hi folks!
My name is Ravi Singh and i want to narrate an anecdote that happened practically with me.
I use to believe in god and had a notion that there is a supreme power who rules us all, and that is true to an extent.
But, as we all know that "God helps those who help themselves" that is one has to do their respective karams (work assigned) and then only can one gain success in life. I belong to a joint family wherein there are certain rules and regulations for one and all.
My father is an Adhyatmik Guru that is he preaches as to how one can become one with god. That is if i had complete faith in Shivji (or any god for that matter) believed that he would come to save me in case i am in trouble then he will definitely help me. I was use to listening all such things from the childhood, but really never believed in the same.
Once while i was doing my M.B.A from Gaziabad, i wanted to go to vaishnodevi along with my friend from college. I asked my father for permission to do so, but he denied saying that the weather out there is really not very good and u can go some other time. I was very very upset at the prospect of not being able to go with my friends, becoz i came to know that the weather was absolutely perfect over there.
All my friends went to vaishnodevi, but after they came back from the trip did i come to know that they were trapped in the thunderstorm and there was snowfall as well. Suddenly the weather had changed and become very extreme and that they faced lot of difficulties while they were there.
Now, i suddenly recollected as to my father denying me to go there due to bad weather. I, now never question my father's decisions over the minutest of things.
I now see him more as an Guru rather than father and have full faith in him. Now, i realize as to why people from all over the world come to seek his advice for their various problems.
Thanks for your patience to read this article, but here i want to emphasize on the importance of faith on god or any person or any thing for that matter.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Thursday, December 13, 2007
I used to be a diver of the ocean
“Main marjiva sumund ka dubki mari ek,
Muuthi layaa prem kii jaa mein vastu anek”.
To simplify:
I used to be a diver of the ocean, who searched for pearls.
When I dived deep into the
One has to die a living death. Hope and care for living has to be
given up then something can be achieved. In the ocean of worldly
bondage a boat can move, the self can cross it and become free
only when there is no desire left. If the weight of desire increases
the boat will sink.
۞۞۞۞
The sound of the bell is considered as special. Whoever can listen
to it must concentrate on it. If the mind focuses on it, one is able
to reach the center. If the soul can latch on to ‘shabd’ then one
remembers it even when asleep. If it happens that one attains to the state of Videha, then, even on lying down to sleep, one hears
‘the sound’ and the mind focuses on it. One is if body-less:-
OM JAI GURUDEV
"Jagat bhog jo hain nishpaapaa, so sab dein turvavein aapa.
Jog bhog sang sang karwavein, dou bairin ko jod milavein
udyam, pesha, kuchh na chhudvein, rakhi jagat mein bhakti
dridaavein.
Raag beech bairaag karaavein, Parmaarath anuraag badaavein".
To simplify:
This is the ultimate word about Grihasth Satsangis that Satguru conveys: Live in this world whilst remaining detached from it break away from the vain self. Satguru helps one to do so. He enables one to free oneself of what may seem as contradiction in this. He does not make one give up either business or profession. He enables one to achieve firmness towards devotion whilst being a part of this world. Within the melee of the world, he teaches asceticism subsequently the sadhak's devotion to parmarth increases day by day
Jog bhog sang sang karwavein, dou bairin ko jod milavein
udyam, pesha, kuchh na chhudvein, rakhi jagat mein bhakti
dridaavein.
Raag beech bairaag karaavein, Parmaarath anuraag badaavein".
To simplify:
This is the ultimate word about Grihasth Satsangis that Satguru conveys: Live in this world whilst remaining detached from it break away from the vain self. Satguru helps one to do so. He enables one to free oneself of what may seem as contradiction in this. He does not make one give up either business or profession. He enables one to achieve firmness towards devotion whilst being a part of this world. Within the melee of the world, he teaches asceticism subsequently the sadhak's devotion to parmarth increases day by day
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Submission to God
" Manushyanam Sahsreshru kishchadyatati siddhayae,
Yatataamapi siddhanam kashchinam vaetti tattvatah."
This couplet from the Gita conveys that out of a thousand aspirants very few attain the stature of Siddhas. Out of these few only one or two know 'me' as the 'Kaewalya Swaroop' - as the One and only eternal principal.
Shiv conveys to Brahma in these words that though there exist various ways for one to elevate oneself to the Supreme state, they are difficult; unless one follows the Siddha Mahayog and seeks the help, blessing, of a Satguru.
"The awakening of the inner self is the first step of yog. As the sadhak of spirituality becomes averse to the world outside, he begins to resist wordly temptations and receive divine wealth whilst coming close to the soul. Then, the day dawns when, through a totally settled Samadhi he becomes the manifest soul, established in the pure happiness of the soul." But this inner awakening is possible only through the grace of Sidhha-purus or accomplished Satguru. Only through his grace can a sadhak attain the 'Kaewalya Swaroop'.
Yatataamapi siddhanam kashchinam vaetti tattvatah."
This couplet from the Gita conveys that out of a thousand aspirants very few attain the stature of Siddhas. Out of these few only one or two know 'me' as the 'Kaewalya Swaroop' - as the One and only eternal principal.
Shiv conveys to Brahma in these words that though there exist various ways for one to elevate oneself to the Supreme state, they are difficult; unless one follows the Siddha Mahayog and seeks the help, blessing, of a Satguru.
"The awakening of the inner self is the first step of yog. As the sadhak of spirituality becomes averse to the world outside, he begins to resist wordly temptations and receive divine wealth whilst coming close to the soul. Then, the day dawns when, through a totally settled Samadhi he becomes the manifest soul, established in the pure happiness of the soul." But this inner awakening is possible only through the grace of Sidhha-purus or accomplished Satguru. Only through his grace can a sadhak attain the 'Kaewalya Swaroop'.
Divya Charitamrit
" Tulsidas ji has stated-Guru bin hoi ki gyan, gyan ki hoi birag binuu,
gawahin ved puran,sukh ki lahiya hari bhagati binuu
To simplify:
No knowledge can be gained without a Guru and also no knowledge can exist without detachment from worldly pleasures, there cannot be real happiness without devotion to God. So declare, the Vedas and puranas.
gawahin ved puran,sukh ki lahiya hari bhagati binuu
To simplify:
No knowledge can be gained without a Guru and also no knowledge can exist without detachment from worldly pleasures, there cannot be real happiness without devotion to God. So declare, the Vedas and puranas.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Resolving The Paradox Between Psychology And Spirituality
It seems that there is a contradiction between the psychology of transcendence and the spiritual idea of transcendence.
Psychologists believe that through the proper application of intelligence and self-cognition one can have a full and enjoyable life, with wealth, health, and a great relationship, as well as a sense of communal belonging and contribution.
Those in spiritual groups, in particular of an eastern orientation, believe that one has to get rid of the lustful ego that craves only fleeting things and to unify with divine consciousness.
The most popular compromise to resolve this seeming paradox is that you have to build up the self and let it go. In Vedic philosophy this is expressed as becoming a householder in the first stages of life then retiring to pursue transcendence.
Yet most believe, because of cognitive dissonance, that they should choose one view or the other.
Thus, there are those who believe that they should be worldly and experience the world as it appears to be.
Then there are those who believe that they should reject the world and dedicate themselves to getting out of the misery of the cycle of birth and death.
Here is another way of understanding this paradox.
The self is a transcendent consciousness. It is not limited to a particular body or a particular lifetime. Because it is not anything in particular, the "I" is not an "it." This is why Buddhists say there is "no-self."
Similarly, the world itself is entirely illusory. I don't mean this metaphorically or even psychologically. At the subatomic level, again there is no substance. There are just probability patterns that literally flit in and out of existence! For example, an electron can appear under an observing instrument then disappear, then reappear again. There literally is no stuff! This is why the Vedantists say that the world is Maya, or illusory.
Yet to all purposes, on the macroscopic level, both an intelligent being and an intelligible world appear to exist.
On this level, personal growth and advancement is necessary, not because it means anything on a cosmic scale, but because there is literally nothing else to do with this adventure of life. You can either resist evolution and suffer all kinds of lack or you can embrace evolution and the refining of mind and enjoy fulfillment of resources and experiences.
Thus, when you look at things from the view of levels of perception, all contradictions disappear, just as the contradiction of day and night disappears when you understand that the sun and earth are in a cosmic dance.
It is possible to be engaged in the world and to actually enjoy it and at the same time to enjoy meditation and contemplation to experience the inner sky of blissful freedom. It is by no means an easy path, but after a while, they will support each other. Material success and harmonious relationships will give you the opportunity to retreat to your inner work. Similarly your inner work will contribute to your increase of abundance and maintaining a loving relationship with others.
Psychologists believe that through the proper application of intelligence and self-cognition one can have a full and enjoyable life, with wealth, health, and a great relationship, as well as a sense of communal belonging and contribution.
Those in spiritual groups, in particular of an eastern orientation, believe that one has to get rid of the lustful ego that craves only fleeting things and to unify with divine consciousness.
The most popular compromise to resolve this seeming paradox is that you have to build up the self and let it go. In Vedic philosophy this is expressed as becoming a householder in the first stages of life then retiring to pursue transcendence.
Yet most believe, because of cognitive dissonance, that they should choose one view or the other.
Thus, there are those who believe that they should be worldly and experience the world as it appears to be.
Then there are those who believe that they should reject the world and dedicate themselves to getting out of the misery of the cycle of birth and death.
Here is another way of understanding this paradox.
The self is a transcendent consciousness. It is not limited to a particular body or a particular lifetime. Because it is not anything in particular, the "I" is not an "it." This is why Buddhists say there is "no-self."
Similarly, the world itself is entirely illusory. I don't mean this metaphorically or even psychologically. At the subatomic level, again there is no substance. There are just probability patterns that literally flit in and out of existence! For example, an electron can appear under an observing instrument then disappear, then reappear again. There literally is no stuff! This is why the Vedantists say that the world is Maya, or illusory.
Yet to all purposes, on the macroscopic level, both an intelligent being and an intelligible world appear to exist.
On this level, personal growth and advancement is necessary, not because it means anything on a cosmic scale, but because there is literally nothing else to do with this adventure of life. You can either resist evolution and suffer all kinds of lack or you can embrace evolution and the refining of mind and enjoy fulfillment of resources and experiences.
Thus, when you look at things from the view of levels of perception, all contradictions disappear, just as the contradiction of day and night disappears when you understand that the sun and earth are in a cosmic dance.
It is possible to be engaged in the world and to actually enjoy it and at the same time to enjoy meditation and contemplation to experience the inner sky of blissful freedom. It is by no means an easy path, but after a while, they will support each other. Material success and harmonious relationships will give you the opportunity to retreat to your inner work. Similarly your inner work will contribute to your increase of abundance and maintaining a loving relationship with others.
The Gift
Give yourself the gift of laughter, song, and love. Touch your life with your own magnificence. You are the ocean. Life itself. You are everything that you were meant to be. Touch your own soul; become whole once more.
Everything is the way it is. Let yourself see it as it is. Free yourself from the delusions of despair.
You cannot save the world from it's nightmares, but you can save yourself; and in doing this, you will salvage the world; for it will see your clear light and hear your clear call.
What if you don't have everything you need right now? Who you are is pure gold. You are the incarnation of abundance. It is right here where you are. Each part of your body is sacred, a miracle of life. And your mind is the greatest thing ever known among all living forms in the history of creation.
When you walk, you grace the earth itself with your presence. Who are you is the gift of life itself. How many more sunrises will it take before you allow yourself to celebrate the miracle of you?
You have lots to give and lots to share.
All lack, limitation, negativity, scarcity are the delusions you entertain to hide your own glory from yourself. And as you suffer through these things, you bring them into physical actuality. Free your energy, your mind, your life from these parasites of thought.
Instead, use your power and get everything you want when you want it. How? By learning how to love, by learning how to sing, by learning how to be yourself fully and completely, without inhibition.
Release yourself from the burden of what might have been. Allow the future to be as it will. Everything you want is here right now. What can be a greater blessing than life itself. To be, just to be, is glory itself. Take this moment to contemplate your own unique expression. Take the next one to celebrate it forever.
Yes, just be. Just be whoever you are. Just be yourself. And celebrate! For the rest of your days.
Not a moment can be grasped and held; not a step can be retraced. As you dance through your dramas of life, remember only this singular truth: you are the magnificence of all life.
Everything that exists filters itself through your senses. Can you celebrate the delicious moment? Or will it pass away as you evoke the hell of your sorrows and damn the cheerful lightness of the air all around you?
Give yourself the gift, before another moment has slipped away.
What is the gift?
The gift is you, my friend; just YOU. For never ever again in all of time and space will there ever be another even remotely like you.
May you be well and happy.
Everything is the way it is. Let yourself see it as it is. Free yourself from the delusions of despair.
You cannot save the world from it's nightmares, but you can save yourself; and in doing this, you will salvage the world; for it will see your clear light and hear your clear call.
What if you don't have everything you need right now? Who you are is pure gold. You are the incarnation of abundance. It is right here where you are. Each part of your body is sacred, a miracle of life. And your mind is the greatest thing ever known among all living forms in the history of creation.
