God

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?

Dec

2014

MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK-7

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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 week for a special message from Bhagawan Baba that could serve as our driving force throughout the week. Wish you a happy week!!

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.

27 April to 03 May 2015

How can we destroy our bad qualities?

How can we destroy our bad qualities-2.29-1996 June 18

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,

Shreyo Hi Jnaanam Abhyaasaat

Jnaanaad Dhyaanam Vishishyate

Dhyaanaat Karma-Phala-Tyaaga

Tyaaga Shantir Anantaram

(If you cannot take to practice, then engage yourself in the cultivation of knowledge. Better than knowledge, however, is meditation, and better than meditation is renunciation of the fruits of action; for by such renunciation one can attain peace of mind)

Bhagavad Gita 12.12

Shreyo Hi Jnaanam Abhyaasaat…you need to learn everything by practice. Everything comes by practice alone. Walking, talking, reading, writing, eating: everything comes by practice. We need to undertake this practice in our daily life. But we must practice truthfully in the right way. We must not practice bad things. To do bad things we do not need any practice. A boulder on the top of the hill, if kicked by the leg, will come rolling down. But to take a boulder from the bottom of the hill and place it on the top is very difficult. You do not need to practice for nurturing bad qualities. You all know that even a bus or a lorry with full load makes so much noise while climbing up the mountain. To move upward takes lot of pain. But to slide downward is very easy. We must not make an effort for doing easy things. Even if it is difficult, look up. Low aim is crime. Do not commit a crime. Look up. We must develop a high aim or lofty vision. That is true Sadhana (spiritual exercise).

18 June 1996

20 April to 26 April 2015

How do we illumine our spiritual heart?

How do we illumine our spiritual heart-4.30-1996 June 18

Here is some wood. What will happen if this wood is put into the fire? The wood will disappear. It will get transformed into coal. The wood is gone and we now have coal. When we touch the wood it does not make us dirty but when we touch the coal it makes us dirty. How can we make this coal look white again? Ignorant ones will wash the coal with soap to make it white. If the soap is used to wash the coal, the soap too will become black but the coal will never become white. Even if take the coal and wash it with milk, the milk will turn black but the coal will never turn white in colour.

What do we need to learn from this? First of all how did this coal get formed? Why did it get formed into coal? It got transformed into coal because of the contact with fire. So put the coal into the fire again. It will continue to burn in the fire until it eventually gets transformed into white colour. When the wood is half burned it becomes coal. When it is fully burned it becomes light. Therefore, in a similar manner part time devotion will make you like coal. Full time devotion will make you light. Put it into the fire of love. It will continue to burn and will become ash that will fly away when blown.

See, here is the wood. When dropped, it falls down. But after burning for long it becomes ash; the ash will just fly upwards when blown. The lighter it is, the more the height it will reach. The more the weight, the lower it will descend. Therefore, if you wish to reach great heights then you need to reduce the weight: less luggage more comfort. As the weight is reduced further and further, it will become lighter. Hence, we need to progressively cut down our desires. It is not enough to just reduce our desires. We need to reduce the bad qualities of Raaga(attachment), Dwesha (hatred) and Asuya (jealousy). Why? Because there are three powerful enemies: Kaama(desire), Krodha (anger) and Lobha (greed). Desire destroys devotion. Anger destroys wisdom. Greed destroys our actions. Thus, these three destroy the triad of action (Karma), devotion (Bhakti) and wisdom (Jnaana). When we get angry we lose all our wisdom. We lose our discrimination power. It will bring about enmity and we would lose the discretion power to decide what to talk: when and where. Therefore, we should not get angry. We should never become greedy.

The disease of cancer may be cured but these three enemies (desire, anger and greed) can never be cured. How do we then get rid of them? When they are put into the fire of Divine Love they will turn into ash. Even very hard metal when put into fire burns and turns into liquid metal. When iron itself gets transformed into liquid will not these bad qualities get destroyed? Thus we must first destroy our bad qualities.

18 June 1996

13 April to 19 April 2015

What are the four types of lights that illuminate our lives?

What are the four types of lights that illuminate our lives-4.24-1996 June 18

Pradoshe Deepakaschandraha

Prabhaate Deepako Ravihi

Trailokye Deepako Dharmaha

Suputra Kuladeepaka

The moon gives us light at night. The sun gives us light and bright sunshine during the day. Dharma illumines and gives light to all the three worlds (gross, subtle and causal). A good son (daughter) gives light to the entire family.

The bulb at home sheds its light only within the confines of the room. The moon at night sheds light everywhere but it is dim light. However, the sun which shines during the day sheds its bright light all over. The light at home symbolizes “Svaartham” (selfishness). The moon which sheds its light everywhere symbolizes “Paraartham” (selflessness). And the sun symbolizes “Yadaartham” (Truth). Truth is God. Therefore, the sun that sheds its bright light everywhere is the True God. That is why since ancient times the Bharatiyas worshipped the Sun. The performed Surya Namaskaaraas (obeisance to the Sun deity). They verily regarded the sun as their God. Life is sustained on this earth because of the sun.

Therefore, what we need today is the light of the moon during the night, light of the sun during the day, light of Dharma in the three worlds and light of a good son (daughter) in the family. One cannot become a good son (daughter) merely by getting educated or by acquiring titles. One needs to have good behaviour, good manners, good discipline and good devotion. This is most important. If there is devotion all good things will come to you.

18 June 1996

06 April to 12 April 2015

Who is an ideal son or daughter?

Who is an ideal son or daughter-5.46-1996 June 18

Pradoshe Deepakaschandraha

Prabhaate Deepako Ravihi

Trailokye Deepako Dharmaha

Suputra Kuladeepaka

Who is a good son (daughter)? Good son (daughter) means God son (daughter). Good is spelt as G O O D. This entire world is illusory and is equal to a zero, whereas Brahma is the Truth. Remove the ‘zero’ representing the illusory world from GOOD (i.e. remove one letter ‘O’) and we are left with GOD. When one zero (letter ‘O’) is removed from GOOD, it becomes GOD. Therefore God son (daughter) is Good son (daughter). That is, a good son (daughter) must always have Godly (Divine) feelings, must engage in Divine actions, must nurture Divine thoughts and exhibit Divine behavior. ‘Su’ means ‘good’. A good son (daughter) must fulfill the commands of the parents, receive the love of the parents, make them happy in return, express gratitude to them for having nurtured and brought them up all these years and satisfy them. Not only that, he / she must also get a good name in the society.

When does one become a good son (daughter)?

Telugu verse:

Just like a single Jasmine creeper in a thick forest spreads its fragrance all over the forest;

Similarly, even if there is one good son (daughter) in the family, the whole family / clan will earn repute and the son (daughter) will also get a good name.

These days as soon as a child is born we distribute sweets and celebrate. When asked why one is distributing sweets, he / she answers, “O! I have begotten a child”. But only time will show what type of child it is. Just by begetting a son (daughter) we must not declare that we have got a son (daughter). The day when that son (daughter) gets a good name in the society, that day you can celebrate the birth of your child.

A father will not experience true happiness when a son (daughter) is born to him, but when the son (daughter) receives praise from the society, he will then experience true delight! When ten people praise the son (daughter) exclaiming, “O! (s)he is so good, (s)he is so good, (s)he is so good”, it is then that the father will be happy. God also will be happy then. You should get a good name from everybody. Such a good son (daughter) illumines the whole family with his / her light.

18 June 1996

30 March to 05 April 2015

What does Bhagawan expect from His Students?

What does Bhagawan expect from His Students-9.48-1996 March 31

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.

If you cannot express gratitude, it is better to shut up and be quiet. But, never become ungrateful. Becoming ungrateful is a great sin. Students should correctly recognize such principles. It is not a great thing to merely study and pass. Swami has no happiness in that. You must pass, you must get a first class, you must get an “O” grade; but above all you must put all these into practice. That is what I desire. I do not desire anything else from you. When anybody sees you all, they must observe that these are the ideal students who have studied from that particular Institute.

Once you go out, if you still roam around like a dog, people will remark, “O, he has studied from Sathya Sai Institute. But it looks like he has not given up his past tendencies. He has not left his past habits.” You must not earn such a bad name. Just wearing a white shirt when you go out is of no use. You must carry along with you a white (pure) heart. This is what you have to achieve.

