Detachment

Aug

2020

Krishna Janmashtami

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.

1B. Krishna Thatwa-1996 Sept 4

The Krishna Avatar was intended to teach a perennial message to the world. He sought nothing for Himself. He kept nothing for Himself. He gave away everything to the people. He slayed His maternal uncle Kamsa and installed Ugrasena, Kamsa’s father, on the throne. He did not covet the Kingdom. He befriended the Pandavas, defeated the Kauravas and crowned Dharmaja as the emperor. He did not make Himself the king. He was a king without a crown. He was the king of kings. He had no kingdom of His own. Infact, every human heart is His kingdom. This is the profound truth proclaimed by the Krishna Thatwa (Krishna principle).

2A. Lord’s Master Plan-1995 May 21

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.”

2B. Krishna’s Birthday as per English Calender-2001 Aug 11

When was Krishna actually born? He was born 3228 years before Christ era in the month of Suguna on the 20th of July at 3 a.m. This is 2001 A.D. Before Christ it was 3228 years ago. As of today, He will be 5229 years old. He was born on the auspicious day of Sravana-Bahula-Ashtami. He was born in the Rohini Nakshatra (star). Since Krishna was born on the Ashtami day in the Rohini star, the world witnessed numerous miraculous events.

2C. Significance of Birth Timing-1990 Aug 14

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.

He was born on Ashtami day. People associate Ashtami with troubles and losses. But when do troubles and losses arise in the world? Only when Righteousness (Dharma) is forgotten. Thus, to remove the troubles and losses of mankind; to dispel the darkness; to drive away ignorance; and to teach mankind Divine knowledge, Lord Krishna incarnated through Sravanam.

(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.)

2D. True Birthday and Birthplace of Krishna-2003 Aug 19

Only when every man’s heart becomes cool, pure, peaceful, that is the true birthday of Krishna. There is no need to worry about the Thithis of Ashtami or Navami. Every man’s Hridaya (heart) is the birthplace of Krishna. The Hridaya must be peaceful, pure like the Himachala (the Himalayan mountains). It must be pure and cool. God manifests and installs Himself only in those hearts.

3A. Birth Story of Krishna-1995 May 21

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.

3B. Garga Names the Baby as Krishna-2001 Aug 11

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.

4. Meaning of the Name Krishna-1990 Aug 14

4A. Krishyathi Iti Krishnah

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.

4B. Karshathi Iti Krishnah

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.

4C. Kushyathi Iti Krishnah

A third meaning of the word Krishna is “Kushyathi iti Krishnah” (one who is always joyful). Kush means joy. Krishna was always in a state of joy.

5. Prema Thatwa – Message of Life of Krishna-1989 Aug 24

The supreme message of the life of Krishna is Prema Thatwa (Love Principle) alone. Devoid of love, one cannot understand Krishna Thatwa. This Prema Thatwa will confer everything to the world. Krishna is the embodiment of Love. This love can be understood only through love. Divine love is strong, precious, splendorous and unbreakable like a diamond. If you want to secure such Divine love, your love (for God) must be equally strong. You can cut a diamond only with another diamond. If there is any defect in your love, it should be removed only through love. Love begets love. It is impossible to attain love through hatred. Hatred only breeds even more hatred. Jealousy begets jealousy. Anger breeds further anger. Through love alone can love be developed. Therefore, if you want to foster love, you have to get rid of hatred, jealousy and anger. Is there a need to use a torchlight, or a lantern, or a petromax light to see the naturally illuminating moon? No. There is no need for any of these accessories. The Moon can be seen by its own light. Similarly, to attain Krishna, the very embodiment of love, love is the only way.

6. The Three Vows that Krishna Took

6A. Paritranaya Sadhunam-28 April 1999

Paritranaaya Sadhunaam

Vinaashaayacha Dushkrutaam

Dharma-Samsthaapanaarthaaya

Sambhavaami Yuge Yuge

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.

6B. Yogakshemam Vahaamyham-1998 April 19

Ananyaschinthayantho Maam

Ye Janah Paryupaasathe

Theshaam Nithyaabhiyukthaanaam

Yogakshemam Vahaamyaham

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.