When you walk, you grace the earth itself with your presence. Who are you is the gift of life itself. How many more sunrises will it take before you allow yourself to celebrate the miracle of you?
You have lots to give and lots to share.
All lack, limitation, negativity, scarcity are the delusions you entertain to hide your own glory from yourself. And as you suffer through these things, you bring them into physical actuality. Free your energy, your mind, your life from these parasites of thought.
Instead, use your power and get everything you want when you want it. How? By learning how to love, by learning how to sing, by learning how to be yourself fully and completely, without inhibition.
Release yourself from the burden of what might have been. Allow the future to be as it will. Everything you want is here right now. What can be a greater blessing than life itself. To be, just to be, is glory itself. Take this moment to contemplate your own unique expression. Take the next one to celebrate it forever.
Yes, just be. Just be whoever you are. Just be yourself. And celebrate! For the rest of your days.
Not a moment can be grasped and held; not a step can be retraced. As you dance through your dramas of life, remember only this singular truth: you are the magnificence of all life.
Everything that exists filters itself through your senses. Can you celebrate the delicious moment? Or will it pass away as you evoke the hell of your sorrows and damn the cheerful lightness of the air all around you?
Give yourself the gift, before another moment has slipped away.
What is the gift?
The gift is you, my friend; just YOU. For never ever again in all of time and space will there ever be another even remotely like you.
May you be well and happy.
Love Is The Answer To Happiness
The thesis of this discourse is this: love is the answer to happiness.
Love, the most powerful force in creation, is also the most misunderstood.
It is misunderstood because of the context with which it arises: that of relationship. All relationships imply love, either an offering of it or a withdrawal of it. Thus, our understanding of love is conditioned by varying degrees of attachment and aversion. And because of this, there is an element of self-protection that is projected outwardly and becomes control.
Thus, our understanding of love is completely contaminated by all the associations that arise from it.
So what we have then is conditional love; love that is allowed if certain conditions are met.
In truth, none of this is really love, just as a delicious meal, sprinkled with some mud cannot be said to be appetizing any longer.
Love, real love, is acceptance. That is all it is. Simply accepting what is. From that acceptance flows giving and caring, nurturing and compassion.
When you see a beautiful flower wet with dew, you feel an out-flowing force from your heart. This emotion is love. It is a complete acceptance of the flower. You may call it beauty or appreciation, but it is really love.
A mother, seeing her child sleeping peacefully, feels love. This is a pure acceptance of the being of the other. Of course, when the child is awake, shouting, crying, and arguing, expressing it's being in a radical way, breaking some social convention of one sort or another, the mother's love is still there, but now it is mixed up with other emotions, anger, confusion, embarrassment. Thus, control is now exerted. A tension visits the relationship and the love that is implied in it is clouded over, at the heart of which are various degrees of non-acceptance.
When the love is uninterrupted, as in the still flower or the sleeping child, it is pure. It is spontaneous. When conditions are imposed, the love becomes something else, not quite definable, but definitely not as spontaneous, pure, and free.
What made Mother Teresa a lover of life? She accepted what was before her. Poverty, disease, and distressing situations. Her love then moved her to give, and the giving was to provide relief to the other.
Love that has conditions, that exerts control to bring the other into alignment with one's belief systems is not real love. There may be elements of love in it, but it is tarnished with some desire for egoic gain. The other must love back. The other must be appreciative. The other must return something to us.
Philosophers, poets, and spiritual people have long believed that love is the central force that holds the universe together. The physical union of love creates children. The emotional union of love creates families and nations. The intellectual union of love creates ideas, discoveries, and inventions. Philosophically, one can even say that the union of subatomic elements in relationship to each other or of planetary bodies in relationship to each other is part of that harmonious, blending, accepting energy that we call love.
Love does not necessarily mean approval. One cannot truly love something despicable. But love does mean acceptance. And once there is acceptance, there is understanding and insight, and if change is necessary for well-being, it is done with wisdom, not reactive emotion.
If human beings were committed to studying love and applying it, the entire planet would change rapidly, and instead of our continued creation of chaos, harmony and cooperation would occur. All sorts of wonderful prospering circumstances for the well-being of all life would emerge.
But as a species, we associate contention with intelligence and survival, and as long as we prefer exclusion to inclusion, we will continue to wreck our own lives and the world in general with our confused thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
When we begin an inquiry into love, then the journey to right living can be said to begin. What is right living? That which provides well-being for self and other. When well-being is high, there is a feeling of safety and acceptance, which creates happiness, a sense that all is well, good, and true and that we need not guard against sorrow.
The summum bonum of all life is happiness. It is the ultimate motive, the end of all striving. Yet this happiness does not come uninvited. It feels invited when love is present.
Love, the most powerful force in creation, is also the most misunderstood.
It is misunderstood because of the context with which it arises: that of relationship. All relationships imply love, either an offering of it or a withdrawal of it. Thus, our understanding of love is conditioned by varying degrees of attachment and aversion. And because of this, there is an element of self-protection that is projected outwardly and becomes control.
Thus, our understanding of love is completely contaminated by all the associations that arise from it.
So what we have then is conditional love; love that is allowed if certain conditions are met.
In truth, none of this is really love, just as a delicious meal, sprinkled with some mud cannot be said to be appetizing any longer.
Love, real love, is acceptance. That is all it is. Simply accepting what is. From that acceptance flows giving and caring, nurturing and compassion.
When you see a beautiful flower wet with dew, you feel an out-flowing force from your heart. This emotion is love. It is a complete acceptance of the flower. You may call it beauty or appreciation, but it is really love.
A mother, seeing her child sleeping peacefully, feels love. This is a pure acceptance of the being of the other. Of course, when the child is awake, shouting, crying, and arguing, expressing it's being in a radical way, breaking some social convention of one sort or another, the mother's love is still there, but now it is mixed up with other emotions, anger, confusion, embarrassment. Thus, control is now exerted. A tension visits the relationship and the love that is implied in it is clouded over, at the heart of which are various degrees of non-acceptance.
When the love is uninterrupted, as in the still flower or the sleeping child, it is pure. It is spontaneous. When conditions are imposed, the love becomes something else, not quite definable, but definitely not as spontaneous, pure, and free.
What made Mother Teresa a lover of life? She accepted what was before her. Poverty, disease, and distressing situations. Her love then moved her to give, and the giving was to provide relief to the other.
Love that has conditions, that exerts control to bring the other into alignment with one's belief systems is not real love. There may be elements of love in it, but it is tarnished with some desire for egoic gain. The other must love back. The other must be appreciative. The other must return something to us.
Philosophers, poets, and spiritual people have long believed that love is the central force that holds the universe together. The physical union of love creates children. The emotional union of love creates families and nations. The intellectual union of love creates ideas, discoveries, and inventions. Philosophically, one can even say that the union of subatomic elements in relationship to each other or of planetary bodies in relationship to each other is part of that harmonious, blending, accepting energy that we call love.
Love does not necessarily mean approval. One cannot truly love something despicable. But love does mean acceptance. And once there is acceptance, there is understanding and insight, and if change is necessary for well-being, it is done with wisdom, not reactive emotion.
If human beings were committed to studying love and applying it, the entire planet would change rapidly, and instead of our continued creation of chaos, harmony and cooperation would occur. All sorts of wonderful prospering circumstances for the well-being of all life would emerge.
But as a species, we associate contention with intelligence and survival, and as long as we prefer exclusion to inclusion, we will continue to wreck our own lives and the world in general with our confused thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
When we begin an inquiry into love, then the journey to right living can be said to begin. What is right living? That which provides well-being for self and other. When well-being is high, there is a feeling of safety and acceptance, which creates happiness, a sense that all is well, good, and true and that we need not guard against sorrow.
The summum bonum of all life is happiness. It is the ultimate motive, the end of all striving. Yet this happiness does not come uninvited. It feels invited when love is present.
For Your Eyes Only
Imagine what would happen if you made a decision not to be unhappy anymore.
Yes, that's right. Give it up. Quit being unhappy. Sure there are plenty of reasons to be unhappy--the unpaid bills, the ache in your shoulders, and your difficult parents, spouse, children, friends, and so on.
In fact, if you really focus on it, the earth has always been a miserable place and if you read the newspapers it appears to be falling apart at the seams even faster than ever before.
There are plenty of reasons to be unhappy. The sensory evidence just keeps piling up.
On the other hand, there is only one reason to be happy. You're alive!
Do you understand what a miracle and wonder that happens to be? No one on this entire planet, ever, has been you. Only you are you. You have a total exclusive on this total immersion movie called life.
Expand this idea a little. The entire universe exists for you only. It only exists through your eyes. If you were to completely blink out of existence, it really would not matter much whether the universe still existed or not because there would be no you to appreciate it.
This means that the only reason the sun shines is so that it can settle on your skin, that rain falls only to make the earth green and beautiful for you, and that mountains and rivers and oceans exist in case you might see them.
True, for everyone else, it exists only for them, too. But what of it? It does not detract from your own exclusive experience.
Only you breathe for you, see for you, hear for you, talk for you. Just think for a moment of the sensory pleasure of being alive. All of this grandeur--just for YOU! Focus on your breath for a moment, and notice how delicious is that experience. You did nothing to deserve that breath or the air around you, yet here it is, offering itself freely to you.
Unhappiness is such a waste of life. It seems to me now that unhappiness is just a bad habit, an expression of ingratitude.
Every day life is blessing you with awareness and all everyone appears to do is grumble, grumble, grumble. Things will never be perfect. Life is short. If you don't enjoy it now, chances are it won't get any better tomorrow. Besides, it's not going to last long anyway.
Life is about love, laughter, and happiness. That's all. Not a complicated concept.
If people lack things, it is because their bad attitude brings them scarcity.
Imagine, for a moment, if instead of crumbling under every adversity, and drowning in uncertainty, you were to remain mindful. Imagine if you had a taste for the adventure that is your life. Imagine if you stopped taking everything so very seriously.
In the cosmic scheme of things, decades pass in the blink of an eye. Before you know it, the show will be over. All your suffering will cease. But before that happens, you still have a chance to grab some happiness.
Who knows, your happiness might even be contagious, and instead of spreading your irritation at the imperfection of all created things, you can just as easily start blessing others with the sunshine of your presence.
If you focus on unhappy events, either in your past or in the world at large, you will only dig yourself deeper into misery. Yet, with just a little effort, you can notice the bird that hops on a branch and think that this little scene was enacted just for you.
Nobody is going to start taking pleasure in life for you. It really is up to you to start connecting with the joy of your own existence and to the magical promise of your own gifts of love, laughter, and song.
It means much to be happy. Even for a day. And it is only today, every day.
Yes, that's right. Give it up. Quit being unhappy. Sure there are plenty of reasons to be unhappy--the unpaid bills, the ache in your shoulders, and your difficult parents, spouse, children, friends, and so on.
In fact, if you really focus on it, the earth has always been a miserable place and if you read the newspapers it appears to be falling apart at the seams even faster than ever before.
There are plenty of reasons to be unhappy. The sensory evidence just keeps piling up.
On the other hand, there is only one reason to be happy. You're alive!
Do you understand what a miracle and wonder that happens to be? No one on this entire planet, ever, has been you. Only you are you. You have a total exclusive on this total immersion movie called life.
Expand this idea a little. The entire universe exists for you only. It only exists through your eyes. If you were to completely blink out of existence, it really would not matter much whether the universe still existed or not because there would be no you to appreciate it.
This means that the only reason the sun shines is so that it can settle on your skin, that rain falls only to make the earth green and beautiful for you, and that mountains and rivers and oceans exist in case you might see them.
True, for everyone else, it exists only for them, too. But what of it? It does not detract from your own exclusive experience.
Only you breathe for you, see for you, hear for you, talk for you. Just think for a moment of the sensory pleasure of being alive. All of this grandeur--just for YOU! Focus on your breath for a moment, and notice how delicious is that experience. You did nothing to deserve that breath or the air around you, yet here it is, offering itself freely to you.
Unhappiness is such a waste of life. It seems to me now that unhappiness is just a bad habit, an expression of ingratitude.
Every day life is blessing you with awareness and all everyone appears to do is grumble, grumble, grumble. Things will never be perfect. Life is short. If you don't enjoy it now, chances are it won't get any better tomorrow. Besides, it's not going to last long anyway.
Life is about love, laughter, and happiness. That's all. Not a complicated concept.
If people lack things, it is because their bad attitude brings them scarcity.
Imagine, for a moment, if instead of crumbling under every adversity, and drowning in uncertainty, you were to remain mindful. Imagine if you had a taste for the adventure that is your life. Imagine if you stopped taking everything so very seriously.
In the cosmic scheme of things, decades pass in the blink of an eye. Before you know it, the show will be over. All your suffering will cease. But before that happens, you still have a chance to grab some happiness.
Who knows, your happiness might even be contagious, and instead of spreading your irritation at the imperfection of all created things, you can just as easily start blessing others with the sunshine of your presence.
If you focus on unhappy events, either in your past or in the world at large, you will only dig yourself deeper into misery. Yet, with just a little effort, you can notice the bird that hops on a branch and think that this little scene was enacted just for you.
