Food for thoughts-Commentaries on Articles from Hindu Daily:

The following articles from Hindu were edited for clarity and addition of emphasis on text put in parenthesis, such as {{...}} (1), followed by a commentary which is clearly separated from the article by a line of stars:

ARTICLEs

Why the Lord takes incarnations

The Lord wants the Divine Laws, which He Himself has preached during various manifestations, to be scrupulously followed and upheld. Though He is compassionate and impartial, He would not like these laws to be transgressed. Such violations would call for severe punishment but the

Lord would not be so unkind and would give a just warning to those who indulged in it. When even this was not noticed and the transgressions continued without any let or hindrance, He would, after giving them a long rope, descend on the earth to punish the evil-doers. In the Bhagavad Gita,

the Lord firmly declares that He has come to restore righteousness as it has been trampled under foot by human selfishness and perversity. The Lord felt sorry when human beings, without knowing His exalted status, considered Him as one among them or equal to them. His condition was similar to that of gold which did not grieve when it was put into fire and melted or beaten with hammer by goldsmith and then cut into pieces. Its sorrow knew no bounds when it was weighed against some grain or other inferior metal. Similarly the Lord did not object to when He was asked to go as an ambassador to the Kaurava court or given the job of a charioteer, but He did not like His being equated with human beings, because He has indicated through scriptures and other works that all of us are His property and He wants to bring us into His fold. Like the king who wages a war when a chieftain under him does not pay the money due to him, the Lord manifests with His Divine Weapons and other paraphernalia to correct individual souls who deviate from the path laid by Him and also forget Him. The Lord is equipped with an army of esoteric terms which themselves constitute His body and they are auspicious and pure natured. This army is used for winning back the true devotees so that they can join Him in mutual enjoyment of Bliss. The Lord grants salvation to all who unconditionally surrender at His feet. He holds the hand of these persons and takes them to {{heaven}} (1), say religious teachers. The Lord has declared that He remembers His devotees and will not forsake them. The Lord's feet not only protect His devotees

but also Him as the Sakatasura episode testifies. (Wed. Mar. 24, 99)

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COMMENTS:

(1) Heaven -Is there a heaven? Usually people point towards the sky by raining their one or both hands when they want to address God or heaven. In reality, the omnipresent God is every where, but the personified God can only be right here on earth where we are. As we know that our earth is one of the planet of our solar system with sun as the closest star to us, similarly our solar system is one of the many solar systems of our Milky Way Galaxy, just like there are many such galaxies in our Universe and many such universes. In Ramayan, it is written, (1) "Udar Maaza Sunu Andaj Raayaa, Dekheoon BAHU BRHAMAAND Nikaayaa;" (2) "KOTINH (Karodo means millions) CHATURAANAN (Chatur means four and Aanan means face, i.e. Brahma -one with

four faces) Gaureesaa, Aganit Udagan Rabi Rajaneeshaa; Aganit Lokpaal Jam Kaalaa, Aganit Bhoodhar Bhoomi Bisaalaa." (3) EK EK BRAHMAAND Mahun, Rahaoo Barash Sat Ek;" (4) Bhramat Mohi BRHAMAAND ANEKAA, Beeten Manahu Kalpa Sat Ekaa;". All this indicates that there are more than one universe. Scientists neither confirm the existence of many universes nor they deny it because they are only able to see a fraction of our universe from earth and nearby. So the sky or heaven, as is called sometimes, is virtually infinite, there is no end to it. The omnipresent, omnipotent, formless God is also infinite. So they point out to sky when addressing God. Since the company of God and saints is so blissful, it is also known and called as heaven. In reality both the heaven and hell, or God and devil are right here on this earth and not up there in the sky. Even if there are other places in the sky neither we can go there nor they (inhabitants) can come here. Hence for us the heavens and God both are right here. If we are aware of this

we'll Love God and get heavenly bliss.

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Significance of Haj pilgrimage

Bakrid, a great Muslim festival of sacrifice, embraces the performance of Haj, a great event of annual concourse, taking place in Zil-Hajja - the last lunar month in Islamic Calendar, when Muslims from the farflung world of Islam, converge at the age-old place of Divine worship, namely Mecca, that houses the first sanctuary appointed for mankind, a blessed place, a guidance to the peoples casting aside all tags of identity of race, color, rank and inherited nobility - indeed a wholesome demonstration of Oneness of God and brotherhood of man. Prophet Mohammed (Sal) says: "The reward for an untainted Haj is paradise itself." Haj is made incumbent upon men for the sake of Allah, upon everyone who is able to undertake the journey. The Holy Quran enjoins upon the pilgrims that there should be ``no obscenity, nor wickedness, nor wrangling in the Haj.

And take a provision with you for the journey. But the best provision is right conduct. So fear me, O! Ye that are wise.'' Haj, literally means ``The repairing to Baitulla (House of Allah) to observe a course of devotion, as practised by Prophet Abram, who aided by his son, rebuilt Kaba (the

House of God) and restored its sanctity, by purifying it of all traces of idolatry and thus prayed: ``Our Lord! Accept from us (this duty), thou art the Hearer and Knower''. The basic requirements of Islamic faith are the Namaz, Zakar and/or Khon, Roza and Haj. During the farewell pilgrimage of Prophet Mohammed (Sal) God revealed in the Holy Quran: ``This day have I perfected My Favour upon you and have chosen for you Al-Islam, as your religion'', making thereby, the approaching end of Al-Mustafa's ministry. Al-Islam means ``the surrender to Allah'', a supreme manifestation of surrender that we find in that great historic episode, when Prophet Abraham prepared himself to sacrifice his only son, Ismail, begot in his old age which finds narration in the

Holy Quran. The Haji, before returning home, visits the sacred city of Medina, the resting place of Prophet Mohammed, deeply conscious of his universal mission to mankind, a deeply moving experience like the pilgrimage itself to offer his salutation to the Holy Prophet sent ``as a Mercy to all the words'' To establish faith in Allah and true worship and in the Holy Quran. Allah mentions, ``We have sent down to you a Messenger'' who rehearses to you the signs of Allah containing clear explanations that {{he may lead forth those who believe and do righteous deeds from the depth of darkness into light}}(1).

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COMMENTS:

(1) God always sends His messengers on this earth. Started with He Himself, who imparted spiritual knowledge to His devotee who later became a saint. Thus when a saint departs from this earth for heavenly abode he imparts the spiritual power (Ruhaani inheritance) to one of his devotee or any body deserving at his will. In the former case the other devotees knows the

spiritual master but in the later case the search begins a fresh from both (disciple and master) sides until they find each other. Saints lead those, who believe in God and do righteous deeds, from darkness (GU) in to the light (RU). That is why they are known as Gurus. However during the

tenure of any spiritual master their physical assets (body, “maths”, ashrams, land, other belongings, etc.) remain, so a successor takes over these "Jismaani" things and starts a "panth", a "maarg", or a way, sect, denomination such as Buddhism, Christianity, Kabir panth, Vaishanav panth, Sikhism, etc. The spirituality turns in to rituals, customs, dogmas, rules and regulations of any religion. The God shifts in to lower forms such as holy books, idols, temples, etc. instead of in to man and people. This very ignorance makes people to fight wars, dislike other rituals, etc. On the other hand knowledge and wisdom of Truth leads them in to light or God. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Desire increases with every gain

``Conquer anger by forgiveness, pride by humility, deceit by straightforwardness and greed by contentment.'' These golden words were revealed by the great exponent of Jainism, Mahavira, nearly 25 centuries ago. His sayings and other aphorisms of Jain spiritual leaders have been collected as ``Pearls of Jaina wisdom''. One among them says ``Victory over one's Self is greater than conquering thousands of foes on the battlefield.'' Another prescription of his is ``At the end of a day, an awakened person should contemplate as follows - what noble deeds have I done and what have I failed to do? What good acts remain to be carried out, which I ought to have but not accomplished?'' According to the teachings of Bhagawan Mahavira, knowledge is that which helps to understand the Truth, controls the mind and purifies the soul. The soul, says Jainism, is the begetter of both happiness and sorrow. It is its own friend when it treads the path of Righteousness and its enemy when it travels on the forbidden road. By acquiring knowledge, one can understand the nature of substances, by faith one comes to believe in them, by conduct he puts an end to the flow of the consequences of past deeds and by austerity, he attains purity. Bhagawan Mahavira (whose Jayanthi was celebrated on Monday) has said that deception, fraud, uttering falsehood and adopting malpractices in trade are the four animal instincts which drag the soul to sub-human existence. Anger, pride, deceit and greed are the powerful enemies which encourage a person in the performance of sinful deeds. One who is interested in the welfare of his Self should get rid of these four flaws. Desire increases with every gain, because the more a person gets, the greater will be his needs. What starts as a gram of gold, will end in the tendency and eagerness to end in millions of grams. Reference is made to the brilliant morals which Mahavira and other Jain canonical texts preached. He who gets rid of his delusion, will have his misery destroyed. If his desires are checked, his delusion will be wiped out; if his greed is rooted out, his desire will be destroyed and {{he who owns nothing, has his greed removed}} (1). Mahavira's clarion call was as follows: ``I forgive all living beings and may all humans forgive me in turn. I cherish friendliness towards all and do not harbour enmity towards anyone.'' All scriptures, more particularly the Jain works, say that {{a human being has no right to take the life of an animal or other small helpless creatures}} (2). Mahavira showed to the people the paths of ecstasy and prosperity. One can develop dispassion by seeing the defects of sensual life. His advice was that the tendency to resort to {{materialism should give room to spiritualism}} (3). (Tuesday March 30, '99)

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COMMENTS:

Dear Friend:

(1) If we consider ourselves as custodian or servant/manager of things/people around us instead of thinking that we own these things, we'll never develop attachment with these things and our most problems of desires, greed, anger, etc. should vanish.

(2) True, if we can't create a life we have no right to take the life. Some people thinks that parents create life, if it was so how come they not retain it when it leaves or ends. Parents create the body for housing the life, that-is-why we remain ever grateful to them. Even that body can not created until there is life in them. Once the body is created the (omnipotent) God infuse the spirit in it. Science knows every detail about a living cell but can not produce a single living cell because of not knowing and/or believing in spirit. Whereas, rishis, sages and seers of truth did blew life in matter, as the legend and history goes, for example: Kush (Brother of Lav) was made by Valmiki in to a living boy by blowing life in to straw (Kush); Ratnagiri's body was turned from white ants & dirt in to a living Valmiki by Narad; Ganesh's severed head was replaced by an elephant head, etc.

(3) There is no existence of matter without spirit. The cause and the reason, the matter exists is the spirit. As we make the house first before we start living in it, the matter is created first before life started. This is evident from the life of the earth as 4.5 billion years and the life of the living organism or tissue as 1.8 billion years. The spirit existed before all this matter billions and billions and billions (infinite) years ago and the spirit will exist after all this matter ceases to exist. Therefore, why not the materialism should give room to spiritualism? Specially when it has so far given, is giving now and will keep giving. It is just that we don't realise it. Unless we have God realisation we'll keep dwelling in materialism.

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Fri, 19 Mar 1999 12:36:57 -0500

Unique incarnation of the Almighty

One of the name of God is "Aja", which is generally interpreted to mean

that

the Supreme Being is birthless. This is a fact scriptures reiterate as

the

essential nature of the Almighty. But they also state that He assumes

different forms and takes births according to His will. Lord Krishna

Himself

has clarified this in the Bhagavad Gita, "Though birthless and

deathless,

and the Lord of all beings, I manifest through My own divine

potency....."

Even if His incarnations like Rama and Krishna in which He assumed the

human

form are treated as birth as He was born to parents, it is important to

remember that He chose to be born out of His will unlike human beings

whose

births are determined by their Karma. Man does not have a choice about

his

birth or death. Moreover the forms that the Lord assumes in His

incarnations

are only for the sake of His devotees.

It is said that the Divine name Aja has been interpreted by Paraasar

Bhattar as referring to His Narasimha form as this incarnation of the

Lord

was unique in many aspects. Compared to His other incarnations, in this

the

Almighty was not born in the conventional sense as it was an instant

appearance.

While the Lord could determine the time and manner of His appearance in

all

His other incarnations, in His {{incarnation as Narasimha}} (1) He had

deferred that choice to Hiranyakasipu, to redeem the words of His

devotee

Prahlada, who had with total faith declared that the Supreme Being was

omnipresent. Saints have waxed eloquent on the manner in which the Lord

waited to appear the instant Hiranyakasipu pointed to a particular

spot.

The manner of His incarnation, the peculiar man-lion form and the time

appearance all had to fulfil the conditions of the boon the demon king

had

obtained with the intention of becoming invincible. (Wed. Mar. 17, '99)

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COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Narsinha incarnation was for a short duration of time, just to save

His

devotee (Prahlad) by killing Harinyakashyap. Such incarnation or

"Avatar",

including those of Rama, Krishna, etc. are known as "Nimit Avatar" or

incarnation for limited purposes. Most people know only these Avatars

because they did and can do miraculous things such as killing Ravan,

and

Taraka, salvation of Ahilya, breaking Shiv Dhanush, etc. by Rama;

lifting of

Goverdhan mountain, killing Putna, killing Kaliya cobra, killing Kansa,

etc.

by Krishna; killing of Harinyakashyap, killing of Holika, etc. by

Narsinha.

These incarnations are special incarnations, unusual, and unique

incarnations. These incarnations only happen when the righteousness is

the verge of extinction and Lord's devotees are suffering beyond

bearable.

However, there is another incarnation, known as "Nitya Avatar". Very

few

people knew them -these were like Vashishtha, Durvaasa, Vishwamitra,

Christ,

Buddha etc. and many other saints. These incarnations are there to

maintain

and keep a balance of righteousness. There has never been any time

when the

earth was without at least one of the saints. Thus there is no time

when

there is no God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

God pardons the faults of His devotees

The scriptures enumerate the countless auspicious qualities of the

Supreme

Being. Among them, some are very important from the standpoint of

humanity.

The relationship between the Almighty and human beings brings into

focus

especially His qualities of compassion and graciousness. These make Him

ignore the faults of His devotees and play an important role in man's

redemption from bondage.

Even little acts of devotion or service to Him never go unheeded. The

Ramayana while depicting Rama's sterling qualities highlights these in

many

instances. Rama felt grateful towards those who were kindly disposed to

Him

and would never forget even a small help rendered to Him. But He would

forget and forgive those who were ill-disposed to Him.

Rama had asked Sugriva to commission his Vanara army after the monsoon

locate Sita after getting back the kingdom for him but in his new-found

luxurious life he had forgotten his promise to Him. Rama was naturally

upset

that he had not discharged his obligation towards Him as He was anxious

about Sita's safety. When He expressed His reservations about Sugriva's

silence to Lakshmana, he started in haste with bow in hand greatly

angered

about Sugriva's ingratitude.

Rama's forgiving nature comes to the fore in the manner in which He

pacified

Lakshmana, ``Surely no one like you, who knows what is right, will ever

knowingly perpetrate such a sin as indulging in the very thought of

killing

a friend... Avoiding harsh words, you ought to speak to Sugriva, who

stands

guilty of delay, in a conciliatory language, reminding him of the time

that

has already elapsed.''

It is said that the Divine names were a pointer to the infinite

auspicious

qualities of the Almighty. The name "Sthiraha" occurring in the Vishnu

Sahasranama is interpreted to mean His nature of ignoring the faults of

His

devotees. The name "Tat" in the hymn according to the commentary of

Parasara

Bhattar refers to His quality of being grateful for even a small

service

rendered to Him.

The concept of surrender underscores the Almighty's Lordship of the

entire

creation and hence when a devotee seeks refuge in Him, the onus of

granting

succour to him rests upon the Lord. This was put to test in three

instances

of surrender - Prahlada, Gajendra and Draupadi, when He had to act

instantaneously to save them from grave situations. In the first case

He had

to incarnate as Narasimha and in the case of the elephant He had to

rush in

person and the potency of His name saved the modesty of the woman who

surrendered to Him. (Thurs., Mar. 18, '99) ************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

(1) Krishna said to Arjuna in Gita, "I love those Yogis most who love

most." In love we do not see people's faults and forgiveness ensues

automatically. We have seen this in our daily life also that we tend

blow minor faults of people who do not love us quite out of proportion

and

consider these as very big faults, but we ignore and forgive even the

biggest loss caused to us by those people who love us. God pardons His

devotees because they immensely love God.

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The Self, source of eternal bliss

Man searches for eternal happiness in worldly attainments little

realising

that it is not possible to find it in them. The fulfilment one derives

from

material successes lasts only for a while. The scriptures point out the

ephemeral nature of worldly life and reiterate that the goal of human

life

is to put an end to bondage by realising the nature of the Self (Atman)

which is the source of lasting bliss.

Until a person understands the transient nature of worldly joys he

seeks

fulfilment from sensory pleasures and it is through scriptural study

and

association with the saintly and the devout that he develops a

spiritual

outlook in life. Then he learns to strike the right balance between the

material and spiritual aspects of life.

The Vedas have devised a four-fold scheme for leading a fulfilled life

the world. They postulate four objectives -Dharma, Artha, Kama and

Moksha,

which when pursued according to the prescribed method will enable a

person

to realise both material ends and the spiritual goal ultimately. It is

thus

clear that {{the Vedas do not prohibit man from seeking material

pleasures}}

(1) but they only caution that they should be legitimate and not

transgress

Dharma.

