion was called the Convocation. In the coming vacations, some among you are completing your education and going away, whilst others will return again. But whenever you go from the college to your homes, you must give lot of happiness to others and you must also experience lot of happiness. Never get into bad company. One of the boys who spoke said, “Satsangatve Nissangatvam, Nissangatve Nirmohatvam”. Join good company. Even if you have to pay money, do so, and get away from bad company. Even if you have to give up your life, do so and get into good company. Associate yourself with good company. Do not associate yourself with bad company. What will happen if you associate yourself with bad company? Tell me your company, I shall tell you what you are. You will also become bad, in the company of bad people. Therefore, run away from bad company and serve your parents.
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| I do everything through students… |
Parents do not know anything about Sai Baba. Students know because they come here. We have to develop the spirit among such children. You must call those children and tell them, “Your parents do not like your staying here and studying here, but you explain to them in a nice way. Never speak untruth. You must say – mother, father, you are telling me not to follow the path of Sai Baba, but Sai Baba is showing us such a good path. Truly speaking, if I had not gone to Sai Baba’s school, I would have got spoilt by now. Because of going to Sai Baba’s school, I have become so good now. So, you must explain nicely to your mother that this is your situation.
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| Maintain Satvic diet. When food and head go together in the wrong direction, one forgets God. |
Today we need good students. That is why I have established these educational institutions. There are no bad books in our library. Students will not do anything wrong even if told by teachers. Students will never entertain bad thoughts. When they go home to their parents, during their leave, they do not stay there for long. The mother tells her son, “Oh son, you have stayed away for one year in Brindavan, you have stayed away for one year in Puttaparthi, how is it you do not relish any other types of preparations that I make here at home?” The son will get up and say, “Mother, this is not good for you also. This food is related to Rajoguna. As is the food, so is the head and the thoughts. When this food and head get together in the wrong direction, one forgets God. Therefore, do not change your food habits. Eat a lot of green leafy vegetables. Eat more vegetables. Do not partake junk food. Bangaru (dear ones, literally gold), once you have these good food habits, you will become good.
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| One who adheres to the twin principles of Sathya and Dharma is a true Bhaaratheeya |
Embodiments of Love! When people from every part of the world have gathered here at Prasanthi Nilayam to rejoice in a great celebration, they are being considered as “foreigners” and the residents of Prasanthi Nilayam as “natives”. Who are the natives and who are the foreigners? When this difference is examined, it will be seen that wherever Truth and Righteousness are being promoted and manifested, people there are to be deemed as Bhaaratheeyas. By merely taking birth in Bhaarath, people do not become Bhaaratheeyas. Bhaaratheeya culture proclaims the two virtues: Sathyam Vada; Dharmam Chara (speak the truth; follow righteousness). Whoever adheres to these two principles is a Bhaaratheeya.
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| Offer respect to any work before commencing the same |
During Upanishadic times, people would offer their salutations to the karma (action) before undertaking it —Thasmai Namah Karmane(salutations to the action). We have to offer our salutations to the action in the first instance so that the action gives us good results. In Bhaarath, people follow this sacred tradition even today before starting any work. A cricket player pays his respects to the ball before starting to play. A dancer salutes the anklets before tying them to her feet. Even an uneducated driver offers his obeisance to the steering wheel before driving the vehicle. These are all ancient traditions and culture. But today, we are forgetting these ancient traditions and culture. That is why accidents are on the rise. There is a sense of fear and delusion among people everywhere. What is the reason? We are not saluting to our actions first. First of all, we have to offer our obeisance and then pay our respect to the action so as to express our gratitude before undertaking it. Before you start any work, you must salute that work and then start working (Here Bhagawan corrects the translator saying – not salute. Respect the work). Therefore, every man has to understand his duty properly and discharge the same. Before the commencement of any music programme, musicians pray to Vinayaka. They do so in order to make sure that there are no obstacles.
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| Offer the inner pure Satvic core without the external fiber of Tamas and the shell of Rajas |
In many of the religious practices today, there is concern only for observing the external forms, with little regard for the inner significance of these rites. For instance, one wishes to offer a coconut to the idol in a temple. No care is taken to see whether the coconut is a good one or not. The mere breaking of a coconut, even if it is a rotten one, is considered enough for fulfilling the offering. Note the inner significance of the ritual. The coconut is a symbol of the heart. Before it is offered to God, all the outer fibre has to be removed. In the spiritual sense, this means, removing the Tamasictendencies from our heart. The shell of the coconut symbolises the Rajoguna in us. The white kernel inside the coconut represents the Satvaguna. What we have to offer to God is a pure heart, without the Tamasic and Rajasicqualities such as anger, hatred and attachment. It is this purity of heart that must be manifested in making any offering to God and not the mechanical breaking of a coconut as a meaningless ritual.
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| Eliminate the water of tendencies in us and the core of our heart will drift away from the kernel of body consciousness |
The word Narikelastands for a coconut. Every Bhaaratheeya must grasp the inner meaning of offering a coconut to God. We never offer the coconut as it is. We remove the fibre that covers it and offer the fruit that is free from all the external fibre. Only then is it possible to break the coconut. By breaking the coconut, the water in it flows out. The heart is the coconut and it is covered by the fibre of desire. The water that flows out is the samskara or purification (of tendencies). The fibres on the surface are the desires. We must strip the heart of all desires and offer the core without the fibre. It then becomes an offering to God.
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| Green leaves festoons bestow health and happiness on people |
Since ancient times, in Bhaarath, traditions are being adhered to implicitly. People decorate their houses with buntings of green leaves on festival days. This practice assumes great significance in the state of Kerala. Big pandals (fabricated structure during religious ceremonies) of green leaves and plantain stalks and leaves are erected. Green leaves are given place of prominence in such decorations. This decoration is done during marriages too. Why do we decorate with these green leaves? Can’t we pay some money and have a Shamiana (popular Indian tent shelter) instead? No, that is not in accordance with our ancient tradition. What is the logic behind this decoration of pandals with green leaves and green festoons? At the time of marriages, many people gather at one place. As you are aware, we inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. Too much carbon dioxide in the air affects our breathing. The green leaves absorb this carbon dioxide and release oxygen. In this manner, they bestow health and happiness on the people.