You must give happiness to the parents who have given birth to you. You must also pass on happiness to your relatives and friends. You must bring a good name to the Institute. Day and night, I am giving three fourth of My time to you, which I am not giving even to My devotees. Having got such an opportunity, you must not turn out to be ungrateful. Ingratitude to God is a very big act of ungratefulness.

You live outside. You earn a salary. You acquire great wealth. What is the use? It is like decorating a dead body. Is wealth of prime importance? No, it is quality or virtue that is important. Students going out from Sathya Sai University are earning lot of money. This is a matter of great happiness. Make your parents happy. But do not get a bad name.

If you satisfy God’s mind, your whole life will be satisfied…Telugu verse…If Swami says you are a good person, all the people gathered here will say you are a good person. If Swami says, Chhee(an expression indicating disgust), he is not a good person, everybody will also say Chhee, he is not good. Eventually, even your parents will say Chhee…

Therefore, first of all control your tongue. So long as you are here you speak all good things. But once you go out, you live a contradictory life. Even a dog will not have such a bad mind. When somebody gives food to a dog, the next day when it sees the master, it will wag its tail and approach him with a sense of friendship. If after living so many days here, studying so many days here and having had so many experiences here; this friendship is not there among you all and there is no faith, then how can you be called human beings? You are then human beings only by form and not by practice. My aim and My desire is that you must become human beings by practice.

My desire is that you must become ideal students. You should not speak just as you like. Many a time in life, we get into problems because of our (inappropriate) words. Today the times are very dangerous. Every word has to be thought over and then spoken. Every word should be spoken in an ideal manner. We should not feel jealous about anybody. We should not criticize anybody. You may correct your own faults if you wish to. Do not look at the faults of others. Take good from outside and throw out the bad from within you. These two are My wishes. You need to become ideal students.

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.

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.

If your father is doing some work at home, ask him, “Father, do you want me to help you? I will surely do?” This should be the way and not simply sitting on a chair and whiling away all the time eating and sitting, eating and sitting.

Enter the society and undertake service. Many of you, who know Bhajans, go and sing Bhajans. Or else, go and partake in social work. Go to the hospitals and help the patients. If you cannot do any other help, look out for poor patients and buy the medicines prescribed for them. If they are feeling cold, get them some clothes. But never give them money. If you give them money, India will become a nation full of beggars. Give them food, give them clothes, give them necessary medicines, and help them. This is the type of service you must participate in. If you undertake service in this manner, you will receive great repute. You will be fulfilling the human birth that you have taken.

We have desires to become great. We have all sorts of desires. We wish to become another Birla, Kirloskar or Tata (great and reputed businessmen). You can become Tata (also means grandfather in most South Indian languages) by growing a beard (in lighter vein). Is that what you want? Reputation that comes from acquiring wealth is ephemeral (momentary). Do not sell yourself for money. You may earn wealth but use it in a noble manner, a good manner in a meaningful way. Sinful wealth will never stay with us. Either thieves will steal it or income tax officers will come and confiscate it. Therefore, rather than misusing your wealth, use it in a right manner.

There are four custodians of wealth. One is fire, second is thief, third is friend and the fourth is the Government. They will take away your money. Before the money is lost, put it to good use. Our students should not desire or run after money in any matter, be it job or marriage. Work, work, work, work; aspire to work.

As soon as you go home (from college after your studies), your parents will tell you, “Son, get married. We will get 10 lakhs of rupees”. Chhee (a remark indicating disgust)…can parents sell their son for the sake of money? The son has no shame nor do the parents have shame. Can the son be sold to a girl for the sake of 10 lakhs? Not just 10 lakhs, even if you get 10 crores of rupees, never ever allow yourself to be sold. You must stand on your own legs with your own strength. You must be self-reliant. But, without being so, if you follow whatever people tell you, then you are a slave.

We must never be a slave. We must become the Master. When you become your own Master, then you can become a Master for all, setting an ideal for them.

31 March 1996

23 March to 29 March 2015

What is the consequence of being ungrateful to those who have helped us?

What is the consequence of being ungrateful to those who have helped us-3.08-1996 March 31

There is no atonement for the sin of ingratitude

If you cannot express gratitude, it is better to shut up and be quiet. But, never become ungrateful. Becoming ungrateful is a great sin. Students, you are all good. But, it is very essential to recognize this matter.

Many people perform Surya Namaskaar* (salutation to the Sun God). While prostrating they chant “Himaghnaghnaaya Namah” (these expressions appear in the devotional hymn titled Adityahridayam, details of which are given at the end of this Discourse extract). The meaning of this phrase is that as soon as the sun rises the snow melts away. Therefore, we prostrate stating, “O Sun, as soon as you rise, you make the snow melt and flow as water; salutations to you.” Next, they say “Tamaghnaghnaaya Namah”. “Tamas” means “darkness”. “O Sun, as you rise, you put an end to the darkness; salutations to you.” As soon as the sun enters, the darkness disappears. These two are good expressions. They are fundamental Truths.

But, there is a third expression, an extremely important one. “Krutaghnaghnaaya Namah”. What does this chant mean? “Krutaghnudu” means the ungrateful one. “O Sun, you move away from the ones who forget the help done to them; salutations to you.” If the sun moves away from such people, what is the loss to them? How does the sun reflect in an individual?

Chandrama Manaso Jaataha Chaksho Suryo Ajaayata

The moon was born out of the mind and the sun out of the eyes of the Supreme Being

Purusha Suktam, Mantra 14

The light (radiance) in our eyes is indeed the sun. Therefore, if we become ungrateful, we will lose the vision of our eyes. The sun (light) will move away from our eyes. We will become blind. That is the meaning of “Krutaghnaghnaaya Namah”.

Students you know that even in the Vedas it is said, “Chandrama Manaso Jaataha”. The moon is equivalent to the mind of a human being. “Chaksho Suryo Ajaayata”. The sun is equivalent to the eyes of a human being. The radiance of the sun is there in our eyes. If this radiance leaves us, we will become blind. Therefore, the one who becomes ungrateful will lose his / her eyesight.

For our life, our eyes are indeed the Saastras (scriptures). Drushti is Srushti, Vision is creation. We are losing this creation. We are losing the scriptures. We are losing our very human life. For every act there is some fruit and some atonement. But there is no atonement for being ungrateful. Whatever Sadhana (spiritual exercise) one may do, it is of no use (to atone for ingratitude). Even if you lose your life, it would be of no use (to atone for ingratitude). Therefore, never become ungrateful. Students need to recognize these principles correctly.

31 March 1996

* Surya Namaskara also known in English as Sun Salutation is a common sequence of asanas. Its origins lie in India where its large Hindu population worships Surya, the Hindu solar deity. This sequence of movements and asanas can be practiced on varying levels of awareness, ranging from that of physical exercise in various styles, to a complete sadhanawhich incorporates asana, pranayama, mantra and chakra meditation.

Adityahridayam is a devotional hymn associated with Aditya or the Sun God (Surya) and was recited by the sage Agastya to Rama on the battlefield before fighting the demon king Ravana. This historic hymn starts at the beginning of the duel between Rama and Ravana. Agastya teaches Rama, who is fatigued after the long battle with various warriors of Lanka, the procedure of worshiping the Sun God for strength to defeat the enemy. These verses belong to Yuddha Kanda (Book 6) Canto 107, in the Ramayana as composed by Agastya and compiled by Valmiki.

Tamoghnaya Himaghnaya Shatrughnayamitatmane |

Kritaghnaghnaya Devaya Jyotisham Pataye Namaha || 20

Salutations to the dispeller of darkness, the destroyer of cold, fog and snow, the exterminator of foes; the one whose extent is immeasurable. Salutations also to the annihilator of the ungrateful and to the Lord of all the stellar bodies, who is the first amongst all the lights of the Universe.

16 March to 22 March 2015

Do we need to give up this world to earn the Grace of God?

Do we need to give up this world to earn the Grace of God-1.21-1996 March 31

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.