It is said that a spiritual aspirant must learn to distinguish between

his

basic needs of life and indulgences as the demarcation between them was

very

hazy. {{The pursuit of the basic needs}} (2) like food, clothing and

shelter, in most cases, becomes the sole preoccupation in life, if one

does

not know when and where to stop. There is no end to material pursuits

and

hence one must be wary of becoming a slave to them.

Those who are convinced about the transitory nature of worldly life and

want

to pursue the spiritual path must first shift their dependence from

worldly

bondages to God so that their faith in the spiritual goal gets

strengthened.

As this conviction takes root they will be able to lead a worldly life

without letting it affect them.

The analogy of a boat floating in water is apt to describe this

attitude.

The boat has to remain in the water to be of use but it must never

allow

water to enter into it. So also, man has to live in this world and seek

his

salvation without running away from it. What is required is a change of

perspective.

For one who embarks on the spiritual path the scriptures have

prescribed two

methods to realise the goal of liberation. The first is {{the path of

devotion about which abundant literature is available for guidance. The

second is the path of meditation (Dhyana)}} (3). (Fri. Mar. 19,

'99)************************************************************************

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Commentary

Dear friend:

(1) The man (soul) has to live in this material world (the body) until

realises His true nature -that is Atma or self or spirit or Truth.

Thereafter, he lives just like the tongue lives in the mouth. We eat

all

kinds of fat, sweets, and luscious foods through our mouth and our

tongue

tastes every bit of it yet it does not attach itself to these tastes.

Neither it can keep it there for ever, nor is the fat accumulates on

it.

Another example is of Lotus, which though remains in the mud but still

above

the mud. Hence, the Vedas do not, rather can not, prohibit man from

using

material things, however, one should never derive any pleasures from

seeking

material things, as these very pleasures becomes causes for our bondage

and

attachment with this material world and prevent God realisation.

(2) Basic needs of human being is very very limited. In reality, the

spirit

or Atma needs nothing. The life does need just enough to sustain its

living

only for one purpose -to know the spirit (the source of life). The

good

gracious Lord has already provided that need for sustaining any life up

its full life span whether that may be 100 years or any amount of time.

fact the food "Anna" for sustenance of life is already provided by the

Lord

God just before or right when He gave the life. Otherwise, He would

not

conceive a life in an already existing life fit for conception. It is

the

greed and lust which are prime causes of our suffering, not the

fulfilment

of our needs. An economist said, "Needs can be satisfied but the wants

can

never be satisfied." As the story goes, "A dying king called his

treasurer

and asked him, how much wealth he has in the treasury. The treasure

replied, "Enough for your next 72 generations. The king enquired, What

will

happen to my 73 rd generation?" As if all the next 73 generations be

born

lame and they would not do any contribution." The wealthy king never

used

his present to know the Truth and remained lost in worries of the past

and

future. Some one said, "Past is a history, future is a mystery;

present is

a gift, that is why they call it present." This is the moment one can

use

it or he'll lose it from the forthcoming moment and a moment will

surely

come when it is too late to wake up as that will be a very very deep

sleep.

(3) Devotion is a very intimate, personal relation of an individual

with

God. It can not be obtained from abundant literature; how can they

guide us

if we do not want it from our heart. They will activate our minds, and

may

even influence our intellect, but that will simply increase our ego

which

will never let us reach in the vicinity of the spirit or God. Meera,

Shabari, Gargi, Mohammed, Jesus Christ, Kabira, Nanak, Rama, Krishna,

Bahaullaha, Ramakrishana, or any other who has realised God has done so

due

to their guileless heart, sheer ceaseless devotion and intense love,

not by

the abundant literature and scriptures. What would have happened when

there

were no scriptures and literature. Many of these saints did not even

know

how to read or write. The other path is perhaps meant as the path of

knowledge (Jnana or Gyan), because meditation is one of the means of

devotion. It is said in Ramayan, "Gyaan Panth Krapaan Ke Dhaaraa,

Parat

Khagesh Hoi Nahin Baaraa; Jo Nirbighna Panth Nirbahaee, So Kevalya Para

Pad

Lahaee." Means, "The path of knowledge is (very difficult) like walking

the edge of the sword, it does not take long in falling from this path;

one got through it without any hurdle he only got the "Mukti" or

liberation." This shows that there is something beyond Mukti, as said

Ramayan, "As Bichaari Hari Bhagat Sayaane, Mukti Niraadar Bhagati

Lubhaane;"

means, "Therefore, thinking so the wise devotee always is attracted to

devotion and does not care for liberation." Actually, a devotee is

deputed

by Lord in this world to help people know the God, a true devotee does

not

want to be away from his God and want to take birth again and again and

love

Him. Hence, the earlier path of love and devotion "Bhakti Marg" is the

choice of wise. O learned man, inculcate the feeling of love, devotion

and

service in your heart and make this human life worth while by seeking

God.

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PS: Some of us might notice that over the past over one year that we

have

been having these articles and they are making repetition now more

frequently than before. I can only say that if these are good and

beneficial to us let there be so. We are not fed up of breathing

repeatedly, or eating every day after day, or wearing clothes, or having

day

and night every day after day repetitiously, why should we fed up with

this,

if it helps us? It's beautifully said in Ramayan, "BHOJAN KARIA

TRAPITI

HITA LAAGI, JIMI SO ASAN PACHAVE JATHARAAGEE; ASI HARI BHAGATI SUGAM

SUKHDAAEE, KO ASA MOODHA NA JAAHI SOHAAEE." Just like we get

satisfaction

of hunger by eating food, the "jeev" or life does not get satisfaction

until

it is united with God -its infinite source, the Atma

=============================================================.

Tue, 16 Mar 1999 12:35:13 -0500

The three 'Ds' one should observe

Whether a person is well versed in sacred works, or a hero who has

many

victories to his credit or a destitute grueling in penury, without

devotion

he can be considered worthless. A servant with extreme and deep

devotion in

his heart is worthier of veneration than a king bereft of it, says a

poem.

Having taken birth as a human being, if he fails to know his innate

divinity, life will become meaningless. Devotees may face all types of

trials but their attachment to God should never diminish.

Forgetting the task of purchasing horses assigned to him by a king, his

minister immersed in spiritual exercises and used the money in

renovating a

Shiva temple. Even when imprisoned for this "audacious" act, he

continued

his service to God and wrote a brilliant work. Later he became a saint.

Many such saints were born in India. Divinity, which blossomed in this

country, is not noticed elsewhere. Another saint, a weaver by

profession,

was once accosted by the arrogant son of a rich man and asked for the

price

of a sari. When this was quoted, he tore the cloth into two pieces and

sought to know their cost. The saint quoted half the price for each.

The boy

tore the cloth into two once again and wanted how much the piece would

now

cost and the saint replied that it would be one-fourth of the original

price. The boy realized his mistake, wondered at {{the honesty of the

"seller" and sought his pardon and got totally transformed}} (1).

Life in the world is impermanent; so are youth, wealth, wife and

children.

Only Truth and good will remain for ever, says Adi Sankara in a hymn.

The

entire creation of God has emerged from Truth and merges in it. The

Bhagavad Gita adds that having taken birth in this sorrow-filled world,

man

has only to worship God for His grace. All possessions which a person

has

acquired and cherished may be taken away in a moment by the tide of

time.

In a lecture, Sri Sathya Sai Baba said that people should cultivate

steadiness of mind. Man has all comforts and intellect. Yet he is not

able

to reach his destination. He should have a strong will. A small ant can

travel long if it has {{the will}} (2) whereas an eagle cannot move an

inch

if it is not determined to fly further. God's only thought is about His

devotees. Though there are numerous devotees, yet they are seen

experiencing

difficulties. They are no doubt immersed in worship, but what is

required is

a total surrender. "Do your duty; devotion should be steady; observe

discipline", are the three "Ds" one should strictly observe. (Sat. Mar

13,

'99)

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COMMENTARY

(1) Honesty is the best policy. Saints by nature are honest, we can

say

dead honest. When the boy -the son of a rich man, tore the sari to a

point

that it can hardly be used in half, let alone quarter pieces, it was

rendered useless yet the saint asked half the price or quarter the

price.

This is how we define a saint. They turn the second cheek when

slapped on

the first, as said by Mahatma Gandhi. They bless their adversaries

and

enemies, actually they have no enemies. Ramayan says about the

character of

a saint, "Saadhu Charit Subh Charit Kapaasoo, Niras Bisad Gunmaya Phal

Jaasoo; Jo Sahi Dukh Parchidra Duraavaa, Bandaneeya Jehin Jag Jas

Paavaa."

Means, "Saints character is an auspicious character (like) cotton,

whose

result is very fruitful (Gunmaya) without any of his (saint's)

interest;

(they suffer pain for others gain) cotton suffers the pain to loose

itself

in mending a hole in others (clothes), the world (therefore) revere

them and

their glory and fame is eternal."

(2) Will is everything. It is said, "where there is will there is a

way."

If the will to serve people is there, we find time in lunch time,

break-time, early morning or late night. It is said, "A busy man

always

finds time." Lazy don't. Will is everything. The whole creation came

out

of the will of God. We are born due to the will of God who initiated

thought in our parent's mind to have a child. Without will we can not

walk,

talk, write, or do any thing. The will triggers the mechanism to

initiate

thoughts of hunger, thirst, etc. Why not have will to know our own

selves.

It would be pathetic and pity to know that we know many other things

but not

our own self -"Atma", spirit, or God.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Man's action should be in pursuit of God

In the present age people think erroneously that they can be happy by

enjoying material comforts. They do not know that there is an energy

which

is very strong and that they are activated by its force. This energy is

"the

Lord" and every animate and inanimate things form part and parcel of

it. The

natural function of every human being is to render unstinted devotion

to the

Lord.

Every one of man's action should be in pursuit of God and for this, the

foundation is effort. The Lord has said that if one cannot fix one's

mind

upon Him without deviation, then he will have to follow the regulated

principles of "Bhakti Yoga" which will make him develop a desire to

attain

Him. {{This will help one to purify his senses which are always

immersed in

worldly pursuits}} (1).

In this material world, men are engaged in some employment but serve

the

master, not out of love. They simply do their job to get that pay check

for

material comforts. The master also is not in love with his employees

and

takes service from them only after paying for it. {{But when one wants

to do

spiritual service, pure love is needed and this can be got only through

devotion to the Lord}} (2).

How many people are aware that they have to do good things to gain

salvation

and not fall into the cycle of rebirths? An individual must also learn

that

with the passing of every day he is not growing younger and instead he

slowly dying. If he goes to seashore he can see millions of footprints

including his own and should know that they all have passed into

oblivion.

His being in the world is to only redeem himself, said Swami

Suddhananda in

his discourse.

If a man wants money, food, power and position, he will have to seek it

from

different places. But to be happy, he will have to find it through

meditation. Every one is looking for himself alone in the name of

religion

and philosophy. {{Happiness is not so easy to experience}} (3) and he

will

have to discover it. Unfortunately due to ignorance, many people are

not

doing it. They needed to do self-introspection and understand God by

worship

and true devotion.

{{The Lord has also explained the difference between the worship of the

undefinable, impersonal God and that of Absolute Reality}} (4). "Those

who

concentrate all their actions to the Manifest Absolute i.e., to Me and

worship Me with intent mind, will be rescued by Me from the ocean of

ceaseless rounds of re-birth. Rely on Me and you will attain pure love.

Even

if you are not able to concentrate, you can try and try again by

constant

intense practice. Then you can achieve your goal", Krishna said in

Gita.

(Mon. Mar 15, '99)

************************************************************

COMMENTARY

(1) Because that's what these senses are. The physical, material

things.

Even these physical senses also sense this physical material world due

the presence of the spirit; without spirit these senses, including the

whole

body, are useless, just like dirt -rather worst than the dirt.

(2) That is true; that is the service with smile, service before self,

with

no strings attached. If there is a condition of service it is a

business

-something in exchange of some thing. But, that is the service out of

love,

pure love -not the one like you scratch my back and I scratch yours,

not the

one like I raised my children so that they can take care of me when I

get

old. God is known only by pure love, unconditional surrender due to

total

love and devotion; as Meera said, "Ye To Aavat Prem Ke Mol." She

further

said, "Paayo Jee Me To Raam Ratan Dhan Paayo; Vastu Amolak Deeni Mere

Satguru, Kirpaa Kar Apanaayo." Means, "I got the most valuable wealth

-God,

my spiritual master has given me the priceless thing that he accepted

me and

gave his grace." What are we waiting for, then?

(3) Happiness is not so easy to experience because we try to get that

happiness from the dead objects. We are alive and how can a living

being be

happy from millions of dead things. Do we ever smile to walls and

stones?

But we invariably do that to people, humans, beautiful creation of the

Lord.

The beauty is then only in the spirit, otherwise don't we discard that

matter when it is devoid of the spirit? Just like only a live person

can

converse with another live person, the happiness of a living being can

only

come from the eternal living being. That will be the infinite

happiness

-the bliss from God.

(4) The undefinable, impersonal God is not of much use. It is like the

water in fog, mist, or dew. It can not satiate our thirst. Until we

get

pure drinking water -the God, we shall remain thirsty. That God is the

personal God which is Absolute Reality. We can touch, see, hear, talk,

learn, and converse with him. He is the ONE who motivates and inspires

to see the Lord we have in ourselves -the Atma, the spirit, the Brahma.

That is why Tulsi said in Ramayan, "More Man Prabhu As Bisbaasaa, Raam

Adhik Raam Kar Daasaa." Means, "More than God is the servant of God,

thus

believe I." Other wise it is very easy to worship the undefinable,

impersonal God "Nirgun Brahma". It won't say a word if you pour cold

water

or milk, yogurt, etc. in a wintry morning at 4:00 a.m. on a

"Shiva-Ling"

-an impersonal God, to worship that God; however, you will need nerves

to do

that to your father, or spiritual master, or anybody else you love so

much

to worship him or her -your son, mother, spouse, friend, etc. Why

can't we

do that when we can take any stone, any glittering paper for a symbol

"Om" or "Swastika" or "Trishul", any idol of silver, gold, brass etc.

any photo and start worshiping it as a God. Just because we do have a

part

of God in us. Actually the God is there in that paper or idol, etc.

also

but it is not manifested to the same degree as in humans. Ramayan

says,

"Nirgun Brahma Sulabh Ati, Sagun Jaan Na Koee; Sugam Agam Naanaa

Charit,

Suni Muni Bharma Hoee." Means, "It is easy to worship the formless,

undefinable God, (and) no body (a few) knows the live God; as the live

God

does such actions which are doubtful to even sages." Only a live

Krishna

can tell to a live Arjuna, "Worship Me, I shall rescue you, help you

obtain

salvation, pure love."

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Nature of the Lord's incarnations

The knowledge of the Self (Atman) which is elaborated in the

scriptures has

been revealed time and again for the benefit of humanity. At the time

creation this supreme Yoga was revealed in the form of the Vedas to

{{Sun-god}} (1) which was transmitted in the traditional method of

instruction from teacher to disciple (Guru- shishya). The same wisdom

was

imparted by the Lord when He incarnated as Krishna to Arjuna in the

battlefield, in the form of the Gita.

This reference is made by the Lord Himself in the Gita which provoked

Arjuna

to ask Him how He could have taught someone belonging to a different

age

altogether. By way of clarifying his doubt, Lord Krishna touched upon

the

distinction between His manifestations and human births by introducing

the

unique concept of Divine incarnation. While the rebirth of a bonded

soul is

referred to as "Janma" the Almighty's manifestation in the world is

called

as "Avatara".

In his lecture on the Bhagavad Gita, Swami Paramarthananda said that

there

were three basic differences between human births and the Lord's

incarnations. The birth of a bonded soul is caused by ignorance which

is due

to ego. The ego in turn is due to Karma, the result of deeds (good and

bad)

performed in previous lives.

The fructification of Karma results in Janma and this process goes on

and on

till the knowledge of the Self dawns when the bonded soul is liberated.

human birth is a downfall from the original state of the Self. In the

case

of Iswara who is omniscient He chooses to manifest whenever He feels it

necessary out of His will. So His incarnations are out of compassion

for

mankind.

As human birth is the result of ignorance worldly life continues to be

sorrowful, whereas, in the case of the Lord's incarnations His

omniscient

nature is not in anyway limited by a form. So there is no question of

bondage. The scriptures state that the bodies of all created beings are

made

up of matter but there is a difference between that of other beings and

the

one that the Lord assumes during His incarnations which is not made of

the

five elements.

The purpose of human birth is to work out the accumulated Karma of the

previous lives. The scriptures state that Karma can be exhausted only

assuming a body; Punya (good deeds) is enjoyed as joys and Papa (bad

deeds)

as sorrows. The Lord's incarnations are with the purpose of protecting

the

virtuous, establishing righteousness whenever there is decadence and to

achieve these two He destroys the wicked who cause obstruction to

Dharma in

the world. (Tues. Mar. 16,

'99)************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

(1) The Sun-god! Is there a God in the Sun? Yes, if the God in

omnipresent,

God is present every where -in the Sun, the Moon, the stars, or the

grain of

sand on the Earth, etc. But, could the supreme Yoga -Bhakti Yoga, be

possibly revealed to the Sun or the grain of sand ? Doubtful, rather

impossible. In the beginning, the God Himself was, as is even now, the

supreme knower of the all knowledge. When he gave it to Sungod, it

must not

be the same Sun as we see it today. This appears to be an adjective.

disciple who obtains the spiritual knowledge from his master, when the

later

gives him, becomes the master of that knowledge, just like a child

becomes

the father of a man. He is self enlightened. The light of spiritual

knowledge is different than the light acquired through knowledge via

senses.

