Vedas

Dec

2013

MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK-4

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This section of the blog presents a message of Bhagawan Baba every week. Mostly, it is the form of a question that is answered by Bhagawan, giving us the correct understanding and interpretation of a concept or a term or a practice. So watch out every Sunday for a special message from Bhagawan Baba that could serve as your driving force throughout the week. Wish you a happy week!!

The audio clip of the message has a name that adopts the following code: Title relating to the message, Duration of the clip, Year-Month-Date of the Clip. Below the title is the English translation of the message. Below the English translation is the audio player.

21 April to 27 April 2014

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

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

There is a need for undertaking physical effort or exercises. That is why it is said that the one who puts in krushi(efforts) becomes a rishi (saint). It is necessary to follow a daily routine that includes studies, games, sports, prayers, etc. to keep the body fit. Health is wealth. Health is very essential for happiness. For health, games are very important. While playing games, we must follow the right path and protect the rules. We must not waste time. God being the very embodiment of time, we must experience happiness through action (utilization of time with proper action).

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

14 January 1989

14 April to 20 April 2014

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

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

Many of you would have studied the epic Bhagavatham. In it, there is a story about a person named Dundhubhi. Students should get up between 4 am and 5 am and complete their morning ablutions, have their bath and engage themselves in their studies. Bhagavatham refer to those who get up, have their bath and go about their morning activities between 4 am and 5 am as those who have had Rishi Snaanam (saintly bath). Those who take their bath and perform morning prayers between 5 am and 6 am are referred to as those who have had Maanava Snaanam(human bath). Bath taken after 7 am is referred to as the Raakshasa Snaanam (demonic bath). Dundhubhi used to take his bath after 7 am. That is, he used to waste away and misuse the sacred Brahma Muhurtam time.

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

14 January 1989

07 April to 13 April 2014

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

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

We keep saying, “meditation, meditation”. What meditation are we doing? We close our eyes and sit comfortably. However, the mind keeps wandering around to some washerman’s house or bazaar. Instead of performing mediation in this manner, it is better to engage in action, in service and undertake social work. Without knowing the secret of meditation, merely closing your eyes and sitting for any period of time will only bring you sleep but will never bring you Samadhi (true meditative state). Therefore, first of all, we need to understand what the mind is. Only then, we can control the mind.

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

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

21 May 1990

31 March to 06 April 2014

Why should we entertain good thoughts and seek good company?

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

If we wish that good thoughts express themselves in us, we need to enter into the spiritual path. Without doing so, we can never develop good and noble thoughts. We must associate ourselves with good company. Only when we join good company, we experience the contagious “disease” that these thoughts are affected with. Right from inception, thoughts have this “disease” of contagious nature. If we join the company of people with bad feelings, the bad feelings will get into us also. If we associate with someone who has anger, then the anger will surface in us also.

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

Thus, we must join good company.

Satsangatve Nissangatvam

Nissangatve Nirmohatvam

Nirmohatve Nischalatatvam

Nischalatatve Jeevanmukti

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

Verse from Bhaja Govindam by Sri Adi Shankaracharya

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

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

24 May 1990

24 March to 30 March 2014

What should be our relationship with God?

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

I recently told the students three important points. Do not make an attempt to walk in front of Me. Don’t walk in front of Me. I may not follow you. Don’t walk behind Me. I may not lead you. Still, walk beside Me and be My friend. If you make an attempt to walk in front of Me, you may possibly direct Me also on the wrong path, as you do not know the right path. In case you try to walk behind Me and follow Me, you may escape from Me and go away. Walk beside Me; then there will be no scope to escape from Me or go along the wrong path, because I am with you.

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

11 October 1986

17 March to 23 March 2014

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

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

I ask a number of people, “Where is God, where is God, where is God?” Many people give the reply, “He is in me, He is in me, God is in me”. Some others say, “God is everywhere, He is omnipresent”. All these responses are mere spoken words. But how do we know that this is the real answer? This must come from experience.

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

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

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

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

17 February 1989

10 March to 16 March 2014

What is true freedom?

What is true freedom-1.55-1989 February 17

Many people, especially in the West, desire for freedom, the freedom to act as they wish. What is freedom? Does freedom mean behaving as you please, wandering around as you please? No, no. Controlling one’s senses is true freedom. One may wish to get married. But does getting married lead to freedom? No, it leads to bondage, not freedom. How can this be called freedom? One may desire to drink a bottle of wine. But, when he consumes the drink from the bottle, he gets intoxicated. Then where is freedom? He loses control over his mind. How can this be described as freedom? Merely living and moving around as you please is not true freedom.

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

17 February 1989

03 March to 09 March 2014

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

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

Love is the very nature of man. But we do not experience this love in an enduring manner. Soon after we are born, we love our mother. Once we grow and commence our education, we love our friends. Gradually as we grow in years and enter our youth, we love our wife (spouse). After a few more years, our love towards our wife (spouse) diminishes and we start loving our children. Once the children grow big and we need to assume greater responsibilities to nourish them, we start loving wealth. Thus, we keep changing the form of our love continuously. First the mother, then friends, then wife (spouse), subsequently children, following that wealth; this is how our love keeps on changing. But we must develop that love which does not change. The love of God does not change. We must make an effort to love God who is truth and eternal. Thus, in humanity, so many changes keep taking place. But In God, there is love that never changes. Such love for God, which is real and eternal, is called devotion.