However, until we reach that state, we need to live in this world with integrity and morality. The aim should be that (earning God’s Grace), but action should be performed in the world. Experience Nature through the vision of spirituality: this is the profound message of Sai. You do not need to give up Nature (world). You do not need to resign from your job. You need not struggle to get a new or a different job. You do not need to beg for a job going from office to office like a dog. Do the job that you have in your hands. Look after your family well. Lead an ideal life. But always keep the right aim (to earn the Grace of the Lord). Students need to clearly recognize and practice this truth. This is real bliss or joy!

31 March 1996

09 March to 15 March 2015

What are three important things that we should never forget in our life?

What are three important things that we should never forget in our life-0.35-1996 March 31

Never forget God. Do not trust the world. Do not fear death. You need to understand these three things.

Do not forget God.

Do not trust the world.

Why? …because it changes from moment to moment. How can you trust it then?

Do not fear death.

You must have such courage.

If you learn these three things, the whole world will be in your hands (within your control). Swami too will be in your hands (in your control).

31 March 1996

02 March to 08 March 2015

How do we understand symbolism in the worship of God?

How do we understand symbolism in the worship of God-6.56-1995 May 20

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.

This is why the ancients considered Goddess Earth to be the true deity and started worshipping her. However, few scientists made fun of them. They thought, “What is this? They consider Mother Earth as God! After all what is there in this earth? There is just mud and stones”. They asked, “What is the inner significance in worshipping this mud and these stones?” They replied, “Sir, it is this very earth that gives us food to eat. It is this wind which gives us life. It is the sun that helps us to cultivate crops. Therefore, none can say that worship of Nature is erroneous. Worshipping the one who has helped us and the one who has put an end to our suffering is correct. It is the Truth and the right path”.

The five elements are helping us so much. If there are no Pancha Bhootas(five elements), then there is no Prapancha(creation). What is the loss in worshipping these five elements? Leave alone the five elements; there are some who worship mere stones. How can a stone be treated as God? O fool, everything is the form of God. Why should one not worship it? One may say, “The stone has no attributes and it has no life. Why worship something which is just fallen as a lump with no awareness?” You need to clearly recognize one aspect here. On the 15^th of August (Independence Day in India), we hoist the National Flag. We all salute the flag and respect it. Why do we respect the flag? It is after all a small piece of cloth woven with threads. It has no attributes nor has it any awareness. If there is breeze, it flies, else it remains still. How do you respect such a flag, which has no awareness? What qualities are present in the flag? (Truly speaking) You give a stamp to the flag as a symbol of the freedom that has been acquired through great struggle.

That is Divinity! It is all about symbolism, belief and faith. In every nation, people respect the National Flag. China and Russia too respect their National Flag. When we worship the flag that has no awareness, what is wrong in worshipping entities like a stone that has no awareness? Divine awareness is present everywhere. However, there are certain signs and symbols. When we enquire like this, the argument of the atheists does not hold good. Today, in this world, in our daily life, there is something that we experience everywhere.

Dhanamoolam Idam Jagath

Wealth has become the basis of the world today

We worship this wealth, Lakshmi Aradhana (worship of the Goddess of wealth). We worship Goddess Lakshmi by applying kumkum (vermilion), turmeric and lighting incense sticks. If we see a Rs.100 note, we touch it to our eyes and keep it in our pocket. What is this rupee note after all? It is made from bamboo and grass pulp. What attributes are there in this rupee note? What awareness does it have? Then why do you worship this note? The rupee note is worshipped by theists as well as atheists. Do atheists say that they do not want the Rs.100 note? They too want it. They all attach value to it because of the stamp on the note.

You have a father and a grandfather. After his demise, you would worship his photo and light incense sticks. What is there in this photo? Is your grandfather there in that photo? No, it is just a picture on a paper. True, it is just a paper, but it has the picture of your grandfather on it. Similarly, it may be a mere stone, but the deity meant for worship is present in it. The form based on one’s feelings is embedded in it. If we think in this manner, everything will appear as God’s Form to us. No one has the authority to criticize (this form of worship). If you do not like, you may abstain from it. But it is very wrong to harm the faith of others. You experience your faith. Leave the faith of others to them. Each one will have their own faith. Each one has to breathe for himself. If you were to ask someone else to breathe for you, would it be possible? This is impossible.

20 May 1995

23 February to 01 March 2015

When and how can we have the Vision of God?

When and how can we have the Vision of God-3.17-1995 May 20

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?

Yaa Chinta Bhuvi Putra Mitra Bharanam Vyaapaar Sambhaashane

Yaa Chinta Dhana Dhaanya Bhoga Yashashas Laabhe Sadaa Jaayate

Saa Chinta Bhuvi Nanda Nandana Pada Dvandvaaravinde Kshane

Saa Chinta Yama Raja Bhima Sada Dwaara Prayaane Prabho

(Correctness of the wordings of this sloka to be verified)

The time that you spend in worrying out of attachment for your children, friends and business; the time that you spend in thinking of wealth, comforts and reputation; of that, do you spend even one second concentrating on the feet of the Lord? Once you experience that contemplation, even the fearful doors of the Lord of death Yama, will be open for you. You struggle with worrying for the world, but you aspire for the vision of the Lord. This is impossible my son. Pine for that which you desire; only then the Lord will be available to you. You say one thing and you act in a different way. Under these situations you will never be able to recognize God.

20 May 1995

16 February to 22 February 2015

Can God be perceived through mere empirical investigations?

Can God be perceived through mere empirical investigations-8.07-1995 May 20

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?

Let us say an individual is seen by the eyes. His height is 5’ 6” as measured by him. His weight as observed in the weighing machine is 63 kgs. The weight in kgs is direct proof as it is seen in the weighing machine. His height too was measured using a tape and found to be 5’ 6”. He is seen with the eyes. He has a moderate complexion and a bald head. All these are direct proof or empirical evidence. Is this all true? Yes, it is true. But in what context is it true? It is true for all the external characteristics such as height, weight and colour. But there are so many qualities in the individual that cannot be seen by the eyes, cannot be grasped by the hand and cannot be measured. There is compassion in him. There is determination in him. There is sacrifice and forbearance in him. But all these qualities are not visible to the eyes. They cannot be measured by a tape or cannot be weighed by a weighing machine. Even if the individual were to be cut into pieces, these qualities would not be visible to the eyes. But can we say these qualities are not there in him? It is only with these qualities that the individual becomes functional and useful. Because of the non-apparent aspects only the apparent aspects become functional. That is why the non-apparent can be visualized through that which is apparent.

O fool; that which is not seen is considered as a dream and that which is seen is considered real. But that which is not seen is the one which is responsible for humans to experience all their Karma (destiny – consequences of actions). Therefore, it is foolishness to refuse to believe and deny that which cannot be seen or that which cannot be grasped by the hand. It is also foolishness to consider that what can be seen alone as real. A tree is full of branches and is visible to the eye. We say it is true (real). Scientists focus on the multiple branches, flowers and fruits on the tree. But a spiritual person focuses on the roots that cannot be seen by the eyes. If there are no roots, where can there be any branches? The one who sees the branches does not see the root and the one who sees the root does not see the branches. Which among these is more important, the branches or the roots? If the branches are cut and the roots remain, the tree can grow again. But if there are no roots, we cannot have any branches. Therefore, because of the roots that are not visible to the eyes, we are able to see the multiple branches of the tree.

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:

Sarvatah Paanipaadam

Tatsarvatoakshi Siromukham

Sarvatah Srutimalloke

Sarvamaavritya Tishthati

With hands, feet, eyes, ears, head and mouth pervading everything, He (Divine Being) permeates the entire universe !

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter-13, Verse-14

Whatever feelings the devotee entertains, God assumes a form accordingly. He is everywhere.

20 May 1995

09 February to 15 February 2015

What are the parallels we can draw between a football game and human life?

What are the parallels we can draw between a football game and human life-2.29-1998 April 18

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.