Nobody is going to start taking pleasure in life for you. It really is up to you to start connecting with the joy of your own existence and to the magical promise of your own gifts of love, laughter, and song.
It means much to be happy. Even for a day. And it is only today, every day.
Why You Are The Light Of The World
You are awesome. You are the light of the world. And in this brief essay, I will prove it to you.
Your body is a superb machine whose functional details keep scientists in a state of awe and wonder. They estimate that your body has enough power to run a whole city for a week.
Your mind is a computer that has billions of interconnected neurons. You may have enough raw brain power to run a galaxy.
Yet there is something even more amazing about you. You are self-aware, the creator of yourself, and your own creation. You are more than a person, much more. You are a consciousness whose only limit is your own self-belief and imagination.
And, whether you admit it or not, you are here on this planet to do something great with all this raw power and potentiality. You are a creator and you are in a place where creation is necessary. In fact, your internal guidance system, your emotions, will tell you whether you are on track or off track. If you are happy, you are doing something creative and feel fulfilled. If you are unhappy, you are conforming to a reality that does not bring out the best in you.
On the surface of things, it may seem that you have little free-will and are limited in both creativity and imagination. It may also seem that you are pressed in and coerced to do things by stronger forces. And it may also seem that you are different from others, living in a separate objective world of your own.
Yet the study of quantum mechanics shows that at a fundamental level everything is only energy and that this idea of separation is really some kind of hallucination we all share in common because our senses are not subtle enough to observe the fluid interconnection between all things.
Furthermore, a radical subjectivity informs your entire experience of life. That is, you can never not be yourself, and even when you name something as objective, it is a statement that arises from your own subjectivity.
Finally, you are nothing but your own expression of choices, which you bring into existence through creativity and imagination.
This life that you live is the clay that you shape. You are the geometer, organizer, and designer of your life.
As Dr. Joe Vitale said in the movie, The Secret, "You are the Michelangelo of your own life. The David you are sculpting is YOU."
What you think and feel on a moment by moment basis influences all of life because everything about you has some kind of influence.
This is a big concept.
Here is how to understand it.
Think of a row of dominoes leaning up against other dominoes, when there is a change in movement in one, it affects all the other dominoes.
Here is another way to understand it.
Scientists estimate that the flapping of the wings of a butterfly can affect the air currents in a way that gradually magnifies over a distance until it causes weather changes
Of course, all this is very, very subtle. You will never know whether your bad mood affects an international crisis in a war-prone area or whether your good mood creates an act of kindness in a city far away from you.
It has been said that the vibrations of someone with deep wisdom can affect all of humanity. This is easier to understand. After all the history of ideas shows that all that is necessary to influence billions of people throughout time is the ideas of a few people.
What all this means is that beneath the apparent separation between human beings, we are all one; and beneath the apparent lack of power we display, we hide a mighty power.
What you say, think, and do matters. Not only to you, but to everyone. Sometimes it is obvious how your influence spreads. But most often it is subtle, very subtle, hardly noticeable to you, like the flapping of the wings of a butterfly.
Your body is a superb machine whose functional details keep scientists in a state of awe and wonder. They estimate that your body has enough power to run a whole city for a week.
Your mind is a computer that has billions of interconnected neurons. You may have enough raw brain power to run a galaxy.
Yet there is something even more amazing about you. You are self-aware, the creator of yourself, and your own creation. You are more than a person, much more. You are a consciousness whose only limit is your own self-belief and imagination.
And, whether you admit it or not, you are here on this planet to do something great with all this raw power and potentiality. You are a creator and you are in a place where creation is necessary. In fact, your internal guidance system, your emotions, will tell you whether you are on track or off track. If you are happy, you are doing something creative and feel fulfilled. If you are unhappy, you are conforming to a reality that does not bring out the best in you.
On the surface of things, it may seem that you have little free-will and are limited in both creativity and imagination. It may also seem that you are pressed in and coerced to do things by stronger forces. And it may also seem that you are different from others, living in a separate objective world of your own.
Yet the study of quantum mechanics shows that at a fundamental level everything is only energy and that this idea of separation is really some kind of hallucination we all share in common because our senses are not subtle enough to observe the fluid interconnection between all things.
Furthermore, a radical subjectivity informs your entire experience of life. That is, you can never not be yourself, and even when you name something as objective, it is a statement that arises from your own subjectivity.
Finally, you are nothing but your own expression of choices, which you bring into existence through creativity and imagination.
This life that you live is the clay that you shape. You are the geometer, organizer, and designer of your life.
As Dr. Joe Vitale said in the movie, The Secret, "You are the Michelangelo of your own life. The David you are sculpting is YOU."
What you think and feel on a moment by moment basis influences all of life because everything about you has some kind of influence.
This is a big concept.
Here is how to understand it.
Think of a row of dominoes leaning up against other dominoes, when there is a change in movement in one, it affects all the other dominoes.
Here is another way to understand it.
Scientists estimate that the flapping of the wings of a butterfly can affect the air currents in a way that gradually magnifies over a distance until it causes weather changes
Of course, all this is very, very subtle. You will never know whether your bad mood affects an international crisis in a war-prone area or whether your good mood creates an act of kindness in a city far away from you.
It has been said that the vibrations of someone with deep wisdom can affect all of humanity. This is easier to understand. After all the history of ideas shows that all that is necessary to influence billions of people throughout time is the ideas of a few people.
What all this means is that beneath the apparent separation between human beings, we are all one; and beneath the apparent lack of power we display, we hide a mighty power.
What you say, think, and do matters. Not only to you, but to everyone. Sometimes it is obvious how your influence spreads. But most often it is subtle, very subtle, hardly noticeable to you, like the flapping of the wings of a butterfly.
elp Always, Hurt Never
Revenge, the desire to hurt others who have hurt us, only bears bitter fruit. It hurts those whom we have inflicted our wrath upon. And it hurts us, because no single act in the universe goes unrewarded. From that singular act, our own consciousness is wounded by the expression of our animalism.
Nations pride themselves on the swiftness of their retribution but inevitably collapse in on themselves because the seeds of discontent that they sow, hurts all of life. Rome, the greatest civilization that the world had ever known, built on the finest arts and sciences known to the ancient world, the epitome of legal and architectural order, collapsed from within, destroyed by its own impulse to use its mighty force to strike out and subdue.
Today our world is dying because of this impulse to strike out.
We are destroying each other at an alarming rate, both individually and collectively.
And even the earth itself, is collapsing at a faster rate than we can repair. Scientists now estimate that by the year 2050, we will have exhausted the earth of all its natural resources.
The science that we celebrate, the genius of our efforts, are wasted on destructive uses. Instead of using the power of the nucleus to build great civilizations we are busy using it to stockade bombs.
Billions of dollars that could be used to heal the broken places on our planet are used to send people to horrific deaths.
When we seek to hurt life, we hurt ourselves, for we are life.
Revenge it is said is a dish best served cold; but whether it is served with cold deliberation or hot reaction, it is a dish in whose very preparation we imbue a poison that will return to destroy us.
The greatest illusion is this: that we can hurt and not be hurt, that we can wound another and remain unscathed. When we inflict harm upon another, we inflict harm upon ourselves. What goes around comes around. A rudimentary study of history will prove this.
When we love, we reach out to align with life, to nurture and make others better, and in that act, we redeem ourselves from our own past follies.
This love is a precious act. It is our extension of spiritual power in the world. It is a moment of sympathy and support that we have for life. When you bend down and help a child tie its shoelaces, you are tying up all the knots of the world. When you listen in silence and understand another's intention, you are spreading the meme of empathy through all of time and space, for thoughts are cosmic waves that do not know any barriers.
As we extend love to others, it comes back to us.
Yet we cannot love others unless we love ourselves as well.
We cannot live without making mistakes of judgment and do things that we will later regret, because we are na?ve and do foolish things out of that naivety. But we do grow, and looking back at the harm we have invoked, we feel grief. Our act of love, then, is to forgive ourselves. Yet instead of taking this simple act, we damn ourselves repeatedly, and in this way, we still hurt life, because we are life.
When we feel the urge to strike out, we must remember how it feels to have the wound inflicted upon our own flesh, because everything returns to the author of a deed.
Help always, hurt never. Do this and your life will be a blessing to the world and you must reap the harvest from what you have sown.
Nations pride themselves on the swiftness of their retribution but inevitably collapse in on themselves because the seeds of discontent that they sow, hurts all of life. Rome, the greatest civilization that the world had ever known, built on the finest arts and sciences known to the ancient world, the epitome of legal and architectural order, collapsed from within, destroyed by its own impulse to use its mighty force to strike out and subdue.
Today our world is dying because of this impulse to strike out.
We are destroying each other at an alarming rate, both individually and collectively.
And even the earth itself, is collapsing at a faster rate than we can repair. Scientists now estimate that by the year 2050, we will have exhausted the earth of all its natural resources.
The science that we celebrate, the genius of our efforts, are wasted on destructive uses. Instead of using the power of the nucleus to build great civilizations we are busy using it to stockade bombs.
Billions of dollars that could be used to heal the broken places on our planet are used to send people to horrific deaths.
When we seek to hurt life, we hurt ourselves, for we are life.
Revenge it is said is a dish best served cold; but whether it is served with cold deliberation or hot reaction, it is a dish in whose very preparation we imbue a poison that will return to destroy us.
The greatest illusion is this: that we can hurt and not be hurt, that we can wound another and remain unscathed. When we inflict harm upon another, we inflict harm upon ourselves. What goes around comes around. A rudimentary study of history will prove this.
When we love, we reach out to align with life, to nurture and make others better, and in that act, we redeem ourselves from our own past follies.
This love is a precious act. It is our extension of spiritual power in the world. It is a moment of sympathy and support that we have for life. When you bend down and help a child tie its shoelaces, you are tying up all the knots of the world. When you listen in silence and understand another's intention, you are spreading the meme of empathy through all of time and space, for thoughts are cosmic waves that do not know any barriers.
As we extend love to others, it comes back to us.
Yet we cannot love others unless we love ourselves as well.
We cannot live without making mistakes of judgment and do things that we will later regret, because we are na?ve and do foolish things out of that naivety. But we do grow, and looking back at the harm we have invoked, we feel grief. Our act of love, then, is to forgive ourselves. Yet instead of taking this simple act, we damn ourselves repeatedly, and in this way, we still hurt life, because we are life.
When we feel the urge to strike out, we must remember how it feels to have the wound inflicted upon our own flesh, because everything returns to the author of a deed.
Help always, hurt never. Do this and your life will be a blessing to the world and you must reap the harvest from what you have sown.
What is the Connection Between God and Man?
"What is the connection between God and man? If God is unseen, how can a connection be established between man and something unseen? How can man see the connection? Is the one who sees the connection a man, and is one who does not see the connection also a man? How does the connection come?" A man asked these questions of a Sufi gnani.
The gnani replied, "True indeed. Not everything we see or believe in is God, and not everyone we see is a man. But it is easy for a true man to see the connection between God and man.
"God is beyond mind, desire, and thought. From a place beyond mind, desire, and thought, one who acts with the qualities of God, who does the duty of God, who hands over to Him the responsibility for the diseases of hunger, illness, old age, and death, one who does duty without selfishness and has compassion--he is in the state in which God exists. He is a man, an insan. He is God. In that state he can see the connection between man and God, which is made up of the qualities and actions of God.
"When form is created, the ray of the power of God comes into each form. Thus a connection exists between the power known as God and the ray known as the soul. That ray existed within Him in anathi, the dark time before the beginning. The bodies that were formed with the ray of Gods power inside them will live with that connection.
"There are six kinds of lives. One of them, man, has a connection to God. Man had that connection in anathi, and he maintains it even after he leaves anathi. Just as a fish dies when it is taken out of water, the ray of the soul will die if its connection to Gods power is broken.
"Gods power exists for all time. But if man forgets his connection to it and establishes a connection to the five elements, to earth, fire, water, air, and ether, he will live and die with a connection to hell.
"One who maintains the connection to God is a man, while those who prefer the connection to the elements are pulled by those shakthis, their forces and energies, and disappear into the karma of animals। They become subject to millions of births and to hell. One who is connected to God is pulled by that power and grace and will disappear in God.
by WisdomArticles
The gnani replied, "True indeed. Not everything we see or believe in is God, and not everyone we see is a man. But it is easy for a true man to see the connection between God and man.
"God is beyond mind, desire, and thought. From a place beyond mind, desire, and thought, one who acts with the qualities of God, who does the duty of God, who hands over to Him the responsibility for the diseases of hunger, illness, old age, and death, one who does duty without selfishness and has compassion--he is in the state in which God exists. He is a man, an insan. He is God. In that state he can see the connection between man and God, which is made up of the qualities and actions of God.
"When form is created, the ray of the power of God comes into each form. Thus a connection exists between the power known as God and the ray known as the soul. That ray existed within Him in anathi, the dark time before the beginning. The bodies that were formed with the ray of Gods power inside them will live with that connection.