17 February 1989

27 February 2014

Shivaratri Special

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

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

According to numerology, the word Shivaratri has four syllables in it – “Shi”, “Vaa”, “Raa” and “Tri”. As per the science of numbers, the number associated with the syllable “Shi” is 5. The number 4 is associated with “Vaa” and the number 2 is associated with “Raa”. These numbers 5, 4 and 2 add up to 11. This is referred to as Ekaadasa Rudra (11 Rudraas). Numbers are associated only with the three syllables “Shi”, “Vaa” and “Raa” However, these three syllables join together and give rise to “Tri”. That is, “Shi”, “Vaa” and “Raa” join together to form Tridalam, Trigunaakaaram, Trinetrancha Triyaayudham, Trijanma Paapa Samhaaram, Eka Bilvam Shivaarpanam. The triad gives rise to the fourth syllable “Tri”. Just like “A”, “U” and “M” join together to give rise to “Aum”, similarly, “Shi”, “Vaa” and “Raa” give rise to “Tri”. It is this triad that takes the form of the Ekaadasa Rudra.

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

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

07 March 1978

24 February to 02 March 2014

What is the source of Divine Bliss?

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

Embodiments of love. Man is filled with bliss, he is the very embodiment of bliss. Being the very form of bliss, he attempts to derive bliss from the external world, in so many ways. When your very form is bliss, if you search for bliss in the external world, how can you get it? As it is said, “Sarvatra Paani Paadam” – His Hands and Feet are everywhere. In the same way, God is in the form of bliss everywhere.

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

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

17 February 1989

17 February to 23 February 2014

What are the four practices of Ceiling on Desires?

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

We have instituted four important practices in Ceiling on Desires. The first one is “Don’t waste money”, because misuse of money is evil. We should not misuse money. The second one is “Don’t waste food”; food is God. We should not waste food. The third one is “Don’t waste time”. This is very, very important. Time is everything. Time waste is life waste. You are all wasting lot of time (outside the Ashram). You may sit together, read some sacred texts, sing Bhajans, or learn some devotional songs. But instead of this, if you roam around the roads outside, it is such a waste. Is it not, you tell me. Thus, you are wasting lot of time. Next, “Don’t waste energy”. You waste energy through seeing and through talking all the time. Therefore, you need to reduce unnecessary talk, unnecessary seeing and unnecessary roaming.

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

Don’t waste food

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

Don’t waste money

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

Don’t waste energy

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

Don’t waste time

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

17 February 1989 and 21 May 1990

10 February to 16 February 2014

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

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

Our entire life may be compared to a field of business (a limited company). If the temperature of our body (ideal temperature being 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit) rises beyond 99 degrees Fahrenheit then it results in diseases (like fever). Our blood pressure is supposed to be 120 / 80 mmHg (millimetres of mercury over normal atmospheric pressure). If this (diastolic pressure) goes beyond 90 mmHg, then it results in high blood pressure. Even our eye balls can see only limited amount of brightness of light. If it goes beyond a point, the retina will get burnt. Our ear drums too cannot withstand sounds of any decibels. If it hears sound beyond certain decibels, the ear drum will get damaged or will burst. Thus, our human body is like a limited company. To protect such a body we need to exercise certain limits. There must be moderation in the food that we eat, water that we drink, words that we speak and sounds that we hear. Our entire life needs to operate within certain limits. When we exceed the limits, we are subject to danger.

Ati Tindi Mati Haani

Mita Tindi Ati Haayi

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

Ati Bhaasha Mati Haani

Mita Bhaasha Ati Haayi

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

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

21 May 1990

03 February to 09 February 2014

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

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

Because the human beings get associated with dehaatmabhaavam(the feeling that I am the body), the aham(ego) makes it go round and round in so many ways (takes it for a real good ride). Distorted feelings such as “I am doing this”, “I am experiencing this”, “I have gained this victory” are on the rise day by day in humans.

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

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

29 May 1990

27 January to 02 February 2014

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

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

We experience the mutual interrelationship and interdependency of our limbs in our day to day life. Suppose we are walking on a street. The eyes are up and the legs are down. The eyes see a thorn on the street. We may not understand their interrelationship from outside. But they have an inner connection. We do not know how and when it has communicated? What type of phone or telegram it has used? But the moment the eyes see the thorn, the legs cross over the thorn and walk by. Legs do not have eyes. Then, how have they crossed over the thorn? The eyes have seen, but the legs have crossed over it. This is the close relationship that exists between the eyes and the legs.

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

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

09 March 1986

20 January to 26 January 2014

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

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

Every human body is a workshop. The physical body is like a machine. The physical body works effectively like a machine because it recognizes the role played by every limb of the body and the interrelationship that exists between them; and acts accordingly. In this machine of the body, every organ has a specific role to play in mutual relationship with other organs. It is not just a passive mutual relationship between the limbs; they actually share their joys and sorrows with each other. In this workshop of the human body there are many desires and attachments. There is unity among all the limbs. This principle of unity, i.e. the principle of living together, sharing and caring for each other, is taught by the human body. Once we introspect and investigate into this workshop of the human body, we would not need to look into any other workshop.

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

09 March 1986

13 January to 19 January 2014

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

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

You may think that we have started this Education in Human Values some 5 or 6 years before. I started this more than 50 years back. When I was in the house of Karnam Subbamma, I used to sing a particular song as part of the Bhajans.

Sathya Dharmamu Shanti Premalato Nee Nitya Jeevana Yaatra Saaginchu

Jeeva……

Sathya Dharmamu Shanti Premalato Nee Nitya Jeevana Yaatra Saaginchu

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

Karmayogame Janma Dharmambu

Deeniki….. Karmayogame Janma Dharmambu

Smaraname Maanava Marma Rahasyamu

Saadhane Bhaktula Saaralakshnamu

Sathya Dharmamu Shanti Premalato Nee Nitya Jeevana Yaatra Saaginchu

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

Remembering the Lord is the great secret,

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

Proceed, oh man, on your life’s pilgrimage

With Truth, Righteousness, Peace and Love.