In the same way, this human life is like a football game. There are six players in each of the two teams: six wicked players on one side and six good players on another side. There is a constant conflict between the evil and the good. The war and the fighting continues always. Who are these six players? Kaama(Desire), Krodha (Anger), Lobha (Greed), Moha (Attachment), Mada(Pride) and Matsarya (Jealousy) are the six wicked players. Sathya(Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Shanti (Peace), Prema (Love), Ahimsa(Non-violence) and Prakruti Dharma (Law of Nature) are the six good players. Six on one side and another six on the other side keep kicking the ball. But there is a goal post for the game. The goal post is set between two poles. Only when the ball goes between these two poles it becomes a “goal”. If it does not go between the poles it becomes an “out”.

This is akin to Ihamanu Sukhimpa Hemataaraka Vidya, Paramunu Sukhimpa Brahma Vidya– i.e. secular education is necessary to keep us happy here in this world and spiritual education is necessary to keep us happy in the world thereafter (beyond death of the body). These two are the limits for our life and we need to move between them. When we hit the “goal” of our life between these two poles, we will be able to attain Divine victory. When our life is not led between the secular education and spiritual education it becomes an “out”. What happens then? It leads to Punarapi Jananam Punarapi Maranam, i.e., birth again and again, death again and again. But if life is led between the goal posts, then Punar Janma Na Vidyate, i.e. there will be no rebirth. No birth, no birth. Only when there is birth, there will be death. When there is no birth, where will death come from? This is called Moksha. It will never become a seed again. We should recognize this Truth.

18 April 1998

02 February to 08 February 2015

What is the true meaning of Paropakaar?

What is the true meaning of Paropakaar-1.37-1995 May 21

Kuru Punyam Ahoraatram

Perform meritorious deeds day and night

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”.

But this is not the true meaning.

“Para” + “Upa” + “Kaara” is “Paropakaara”.

“Para” means “Divinity”. “Upa” means “close to” or “in the proximity”. “Karaa” means “to go”. This means that going closer to Divinity is true Punya (merit). True merit consists in the devotee going closer to God. Kuru Punyam Ahoraatram – Such meritorious acts must be performed throughout the day and night.

21 May 1995

26 January to 01 February 2015

What are the specific roles played by Lord Rama and Lord Krishna as Avatars?

What are the specific roles played by Lord Rama and Lord Krishna as Avatars-6.19-1990 August 14

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.

Since in the times of the Rishis, the practice of Dharma diminished; to enhance the practice of the same and to protect and promote the welfare of the Dharani(Mother earth), Dharmapatni (consort or the wife) and Dharma(righteousness), the Rama Avatar took place. But when the Krishna Avatar took place, the demonism had increased all the more. Therefore, it was considered to focus all the attention only on Dharma and it was not critical to focus on Dharani (Mother earth) and Dharmapatni (consort or the wife). Once Dharma is protected and established, the welfare of the Dharani (Mother earth) and Dharmapatni(consort or the wife) is also ensured. That is why Rama is regarded as Maya Manusha Vigraha (embodiment of Maya or delusion) and Krishna is regarded as Leela Manusha Vigraha (embodiment of Leela or Divine sport). In the story of Lord Rama, Rama has been depicted as an individual bound by Maya, as one who wept for His consort, and as one who cried for the sake of a lady. But the Krishna Avatar is not like that. In the story of Krishna, all women cried for the sake of Krishna. It is just the reverse story! In the Rama Avatar, Rama went forward to wage a war only when provoked. When Ravana and the other wicked people took to the wrong path, Rama entered into a war with them out of compulsion. But the Krishna Avatar is not like that. Krishna would Himself provoke the demons and then engage in a fight with them. In Rama Avatar, it was first action followed by a smile. In Krishna Avatar, it was first a smile and then action. Looking at it this way, one can recognize the difference between a Maya Avatar and a Leela Avatar.

Krishna was always in bliss. Be it a burial ground, a safe place or a battlefield, He was in bliss everywhere. The war was about to commence. On one side there were 11 lakh warriors and on the other side there were 40 lakh warriors. Krishna was standing between the two armies and He was singing the Gita! “Gita” means a song. Can anyone sing a song under these circumstances? Normally, we sing a song only when we are happy. If we are happy, we sing a song even in the bathroom. Bliss or joy is the basis for singing a song. Since Krishna was the embodiment of bliss, He sang a song even in the battlefield. Therefore, happiness is union with God. Divinity lies in bliss.

14 August 1990

19 January to 25 January 2015

Do we need to go to the forest to seek peace?

Do we need to go to the forest to seek peace-2.29-1990 August 14

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.

But we need not go to any forest. We must recognize the Divine principle resident in our own heart. Today, you may go and sit in the forest but your intellect (or mind) may roam around in the city. That is “forest”, while this (your heart) is “for rest”! Your peace lies within you and not outside you. In such a sacred proximity and environment (of the heart), you can further develop your peace.

14 August 1990

12 January to 18 January 2015

What is the difference between Science and Spirituality?

What is the difference between Science and Spirituality-6.54-2002 November 20

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.

Om Poornamadah Poornamidam Poornaat Poornamudachyate

Poornasya Poornamaadaaya Poornamevaavashishyate

Om, That is Full, This also is Full, From Fullness comes that Fullness,

Even Taking Fullness away from Fullness, Fullness Indeed Remains

Isha Vasya Upanishad

That is whole. That is complete. That is sacred. But science is not complete in that sense. Like the letter “C”, it starts at one point and ends at some other point. There is a wide gap in between, like an abyss. You will fall into that.

What is science? It desires to find out, “What is this? What is this? What is this?” But spirituality, which represents totality seeks to find out, “What is that? What is that? What is that?”

“What is this” signifies closeness. “What is that” signifies distance. We desire to seek only “this”. “This” means it is very close. “That” means it is very far. That which is far away from the senses is spirituality and what is near to the senses is this world. The world is so near to the senses, but it is not dear. That which is far (spirituality) is dear.

Here is a small example where you can see (the truth) for yourself. You all came here to see Sai Baba, from distant lands like Zambia and East Africa. As you live so far, your love has developed so much that you yearn to come here. To go to a village just next to your place, you would not have such a yearning. We tend to neglect what is very near to us. We cultivate interest in that which is far away from us.

Therefore, seek “What is that?” That means beyond the senses. The true science is beyond the senses. What is below senses is just dirt. So, we must not go below the senses. We must go beyond the senses. Then we will be able to lead a sacred life. Students of today live below the senses. They live close to the senses and become slaves of their senses. They succumb to their senses. This is not true education. In fact, we must control our senses. We must be the master of our senses. That is true culture.

Today, we do not need to go beyond the senses. To not think of the senses itself is a great science. Today, right from the time we wake up to the moment we sleep, we are lost in senses, senses and senses. This is a very dirty life. We must not succumb to our senses. Senses are our servants. We must not be slaves to our own servants. We should be the masters and the senses must be our slaves.

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.

The Gunas(qualities) are not our masters, they are our servants. We are its masters. Master the mind and be a mastermind.

20 November 2002

05 January to 11 January 2015

What is the real Watch?

What is the real Watch-1.40-2002 November 20

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.

The first letter is “W”. It stands for “Watch your word”. We need to keep a watch: Am I making use of sacred words? Or am I making use of bad words?

The second letter is “A”. It stands for “Watch your action”.

The third letter is “T”. It stands for “Watch your thought”.

The fourth letter is “C”. It stands for “Watch your character”.

The fifth letter is “H”. It stands for “Watch your heart”.

This is the real WATCH. We consider the wrist watch as a watch. That is not the real watch. The wrist watch is likely to spoil at some time. But this acronym of WATCH will never get spoiled. It will always confer sacredness. What a sacred word it is. Therefore, we must assimilate (the essence of) such ideal good words.

20 November 2002

29 December 2014 to 04 January 2015

How can we win the Grace of the Lord?

How can we win the Grace of the Lord-4.20-1995 July 12

Grace of the Lord is the greatest wealth…

So long as we live in society, we need to follow social discipline. Living in society is like a business. A businessman started a business in a village. Ten members got together for the business. Each one of them invested an equal share in the business. They went on with their business. The profit they earned from the business was shared equally among them and so was the loss. Similarly, in this society we are all members. When all of us develop and nurture sacred feelings and thoughts we will earn very good profit. Each one of us will earn an equal share of the profit. We are all shareholders. In the business of (earning) God’s Grace, each one of us is a shareholder with equal rights.