"There are six kinds of lives. One of them, man, has a connection to God. Man had that connection in anathi, and he maintains it even after he leaves anathi. Just as a fish dies when it is taken out of water, the ray of the soul will die if its connection to Gods power is broken.
"Gods power exists for all time. But if man forgets his connection to it and establishes a connection to the five elements, to earth, fire, water, air, and ether, he will live and die with a connection to hell.
"One who maintains the connection to God is a man, while those who prefer the connection to the elements are pulled by those shakthis, their forces and energies, and disappear into the karma of animals। They become subject to millions of births and to hell. One who is connected to God is pulled by that power and grace and will disappear in God.
by WisdomArticles
Praying For Protection
Oh Lord I pray to you, I cry out to you with a great urgency. Hear me Lord as I pray. I lift up my hands in worship. May my prayers come before you as a sacrifice, may my prayers be acceptable before you.
Help me Lord to only speak well of everyone and to keep my mouth on guard and not to gossip. Let evil ways not tempt me Lord nor may I be drawn to do wicked things. Let me not keep company with ungodly people and grant me grace and love not to offend anyone.
Bring to me godly people who will keep me accountable and may I accept this as a blessing. Advice from a godly person I will not reject.
My prayers today I ask to be kept safe from the evil of this dark world and of the spiritual world. May those who seek to do me harm be blessed by you and may they in their blessing forget about me.
Let my eye look to you for everything Lord. Keep me safe and may I shelter in your protection. Allow me to pass safely through the troubles of this world and keep me from harm. To you Lord God be the glory and majesty my father and my God.
Many people slander you my God forgive them in their folly. Many claim to do good but are corrupt. As you look from heaven Lord to seek those who look for you, strengthen us against the corruptions of this world. Living in the world yet keeping us untainted from the evils of the world.
Lord Jesus society is turning away from you - there is corruption everywhere - few look for you my Lord.
People are ambitious grasping for money and worldly success, willing to destroy one another for mere possessions. No one looks to you.
Your people are attacked; protect us Lord through these times of trails and tribulations. Let us, your people, not worry for we have you Lord God.
In you Lord we have great fortunes. In you Lord we will live eternal in your glorious presence. Lord empower us in this life to do your will and to proclaim to the world your son Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
There is so much sin in the world yet no one cares to seek forgiveness. And Lord how many sins do I need to repent of! It is my sin of passion that I must seek forgiveness.
The shame and horror of this is an evil in my life.
Now I decide not to let my passions take hold of me and I come to you to give me strength to accomplish this. Many I see give into their passions and are overcome by them giving many excuses for their ways and justifying their sin as not sin at all.
Lord God help me to sing your praises and to share in the inexpressible joy of a heart trusting in you alone.
Help my stubbornness because I don't always praise you as I should. Yet my soul rests in your goodness and loving-kindness.
Lord help me in my backsliding, my resistance my forgetfulness of you my Lord and God. Evil corruptions urge me to stand in opposition to you.
Help me to proclaim your goodness with a submissive heart. May I look inwardly and ask, am I truly born again, is my spirit as a child in my approach to you, are my wants and needs a stumbling block to others, are my joys fruit of faith,
does my confidence in Christ spring from love, and does it purify my soul.
Let you love shine in my prayer and in my public life, wrap my heart in your love, hold me Lord and never let me go.
There is so much darkness still in me, scourge this out and live in me and cause me to long for perfect holiness.
Help me to proclaim your goodness with a submissive heart.
Help me Lord to only speak well of everyone and to keep my mouth on guard and not to gossip. Let evil ways not tempt me Lord nor may I be drawn to do wicked things. Let me not keep company with ungodly people and grant me grace and love not to offend anyone.
Bring to me godly people who will keep me accountable and may I accept this as a blessing. Advice from a godly person I will not reject.
My prayers today I ask to be kept safe from the evil of this dark world and of the spiritual world. May those who seek to do me harm be blessed by you and may they in their blessing forget about me.
Let my eye look to you for everything Lord. Keep me safe and may I shelter in your protection. Allow me to pass safely through the troubles of this world and keep me from harm. To you Lord God be the glory and majesty my father and my God.
Many people slander you my God forgive them in their folly. Many claim to do good but are corrupt. As you look from heaven Lord to seek those who look for you, strengthen us against the corruptions of this world. Living in the world yet keeping us untainted from the evils of the world.
Lord Jesus society is turning away from you - there is corruption everywhere - few look for you my Lord.
People are ambitious grasping for money and worldly success, willing to destroy one another for mere possessions. No one looks to you.
Your people are attacked; protect us Lord through these times of trails and tribulations. Let us, your people, not worry for we have you Lord God.
In you Lord we have great fortunes. In you Lord we will live eternal in your glorious presence. Lord empower us in this life to do your will and to proclaim to the world your son Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
There is so much sin in the world yet no one cares to seek forgiveness. And Lord how many sins do I need to repent of! It is my sin of passion that I must seek forgiveness.
The shame and horror of this is an evil in my life.
Now I decide not to let my passions take hold of me and I come to you to give me strength to accomplish this. Many I see give into their passions and are overcome by them giving many excuses for their ways and justifying their sin as not sin at all.
Lord God help me to sing your praises and to share in the inexpressible joy of a heart trusting in you alone.
Help my stubbornness because I don't always praise you as I should. Yet my soul rests in your goodness and loving-kindness.
Lord help me in my backsliding, my resistance my forgetfulness of you my Lord and God. Evil corruptions urge me to stand in opposition to you.
Help me to proclaim your goodness with a submissive heart. May I look inwardly and ask, am I truly born again, is my spirit as a child in my approach to you, are my wants and needs a stumbling block to others, are my joys fruit of faith,
does my confidence in Christ spring from love, and does it purify my soul.
Let you love shine in my prayer and in my public life, wrap my heart in your love, hold me Lord and never let me go.
There is so much darkness still in me, scourge this out and live in me and cause me to long for perfect holiness.
Help me to proclaim your goodness with a submissive heart.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa
Sri Ramkrishna was born on 18.02.1836 in Kamarpukur, Hoogli of Khudiram Chattopadhay and Chandramoni Devi. He was the 4th child of his parents, after Ramkumar, Katyayani, and Rameswar and a sister, Sarbamangala. Nicknamed as Gadadhar he was a very reckless but god fearing boy since childhood, and was deeply devoted to serve the mother goddess Kali from a young age. He was inspired by the leelas of Lord Krishna and tried to imitate his feats. As a child he was matured for his age and earned the love of all. He had an unusual memory interested in Hindu mythology.
Once while playing the part of Shiva in the plays performed during Shivaratri, he attained Vhava Samadhi. His elder brother Ramkumar took him to Dakhineswar to assist him in his works as a priest in the temple. In 1855 Rani Rashmoni of Janbajar offered him the job of the priest of the Goddess Kali at Dakkhineshwar Temple. Onlookers would crowd to see Ramkrishna performing puja as they wanted to see the love and devotion with which it was performed. At the age of 23, May 1859, he married Saradamoni of Jairambati, whom he thought would be his ideal life companion. Soon after, the urge of finding the truth of life made him take sannyas under the sage Totapuri who gave him the sobriquet, Paramhansa.
His quest for truth continued with Bhairavi Ma and sages in other religion. Though he attained Bhava Samadhi very often, he was inclined to know the truth about human existence. He started Adyitya Sadhana and realised god exist in every form of life. In Jan 17, 1868, he stared for a Tirthayatra along with Mathur Babu and his nephew Hridoy. He visited places like Deoghar, Varanasi and Vrindavan. He even worshipped Saradamoni in the same way he worshipped the mother goddess which was known as Shorshi puja.. He preached universal brotherhood, and soon stalwarts like Kesab Sen, Shibnath Sastri, Girish Ghosh and Narendranath Datta (later Swami Vivekananda) became his disciples.
He developed a strange theological relation with Narendranath and soon moulded him in his own way. He taught Naren the truth of life by letting him see a glimpse of the holy spirit. He taught Naren the truth of life by letting him see a glimpse of the holy spirit. It was Vivekananda in later days, who held high the teachings of Sri Ramakishna to the world by forming the Belur Math. In Jan 1st, 1886 in Kashipur Garden an ailing Ramkrishna touched some of his disciples. Those who were touched felt an unearthly feeling never felt before. While some went speechless for a short while, others moved into a state of Samadhi. This incident is remembered by his disciples as Thakur taking the form of a Kalpataru. The great preacher passed away in 16th August, 1886.
Swami Vivekananda
(1863-1902)
Narendranath Dutt or Swami Vivekananda was a great social reformer and Indian nationalist of the 19th century. Vivekananda was the disciple of the great social reformer, Ramakrishna Paramahansa. After his master's death, Vivekananda organized the Ramakrishna Mission for the upliftment of the poor folk whom he called the 'Daridra Narayan.'
The following speech was delivered by Vivekananda at the Parliament of world religions on 11 September, 1893. In those times not many people knew about India and its great religious heritage. The presence of Swamiji was greeted with much enthusiasm and helped spread awareness about the religious tradition in our country.
AT THE PARLIAMENT OF WORLD RELIGIONS
September 11, 1893
Sisters and Brothers of America,
It fills my heart with joy unspeakable to rise in response to the warm and cordial welcome, which you have given us. I thank you in the name of the most ancient order of monks in the world; I thank you in the name of the mother of religions; and I thank you in the name of millions and millions of Hindu people of all classes and sects.
My thanks, also, to some of the speakers on this platform who, referring to the delegates from the Orient, have told you that these men from far-off nations may well claim the honour of bearing to different lands the idea of toleration.
I am proud to belong to a religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true. I am proud to belong to a nation, which has sheltered the persecuted, and the refugees of all religions and all nations of the earth.
I am proud to tell you that we have gathered in our bosom the purest remnant of the Israelites, who came to Southern India and took refuge with us in the very year in which their holy temple was shattered to pieces by Roman tyranny. I am proud to belong to the religion, which has sheltered and is still fostering the remnant of the grand Zoroastrian nation.
I will quote to you, brethren, a few lines from a hymn which I remember to have repeated from my earliest boyhood, which is every day repeated by millions of human beings: "As the different streams having their sources in different places all mingle their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different paths which men take through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee."
The present convention, which is one of the most august assemblies ever held, is in itself a, vindication, a declaration to the world of the wonderful doctrine preached in the Gita: "Whosoever comes to Me, through whatsoever form, I reach him; all men are struggling through paths which in the end lead to me."
Sectarianism, bigotry, and its horrible descendant, fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth. They have filled the earth with violence, drenched it often and often with human blood, destroyed civilization and sent whole nations to despair. Had it not been for these horrible demons, human society would be far more advanced than it is now. But their time is come; and I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honour of this convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal.
My Dream Comes True
Om Sai Ram, I went to shirdi for the first time way back in 1980 when I was a kid। The memories are still fresh in my mind. Shirdi was different from what it is today. It was very easy to get Baba's darshan those days. Hence we used to visit the mandir 4-5 times a day.In September 2007 I had a strange dream. I dreamt of myself riding a bicycle on a highway. I was dragging the bike on the road pondering if God was present and if so would I be able to see Him . A fakir appeared from behind me and asked me to for bhiksha. I handed some coins to him. He then turned towards a house on the left side of the road and I immediately followed him.
The fakir and I entered the house that was filled with Shirdi Sai Baba's photos. I moved from one room to another to see some more photos when a voice came from behind " Are you Rakesh?". I was shocked and went back to the first room and replied in the affirmation. There was a saintly man over there who pulled a photo which was under a garland on Sai Baba's photo.The photo was a childhood picture of myself. The saintly person said “ He had kept you in his heart since you were a child". There were also two small girls. The main door of the house had the name 'Kodama Raju' written on it with which the dream came to an end.
I found the strangeness of my strange dream come true. Baba's ways are inscrutable!
My wife and I went on a trip to Mysore after about ten days of the strange dream that I had. We decided to use my bike as the mode of transportation. In the course of our trip we visited Sri Rangapatna which was about fifteen kilometers ahead of Mysore. In Sri Ranga Patna, we visited an orphanage run by Sathya Sai Baba trust. The orphanage is known to be famous for the miracles of Sai. We visited the mandir in the orphanage where I found loads of vibhuti formation on Sai Baba's photos and also the continuous flow of nectar from Baba's amulet. The mandir was actually the conversion of two rooms for the purpose of worship with a lot of Baba's photos.A small girl then approached us and handed some nectar as prasad which wasamazingly tasty. We then proceeded with our journey to Mysore. We also made a second visit to the orphanage on our way back from Mysore when another small girl gave us the prasad.On reaching home in Bangalore I found the strangeness of my strange dream come true. Baba's ways are inscrutable!. I would just like to conclude that "Baba loves all and keeps everyone in his heart."
The fakir and I entered the house that was filled with Shirdi Sai Baba's photos. I moved from one room to another to see some more photos when a voice came from behind " Are you Rakesh?". I was shocked and went back to the first room and replied in the affirmation. There was a saintly man over there who pulled a photo which was under a garland on Sai Baba's photo.The photo was a childhood picture of myself. The saintly person said “ He had kept you in his heart since you were a child". There were also two small girls. The main door of the house had the name 'Kodama Raju' written on it with which the dream came to an end.