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| Green leaves absorb Carbon Dioxide and release Oxygen Image Source |
There are some practices that have a subtle scientific meaning. Our Bharatiyas, during festivals, marriages and other auspicious occasions; tie mango leaves, green leaves at the entrance door. We also tie plantain saplings. The foolish scientists, who do not understand the inner significance of this practice, wonder why these Bharatiyas so foolishly tie all these stupid things. They ask, “Why can they not tie plastic mango leaves that will remain permanent? Why should we cut these branches and leaves from the tree? Why should we destroy them? Instead we can tie plastic festoons”.
It is not that. Our ancients were not foolish. They were highly intelligent, wise and full of Divine feelings. The inner meaning of this practice is that, when ten (or so) people assemble together, the atmosphere gets polluted. When they breathe out, they release carbon dioxide into the air. This carbon dioxide spreads across to all and proves harmful to them. The green leaves (tied as decorations) take in this poisonous carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Therefore, when many people gather at a place, the green leaves prevent the air from becoming poisonous (on account of CO2) and keeps it clean and pure. Today the houses are built in a modern fashion with big halls, doors and windows. But in the past, houses were not built in that manner. In ancient times, houses had very small doors. In these small houses, when 20 and odd people would assemble on occasions such as a marriage, the breath exhaled by them would make the air poisonous. The green leaves would take in all this carbon dioxide and release fresh oxygen into the air. It is having this meaning in their view, that the elders started this practice of tying green leaves decorations. Can you call this foolishness? The one calls this (practice) foolish, is indeed a fool.
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| Cow dung keeps away disease causing germs and helps heal wounds |
When there is any festival, people sprinkle cow dung mixed with water in front of their homes. It is considered to be auspicious. Some even prepare Rangoli (decorative designs) on the floor. What is the reason for spraying cow dung water? Cow dung destroys disease-causing germs and keeps them away because of its odour. Cow dung can cure many diseases. Today people of other countries have recognised this truth and are taking full advantage of it. But the Bhaarateeyas are not making efforts to understand its importance.
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| Cow-dung has antiseptic properties Image Source |
In olden times, there was a practice that on festivals and other auspicious occasions, cow-dung mixed with water used to be sprinkled at the entrance of the houses. Today we think, why should we sprinkle this cow-dung paste, can we not lay a marble or marblex floor and keep the place clean and tidy? No. No. This cow-dung has antiseptic property; it has the power to kill (microorganisms). When the cow-dung paste is sprinkled at the entrance of the homes, poisonous insects and organisms around the houses would get destroyed. Thereby, people progressed with good health.
Let any scientist today experiment with the use of cow-dung. Unfortunately, they do not experiment with cow-dung. They instead experiment with the sun and the moon. The mindless scientists experiment with objects that lie crores of miles away from us, instead of experimenting with organisms that lie so close to us and cause harm to us. Thus, our ancients started all these practices to correct and promote a sacred, healthy and happy life for mankind.
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| Smearing steps with turmeric and vermillion Image Source |
In the past, women made extensive use of turmeric powder. They used to smear the doorstep with turmeric and place kumkum (vermillion) on it. These have antiseptic properties, the power to destroy (microorganisms). They helped to destroy any microorganisms and insects that would otherwise enter the houses. Today we ask, “why should we apply that turmeric, is it not enough if we use yellow paint”. The yellow paint may help to decorate, but it does not have the (antiseptic) power to kill. Thus our ancients had some inner meaning and scared use in every small practice that they initiated.
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| Smearing turmeric on face Image Source |
Our Bharatiyas (mostly women) placed kumkum (vermillion) (on their foreheads). They also used to smear turmeric (on their faces). The ancients! That is why, at one point, I wrote a song:
By smearing turmeric, the faces (of the women) would take on a golden complexion. The application of turmeric also helped to prevent the growth of hair on the face. The antiseptic properties of turmeric and vermillion helped in preventing any microorganisms from getting into the body through the nose or the mouth. By the giving up of these practices today, diseases like Eosinophilia and asthma are spreading, as microorganisms are entering inside the body easily. Health and happiness are the two goals of life. Only when we are healthy, can we be happy. If we go on speaking like this, in our Bharatiya culture, there are so many day to day practices that lead only to welfare and cause no harm.
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| In ancient Bhaarath one had to bend the head in reverence to enter homes |
Do you know the ancient customs and traditions? They used to build big mansions with small doors. Do you know why they kept such small doors? We think that these small doors were placed to prevent thieves from entering the houses and escaping with ease. No, that was not the reason. These doors were purposely kept low to enable the visitors and guests to observe the custom of entering the houses with their heads bent in reverence to the inmates. Even the windows and doors of homes teach the lesson of respect. Such ancient traditions have been forgotten today. Nowadays you will not find even a ‘gadapa’ (threshold) to the door frame of the main entrance to the house. They think that the threshold is an unnecessary hindrance to enter the house. Why the extra effort to step over and cross the threshold? No, it is not a hindrance at all! In ancient times, they would keep broad thresholds at the doorstep. Again people think that these thresholds were placed to prevent thieves from entering the houses and escaping with ease! No. No. Whether we go to the houses of others or whether others visit our homes, we all need to bend our heads in respect and enter the homes. This is the true reason and not preventing escape of thieves. The ancient traditions of Bhaarath are thus practised with utmost humility, obedience and sincerity.
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| Feeding insects and animals helps one to atone for sins committed unconsciously |
When we take a bath, wash our clothes, or sweep the house, many living creatures may be losing their lives. To atone for the death of such creatures, Bhoota Yajnas (offerings to the Bhoothas – Beings) have to be performed to satisfy these creatures. This practice has come down from the times of ancient sages. The rishis used to maintain satvic animals like deer, peacocks and cows in their ashrams and look after them with loving care; both for their own requirements and also as an expression of their love for them. Following this tradition, people used to scatter sugar or flour near the anthills for feeding the ants. To offer the remains of one’s food after a meal, to birds or dogs or other creatures is also a form of Bhoota Yajna. Even today many people keep cows, dogs, birds or other pets at home and take good care of them. By showing love towards living things in this way, some atonement is made for the unconscious harm done to various creatures in daily life.