The later is synonymous to the light emitted by a lamp -which is

dependent

on oil, cotton wick, pot, and a source for its light. Unlike the lamp,

the

spiritual light is not depended on any thing for emitting light. A

spiritual master has his own self contained light like that of the Sun.

Hence, said Sungod. It is just like we admire somebody by saying, "You

are

a gem, or you are a diamond." Does not really mean the person is a

diamond

or a gem. It simply means that the person is precious, highly

valuable.

Thus Sungod should mean any person having self realization having his

own

independent light -like that of a Sun or star. Then, "Veda" ,means "to

know". When a person has that spiritual knowledge he can write it in

the

form of a scripture. Thus it has been said , "Vedas came from God" or

"God

has written the Vedas." Of course, the inspiration always comes from

God,

but the self realized person speaks or writes it. There were many such

saints in the past who are still addresses as God. These are Bhagwan

Mahaaveer, Buddha Bhagwan, etc. Even today many people call some

saints

like Santh Saain Baba, etc. as Bhagwan or God.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Fri, 12 Mar 1999 12:23:36 -0500

Desire, cause of all human problems

{{Modern man has been "exploring" the entire universe and cosmos and

has

made several wonderful discoveries about flora and fauna. But what he

needs

to know is about "his own self" as to "who am I?"}} (1) He has not

"explored" his own mind and that is the reason why he is feeling

unhappy and

faces many difficulties. His mind is static and needs to "digest" all

the

problems confronting him. If a man takes unsavory type of food, it will

lead

to stomach upset. If on the other hand he resorts to the right

varieties he

will have no difficulty and in the same manner he has to assimilate the

idea

about God, himself, world, morality and ethics.

Everyone must know how to understand and appreciate the nature of the

creations of God. This will lead to appreciation of human mind and

body.

Most of the problems faced by the world were due to {{"closing" of

mind}}

(2). When two people fight with each other it is between two human

minds or

inter-personal fight.

There is also another kind of battle known as {{intra-personal fight

which

is between different parts of a human mind}} (3) . A man may be a

loving

father for his son or daughter but as a husband he may not be

considered

that good. He may be smiling outwardly but his mind may be burning.

This is

because he has been overcome by desires. If people are asked about

their

wants each one will give a different reply. If one is questioned as to

why

he is keen to get educated, he will reply that he is doing so for

securing a

good job. Another will say that he desired to earn a lot of money and

lead a

comfortable life.

So everyone wants to be happy; no one will say that he likes to remain

unhappy. But how to get happiness which seems to be the destination of

each

and every human being? If man gives up all desires and becomes

renounced he

will get real happiness. That is beatitude. But if he indulges in

worldly

life and cultivates {{desires}} (4), he will not be happy. Only man

becomes

desirous of worldly objects which in turn leads to agitation of human

mind.

One must not allow any force to "manipulate" his mind and succumb to

pressures for the possession of worldly things. For he will not be able

take anything with him at the end of his life. He must try to

understand

various problems and tackle them. He should not run away from them. How

this

can be done? He must try to understand the problems and train his

thoughts

on them and find a way out. The most vital problem is the thought of

"I" and

the feeling that "I am doing it." This feeling is a deadly virus. To

avoid

it one has to "explore" his mind and this will give him guidance and

help.

(Wed. Mar. 10,99)

****************************************************************************

***

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1)Would this not be like a lamp providing light to everyone but is

itself

in darkness? That is why it is not an eternal light. Man must have

light

both within and outside. A god realized soul is like the self

illuminated

and it only comes after we know the Name, or the Word of God. Tulsi

said in

Ramayan, "Raam Naam Kaa Deep Dharun, Je Dehri Dwaar; Tulsi Bheetar

Baharun,

Jo Chahansi Ujiyaar." Means, "Put the lamp of God's Word at the door

sill

of your house; you will have the light outside the house or within it,

you wish."

(2) Some body said, "Minds are like parachutes, they only function when

open." Close your mind and you know what happens to the person; just

what happens to a person when his parachute does not open.

(3) Is it not telling us that there is a God -the spirit, and a man

-made of

worldly things including mind, habits, desires, customs, rituals,

preferences, etc. within us. There always is a constant fight between

the

God and the man (or devil) within us. If we are close to God we win

over

the devil else the devil wins over us and prevent us to know God. Every

mind

gets two thoughts -known as "Sankalpa" and "Vikalpa", or good thought

and

bad thought, as a result of feed back from it's any or all of ten

senses or

"Indriyaa". The mind can not make a decision so present the thought to

the

wisdom which selects one and return back to mind which then acts

through the

same indriyaas. When the "Buddhi" or wisdom gets pious due to its

association with Godly people it makes the right selection else a wrong

decision results.

(4) Desires are all generated by our mind who controls all ten senses.

Desire to know God is very good, whereas, desire to possess worldly

things

is very bad. Our desires turn in to our liking, which turns in to our

love

for them. We say I love this poem, or that food, or this fellow.

Someone

has said, "There are three kinds of Love: First, love for material

things.

This love eventually turns a person in to matter like. The person

behaves

like a matter and eventually becomes the matter. This is the most

inferior

type of love. Second, love for people. This is better than the

type, because love for humans has a probability to either drive one

closer

to matter (which humans are with their bodies, clothes, watches,

eyeglasses,

expensive autos, furniture, homes, etc.) or five one closer to God (as

every

human has that live "Atma" is God or soul in them). The third type of

love

is love for God. this is the supreme type. In this people resist

going

back to humanly love and certainly not to love for material. People

with

this love love everybody because of their having God in them. They do

not

even see material possession of people. They do not even see the gross

body

(Sthul shareer) of people with their gender, age, etc., they see the

subtle

body (Suksham shareer) and at times they see causal body (Kaaran

shareer)

-why did IT became so? They are the saints who declare, "Prem Prem Sab

Koee

Kahe, Prem Na Jaane Koee; Jis Vidh Saain Milan Ho, Prem Kahaave Soee."

Means, "Everybody says love but no body knows the Love, the way we can

meet

God is only known as (True) Love. They do not consider desire or

longing

for material things and human as love. Is it not true, as said in

Upnishad,

that "After obtaining an ocean of water, the interest a man has in a

pond of

water is the interest a person will have in worldly material things and

humans after obtaining God?"

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Saint who sang the glory of Rama

The lives of spiritual leaders, who by virtue of their intense penance

and

severe austerities had secured powers to go near God and walk and talk

with

Him, kindle hope in many of us as to why we too should not try to adopt

such

measures and witness the vision of God or experience His presence

within us.

It is certainly possible to do so provided we too display similar

unshakeable faith in the Divinity's supremacy and resort to steps like

chanting and meditation. By constant utterance of a Mantra taught by a

bonafide spiritual master or guide it will be easier to approach the

Almighty as {{it (the mantra), possesses energy which will be released

when

it is repeated with full confidence in its efficacy}} (1).

Even two centuries ago, living amidst us, having meditated on Rama

using a

special mantra prescribed by a saint, a dignitary who had developed an

aversion to worldly pleasures but was deeply attached to the Lord, saw

Him

in flesh and blood. He had chanted the name millions of times which

equipped

him with the strength to remain totally dedicated to Him even in the

midst

of adverse circumstances. The path he chose was to sing compositions on

Rama, each one of which contained the qualities of mercy and compassion

Rama. Once as he was returning home after his bath, this saint was

blinded

by a flash of light (like a lightning) and there he saw Rama with His

brother, young and dazzling, holding bow and arrow, to protect the

special

religious rite of a sage who had led them to a forest. {{This saint was

none

other than Thyagaraja who saw God through the path of adoring Him by

the

rendering of devotional songs. He is believed to be the manifestation

Valmiki, who had written the Ramayana}} (2).

Even as it is possible to dig out fresh gems of thoughts as one makes

in-depth study of the epic, every song of this saint is soaked in

philosophic truths and ideas. For instance, he says in a composition

that

the number of devotees having drunk the elixir of the name of Rama,

having

increased and thereby becoming eligible to get liberation, the "Yamraj"

(king of Death) was worried as there was decrease in people brought to

his

kingdom.

The reason for this composer-saint to choose Rama as his idol was

because of

His adherence to virtue, His rare and admirable qualities and His zeal

remain steadfast to values. In another song he refers to the role of a

guide

as one who can clear the shrubs which have grown in the caves of the

hearts

of his disciples. By uttering the name of Rama the sins that have

accrued

will get flushed out and there will be no chance of any one again

entering

inside. (Thurs. Mar. 11,

'99)************************************************************************

******

Dear Friend:

(1) The Mantra does not possess any energy, but the spiritual power

descends

down in to the person who meditate on it. It is the person's energy

due to

his or her increased will power, concentration, and meditation, which

surface up in to the visible energy. The fire is there in a piece of

wood

but of no use until it (the piece of wood) is broken in to two and

rubbed

against each other constantly that it will ignite the fire or it is

lighted

by another burning piece of wood. That fire is useful in cooking your

meals, or burning your Karma -both good and bad. The fire each one of

has in ourselves is of no use and waste in worldly things, until we

come

across a burning fire and light up our stick with it, or until we go

through

the penance and austerities to ignite that fire in us. Mantra is an

advice

we get from consultation or "Mantranaa" with a spiritual master. It

also called "Updesh". Thus it is utterly important to have Updesh from

perfect spiritual master in order to have God realization. There is

none

who has realized God without a Guru and from the past history and

experience

it may be safely stated that perhaps none will realize God without a

Guru.

(2) There were several saints who sang the glory of Rama. These are

notably

Tulsi, Valmiki, etc. However, the Rama whom they knew was certainly

not

that Rama -the son of Dasharath, or the king of Ayodhya. It was the

omnipresent, omnipotent God -the Rama, which dwells everywhere, in

every

human, which manifested in a particular person through whom these

saints got

the God realization. Narhariji was the Rama for Tulsi; Narad was the

Rama

for Valmiki. Once you know the Truth, you can sing that Truth using

any

name -may it be Rama, or Krishna, or Christ, or Allah, etc. Time is an

important factor. We can know Rama -the son of Dasharatha, who was

born

some hundreds of thousands of years ago. How can we like or love him?

Ramayan it is said, "Jaane Binu Na Hoi Parteetee, Binu Parteeti Hoi

Nahin

Preetee; Preeti Binaa Nahin Bhagati Didhaee, Jimi Khagpati Jal Ke

Chiknaaee." Means, "Without knowing (someone) one can not recognize

him,

without recognition one cannot love him; without love the devotion can

not

get stronger, just like without water how can the grease go away."

Thus,

the fact is that without knowing Rama one cannot sing the glory of

Rama.

They (saints) knew it better that without Guru they could not have

known God

-the Rama, as said in Ramayan, "Binu Gur Hoi Ki Gyaan, Gyaan Ki Hoi

Biraag

Binu; Gaavahin Bed Puraan, Sukh Ki Lahia Hari Bhagati Binu." Means,

"One

can not have wisdom or self realization without a Guru, (and) without

longing and intense love for him one can not have self realization; all

Vedas and Puraans (a scripture) sing that glory, how can one be happy

"Sukhee" without (love and) devotion to God."

With best wishes

sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Three ways open for human beings

A human being is privileged to have been shown three pathways. {{If by

his

thoughts, words and deeds, he puts others into trouble, he will be

destined

to go to the place where he will receive due punishment. If he works

for

others' welfare and acts with his conscience, he will receive rewards

but he

will again be made to enter the cycle of re-birth}} (1). When he

resorts to

the path of devotion in a spirit of non-attachment and confines himself

the Law of the Divine, he will secure liberation. Hence saints in their

teachings have laid enormous emphasis on cultivating devotion for which

the

easy step is to be intimately associated with such holy men who will

prescribe a Divine name meditating on which he can retain the vision of

God

within and refrain from indulging in sinful acts.

Saint Tulsidas has said that devotion, the source of all well- being

and

happiness, can be generated within, by associating with pious persons

who

will not do anything contrary to the Law of Righteousness. Gita says it

possible to realize God only through this stairway and by meditating on

His

Holy name. Without devotion, man's life is purposeless and can be

compared

to clouds which can bring no rain.

Enlightened spiritual guides have left a rich treasure. By finding out

how

they had conducted themselves, we can derive knowledge about the ways

realize God. But to understand the mystical energy that is inside us

and to

adopt the spiritual exercises necessary for us, we have to approach a

spiritual guide who can lead us on the suitable safe highway. Once Guru

Nanak went to Mecca and slept with his feet in the direction of the

"Qaba".

An infuriated priest condemned the "atrocious" act but Nanak replied,

"Please turn my feet in any direction where the Lord does not exist."

Asked

for an introduction about himself, the Sikh leader said, "If I say I am

Hindu, it will annoy Muslims. To say I am a Muslim will be a lie. My

body is

made of five elements (earth, water, fire, air and ether). The ray of

divine

light exists inside this frame which has been given the name of Nanak".

What is man's eternal {{religion}} (2)? Has the child inside the womb

any

caste or religion? What lies ahead after death and where does the soul

transmigrate? The spiritual master can unveil the secrets of life and

can

help a sincere disciple to establish a bridge between himself and God.

Hence, the stress is laid on "Sat Sang" or association with God's

messengers, said Swami Musafir Anand in a lecture explaining what

"Manav

Dharma" (Man's charter of duties) signifies. Spiritual progress is the

core

of the message of all religions. (Fri. Mar. '12. '99)

********************************************************

Comment:

(1) We have a saying, "What goes around comes around." The Bible says,

"Do

unto others as want to do unto you." All scriptures and the law of

Karma

"Actions and its effects" further substantiate it. If we serve our

parents,

we'll be served by our children. If we helped others, others will help

us.

Whatever a man does -good or bad, he gets its result -reward or

punishment.

It has been like this ever since the creation, we just do not realize

it.

(2) True religion of the man is to know God, to be united with God.

That is

what re-legion means. All these so called religions -Hinduism, Islam,

Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikkhism, Sufism, etc. (any other

"isms"),

are merely sects, cults, different beliefs and faiths. A person

believes in

always speaking truth, in being honest, and making a clean simple

living,

moves in to a society where the whole environment is of dishonesty,

telling

lies, and complex unchristian living, then there is all possibilities

that

this person may change his beliefs and start lying, or be dishonest,

etc. to

mix with the society. thus his beliefs changes. Similarly these co

called

religions changes from place to place and time to time depending upon

circumstances. Moreover, all these so called religions are for a

living

person. Dead people do not have these, similarly people before their

birth

do not have theses. Thus these are all not true religions because they

not fit our definition of truth, which is eternal, changeless, ever

pervading. Therefore, the true religion is the religion of mankind.

If we

are not a good human, we can never be a good Moslem, or a Hindu, or

Christian, etc.

There is a vast difference between acquired knowledge and the inherent

wisdom the soul has. A new born child does not know if he or she is

Hindu

or Christian, he or she acquires it from the environment he or she is

in.

They see their parents worship in a particular way -call it Hindu way,

Moslem way, etc. and they register that through their senses an starts

grabbing that way, until after they get the wisdom to know the Truth.

They

then get glimpse of the Truth and realize IT. God realization is

nothing

but knowing our own selves, the spirit, soul. And the SPIRIT is no

Hindu,

Moslem, etc. IT has no gender, no age, no sects, no cults. IT is

purely a

small part of that infinite spirit or GOD.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Tue, 9 Mar 1999 12:47:45 -0500

ARTICLE

Concepts of joy and sorrow

Control of mind and the five Senses are the prerequisites for

God-realization as they are considered to be the sources of all evils.

a tortoise which draws all its limbs inside the shell when it is

attacked by

its enemies, one should keep under check the five foes within. This

advice

was tendered by none other than Kapila Muni, who is an incarnation of

the

Supreme Being. Though not one of the main manifestations of the Lord,

which

are 10 in number, he is considered as the unique repository of all

Vedas.

The sage's mother, Devahuti, who spent all her early years in the

vortex of

family life, wanted to gain real knowledge and {{sought the same from

her

son}} (1). The conversation between the two centers round what is true

happiness and sorrow. It also reveals the three principles - the

enjoyer,

the enjoyed and the real authority that allows enjoyment. But opinions

may

differ about the enjoyment - happiness and sorrow.

What is joy for one may not be the same for another. Even Rama and Sita

held

different views about these concepts of pleasure and distress. When

Rama was

about to leave for the forest, Sita wanted to accompany Him, but the

emperor's son, trying to persuade the Divine Mother to stay on in

Ayodhya,

told Her that She would not be able to withstand the hardships that

would be

encountered there. Then Sita queries the Lord as to what was meant by

paradise and hell. The Lord replied that in the former place one could

enjoy

all comforts. The hell would be the place where sinners would be

severely

punished for their past misdeeds. Analogous to these (heaven and hell)

was

spending life in a palace and in the forest. But Sita differed from the

Lord

and told Him that even the palace, with all its comforts, would be like

hell

for Her if the Lord was not there. Forest, with all its discomforts

scorching heat, thorny bushes and dangerous animals would be like

heaven for

Her as She would have Her husband there to protect Her from all evil

forces.

Likewise Kapila told his mother that if an individual soul was in the

company of the Supreme Soul, it would be all bliss for it and if it was

separated from the Almighty its grief would be limitless. The concepts

joy and sorrow will not only vary from person to person but they will

also

change in respect of the same person during different times. What was

happiness in one's youth might turn into sorrow in his old age. {{So

what a

man desiring to obtain Bliss should do is to control the mind and the

Senses. Only when the mind becomes pure through self-control, good

deeds and

right action, man would be able to reach his destination - the Holy

Feet of

the Lord}} (2). (Sat., Mar. 06, '99)

***************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

(1) It is said in Vedas, "Let knowledge flow to us from all corners."