6C. Sarva Dharmaan Parithyajya-1991 July 26

Sarva Dharmaan Parityajya

Maam Ekam Saranam Vraja

Aham Tvaam Sarva-Paapebhyo

Mokshayishyaami Maa Shucha

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.

7. Lesson for Devotees-1997 Aug 25

There are many things in this world. There is intelligence and education, but can one become an expert instantly? There is a need for a teacher. Likewise, God descends in human form to guide mankind on the path of God realisation. We need to know this truth. Why do Avatars come? Avatar does not come without a purpose. Avatars come to uplift the creation (Prakriti).

Having been born as a human, man must not forget the importance of human birth. Human birth is rare and it must be utilised for the right purpose. God instructs the right path to redeem human birth. Festivals like Raama Navami and Krishna Janmashtami are designed to remind people about the purpose of human life. Observe how the cows behave. When they notice a green pasture, they hurriedly eat as much as they can. Once they return to their resting place, they leisurely chew the cud and digest it. Similarly, absorb the sacred teachings as much as you can during your stay here. Recollect and ruminate over them when you go back home. You are listening to what is being told here. Do not forget them. Once you return home, ruminate over what has been told here and put it into practice. Practise is important. Mere hearing is not enough. Every human is Divine, whatever is done that is God’s work. Always contemplate on God and sanctify the time

Quiz

1. What are the two essential factors for the incarnation of God?

2. What does Krishna Thatwa (Krishna principle) proclaim?

3. When is Krishna’s birthday as per English calendar and Indian calendar?

4. Generally, people associate Ashtami with troubles and losses. But what is the actual reason given by Bhagawan, for the troubles and losses in life?

5. Krishna was born in the Krishnapaksha, the dark fortnight of the month. In this context, what does Krishna’s advent signify?

6. Which is the true birthplace of Krishna and When does the true birth of Krishna happen?

7. What are the three colours in which the incarnations generally occur? Was Krishna’s colour one among them? What was the colour of Krishna?

8. The name Krishna signifies three different aspects of the Lord. What are they?

9. What is the supreme message of Krishna’s life? What is the only way to attain Krishna?

10. Recollect the three vows that Krishna took.

11. What lessons must devotees take home, regarding the teachings, from the behaviour of cows?

Apr

2013

Six Qualities Dear to the Lord

Many times in the journey as a spiritual seeker, a doubt arises as to whether we are making any progress on our spiritual path at all. As it is commonly said, only that which can be measured can be managed. In that case, are there any metrics for our spiritual growth? More often than not, we are told that spiritual progress is only a matter of faith and cannot be measured or comprehended. In a sense this may be true, because if there were metrics, the seeker’s focus would have been more on the metrics than on the journey itself, thus losing sight of the real goal. However, having said that, the Lord in all His compassion has indeed given us some parameters on the basis of which we can take a test as to how dear we are to the Lord.

In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna, in the 12^th chapter on Bhakti Yoga that consists of 20 verses, dedicates 7 verses – from the 13^th to the 20^thverse, to define the parameters that indicate how dear a devotee is to the Lord. Lord Krishna clearly lists down certain qualities, stating that if the devotee has these equalities, she/he would be most dear to the Lord. Therefore, we can always run the acid test to measure ourselves on these qualities and gauge how close we are to the Lord. Among these 7 verses, the middle one, the 16^th verse to be precise is perhaps the most important. That is why Bhagawan has stressed on the six qualities in this verse in many of His Discourses. These six qualities, Bhagawan says, are very essential for every devotee, who wishes to be dear to the Lord. These six qualities are Anapeksha (desireless), Suchi (purity), Daksha (Determination), Udaasina (unmindful, unattached), Gathavyathah (free from worry and distress, living in the present) and Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi (renunciation, giving up of ego).