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| Each spoonful of water taken with the chanting of the right mantra reaches the appropriate Deity |
The modern students do not understand our ancient culture. How sacred it is. Samasta Lokaa Sukhino Bhavantu. Our culture always prayed for the welfare of all beings.
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| Sensual Cravings must be burnt away like Camphor |
The waving of the camphor flame at the end of the bhajan sessions is to remind you that your sensual cravings must be burnt away without leaving any trace behind, and you must offer yourself to God for being merged with His Glory.
One of the greatest obstacles to spiritual progress is the “Ego” or the “Ahamkaaram”. Bhagawan in His inimitable way makes it so easy to understand this, by splitting the word “Ahamkaaram” as “Aham (I) + Aakaaram (Form)”, which means “I am this body (form)”. Getting over this attachment / obsession to the physical body is indeed a great challenge. In this posting, Bhagawan explains to us the right approach we need to have towards the human body.
In the 1st audio clip, Bhagawan compares the human body to a chariot / vehicle and states that we need to protect it to the extent necessary but keep our eye always on the ultimate goal of life. In the 2nd clip, He explains how today we are steering our vehicles (human bodies) on the wrong path and thus facing so many difficulties. He gives some interesting statistics that reflects the state of affairs today, with respect to our approach to the physical body. In the 3rd clip, Bhagawan draws an analogy between a car getting stuck up in a slush with our human body getting stuck up in this Samsaara (worldly life). In the 4thclip, Bhagawan condemns our over obsession with the physical body, which has no use without the life force that activates it. In the 5th clip, Bhagawan clarifies that He does not expect us to completely ignore our human body, but is only asking us to give the right attention to it; without getting too obsessed with it. Finally, in the 6th clip, Bhagawan advises us to regard our body as a vehicle meant for journeying to the ultimate goal of life. He finally cajoles the students to uphold Dharma and protect the Bhaaratiya Sanskruti (Culture) acting as its custodians. It is to be noted here that Bhagawan has clearly stated that “Bhaarath” does not mean the geographical country of “India”. However, “Bhaarath”, Bhagawan says refers to a “way of life”.
Each audio clip has a name that adopts the following code: Serial number, Title appropriate to the key content, Duration of the clip, Year-Month-Date of the Clip. Below the title is the translation in English of the select excerpt of the Discourse, followed by the audio player. The post ends with a short quiz that would help you evaluate your assimilation of Bhagawan’s Message from these extracts.
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| The Human Body is like a Vehicle |
We must consider our human body as a chariot and no more than that. We must make sure that the various components of this chariot do not come to any harm or face any difficulties. That is all. All other efforts must relate only to the principle of the Brahman, and we must use this chariot to return to the principle of Brahman, from which we have started the journey of our life.
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| People are driving their vehicle (body) on crooked paths and damaging the spare parts of the vehicle. |
Today we are not driving our chariot (of the human body) on the right path. We are driving our vehicle on to crooked paths are thus facing many difficulties and are also damaging many of the spare parts of this vehicle in the process. Nearly 80% of the human beings are spoiling and damaging their vehicles in this manner. From the balance 20%, close to 15% of the human beings are treating their vehicles (of the human body) like cars in a show room. They are decorating them very well, eating all the time, not realizing the true goal of life and are getting totally drowned in the darkness of this worldly life, and are leading a life and enjoying happiness worse than animals. Having got this vehicle (of the human body) that is meant to be used for travel, if we do not put this vehicle into any use, for the purpose of travelling or for helping others to travel, then we may as well regard this vehicle as a mere mass of metal.
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| An unused car is equivalent to a mere mass of metal! |
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| Like a car caught up in slush, we are caught up in Samsaara (worldly life) |
There is one aspect that we have to bear in mind. Just because we can sit in the car and take the vehicle wherever we want, if we drive the vehicle onto roads that are not good, we would to face many difficulties. That is, if we drive the car into places where there are no roads, or onto the hills or into the river, then we would have to undergo many tribulations and losses. In the same manner, if we take this human body into places where it should not be taken, where it is forbidden to go, then we would have to face lot of criticism, abuse, difficulties and losses too. Just as when the car gets stuck up in slush, we would need the help of so many people to lift the car out; so too when this car of the human body enters into the world and gets stuck up in the mud of Samsaara (worldly life), we would need the help of Satsang (company of noble souls) and the advice of elders to help us come out of this fix.
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| We are giving too much importance to our physical body |
As we are giving too much importance to this human body which is of no great use, we are not able to understand our state, our destination and our sacredness. The skin of a dead animal may be used for so many purposes, but the body of a dead human being can be put to no use. Youth must understand that it is against the duty of mankind to be so obsessed with the insignificant human body, as to forget what is truly sacred and what the true goal of our life is.
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| If we keep decorating our vehicle (body) and polishing it all the time, what is the use of having such a vehicle? |
Students, Swami is not saying that you must completely ignore the human body, or not take care of its upkeep, or ignore its health. We have so many vehicles – cycle, scooter, motorcycle, car, bus or even a bullock cart. We need to regularly keep them clean, fill oil or petrol and make sure they are in proper condition. This forms part of one’s duty. In the same manner, our human body is like a chariot. Just as we take care of a cycle or a car, by wiping it, filling oil or petrol and maintaining it in good condition, in the same manner, for this human body that has been given to us to make the journey of life, we need to clean it from time to time, offer it food that is required, and keep it in proper condition. This is of utmost importance. But, forgetting our very life, if we keep decorating our body, filling it with petrol, and keeping on polishing it all the time, then what is the use of having such a vehicle?
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| Use the vehicle (body) for reaching your true destination and for upholding Dharma |
Therefore, as we have donned this vehicle of the human body, we must see to it that there is no harm to this body, there is no obstacle to our journey, and that we reach our goal safely. To this extent we must take care of our human body. Beyond that we must always keep our focus on the goal, on our destination and travel along the journey of our life in this world. This is the supreme path.
We need to be extremely grateful to our Spiritual Master Bhagawan Baba who has so clearly presented to us the true spirit of the various prescribed spiritual practices. This gives us a right perspective and prevents us from missing out the wood for the trees. In this posting, we have Bhagawan Baba explaining to us the true spirit of all Upaasanaa (Worship), listening to Upanyaasam (Spiritual Discourses) and Paaraayanam (Chanting the name of God / study of spiritual texts / sharing the Glory of God).