Knowledge is not a copy right of any one person. It is irrespective of

some

one's age. One can learn it at any age and one can teach it (to

someone)

at any age. The only prerequisite is that the person must know it

before he

or she can impart it to some one.

(2) If we try to resist the temptation of the senses and mind, we will

always have their awareness and it will be very hard, if not

impossible, to

control these. But the easy way is that if we use these (senses and

mind)

in Love and service to God, we will not have any time left for these

senses

and mind to wander on millions of worldly things. Then once a sense

gratifying idea comes in mind, immediately we get the thoughts of the

God,

we remember God and the sense gratifying ideas instantly vanishes.

Such is

the power of Love, and devotion to God. Actually then the God steers

our

vehicle, our thoughts and ideas are all under His command and we (the

soul)

never go astray, but reach our destination -the Holy lotus feet of the

Lord.

The jeev says, "O'God, I have seen your face, let me see your feet."

Let me

be in Your service.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Article

Saint who preached spiritual humanism

Apart from spreading the message of God among people for their

spiritual

enlightenment, some of the saints in olden days used to tender genuine

advice to kings and emperors about good governance as they themselves

had

gained knowledge about administration. The rulers, in their turn, never

hesitated to accept such suggestions for winning the admiration of the

people and also to know the tactics of the opponents and how to

frustrate

their moves. Among such luminaries who stood out with effulgent

brilliance,

with devastating phenomenal powers of argument was the patron-saint of

four

Vijayanagar kingdoms, particularly the one ruled by Krishnadevaraya,

Vyasathirtha Swami, who saved him from the throes of death.

A valiant defender of Sri Madhwacharya's philosophy, Vyasaraja used his

logical acumen to preach the doctrine of spiritual humanism backed by

"duty

and discipline". He united the "Daasas" or those who adopted music as

the

medium to spread faith and also united Sanskrit scholars. Purandaradasa

and

Kanakadasa, the two illustrious bards who sang Divine glory were his

disciples, Vyasaraja himself had left us an epitome of Bhagavad Gita.

Vyasaraja loved the masses, had ample sympathy for the average minds

and had

proved that renunciation did not merely mean to retire to a secluded

spot to

attain spiritual enlightenment just for oneself but it means to remain

the society and do service to humanity without the desire for fruits.

When a

congregation of planets was found to affect the life of

Krishnadevaraya,

{{the saint himself volunteered and averted the danger by temporarily

adorning the throne, and driving away "death" which came in the form of

snake. The moment the impending disaster was averted, Vyasaraja vacated

the

throne displaying his detachment}} (1).

"Devotion is the sovereign remedy to reach the Lord. It means

crucifixion of

ego and absolute commitment of our life to God" was his simple message

for

humanity. (Mon. Mar. 08, '99)

**********************************************************************

COMMENTARY

(1) That is one of the saintly qualities. They take the danger on

themselves and save others, specially their devotees. They do not get

attached to any thing but Truth. They are the Truth.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Rama never deviated from path of virtue

If a man performs his duties with utmost devotion and acts as per the

dictates of his elders and on the path shown by them he wins beatitude.

This

will make him worship the Lord and dedicate all his actions to Him from

whom

the world has issued and by whom all that we see is pervaded. {{The

Lord's

incarnation as Rama was not only to show to the world the path of

Righteousness but also to set an example for others to follow. Though

God

could have carried out His task in a trice with the help of His Divine

Weapons, He suffered like any other human being and never deviated from

the

path of virtue. There are numerous instances of the Lord acting

according to

the instructions of His father, His preceptors, Valmiki and

Viswamithra, and

other sages later. Though He could have done many things on His own, He

always waited for instruction from elders and thus wanted the posterity

tread the path laid by Him}} (1).

The Vaishnavite saints and Acharyas were so much influenced by the

incarnation of Rama that they have sung paeans about His great

qualities.

Sage Viswamithra who takes Rama and Lakshmana after arguing with

Dasaratha

and telling him that he knew who Rama was and the objective of His

coming

down to earth, enjoys each and every action of the Lord. When he comes

wake Him up in the morning, the beauty of the Lord lying on a stone

enchants

him so much that he forgets himself for a moment and then addresses the

famous verse of Suprabatha. Though knowing that He is the Divine Being,

the

sage wakes him to perform the morning ritual, which is very important

for

every individual. Ramanuja, even in his ripe old age when he was unable

get up from the bed, used to seek the help of his disciples to rise and

perform the rituals standing all along.

After slaying Taraka with a single arrow, the brothers helped the sage

perform the sacrifice by building an umbrella of arrows over the place

where

it was being performed and also slayed Subahu while driving away

Maricha.

The sage who wanted to show to the world the greatness of the Lord's

Holy

Feet, took Him to sage Gautama's place of residence where his wife,

Ahalya

was lying as a stone due to a curse and she was redeemed. (Tues., Mar.

08.

'99)

****************************************************************************

***

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) All incarnations of God and saints are capable of doing anything

they

wish to do, but they always follow the laws of nature, worldly customs

and

sometimes rituals also. They never do miracles and destroy

righteosness.

Their incarnation is solely to bless their devotees and restore

righteousness. They set ideals and examples for others to follow. But

can follow it if we do not know it. And we can not know it unless we

meet a

saint. That is why we must meet a saint, lest the God, as the later is

hard

to recognize.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Fri, 5 Mar 1999 12:17:41 -0500

ARTICLE

Selfless service helps one get God's grace

One of the methods prescribed in scriptures to enable an aspirant to

visualize God within his {{heart}} (1) is to get "initiated" by a

qualified

guide with a suitable incantation (Mantra) constantly meditating on

which,

with deep faith in its efficacy, he can obtain the fruits for his

efforts.

{{One should marvel at the varieties of such Mantras on different

deities,

which have been left behind by sages. Each Mantra, when repeated with

absolute concentration, releases the mystical energy encased within it,

generates creative force and awakens man's consciousness. The meaning,

sometimes more than one of the Mantras, will have to be dug out by

spiritual

leaders. Each of them will be to invoke the grace of a particular

deity.}}

(2)

Even in recent times, saints who have remained with us have composed

hymns,

hiding within them incantations {{on the deity whom they adored}} (3).

If He

is beautiful how is it of any use or relevance to a devotee? There

should be

a significance in the saint's words. Commentators have spelt out

several

meanings and how the worshippers can derive benefit. A poet says that

this

word in the Mantra refers to His abundant mercy even as a cloud brings

benefit to humanity. Another annotation is that whenever He makes His

presence felt, there would be a soothing aroma in the atmosphere. A

third

refers to the Divine state to which a devotee can rise.

It is said {{that selfless service will provide men with the grace of

God

and thereby enjoy Bliss within}} (4). Every devotee who undertakes

pilgrimage should first take a bath in such a well or a tank as this

would

ensure not only bodily purity but acquisition of spiritual knowledge

and

also the elimination of sins and vicious thoughts in the mind. Then he

should enter the precincts of the temple and offer worship. (Wed., Mar.

"99)

************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) This heart is not the human's physical heart. It is more close to

head

or mind and may be called a spiritual heart.

(2) There are millions of Mantras but in reality there is only ONE

Mantra.

If God is ONE and if all people are, in nuclei (their souls or

spirits),

also same and ONE, there ought to be only ONE true Mantra. And that is

"Naam" or name of God. This is just like from an ocean of water (God)

there

becomes billions of water bodies in the form of ponds, rivers, lakes,

pools,

seas, and many other water bodies. But the water is ONE; the One in

different shapes and sizes is called by different names, that in

reality

does not make the water different. All Mantras are good, they have

something to offer to its chanters, but none of them can provide God

realization unless the ONE which is (not uttered or chanted, but)

meditated

upon is known. That is the true Mantra or Word of God, as said,

"Mantra

Tantra Sab Jhuth Hai, Naa Koi Bhramo Sansaar; Saar Shabad Jaane Binaa,

Koee

Na Utaare Paar." Means, "All the Mantras and tantras (mystics or

magics)

are false, O'People don't be fooled in it; without knowing the true

Word (of

God), no body can sail (you) through (your life)."

(3) Krishna said in Gita, "Those who adore or worship "Purvaj" or

ancestors

goes to ancestors, those who worship deities goes to deities. But

those who

worship me come straight to me." But there is no that Krishna now, who

shall we worship? He further said, "who so ever worship various

deities, I

go in to those deities and give those worshippers through those deities

what

ever worshippers pray for." If it is so, then first, why worship God

second

handly? and second, deities will only give first handly what they have.

Like worshippers of Laxmi can only get wealth but not knowledge, or

that of

Saraswati can only get knowledge but not wealth. And that too by the

mercy

and will of God. How can one expect a medical doctor to design a

bridge? If

he does chances are he'll kill many people. How can one get mango by

sowing

a bamboo tree? So why not worship, pray, meditate, Love, and be

devoted to

God directly first hand.

(4) Selfless service to God is the key to obtain bliss and joy. With

Love

and devotion the knowledge automatically follows suit, overflowingly

even if

the aspirant does not want it. They may choose no to use it and remain

immersed in the infinite bliss, happiness and joy of devotion and

service to

God. Or they may choose to spread the glory of God.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Religion can make one's mind steady

Where is the need for religion and for what purpose should it be

followed in

this life if, according to the view that the Law of Action and Reaction

plays its role under which every happening takes place as decided by

the

Almighty and that we cannot alter them. Competent authorities have

answered

this doubt in unambiguous terms. Religion is the source which can make

our

minds steady and derive the capacity to face trials even if our plans

fail.

Our problems arise because of our unfulfilled wants. Religious

exercises

will enable men to destroy their unnecessary needs or keep them to the

minimum. All religions of the world have been trying their utmost to

make

men morally upright.

The Bhagavad Gita says that a stable person is one who is not disturbed

others when they look at him or if he happens to look at them. The mind

can

remain under control only if he worships God regularly. To make it

steady,

meditation with Mantras has been prescribed. {{Mantras can be uttered

three ways, according to Jainism. They can be chanted in such a manner

that

others can hear them; lip movements will be there but words spelt out

cannot

be heard and thirdly, chanting "mentally" within oneself}} (1). This

most

important part of religious austerities implies that even when severe

trials

knock at a devoted person, he will be least concerned. Religion creates

atmosphere of detachment and when once a person is tired of the cycles

births and deaths, he will divert his attention towards seeking

salvation.

An excellent example of attachment was narrated: A rich merchant, on

his

death-bed, asked his accountant about the balance of his resources. He

was

told that his wealth was enough to feed 71 generations. The businessman

then

was worried as to what would happen to the 72nd generation. He never

thought

that his future grandchildren will have hands to work and earn. There

are

two recipes to be free from attachment: "I belong to no one and nobody

belongs to me; I am not the body but I am the soul." In order to see

that

birth as a human being will be fruitful, one should follow {{the right

type

of religion, tread the correct path, read the right type of scriptural

texts}} (2) and cultivate ennobling virtues. Even the adherents to

righteousness may at times be puzzled to find some rolling in wealth

though

they have not been carrying out the prescribed spiritual guidelines and

some

experiencing happiness and immersed in joy while several others are

steeped

in poverty. The contributory factors for such differences cannot be a

matter

of chance. A man's prosperity or adversity is the result of his past

actions. (Thurs. Mar. 04,

'99)************************************************************************

******

COMMENTARY

(1) There are many other ways of chanting Mantras -such as with a

rosary in

hand, etc. There can be many other ways devised to chant a Mantra. If

all

humans have the same ONE soul or spirit in them, then there has to be

only

one best way to chant Mantra and that has to be the correct way also.

Human body is considered as made of Akash, Air, Fire, Water and Earth.

All

these elements are present outside also. It is said, "Jo Brhamaande So

Pinde." Means, "Whatever is outside in this universe is also inside

this

body." Therefore, it can also be said' "Jo Pinde So Brhamaande," i.e.,

what

ever is inside this human body is also outside in this universe. A

Mantra

chanted with total void "Shunya" or Akash is superior to that chanted

with

air we breath, which is subsequently superior to one which is chanted

with

fire -as during "Yagya," and so on. Thus chanting a Mantra aloud with

rosary in hand is the least useful way; unfortunately it is the most

common

way also. Kabir said, "Maalaa Ferat Yug Bhayaa, Gayaa Na Man Kaa Fer;

Kar

Kaa Manaka Chhodi Ke, Man Kaa Mankaa Fer." Means, "An era passed

chanting

Mantra with a rosary in hand (but) the mind did not yet got purified;

leave

the rosary and begin to clean the mind." He then negating the previous

statement advises to even go beyond the mind by saying, "Maalaa To Kar

Phire, Jeebh Phire Mukh Maaheen; Manavaa To Chahun Disi Phire, Ye To

Sumiran

Naaheen." i.e., the rosary moves in the hand, tongue moves in the

mouth; the

mind wanders all around, this is not the way to remember God. He then

advises a more advance or correct way and warns people, "Saans Saans Pe

Naam

Le, Ek Bhi Saans Naa Khoy; Kyaa Jaane Is Saans Kaa, Aavan Hoy Naa Hoy."

Means, "Remember God's Word with every breath (Air -the most superior,

to Akash), do not waste even one breath (without remembering God); who

knows

when this breath could cease." Thus we should settle on the second

best

way. An aspirant of spirituality will eventually get the best way to

meditate -i.e., the state of trance, if he or she is zealous to know

God.

However, still one has to know that Naam, or Word of God which he can

meditate upon with every breath, as indicated by Kabir.

(2) There is no right or wrong, correct or incorrect, true or false in

this

world. There is only ONE -Truth, which is right and which is correct.

Mere

absence or lack of Truth becomes false, the lack of right becomes

wrong,

just like the absence of light is called darkness. Anything we do, or

think

which helps us realize God, which takes us a step closer to know the

Truth

is right, is correct and is true to liberate us from the bondage of

darkness

and put us in to light. Spirit has then no attachment to the body and

the

aspirant of Truth realizes that he is not the body he is the soul, the

soul

is God, as said, "Aham Brhamaasmee; Ayamaatmaa Brhama."

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

{{Characteristics of a true devotee}} (1)

Scriptures have given various definitions to the term devotion. One can

cite

numerous examples from the lives of saints and sages to give

illustrations

for different kinds of devotions practiced by them. The company of

these men

has helped the devout people attain distinguishing attributes and their

influence will certainly lead to changes in their very outlook and lead

them

on the right path.

The Garuda Purana has listed eight different characteristics of a

devotee as

expounded by the Lord Himself. The first one is to serve sages and

saints

who are His true representatives. The second is to worship the Lord

without

any inhibitions. The next is to personally offer prayers to the Lord

without

seeking the help of intermediaries. The Lord does not like His devotees

exhibit pomp and show while offering worship and austerity is the

fourth

attribute. The next is the recitation of scriptures, especially Puranas

which sing His glory - and to get deeply moved by the righteousness,

valor

and grace exhibited by the Lord as explained in these works. This is

listed

as the sixth quality of a devotee. The seventh trait is to always think

the Almighty as a true savior. The last characteristic is not to seek

anything else from the Lord than the service to His Holy Feet.

The Garuda Purana has declared unequivocally that any one who possessed

these eight attributes would be considered as a true devotee of the

Lord

irrespective of class, caste and other distinctions. Like the cow which

removes all the dirt and other bad elements from the skin of a new-born

calf

with its tongue, the Lord removes all the bad qualities of a man and

makes

Him fit to obtain His grace.

The Lord also does not expect the true devotee to offer prayers

extensively

with the attendant extravagant display. All that he wants is true

devotion

on the part of a man and He is immensely pleased if he offers prayers

with

leaves, flowers, fruits and water. Even if all these things could not

be got

ready, he can offer prayer with the help of even water which is easily

available.

The Lord Himself, during His incarnation as Krishna, has declared that

all

people can get closer to Him by hearing or reading the Bhagavatam. When

the

Lord Krishna was about to leave this world after fulfilling the

objectives

of his incarnation, the saint, Uddhava, and others lamented as to who

will

be there to guide them. {{The Lord said one could see Him in the form

Srimad Bhagavatham}} (2). That is why this work is held in great esteem

one and all. (Fri. Mar. 05,'99)********************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Ramayan says nine qualities of devotees, "First, the company of

saints;

second, keen in reading and telling scriptures or stories of God;

third,

service to the lotus feet of spiritual master or Guru; fourth, to speak

the glory of God with a guileless heart; fifth, chanting Guru Mantra

with

steadfastness; sixth, constantly engaged in Karma with detachment;

seventh,

seeing the God in everybody and considering saints more than God;

eighth,

contentment in whatever one gets and never even in dream, see others

fault;

ninth, simplicity with a strong belief in God without guile and

equanimity.

The Gita gives a similar qualities, and I imagine other scriptures like

Bible, Koran, etc. must be giving a similar account.

(2) Thanks God some people may not worship and pray to that scripture,

done in Sikhism where the scriptural book "Guru Granth Sahib" is

worshiped

and we people pray to that holy book. Is it going to listen to our

prayers

and give us what we pray for? I think only a live person can help

another

live person, and of course in spirituality only alive spiritual master

who

is free from the bondage of the cycle of death and birth can make some

one

free from it.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Tue, 2 Mar 1999 12:57:12 -0500

ARTICLE

{{Wisdom alone can liberate man}} (1)

All embodied beings in the world are made up of the three qualities

(gunas):

sattva, rajas and tamas. Though all the three gunas are present

together,

their proportion lends the distinctive nature to an individual.