We must prepare ourselves as shareholders. Where? In the bank of God’s Grace! There is lot of money in the bank. But none can even touch it. You are only a guardian. The guardian has no rights. You can only help. When you go to a bank, you find a cashier. All the money in the bank goes through the hands of the cashier. But thinking that the money is in his hands, the cashier cannot assume the right to touch even one naya paisa (lowest denomination of currency – one hundredth of a rupee). He can disburse cash only to the one who presents a cheque.

In the same manner, in the bank of God’s Grace, God has nothing to do with the cash (of Grace). God has nothing to do with all this money and business. But when you present the cheque of the fruits of your Sadhana (spiritual pursuit), God disburses the cash of His Grace! There are three methods of withdrawing money from a bank. If you need money from the bank, you should have deposited some money earlier in the form of a fixed deposit. Only then, you will have the right to receive your money back. If you have not deposited any money earned by you in the bank, you may ask for a loan. In this case, you can mortgage your permanent assets and take some money (as a loan). If this is also not feasible, and you still need money, you can take along with you a wealthy individual as a guarantor and seek loan on that basis.

These are the three pathways in spirituality too. When you deposit the merit you have earned in your previous births in the bank of God’s Grace, you can withdraw God’s Grace whenever you want. Not just merit of the past, even merit of the present (can be deposited in the bank). The second method is to mortgage your permanent assets and take a loan. What is the permanent asset you possess? It is the fruit of all the good that you have done in the past. In the third method, you need a guarantor. If you take some common man as a guarantor, the bank will not give you a loan. You have to take along with you a great person (a wealthy person). It is the Guru (preceptor) who stands as a guarantee. On the basis of the Guru as the guarantor, you will be given the wealth of God’s Grace! Who is that Guru? Guru is the Divine who is bereft of ignorance. It is in this context that it is said:

Guru Brahma Guru Vishnu Guru Devo Maheshwarah

Guru Saakshaat Para Brahma Tasmai Sri Guruve Namah

Guru is Brahma, Guru is Vishnu, Guru is Lord Maheswara,

Guru is verily the Para Brahman, My salutations to such a Guru.

12 July 1995

22 December to 28 December 2014

Can we escape the consequences of our actions?

Can we escape the consequences of our actions-6.43-1995 July 12

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).

Whatever actions we perform or feelings we entertain, we have to face the consequences of it. What we need to recognize today is that each one has to face the consequences of his / her actions. As is the tree so is the flower, as is the food so is the belch. You cannot escape the consequences (of your actions). However, with God’s Grace you can achieve anything. Human beings have to struggle to earn Divine Grace.

Some time or the other, we would have to face the consequences of our actions. Here is a small example: There are few actions whose consequences are to be faced immediately. There are other actions whose consequences have to be faced after a few minutes. There are also actions whose consequences have to be faced after a few days and there are those whose consequences appear after a few years. And there are some actions whose consequences have to be faced even after ages. When we run and our leg slips, we face the consequences of the action immediately in the form of a fracture. Slipping and sustaining the fracture happen in immediate sequence. When we do some (cutting) work, the knife may cut our hand. The moment the knife strikes, the blood flows. The flowing of the blood is the immediate consequence for the action. In the second type of actions, the consequences appear after a few hours. The food that we eat in the morning gets digested after about two hours. This action (of digestion) takes a few hours. Suppose we sow a seed in the earth, it takes a few days for it to sprout. For the sapling to become a tree, it takes a few years. For the tree to yield fruits, it takes even a few more years.

In this way, the consequences of actions may manifest in a few minutes, hours, days, months or even years. However, there are a few foolish people who claim that they have done many wrong things, but have not faced any wrong consequences thereafter. But the consequences are there. They will come in the future. One can never escape the consequences of their actions.

Among actions, there are three types of actions. Sukarma, Vikarma and Akarma. Sukarma means the consequences of good actions. It is performing good actions, whose results will always be good. Vikarma means performing bad actions, whose results will always be bad. Akarma means even without performing any actions, one faces certain consequences. These can be understood as consequences of the actions performed in the previous births. (For example) Mother Sita did not perform any bad actions. But what caused her to stay in the forest and suffer in the separation of her husband at Ashoka Vana? King Satya Harischandra did not perform any sinful actions. But why had he to sell his wife, lose his son and serve as the watchman in the burial ground? What is the reason for King Nala and Damyanti to be separated from one another and live in sorrow? This is neither Sukarma or Vikarma. This is Akarma. Even if one does not perform any actions currently, one would have to face the consequences of actions performed in the previous births. We must make an effort to recognize this uniqueness in humanity.

Whatever we may experience, however small or insignificant it may be, it is the result of our own actions. We can never escape this. Since we cannot escape the consequences of our actions, we need to make an attempt to overcome them by praying for and deserving the Grace of the Lord. We should make every effort in this direction.

12 July 1995

15 December to 21 December 2014

What are the criteria for classification of people into Varnas?

What are the criteria for classification of people into Varnas-4.40-1988 January 08

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.

Therefore Shudra is a one with Tamo Guna. He is foolish and dull headed. Kshatriyasare the ones with courage, valour and heroism. Brahmins are the ones with qualities of devotion and attachment to God, sacredness and total purity. It is on the basis of these Gunas that the castes were formed. But not recognizing this sacred Truth and Dharma, man has started following the wrong path.

Today on account of differences in castes and community, individuals, like dogs, are attempting to shatter humanity into pieces. One can never say that some are high and some others are low. One can never identify one as a lower caste and the other as a higher caste. Here is a good and appropriate analogy. The entire Vedas that were one whole, were classified into four Vedas by the great sage Vyasa. Can one ever say that one of these Vedas is great and the other is not? No. All the four Vedas are equal. All the four Vedas are sacred. All the four Vedas teach people to practice selfless actions. Similarly, as the division of castes have been made on the basis of the Gunas, no one has the right to identity one caste as high, another as low or yet another as medium. It is only because of narrow mindedness and because of the lack of capability to understand this concept that man is experiencing this caste system in a distorted manner.

08 January 1988

catur-varnyam maya sristam
guna-karma-vibhagasah
tasya kartaram api mam
viddhy akartaram avyayam

According to the three modes of material nature and the work ascribed to them, the four divisions of human society were created by Me. And, although I am the creator of this system, you should know that I am yet the non-doer, being unchangeable.

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 4, Verse 13

Dec

2013

MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK-4

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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!!

21 April to 27 April 2014

What is the role of sports, games and cultural activities in human life?

What is the role of sports, games and cultural activities in human life-3.26-1989 January 14

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).

Therefore sports and cultural activities have come into practice for the purpose of yielding health and happiness and not for the purpose of business. Today, games and cultural programmes have become a business. Our Institute students should participate in sports and cultural activities in order to develop good memory, good strength, good health and joy. However, with the passage of time, students tend to move away from sports and cultural activities. In our Institute, every student should compulsorily participate in sports and games. We must give up all selfishness and self-centeredness. We must develop equal mindedness. We must develop divine equality considering all as our brothers and sisters. Without hating each other, without criticizing each other, regarding love as the most significant principle of humanity, keep love as your important goal and strive to achieve it.

14 January 1989

14 April to 20 April 2014

What is the early morning discipline that we are expected to follow?

What is the early morning discipline that we are expected to follow-2.51-1989 January 14

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.

There is another title for Dundhubhi; the one who wastes and misuses time is also referred to as Dundhubhi. When Suprabhatam(early morning prayers) and meditation goes on between 4 am and 5 am, it is not correct for us to desecrate our time and continue sleeping, covering ourselves with rugs. By desecrating time like this, our radiance also diminishes. The one gets up late from sleep will turn out to be a lazy person. When one gets up early, the good and quick blood circulation that takes place in the body, enhances memory power.

14 January 1989

07 April to 13 April 2014

Does the mind trouble us or do we trouble ourselves and blame the mind?

Does the mind trouble us or do we trouble ourselves and blame the mind-2.38-1990 May 21

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.