There are six Discourse excerpts presented in this posting. These have been selected from the Discourses given by Bhagawan Baba in the years 1996 and 1997.
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| Time is God. Don’t waste time. Time waste is life waste |
Vyasa composed the 18 Puraanaas. But eventually, where are the people who read these Puraanaas? There is just no free time for all this. Many people think they must read these Puraanaas, but they say that they do not have the time to read these. In case they have to undertake some Vratam (spiritual vows), they say they have no time at all, they have lot of office work, they have a number of business errands or they have lot of studies to cope up with. In this way, they give reasons based on their position and status in life.
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| I install Myself in the hearts of those who sing the glory of God |
At one time, Narada asked Lord Vishnu. Swami, all the time, in order to have your Darshan, I come to the place where you are there. But at times, there may be an emergency. At such times, if I need to see you or send word to you, where would you be? Where is your head office? Is it at Vaikuntam, or at Kailasa or in Heaven? Then Lord Vishnu said, “Narada, take down my address. Mad Bhaktaaha Yatra Gaayanti, Tatra Thishthami Narada. Narada, this Kailasa, this Vaikuntam, this heaven; these are all branch offices. My head office is – Mad Bhaktaaha Yatra Gaayanti – where my devotees sing my glory – Tatra Thishthami Narada – therein I install Myself Narada. At other places, I am just a procession idol. However, in the head office I install Myself. He said “install Myself” and not just “reside therein”. Therefore, every heart is the dwelling place of God. Hence, man should not imagine that he is just a man. All are verily forms of God Himself!
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| For true experience, both “nearness” and “dearness” are essential |
We study the Ramayana, the Bhagavata, the Bhagavd Gita and perform so many Paaraayanaas(chanting the name of God / studying scriptural texts / sharing the glory of God). But what is the use? Everyday we do Paaraayanaaof the Bhagavatha and the Bhagavd Gita. Everyday we chant the Sahasranaamaa (1008 names of the Lord). All this is merely textual knowledge. But we need practical knowledge. It is enough if we practice at least one teaching (of these scriptures). If we enquire in this manner, it is a matter of shame and embarrassment to call ourselves devotees. We are there very close possibly. But we are like frogs on the flower. On the other hand, honey bees come from far off places and suck the nectar from the flower and go away.
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| Spirituality has become a sort of fashion these days! |
How is the practice these days? If there is some spiritual discourse, some Harikatha (story of God), or some other narration of the glory of God, all the people go there to listen. So long as these discourses, talks and Harikathas go on, vibrations of renunciation keeps manifesting in the people, over and over! How long do these vibrations, emotions and renunciation last? The moment the discourse gets over, these too vanish. What is heard, is not treasured even till they reach their homes. So what is the use of listening to any number of discourses that preach “Anityam Asukham Lokam” (this world is ephemeral and full of sorrow). It is all only listening, but no practice. Only when we practice, we will realize the benefit. Only when you eat, you come to know the taste and the hunger is satiated. We can also assimilate its strength. We do not know the taste. Why? Because we are not eating. We are unable to get rid of the weakness. Why? Because we are not digesting what is eaten. What is heard has to be eaten (absorbed) and what is eaten has to be digested (assimilated).
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| By the time you leave the Hall, the spiritual discourse is forgotten! |
There was a devotee. He had been attending spiritual discourses since 16 years. What were these discourses about? They were the stories of Lord Rama. Everyday, there would be a discourse on the life of Lord Rama. The quality of detachment is found extensively in the story of Lord Rama. His whole life was full of difficulties. To add to it, the Pundit was narrating the story with all the more feelings and emotions. The Pundit laid down the discipline that whosoever attends these spiritual discourses should do so without absenting themselves even for a day. Because, if people miss the discourse, the crowd will appear less! The Pundit wanted the pride of having large crowds attending his discourse. Therefore the Pundit had laid down the rule that unless one attends these discourses everyday without missing even one day, they would not receive the benefits / results of this Paaraayanam.
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| One teaspoon of cow’s milk is enough, why barrels and barrels of donkey’s milk? |
Therefore practice is most important. All these texts like the Ramayana, Mahabharatha, Bhagawatha, Koran, Bible, etc. have not been written for the sake of Paaraayanaa (i.e. sacred reading or chanting). For that matter, any religious text is not meant for mere Paaraayanam. They all have been written for the purpose of practising. However, today there is no practice. We just study / read / chant these texts. We say, “Oh! From so many years we are doing Paaraayanam of the Ramayana, the Bhagavad Gita. We are regularly chanting the Vishnu Sahasranaama. But what is the use of doing all these Paaraayanas? All these Paaraayanaas are leaving us and running away! Why then should we undertake these Paaraayanaas? Take up at least one Paaraayanam (in the true spirit). Practice at least one teaching. That is enough. Why? Because, one spoonful of cow’s milk is enough, why barrels and barrels of donkey’s milk? A teaspoon of cow’s milk is useful. Therefore, put into practice.
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| Lingodbhavam |
There are nine Discourse excerpts presented in this posting. These have been selected from the Discourses given by Bhagawan Baba over a number of years – 1977, 1987, 1991, 1997, 2000 and 2004.
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| Shivaratri is the night of auspiciousness |
We call this night as Shivaratri. In fact we spend so many nights. But why do we specially call this night as Shivaratri? Shivaratri means the night of auspiciousness. Therefore, this auspicious night has to be spent chanting the auspicious name of the Lord. Shivaratri does not mean just keeping awake the whole night. Many people wish to keep a night long vigil, and so what do they do? Telugu poem – Merely by playing cards the whole night you cannot claim to have done Jaagaranaa (night long vigil). Keeping awake by watching 3 to 4 cinemas (movies) cannot amount to Jaagaranaa. Shivaratri means, the night has to be spent chanting the name of the Lord only. This chanting has to come from within. That is why it is called “reflection of the inner being”. The holy name that comes from within is called the principle of Shiva.
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| Source and not force |
Whatever we do, we must do it whole heartedly, with love. It must be Prema source (love from the source) and not Prema force (love through force). These days we do everything out of force. This is not correct. You must do things (chanting the name of God) wholeheartedly, even if it may be for just half a minute. One teaspoon of sugar is enough, one teaspoon of cow’s milk is adequate, why barrels of donkey’s milk?