Moreover, a

person may be influenced by any of the three at a particular time which

responsible for his moods. Even if someone is essentially sattvic it is

evident that he will not always have a peaceful frame of mind.

The gunas are a manifestation of Prakriti (matter). The soul (Atman) at

the

time of creation becomes embodied due to contact with Prakrti. The

three

qualities are responsible for the bondage of the soul and make the soul

forget its essential imperishable and blissful nature by its

identification

with the body.

Of the three gunas, sattva is flawless and illuminating, rajas is of

the

nature of passion and attachment, and tamas, deluding and sluggish.

Even

though sattva endows a person with sterling qualities, it binds him by

identifying with joy. When a person is under the influence of rajoguna

becomes an extrovert, actively involved in worldly pursuits with

attachment

to success in his enterprises, to the extent of being selfish. The

involvement is so much that he loses sight of other values in life.

Under the influence of rajas attachment results due to active

involvement

which is the cause of bondage; in the case of one who is influenced by

tamoguna there is delusion due to total identification with the body.

Such a

person is prone to laziness, excessive sleep and error in judgment. A

person

who goes all the way to Kanyakumari to watch the sunrise which is

unique

there, but fails to get up in the morning and misses it because of his

laziness, is a case in point. Though his intention is good, he is

unable to

translate it into action because of the influence of tamoguna.

On the Bhagavad Gita, it is said that under the spell of tamas a person

misses many beautiful things in life even when endowed with a perfect

body,

mind and intellect. Though all the three gunas cause bondage, the

difference

in their intensity can be understood by comparison. Sattva is like a

bow-

knot which can be easily untied; rajas like a reef-knot which is

slightly

difficult to undo and tamas like a complicated knot requiring much

effort.

Whichever guna is predominant it sways the mind and hence only when the

clear wisdom of the Self shines, do the gunas leave their hold on man.

Understanding one's disposition one must act upon them to get over

their

influence. (Sat., Feb. 27, '99)

**************************************************************

COMMENTARY

(1) True, but how does it (the wisdom) come and what it is? Wisdom is

that

thought and sensation of Truth which comes in mind from the higher

plane of

spirit or Truth through the intellect. It bypasses ego and is not

affected

by mind and sense organs. It is contrary to the knowledge which is

obtained

from the lower physical planes through 5 senses of knowledge (sound,

touch,

sight, taste and smell) obtained through ear, skin, eyes, tongue and

nose

(Inlets) and 5 senses of karma or actions through hands, legs, mouth,

visarjan and prajanan organs (outlets). Knowledge fades away with time

due

to memory loss and eventually it perishes with the body. A man with

knowledge is like a computer which more or less retain what is fed in

it.

Wisdom is like a human, where ideas and thoughts can come by its own.

Wisdom is close to the intuition. That is why they say, "Pothi Padha

Jug

Bhayaa, Pandit Bhayaa Na Koy; Dhhaaee Akshar Prem Kaa Padhe So Pandit

Hoy."

Means, "One has spent the era in reading scriptures (but) no body could

become wise; One who reads the two-and-a-half letters of LOVE becomes

wise

(or have wisdom). Therefore, Love and devotion is crucial to have

wisdom

and realization.

How does it come? When a person has guileless heart, is free of three

gunas

(going in trance), have done away with vices -like anger, lust, greed,

envy,

jealousy, pride, stealing, deception, sin, hypocrisy, etc. and has

treasured

virtues -like always speaking truth, humility, respect the Lord in

every

individual human and His all creation, piousness, kindness,

forgiveness,

contentment, contemplation, trance, etc. The degree and frequency of

wise

thoughts coming to mind depend upon the absence or presence of one or

of these and other vices or virtues respectively. With emotions, deep

love

and devotion to God one becomes wise and wisdom alone is helpful in God

realization; no amount of knowledge makes the reach there although

knowledge

do increase the curiosity and analytical strength of the individual to

know

God.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Chaitanya, savior of mankind

About five centuries ago, the whole of India, with the exception of two

areas, was a vast territory where the process of constant hammering was

being adopted to shatter Hindu religion into pieces, and cast it to the

winds. Such a tyrannical oppression by evil forces necessitated God to

incarnate on earth. Apart from this task, which is simple for Him, His

greater eagerness was to please the numerous devotees who wanted His

presence amidst them. One such manifestation was His appearance as a

great

reformer and guide, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

A non-violent fighter and a dauntless rebel who fought superstitions,

saved the erring souls. There was none to challenge when he marched on

foot

all over India carrying with him the eternal flaming torch and flying

the

flag of Truth and Justice in his hands. This savior of mankind removed

the

sorrows of people, and brought them joy.

Chaitanya's prescription to humanity was the singing of the glorious

name of

Lord Krishna. In his mission of spreading Divine love, he adopted the

instrument of recitation of {{God's name}} (1) to forge unity and make

men

rise in their spiritual stature.

The Divine name wipes out the sins and polishes the mirror of the soul,

extinguishes the raging conflagration of worldly life, provides Bliss

and

chastens the entire outlook of a person.

In 1486 A.D., Chaitanya made his advent at Mayapur and his religious

life

unfolds unique pathological symptoms of devotion, which are

unparalleled in

history. His ecstatic dance and the sweet chanting of the Krishna's

name

touched the hearts of everyone who came to him. Scholars acknowledged

his

Divinity and millions embraced his creed of "Naam Sankirtana". That the

human body is like a boat, the first and foremost use of which is to

carry

one across the ocean of life and death to the shore of immortality, was

one

of his messages; today being Chaitanya's advent day.

Towards the end of his life, after his 46th year, Chaitanya's

"love-in-separation" for God reached such a pitch of intensity that he

gradually lost all touch with public life, spending his days in a state

{{intense devotion to his deity and in beatific visions}} (2). By {{the

grace of Krishna}} (3), even the ordinary person can reach the shore of

the

ocean of devotion. (Tues., Mar. 02, '99)

***************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) God's name! What is God's name? Is it Raam? Is it Krishna? or Is

Allah? or Christ or Buddha? All these are various local names of God.

Simply, because the Truth in ONE -One which is constant, eternal,

unchanging, unborn, undying. The one which changes by the (minute or)

time

and the place can not be the Truth. God is ONE and only ONE -eternal,

infinite, beyond time and place, omnipresent, omniscient, omnipotent.

If He

is ONE, His true name also has to be ONE. And IT can not be other,

else IT

will not be the truth. It can not be the name of a body, substance,

idol,

or deity, etc. in which IT assumes a shape or form, just like the clay

same in all pots -make it a tumbler, a kamandal, a pitcher, a jug, a

spoon,

a cup or anything else. The God is there in all humans. It is said,

"Ghat

Ghat Me Meraa Saainyaa, Suno Ghat Na Koy; Balihaari Vaa Ghat Kee,

Jaamen

Pragat Hoy." Means, "My Lord, God is in everybody, there is no one

without

Him; I surrender to ONE in which it manifests or incarnates." Thus

God's

name in ONE. That ought to be known. Then only we can know Him. It

said, "Raam Raam Sab Koi Kahe, Naam Na Jaane koy; Jo Koi Jaane Naam

Kahe,

Naam Kahaave Soi." Means, "Everybody says "Raam" "Raam" -the names of

God,

(but) no body knows the Name; one who knows the (true) name (of God),

spread

His name and is known as Name (of God)." That is the name of the Atma,

the

spirit or God. That one has to be known and that one has to be

obtained

in oneself. One has to embody Him, that NAME of God in oneself.

That's

one's Dharma -"Dharati-so-Dharma."

(2) When the devotion to Naam comes, Naam becomes deity. Of course,

once

one is devoted to true name "Sat-Naam" one gets a bountiful of joy and

bliss.

(3) The grace of Krishna! Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was incarnated on this

earth

approximately 500 years ago, and Krishna was incarnated in "Dwapar Yug"

approximately before 7000 years ago, when the onset of Kaliyug started.

"The grace of Krishna" is an analogy; since Krishna was once there,

just

like Rama, or Jesus, or Buddha, or Bahaullah, or Kabir or Nanak, etc.

were

once there, Chaitanya call and compare his God with the Krishna. It

just like calling a very nice fellow as "Heera" or "Precious" (He is

precious, or He is a Heera) does not really make his name as Heera or

Precious. The same case was of Meera. Everybody know Meera's God was

Krishna, but only Meera and some few others knew and know who was her

real

God through whom she got devotion and knew the true name of God.

With best wishes.

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Fri, 26 Feb 1999 08:12:08 -0500

ARTICLE

Providence cannot be thwarted

The scriptural authority of Sanatana dharma, the Vedas, which were

revealed

to the sages, are in the form of commandments. The rituals and

practices

which are enjoined in them are obligatory and have to be followed

according

to one's station in life. One has to practice them with faith that they

have

been prescribed for the ultimate good of humanity as the results may

not be

discernible. But, the path of Nama sankirtana (singing the Divine

names) is

easy for all to adopt and the result of its practice can be felt

immediately.

While in the other ages, austerities, Yajna and meditation had to be

practiced stringently to realize God, in this Kali yuga, Nama

sankirtana can

give the same result. The lives of devotees who realized God through

this

method attest to its efficacy and hence serve as inspiration. {{One

such

devotee who was just five years- old}} (1) when the Almighty incarnated

just

to protect him moved by his sterling devotion, was Prahlada.

It is said that the manifestation of the Almighty as Narasimha proved

that

His incarnations were always due to His will, though they were always

undertaken for the sake of His devotees. When the celestials submitted

the Almighty to intercede when they could not tolerate the troubles

Hiranyakasipu was causing to one and all, He promised them that He

would

intercede at the appropriate time.

Hiranyakasipu hated the Lord because he held Him responsible for his

brother

Hiranyaksha's death when He assumed the form of Varaha to kill him. So

undertook intense penance and obtained a boon from Brahma, the creator,

thinking that he had outsmarted everyone by getting a boon that no

being

would be able to kill him. He ordered that no one should utter the

Lord's

name in his kingdom and declared himself as the Lord. But the Divine

plan

unfolded in a manner to prove that it is not possible to thwart

Providence.

It was to him who hated the Almighty that the great devotee Prahlada

was

born. His devotion became apparent right from his birth as {{he had the

good

fortune of listening to the Lord's glory even while in the womb of his

mother Kayatu to whom Sage Narada related the Divine glory.}} (2)

Prahlada's devotion to God grew in leaps and bounds much to the chagrin

his teacher who tried his best to correct him to please his father. The

child escaped several threats to his life due to God's grace when

Hiranyakasipu tried to kill him and finally He incarnated as Narasimha

protect His devotee. (Wed. Feb. 24, '99)

************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Age is no bar or no criteria for God realization. Prahlad got

realization at 5 years age (some says at 15 years); Dhruva got it at an

young age of 6 years; Gautama Buddha and Jesus Christ got it in their

twenties; Tulsi got in his middle age; etc. Actually, earlier the

better.

Because it is smart to get out of darkness and illusion of this world

and

know the Truth as soon as one can.

(2) Prahlad got the word of God from Narad while he was still in his

mother's womb. Does this not tell us that the "Satguru" -the free

pure

soul, initiate the souls of His disciples and not their bodies?

Actually,

the Satguru is the soul of the disciple and the disciple becomes the

Satguru's body after God realization. Thus all this reading and

writings of

Bible, Koran, Gita, Ramayan, Puranas, Srutis, Smratis, etc. provide

encouragement and motivation in people to know the Truth, but it does

not

provide that spark to ignite the internal fire which when explodes burn

the

whole body; where as the external fire (by reading these scriptures)

can

only char different parts of the body yet leaving the mind, intellect

and

ego in tact. The mind and all ten organs of senses of knowledge and

action

still remain at work and the anger, lust, greed, pride, etc., are not

burnt,

how can then one know the Truth, the Lord God, who is beyond all this?

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The Self, source of infinite bliss

Man finds himself at the crossroads often in life because there is some

decision or the other which has to be taken even in day- to-day

matters. One

cannot escape from exercising one's choice in such situations. Animals

and

birds do not have this problem and they follow their natural instincts,

but,

man being endowed with the freedom of choice, he has to exercise his

option,

but this involves moral responsibility. So, there is a dilemma even in

trivial matters because the decision one has to take may not be always

palatable, which naturally gives rise to mental conflicts.

Arjuna faced this kind of moral dilemma at the beginning of the

Mahabharata

war. He was in a fix whether to engage in the war or not. The answer to

his

predicament was not a simple "yes or no". It entailed the teaching of

the

Gita by Lord Krishna who had to expound the subtlest of all subjects -

{{Adhyatma}} (1) vidya (knowledge of the Self) - to resolve his

dilemma.

Though the teaching of the Lord in the Gita is an intrinsic whole,

every

chapter conveys a profound teaching and thus is important. When a

chapter is

treated as important as it is from a particular standpoint from which

one is

studying the text. The third chapter, for instance, is an excellent

guide on

management.

On the Bhagavad Gita, it is said that the 14th chapter of this text

gave a

clear understanding of the human mind about which unfortunately humans

know

precious little. The problems of the mind can be solved only by rising

above

the level of the mind.

If a person thinks that he can tackle them by circumvention, he is

mistaken

because it is not possible. This chapter teaches how a person can

insulate

himself from the afflictions of the world even while actively engaged

worldly life. This can be likened to using an umbrella when it is

raining;

one cannot do anything about the rain, but, can certainly prevent

oneself

from getting drenched.

Lord Krishna in the 13th chapter expounds the association between the

insentient matter and the sentient beings (Prakrti-Purusha) which is

the

basis of creation, though He does not expound it in great detail here.

the subject is once again taken up for discussion in the next chapter.

{{The

sentient Self by association with the insentient body identifies itself

with

it and in the process forgets its true blissful nature}} (2).

But those who understand the nature of Prakrti remain unafflicted by it

and

become one with the Supreme, who is bliss incarnate. This leads to

fulfillment as there is realization of one's blissful nature. They no

longer

seek happiness from material things. (Thu. Feb. 25, '99)

***********************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Adhyatma means study or experience ("Adhyan") of the self ("Atma).

Knowledge comes abound when one studies and experience IT (the self).

The

important thing here is "Atma" or self or spirit. But people usually

misunderstand "Adhyatma" as Veda's study or a branch of Hindu religious

study. Similarly "Svadhyay" actually means the "Adhyan" of "Sva". Sva

means

self or spirit; but most people know it as self study or study from

books

without the help of any living being or teacher. They do take the help

books to study, eyes to read, a language to understand, etc. but still

call

it self study. Who is that self who studies it? Atma is eternal, it was

there before Gita (as we know it -a scriptural book) was told or

written,

and people like Durvasa Muni, Vashishtha Muni, etc. knew Adhyatma vidya

much

before that.

(2) This happens due to illusion or "Maya". The self or spirit takes a

form

due to "Yogmaya" and thinks that IT is the body. In reality IT is not

the

body. The material body changes, grows, gets old, changes form and is

useless without the self or spirit; where as the spirit or self is

eternal.

It is not matter, it is not even energy, it is the source of matter and

energy. It was there in the beginning and it never changes, grows,

gets

old, or dies or changes forms. That is how the Truth is defined. One

which

is constant, changeless, infinite and eternal. We must try our best to

know

IT -the God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Tue, 23 Feb 1999 12:46:35 -0500

Dedicate all actions to the Almighty

The mind is responsible for man's joys and sorrows. A person cannot

lead a

happy life if he does not understand what gives him happiness. If life

mechanical, frustrations are bound to be there, as it is apparent that

worldly life is not unalloyed bliss. One should be equipped mentally to

face

life. For this it is essential to understand what life in the world

entails.

Birth and death are intrinsic to life in the world as these are the

corollary of the working of Karma (result of actions in previous

lives),

which has also caused this particular birth. There is no escape from

death

for every being born in this world. The Yakshaprasna section in the

Mahabharata says, "Day after day there enter into the Temple of Death,

countless lives. Looking at this spectacle, the rest of them, (those

who

remain) believe themselves to be permanent and immortal. Can anything

more wonderful than this?"

{{When beset with problems death should not be looked upon as an

escape}}

(1). {{Human birth is a rare opportunity}} (2) given to one, the

significance of which must never be forgotten. Within this cycle of

transmigration man has the freedom to realize eternal bliss in this

birth by

orienting his life to the spiritual goal. Re- orientation to this goal

will

reflect in his outlook and also in his actions.

It is said that a human being had to make all efforts to understand

that he

is the Self (Atman)and realize the bliss of the Self. The mind should

attuned to this ideal even when it is preoccupied with worldly

activities.

One should start each day with gratitude that it is due to God's grace

that

one has the strength, physically and mentally, to enjoy and perform all

actions. This attitude will motivate one to dedicate all actions to

God.

The manner in which one must regulate one's life is prescribed in the

scriptures and the practices like prayer and meditation enjoined in

them,

are all meant to develop concentration of mind which is the basis of

spiritual life.

By orienting one's mind to God all actions and thoughts will become

spontaneous and involved, which will result in great joy. {{One enjoys

every

little act when one develops this attitude}} (3). When there is

involvement

in life then one's joy is reflected in one's relationships also. For

instance, if {{one is committed to speaking truth}} (4) such a person

will

think of the consequences and will not hurt others in the process of

abiding

by it. So also while engaging in noble acts like charity one shares

whatever

one has with others joyfully and not out of compulsion. (Tue. Feb. 23,

'99)

***************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Seeking one's escape from problems by death is the biggest sin one

can

do and even a thought of it pushes one far behind and backward in his

journey to self realization.