An old woman came to Me and cried out prayerfully, “Swami this wicked mind is subjecting me to so many types of troubles, it is making me wander to so many places, it is subjecting me to such terrible situations”. When I asked her, “Who is troubling you?”; she replied, “Swami, my mind”. I told her, “Show me where your mind is, I will catch it and kill it”. She replied, “Swami, I do not know where it is”. When you do not know where your mind is, how do you know that the mind is troubling you? Is the mind troubling you or are you troubling yourself? When you know that a particular person is troubling you, you can get rid of that person; but when you do not know what is troubling you, merely blaming the mind and sitting down is sheer laziness.

Thus, we must make an attempt to understand the principle underlying the mind. We must also make an effort to understand the principle underlying the senses. Everything in God’s creation is embedded with great significance. God will never create anything that has no meaning. Everything has some meaning, is full of joy and most valuable. However, we are not making an effort to realize this truth.

21 May 1990

31 March to 06 April 2014

Why should we entertain good thoughts and seek good company?

Why should we entertain good thoughts and seek good company-4.26-1990 May 24

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.

Here is an example. Suppose you get angry with someone. Thereafter, that person will also get angry with you. But what is the cause of anger in that person? It is your anger, which has provoked or triggered anger in that person. This is the disease of contagiousness. That is why we must never join bad company. This is what Einstein said, “Tell me your company, I shall tell you what you are”. If we want to tell something about ourselves, we must first examine our company.

Thus, we must join good company.

Satsangatve Nissangatvam

Nissangatve Nirmohatvam

Nirmohatve Nischalatatvam

Nischalatatve Jeevanmukti

The company of the good (Satsangatvam) weans one away from false attachments (Nissangatvam); from non-attachment comes freedom from delusion (Nirmohatvam), when the delusion ends, the mind becomes unwavering and steady (Nischalatatvam) and from an unwavering and steady mind comes Jeevan Mukti (liberation even in this life).

Verse from Bhaja Govindam by Sri Adi Shankaracharya

Good company leads to good thoughts. Students, develop good thoughts and fulfill your lives with good feelings. Set an ideal for others. Do not entertain bad thoughts, bad feelings and bad actions for temporary and short lived happiness and joy. Bad thoughts yield fruits just for that moment, but later we will be subject to ten times and hundred times greater danger.

Therefore, keep the future in mind. Have belief in the truth that everything has reaction, resound and reflection. Whatever you do, the fruits will be bestowed on you. Whatever seeds you sow, you will reap similar fruits thereof. When you are born from your mother’s womb, no garland is seen around your neck. You would not find any garland of pearls or any gold chain or chain of diamonds and emeralds. But there will certainly be a garland around your neck. Based on the actions performed by you in your past birth, be it good deeds or bad deeds, Lord Brahma sends you into this world with a heavy garland, a necklace that is made with all your karmas (karmic consequences). So, let us do good and wear a good garland. We need not perform bad actions and wear a bad garland.

24 May 1990

24 March to 30 March 2014

What should be our relationship with God?

What should be our relationship with God-2.30-1986 October 11

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.

The inner significance of this is that you and I are One. Divinity is all pervasive. He resides as the inner being in every body. He exists as the indweller in every being. In such a case, you cannot walk behind Me or in front of Me. Therefore, you will have to take Divinity with you, along with you. This is the characteristic of a real Sadhaka (spiritual aspirant).

11 October 1986

17 March to 23 March 2014

What is the right answer to the question-Where is God?

What is the right answer to the question-Where is God-2.27-1989 February 17

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.

Among all these answers, the response, “God is everywhere” is right. But this is not practical knowledge. This is mere bookish knowledge or it is the knowledge gained from hearing to the elders.

However, the answer, “God is in me” is a wrong answer. Where is this kerchief (pointing to a kerchief that Swami is holding in His hands)? This kerchief is in my hands. Therefore, my hand is bigger and the kerchief is smaller. Similarly, if you say, “God is in me”, it means you are bigger and God is smaller.

Thus, “I am in God” is the right answer. You are in God. God is not in you. When God is everywhere, how can you exist separately and how can He exist in you separately? In fact, you are in God.

We must develop such Vishaala Bhaavam (broad mindedness). Therefore, wherever we go, we must consider that we are travelling in God. Whenever we eat food, we must consider that we are eating food with God. Whenever we talk with someone, we must consider that we are talking with God only. If we develop and nurture this kind of feeling, there can no greater devotion than this.

17 February 1989

10 March to 16 March 2014

What is true freedom?

What is true freedom-1.55-1989 February 17

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.

Atma Nigraham (Self-control) is true freedom. Atmaanandam (bliss of the Self) is true freedom. Atma Jnaanam (knowledge of the Self) is true freedom. That is why it is said, “the end of wisdom is freedom”. Wisdom is freedom. Once we understand this principle, we realize that the whole universe is Divine; everything is the Divine principle.

17 February 1989

03 March to 09 March 2014

How does human love assume different forms at different points of time?

How does huamn love assume different forms at different points of time-2.52-1989 February 17

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.

17 February 1989

27 February 2014

Shivaratri Special

What is the uniqueness of Shivaratri-The night of Shiva?

What is the uniqueness of Shivaratri-The night of Shiva-7.07-1978 March 07

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.

Here Rudra consists of the 5 sensory perceptions and the 5 sense organs, which join together to make 10. The mind joins with them and become 11. These 11 Rudraasinfluence the Buddhi (intellect), turn it towards the sensory objects of the world and enslaves it. As the mind takes charge of the 10 senses, they lose control and the 11 Rudraas make the Buddhi (intellect) go onto the wrong path. Therefore, the 11 Rudraas, in this sacred life of ours, make us lose control of the intellect and the mind over the ten senses, thus allowing them to move around freely and become the victims of desperate situations and circumstances among the sensory objects of the world. Thus the mind, along with these senses, takes the form of the 11 Rudraas.

But during Shivaratri, the Atma, which is the master of the mind, also comes into the scene and takes the form of the Dwaadashaaditya(the 12^th aspect of the sun). Thus as the Atma assumes the position of the sun, it takes charge of the mind and the senses and they remain in its control without any freedom of their own. Thus the sacred Shivaratri conveys the truth that the principle of Dwaadashaaditya(Atma) will help us to exercise control (over our mind and senses). On this night, there is an opportunity to transform any small sacred act, any sacred thought, or any chanting of the sacred name into one of great significance. This is because, the rays of the Atman fall directly on the Buddhi (intellect), the rays of the intellect fall on the mind, the mind makes its impact on the senses and the senses become inert. Therefore, on this day, we have the great opportunity of letting the rays of the Atma fall directly on our heart, on our intellect and on our mind.

07 March 1978

24 February to 02 March 2014

What is the source of Divine Bliss?

What is the source of Divine Bliss-4.04-1989 February 17

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 butter in every particle of milk. But when we see the milk, the butter is not visible to us. When the milk is curdled and the curd is then churned, the butter becomes visible to us. If however, we blame the milk for not revealing to us the butter in it, how can we get the butter? In the same way, bliss permeates the entire mind of man. If the mind is churned, then we will discover bliss in it. But without churning the mind, without enquiring into the mind, if we merely seek for bliss, we will never get it.

Air is present all around us. But our eyes cannot see it. We cannot catch hold of it. But without air, we cannot live. We cannot deny the existence of air just because we cannot see it and we cannot grasp it. Divinity and bliss are present everywhere. To seek bliss in the external world is a sign of ignorance. Our bliss is right within us.

17 February 1989

17 February to 23 February 2014

What are the four practices of Ceiling on Desires?

What are the four practices of Ceiling on Desires-8.48-1989 February 17-1990 May 21

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.

We have thus advised you about the four practices of Ceiling on Desires.

Don’t waste food

The first one is “Don’t waste food”. Why should we not waste food? Food is God. This physical form, which we don, has emanated from food only. This entire life is based on food, exists on food. That is why, wasting food amounts to wasting life itself.

Don’t waste money

The second one is “Don’t waste money”. Misuse of money is evil. Today, youth are spending and wasting money in unnecessary ways. This leads to bad habits and leads them on the wrong path, subjecting them to various forms of misery. To the extent possible, we must reduce the misuse of money. This is not at all good.