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

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

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

09 March 1986

06 January to 12 January 2014

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

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

Mere listening to Vedic chants gives joy!!

Today we are neglecting the Vedas, making fun of it. We have no faith in it and consider it as merely some sort of chanting with no specific significance or use. Embodiments of love, it is ok even if you do not know the script of the Vedas, it is enough if you merely listen to the chanting. There is great happiness is mere listening.

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

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

18 October 1993

30 December 2013 to 05 January 2014

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

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

Happiness, prosperity and pleasure are not conferred on us by the New Year. This day too shall pass away like any other day; the same sunrise and the same sunset. Many people look forward eagerly expecting that the New Year will confer on them some good results. This is 100% negative thought. The New Year does not bring anything for us. Just based on the calendar, we consider this as a New Year.

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

29 March 1998

23 December to 29 December 2013

What is the threefold message of Jesus to humanity?

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

Jesus was one with a pure heart. To begin with, Jesus proclaimed, “I am the messenger of God”. Taking the physical body as the messenger, he engaged in tasks and activities related to the body. Regarding the body as a messenger sent by God, he offered his body to relieve the pain and suffering of the sorrowful and the downtrodden. He started spreading the message to the people though the actions of his body.

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

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

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

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

25 December 1982

16 December to 22 December 2013

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

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

Even in the domain of time, we have Satva, Rajasand Tamas. From night 8 pm to morning 4 am, it is Tamasic time. Even birds and animals sleep during this time period. This is defined as the time for the demons. This time period is very powerful for the demons (demonic qualities in man). This time slot is very conducive for carrying out Tamasic activities. Therefore, the 8 hours period from night 8 pm to early morning 4 am is Tamasictime.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

29 June 1989

Sep

2013

MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK-3

09 December to 15 December 2013

What is the inner significance of ringing the bell in a temple (any place of worship)?

What is the inner significance of ringing the bell in a temple (any place of worship)-2.29-1993 October 18

Bell serves as a visiting card to see God!!

There is great joy even in listening. It is Naada(Divine sound). There is great power in sound. We have bells in a temple. All who visit the temple ring the bell. Why are bells kept in a temple? Are they kept to wake up God who is sleeping? No, no, no. Those who do not know Vedam, regard this very Naada as Vedam and make God hear this sound.

Not just that. God protects one and all. He listens to so many prayers regarding so many matters. He may be lost in the thought of someone; He may also be engaged in protecting someone. In the modern world, when we visit somebody’s residence, we send in our visiting card. The owner will then come out telling himself, “O, so and so has come”. If we do not send in our visiting card, the important person would not come out at all. In the same way, when the bell is rung in the temple, it is like a visiting card to the great Lord. He sees, “O, who is this who has rung the bell?”

Thus the vision of the Lord has to be turned towards us through the aid of the sound. But that does not mean we can make any type of sound. It must be the Omkaaram that is the combination of Akaara, Ukaara and MaIkaara. That is the correct address of God! The bell is not to be rung merely to silence a child that is crying (using it as a plaything to divert the attention of the crying child).

18 October 1993

02 December to 08 December 2013

What is the correct method of chanting Omkaara?

What is the correct method of chanting Omkaara-2.34-1993 October 18

The Omkaaram must be chanted in a very pleasant, sweet and soft manner. It must sound as though it comes from very far, approaches very close and then goes very far again. The people from urban areas must have experienced this. When the plane is flying somewhere far off, you can hear a little bit of the sound. When it comes close, the sound is heard very loudly. Again when it moves far away, the sound keeps on decreasing. Omkaaram must be chanted in a similar manner.

Swami demonstrates the correct method of chanting Omkaara.

Omkaara has a spelling. In the case of God, we have the spelling G O D. In the same way, when Akaara, Ukaara and Makaaraare joined, they become Omkaara. However, we need not go by mere spelling and chant Omkaara as Aaa Uuu Mmm. This is not Omkaara.

The sound “Aa” must emanate from within. “Uu” must come from the tongue. “Mm” should emerge from the lips. The three should be united and there should be no gap in between.

Swami demonstrates the correct method of chanting Omkaara.

The three should be united and that is the proper way of chanting Omkaara.

18 October 1993

25 November to 01 December 2013

What are the nine heads under which Vedic knowledge has been propagated?

What are the nine heads under which Vedic knowledge has been propagated-7.34-1989 October 03

The Vedas were propagated under nine heads or titles. :

1. Sruti

2. Anuswara

3. Trayee

4. Aamnaayam

5. Samaamnaayam

6. Chandas

7. Swaadhyaayam

8. Gama

9. Aagama

These titles that have been given to the Vedas are embedded with lot of significance.

Sruti(hearing):

Srutimeans the disciple must listen to what the preceptor chants with all sincerity, repeat the same mantras with sincerity and thus acquire proficiency in recitation of the Vedas. Therefore Srutimeans listening to what the preceptor tells with earnestness and then reproducing the same sounds in exactly the same manner. It must be practiced only through hearing.

Anuswara (literally – a diacritic used in the Devanagari script as a nasal consonant):

Anuswara refers to contemplating on that which has been practiced by listening and repeating and developing the same. Thus, the inner meaning of Srutiis listening, practicing, contemplating and thus imbibing the mantras.

Trayee (triad):

Earlier there were only three Vedas – Rig, Yajur and Sama Veda. These were also called Apourusheya (authorless – anonymous, or of divine origin). Atharvana Veda actually consists of some hymns taken from the Yajur Veda and separated out. As these three Vedas were called Apourusheya, they were referred to as Trayee (the triad).