The audio clips in this posting have been taken from three Discourses. Bhagawan discusses the same six qualities in the three Discourses. However, in each Discourse, Bhagawan mentions some specific details that are unique to that Discourse. Therefore, for the sake of completion, in spite of some repetition, excerpts from all three Discourses and in some cases two Discourses, is included for each of the six qualities, making a total of twenty one audio clips. These twenty one audio clips in this posting have been taken from the Discourses delivered by Bhagawan in the years 1993, 1996 and 2000.

In Clip-1-A, Clip-1-B, Clip-1-C and Clip-1-D Bhagawan explains the meaning of Anapekshaand the method to develop this desireless state. Clip-2-A, Clip-2-B, Clip-2-C defines Suchi and the method to acquire the same. Clip-2-A1 focuses on purification of speech. Clip-2-A2 stresses on purification of the mind, while Clip-2-A3 explains about the purification of the body. Clip-3-A, Clip-3-B and Clip-3-C is about the quality of Dakshaor determination. Clip-4-A and Clip-4-B describes the quality of Udaasina or detachment. In Clip-5-A and Clip-5-B Bhagawan explains the importance of the quality of Gathavyathah. Clip-6-A and Clip-6-B elaborates on the sixth and the final quality of renunciation – Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi. Finally in Clip-7 Bhagawan sums up the six qualities, reminding us again that only a devotee who follows these six qualities is truly dear to the Lord.

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.

Note: Those receiving this blog by email may see words bunched together due to a technical glitch. That is beyond my control. Please click on link at the top of the email to read the blog directly. Sorry about this. If anyone has a solution to this please help me out.

Six qualities most dear to the Lord-0.31-1993 August 30

Bhagavad Gita 12.16
Image Source

Anapeksha Suchir Daksha Udaasino Gathavyathah.

Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi Yo Madbhaktah Sa Me Priyah

(Bhagavad Gita 12.16)

The devotee with the six qualities of Anapeksha (desireless), Suchi (purity), Daksha (Determination), Udaasino (unmindful, unattached), Gathavyathah (free from worry and distress, living in the present), Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi (renunciation, giving up of ego), is very dear to me.

01-A-First quality-Anapeksha-Desirelessness-4.11-1993 August 30

Desireless State

Anapeksha Suchirdaksha…

Anapeksha means to remain without any expectations. In this wide world, can one stay without any expectations? That is impossible. Some may like some things, others may consider certain things as noble or sacred. Things that we like, give us sensual pleasure, joy and worldly happiness. Things that are noble, confer happiness that transcends the senses and is beyond the world and the body. All expectations and desires are subsumed in these two types of expectations.

Is it possible for one to be beyond expectations in this world? Yes, it is possible. In the Bhagavad Gita, it is said (by Lord Krishna), “All righteous actions are My very own Form”. Individuals who recognize this truth have the scope for acquiring the state of Anapeksha. When all the actions performed by man are done as an offering to the Lord, they assume the form of actions of Anapeksha. The Divine energy, being in me, making me walk, making me speak, making me see and making me hear is verily Him. Therefore, it is He (God) who performs all the actions, makes it happen through us, gives us joy and experiences the joy Himself. Therefore, as it is He (God) who is the indweller of every being and is the one getting everything done through her/him; having the feeling that all the actions are being offered to God is the true meaning of Anapeksha. When aspirants perform all the actions that they do, as an offering to the Lord, it assumes the form of actions of Anapeksha.

01-B-First quality-Anapeksha-Desirelessness-3.10-1996 October 03

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.

Therefore, it is impossible to live without any expectations (desires). Desires must be there; but for what? For pleasing the Lord.

01-C-First quality-Anapeksha-Desirelessness-2.48-2000 May 24

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.

01-D-How to develop Anapeksha-Desirelessness-1.38-2000 May 24

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.

02-A-Second quality-Suchi-Cleanliness-1.41-1993 August 30

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.

02-A1-Suchi-Purification of Speech-2.34-1993 August 30

Purity of speech

The important aspect is speech (word). The word should be pure. What should be done to make the word pure?