Don’t waste energy

Here is a small example. Let’s take a radio. You have tuned in to some station. Now, you may either keep the volume very high or quite soft. Once you switch on the radio, whatever may be the volume, whether you listen to it or not, several units of electricity are consumed anyway. In the same manner, our human body is like a radio. We are constantly thinking, talking, talking loudly, talking to ourselves within, talking in our sleep and before we sleep. We are constantly engaged in talking within ourselves (in the form of thoughts) right from the time we wake up to the time we go to sleep. Through this, we lose so much of energy. On account of wasting energy, our lives get transformed into an allergy. Therefore, we must make an effort to use the energy in this human body in the right manner, for a good cause. Then alone, there will be a right balance in life. Students, only when the body is healthy and fit, we can enjoy the right balance in life.

Don’t waste time

Do not worry about the past. Forget the past. We have anyway seen the road that we have treaded on, then why look back again? Even if we were to spend lakhs or crores of rupees, we cannot get back even one second, nor can we tread back even one inch in our life. Why should we then worry about that which can never come back? The future is not known to us, it is unfathomable. We say tomorrow, tomorrow. But what is the guarantee that we will live until tomorrow? What is the guarantee about the next day? Why do we then think about that which is not guaranteed? Future is not sure. Why insure on that which is not sure? Our life gets wasted on account of worries related to these two (past and future). What is the reason for today’s people, specifically the youth, being subject to sorrow, worry and ill health? They are not contended with they have and are aspiring for what they do not have. That is why they are victims of lack of peace. Students, past is past, future is future. We need not worry about these two. The present is very important. Present, present, present…this is not ordinary present; it is omnipresent. This means that the fruits of the future are contained in the present. Whatever seeds we have sown in the past, the sprouts of the same have come now. Whatever seeds we sow now, we will bear the fruits of those in future. Thus, both the future and the past are actually contained in the present. Therefore, use the present in a proper way. Do not give scope for any type of worry. When we spend our life in a proper manner, only then we will be able to lead an ideal life, an immortal life. This will bestow on us immortality and will sanctify our lives.

17 February 1989 and 21 May 1990

10 February to 16 February 2014

How can our human body be compared to a limited company?

How can our human body be compared to a limited company-2.14-1990 May 21

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.

Ati Tindi Mati Haani

Mita Tindi Ati Haayi

(Too much food harms the mind; limited food gives great comfort and welfare)

Ati Bhaasha Mati Haani

Mita Bhaasha Ati Haayi

(Too much talk harms the mind; limited talk gives great comfort and welfare)

Therefore, human beings must practice and follow the path or the way of living that gives happiness.

21 May 1990

03 February to 09 February 2014

Who is the real doer-Who is responsible for failure or success in life?

Who is the real doer-Who is responsible for failure or success in life-3.45-1990 May 29

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.

Students, success or failure are not because of your actions, your pursuits or your efforts. You are getting drowned in delusion, and assuming that you have accomplished something because of your efforts; you are enhancing your ego all the more. Have we not seen any number of initiatives in this world, where in spite of all the efforts, there has been no success? Also, have we not seen large number of initiatives, where without much efforts, there has been success? Instead of putting in all your efforts, finally meeting with failure and subjecting yourself to so much worry; if you have faith in God, consider all that you do as God’s work and attempt to understand your true (Divine) principle, then you will gain victory in all spheres of life.

We must correctly recognize that there is nothing which we can accomplish, merely with our efforts. The evidence for this is manifest right within our own human body. What effort are you putting in to beat the heart in your body? What effort are you putting in for the inhalation and exhalation (of breath) that you are undergoing every second? What effort are you putting in to digest the food that you have eaten? Can all these be accomplished with your efforts? No, not at all. Just by hoping that you will continue to live, can you keep on living? Similarly, just by wishing that you should die, can you die at your will? Are you responsible for your birth? No. no, no. Therefore, if you enquire deeply into this, it is only your kartritva (doership) and bhoktritva (enjoyership) that are enhancing your ahamkaaram (ego) and mamakaaram (attachment) all the more.

29 May 1990

27 January to 02 February 2014

How can we learn the lesson of love and human values from our own human body?

67-How can we learn the lesson of love and human values from our own human body-2.44-1986 March 09

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.

If the legs do not listen to the command of the eyes and place themselves over the thorn, they will start bleeding. Now, the legs have got the injury but the eyes start crying. Try to understand; when the thorn pricks the legs, the eyes feel so bad. The eyes can remain unperturbed, thinking that after all the thorn has pricked the legs and not me (but they do not do so).

We must try to understand the love and attachment between the eyes and legs (and for that matter between all our limbs). This is humanity. Only when we consider the pain being experienced by others as our own pain, true humaneness manifests itself. Our own sense organs are our true gurus (preceptors) and they teach us the lessons of human values. There are so many lessons we can learn from the machine called the human body.

09 March 1986

20 January to 26 January 2014

How can we learn the lesson of cooperation and harmony from our own human body?

How can we learn the lesson of cooperation and harmony from our own human body-5.23-1986 March 09

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.

Let us assume that the mind desires for a particular object. Immediately, the legs make an effort to acquire that object. For example, let us say the mind desires for a fruit on a particular tree. The mind cannot experience the fruit as soon as it wishes for it. The legs go walking to that tree. It becomes the duty of the legs to fulfil the wish of the mind. The legs perform their duty and go and stand near the tree. Once they stand there, the waist takes over its duty and it bends down. The waist has duly completed its duty. But still the fruit has not been acquired. Next, the hand picks up a stone. Just by picking up a stone, it cannot get the fruit. However, it has done its duty and it keeps silent. Next, the shoulder starts its task. It throws the stone towards the tree (at the fruit). Once the fruit drops down, the fingers pick it up and do their duty of offering it to the mouth. The mouth also performs its limited duty. It tastes the fruit to check whether it is sour or sweet. If it is sweet, it says “I do not need it. O stomach, you are the master of everything”, and it sends the fruit inside. In case it is sour, then it says, “O, this is not good for the body, it will become a cause for disease” and it offers it to mother earth. It spats it on the ground (Thuuu). Thus, the stomach receives the fruit that has been sent inside with the effort of all the limbs; but it does not consume the fruit all alone with pride. The digestive fire in the stomach digests the fruit well and distributes the essence of it (in the form of energy) to all the limbs of the body, acknowledging the fact that it is all these limbs that have worked together to send this fruit to the stomach. Thus, there is an opportunity to demonstrate such mutual interrelationship and mutual interdependency in our human body.

09 March 1986

13 January to 19 January 2014

What is the real crop that we need to harvest in this human life?

What is the real crop that we need to harvest in this human life-4.57-1986 March 09

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.

Sathya Dharmamu Shanti Premalato Nee Nitya Jeevana Yaatra Saaginchu

Jeeva……

Sathya Dharmamu Shanti Premalato Nee Nitya Jeevana Yaatra Saaginchu

Oh human being, you need to carry out your life with the values of Sathya (Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Shanthi (Peace) and Prema (Love).

Karmayogame Janma Dharmambu

Deeniki….. Karmayogame Janma Dharmambu

Smaraname Maanava Marma Rahasyamu

Saadhane Bhaktula Saaralakshnamu

Sathya Dharmamu Shanti Premalato Nee Nitya Jeevana Yaatra Saaginchu

Karma Yoga is the Dharma (duty) of your very human birth,

Remembering the Lord is the great secret,

And Sadhana (spiritual pursuit) is the devotee’s hallmark,

Proceed, oh man, on your life’s pilgrimage

With Truth, Righteousness, Peace and Love.

Regard the heart as a vast field. Use the mind as a plough. Treat the gunas (qualities/attributes of Satva, Rajas and Tamas) as bullocks. Use the viveka (intellect/power of discrimination) as a whip. With these aids, cultivate the field of your heart. What is the crop that is to be grown in it? Sathya(Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Shanthi (Peace) and Prema (Love) are the seeds to be sown, Bhakti (devotion) is the rain, Bhaava(feelings) is the manure, and Brahmananda(Divine bliss) is the crop.

So what is our duty today? Keeping the plough of the mind in our control, tying it to the bullocks of the gunas, taking the reins of viveka (intellect) in our hands, we must grow the crop of love, truth, righteousness and peace in our heart.