Aamnaayamand Samaamnaayam:

Aamnaayammeans constantly thinking of and practicing the recitation of the root principle or the root syllable “Na”. As the knowledge of the Vedas can be propagated only through practice (chanting repeatedly), it came to be known as Aamnaayamand Samaamnaayam.

Chandas(metre):

The next title is Chandas. Chandas has certain meanings. One inner meaning of Chandas is that the Vedas have to be guarded in secret and propagated with care. Chandasis another name for the hymns of the Vedas. SamaVeda is full of Chandas. As the Vedas is full of such hymns it is referred to as Chandas.

(The verses of the Vedas have a variety of different meters. They are grouped by the number of padas in a verse, and by the number of syllables in a pada. Chandas, the study of Vedic meter, is one of the six Vedanga disciplines, or “organs of the vedas”. There are several Chandas. The seven main ones are: Gayatri, Ushnuk, Anustubh, Brihati, Pankti, Tristubh and Jagati).

Swaadhyaayaam(self-study):

Swaadhyaayamrefers to the process by which the Vedas have come down from generation to generation, through great grandfather to grandfather to father to son, in genealogical succession. It is not just a matter of studying from a text. It is a tradition that has been transmitted from preceptor to disciple over the years merely through hearing. It is because this knowledge was handed down over generations as a tradition, it has been described as Swaadhyaaya.

Gamaand Aagama (to go and to come):

Gama and Aagama are the names given to the inhaling and exhaling of the Lord’s breath, which are the origin of the Vedas. All in all, the Vedas are the very embodiment of the inhalation and exhalation of the breath of the Lord.

The great sages who listened to these mantras as revelations from the Divine found the key to them in eight basic letters: Aa, Ka, Cha, Ta, Tha, Pa, Ya, Sa.

03 October 1989

18 November to 24 November 2013

What are the five types of knowledge?

What are the five types of knowledge-1.18-1989 September 03

So students, what do you need to do primarily? Study well and concentrate on our studies. Recognize and develop discrimination with respect to that knowledge. Make an effort to put this knowledge into practice, to the extent possible. I have told a couple of times, there are five types of knowledge. However, students today are ending their pursuit (of knowledge) with just bookish knowledge itself. Some students go further and achieve the level of superficial knowledge. But there is a lack of general knowledge. Discrimination knowledge is totally absent. How then, can one acquire practical knowledge? Therefore, practical knowledge is very important. Because of lack of practical knowledge, our education is very artificial.

03 September 1989

11 November to 17 November 2013

Why is this world called Jagath?

Why is this world called Jagath-0.59-1996 July 06

Jagath is nothing but going and coming…

This world is called Jagath. Jagath means Jaa + Gath, Jaa + Gath i.e. to go and to come, to go and to come. Everything goes and comes. Nothing remains permanently. Nothing goes permanently. Whatever goes, comes again. Whatever comes, goes again. That is why this world is called Nityam (transient). It is also called Sadasat (neither true nor untrue). It is thus referred to as Jagath.

We are experiencing this world in varied ways. It is not possible for us to leave this world. In this Jagath itself we need to see (have the Darshan of) Jagadeeswara (Divinity). Jagath (world) is the very form of Chaitanya (Awareness). This Awareness is verily the form of Divinity.

06 July 1996

04 November to 10 November 2013

Deepavali Special

What is the scientific significance for the practice of bursting crackers?

What is the scientific significance for the practice of bursting crackers-1.19-1988 November 09

Bursting crackers within limits has benefits too

There is a scientific explanation also (for bursting crackers during Diwali). The season that has just gone by is the monsoon season. Wherever you see, you find stagnated water and puddles of water. On account of this unhygienic environment, many germs and insects start increasing in number. Ill health starts progressing in humans because of these germs and insects. By bursting crackers, the fumes and the toxic materials kills these germs and insects. This helps man to be healthy and happy. Bharatiyas started all these festivities and practices with lot of inner significance.

09 November 1988

What is the scientific explanation for the existence of Demon Narakaasura?

What is the scientific explanation for the existence of Demon Narakaasura-3.29-1992 October 24

Narakaa was truly a planet approaching earth

There is a scientific history (for the story of Narakaasura). There are many planets in the sky. Many planets revolve in this universe. But the nine planets (Navagrahaas) are very important for the planet of earth. There are many more sub-planets too. In the Dwaapara Yuga, a planet called Narakaa was moving very close to the planet earth. If this planet would crash into earth, the entire earth would be turned into ashes. In fact, even if the moon that is so cool would come even a few feet closer to the earth, the earth would be turned into ashes. There can be so many calamities. The planet Narakaa came very close to earth and was about to crash into earth.

Witnessing the demon like planet that was about to destroy their world, all people started praying, “Krishna, Krishna, Krishna…”. At that time, the event wherein the planet Narakaa was destroyed and the world was protected is referred to as Narakaasura Samhaaram. Everybody considered Narakaa as a demon. Was any entity, which would destroy their world, not equivalent to a demon?

Earlier the chancellor of Germany, Hitler travelled around the world. In those days, even he was considered as a demon. (Swami sings a lullaby in Telugu, the lyrics of which talk about Hitler waging a war on Russia, and Stalin ready to fight against his army, which mothers used to sing in those days to put their children to sleep). Similarly, in the Dwaapara Yuga, when the planet Naraka approached the earth, they believed it to be a demon. Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakaasura, as is explained in the scriptures, and he freed all those who were victims of the demon’s atrocities. In other words, he destroyed the planet Narakaa and rescued all those who were to become victims of the planet crash.