(2) Ramayan says, "Bade Bhaagya Maanush Tan Paavaa, Sur Durlabh Sab

Granthan

Gaavaa." Means, "Due to great fortune the human body is obtained, all

scriptures state that even for deities also it is difficult to get

human

life." The folly is that due to ignorance he worships deities and

neglect

God whom all deities also pray to give them human life. Human life is

simply great because only in this life one is free to act while reaping

the

fruits (sweet or sour) of his previous actions. All other species,

including deities, demigods, demons, etc. are only bound to enjoy or

suffer

according to their pious or sinful acts done in their past lives

respectively.

(3) When one is fully engrossed in God, having surrendered and

dedicated all

his actions to God, he is bound to look at the world positively and

praise

the Lord in all situations. Even if one gets a prick from a thorn or

hurt

himself minorly, he sees the reason for it, the benefit he gets out of

it,

and he thanks God for it. Lamas of Bhutan and Sikkim pray God to give

them

hard time so that they can remember Him more and more, pray Him more

and

more. When such a person's mother, or son, or spouse dies, he would

see

God's plan in it and would see positively and accept the loss more

easily,

instead of blaming and cursing God. He would not be able to get them

back

to life, no matter how hard he tries. He sees the Atman which is

eternal.

(4) Always speaking Truth has no parallel, it is the biggest penance,

biggest righteousness, and is an assured way to God realization., One

who

always speaks truth, although he does not usually tell anything about

the

future, but if he tells it ought to come true. All the forces of

Nature has

to fall inline to make it happen. Such a person is a rare saint, as

said,

"Saanch Baraabar Tap Nahin, Jhooth Baraabar Paap; Jaanke Rhday Saanch

Hain

Taaken Rhday Aap." Means, "God lives in that heart which has truth,

because

there is no penance greater than speaking truth, as there is no sin

bigger

than lying." Hence, such a saint is known as "Satguru" -the master who

speaks truth, shows truth and make a sincere seeker of truth experience

in himself.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Mon, 22 Feb 1999 12:56:50 -0500

Mind should be kept under control

The attitude and behavior of a person, impulses, emotions, moods and

even

body movements depend on the functioning of the mind. In the vast

majority

of men it is allowed to run wild or wander. That is why holy texts and

saints who explain their significance, always focus men's attention on

the

imperative need to escape the tyranny of the mind. Instead of allowing

it to

be one's master, it should be tamed to act as one's servant. {{One of

the

ways to control its sway is to be closely associated with saintly souls

who

will direct men's activities towards God and make them think only about

virtue.}} (1)

Saints who have purified their minds by discipline are centers of great

force. The impure, weak minds will be unconsciously drawn towards their

teachings, while mixing with them. The influence exerted by them is

such

that those who approach them will also learn how to discipline

themselves

and observe certain rigorous rules of spiritual practices. An

extraordinary

example of the saints' role was found in the case of one among them,

known

for his piety, having taken care of a peacock in his gardens. A poacher

shot

a few rounds from his gun but not a single bullet injured the bird.

Those

around told him that even if a hundred pellets are shot they would not

cause

any injury to it, as it has received the saint's grace.

Narrating the experience of some saints, it is said that a

millionaire's son

was found in a cage, walking on his hands and legs. His mind had been

affected and in spite of being the only son of the wealthy man, nothing

could be done as the boy at times behaved violently. Likewise, in

another

place, they saw a cot and bed costing millions of rupees, using which

their

owner could not be assured of more than the normal amount of sleep (He

was

later found beheaded). Again, in one of the world's biggest factories,

they

were told of the efficiency of a car that could be 90 per cent safe

against

accidents. But the producers could not be sure of the efficiency of the

human element because the driver's mind may not be free from stress and

perhaps he may be even under the influence of liquor. All these show

that

mind should be kept under control not making others obey its command.

{{Man's duty is therefore to realize the self and know the nature of

the

soul, subdue the mind and seek the company of saints, who will help him

getting rid of his ego and the "I" consciousness (claiming "I have done

it")

and cultivate noble thought, and experience peace and bliss within,

rediscovering the divine elements. Saints are great purifiers and "sat

sang"

gives a new spiritual turn of the mind.}} (2) (Mon. Feb. 22, '99)

************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) This is a proven way. Because in this when the mind always thinks

about

the Lord God, there remains no time to think about zillions of other

worldly

things. This is known as "Ekaagrataa", means, "the mind is leading

("agra")

towards ONE ("Ek"), hence there in none else. When Meera was asked by

Raja

Bhoj of Mewar, why did she cross the boarder and stepped in to his

kingdom,

she merely replied, "This land is of Shri Krishna", "I am of Shri

Krishna",

and "you are of Shri Krishna." She was seeing only Shri Krishna

everywhere. This, however, can only be possible through a saint.

Therefore, until one meets a saint, one can practice to concentrate his

mind

by practicing the following simple (physical-mental) exercise: Count

one to

100 at the normal pace and time it. Now count backward from 100 to one

making sure of the accuracy and time it. Repeat it until you can count

100

to 1, of course accurately, in the same time as you counted 1 to 100.

Repeat the whole exercise at a faster pace, i.e., reduce the time of

counting 1 to 100 and practicing backward counting to match with the

shorter

time. This is a proven technique to concentrate and control one's

mind.

Next step will be to gear it towards God, by chanting a mantra. Try

"Om

Namoh Shivaay." This will surely make your circumstances and conditions

conducive for you to meet a saint.

Finally, then, follow his advice and guidance.

(2) To realize self: that is the cause of the soul to take the human

form,

and that is also the purpose of the human life. Otherwise, all living

beings take birth, breath, eat, grow and die. Imagine, when we can do

know all this (everything) outside, yet without knowing our own self or

soul, or spirit or God which is inside us in our own self, and due to

which

only we are able to know all this outside world, what we can do knowing

the

doer, the self, the God. Infinite. Otherwise, There is a only a

hollowness

inside with good appearance outside only to collapse sooner or later.

That

is why we accomplish nothing at the end of our lives. But if we know

our

own self, the living being, the spirit, the God inside us then we can

do or

know anything outside and we do not collapse. We burst and spread the

word

of God. We have accomplished the goal of the human life. The mind is

automatically controlled. It merges in to the intellect, the ego, and

the

self or spirit and we can go in to trance. This is the assured way of

getting supreme bliss and happiness. At the end, our will merges in to

the

will of God and we can help others obtaining the same supreme bliss and

eternal happiness which we have experienced only through the help of a

saint.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Friday, February 19, 1999 4:03 PM

God-realization is goal of human life

> "Have you seen God," was the question raised by Narendra (who later

became

> Swami Vivekananda) when he met Sri Ramakrishna, to which the reply

was "If

> you take efforts, I shall try to help you". God is everywhere but

there is

> greater sanctity in temples. These holy centers have been once the

seats

> of

> various saints and have been visited since then by many who had

offered

> their

> prayers and hence some spiritual energy is stored therein.

> The message of Ramakrishna (whose birthday fell on this Thursday) to

> humanity

> was "search for God". The goal of human life should be to realize

God.

> This

> is possible by developing detachment even as the hard skin of a jack

fruit

> can be easily peeled by applying oil to one's hands. It means that a

> person

> should not get attached to worldly pleasures. Devotion is like the

oil. An

> aspirant of spiritual practices should remain steadfast in his

endeavors

> even

> as the needle of a compass in a ship always shows only one direction

> though

> the vessel may travel anywhere and face any situation. Even as a

farmer

> who

> irrigates his field the whole day but finds that the crops have not

> received

> the water because the quantity had all gone into the numerous burrows

> rodents in the bunds en route, one should not waste one's energy in

> worldly

> activities while undertaking spiritual exercises. Just set up your

> priorities and aim at the top priority.

> Saints and messengers of God are more compassionate towards mankind

and

> Ramakrishna had great concern for the poor. Once during his

pilgrimage, he

> saw people in a village extremely poor and hence asked a wealthy man

> immediately arrange for the supply of food and cloths to them;

otherwise

> he

> would not continue his trip. He also refrained from taking food from

> people

> whose character was bad. Devotees should adopt the path he had shown.

> Ramakrishna directed his spiritual power for the upliftment of

humanity as

> a

> whole. He was concerned about the need to turn people's ways so that

they

> may

> reach higher levels. Every individual possesses tremendous power but

he is

> not aware of it and Ramakrishna goaded and entreated every one to be

aware

> of

> it. He was an incarnation of God and could remove our problems in a

trice.

> He

> asked people to remember that God was behind us in our efforts. The

> difference between an ordinary man and an incarnation is that the

former

> goes

> into oblivion but the latter will be remembered forever.

{{Ramakrishna was

> the Lord in human form}} (1) and has revealed himself thus.

{{Whosoever

> went

> to him got all the doubts cleared}} (2). "Whoever thinks of me will

get

> rid

> of his difficulties," he had said. (Sat. Feb. 20, '99)

> **************************************************************

> COMMENTARY

> Dear Friend:

> (1) Ramakrishna was and certainly he was for Vivekananda. However,

he is

> not there any more. we have his memories only. The fact that he was

> enough to tell us that a saint is a true Lord in human form. Some

even

> says

> they are higher than God. It sounds funny that anybody can be higher

than

> God, but what is the difference between God and one who knows Him

(the

> God)

> fully inside-out. Is there? Ramayan says, "Jo Janat So Dehi Janaai,

> Janat

> Tumhin Tumhin Hoi Jaaee." Means, "Those who knows can make you

known,

> knowing you becomes you." Anybody with qualification of a president

can

> become a president. However, there is only one president and all

others

> accept him so. Therefore, a saint who knows God can show God to

anybody

> of

> course with later's efforts.

> (2) This is one of the qualities of a saint. You may have a host of

> questions (or doubts) to ask but as you go in his territory some are

> answered

> by your inner conscious or through books, people, etc. When you go

> further

> closer to him another few are answered by you or some one you meet,

the

> remaining ones are automatically answered by his disciples when you

go to

> a

> saints ashram, and finally one or two if still left are answered

when you

> see him or bow down to him in reverence.

> With best wishes.

> Sincerely

> ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Tue, 16 Feb 1999 11:44:12 -0500

Supreme Being, the first

The distinctive traits of the messengers of God are the spiritual

knowledge

they have gained through enormous personal sacrifice and the moral

purity

they have developed by virtue of strict austerities. These saintly

persons,

who have been zealously safeguarding hoary spiritual traditions and

upholding them in their own lives will only be too keen to transmit the

wisdom they have gained to those who approach them. They will never

deviate

from the path their predecessors had laid.

Those who are considered proficient in spiritual knowledge by virtue of

their mastery over the Divine revelations have clearly determined as to

who

among the various deities is Supreme. Their firm declaration was made

after

deep analysis of God's own words and the subsequent annotation by

sages,

saints and seers. The most significant message by the preceptors is

{{the

total dependence of men on the Supreme Being and that they are His

servants}} (1). Vaishnavism has thus had its origin from the Divine

Couple

who handed over its chief principles to Their immediate attendants who

taught them to succeeding masters. The Supreme Being, who is the first

teacher, conveyed the knowledge to others. (Tuesday, February 16,'99)

**************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Man is totally dependent on the Supreme Being, yet he does not

realize

it. Due to his ego he becomes the doer of things, or he thinks he does

everything. In Ramayan, it is said, "Parbas Jeev, Svabas Bhagwantaa;

Jeev

Anek, Ek Srikantaa." Means, "The life is dependent on others, God is

not, He

is in His own self; lives are many but the God is ONE." We are puppets

the hands of God, in the hands of destiny. Yet due to illusion we

think

that we do everything and are not dependent on anybody or the Supreme

Being, as said in Ramayan, "Maya Basya Jeev Abhimaani; Ish Basya Maya

Gun

Khaani." Means, "In the grip of illusion life gets the ego, (but) in

the

influence of God, the same ego becomes the mines of virtues." So if we

just

divert our energies, interest, and ego towards knowing the Truth, all

these

can become our assets and we will not be dwelling in false through out

our

whole life; otherwise the same factors become our bondage of life and

could never know the Truth until the end of our life. It is not the

end of

life, it is just the beginning of other and we sure don't know that

what

kind of life that would be. Hence, is the importance of human life

-which

is "Sat", "Chit", and "Anand", provided we realize this Truth.

However,

we can't realize this until first some realized soul does not tell us

how

to, and then until we have requisite longing to see God. The supreme

teacher is within us, He also being the first teacher in the beginning

the life, but we need to know it from a spiritual teacher who know Him.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Mon, 15 Feb 1999 13:16:07 -0500

Surrender, easy means to liberation

A text attains the stature of a scripture if its subject matter

fulfills

certain conditions. A scriptural text should deal with five basic

themes:

the nature of human beings, the Supreme Being who is the end to be

attained,

the means for attaining the Lord, the nature of the end (Moksha) and

the

obstructions that arise while pursuing the goal. These five topics are

also

addressed in all philosophical texts.

{{The epic Ramayana which is the delineation of the life of the Lord}}

(1)

when He manifested as Rama, in verse, meets these conditions and hence

it is

not considered as just a Kavya but a sacred scriptural text on a par

with

the Vedas. The circumstances under which Valmiki composed the Ramayana

was

divinely ordained.

Narada visited the hermitage of Valmiki and for a question raised by

him as

to who was the most virtuous person who had inimitable traits, the

celestial

sage recounted the life of Rama briefly. Valmiki ruminating on what he

had

heard from Narada went to the river Tamasa along with his disciple

Bharadwaja for performing his daily rituals and the sight of the

killing of

the male of a pair of cranes by a hunter disturbed the sage so much

when he

saw the female bird's misery, that he spontaneously uttered a curse.

It is said, Valmiki was greatly disturbed after the incident but was

surprised that the curse that he had uttered was in the form of a

verse. It

was the element of pathos that had triggered its composition and

certainly a

great sage like him would not have cursed the hunter intentionally.

That it

was ordained by the Divine transpired soon as the creator, Brahma,

visited

the sage and blessed him and interpreted the verse to be the invocatory

verse (Mangala sloka) {{for writing the life of Rama which he had heard

from

Narada.}} (2)

The manner in which the epic was composed due to the grace of Brahma

who

blessed that the Ramayana would continue to be recited as long as the

Earth

existed has a special significance for mankind. Rama is no ordinary

hero but

the Almighty Himself who assumed the human form to set an example for

humanity. The travails that He underwent in this incarnation is a

pointer

that it is possible for man to remain true to Dharma in worldly life.

The epic has all the basic requirements of a scriptural text and the

most

important message of the text is its delineation of {{the path of

surrender

to God as an easy means to liberation which can be adopted by one and

all.

The Lord Himself had assured this during the instance of Vibhishana's

surrender}} (3). (Monday, February 15, 1999)

********************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Ramayan is truly the story of the life of the Lord, or God. It is

the

experience of the self by a saint -whether Tulsi (some 500 years ago)

Valmiki (of Sat-yug), obtained through his spiritual master while he is

his own body. Ram means God, and "Ayan" means house, thus Ramayan

means the

house of God -the human body. When we experience the presence of God

ourselves in our own bodies, we realize the Truth. Saints have written

Ramayan only after self realization or God realization, else everybody

knows

their past. Thus, Ramayan is a well known scriptural book too.

(2) It is said that sage Valmiki wrote the Ramayan before the birth of

Rama.

When Narada told him the life of Rama, it is obvious that this Rama

could

not possibly be the son of Dasharath who was not even born then. It is

said

that Rama -the son of Dasharath was born towards the end of Tretayug,

where

as Valmiki was in the end of Satyug and beginning of Tretayug. In

reality,

Narad was Valmiki's spiritual master who told him the story of the

Truth,

the God, the Rama -"Ramati so Rama", the Ram which dwells everywhere,

the

omnipresent God; and not of the son of Dasharath.

(3) The path of complete unconditional surrender is the easiest,

quickest,

and best. But one can not surrender to someone willingly unless one

loves

some one immensely. A devotee starts with identifying or knowing God,

recognizing Him, loving Him which culminates in to service and devotion

God. Even Rama -the son of Dasharath, himself was surrendered to

Vashishtha. So much so that the Rama's birth was due to Vashishtha's

will.

However, one can not surrender until one knows who to surrender -the

God.

The immense love in God brings automatic surrender. However, it is

important to define love here. Kabira said, "Prem Prem Sab Koee Kahe,

Prem

Na Jaane Koy; Jis Vidh Saain Milan Hoy, Prem Kahaave Soee." Means,

"Everybody says love but no body knows what love is; only the way by

which

God is seen is known as love." Even the common love which most of us

are

familiar with is also due to the presence of a fraction of that God in

us,

hence we love our children, spouse, friends, etc. else we don't, we

can't.

The goal of human life is to turn that fraction in to whole. Make the

body

as the seat of the Lord, God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Fri, 12 Feb 1999 12:15:29 -0500

Renunciation, key to true happiness

All created beings are made of the three gunas, Sattva, Rajas and

Tamas, the

combination of which is responsible for the different qualities they

exhibit. This is especially relevant to human beings as man can

actualize

his spiritual potential. Man's personality is conditioned by the gunas

which

is to a large extent determined by the deeds performed in his previous

lives. This predisposition is called Vasana (natural tendency) which

gives

the distinct individuality to each person.

When Sattva predominates the person is very virtuous and will be

gracious

towards others to the extent of even sacrificing his interest. Those

with a

Rajasic disposition are assertive in nature, but well-disposed towards

others though they will not go to the extent of forfeiting their

interest

for the sake of others. The third type of person is utterly selfish and

will

go to any length to protect his interest.