I found the strangeness of my strange dream come true. Baba's ways are inscrutable!
My wife and I went on a trip to Mysore after about ten days of the strange dream that I had. We decided to use my bike as the mode of transportation. In the course of our trip we visited Sri Rangapatna which was about fifteen kilometers ahead of Mysore. In Sri Ranga Patna, we visited an orphanage run by Sathya Sai Baba trust. The orphanage is known to be famous for the miracles of Sai. We visited the mandir in the orphanage where I found loads of vibhuti formation on Sai Baba's photos and also the continuous flow of nectar from Baba's amulet. The mandir was actually the conversion of two rooms for the purpose of worship with a lot of Baba's photos.A small girl then approached us and handed some nectar as prasad which wasamazingly tasty. We then proceeded with our journey to Mysore. We also made a second visit to the orphanage on our way back from Mysore when another small girl gave us the prasad.On reaching home in Bangalore I found the strangeness of my strange dream come true. Baba's ways are inscrutable!. I would just like to conclude that "Baba loves all and keeps everyone in his heart."
The Unseen Hand
'Ramana' the mere utterance of the word is nectar to His devotees! Having got exposed to His teachings, the continuous drill of disassociating oneself from the body and the mind that we rightfully think we are, I could hardly approach Him for any favours। Immediately the question ' Who is the one who is seeking the favour? ' will sprout up and that was suffice enough to silence me. For was it not He who had said that the true 'I' is far beyond the body and the mind? So for whom is favours to be sought? It appeared meaningless!As a normal human being still entangled in the body-mind complex and a very long way to go on the path of spirituality, I did ascend the steps of His shrine in Bangalore to seek His grace when a major crisis hit upon us (my family). I could only turn to Him for support for what care and love can surpass His? Had'nt He not told a Buddhist monk who came for His darshan that a Master's grace is not exclusively for spiritual upliftment of a devotee alone though it was the prime cause but also for material issues as well.
The doctor's report clearly stated the presence of a tumour in my aunt's brain. She shares almost an equal part with my mother in bringing me up. I immediately set out to my hometown after having pleaded with Ramana for her recovery and surrendering the issue to His complete care.My aunt was not aware of the seriousness of the issue. A couple of tests were done and the doctor said that it was not required to open her head to remove the tumour. The tumour consisted of liquid and so a tube was to be inserted trough her nose and the liquid was to be drained out. That was a great relief as opening the head sounded scary as some of the vital nerves were attached to the tumour. However another problem dangling like Damascus' sword above our heads was that, only after the surgeory the tumour would be exposed to biopsy to know whether it was benign or malignant. We took a second opinion from an expert surgeon who assured that the tumour is definitely benign. Another burden was lifted!I was then to meet the ENT(Ear, Nose, Throat Specialist) as his presence was required during the surgeory as the liquid of the tumour was to be drained through the nose. As I was listening to the assuring words of the doctor, I suddenly looked into the eyes of the much accustomed face! Who else' but Bhagavan Ramana's whose picture adorned the wall of the ENT's room as if to assure me that everything is going to be fine. A pleasant surprise indeed!A new relief began to flood within my being and I told the doctor that everything is going to be fine as Bhagavan has assured me with His presence. The surprised doctor and I had a conversation about Ramana. I was very happy to have founded a fellow devotee.On the day of the surgeory, as my tensed family waited outside the operation theatre, I was relaxed reading a book about Bhagavan. The surgeory proved to be successful and my aunt is hale and healthy now with the new lease of life granted by the magnanimous boon giver, Ramana. He made His presence most unassumingly and performed the miracle in the most natural way. Well that is Ramana's way! No spectacular outward display, yet the devotee can feel the guidance within him. An exclusive divine interaction between the devotee and Ramana alone!I expressed my gratitude to Bhagavan with tears brimming my eyes in the shrine in Bangalore. His flooding mercy not only cured my aunt, but also exposed me practically to what it meant to surrender to Him without reserve which formed the core of his teaching. His grace surpassed my amateurishness in spirituality of often faltering in my sadhana like a child toddling with indefinite steps. A two in one miracle that taught me as well as touched me! The experience taught what the state of mind will be with regards to complete surrender. All praise to my Master Ramana.
The doctor's report clearly stated the presence of a tumour in my aunt's brain. She shares almost an equal part with my mother in bringing me up. I immediately set out to my hometown after having pleaded with Ramana for her recovery and surrendering the issue to His complete care.My aunt was not aware of the seriousness of the issue. A couple of tests were done and the doctor said that it was not required to open her head to remove the tumour. The tumour consisted of liquid and so a tube was to be inserted trough her nose and the liquid was to be drained out. That was a great relief as opening the head sounded scary as some of the vital nerves were attached to the tumour. However another problem dangling like Damascus' sword above our heads was that, only after the surgeory the tumour would be exposed to biopsy to know whether it was benign or malignant. We took a second opinion from an expert surgeon who assured that the tumour is definitely benign. Another burden was lifted!I was then to meet the ENT(Ear, Nose, Throat Specialist) as his presence was required during the surgeory as the liquid of the tumour was to be drained through the nose. As I was listening to the assuring words of the doctor, I suddenly looked into the eyes of the much accustomed face! Who else' but Bhagavan Ramana's whose picture adorned the wall of the ENT's room as if to assure me that everything is going to be fine. A pleasant surprise indeed!A new relief began to flood within my being and I told the doctor that everything is going to be fine as Bhagavan has assured me with His presence. The surprised doctor and I had a conversation about Ramana. I was very happy to have founded a fellow devotee.On the day of the surgeory, as my tensed family waited outside the operation theatre, I was relaxed reading a book about Bhagavan. The surgeory proved to be successful and my aunt is hale and healthy now with the new lease of life granted by the magnanimous boon giver, Ramana. He made His presence most unassumingly and performed the miracle in the most natural way. Well that is Ramana's way! No spectacular outward display, yet the devotee can feel the guidance within him. An exclusive divine interaction between the devotee and Ramana alone!I expressed my gratitude to Bhagavan with tears brimming my eyes in the shrine in Bangalore. His flooding mercy not only cured my aunt, but also exposed me practically to what it meant to surrender to Him without reserve which formed the core of his teaching. His grace surpassed my amateurishness in spirituality of often faltering in my sadhana like a child toddling with indefinite steps. A two in one miracle that taught me as well as touched me! The experience taught what the state of mind will be with regards to complete surrender. All praise to my Master Ramana.
A Longing Heart
A longing heart that attempts with an unswerving resolve to aspire for the highest is the one that is capable of attaining it. The truth is sugar coated for a better comprehension and easy digestion by a story illustrated by Swami Vivekananda.Once a disciple requested his master to bless him with religion ( Vision of God). He could only get a smile in return from His master. However the young man was persistent and started visiting his master everyday only to be warded off gently. Practical demonstration always proves to be better than verbal instructions especially in the case of spirituality.
Until this search is awakened, the aspirant is no better than any atheist
The master hence took His disciple to a river and held him under the water by force and let him go after sometime। He then asked the disciple what was all His struggle for under the water? The surprised young man replied that he was struggling for his breath and all his thoughts were directed towards achieving it. The Master then smiled and said that his struggles should be such if not more in wanting the vision of God as well! A ceaseless craving for the divine is the prime requisite to attain it. Idols, intellectual feeding through books and other means are all frail forms of attempts which would not work for long if not coupled with a tireless search. Until this search is awakened, the aspirant is no better than any atheist. The search for the vision of God should be as desperate as a thief who is aware of a heap of gold in the next room.
Hence the vision of God is only possible with one's vision focused on Him that leads one to be a visualizer and ultimately to blend in the ultimate without visions and the act of visualizing!
swami vivekananda
Until this search is awakened, the aspirant is no better than any atheist
The master hence took His disciple to a river and held him under the water by force and let him go after sometime। He then asked the disciple what was all His struggle for under the water? The surprised young man replied that he was struggling for his breath and all his thoughts were directed towards achieving it. The Master then smiled and said that his struggles should be such if not more in wanting the vision of God as well! A ceaseless craving for the divine is the prime requisite to attain it. Idols, intellectual feeding through books and other means are all frail forms of attempts which would not work for long if not coupled with a tireless search. Until this search is awakened, the aspirant is no better than any atheist. The search for the vision of God should be as desperate as a thief who is aware of a heap of gold in the next room.
Hence the vision of God is only possible with one's vision focused on Him that leads one to be a visualizer and ultimately to blend in the ultimate without visions and the act of visualizing!
swami vivekananda
Is Enlightenment Possible Without A Guru?
What do you see in the future regarding the Guru/Disciple relationship? Do we need a Guru to attain a state of enlightenment?To me this is a very important question at the present time। I would like to emphasize the present time। It was in the mid 80's that the spiritual relationship of guru/disciple reached its highest popularity. Since then, there have been spiritual teachers with a more Western approach such as Deepak Chopra, Wayne Dyer and Christiane Northrop, who have taken their educational credentials to approach the teacher/student relationship in a more down-to-earth environment. There are many more teachers without the educational credentials who are just as valuable but don't advertise the fact and will become popular in their own communities over the next few years.We need to consider when the guru/disciple relationship started in order to see where it is presently and where it is going in the future. The best place to start is with the cycles of time called Yugas or Ages in the ancient Vedic texts. There are four ages or Yugas: Satya-yuga or the Golden Age, Treta-yuga, Dvapar-yuga and Kali-yuga. We are presently in Kali-yoga which is the dark age.
In Stephen Knapp's book "The Vedic Prophecies: A New Look Into The Future" , he writes on page 21-The Padma Purana (7।26.15-17) elaborates that "in Kali-yuga, which is the abode of sins, everyone is involved in sinful activities. They censure the Vedas, or spiritual truths, and engage in gambling andstealing. Brahmanas will act fraudulently for a livelihood. Everyone will be addicted to women, sex, and intoxicating liquors. They will be stealing others' wealth. Heretics and atheists will become prominent. Men will possess little luster and will be wrathful, greedy, untruthful, and be filled with jealousy, pride, anger, deceit, and malice."
This could be the reason why the relationship between Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad-Gita is the most read spiritual book in the East।
According to most historians Kali-yuga started after Krishna died some 5,000 years ago. This could be the reason why the relationship between Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad-Gita is the most read spiritual book in the East. It sets the tone for how the guru/disciple relationship works in the dark age such as Kali-yuga. In such a dark age it is no wonder that there is such a need to have a teacher of light (guru) to guide humanity. With so many mosquitoes available and very few light bulbs, the guru becomes the central energy source of pure white light that could elevate others to a higher state of awareness that is almost absent in humanity as a whole. The average age in Kali-yuga is 100 years if you're lucky. In Dvapara-yuga it is 1,000 years old. In Treta-yuga it is 10,000 years old. In Satya-yuga you could live to be 100,000 years old in perfect health.To write about each yuga in detail would be lengthy. I recommend Stephen Knapp's book mentioned earlier for detailed information regarding the subject of yugas. It is obvious from my description of Kali-yuga that a teacher of enlightenment is needed and very rare in this dark age. However, I am always happy to mention the light at the end of the tunnel. According to most authors who are experts on the subject of yugas, we are entering a sub-period of Satya-yuga which will last 10,000 years. According to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi who is the founder of the TM organization, we have entered this sub-period in July of 2005. Guru purnama is a yearly celebration of the guru every July on the full moon. The full moon in July of 2005 according to Maharishi is the start of the 10,000 year cycle of a sub-period of Satya-yuga in the Kali-yuga age we are presently in.
In Stephen Knapp's book "The Vedic Prophecies: A New Look Into The Future" , he writes on page 21-The Padma Purana (7।26.15-17) elaborates that "in Kali-yuga, which is the abode of sins, everyone is involved in sinful activities. They censure the Vedas, or spiritual truths, and engage in gambling andstealing. Brahmanas will act fraudulently for a livelihood. Everyone will be addicted to women, sex, and intoxicating liquors. They will be stealing others' wealth. Heretics and atheists will become prominent. Men will possess little luster and will be wrathful, greedy, untruthful, and be filled with jealousy, pride, anger, deceit, and malice."
This could be the reason why the relationship between Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad-Gita is the most read spiritual book in the East।
According to most historians Kali-yuga started after Krishna died some 5,000 years ago. This could be the reason why the relationship between Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad-Gita is the most read spiritual book in the East. It sets the tone for how the guru/disciple relationship works in the dark age such as Kali-yuga. In such a dark age it is no wonder that there is such a need to have a teacher of light (guru) to guide humanity. With so many mosquitoes available and very few light bulbs, the guru becomes the central energy source of pure white light that could elevate others to a higher state of awareness that is almost absent in humanity as a whole. The average age in Kali-yuga is 100 years if you're lucky. In Dvapara-yuga it is 1,000 years old. In Treta-yuga it is 10,000 years old. In Satya-yuga you could live to be 100,000 years old in perfect health.To write about each yuga in detail would be lengthy. I recommend Stephen Knapp's book mentioned earlier for detailed information regarding the subject of yugas. It is obvious from my description of Kali-yuga that a teacher of enlightenment is needed and very rare in this dark age. However, I am always happy to mention the light at the end of the tunnel. According to most authors who are experts on the subject of yugas, we are entering a sub-period of Satya-yuga which will last 10,000 years. According to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi who is the founder of the TM organization, we have entered this sub-period in July of 2005. Guru purnama is a yearly celebration of the guru every July on the full moon. The full moon in July of 2005 according to Maharishi is the start of the 10,000 year cycle of a sub-period of Satya-yuga in the Kali-yuga age we are presently in.