24 October 1992

What are the four items required to light the lamp of wisdom?

What are the four items required to light the lamp of wisdom-2.06-1988 November 09

Light the lamp of wisdom in your heart

To light a lamp we need four items. One is the container, second is the oil, third is the wick and the fourth is the match box. Even if one of these four items is missing, we will not be able to light the lamp. All these four items are essential. But what type of darkness does this light remove? It dispels only the outer (physical) darkness.

But how can we light the light of wisdom? In order to remove the inner darkness we need the Atma Jyothi (light of the inner Self-Atman), the Jnaana Jyothi (the light of wisdom). To light this lamp also, we need four items. Vairagya (detachment) is the container for this lamp, Bhakti (devotion) is the oil, Chitta Ekaagrata (one pointed concentration of awareness) is the wick and Tatva Jnaana (wisdom of the Atman) is the match box. Without these four, we cannot get Atma Jnaana. For all these, Vairaagya (detachment) is the most essential. It is the foundation for all these. Without Vairaagya (detachment), acquiring any type of education, any amount of studying of scriptures or studying of the Vedas, is of no use.

The Vedas declare;

Na Karmana Na Prajaya Dhanena Tyage Naike Amrutatva Maanashuhu

Not by action, not by progeny, nor by wealth; it is by sacrifice alone that one can attain immortality.

09 November 1988

28 October to 03 November 2013

Who are our true family members?

Who are our true family members-9.23-1998 September 25

Satyam Maata…

Satyam Maata, Pita Jnaanam

Dharmo Bhraata, Daya Sakhaa

Shantah Patni, Kshama Putra

Shadete Jana Bhaandhava (2)

Truth is our mother, Wisdom is our father

Righteousness is our brother, Compssion is our friend

Peace is our wife (consort), Forbearance is our son

These six are our true relatives

Embodiments of Love!

Satyam Maata – Truth is our Mother. In this world, every individual has a mother. But in this creation, for all human beings, there is one Mother. We must recognize that single Mother. This mother – the Truth, is Trikaala Baadhyam – it remains the same in all three periods of time, it is the head of Trilokaa (the three worlds) and it transcends the three qualities or attributes (Satva, Rajas and Tamas). The physical mother may undergo change, she may change her geographical location and she may even die. But Truth as the Mother is always the same at any place, at any time and for any individual. Everybody must consider Truth as their Mother and it is necessary that they have faith in Her and follow Her.

Pita Jnaanam – Next, who is the father? Wisdom is the father. There are many types of knowledge: viz worldly, material, scientific. But wisdom does not mean these. Adwaita Darshanam Jnaanam. Wisdom is that which confers the experience of oneness (non-dualism). This wisdom is Truth. Vedas refer to this as Satyam Jnaanam Anantham Brahma (Brahma is Truth, Wisdom and Infinity). Therefore, Truth is the very form of the mother for all. Wisdom is the father.

Dharmo Bhraata – Dharma takes a different form for every nation, every religion, and every tradition. But for all human beings, for all nations and for all times, the brother who loves with a feeling of oneness is Dharma (Righteousness). This brother is the very embodiment of Love. It is in this context that right from the ancient times, in the country of Bhaarath, the Vedas have declared – Satyam Vada, Dharmam Chara (Speak the Truth, Practice Righteousness). So much importance has been given to Truth and Righteousness. Rama and Lakshmana being brothers set such an ideal for the world. At one point of time, when Lakshmana fell unconscious, Rama felt very sad. Rama declared, “Lakshmana, I may get a wife like Sita somewhere, I may even struggle and manage to get a mother like Kausalya, but I can never get a brother like Lakshmana again. It is because of having a brother like you, that the principle of Rama is shining so brilliantly. Therefore, Dharma is our brother. Dharmo Bhraata.

Daya Sakhaa – Compassion is our friend. Today’s friends may turn into enemies tomorrow. We have been witness so many such experiences in the world. But, we can never find a friend greater than compassion. A true friend is the very embodiment of compassion.

Shantah Patni – Who is the wife? Peace is the wife. Peace is the one that assumes the form of oneness and continuously shows unity in diversity, in all paths of life and in all living beings. Peace is the ornament of the Maharishis (great saints). It is the crown of the Rishis (saints). It is the royal path in the spiritual journey. Such peace is the wife (consort) for one and all.

Kshama Putra – Forbearance is the son. There is no other nobler son than forbearance. Kshamais Truth, Kshama is the Veda, Kshama is Dharma, Kshama is Ahimsa (Non-violence), Kshama is Shaurya (valour). In this world, there is no power greater than Forbearance.

Therefore, Sathyam (Truth), Jnaanam (Wisdom), Dharma(Righteousness), Daya (Compassion), Shanti (Peace) and Kshama (Forbearance) – these six are the true relatives of humans. Today, on account of losing such a mother, such a father, such a friend, such a brother, such a wife and such a son, the world is subject to so much agitation and disturbances.

25 September 1998

21 October to 27 October 2013

What is our foremost duty in life?

What is our foremost duty in life-2.04-1999 November 18

Embodiments of Love! First and foremost recognize your own Divine principle. Recognize the truth as to who you are. The one who recognizes His true Self can understand everything else. There are many new children here. You can recognize your true Self through many small ways.

What is this? This is my cloth. This is my plate. This is my body. This is my mind. This is my intellect. But who am I? We say, my body, my mind, my intellect, my memory, my senses, my inner senses; but who am I? When we say, “my body”, it means the body is different and I am different. Then who are you? We need to recognize this truth. Body, mind and all these are mere instruments. Getting attached to these instruments and thinking that “I am verily these instruments” is so ridiculous.