It is said, the manner in which the queens of Dasaratha reacted to the

banishment of Rama to the forest highlights the role of the gunas in

shaping

the human personality. Kaikeyi was interested only in providing for

what she

felt was good for her son Bharata and thus she wanted the kingdom to be

given to him and was not bothered that her action would cause grief to

others. Whereas, Kausalya had the well-being of both her son Rama and

his

brothers at heart.

Sumitra personifies the Sattvic type, the most noble of all the three,

for

she did not mind parting with Lakshmana when he wanted to accompany

Rama to

the forest. Her advice to him that his duty lay in serving his brother

always was the most noblest gesture of all.

This nature in a human being borders on divinity and it further

highlights

that man can rise to the level of the divine only through renunciation.

long as there is a trace of selfishness in his actions man cannot

realize

the joy in sacrificing. The Kamba Ramayanam while describing the

episode of

Guha meeting the three queens highlights these variations in human

nature in

the words of Bharata, "Because she gave birth to Rama - a rare and

unique

achievement - she is in possession of the rarest of wealth. She is a

great

woman who now stands deprived of all that, owing to my birth.

Introducing Sumitra, Bharata said, "She is a woman who has never

departed

from the virtuous path and always maintained a life of truth," and

pointing

to his mother he remarked, "As a result of Rama's departure to the

forest,

agony is writ large on the face of everyone except her." The Kamba

Ramayanam

besides its poetic excellence, gives philosophical insight into every

episode of the epic. (Friday, February 12, 1999)

**********************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Renunciation means being free of all three "gunas" and three stages

life "jagrat", "svapna" and "shushupti". Since the entire universe or

"prakrati" is made of three gunas, when one goes beyond these, one goes

to the domain of "param purush" -pure spirit. This can not be done

until

one has attachments with worldly things including his own body. In a

stage

of trance or "samadhi" or "turiya" one can go beyond three gunas and

three

"avashtas" or stages of life. Since the spirit or God is pure bliss it

bound to give true happiness.

People desirous of obtaining true happiness must seek the path of

spirituality -walking on which renunciation is a must and the bliss or

true

happiness is an assured guarantee.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Thu, 11 Feb 1999 12:35:09 -0500

Devotion to God, an end in itself

The human personality endowed with the senses, mind and the intellect,

the perfect instrument to realize God unlike other life forms. So human

birth itself is a rare privilege, the significance of which must never

lost amidst the day-to-day worldly preoccupations. Sage Suka has, in

the

Srimad Bhagavata, stressed that the senses and the mind must always be

engaged in devotional activities. Many saints have expressed the idea

that

only the time devoted to God is well-spent.

The manner in which secular life can be spiritualised is through

constant

association with holy and pious people ({{Satsangh}}(1) ). By doing so,

one

develops detachment slowly from secular matters and devotion takes

root. The

lives of devotees also serve to strengthen devotion as they serve as

examples.

The earliest documentation of the exploits of a great devotee is in the

Sundara Kanda of the Ramayana. Hanuman's heroic deeds and his sterling

devotion to Rama are a source of perennial inspiration. The Ramayana of

Valmiki is a pioneering devotional work which kindles devotion in the

heart

of one who reads or listens to it, as it recounts the glory of the Lord

who

manifested on this Earth for the sake of humanity.

It was due to Dasaratha's performance of austerities over a long period

time that he became worthy of siring the Lord Himself as his son. This

highlights the fact that the Almighty favors those who uphold

righteousness

and are devoted to Him; but, one must not perform austerities with some

ulterior motive or for reward. Devotion to God is an end in itself and

not a means to realize some other objective.

It is said that the birth of Rama brought immense delight not only to

Dasaratha, but also to all those who had the great fortune of coming

into

contact with Him. The epic records the immense joy experienced by those

who

had a chance to behold Rama. He was a repository of all auspicious

qualities

which prompted the writing of the epic by Sage Valmiki.

{{Valmiki questioned Sage Narada, "Who can be full of virtues in this

world

at present? Nay, who is possessed of prowess and knows what is

right...?"

Narada thus became Valmiki's Guru for it was his grace that enabled the

sage

to compose the Ramayana in chaste verses}} (2). The tradition of

narrating

and listening to God's glory was also started by Valmiki for he taught

the

Ramayana to Rama's sons Lava and Kusa during Sita's stay in his

hermitage

and they chanted the same before Rama Himself. Thus the Ramayana is not

only

a poetical work but also a matchless devotional work. (Thursday,

February

11, 1999)

*************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Satsang is commonly known as singing devotional songs with musical

instruments. This gives an attendee a feeling of fellowship, company,

and

some thing to think about God, but it is not truly a Satsang. This

type of

gathering and activities are better than indulgence in other vices,

such as

drinking and dancing in clubs, or reading and seeing obscene novels and

literature's, etc. Since such a Satsang is done by singing devotional

songs

aloud -involving mouth and tongue, hearing musical instruments

-involving

ears, and sometimes even getting immersed "Jhumna" in the music

-involving

other organs such as hands, feet, and body; all it does is pleasing our

senses. The mind never calms down, instead it registers the reflexes

from

various senses and gratifies with it. Thus such a Satsang is better

than

doing nothing or nonsensical things, but the true Satsang -as the word

implies, is the company (Sang) of the Truth (Sat), which is beyond the

body,

mind, wisdom, intellect and ego. Since holy and pious people are

constantly

in the company of the Truth, their company -whether constant or at

times,

gives us the inspiration for being in Satsang. We develop love for

them,

which turns in to devotion and service. Eventually we learn to be in

the

company of Truth, the Atma or spirit, soul, or God within us and

realize the

Truth elsewhere. Until we realize the Truth within us we can not see

that

live force around us, the omnipresent, omniscient, omnipotent God.

(2) When Valmiki asked Narad, "who can be full of virtues in this world

present?" obviously at that present moment there was none else between

them

two, so it has to be Narad; and the world is far big and large that he

never

knew the end of it or any nook and corner of it. His world was right

there

with Narad. Who else could know what is right between them two? Only

Narad

(as the other is asking), who became his Guru, only whose grace enabled

the

sage to write his own experience in Ramayan. Only by Guru's grace one

can

know God. There is no other way in this universe; and there is only a

subtle difference between Guru and God. Just like a student interested

learning English seeks an English teacher, but if he seeks all other

i.e.,

French, Russian, Italian, Hindi, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, etc.

teachers

but an English teacher, rest assured he sure does not or can not learn

English; hence, wise man desirous of learning spirituality seeks a

spiritual

master.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Wed, 10 Feb 1999 12:33:55 -0500

Moral order can never be destroyed

{{The Vedas}} (1) are the ultimate authority regarding all matters

pertaining to man's conduct in the religion of Sanatana dharma

(Hinduism).

The knowledge they impart is of eternal principles that govern the

entire

creation in which man has to understand his role and discharge his

duties.

The moral order which sustains the creation is referred to as "Dharma",

though the word has several connotations according to the context in

which

it is used.

The means of gaining knowledge of Dharma has been broadly classified

into

four. The primary source, is, of course, {{the Vedas (Sruti)}} (2). As

it is

not possible for all to master them the sages of yore had out of

compassion

for humanity compiled the important guidelines into handy manuals.

These

texts which go by the general name of Dharmasastras, are called

(3), because they have been written by the Rishis unlike the Vedas

which are

revelations. But it is important to note that they are based on the

Vedas.

{{The third source of Dharma recommended by the scriptures themselves

those people who have God realization, know the Truth, or Spirit and

are

living -usually elders. They are not only adept in the scriptures but

also

practice them. Any doubt that arises can be clarified from them and in

fact

it is easier to imbibe practices from elders. One can also adopt such

righteous practices which give one satisfaction but this does not mean

that

one has the freedom to do whatever one likes; one's actions must not

violate

social norms or hurt others}} (4).

It is said that no one could destroy Dharma. There may be degeneration

its practice from time to time but there can never be total

annihilation

because of its universal and eternal nature. Lord Krishna in the Gita

has

said, "Whenever righteousness is on the decline and unrighteousness is

the ascendant, then I manifest," and has not indicated that there will

total destruction of Dharma at any time.

The nuances of Dharma cannot be understood by the human intellect. It

is for

this reason that the scriptures have categorically declared in many

instances that the intricacies must be learnt from elders. For all

practical

purposes it is safer to assume that those practices which are

sanctioned by

pious elders are best to follow and one must abstain from doing such

actions

that do not meet with their approval.

Dharma has been classified as general and particular for the purpose of

easy

adoption in daily life. Some, like speaking the truth, are applicable

all, whereas, there are specific ones which are applicable only on

certain

occasions or at a particular stage of life. (Tuesday, February 9, 1999)

*************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The real meaning of Vedas is knowledge. To know about the Truth,

the

God, the self or spirit or soul. Vedas are books too and one can get

knowledge from reading those scriptural books but one can not have self

realization by that. Literature written by self realized persons

becomes

scriptures, or Veda, Ramayan or Gita, etc. The knowledge obtained

through

any or all senses is perishable, and is much different than the eternal

knowledge experienced from the spirit or spiritual plane.

(2) Srutis are those documents written by people who heard their

contents

from a self realized soul, usually a saint or rishi. These reveal the

experience of the realized person but do not give the experience to its

readers, these only give the bookish knowledge.

(3) Smrtis are those documents written by either the self realized

persons

themselves or by people who heard it from a self realized person and

wrote,

at a later date, what ever they could remember. Smritis written by a

self

realized person are superior to Smritis written by its listener.

(4) This is by far the most important of all. This is also the most

popular method. That is why it is taught in school, colleges, ashram,

vidyalaya, etc. by live teachers. The important and crucial point in

this

is that the living saint must be a perfect person having complete God

realization else the fake and phony religions, panths, denominations,

and

individual philosophies emerge which at times do more harm than help to

any

sincere seeker. Hence one should always seek a living perfect spiritual

master. It is the cardinal principle of spirituality that only a

living

being could help raise another living being's consciousness; no amount

dead objects (may that be scriptural books) can help the living being

raising its consciousness level; the other way, i.e., only a fully

realized

living being can write down his experience in the form of (any dead

objects)

books, tapes, video, etc. to encourage interested seekers, is possible

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Mon, 8 Feb 1999 13:02:34 -0500

Piety, an excellent human quality

Noble thoughts and sentiments entertained by any person in his heart

and

following this trait, carrying out acts which help others and fetch

them

benefits are bound to be rewarded. Instances are not lacking to show

how a

person who intends to do only good and who puts this idea into action

has

been repaid with rich dividends. Good gestures will never turn a waste.

For

the help so extended, the person will get the return if not forthwith

some time or the other, by the recipient or someone connected with him.

Piety in any form is thus an excellent human quality. The Ramayana

illustrates this brilliantly.

Pets in particular reciprocate to such acts of affection. At times,

even

plants, which even ages ago were believed to breathe, reacted in favor

those who tended them. When a dog misses its master for sometime, its

joy on

seeing him return and fondle it, is only to be experienced. Plants

regularly

watered and taken due care of but get partially dried on account of

temporary absence, will recover quickly the moment those who tend them

come

back and water them. All living beings possess the trait of

"friendship" and

do not fail to demonstrate it.

At the time of departure to the forest during exile, with Her Lord,

Sita

made a special request to those left behind, to pay proper attention to

the

cows and birds she was safeguarding in the palace.

Rama was calm even in the face of the worst calamity. Kamban says that

had not only refrained from accusing Kaikeyi but deprecated others

blaming

her. When Lakshmana rages against her on hearing about Rama's exile for

the

first time, the God- incarnate calmed him down.

The goal of life is to get liberated from worldly chains and to reach

God's

kingdom. This could be done only by adhering to the path of virtue very

strictly. There is scope to enjoy worldly pleasures and to acquire

wealth,

both within certain parameters. King Dasaratha gave up prosperity when

decided to relinquish his reins of administration and did not mind

forsaking

pleasure when he got rid of the clutches of the queen who sought Rama's

exile. But on no account did he discard his commitment to Truth and

Righteousness. No wonder was he able to go to the Divinity's empire.

In the portrayal of Sita, the poet (Kamban) points out how she was the

abode

of tenderness of heart, compassion, wisdom, courage and endurance. To

Her

Rama was everything. The manner in which She convinced Rama that She

should

go with Him to the forest reflected Her knowledge in various subjects.

(Monday, February 8, '99)

***********************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Only in a complete yoga stage, a yogi gets his or her fulfillment

from

and in the spirit, and spirit only. That is the stage of the

equanimity and

calmness. The yogi is then neutral -not affected by pleasures or

pains,

joys or sorrows. This stage is only reached through piety, which is

love,

devotion and service. Only people who have reached this stage can

initiate

it in those who are interested in yoga and spirituality.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Fri, 5 Feb 1999 13:15:23 -0500

Prayers help mitigate one's sufferings

One of the cardinal principles governing man's birth and his activities

during his stay in this world, mentioned in all the holy works of

Hinduism,

relates to his deeds in his past life. Based on the theory of cause and

effect or action and reaction, the soul takes a body and enjoys

prosperity

or is made to face adversity. Thus, this pattern follows the universal

law

"as a man sows, so does he reap". If in the past, a person had spent

his

life in accordance with the guidelines prescribed in the scriptural

directives, his succeeding birth will be fruitful and he will do good

only.

The question then arises as to why should a person pray to the Lord as

had already been destined to enjoy or suffer on account of his previous

actions. Our sages have not left this doubt unanswered. The Bhagavatham

contains the explanation and it could be culled out from the various

utterances of the ancient spiritual wisdom. Sage Suka points out that

what

type of birth one should take next has not been decided yet and the

same

would be done according to one's acts - positive or negative - in this

birth. The spiritual exercises when adopted will make a man adhere to

righteous path and so, his next life would be smooth. Also, prayers and

other practices are sure to mitigate the intensity of the sufferings he

may

have to face now.

Bhagavatham refers to a conversation between Lord and His devotee

wherein

the latter appealed to the Lord to release him from the cycle of births

and

deaths. The Lord reminded him of the law of action and reaction and

said

that as soon as the fruits of his deeds have been enjoyed, he would be

ready

for the rebirth. The devotee wanted in that case he might be made to be

born

as a dog and to lay at the entrance of the Lord's temple so that he

would

have a glimpse of the devotees visiting the Lord, think always of the

Golden

Feet of God, and get immersed in devotion.

Apart from dealing with the Lord's numerous incarnations, this sacred

text

details His appearance on earth as Krishna, dealing with His childhood

days,

His pranks in the houses of the village community and His destruction

demons sent to wipe Him out. In one instance, the Lord clipped the ego

entertained by some because of their nearness to Him. This scriptural

work

is an ocean of devotional ideas. God can be approached through devotion

and

by developing an attitude of attachment though man will always be

pulled by

several distractions. {{Clinging to God's Holy Feet will surely make

devotees resort only to the path of virtue}} (1). (Friday, Feb. 5, '99)

**********************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) There is no other way. When one is constantly clinged to God's

Holy

Feet there remain no time left to fool with other worldly things and

all the

virtues of God are bound to come in the devotee, if God so wishes.

Constant

meditation "Dhyan" on the God's Lotus Feet pleases God and the law of

cause

and effect, actually all other physical laws of nature ceases affect.

This

becomes the end of the cycle of births and deaths and the devotee

becomes

quite independent or free full of bliss and internal happiness.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Devotion to Lord, not a barren ritual

Wed, 3 Feb 1999 12:50:42 –

The richness and diversity of the universe is a fact of experience. But

the

reals constituting this universe are not in a chaotic mess. There is

order,

regulation, mutual adjustment and harmony in life. This shows that

there is

no unrestricted freedom for all to act as they please. Hence, {{the

very

principle of dependence}} (1) presupposes {{the existence and presence

of an

"Independent" authority who controls all activities of the mortals}}

(2).

That authority is God or the Supreme Being who should be accepted as

the

creator and sustainer of this vast and stupendous organization. None

can

equal that Supreme. This is the view of Sri Madhwacharya (late 19th

century), expounded in his system of philosophy known as "Dwaita" or

dualism. In one sentence the Acharya conceptualizes Him thus,

{{"Independence is God"}} (3)..

The Acharya was charged with the task of uplifting humanity from

foolish

ways and enabling it to walk erect on the path of devotion and service.

His

creed of devotion was backed by the wise counsel to perform one's

duties.

The simple way in which he countered the arguments of some is amazing.

{{"If

we are masters of our own destiny, and if there is no God, why then are

not able to achieve what all we desire nor prevent happenings which we

not want to take place?" }} (4). He has given a meaning and substance

ethical efforts and spiritual exercises. {{Devotion is not a mere

barren

ritual but embraces service to humanity as a necessary, indispensable

part

of it}} (5).

On the occasion of Madhwa Navami, the Acharya's teachings is summed up

follows: "God is the real doer and men are only tools (dependent

agents) in

His hands. Hence, the knower of truth should think that he does nothing

himself. He should dedicate all his doings to God with detachment. Then

only

he will remain unaffected even as a lotus leaf is not drenched by

water." In

a hymn, it is stated that {{"there is none equal to Madhava (God), none

equal to Madhwa as the spiritual mentor, nor to his valid doctrines and

none

equal to one who has digested his works."}} (6)

During the last century, a sorcerer, not able to defeat the Swami in

philosophical debate, used his evil power to cause him a nasty type of

illness which prevented him from conducting his daily worship of the

Lord.