Anudvegakaram Vaakyam

Satyam Preeti Hitam Cha Yat

(Do not speak words that cause distress. Speak the truth in a pleasant and comforting way – Bhagavad Gita – 17.15)

Whatever words we speak must be such that it does not cause any agitation, it must be true and pleasant. There are four reasons for the speech to get polluted. a) The word should not be blemished by untruth, b) The speech should not be blemished by excessive talk, c) The word should not be of the complaining or accusing type, d) Pure speech should not criticize others. However, because of the effect of the Kali age, the tongue experiences all these four types of defects. It constantly speaks the untruth. It always criticizes others. It keeps complaining about others and talks excessively. When we get rid of these four defects, we will be able to purify our speech. To start with, we must purify our speech.

02-A2-Suchi-Purification of Mind-1.20-1993 August 30

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.

02-A3-Suchi-Purification of Body-1.44-1993 August 30

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.

02-B-Second quality-Suchi-Cleanliness-1.16-1996 October 03

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.

02-C-Second quality-Suchi-Cleanliness-3.17-2000 May 24

Brass vessel must have a tin coating
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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.

Let us say, we prepare pulusu (soup) in a brass vessel. However, within a few seconds the soup gets poisoned. Why does it get poisoned? Because the brass vessel is not coated with tin inside (Tinning – Kallai– prevents the uptake of copper from brass by the soup; thus preventing it from becoming toxic). In the absence of the coating of tin, the soup gets poisoned. Our human body too, is like a brass vessel. This brass vessel has to be coated with the tin of love. When the kallai (coating) of love is applied, whatever item we may cook inside this vessel, will not get spoilt.

Therefore, there must be purity both inside and outside. What is the outer cleanliness? When we perform actions for the welfare of others, with the feeling of worship, i.e. with the feeling that the action is being done to please God, to serve others; then performance of such selfless actions leads to outer cleanliness too. Performing actions with selfishness cannot lead to purity or outer cleanliness.

03-A-Third quality-Daksha-Determination-1.23-1993 August 30

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).

03-B-Third quality-Daksha-Determination-1.20-1996 October 03

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.

03-C-Third quality-Daksha-Determination-2.26-2000 May 24

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:

Pattina Pattedo Pattane Pattitiri

Pattunetidudaaka Attaneundu

Korinadediyo Koranekoritivi

Korikechellududaaka Povakundu

Adiginadediyo Adagane Adigitivi

Adiginavidudaaka Viduvakundu

Talachinadediyo Talachane Talachitivi

Talaputeerududaaka Povakundu

Poru Padaleka Taanaina Brovavalayu

Vadaluteriyeka Neevaina Adagavaleyu

Antiye Kaani, Tirigipovuta Bhaktulu Deeksha Kaadu

(Anyhow you have caught on to something; having caught on to it, keep holding on. Until you have achieved it, remain that way. This is determination.

Anyhow you have desired for something; having desired thus, until the desire is fulfilled, do not leave. This is determination.

Anyhow you have asked for something; having asked for it, until it is given, do not give up. This is determination.

Anyhow you have thought of something; having thought about it, until it is realized, do not go away. This is determination.

What should happen at the end?

Not able to bear any more, He should come to your rescue. Or you will have to keep asking until you lose your consciousness.

That is all. A devotee turning back (without achieving his wish) does not amount to determination at all)

Therefore, what is determination? I should seek God, I should see God, I should receive His Grace; we must have such long standing determination. Devotees, who have such determination, are loved by God immensely.

04-A-Fourth quality-Udaasina-Detachment-1.53-1993 August 30

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).

04-B-Fourth quality-Udaasina-Detachment-2.17-2000 May 24

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.

05-A-Fifth quality-Gathavyathah-Past is past-Live in present-4.06-1993 August 30

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.

This (absence of Gathavyathah) is the reason for all the problems of human society. Brooding over the past and worrying about the future, man is not able to even perform what he needs to, in the present. As you forget the present, miseries will follow you. Be perfect in the present and you will get a perfect future. As the seeds you sow today, similar will be the fruits that you will reap in the future. The belching that you get in the evening will be based on the food that you eat now (in the morning). Therefore, you must consider the present as very important. It is very good for the spiritual seeker to keep the present as his goal and forget both the past and the future.