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| Focus on the 12th entity – The Paramaatmaa |
The message of Shivaratri is this. The ten senses of man are the ones responsible for drawing him on the wrong path. There are four syllables in the word Shivaratri: Shi, Va, Raa, Tri. There is a close relationship between numerology and the meaning of these four letters. ‘Shi’ symbolizes the number 5, ‘Va’ represents the number 4, ‘Raa’ indicates the number 2. Adding 5+4+2, we get the number 11. Five Karmendriyaas(sensory organs of action), five Jnaanendriyaas(sensory organs of perception) and the mind make a total of 11. These 11 are the Rudraas – the Ekaadasha Rudraas. What do these Ekaadasha Rudraas do? They drown man in the world of sensory objects, enhance their mean desires, and get them lost in worldly life. Beyond these 11 there is one entity and that is the Paramaatmaa (supreme Self). Only when we catch hold of the 12th, we will be able to control our sense organs. Therefore, we must take great care of this 12th entity – the Paramaatmaa. (You would need to increase the master volume for this clip)
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| On Shivaratri night, the mind has to conquer one aspect alone |
Shivaratri means the night of auspiciousness. Night basically symbolizes darkness. Chandramaa Manaso Jaataha Chaksho Suryoajaayataa. There is a close relationship between the mind and the moon. Today is Chaturdashi– the 14th day of the waning phase of the moon. The moon has 16 aspects and the mind of man also has 16 aspects. Tonight 15 aspects of the moon and therefore the mind have been overcome and just one aspect alone is left. Therefore, we are very close to our true goal. Hence, humanity being so close to God today, whosoever chants the name of the Lord today, with a pure heart, will be benefited greatly. It is very necessary to spend the time today thinking only about God and not allowing our mind to be diverted towards anything else. Not even a fraction of a second must be wasted during this most valuable period. Time reduces every second just like a block of ice! Our life span reduces continuously just like water diminishes in a pot with a hole. Thus we must not make every effort not to postpone the worship by thinking that we can do all this sometime later. Such great good fortune that we have got now must be experienced with all happiness and must be made purposeful.
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| All wrong understanding… |
Unfortunately, this most auspicious festival of Shivatri, on account of not being able to understand its true significance, is being misused by people of the world. If by playing cards, one keeps awake the whole night, can it amount to Jaagaranaa? If one concentrates on the water in the tank so as to catch some fish, will such concentration lead one to liberation? If one gets heavily drunk, can it take him to a state of super-consciousness? If one gets angry with his wife and does not partake food, can it be called fasting (upavaasaa)? However, the youth of today watch 3 cinemas, 4 cinemas, thinking that it is just enough if one keeps awake the whole night, in whatever way; and thus misuse the opportunity. All these are not sacred means at all. If the same money that one would spend on the 3-4 cinemas, if one would use that for feeding 3 to 4 beggars starving on account of hunger, how much merit one would get, how much peace one would get, what a noble task one would have accomplished. Thus we must participate in such noble endeavours and to the extent possible, spiritual aspirants must engage in service to the nation, service to humanity, service to society, service to the individual and consider all this as service to the Lord. This is Bhagawan’s wish.
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| Pray for the welfare of the whole world |
Embodiments of Love! Today is the great and sacred festival of Shivaratri. This is a special kind of night among all the nights. Nights are always associated with darkness, but this particular night is not associated with darkness. You must consider this night as a night of sacred auspiciousness – one of Prajnaana, Vignaana and Sugnaana, one of brightness. Therefore we must spend this night with a pure mind, with sacred feelings, with a prayer that the whole world must be happy – Lokaa Samastaa Sukhino Bhavantu, all beings must have a sacred heart, all must have a sacred intellect – Dhiyoyonah Prachodayaat. Gandhi also said, “Sabako Sanmati De Bhagawaan”. Gandhi was a great devotee of Rama who prayed for a noble mind to be bestowed on all. Therefore you must always pray for all beings to have a good mind. This sacred night if you pray with a sacred heart, on account of you – the Bharathodaarakaas, I wish that Bharath will shine eternally with continuous auspiciousness and celebrity – Nitya Kalyanam Pachha Toranam.
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| Turning the mind towards God is true devotion |
Last night (19th February 2004, Shivaratri night), at 1.00 am I came here. I saw. All devotees and students are singing happily. But who among the devotees were the real devotees? Those with a steady mind, chanting the name of God with detachment, are the real devotees. All are seated here. In the hall there are thousands seated, but all are not devotees. The body is seated here but the mind is not focused on God. Therefore directing mind towards God is true devotion. You may sit anywhere, but the mind must feel the proximity of the Lord. You can experience Divinity there itself. If you feel sleepy, you may go to sleep. But even in your sleep, keep the principle of Divinity in your mind. Therefore, true wisdom, true awareness lies in the experience of oneness in the three states of existence – waking, dream and deep sleep. At any point of time, keep the principle of Divinity in mind. It is only because of love for God, that you have stayed awake and come and sat here at that hour (midnight). If you did not have love, you would have as well slept in your home. But sacrificing that sleep, coming over here, sitting below a tree, resting the back against the tree, they consider this as a Divine experience. This is true devotion. You do not need any convenience, any happiness, any food. At such time only, you can experience the principle of Swami, the oneness. You may go anywhere, but have total control over your mind.
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| Every night is the night of Shivatri |
Do not consider that Shivaratri comes only once in a year. We must consider every night as the night of Shivaratri. Where we think about God, where noble thoughts come to our mind, there manifests Shivaratri. Shivam Mangalam. Shivam is auspiciousness, meaning giving up one’s ego is Shivam. The people who know Telugu can understand this very well. In the Telugu script, when the mark (horn) on the letter ‘Sha’ is removed, it reads as ‘Shi’. Then it becomes Shivam (auspicious). But if we do not remove that horn, it remains as Shavam(dead body). What is the difference between Shivamand Shavam. With the horn of ego, it is Shavam (dead body), without the horn of ego it is Shivam(auspicious). So everyone must kill this ego.