This crop has to be raised in our heart and should be shared with others. Our life is like a block of ice which is melting away every moment. Before it spends itself, devote it to the service of others. Education in Human Values is commenced to prepare everyone for this life of dedicated service.

09 March 1986

06 January to 12 January 2014

Is it mandatory to know the meaning of Vedas to benefit from its chanting?

Is it mandatory to know the meaning of Vedas to benefit from its chanting-1.40-1993 October 18

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.

The mother places the baby in the cradle and sings a lullaby to it. But can the baby understand the meaning of the lullaby that its mother sings? No, the baby cannot, but the mere tune of the lullaby puts the baby to sound sleep. In the same way, even if you do not know the meaning of the Vedas, when others chant the same in the correct manner, you can listen to it joyfully. You will experience happiness by merely listening to the chanting. You must contemplate on that very listening and that very contemplation will get assimilated within you.

Therefore, there is so much joy in mere listening too. It is sound and there is great power in this sound.

18 October 1993

30 December 2013 to 05 January 2014

What should be our approach to the celebration of the New Year?

What should be our approach to the celebration of the New Year-1.12-1998 March 29

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.

We must discover a new path. We must discover a new life. We must experience a new happiness. But we do not think about this. We merely remain expectant that the New Year will bring something. We have to work ourselves to get something; the New Year will not confer on us anything. Think to yourself – introspect, surrender yourself to God, and immerse yourself in the awareness of God. Then you will be able to achieve anything.

29 March 1998

23 December to 29 December 2013

What is the threefold message of Jesus to humanity?

What is the threefold message of Jesus to humanity-4.43-1982 December 25

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.

Gradually, he moved to the domain of the mind from the domain of the body. He expressed the principle of the mind and his feelings through the proclamation, “I am the son of God”. Using the principle of the mind, he started investigating into what is real and what is unreal; what is truth and what is untruth? The entire universe is merely a projection of one’s perception (vision). All actions are the reflection of the feelings of the mind. He recognized this truth.

Having completed the enquiry into the mind, he then entered the domain of the intellect. At this stage, he declared, “I and my father are one!” That means, the father and the son are close and related.

This is where every Sadhaka (spiritual seeker/aspirant) must recognize this aspect. Every being is the child of God. The child inherits the qualities of the father. A goat cannot be born in the womb of a tiger nor can a tiger be born in the womb of a goat. Just as a tiger alone is born in the womb of a tiger, the human child born from the Divine father must have the qualities of the father only. Thus, when he realized that there was no difference between him and his father, he referred to the “Holy Ghost”.

Therefore, at the level of the physical body, we must engage in action; at the level of the mind, we must enquire into the real and the unreal; and at the level of the intellect we must develop proximity and a bond (with Divinity). Then alone, “Brahmavid Brahmaiva Bhavati”; we will get the strength to recognize the unity of the two.

25 December 1982

16 December to 22 December 2013

What is the inner significance of waking early in the morning and offering prayers?

What is the inner significance of waking early in the morning and offering prayers-1989 June 29

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.

The time period from morning 8 am to evening 4 pm is associated with Rajo Guna. Everybody start performing their tasks during this period. All the authorities work and offices remain open from 8 am to 4 pm. This is the time for doing all work. This 8 hours period is Rajasic.

From morning 4 am to 8 am we have 4 hours. Again in the evening from 4 pm to 8 pm we have another 4 hours. When we add the two 4 hours, it becomes 8 hours. This is the Satvic period.

Thus, 8 hours Tamasic, 8 hours Rajasic and 8 hours Satvic; 8 x 3 = 24 hours. It adds up correctly (to the number of hours in a day).

Therefore, the Satvic period starts from early morning 4 am. We should be awake by then. We must commence our Sadhana or even studies in this Satvic period; this is the most sacred time. Getting up, having a bath, awakening all our senses, ourselves falling into all dirt; we need not do all this. We need not even have a bath. The sense organs are very calm and peaceful at this time. It would be taking rest. During this peaceful period whatever you think, it (thoughts or prayers) will smoothly go and reach God. Even things that we have forgotten come to our memory at this time. Therefore, to the extent possible, we must commence our prayers during this Satvic period.

Some say, “O! it is not possible to get up so early at 4 am”, and they wake up at 8 am. There are others who wake up at 9 am and go to school with an unwashed sleepy face. These are all the brothers of Kumbhakarana!

We must get up at 4 am. First complete your ablutions and wash your face; then sit with joy. Why should you wash your face? It is only to avoid feeling sleepy. If we understand and recognize all these subtle aspects, we will be able to practice Dhyaana very easily.

In the evening too, you return from the college. You have time from 4 pm to 8 pm. You can go and play and participate in games. But then after 6 pm, wash your hands and legs and at least sit for 5 minutes (in meditation). Dhyaanam is only for 2 minutes and 24 seconds. You do not need to sit for hours. If you practice like this, it will be so sacred. Truly you try this and see; your joy, your brightness / luster and your sacredness will get so enhanced.

Today, you are engaging continuously only in crazy thoughts and crazy feelings and therefore if one sees your face, it appears so odd. It looks like the face of a sick person. There is no brightness / luster on the face. Purity is the root cause for Tejas (brightness / luster). If there is purity within, there will be so much brightness / luster on your face.

29 June 1989

Sep

2013

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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.

Each quote has a graphic presentation of the quote followed by an audio clip that will enable you to listen to the quote in Bhagawan’s own melodious voice. The audio clip has a name that adopts the following code: Title relating to the quote, 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.

Hrut + Daya = Hrudaya-0.45-1996 December 25

God dwells in my heart. Where is God? If there are no Divine feelings than this heart is not a heart, it is just a rock, a stone.

Hrut + Daya = Hrudaya

Heart is the one which is full of compassion. Without compassion, the heart is only a stone. Therefore, we need to develop compassion. That is the principle of Love gifted by Jesus. Love…Love..Love..

Love is God. Live in Love.

All are my brothers-0.31-1999 November 18

All are my brothers. Have that feeling. Do not entertain difference that someone is your brother and someone else is your brother-in-law. These differences relate to the body alone. For the Atma, all are our brothers.

Mamaivamso Jiva Loke Jiva Bhutah Sanatanah

The living entities in this conditioned world are My eternal, fragmental parts.

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter-15, Verse-7

The Lord said, “All are My sparks only”.

Less luggage more comfort makes travel a pleasure-0.35-1999 November 18

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.

This is the way to God-1.02-1996 December 25

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,

Start the day with Love

Fill the day with Love

Spend the day with Love

End the day with Love

This is the way to God

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.

Jagath means coming and going-0.59-1996 July 06

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.

Expansion Love is God-Contraction love is death-0.50-1998 September 25

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.”

Body is like water bubble-Mind is like mad monkey-0.45-1999 November 18

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 heart-There will be beauty in character-1.25-1990 May 24

If there is righteousness in the heart, there will be beauty in the character,

If there is beauty in the character, there will be harmony in the home,

If there is harmony in the home, there will be order in the nation,

If there is order in the nation, there will be peace in the world.

Therefore, in order to get peace, we must develop right character. Right action is referred to as Dharma. In order to have right actions, we must first have right thoughts.

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?

Haste makes Waste-1.07-1990 May 24

We must ensure that our thoughts are set on the right path. As soon as the thought emerges, we must enquire whether it is good or bad. But human beings, being in a hurry, do not give any opportunity for such an enquiry. Humans are always in haste. They want everything as soon as they desire.

That is why:

Haste makes waste

Waste makes worry

So, do not be in a hurry

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.

Where there is faith-there is love-1.16-1988 December 25

Where there is Faith (Confidence), there is Love,

Where there is Love, there is Peace,

Where there is Peace, there is Truth,

Where there is Truth, there is Bliss,

Where there is Bliss, there is God.

Therefore, we must develop and nurture faith in ourselves. Love manifests only through faith. Only through love, we can get peace. With peace, we will be able to enter onto the path of truth. Walking on the path of truth, we can get bliss. Finally, the bliss gets transformed into the form of God. Without faith, we will become blind. We develop faith in all sorts of silly things, but we need to have earned some merit and be deserving to develop faith in truth and in sacredness.

God

Krishna Janmashtami

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