The Healer Par Excellence
Dr.K Sudhakar of Hyderabad was a confirmed diabetic patient since 18 years and was under treatment for the same. In 1990, he had an abscess on his right foot, which did not heal in spite of antibiotic injections and application of ointments.
There is no disease greater than a sinful body, and no doctor greater than Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi.
He was admitted in hospital and finally it was decided that his foot had to be amputated lest gangrene might develop and spread to the upper portion of his leg। The writer who had recorded all the facts of this article, in his usual daily meditation got a message from Sri Sai Baba in which the profile of the patient was shown, with the advice that he would not be cured in the hospital and therefore he should immediately go home. Baba also prescribed a mixer of Bilwapatris, Tulasipatra and Sharadaparta juice being applied on the wound. Upon hearing this, the patient got discharged and followed Baba"s medicine. Miraculously his wound got completely healed in two weeks!
The writer himself had once suffered a heart attack and was admitted in the hospital, in May 1998. The doctors after all the tests diagnosed that all the three valves i.e. Aortic, Mistral and Pulmonary, were not functioning and due to this there was no sufficient blood circulation to the heart. At this juncture a by-pass surgery was not possible. A list of medicines to be taken daily had been prescribed. Later in one of the messages, Baba said that the diagnosis of the doctors had been wrong and that it was Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy and prescribed some medicine for this disease !Sri V Narayana Rao of Hyderabad said that his son was admitted in the Gandhi Hospital at Secundrabad, fearing that he was developing brain fever. A doctor examined his son and wrote on the case sheet that the disease was not brain fever. He wondered that it was unusual for a doctor to write that way. Further more how could he read his mind?! He thought that Sri Sai Baba had appeared as the doctor to relieved him of his tension. His son meanwhile in a semiconscious state had been chanting ‘Sai Ram".The next day the fever subsided. The cure for this disease was the mantra 'Sai Ram', recited by the patient. There are innumerable miracles performed by Baba even after His Mahasamadhi. These experiences of devotees confirm that Sri Sai Baba is still living with us and guiding us in every affair. There is no disease greater than a sinful body, and no doctor greater than Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi.
There is no disease greater than a sinful body, and no doctor greater than Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi.
He was admitted in hospital and finally it was decided that his foot had to be amputated lest gangrene might develop and spread to the upper portion of his leg। The writer who had recorded all the facts of this article, in his usual daily meditation got a message from Sri Sai Baba in which the profile of the patient was shown, with the advice that he would not be cured in the hospital and therefore he should immediately go home. Baba also prescribed a mixer of Bilwapatris, Tulasipatra and Sharadaparta juice being applied on the wound. Upon hearing this, the patient got discharged and followed Baba"s medicine. Miraculously his wound got completely healed in two weeks!
The writer himself had once suffered a heart attack and was admitted in the hospital, in May 1998. The doctors after all the tests diagnosed that all the three valves i.e. Aortic, Mistral and Pulmonary, were not functioning and due to this there was no sufficient blood circulation to the heart. At this juncture a by-pass surgery was not possible. A list of medicines to be taken daily had been prescribed. Later in one of the messages, Baba said that the diagnosis of the doctors had been wrong and that it was Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy and prescribed some medicine for this disease !Sri V Narayana Rao of Hyderabad said that his son was admitted in the Gandhi Hospital at Secundrabad, fearing that he was developing brain fever. A doctor examined his son and wrote on the case sheet that the disease was not brain fever. He wondered that it was unusual for a doctor to write that way. Further more how could he read his mind?! He thought that Sri Sai Baba had appeared as the doctor to relieved him of his tension. His son meanwhile in a semiconscious state had been chanting ‘Sai Ram".The next day the fever subsided. The cure for this disease was the mantra 'Sai Ram', recited by the patient. There are innumerable miracles performed by Baba even after His Mahasamadhi. These experiences of devotees confirm that Sri Sai Baba is still living with us and guiding us in every affair. There is no disease greater than a sinful body, and no doctor greater than Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi.
Thiru Alangudi-To Dispel The Darkness
The etymology of the Sanskrit word 'Guru' in Hinduism is very interesting। Of the word 'Guru', 'gu' stands for 'darkness' and 'ru' for 'dispeller' thus arriving at the meaning as the dispeller of darkness.Guru is the one who leads one from illusion to illumination by imparting the knowledge of the absolute reality. He is the helmsman who aids in ferrying across the ocean of worldly maladies safely securing one in His blissful benediction of self realization. The worship of 'Guru' facilitates in attaining the material goals to deliver one from the delusion of desires and to lead one to the path of spirituality. The word 'Guru' is a general term and Dakshinamurthy, a form of Shiva in the Hindu tradition of 'Saivam' is worshipped as Guru.
The Legend
Thiru Alangudi, the popular shrine for the worship of Guru or Dashinamurthy in Tamil Nadu lies 17km from the temple city of Kumbakonam. The presiding deity of the shrine is Lord Shiva bearing the name of Aaabathsagaayeswara or Aranyeswara. Goddess Parvati here is worshipped as Umai Ammai or Elavarkuzali. Once when the Devas and the Asuras in a combined effort tried to churn the celestial ocean, 'Parkadal'. They used the the celestial snake 'Vasuki' as the rope and the mount 'Mandara' as the rod to procure the celestial elixir. The snake emanated deadly poison which the Lord swallowed to safeguard the universe। Hence Lord Shiva is fondly hailed as 'Aaabathsagayeswara', meaning 'saviour' for having consumed the poison (Aalaala Visham) and the place came to be known as 'Alangudi'।
An interesting episode in the life of Sundaramurthy Nayanar also marks the significance for addressing the Lord as 'Aaabathsagaayeswara'। It is said that the Lord extended His grace in saving the life of Sundramurthy Nayanar who tried to ferry across the river Vettaru which was in spate while opting to reach Alangudi to worship the lord at the cost of his life. Sundaramurthy Nayanar then received spiritual initiation by Lord Shiva in the form of Dakshinamurthy or Guru in this shrine.
"It is believed that one who has acquired the blessings for fourteen generations could step into this temple for worship"
Alangudi is also known as 'Thirumana Mangalam' as Goddess Parvati after an arduous penance sought the hand of the Lord in marriage in Alangudi। Kasi Aranyam and Thiru Erumpoolai are the other names of Alangudi. Another significance of the temple is attributed to Lord Ganesha, who is worshipped as 'Kalangaamal kaatha Vinayagar' ( the Lord who was steadfast in saving the devotees) for having slain the vicious 'Gajamuhasura' who was a great threat to the Devas.Apar, Sundarar and Thirugnanasambandhar, the three important Nayanmars have sung the praise of the Lord of Alangudi. There fifteen 'theerthams'(wate bodies) around the temple of which 'Amritha Pushkarini' is the noted one. Poolai is the sthala viruksham( the tree associated with the temple )
Significance Of 'Guru' Worship In AlangudiIt is believed that one who has acquired the blessings for fourteen generations could step into this temple for worship. Alangudi is the most popular 'Parihara Sthalam' ( Temple for rectification ) for appeasing Guru Bhagavan for malefic effects of the planet Guru or Jupiter and other Jupiter related issues in one's horoscope. The worship of Dakshinamurthy in this shrine would confer longevity, progeny, fame and wealth on the worshipper. The story of the redemption of a king, Musukuntha Chakravarthi from his sins for beheading his minister Amuthokar, a devotee of Lord Shiva is the standing example of the mercy of the Lord towards the sinners. Musukuntha Charavarthy is believed to have worshipped 'Dakshinamurthy' in Alangudi for his redemption. It is also believed that Amuthokar was the one who had constructed the temple in Alangudi.Method Of WorshipThe worshipper is instructed to light 24 lamps with ghee and circumambulate the temple 24 times.Worship of the Lord during Gurupeyarchi ( Transit of the planet 'Guru' every year ) and festivals associated with Gurupeyarchi, worship on Thursdays, 1008 Conch Abisheka festival, Chitra Poornima and the Car festival are the important events celebrated with the view to gain the blessings of Dakshinamurthy.Hence let us incur the blessings of the Lord Of Alangudi for the fulfillment of our lives.
The Legend
Thiru Alangudi, the popular shrine for the worship of Guru or Dashinamurthy in Tamil Nadu lies 17km from the temple city of Kumbakonam. The presiding deity of the shrine is Lord Shiva bearing the name of Aaabathsagaayeswara or Aranyeswara. Goddess Parvati here is worshipped as Umai Ammai or Elavarkuzali. Once when the Devas and the Asuras in a combined effort tried to churn the celestial ocean, 'Parkadal'. They used the the celestial snake 'Vasuki' as the rope and the mount 'Mandara' as the rod to procure the celestial elixir. The snake emanated deadly poison which the Lord swallowed to safeguard the universe। Hence Lord Shiva is fondly hailed as 'Aaabathsagayeswara', meaning 'saviour' for having consumed the poison (Aalaala Visham) and the place came to be known as 'Alangudi'।
An interesting episode in the life of Sundaramurthy Nayanar also marks the significance for addressing the Lord as 'Aaabathsagaayeswara'। It is said that the Lord extended His grace in saving the life of Sundramurthy Nayanar who tried to ferry across the river Vettaru which was in spate while opting to reach Alangudi to worship the lord at the cost of his life. Sundaramurthy Nayanar then received spiritual initiation by Lord Shiva in the form of Dakshinamurthy or Guru in this shrine.
"It is believed that one who has acquired the blessings for fourteen generations could step into this temple for worship"
Alangudi is also known as 'Thirumana Mangalam' as Goddess Parvati after an arduous penance sought the hand of the Lord in marriage in Alangudi। Kasi Aranyam and Thiru Erumpoolai are the other names of Alangudi. Another significance of the temple is attributed to Lord Ganesha, who is worshipped as 'Kalangaamal kaatha Vinayagar' ( the Lord who was steadfast in saving the devotees) for having slain the vicious 'Gajamuhasura' who was a great threat to the Devas.Apar, Sundarar and Thirugnanasambandhar, the three important Nayanmars have sung the praise of the Lord of Alangudi. There fifteen 'theerthams'(wate bodies) around the temple of which 'Amritha Pushkarini' is the noted one. Poolai is the sthala viruksham( the tree associated with the temple )
Significance Of 'Guru' Worship In AlangudiIt is believed that one who has acquired the blessings for fourteen generations could step into this temple for worship. Alangudi is the most popular 'Parihara Sthalam' ( Temple for rectification ) for appeasing Guru Bhagavan for malefic effects of the planet Guru or Jupiter and other Jupiter related issues in one's horoscope. The worship of Dakshinamurthy in this shrine would confer longevity, progeny, fame and wealth on the worshipper. The story of the redemption of a king, Musukuntha Chakravarthi from his sins for beheading his minister Amuthokar, a devotee of Lord Shiva is the standing example of the mercy of the Lord towards the sinners. Musukuntha Charavarthy is believed to have worshipped 'Dakshinamurthy' in Alangudi for his redemption. It is also believed that Amuthokar was the one who had constructed the temple in Alangudi.Method Of WorshipThe worshipper is instructed to light 24 lamps with ghee and circumambulate the temple 24 times.Worship of the Lord during Gurupeyarchi ( Transit of the planet 'Guru' every year ) and festivals associated with Gurupeyarchi, worship on Thursdays, 1008 Conch Abisheka festival, Chitra Poornima and the Car festival are the important events celebrated with the view to gain the blessings of Dakshinamurthy.Hence let us incur the blessings of the Lord Of Alangudi for the fulfillment of our lives.
'Practice', The Path To Peace
Sathya Sai spoke of the importance of Sadhana ( spiritual practice ) to Prof।Kasturi. “Sadhna is essential pre-requisite. You were a professor for a long time. So you can easily understand this. You must have evaluated the answer scripts of many students. You assign marks only after careful scrutiny, to discover how diligent they have been in their studies. I also measure and weight the sincerity and steadiness's of the sadhna in accordance with your progress".Many are not aware that the misery in which they find themselves can be negated by sadhna and the sankapla that can be won through it.
Sankaracharya describes the divine task master as "Ahethuka" daya sindu."...The embodiment of inexhaustible compassion which does not examine credentials. Measuring and weighting Sadhana in order to measure out our Sankalpa is operative only after His Grace has led the straying steps into the fold.
Many are not aware that the misery in which they find themselves can be negated by sadhna and the sankapla.
Baba had announced to the world, through a letter to His elder brother, that He had decided to "hold by hand" and save the unfortunate who miss the road to 'Freedom from fear'. 'Abhaya in defied in the Upanishads with the very 'Moksha' as when one attains Moksha he is untouched by any fear.