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| Om Namah Shivaya |
In this posting, we have Bhagawan Baba revealing the secret of creation, the mystery of His “Cosmic Operating System” to us. He reminds us of the “Cosmic Contract” (CC) that we all souls wilfully entered into, when we chose to separate ourselves from Him, to enjoy this beautiful, wonderful, thrilling experience of the manifest world! There are five Discourse excerpts presented in this posting. These have been selected from the Discourses given by Bhagawan Baba in the year 1996.
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| You are free to enjoy My Creation as you want! |
This world is so beautiful, modern, invaluable and unique. Nature is beauty! Human life has all the faculties and power of the five elements, five life forces, five life sheaths, and the five senses. All material happiness required from dawn to dusk has been provided for mankind. There is nothing lacking in this creation. You can get anything – right from mud to gems! God has gifted everything that man needs and desires, so that he can be happy. God gave full freedom and independence to man. He allowed man to take charge of the entire creation. Man is free to experience and enjoy any material happiness in this manifest world. He needs to have no fear. He can act as he wants – as per his likes and dislikes, whims and fancies and seek any results he wants. Everything is God’s creation. Right from the ant to Brahman, the right to everything was handed over to man. No one needs to wait for the command of God. This is the law of Nature. Each one can follow the path he wants, fulfil his desires and experience happiness.
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| As is the seed, so is the fruit… |
BUT…God laid down just one stipulation! You can enjoy whatever you want, but whatever it maybe – good or bad, sacred or unsacred, eternal or transient – you are bound to face the consequences of your action. Keeping this in view, man should decide what actions he should undertake, what path he should follow and what tasks he should engage in. As is the seed – so is the fruit. As is the action – so is the reward.
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| Every action will be accounted for, without fail… |
Telugu poem – Do not imagine that you can achieve this or that at your will. You will get the fruits of your actions – come what may. You are here because of your past actions and you will reap the appropriate fruits. You can never get fruits contrary to your actions. Whatever you may do, everything will be counted, one by one, be it good or bad, without missing anything, Brahma will send you with a Heavy garland – a Kanta garland – a necklace made with the fruits of our past actions. God never commands you to do this or that. You are empowered to decide what is good and what is not.
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| You can never escape the consequences of your actions! |
God will never come in the way of your actions. If you do bad, He will say, fine – go ahead, it is your wish. If you do good also, He will say – good, go ahead. BUT you can never escape the consequences of your actions. This is the only stipulation. The one who understands this essential truth will be able to experience true bliss.
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| Eventually man blames God…. |
Telugu poem – You sow poisonous seeds and expect good and sweet fruits out of it. When you are unable to eat the bitter fruits and do not get what you want, you blame God and accuse Him. Is this the mistake of God? He gave you complete freedom to experience what you want. But you should be able to exercise your intellect while experiencing this freedom.
This posting is about reflecting on the presence of God! The debate about God being there and not being there has taken place since ages. As Mahtama Gandhi says, “…but He is no God who merely satisfies the intellect, if He ever does. God to be God must rule the heart and transform it.”
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| The defect is in one’s vision (Drushti) and not in creation (Srushti) |
Since ancient times, some say God exists. Others deny God’s existence. In this manner, the debate goes on and people waste their precious time. The blind individual cannot see the bright shining sun. An individual who closes his eyes cannot see the world. Just on account of this, can we say that there is no sun or there exists no world? No. No. The sun is there, but there is no vision. The world is there, but the individual has closed his eyes. Thus the truth emerges that the defect lies in one’s vision (Drushti) and not in the creation (Srushti).
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| That which is unseen is the basis of all the seen |
If God truly exists, why is one not able to see Him? Are we able to believe all that we see or are we unable to believe it? Ano Raneeyan Mahato Maheeyan. He is in the smallest of the small and in the biggest of the big. You may not be able to see Him, but you can experience Him. This is a flower. We are able to see the flower. If asked what it is, we say that it is a rose flower. But you cannot see its smell. You can only experience the smell of the rose flower. Smell has no form, but the flower that gives the smell has a form. Love. What is the form of Love? Love has no form. But the mother who loves you has a form! Therefore, whatever it may be, be it love, joy or fragrance; these have no smell, but the one that gives these has a form. The one with the form is able to give that which has no form. Therefore it is foolishness on the part of humanity to be so obsessed with Pratyaksha Pramana – direct evidence or empirical evidence.
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| God is Now Here! |
Here is a small example. Now on this stage, is Sai Baba there or not? Yes, he is there. But on what basis do we say so? We say so on the basis of His Form. After the Discourse, Sai Baba retires. Then, is Sai Baba there on the stage or not? No. Thus, we are able to negate that which was present before. If Sai Baba Himself did not exist, then the question of “being there’ or “not being there” would not arise at all. Likewise, because God exists, the debate as to “He is there” or “He is not there” arises. Because there is God, the word “not there” arises, else the word “not there” would not arise at all. Anil Kumar (the translator) says, “There is God”. This means, the Truth comes first. “There is….”. That means “exists”. Who exists? God. “Who exists” is the second part. “There is” is the first part. There is. Who? God. Only then, one can say, “There is no God”. “There is” comes first and “no God” comes second. Therefore, Truth always comes first.
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| Why are we not able to see God? |
Iswara exists in all in the form of conscience. Isavaasyam Idam Jagath. The whole world is the manifestation of God. Iswara Sarva Bhootaanaam. God is present in all. Therefore, if we ask in whom does God exist? The answer is that He exists in all. But why can we not see Him? Students, you know there are different varieties of Japa Mala (prayer beads). We have the Tulasi Japa Mala, Lotus seed Japa Mala, Rudraksha (utrasum beads) Japa Mala, and the Sphatika (crystal) Japa Mala. In all these there is one thread binding them (beads). We cannot see the thread in a Rudraksha Japa Mala, nor can wee the thread in a Lotus seed Japa Mala. We cannot see the thread even in a Tulasi Japa Mala. However, we can see the binding thread only in a Sphatika Japa Mala.