Therefore, the body, mind, intellect, memory, senses, inner senses, are all mere instruments. You are the Master. Master the mind and be a master mind. You must be a Master. You should never be a slave to your body, mind or intellect. Today, as man is becoming a slave to his body, mind and intellect; he is becoming a slave to everything. We must keep the body and the mind within our control and not the other way round.

18 November 1999

14 October to 20 October 2013

What is the genesis of the massive Grama Seva Project?

What is the genesis of the massive Grama Seva Project-3.45-2000 November 19

Grama Seva is Rama Seva

In the earlier years, welfare of the villages was always in my mind. But actively engaged in the projects on education, health and water, I gave up village service to some extent.

A month ago, when I was sitting on the chair, I saw a small piece of paper fallen there. I read the same. In that paper there was a photo of a mother and her son. The photo displayed their dead bodies. The mother could not bear the hunger of her son. The son came to her shouting, “Mother, I am hungry, I am hungry”. The mother replied, “Son, right now, it is raining everywhere”. This incident happened just last month. There was heavy downpour. Therefore, the mother could not even go out for begging. She said, “Son, because of this rain, I am not even able to go out for begging food”. There was no sign of the rain stopping. The mother wondered how she could feed her son.

Not being able to withstand her misery, she took some rat poison, mixed it with water and prepared a strong dose. She fed her son with it, consumed the same herself and both died. This was published in the paper by someone. The papers too always catch hold of such bad news and they never fetch for good news. Even if they get some good news, they do not pay much attention to it. People who are lucky to be in a position to get good news and report the same, themselves commit such tasks. They search for negative news in every nook and corner and report the same. Neither do they get the thoughts to publish positive news, nor do their hands work towards it. The fate of their life is the very cause for this. The feelings of their parents (in their upbringing) are the main cause for this.

I felt very bad. Chhee (an expression communicating disgust), this is the sacred nation of Bharath. This is the Tyaaga Bhoomi (land of sacrifice), Amruta Bhoomi (land of immortality). In this land of immortality, in this land that has acquired the name of Annapoorna (the giver of food), the mother not being able to feed her son with a little food had to kill herself. These feelings came to me. Immediately, I stopped all other work. We started cooking food and sending from village to village. I started giving joy and inspiration to the people in this manner.

Our students also are like gold. They have taken up lot of difficulties. They go around from morning to night (distributing food) and yet return to the Mandir with great enthusiasm. They went to each and every house in each and every village. They provided all sorts of comfort for them. From then on, I have been feeling very very happy!!

19 November 2000

Navaratri Special

05 October to 14 October 2013

Who is our true Divine Mother?

Who is our true Divine Mother-7.39-1998 September 25

Embodiments of Love, Satyam Maata – Truth is our Mother. In this world, every individual has a mother. But in this creation, for all human beings, there is one Mother. We must recognize that single Mother. For this physical world, in this worldly life, it is very difficult to understand the transcendental principle. For every individual who travels on the Pravritti Marga (outward or worldly path), it is very necessary to understand Divinity. Every person has a Divine mother. For those who follow this Divine mother, there will be no obstacles or problems. Satyam Maata – This mother – the Truth, is Trikaala Baadhyam– it remains the same in all three periods of time, it is the head of Trilokaa (the three worlds) and it transcends the three qualities or attributes (Satva, Rajas and Tamas). The physical mother may undergo change, she may change her geographical location and she may even die. But Truth as the Mother is always the same at any place, at any time and for any individual.

Truth is the Divine, magnificent, novel, ever new Mother. Everybody must consider Truth as their Mother and it is necessary that they have faith in Her and follow Her. Truth never changes. It assumes the same form in all three periods of time. Everything is created out of Truth. Being the Mother for everything (in creation), is Truth not your Mother? This Mother is eternal. She is nectarine. It is the great good fortune of mankind to have acquired such an immortal Mother. However, today mankind has lost such a sacred Mother – the Truth. The speciality of the worship we perform today is that we worship the Truth.

We consider the Navaratri as the Devi Navaratri and regard Devi (deity) as the Mother. Devi, Devi – what is the meaning of Devi? Truth is Devi. The name of the Devi (deity) is Sathya Swaroopini. Every human being must recognize the Truth and practice the same. We must never give up Truth. Separation from the Mother is a very difficult experience. Without giving up Truth, when we practice the same, we will have victory in every field.

During the Navaratri, we read the Devi Bhaagavatham, Devi Raamaayanam, Devi Bhaaratham and so on. We worship the Trinity of Goddesses – Lakshmi, Parvati and Saraswati. Who are these three? This trinity is also embedded in Truth only. There is nothing separate like matter and energy. Everything is One. Matter is energy and energy is matter. Without energy there can be no matter and without matter there can be no energy. Both are interdependent and interrelated. Therefore, it is a big mistake to refer to these as two. In fact, there is no matter at all in this world. Wherever you see, there is only energy, energy, energy – there is Shakti only. Other than Shakti (energy), no other object can be seen. That is why, today, as part of the Navaratri celebration, we worship Shakti (energy).

Where does this energy come from? Truth is energy, Dharma (righteousness) is energy, Peace is energy; within Peace, Forbearance is a type of energy. All these constitute worship of Shakti (energy). Truth is the basis for all these. There is nothing beyond Truth. All forms of energy are embedded within Truth. Therefore, we must regard Truth as our very Mother. Matru Devi – if we forget such a Mother, what will be our fate? We must never forget the Truth which is our Mother. Worshipping the Mother actually means worshipping the Truth and following the Truth. We must follow Truth, we must speak the Truth. Satyam Bruyaat – speak the Truth. Practice Dharma.