This is the fifth quality of Gathavyathah. Because of constant worrying, the Rajo Guna (hyperactive, passion) increases in man. Rajo Gunais like a demon. It will make you do anything in a moment. It is very difficult to control the Rajo Guna. It is thoughts that encourage the Rajasquality. Therefore, we must not encourage the Rajo Guna.

05-B-Fifth quality-Gathavyathah-Past is past-Live in present-3.44-2000 May 24

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?

Past; what has happened has already happened. It has got drowned in the womb of time. We cannot bring back again that which has already been drowned. Therefore, the past will never come again. The future does not belong to you. Then why should you worry about it? But, thinking is very important for mankind. Man cannot live even for a second without thinking. Thoughts keep on coming. But do not let these thoughts be based on the past or the future. Let the thoughts be centered on the present. Past and future both are merged in the present. From the tree of the past, has come the seed of the present. From the seed of the present, comes the tree of the future. Tomorrow, future is the tree, past is the tree. Present is the seed. Therefore, the present is the basis for both the past and the future. Hence, take the present as the basis. You must act and speak according to the time on hand; you must avoid hurting others and also hurting yourself. The man who lives like this is a great one. Keep in view the present and do not worry about the future. You will surely get a future that is befitting the present. You will have no failure.

06-A-Sixth quality – Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi – Renunciation-1.24-1993 August 30

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?

Anapeksha Suchir Daksha Udaasino Gathavyathah.

Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi Yo Madbhaktah Sa Me Priyah

(Bhagavad Gita 12.16)

The one with these six qualities of Anapeksha (desireless), Suchi (purity), Daksha (Determination), Udaasino (unmindful, unattached), Gathavyathah (free from worry and distress, living in the present), Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi (renunciation, giving up of ego), is very dear to me.

06-B-Sixth quality – Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi – Renunciation-3.19-2000 May 24

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.

Today, for everything, we are after exhibitionism. If we spend Rs.5 (on some activity), we spend Rs.500 to get our names printed in the newspaper. Money spent on the task is Rs.5, but Rs.500 is spent for printing your name. Is this not exhibitionism? A man of true service will never run after publicity. Publicity is essential only for those who do everything for the sake of name and fame. You should not desire for name at all. Why should you use all these names given to you? Thus, do not give any scope for ostentation or show. So long as there is Aadambaram (show), you will never get Atamaanandam (bliss of the Self). When you have not experienced Atamaanandam itself, how can you earn God’s Grace?

07-Follow these six qualities to be dear to the Lord-0.41-2000 May 24

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.

Anapeksha Suchir Daksha Udaasino Gathavyathah.

Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi

Only then (when you follow these qualities), God will consider you as belonging to Him. We have to understand this principle and conduct ourselves accordingly.

A Short Quiz

01-List the six qualities of a devotee most dear to the Lord, and give the English translation of the Sanskrit terms.

02-What is the true meaning of Anapeksha? Is it possible for an individual to remain without any expectations in this world?

03-Among desires, what type of desires are the noblest and greatest?

04-What is the meaning of Suchi?

05-What is more important – inner cleanliness and purity or outer cleanliness and purity?

06-What are the three aspects of man that need to be purified as part of Suchi?

07-How can we purify our speech?

08-What are the four sins committed by the tongue?

09-How can we purify our mind?

10-How can we purify our body?

11-What is the meaning of the Sanskrit phrase – Chittasya Shuddhaye Karmaha?

12-What message does Bhagawan convey through the analogy of the brass vessel and the tin coating?

13-What is the meaning of Daksha?

14-Give the English translation of the Telugu verse narrated by Bhagawan; that explains the true quality of a devotee with determination.

15-What is the meaning of Udaasina?

16-What is the meaning of Gathavyathah?

17-How does Bhagawan compare the past, present and the future to a tree and its seeds?

18-What is the interplay between Gathavyathah and the Gunas?

19-What is the meaning of Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi?

20-What is the relationship between Aadambaram(show), and Atamaanandam (Bliss of the Self)?

Detachment

Krishna Janmashtami

Six Qualities Dear to the Lord

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