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| Pashyannapicha Na Pashyati Moodho Moodho Moodho |
God is not somewhere far. He is everywhere. Wherever you see, He is there. Sarvatra Paanipaaadam, Tatsarvatochi Shiromukhma, Sarvatra Shrutimanloke, Sarvamaam Prathisthati. When He is there wherever we see, why should we search for Him? You do not need to search for Him, you do not need to see Him. All that is seen is with the physical eyes. The physical eyes see only the external world. The external world too is the very form of God. Pashyannapicha Na Pashyati Moodho Moodho Moodho. O Fool, all that you are seeing is verily God. All the heads symbolize the Cosmic Form. You go by the transient name and form and consider all as humans, but if you really keep God in your sight, everything will appear as God only.
Bhagawan says, “Tell me your company and I shall tell you what you are”. It is our company that decides our destiny! In this posting, Bhagawan highlights the importance of maintaining a good company. He describes at length the negative consequences of getting into bad company. He draws a number of analogies to drive home the impact of thoughts on our mind, body and consequent behaviour.
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| Going up or coming down depends on one’s company |
Though human life is sacred, good and bad get into one’s life based on one’s company. When iron is in the company of dust it gets rusted. However, the same iron when put into fire, the rust is got rid off and it becomes red hot and soft. The dust in the company of air goes up into the sky, but the very same dust in the company of water goes down. The dust has no wings to fly high nor does it have legs to go down. Going up or coming down depends on the company.
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| Tell me your company, I shall tell you what you are |
In bad company, man develops bad feelings and bad actions. For all this thought is the main cause. Thoughts should be pure and sacred. But man entertains bad feelings and thoughts at a tender age and wastes his life thereafter. Iron in the company of rust becomes dust. It then bursts and it has to be subject to test. Only then it gets rest! This is the goal. So first the rust should be wiped out. Bad company and bad feelings are the rust. All these are the result of bad company. Tell me your company and I shall tell you what you are.
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| Bad thoughts will put you to great misery |
Bad thoughts are the main cause for our misery. Therefore, we need to discriminate – are these good thoughts or bad thoughts. Bad thoughts put you into difficulties. Hurting others, causing harm to others is very bad. But eventually it will rebound in a still worse way on you. Bad thoughts are not natural to mankind. When a stone is thrown into a well, the ripples spread across the water. Similarly when a thought is pelted into the lake of the human mind, it will spread all across the body. It will enter the eyes and make the looks bad. So too with the ears, mouth, hands, legs and all parts of the body. These bad thoughts will make all the sense organs act badly. So you will be put to great misery.
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| Saints and animals live peacefully and harmoniously |
Sages and saints meditate in thick forests in the midst of wild animals. Many cruel and wild animals move around. However, these saints have no pistols or rifles or any other weapons. These saints and animals live peacefully and harmoniously. Looking at these animals the saints are not afraid nor are the animals frightened of the saints. This is because of the pure love in the saints. This makes an impact on the animals. Therefore, as is the company so is the effect. If we develop good company we will have good qualities.
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| Man can attain Divine qualities only though good company |
Therefore influence of the company depends upon what actions one engages in.
Bhagawan says that worldly friendship is like a ship that may sink at any time in the ocean. God alone is our true friend, for He is interested in our true welfare. He is absolutely selfless and goes to any extent to ensure our well being. In this posting Bhagawan speaks about true friendship. He first defines true friendship, goes on to explain how to make good friends, and finally in a very logical way, makes His point that God alone can fit into the category of a true friend of man.
There are six Discourse excerpts presented in this posting. These are taken from Divine Discourses given by Bhagawan in the years 1996 and 2004.
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| A True Friend should be with us at all times |
What is friendship? A true friend is one who is with you at times of difficulties, in times of sorrows, worries, and problems, without ever leaving you and follows you just like your shadow. When the tank is full of water, frogs gather there in thousands. But when the tank is dry, not even one frog is seen there. So too, when we are in good position and authority, and our times are favourable, all people gather around us. But when situations worsen and reach a nadir, when circumstances are adverse and negative, people turn away from us. This is not true friendship. A true friend should be with us at all times – in times of both joy and sorrow, profit and loss. That is why, “Tell me your company, I shall tell you what you are”. Based on our company we shape ourselves accordingly. Therefore, even if we have to take some time, we need to enquire and join good company.
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| Hello Hello – Goodbye Goodbye |
Therefore, we have to take time, recognize a good friend and then make friendship with them. It is a mistake to take someone as a friend merely by they saying hello and you saying hello. Before making a friend, we need to know their background correctly. How are their habits, their behaviour and their discipline? What type of people are they mixing with, what type of company are they moving with? If they are mixing with bad company, do not even look at their face. If they say hello, say goodbye and leave them. Such friendship will put us into danger. However, the today’s students on account of modern education consider everybody as their friend. This is not true friendship. These are all passing clouds, and one never knows when they will leave us. Such friendship should be limited to “hello, hello, how are you, how are you and goodbye and goodbye”.
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| Unity of Thought, Word and Deed |
It is important to have the right type of relationships. You do not need to hate anyone. But you need to choose a friend very carefully. Rather than having a fool as a friend, it is better not to have any friend at all. Who is the right friend to choose? The one having Trikarna Shuddhi – purity and unity of thought, word and deed – Manas Ekam, Vachas Ekam Karmanyekam. Choose such a friend. Never allow a person having one thought, speaking a different word and doing something else altogether, to even come close to you. In Vedantic language, Manas Anyat, Vachas Anyat, Karmananyat Duratmanam – the one without purity and unity of thought, word and deed is a wicked person. The one with unity of thought word and deed is a true man. The proper study of mankind is man.
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| God alone is your true friend |
What do we mean by friendship? It is not merely greeting each other by saying hello-hello. It is a preparedness to work unitedly in any situation and circumstance and in any scenario. If we enquire correctly, this type of friendship is not to be found anywhere in the world. Suhrut Bhavamu – good friend – who is the good friend in this world? God alone is the true friend! Be it your mother, father, wife, husband, or son – all of them love you, but there is some trace of selfishness and self-interest. God alone loves you with no iota of selfishness or self-interest. He does not expect anything in return for His friendship. He does not receive anything from anyone. He only gives and gives but never takes.
Bhagawan has always stressed on the importance of respecting our parents and showing our gratitude to them. He puns on the word “parent” and calls it as “pay rent”. That is we need to pay our rent in the form of gratitude to our parents to whom we owe our very existence. In this posting, Bhagawan elaborates on this obligation of every son and daughter.