25 September 1998

What is the inner significance of worship of the Mother during Navaratri?

What is the inner significance of worship of Mother during Navaratri-4.59-1988 October 14

The mother is our true preceptor. The life of a human being who does not respect and worship such a mother is indeed futile. Therefore, it is the duty of every human being to respect and love the mother who is the embodiment of all powers. The festival of Devi Navaratri is an excuse to propagate this Divine message and to set several ideals to the entire world. The Goddess manifests in the form of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati.

Goddess Durga means the embodiment of power. What form of power? It is physical, mental and spiritual power. Durga is the very form of power who bestows on us these three types of strengths. This is what we refer to as energy.

Next is Goddess Lakshmi. She confers on us the wealth of Jnaana (wisdom), Gunaas (virtues), and several other forms of wealth that we experience in this world. Wealth or prosperity does not refer to currency notes alone. Jnaana(wisdom) is wealth, health is also a form of wealth, virtues constitute wealth, Vidya (education) is also wealth. Lakshmi is Sarvaaishwarya Swaroopini – the embodiment of all forms of wealth. That is why Lakshmi is called Wealth Swaroopini, Sampada Swaroopini or Aishwarya Swaroopini.

Then we have Saraswati. She confers on us intelligence, power of discrimination and Buddhi (intellect).

It is to present and propagate the glory of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati to the world that the festival of Navaratri is celebrated. Our mother is the very form of these three Goddesses. The mother is the one who confers all the energy and strength on her child. She loves her child and wishes for the development of her child into a prosperous, healthy, happy individual winning good name and repute in the world. She wishes that her son becomes a highly educated person with lot of intelligence and earns great repute in the world. The mother is the one who is the very embodiment of these three Goddesses – Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati.

14 October 1988

07 October to 13 October 2013

What is the correct form of prayer to God?

What is the correct form of prayer to God-1.12-2000 July 16

Many people visit temples. They go to the Venkateswara (Balaji) temple. They pray, “Swami if you fulfil my desires, I will perform Brahmotsavam(a special ceremony) for you. Swami if you get my daughter married, then I will perform your marriage.” Are you the person to perform God’s marriage? Will God fulfil your prayers / desires for the sake of His marriage? You are cheating God by offering Him such temptations. Praying to God with selfish expectations of some returns is no Love at all.

Without any expectations, (we must realize that I am) only one Atma, I am seeing my own Atman, I am talking to my own Atman, I am in the company of God; we have to develop and foster this oneness.

16 July 2000

Gandhi Jayanti Special

02 October 2013

Who planted the seed of Rama Naama in Gandhiji’s life?

Who planted the seed of Rama Naama in Gandhiji’s life-2.07-2000 November 19

The manner in which one dies is more important
than the manner in which one is born

Once there was a mother who was very strict and duly punished her child as she brought him up (Swami is referring to Putlibai, the mother of Gandhiji). Yatha Raaja Thatha Prajaa (as is the king so are the citizens); similarly Yathaa Adhikaari Thatha Sevakulu (as is the master so are the servants). The mother who had a very sacred heart had a maidservant who was also very sacred at heart. Her name was Rambha. Rambha protected the children very carefully.

One day, Gandhi came running to her. “Rambha, Rambha, I am feeling very frightened”, he said. Rambha drew him close to her and said, “Son, why do you fear? When there is Lord Rama the protector of all, why do you need to fear? Therefore, whenever you feel afraid, you chant the name of Ram, Ram, Ram, Ram”. Gandhiji kept remembering this very name of Ram, to the very end of his life.

Do we get such servants and helpers today? Those days, because such mothers and such maidservants were in large numbers, children too developed good qualities, good behaviour and walked on the righteous path.

19 November 2000

What is the meaning of the word Gandhi?

What is the meaning of the word Gandhi-1.08-1985 August 15

Nurture the intellect

In those days only few people associated with Gandhi and having formed the Congress party are claimed to have brought independence to our country of Bharath. But it’s not just that. Among our children, every one of them must become a Gandhi.

The meaning of Gandhi is “Gan” + “Dhi” i.e. the development or the blossoming or the nurturing of the Buddhi – the intellect. This is what is referred to in the Gayatri mantra also as “Dhiyoyonah Prachodayaat”. Be it youngsters or elders, they must broaden their heart (i.e. have broad mindedness). That is true spirituality. One thing in the mind and another thing outside – such crooked feelings must never be entertained.

15 August 1985

30 September to 06 October 2013

What are the consequences of harming and hurting others?

What are the consequences of harming and hurting others-2.55-2000 July 16

No one should hate anybody. Today in the world, on account of narrow minded feelings, there is hatred everywhere. One takes the life of the other. What a sin it is. It is equivalent to killing God Himself. This is very wrong. No one should hate anybody else. One’s hatred will hate one’s own self. You may feel happy that you hate somebody or you are hurting somebody. But that is not true happiness at all. That is demonic pleasure. In fact, make others happy; that will give you true happiness. That happiness is verily your true form.

Do not hurt anybody. You may harm somebody today and consider that as your nature. But tomorrow (in the future) someone else will come who will harm you. What will be your fate then? Therefore, we must take care not to hurt anybody even without our knowledge. These days, this has become a big fashion. Hurting others has become a fashion, causing harm to others has become a fashion, killing others has become a fashion. Is it such a great act to kill somebody? Even an insect can kill a person. There is no greatness is killing somebody. Greatness lies in bringing life to somebody, in protecting others.