Sankaracharya describes the divine task master as "Ahethuka" daya sindu."...The embodiment of inexhaustible compassion which does not examine credentials. Measuring and weighting Sadhana in order to measure out our Sankalpa is operative only after His Grace has led the straying steps into the fold.
Many are not aware that the misery in which they find themselves can be negated by sadhna and the sankapla.
Baba had announced to the world, through a letter to His elder brother, that He had decided to "hold by hand" and save the unfortunate who miss the road to 'Freedom from fear'. 'Abhaya in defied in the Upanishads with the very 'Moksha' as when one attains Moksha he is untouched by any fear.
Variety in Upadesh
Sai Baba required no special place, nor any special time forgiving instructions. Whenever any occasion demanded, He gave them freely. Once it so happened that a Bhakta of Baba, reviled another behind his back, before other people. Leaving aside the merits, he dwelt on the faults of his brother, and spoke so sarcastically, that the hearers were disgusted. Generally, we see that people have a tendency to scandalize others, unnecessarily; and this brings on hatred and ill-will. Saints see scandal, in another light. They say that there are various ways of cleansing or removing dirt, viz by means of earth, water and soap etc., but a scandal-monger has got a way of his own. He removes the dirt (faults) of others by his tongue; so in a way, obliges the person, whom he reviles and for this he is to be thanked.
Sai Baba had his own method of correcting the scandal-monger. He knew by his omniscience what the slanderer had done and when He met him at noon near the Lendi, Baba pointed out to him a pig that was eating filth near the fence and said to him - "Behold how, with what relish it is gorging dung. Your conduct is similar. You go on reviling your own brethren to your heart's content. After performing many deeds of merit, you are born a man, and if you act like this, will Shirdi help you in any way?" Needless to say, that the Bhakta took the lesson to his heart, and went away.
Baba said that He was omnipresent, occupying land, air, country, world, light and heaven, and that He was not limited
In this way Baba went on giving instructions whenever necessary. If these are borne in our minds and acted upon, the spiritual goal (realization) is not far off. There is a proverb which says - "If there be my Hari (Lord), He will feed me on my cot." This proverb is only true in respect of food and clothing, but if anyone trusting in this, sits quiet and does nothing in spiritual matters, he will be ruined. One has to exert himself to his utmost for attaining self-realization. The more he endeavours, the better for him.Sai Ram. In a way, what Shri Hemadpant wrote above is very true, but it is very difficult to actually sit and do nothing! And it is easy for an idle mind to become a devil's workshop and thus drive the person to mischief including criticizing others, forgetting that they too are children of the same God.Shri Hari will definitely take care of a devotee who indeed does nothing, but to reach that stage, one has to first do good things. It is good to remember Shri Adi Shankara's Bhaja Govinda Stotram: Satsangatve nissangatvam, nissangatve nirmohatvam, nirmohatve nischala tattvam, nischala tatve, jeevan muktih, Bhaja Govindam....Out of good company (good deeds), comes detachment, out of detachment comes freedom from illusion, out of that comes a steady mind and a steady mind leads to liberation while still in the physical body. So worship and chant Govinda....Sai Ram. All Saints and Sadgurus teach the same thing in different forms to suit the occasions. Sai Ram.Baba said that He was omnipresent, occupying land, air, country, world, light and heaven, and that He was not limited. To remove the misunderstanding of those, who thought that Baba was only His body three cubits and a half in length, He incarnated Himself in this form and if any devotee meditated on Him day and night with complete self-surrender, he experienced complete union (without any difference) with Him like sweetness and sugar, waves and sea, eye and its luster. He, who wants to get rid of the cycle of births and deaths, should lead a righteous life, with his mind calm and composed. He should always engage himself in good actions, should do his duties and surrender himself, heart and soul to Him. He need not then be afraid of anything. He who trusts Him entirely, hears and expounds His leelas and does not think of anything else, is sure to attain Self-realization.
Baba asked many to remember His name and to surrender to Him, but to those, who wanted to know who they were ('Who am I' enquiry), He advised Shravanam (study) and Mananam (meditation)। To some, He advised remembering God's name, to others hearing His leelas, to some worship of His Feet, to others reading and studying Adhyatma Ramayan, Jnaneshwari and other sacred scriptures. Some He made sit near His Feet, some He sent to Khandoba's temple, and some He advised the repetition of the thousands names of Vishnu and some the study of Chhandogya Upanishad and Geeta.
There were no limit, nor restriction to Baba's instructions. To some, He gave them in person. To others by vision in dreams. To one addicted to drink, He appeared in his dream, sat on his chest, pressed it and left him, after he gave a promise not to touch liquor anymore. To some, He explained some Mantras like 'Gurur Brahma' in dreams. To some devotees, who were practising Hath-Yoga, He sent word that he should give up Hath-Yoga practices, sit quiet and wait (Saburi). It is impossible to describe all His ways and methods. In ordinary worldly dealings, He set examples by His actions, one of which is given below.
There were no limit to Baba's instructions. To some, He gave them in person. To others by vision in dreams.
Sai Ram। The roads are many but the goal is the same. The paths are many but the destination is same. That is the union of the Jeevatma with the Paramatma, the individual soul with the Universal Soul, the water drop with the ocean. Sai Ram. Remuneration for LabourOne day at noon, Baba came near Radha-Krishna-Mai's house and said - "Bring me a ladder." Some men brought it and set it against a house as directed by Baba. He climbed up on the roof of Vaman Gondkar's house, passed the roof of Radha-Krishna-Mai's house and then got down from the other corner. What object Baba had, none could know.Sai Ram. And when Baba did not will it, none of His disciples or devotees including Shama, Tatya Kote Patil etc., could think of asking Him.Radha-Krishna-Mai was, at that time, shivering with Malaria. It may be to drive off that fever, that He may have gone there. Immediately after getting down, Baba paid rupees two to the persons who brought the ladder. Somebody asked Baba, why he paid so much for this. He replied that nobody should take the labour of others, in vain. The worker should be paid, his dues promptly and liberally.Sai Ram. It is always better to pay liberally. The recipient feels obliged and will come gladly the next time for the giver's requests. Also, Baba was indicating that karmic debts should be settled as fast as possible.Sai Ram. We have come to the end of a wonderfully rich chapter. In the next issue, we will take up another great chapter, where Baba explains to Sri Dasa Ganu Maharaj, the essence of Isa Upanishad. Sai Ram.
Bow to Shri Sai - Peace be to all
By: Venkateswara Swamy Swarna
Sai Baba had his own method of correcting the scandal-monger. He knew by his omniscience what the slanderer had done and when He met him at noon near the Lendi, Baba pointed out to him a pig that was eating filth near the fence and said to him - "Behold how, with what relish it is gorging dung. Your conduct is similar. You go on reviling your own brethren to your heart's content. After performing many deeds of merit, you are born a man, and if you act like this, will Shirdi help you in any way?" Needless to say, that the Bhakta took the lesson to his heart, and went away.
Baba said that He was omnipresent, occupying land, air, country, world, light and heaven, and that He was not limited
In this way Baba went on giving instructions whenever necessary. If these are borne in our minds and acted upon, the spiritual goal (realization) is not far off. There is a proverb which says - "If there be my Hari (Lord), He will feed me on my cot." This proverb is only true in respect of food and clothing, but if anyone trusting in this, sits quiet and does nothing in spiritual matters, he will be ruined. One has to exert himself to his utmost for attaining self-realization. The more he endeavours, the better for him.Sai Ram. In a way, what Shri Hemadpant wrote above is very true, but it is very difficult to actually sit and do nothing! And it is easy for an idle mind to become a devil's workshop and thus drive the person to mischief including criticizing others, forgetting that they too are children of the same God.Shri Hari will definitely take care of a devotee who indeed does nothing, but to reach that stage, one has to first do good things. It is good to remember Shri Adi Shankara's Bhaja Govinda Stotram: Satsangatve nissangatvam, nissangatve nirmohatvam, nirmohatve nischala tattvam, nischala tatve, jeevan muktih, Bhaja Govindam....Out of good company (good deeds), comes detachment, out of detachment comes freedom from illusion, out of that comes a steady mind and a steady mind leads to liberation while still in the physical body. So worship and chant Govinda....Sai Ram. All Saints and Sadgurus teach the same thing in different forms to suit the occasions. Sai Ram.Baba said that He was omnipresent, occupying land, air, country, world, light and heaven, and that He was not limited. To remove the misunderstanding of those, who thought that Baba was only His body three cubits and a half in length, He incarnated Himself in this form and if any devotee meditated on Him day and night with complete self-surrender, he experienced complete union (without any difference) with Him like sweetness and sugar, waves and sea, eye and its luster. He, who wants to get rid of the cycle of births and deaths, should lead a righteous life, with his mind calm and composed. He should always engage himself in good actions, should do his duties and surrender himself, heart and soul to Him. He need not then be afraid of anything. He who trusts Him entirely, hears and expounds His leelas and does not think of anything else, is sure to attain Self-realization.
Baba asked many to remember His name and to surrender to Him, but to those, who wanted to know who they were ('Who am I' enquiry), He advised Shravanam (study) and Mananam (meditation)। To some, He advised remembering God's name, to others hearing His leelas, to some worship of His Feet, to others reading and studying Adhyatma Ramayan, Jnaneshwari and other sacred scriptures. Some He made sit near His Feet, some He sent to Khandoba's temple, and some He advised the repetition of the thousands names of Vishnu and some the study of Chhandogya Upanishad and Geeta.
There were no limit, nor restriction to Baba's instructions. To some, He gave them in person. To others by vision in dreams. To one addicted to drink, He appeared in his dream, sat on his chest, pressed it and left him, after he gave a promise not to touch liquor anymore. To some, He explained some Mantras like 'Gurur Brahma' in dreams. To some devotees, who were practising Hath-Yoga, He sent word that he should give up Hath-Yoga practices, sit quiet and wait (Saburi). It is impossible to describe all His ways and methods. In ordinary worldly dealings, He set examples by His actions, one of which is given below.
There were no limit to Baba's instructions. To some, He gave them in person. To others by vision in dreams.
Sai Ram। The roads are many but the goal is the same. The paths are many but the destination is same. That is the union of the Jeevatma with the Paramatma, the individual soul with the Universal Soul, the water drop with the ocean. Sai Ram. Remuneration for LabourOne day at noon, Baba came near Radha-Krishna-Mai's house and said - "Bring me a ladder." Some men brought it and set it against a house as directed by Baba. He climbed up on the roof of Vaman Gondkar's house, passed the roof of Radha-Krishna-Mai's house and then got down from the other corner. What object Baba had, none could know.Sai Ram. And when Baba did not will it, none of His disciples or devotees including Shama, Tatya Kote Patil etc., could think of asking Him.Radha-Krishna-Mai was, at that time, shivering with Malaria. It may be to drive off that fever, that He may have gone there. Immediately after getting down, Baba paid rupees two to the persons who brought the ladder. Somebody asked Baba, why he paid so much for this. He replied that nobody should take the labour of others, in vain. The worker should be paid, his dues promptly and liberally.Sai Ram. It is always better to pay liberally. The recipient feels obliged and will come gladly the next time for the giver's requests. Also, Baba was indicating that karmic debts should be settled as fast as possible.Sai Ram. We have come to the end of a wonderfully rich chapter. In the next issue, we will take up another great chapter, where Baba explains to Sri Dasa Ganu Maharaj, the essence of Isa Upanishad. Sai Ram.
Bow to Shri Sai - Peace be to all
By: Venkateswara Swamy Swarna
Baba's Advice Regarding our Behaviour
The following words of Baba are general and invaluable. If they are kept in mind and acted upon, they will always do you good. "Unless there is some relationship or connection, nobody goes anywhere. If any men or creatures come to you, do not discourteously drive them away, but receive them well and treat them, with due respect.
Shri Hari (God) will be certainly pleased, if you give water to the thirsty, bread to the hungry, clothes to the naked, and your verandah to strangers for sitting and resting. If anybody wants
any money from you, and you are not inclined to give, do not give, but do not bark at him, like a dog.Let anybody speak hundreds of things against you, do not resent by giving any bitter reply. If you always tolerate such things, you will certainly be happy. Let the world go topsy-turvy, you remain where you are. Standing or staying in your own place, look on calmly at the show of all things passing before you.
he heard a beautiful song that was being sung nicely by one Aurangabadkar, in the Masjid before Baba.