There are six Discourse excerpts presented in this posting. These are taken from Divine Discourses given by Bhagawan in the years 1995, 1996 and 2004.
1. Gayathri Mantra – Materialization-Vibration-Radiation-2.11-1995 Aug 23
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| Bhu, Bhuvah and Suvah are within us only |
The first line in the Gayathri Manthra is Om Bhur-Bhuva-Suvah. This manthra is imagined to refer to three worlds: the earth, the middle world and heaven (or Swarga, the land of the gods). Bhu refers to the body. It is made up of the five elements (Pancha Bhutas). These five elements constitute nature (Prakriti). There is an intimate relationship between the body and nature. The same five elements that are in nature are also in the body. Therefore, Bhu represents the physical body only. What is Bhuvah? Bhuvah is the life force that animates/pulsates the body (Praana Shakthi). Even if the life force exists, without Jnana (Awareness – which is represented by Suvah) the body will be of no use. It is on this account that the Vedas declare: Prajnaanam Brahma (Constant Integrated Awareness is Brahma). It is by the presence of Prajnaana that the life force is able to animate the body.
The body represents inert matter – materialization. The life force pulsating this body is vibration. This vibration derives its power from Prajnaana, which finds expression as radiation. Therefore, the body, the life force and the Awareness (Atma) – i.e. Bhu, Bhuvah and Suvah are within the body only, not anywhere else.
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| Gaayathri is the Mother of all Vedas |
Who is Gaayathri? Gaayathri is not a Goddess. Gaayathri is the mother of the Vedas (Gaayathri Chandasaam Maathaa). She is the essence of the four Vedas. Where is Gayathri? Gaayantham Thraayathe Ithi Gaayathri. Gaayathri redeems the chanter of the manthra. Gaayathri is present wherever the manthra is chanted.
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| Do not treat the Gaayathri Manthra casually |
The Gaayathri manthra has all the three elements which figure in the adoration of God: description, meditation and prayer. We describe God in so many ways as Sachidaananda Swarupa (one of eternal bliss), Karunaamayi (one of love), Dayaamayi (one of compassion). The essence of all these is one – Om Bhur-Bhuvas-Suvah Thath Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya. These first nine words of the mantra represent the attributes of the divine. Dheemahi pertains to Dhyaana (meditation). Dheeyo Yo Nah Prachodayaath is the prayer to the Lord. The mantra is thus a prayer to God to confer powers and strength to our intellect.
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| Chant the Gaayathri Manthra whenever you can |
It may not be possible for you to chant Gaayathri three times a day – in the morning, in the noon and in the evening. Therefore, chant Gaayathri whenever you can, anytime in the day. As you get up late at 8 am, you have to go to school, you have no time and so you may think how you can chant the manthra. This is sheer laziness. After you get up in the morning, do you not brush your teeth, do you not go to the bathroom, do you not take your bath? You must consider chanting of this manthra also as one of your daily duties. When you take your bath, chant the manthra, it will be equivalent to performing Abhishekam (sacred bath)to Gaayathri. While taking your food, before placing the first morsel of food into your mouth, chant the manthra, it will be equivalent to offering Naivedya (sacred offering) to God.
A Short Quiz:
There are four Discourse excerpts presented in this posting. These have been selected from the Discourses given by Bhagawan Baba in the years 1996, 2002 and 2007.
Each audio clip has a name that adopts the following code: Serial number, Title appropriate to the key content, Duration of the clip, Year-Month-Date of the Clip. Below the title is the translation in English of the select excerpt of the Discourse, followed by the audio player. The post ends with a short quiz that would help you evaluate your assimilation of Bhagawan’s Message.
2. Smile of God-Hasan and Prahasan-1.17-2002 May 23
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| Manda Smita Vadanam |
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| Sweet and Soft Smile |
Soon there will be a time when all will consider each other as brothers. Brother, brother, brother. Sister, sister, sister. Generally we greet each other with a hello. But inside there is only hollow (i.e. no feelings at all). All of you should be smiling always. You should not laugh loudly – Ha ha ha ha. The smile should be sweet and soft. That is the true smile. If you laugh loudly, it is only artificial and it creates turbulence.
8. How should a good smile be?
1A. Slip of leg can be retraced but not slip of tongue-1.41-1996 July 12
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| Truth is the Life of our Word |
Students! The value that the ‘Word’ has, even a note (currency note) does not have. There are two types of notes. One is a currency note and the other is a promissory note. If these notes do not possess the characteristics that they ought to, they would be of no use. Truth is the life for the Word, the army is the life for a fort. The life for a note is the signature on it. If we forget this essence of the spoken Word, it would amount to forgetting humanity itself.
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| Always Speak the Truth |
Satyam Bruyaat – Speak the Truth. This is the Moral value. Priyam Bruyaat – speak in a pleasing way. This is the Dharmic value (Ethical value). Na Bruyaat Satyam Apriyam – never speak the truth in an unpalatable way. This is the Spiritual value. Therefore, for the moral, ethical and spiritual value, Truth is of prime importance. From the moral standpoint, we must always speak the Truth. How should this truth be spoken? It should be spoken in a pleasing manner. Once we adhere to speaking the truth in a pleasing way, we would never utter a lie. Once we understand this Truth, we would be able to understand everything in life.
Personal Reflections
Most of what Bhagawan says here is straight forward. However, one aspect may seem apparently contradictory. In audio clip 3A, Bhagawan says that we must speak the truth as it is without being influenced by the likes and dislikes of the audience. However, in audio clip 3b and 4, Bhagawan states that we must never speak the truth that is bitter. So, should one speak the truth as it is or avoid speaking truth that is bitter? As I understand what Bhagawan means is that when the truth would not cause pain or trauma to anyone, it must be spoken as it is, without any distortion. However, when the truth is likely to cause pain to somebody, it is better to avoid speaking the same.
For example, if we hear one of our associates, say Mr. X criticizing Mr. Y and speaking very badly about him, we need not take pleasure in sharing this truth with Mr. Y and causing pain to him, unless there is a specific need to do so. Another example could be when we hear about the death of say, the mother of one of our close friends, how would we break the news to him? Would we go to him straight and yell out the truth that his mother is no more? Or would we break the news in a delicate manner?
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