If we go on killing others, what happens to our life ultimately? Finally, you too will die. How? Based on the actions undertaken by you, the fruits of those very actions will come to you as the reason for your death. Therefore, embodiments of Love, one can never escape Reaction, Resound and Reflection. You may feel happy that you have escaped (from your bad actions) today; but tomorrow or the day after (in the future) you will receive the fruits of your actions. You can never escape this. Do good and you will experience goodness. Do not get disappointed that you have not experienced good results immediately; wait for a while, you will surely receive the good fruits of your actions.

No man can ever escape the results of his actions. However, prayers can help to some extent when you are going through the bad consequences of your actions. That is gratitude. You must express gratitude. You must show gratitude and practice the same. Krutaghnaghnaaya Namah (Salutations to the annihilator of the ungrateful).

16 July 2000

23 September to 29 September 2013

How do we manage anger and crazy thoughts?

How do we manage anger and crazy thoughts-1.30-1999 November 18

Kama (Desire), Krodha (Anger), Lobha(Greed), Moha (Attachment), Mada (Pride) and Matsarya (Jealousy) are animal qualities and not human qualities. Within a second you get angry. At such moments, take time. (Ask yourself) “Am I dog or man? Am I dog or man? Am I dog or man?” (Answer to yourself) “I am not dog, I am man, man.”

At times, your mind may start wavering, becoming fickle. At such moments, again take time. Do not be in haste. Haste makes waste, waste makes worry, so do not be in a hurry. We should not be in a hurry. When such crazy thoughts come to us, think like this, “I am not monkey, I am man; I am not monkey, I am man; I am not monkey, I am man”. Then your monkey thoughts will go away.

For every bad quality or disease that arises in man, the divine remedy is found within him. All medicines for your bad qualities are within you. Once you develop good and noble qualities, the bad qualities will distance themselves away. Never submit yourself to the disease of bad qualities.

18 November 1999

Onam Special

16 September 2013

What is the inner significance of the Onam festival?

(Onam is a festival celebrated by the people of the state of Kerala in India)

What is the inner significance of the Onam festival-5.41-2001 August 31

When the ego is surrendered, one achieves liberation!

Indha Pujyamaaya Onam Divasaa

Ella Janangalukum Paripurna Anugraham Asirvadam

(On this auspicious day of Onam, I confer my bounteous Grace and Blessings on all of you)

Emperor Bali was a very generous person. He sacrificed everything in the yajna (sacrificial offering) that he performed. To uphold the truth, Emperor Bali sacrificed everything of his. Lord Vamana visited him and requested for three paces of land. Bali promised to give Him the land, without a moment of thought. However, Sukraachaarya (King Bali’s preceptor) dissuaded him from doing so. He said, “Bali, O king, Vamana is not an ordinary person. He is very powerful. He is verily Lord Vishnu Himself! Once you promise Him anything, you must not transgress it. So, do not give Him any word.”

Bali replied to Sukraachaarya, “There is no greater sin than going back on one’s words”. King Bali disobeyed the command of his own preceptor and made a promise to Vamana. Emperor Bali struggled to uphold the truth. Thus, he was bestowed with all happiness and joy and was sent away to the netherworld. Being sent to the netherworld means having no more births.

On that day, Emperor Bali prayed to Vamana for a boon. “Swami, just as You have conversed with me today, just as you have visited the land of Kerala today; in the same way, You must come to Kerala every year and protect the people of Kerala”. That is why the people of Kerala have named this day as Onam and experience happiness in celebrating the festival as a symbol of Lord Vamana’s visit to their land.

Thus King Bali was a very virtuous person. Though he was born in the clan of demons, he had Divine feelings emanating in him. Because of his merits in his past life, the Kerala people were blessed with this festival of Onam. Onam is not merely about preparing sweet pudding and other sweet items and consuming them. We must recall the experiences that King Bali had with Lord Vamana. On this day, Vamana actually enters the land of Kerala. Considering Vamana as the Avataar of God, we must experience great happiness on this day of Onam. We must lead an ethical, spiritual and moral life. Satyam Bruyaat (speak the truth) – this is the ethical value. Priyam Bruyaat (speak in a pleasant way) – this is righteousness (the moral value), Na Bruyaat Satyam Apriyam (do not speak truth that is unpleasant) – this is the spiritual value. All these three are based on truth. Therefore, we must seek shelter under truth, experience a spiritual life, and perform actions for the welfare of the world.

In the state of Kerala, till this day, though it is known to be a communist state, every individual is so full of devotion. Even today, they follow the spiritual principles like having a purifying bath, smearing holy ash on the forehead, wearing a sandalwood paste mark, visiting the temples, etc. The love and devotion observed in them cannot be seen anywhere else. Kerala is a beautiful state!

31 August 2001

16 September to 22 September 2013

Why does Swami often chide us as Dunnapota-He Buffalo?

Why does Swami often chide us as Dunnapota-He Buffalo-1.30-2000 July 16

Dunnapota!!

Whenever I appear angry, I am only acting as though I am angry, but I have truly no anger. At such times, when I appear angry, I scold them (students / devotees). How do I scold them? I call them Dunnapota (he-buffalo). My scolding is just that. Dunnapota means he-buffalo. You are a he-buffalo, because you are doing any good work. If you really do good work, then you will become a good-fellow (not a bu-ffalo!).

My banging (scolding) is limited to only this! Dunnapota – all of you are Dunnapotas (he-buffaloes). Why? Because, you are not doing any good work. He-buffaloes do not bother even if it rains. A cow or a calf runs away when it rains, but the he-buffalo does not. It just stands at one place lost in thoughts. This means that, whatever criticism, blames, difficulties it may face, the he-buffalo remains just the same. There must be transformation in human beings. Only when there is transformation, they can be true human beings.

16 July 2000

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