Sai Ram. Sai is asking us to leave the idea of doership and adopt the stage of an aware witness and remain steadfast and unshaken by events taking place. These are the traits or attributes of a Sthitha Prajna, Para Brahman and the enlightened Sage. Sai Ram.Demolish the wall of difference that separates you from Me; and then the road for our meeting will be clear and open. The sense of differentiation, as I and thou, is the barrier that keeps away the disciple from his Master, and unless that is destroyed the state of union or atonement is not possible.Sai Ram. A beautiful description of duality. The One becomes two to become One yet again. Yoga is union, of the individual ego with the Universal Consciousness, just as the water drop unites with the water in the ocean. Sai Ram."Allah Malik" i.e. God is the sole Proprietor, nobody else is our Protector. His method of work is extra-ordinary, invaluable, and inscrutable. His will will be done and He will show us the way, and satisfy our heart's desires. It is on account of Rinanubandh (former relationship) that we have come together, let us love and serve each other and be happy. He, who attain the supreme goal of life, is immortal and happy; all others merely exist, i.e., live so long as they breathe".Encouraging Good Thoughts of FruitionIt is interesting to note how Sai Baba encouraged good thoughts. You have to surrender yourself completely to Him with love, and devotion, and then you will see how, He helps you, off and on, in so many things. Some Saint has said, that when you get a good thought, immediately after awakening from sleep, and if you develop the same afterwards during the day, your intellect will be unfolded and your mind will attain calmness. Hemadpant wanted to try this. On one Wednesday night before going to bed, he thought - "To-morrow is Thursday - an auspicious day and the place, viz. Shirdi, is so holy; so let me pass the whole day in remembering and chanting the Rama-nama, and then he slept. Next morning when he got up he remembered without any effort the name of Rama and was much pleased.Hemadpant then, after finishing his morning duties, went to see Baba with flowers. When he left Dixit's Wada, and was just passing Booty's Wada (present Samadhi-mandir) he heard a beautiful song that was being sung nicely by one Aurangabadkar, in the Masjid before Baba. The song was Guru - kripanjan payo mere bhai" etc. by Ekanath, in which he says that he got collyrium in the form of Guru's grace which opened his vision and made him see Rama, in and out, in sleep, dream, and waking state and everywhere. There were so many songs; and why was this song particularly chosen by Aurangabadkar, a devotee of Baba? Is this not a curious coincidence arranged by Baba to feed the determination of Hemadpant to sing unceasingly Rama-nama, during the day?Sai Ram. He has helped me too with this particular mantra out of the many. All His names are effective in liberating us from our bondage of attachment to our worldly desires. Sai Ram. All Saints agree and lay stress upon the efficacy of uttering Rama's (God's) name, in fulfilling the ambitions of the Bhaktas and in protecting and saving them from all calamities.
By: Venkateswara Swami Swarna
Shri Hari (God) will be certainly pleased, if you give water to the thirsty, bread to the hungry, clothes to the naked, and your verandah to strangers for sitting and resting. If anybody wants
any money from you, and you are not inclined to give, do not give, but do not bark at him, like a dog.Let anybody speak hundreds of things against you, do not resent by giving any bitter reply. If you always tolerate such things, you will certainly be happy. Let the world go topsy-turvy, you remain where you are. Standing or staying in your own place, look on calmly at the show of all things passing before you.
he heard a beautiful song that was being sung nicely by one Aurangabadkar, in the Masjid before Baba.
Sai Ram. Sai is asking us to leave the idea of doership and adopt the stage of an aware witness and remain steadfast and unshaken by events taking place. These are the traits or attributes of a Sthitha Prajna, Para Brahman and the enlightened Sage. Sai Ram.Demolish the wall of difference that separates you from Me; and then the road for our meeting will be clear and open. The sense of differentiation, as I and thou, is the barrier that keeps away the disciple from his Master, and unless that is destroyed the state of union or atonement is not possible.Sai Ram. A beautiful description of duality. The One becomes two to become One yet again. Yoga is union, of the individual ego with the Universal Consciousness, just as the water drop unites with the water in the ocean. Sai Ram."Allah Malik" i.e. God is the sole Proprietor, nobody else is our Protector. His method of work is extra-ordinary, invaluable, and inscrutable. His will will be done and He will show us the way, and satisfy our heart's desires. It is on account of Rinanubandh (former relationship) that we have come together, let us love and serve each other and be happy. He, who attain the supreme goal of life, is immortal and happy; all others merely exist, i.e., live so long as they breathe".Encouraging Good Thoughts of FruitionIt is interesting to note how Sai Baba encouraged good thoughts. You have to surrender yourself completely to Him with love, and devotion, and then you will see how, He helps you, off and on, in so many things. Some Saint has said, that when you get a good thought, immediately after awakening from sleep, and if you develop the same afterwards during the day, your intellect will be unfolded and your mind will attain calmness. Hemadpant wanted to try this. On one Wednesday night before going to bed, he thought - "To-morrow is Thursday - an auspicious day and the place, viz. Shirdi, is so holy; so let me pass the whole day in remembering and chanting the Rama-nama, and then he slept. Next morning when he got up he remembered without any effort the name of Rama and was much pleased.Hemadpant then, after finishing his morning duties, went to see Baba with flowers. When he left Dixit's Wada, and was just passing Booty's Wada (present Samadhi-mandir) he heard a beautiful song that was being sung nicely by one Aurangabadkar, in the Masjid before Baba. The song was Guru - kripanjan payo mere bhai" etc. by Ekanath, in which he says that he got collyrium in the form of Guru's grace which opened his vision and made him see Rama, in and out, in sleep, dream, and waking state and everywhere. There were so many songs; and why was this song particularly chosen by Aurangabadkar, a devotee of Baba? Is this not a curious coincidence arranged by Baba to feed the determination of Hemadpant to sing unceasingly Rama-nama, during the day?Sai Ram. He has helped me too with this particular mantra out of the many. All His names are effective in liberating us from our bondage of attachment to our worldly desires. Sai Ram. All Saints agree and lay stress upon the efficacy of uttering Rama's (God's) name, in fulfilling the ambitions of the Bhaktas and in protecting and saving them from all calamities.
By: Venkateswara Swami Swarna
Union Of The Jeevatma With The Paramatma
When I wanted to submit this article, I found that it would be published under Yoga-Spirituality। So, I first thought of requesting the editor to change the last part of the link from yoga to spirituality to differentiate it from yoga, which is more concerned with asanas, yama, niyama, pranayam etc., but then realised that the goal of spirituality and yoga is one and the same, that is. union of the jeevatma with the paramatma, the part realising its oneness with the whole, the ego willing to play its role in the drama of life. So, I felt that no change is needed. Many times we talk of Spirituality. What exactly do we mean by that? Let us try to approach this question from the point of view of science.We can very well understand when we talk of a physical world. We can hear, see, smell, taste and touch something. We talk of it being a solid, liquid or a gas. We can touch a solid, smell it if it has a smell, taste it if it has a taste, we see it as having a definite size and shape. We can impact it with another solid and hear the sound of impact. Thus a solid can be sensed by all five sense organs. Sai Ram.When it comes to the liquid, we can certainly see it but with an important difference - it has no size or shape except as defined by a container. It may have a smell and it may have a taste too. It certainly makes a splashing or sloshing sound when moved in the container. Even a dynamic body of liquid like a river makes sound as the water ripples along and meets other solid bodies or when it is separated from itself and then meets itself like a water fall. We can certainly touch the liquid, though it may be difficult in case of mercury and dangerous like in case of corrosive acids. But with suitable precautions, it is possible.
Now let us see vapor state and gaseous state. The difference between a vapor and a gas is that in the case of a vapor it is in contact with the liquid. If the vapor is sufficiently heated, it becomes gas. We cannot see all vapors and gases directly, but we can see them indirectly. We can smell them, taste them (most of the gases don't have a taste but some like carbon dioxide react with water and produce carbonic acid, which gives a characteristic taste to the soda and when oxygen is driven off by boiling water and cooling it without much aeration, it tastes flat) and touch them indirectly (when a breeze blows, we feel it).One important difference between a liquid and a gas/vapor needs to be understood at this point. Though both are classified as fluid (flowing, not having a definite shape and so ever changing), liquids do have a definite density at a given temperature. So a given quantity of a liquid will occupy a definite volume at a particular temperature. Even if we provide a larger volume than that needed, the liquid doesn't flow to fill the total volume. But a few molecules will escape from the liquid surface and form the vapor above that surface. Of course, some of those molecules get kicked back or pulled back into the liquid and some other molecules escape in their place. This is called a dynamic equilibrium. The temperature and the vapor pressure of a liquid, will determine how much part of the liquid will evaporate Alcohol, which is called the rectified spirit has a high rate of evaporation at the room temperature. When the doctor or nurse rubs your shoulder with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol preparatory to injection, you will normally feel cool. That is because the alcohol absorbs heat from your skin for evaporation and that results in a local lowering of your body temperature.So, now it is easy to see what is meant by a spirit. A spirit is a liquid that evaporates easily. Since the rate of evaporation of a liquid at a given temperature is proportional to the average velocity of its molecules and is inversely proportional to the binding force between two molecules of the liquid, it is clear that a liquid with low boiling point, low surface tension will evaporate faster and the vapor pressure will be higher.Another meaning of the word spirit is that it refers to astral entities who may be visible but who can't be touched, for example, ghosts etc. They are lighter, more transparent and can penetrate between the spaces that are impervious to thicker bodies like our normal bodies. So, spiritual means light, less dense.Vapors of a substance are also less dense compared to a solid or liquid and the vapors can penetrate through small crevices which a solid or liquid cannot enter. So, the vapor has better penetrating ability, and thus indirectly better means of knowing things not seen or touched by heavier, denser bodies.If left open, the vapor from a vessel containing a liquid will go on rising and mix with air or if left in space vacuum, will continue to expand outwards forever. Thus a spiritual person tries to expand his consciousness further and further.A person who is all the time attached to his body and its surroundings - a person who is attached to physical comforts, sensual pleasures - see how we are connecting philosophical concepts of a person with scientific concepts discussed above - is not considered spiritual. A person, who feels tied down by these bonds - a person who wants to liberate himself from these bonds - is said to be spiritual.Spirituality expresses itself in several ways - a strong desire in the other worlds, a strong interest in ghosts and other phantoms, a strong interest in study of palmistry astrology and other occult sciences - a strong desire for astral travel - a deep interest in religion, psychology and other behavioral sciences and of course also through a strong interest in philosophy (literally meaning love of knowledge) - physics and other sciences all being branches of philosophy and study of Vedanta etc.
By: Swarna.Venkateswara Swamy
Now let us see vapor state and gaseous state. The difference between a vapor and a gas is that in the case of a vapor it is in contact with the liquid. If the vapor is sufficiently heated, it becomes gas. We cannot see all vapors and gases directly, but we can see them indirectly. We can smell them, taste them (most of the gases don't have a taste but some like carbon dioxide react with water and produce carbonic acid, which gives a characteristic taste to the soda and when oxygen is driven off by boiling water and cooling it without much aeration, it tastes flat) and touch them indirectly (when a breeze blows, we feel it).One important difference between a liquid and a gas/vapor needs to be understood at this point. Though both are classified as fluid (flowing, not having a definite shape and so ever changing), liquids do have a definite density at a given temperature. So a given quantity of a liquid will occupy a definite volume at a particular temperature. Even if we provide a larger volume than that needed, the liquid doesn't flow to fill the total volume. But a few molecules will escape from the liquid surface and form the vapor above that surface. Of course, some of those molecules get kicked back or pulled back into the liquid and some other molecules escape in their place. This is called a dynamic equilibrium. The temperature and the vapor pressure of a liquid, will determine how much part of the liquid will evaporate Alcohol, which is called the rectified spirit has a high rate of evaporation at the room temperature. When the doctor or nurse rubs your shoulder with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol preparatory to injection, you will normally feel cool. That is because the alcohol absorbs heat from your skin for evaporation and that results in a local lowering of your body temperature.So, now it is easy to see what is meant by a spirit. A spirit is a liquid that evaporates easily. Since the rate of evaporation of a liquid at a given temperature is proportional to the average velocity of its molecules and is inversely proportional to the binding force between two molecules of the liquid, it is clear that a liquid with low boiling point, low surface tension will evaporate faster and the vapor pressure will be higher.Another meaning of the word spirit is that it refers to astral entities who may be visible but who can't be touched, for example, ghosts etc. They are lighter, more transparent and can penetrate between the spaces that are impervious to thicker bodies like our normal bodies. So, spiritual means light, less dense.Vapors of a substance are also less dense compared to a solid or liquid and the vapors can penetrate through small crevices which a solid or liquid cannot enter. So, the vapor has better penetrating ability, and thus indirectly better means of knowing things not seen or touched by heavier, denser bodies.If left open, the vapor from a vessel containing a liquid will go on rising and mix with air or if left in space vacuum, will continue to expand outwards forever. Thus a spiritual person tries to expand his consciousness further and further.A person who is all the time attached to his body and its surroundings - a person who is attached to physical comforts, sensual pleasures - see how we are connecting philosophical concepts of a person with scientific concepts discussed above - is not considered spiritual. A person, who feels tied down by these bonds - a person who wants to liberate himself from these bonds - is said to be spiritual.Spirituality expresses itself in several ways - a strong desire in the other worlds, a strong interest in ghosts and other phantoms, a strong interest in study of palmistry astrology and other occult sciences - a strong desire for astral travel - a deep interest in religion, psychology and other behavioral sciences and of course also through a strong interest in philosophy (literally meaning love of knowledge) - physics and other sciences all being branches of philosophy and study of Vedanta etc.
By: Swarna.Venkateswara Swamy
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