Praying to God, the Swami cut off the upper portion of a banana tree,

causing this to be the exit for the evil power, thereby proving that

the

body, an instrument of God, can be cleansed of impurities if the

thoughts

are turned towards God. (Wednesday, February 03, 1999)

**************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) People think they are independent, but they forget that they could

not

have existed without depending on their mothers, who bore them, reared

them,

nurtured them and made them able to think of independence.

(2) We may not see stars during day but that does not negate their

presence

out there in the sky. They exist. It is the ignorance of ours, as

bright

as the sun, that masks the abundant light they have just because they

are

far away. The God exists in abundance but due to our ignorance that we

consider Him far out there. He is so close to us and being so big

until we

shed off our ego to nothing and move ourselves in to a different plane

that

the big object can be seen with our immortal eye. It is impossible to

see

Him with our mortal eyes by our being so small and He being infinite,

hence

we have to come out of our physical, material plane and get in to the

spiritual plane to enable ourselves to see Him -the immortal, Truth,

spirit

or self.

(3) So if any human being is dependent on food to eat, water to drink,

and

air to breath he is not god. But if that human being goes in to

meditation,

obtain Samadhi or trance -a "Turiya" state of life, where he is not

dependent on anything but God -that infinite, would he not be God like?

(4) We only think so, that is, we are masters of our own destiny. We

that because we do not know the Truth. The fact that we even can not

sneeze

when we want to, or can not pass out waste unless the pressure (cramp)

started, or vice versa, indicates that the real doer -the spirit, is

some

one else and we are just the vehicle or instrument, which moves only

until

the wind is exhausted. Who winds it? We! How can we be when even our

existence was not there before we were conceived? A friend of mine

could

not do much when his son fell sick and went in to coma for 8 days or

so. He

kept asking, why me, why my son only? Is it not something he did want

prevent happening but he could not; Is it not something he wished to

get his

son well right away but he could not achieve that wish? Many things

happen

out of nothing for which reasoning fails. There is a reason but we do

not

know it. We just do not know our past lives or our future, until of

course

we are able to know such.

(5) Devotion is nothing else but service to humanity, which only comes

after

we know a perfect human -call him God. This knowledge comes when we

have

love in our hearts for living beings, specially humans -not limited to

(our)

spouses, children, and relatives or people who we know, they are only a

part, not the total humanity. But unfortunately, we only say we love

them

and it is very hard, if not impossible, to love some human who we even

not know.

(6) This is trinity (similar to -the Father, the Son, and Holy ghost)

-the

God, the spiritual preceptor or mentor, and one who wants to know it

-can be

you or anyone. Gyey, Gyan, and Gyata. The goal -the God, to be known

and

achieved, the knowledge from the one who knows Him -the Guru, and the

knower

who wants to know -the disciple or seeker. When anyone of these three

not there the other two can not be known. This proves that if we -the

knower, exist, the other two also exist. Those who have known Him,

seen

Him, have said so; and that is enough of the evidence that God is

there.

This fact (that people known Him) makes the very argument about non

existence of God mute, futile; the point is how one can accomplish his

goal. All the efforts, energies and resources including this body,

mind and

all the wealth of the world must be utilized to know Him -the God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Fri, 15 Jan 1999 13:10:15 -0500

Prerequisites of spiritual life

A spiritual aspirant who adopts the path of action (Karma yoga)

enunciated

in the Bhagavad Gita must constantly remember the scriptural guidelines

while applying it in his daily life because it involves conscious

reorientation of all actions to the ultimate goal, which is liberation

from

rebirths.

{{The material end which results from every action must be subservient

the spiritual goal. This requires a discriminating mind which should be

able

to understand clearly what is eternal and what is ephemeral in life.

Except

the spiritual end, all other achievements in life are not lasting. }}

(1)

To enable the seeker to remember the spiritual goal, the mind must be

attuned properly without allowing it to be distracted. Otherwise, it

will

always be preoccupied with material ends. {{The only way to remain true

the goal is through involving God in all actions, the reason being that

all

other ends have an element of impurity because they are material. By

remembering God in all endeavors even routine actions become worship of

the

Divine. }} (2)

In Bhagavad Gita, it is said that the aspirant must have absolute faith

divine dispensation. Mental preparedness to accept the result of one's

action as God's grace (Prasada), especially when it is unfavorable,

with

equanimity of mind, is important spiritually. If one meets with success

then

one must not take the credit, but accept that as an act of divine

grace.

It is important to remember that human effort is absolutely necessary

every action. As the impediments that arise may be beyond one's

control, to

thwart them God's grace is essential.

Most of the problems in life are due to the reason that one does not

enjoy

what one does. This can be seen especially in the case of a person's

avocation which he may be doing due to family commitments. This creates

unnecessary tensions and conflicts in life. What is the way out for

those

who are caught in such a situation? If one does not have a choice to

switch

over to a job of one's liking, one has to make a conscious effort to

enjoy

doing it.

{{Contrary to the general notion that one who takes to the spiritual

path

gets divorced from worldly life, only a person who has oriented his

life to

the spiritual goal develops a balanced perspective of life.}} (3)

Without

being cynical he is an embodiment of optimism and compassion, develops

serenity of mind accepting the Truth. (Friday, January 15, 1999) *********************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) It is just like every morning we had to go to work where we spend

most

of our time. But we just can not wake up, jump out of bed and go to

work.

We have to go to bath room, brush our teeth, shave, take shower, dress

up,

pray, eat breakfast, polish our shoes, take our overcoat, umbrella,

briefcase, etc. and then go to work. All these works are essential but

subservient to the main task of going to work. All these works are for

doing the main task, else we can do anything we want, at any time and

in any

order we wish on holidays when we don't go to work. However, if we

spend

all our time in any and all of these subservient works we will get late

for

the work as we won't be able to go to work. Therefore, everything in

the

life -eating, drinking, seeing, reading, listening devotional music or

discourses, working jobs, sleeping, going temples, meeting people, etc.

are

all for ONE purpose -meeting God, knowing God, Knowing the Truth. And

we do everything, wasting our entire life in doing all the rest

subservient

things, except knowing God, knowing who are we? what is our real self?

then

we have wasted our life. We did not go to work for which we dressed up

and

did all other pre- actions. This would be just like a student who went

school all his life, read all through the whole night before the

examination to sleep in the morning to miss the examination.

(2) This is the easiest way also. Everything we eat or drink we offer

God before we eat or drink; everything we see or hear we see God's

beauty in

it, purpose in it. Everyone we meet we see God's image in them.

Everything

we do we see God's work in it. We become the "Drashthaa" spectator and

witness every work we do instead of becoming the doer. We consider

ourselves as the medium through which God is getting all and any work

done

through us. We sacrifice or kill ourselves to live the eternal,

happiest

life one ever lived. Then it is very easy to see or know the Truth,

the

self, the God.

(3) How can you leave the world? It is impossible to do so. Even

after you

leave this body the ashes stays in one or other form in this world or

universe. And what happens to the spirit, soul? It also stays here

but in

different form and shape having different name depending upon the time,

"Karma", "Savbhaava", "Gunas" as chased by the illusion or "Maayaa"

until

God mercifully give us the human birth again for no interest of His

just to

liberate from this cycle of birth, death and rebirth. Therefore,

leaving

the entire world, means living in the world yet living unattached to

it,

the wise men pray God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Thu, 14 Jan 1999 07:55:53 -0500

Service to God, goal of human life

In the hymns composed by saints in praise of God, it is customary to

express

their objective right at the outset. This is especially true when they

express their desire to perform eternal service to the Lord right in

the

beginning and discusses it again later when He appeared before them to

grant

them liberation.

Having reached the inner apartments of Nandagopa's house where Krishna

and

Radha were seated, in that very early morning hour because it would be

impossible to meet Him otherwise. This hour is considered auspicious

for

spiritual practice as the mind will be free from worldly

preoccupations.

{{That Self-surrender is the only way open to them as they are not

eligible

to adopt other spiritual methods}} (1) is highlighted in some hymns.

Just as

the rivers flow towards the ocean and the lotus blooms when the sun

rises,

{{man exists for the sake of the Almighty alone}} (2).

More than the act of service it is the frame of mind of the devotee

while

performing it which is important. The Lord has drawn attention to this

the Bhagavad Gita wherein it is mentioned that even a leaf, a flower, a

fruit or water offered with love and devotion pleases Him.

Saints portray succinctly what one should seek from the Almighty. If

service

to Him is the ultimate goal after performance of surrender to God, one

must

pray to Him to remain true to the goal. When their wish was granted

they

further beseech that the Lord should enable them to remain true to Him

without allowing their mind to be swayed by worldly distractions.

(Thursday,

January 14, 1999)

***********************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) As said in yesterday's Food for thoughts, self surrender is not

for

people who are not eligible to adopt other spiritual methods. It is

said to

be much superior to all other methods. It is considered that the

unconditional, selfless surrender is due to love and not compulsion;

It is

a success not a failure. The love, devotion and service involves

sacrifice

and is like the wife of God where as the selfish service, conditional

(failed from there so it is here) surrender is like a maid or a dancer

God. Remember, God can fire the maid, even God's consort (wife) can

fire a

maid where as the wife can fire a husband, or rather a husband can not

fire

a wife without her consent and without missing her or without paying a

heavy

compensation. So devoted surrender is far superior than that of

surrendering because you failed from all other recourses, which of

course

may not fulfill your objective and goal anyway.

(2) The cause or reason of the man's birth as human is to know God,

and

its (human life's) purpose is also to know God. Then why not know the

Truth

instead of clinging to the false inanimate world.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Wed, 13 Jan 1999 13:38:02 -0500

Almighty's grace, unconditional

{{Self-surrender (Saranagati) is meant for the spiritual aspirant who

unable to adopt the other prescribed paths to liberation. The aspirant

must

take refuge in God expressing his inability to adopt the other methods

and

the feeling of utter lowliness is the sine quo non of surrender. The

aspirant must constantly remember his failings and repose absolute

faith in

God.}} (1)

The Lord's grace is unconditional and He can grant anything and there

is no

necessity for the aspirant to express his requirements. In the case of

man's

redemption from bondage his sins act as the barrier between him and

God. The

spiritual practices are meant to counteract the sins. When a female

saint

sought Him as the end the Lord responded by asking what they all had

done to

merit His grace. She declared that they had not done anything as they

were

simple folks who had no knowledge of the scriptures.

It is said that the Lord pointed out that their act of going behind the

cows

by itself was a meritorious deed and He could grant their wish for this

act

alone. But the saint had no such pretensions about their merit. She

says

categorically that they tended the cows because it was their

occupation.

Even if one does not follow the path of action prescribed in the

scriptures

one could deserve God's grace through spiritual knowledge. "But this is

certainly ruled out in our case," says saint, "because we are ignorant

cowherd-maidens." In spite of all these demerits they were greatly

blessed

because the Lord had chosen to live amidst them of His own accord.

Thus saint underscores the Almighty's compassionate nature which is the

overriding factor in the redemption of the soul from bondage. Lest the

Lord

should decide against granting them liberation because they did not

deserve

it, the saint cautions that their relationship is eternal and hence He

cannot overlook this. As the Lord of all creation He had no choice but

claim them as His own. Unlike other worldly relationships, the

relationship

between the Lord and His creation cannot be severed. (Wednesday,

January 13,

1999)

*************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) One can not surrender to someone willingly unless they like and

love him

or her without any expectation or return. It (surrender) is the best

option

one can choose, not because one is unable to adopt other options.

Actually

other options may be easier, out of compulsion or selfish interest and

they

do not yield the company of God, so why should one spend his or her

time and

effort which does not yield the desired result or goal. To surrender

unconditionally is only possible when there is an abundant of love and

liking for God and you are ready to sacrifice everything for Him. It

is not

the inability to adopt the other methods, it is the ability, wisdom and

smartness of choosing the best specially when it yields the desired

result

-God realization. If one remembers his failings and one develops utter

lowliness, one would be depressed and will not be able to do anything.

There is a difference between self surrendering to God with love and

devotion and the slavery of God. The former is like the consort of the

God

-Bhakti, where as the later is like a maid or dancer -Maya. In Ramayan

is said, "Maayaa Bhagati Sunhu Tumha Dou, Naari Barg Jaanai Sab Kou;

Puni

Raghubeerhi Bhagati Piaaree, Maayaa Khalu Nartaki Bichaaree." Means,

"You

listen, both illusion (Maya) and devotion (Bhakti) are feminine,

everybody

knows that; yet God loves the devotion and the illusion is like a poor

wicked dancer (at the command of God)." Thus surrendering as a beloved

and

surrendering as a slave are two big different things. It is though

very

hard to love some body selflessly, but once a person who loves God

selflessly instigate us we know the hard part easily. God blesses us

with

the company of such person and the way to God becomes clear.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Righteousness must be upheld always

Tue, 12 Jan 1999 12:14:23 -0500

The decline in righteousness (Dharma) in this Kali age has been

foreseen in

the scriptures. There are four Yugas in every cosmic cycle and

according to

the scriptures the first Yuga is characterized by Dharma and there is

gradual decline in it progressively. The Kali Yuga being the last it is

un-righteousness which is in preponderance now and Dharma is upheld

only by

a very small percentage of people. The Almighty incarnates from time to

time

to re-establish righteousness whenever there is degeneration to the

extent

that it affects those who adhere to the path of Dharma.

His manifestations as Rama and Krishna in which He assumed the human

form

are especially important in this regard. When He manifested as Rama He

was

able to accomplish the purpose of His manifestation much easily than

when He

incarnated as Krishna because of the nature of the Yuga. Righteousness

was

predominant in that age and even the lay people were conversant with

the

nuances of Dharma.

It is said that the episode of Rama befriending Sugriva and promising

him to

vanquish his brother Bali, threw light on the nuances of Dharma. Though

birth Sugriva was a monkey the Lord befriended him which highlights His

accessibility to one and all. Sympathizing with his plight very easily,

for

Rama was also in the same frame of mind because of separation from

Sita, He

promised to restore his kingdom and wife to him.

When Sugriva challenged Bali to a fight at Rama's behest, Tara

cautioned her

husband that it was his new-found friend Rama who had vowed to kill

him.

Kamba Ramayanam dilates on Bali's sense of propriety and moral

uprightness

in this episode. Greatly pained on hearing Tara's aspersion about

Rama's

intention Bali countered, "What a sinner you are. It was this world,

unable

to put an end to the evils here, that had invited Rama to remove them.

You

have uttered words that are a blasphemy to Rama who has shown the path

Dharma by his very actions... What will He gain by killing me?"

It was his abiding faith in Rama that he would not compromise on

righteousness that emboldened Bali to question the propriety of Rama's

action when he learnt that His arrow had fatally wounded him. Pointing

out

that {{His father had given up his life for the sake of truth and honor

his race}} (1) he asked Him, {{"Do you think that a wrongful deed done

you can escape condemnation simply because you prevent others from

doing

wrongful deeds?}} (2) You are supposed to be... the custodian of

Dharma."

Rama pointed out the un-righteous acts that Bali had committed.

(Tuesday,

Jan. 12, '99)

*************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Dasharath gave up his life while upholding his words. Dharam

dictates

that we always speak Truth, even if we have to die for it, as said in

Ramayan, "Raghupati Riti Sadaa Chali Aaee, Praana Jaaee Par Vachan Na

Jaaee." Means, "This is the tradition of noble people that they always

speaks truth, they do what they say even if they had to die to keep

thier

words."

(2) No wrongful deeds done can escape punishment except in case God

pardons

it. The law of Karma requires that every action has a befitting

result.

Only saints or God can override this law. Even if we prevent others

from

doing wrongful deeds but ourselves keep doing wrongful acts, we will

have to

bear its result.

We shall reap so shall we sow, although mercy can only come from the

mercyful God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Sat, 9 Jan 1999 13:46:27 -0500

All events take place as per God's will

Religious history of India {{establishes the significance of various

rites and rituals performed as part of the spiritual exercises to gain

Divine grace}} (1). Some may entertain the view that {{these

ceremonies - minor in nature or major - requiring greater personal

sacrifice are of no relevance now}}(2).

The prayers that are offered will reach the Supreme Being but {{minor

deities and God's other creations who are also vested with some

powers, should also be revered}} (3). The Mantras uttered on such

occasions will enable devotees to get their blessings too.

{{That even God, when assuming the human form as an ordinary citizen,

strictly observed the religious rites has been clearly explained to us

in the Ramayana}} (4).

The Divine drama reveals as to how events take place only according to

God's plan. Otherwise, a woman, who had held the hero as her son,

could not have changed her decision within a brief time. Elaborate

arrangements had been made for Rama's coronation but the entire scene

underwent total transformation resulting in Rama's banishment.

The God- incarnate was half-way through the religious procedures when

He was summoned. Even on His return after being informed about

Kaikeyi's demands, He was cool and completed the rites,

circumambulating the vessels containing water made holy by the

recitation of Mantras. Rama's face resembled the lotus found in a

picture, both when he was asked to ascend the throne and when he was

banished to the forest.

Because of this most unexpected attitude of Kaikeyi, posterity speaks

ill of her. On the other hand, it was part of the Divine plan. She was

assigned this role. But for her, the scenes in Ramayana would not have

proceeded further and the Lord could not have achieved His purposes of

incarnation - to punish the evil and protect the pious. "Will any one

like his or her fame to be tarnished? No one will invite such a

predicament", particularly pinpointing Kaikeyi's sacrifice, though she

had incurred the displeasure of so many.

Guhan, the hunter chieftain, could guess about this "Truth" when

Bharata met him. Mysterious are God's deeds. The Lord had not

expressed any opinion about Kaikeyi's demand. Rama passed through the

courtyard where vessels containing sanctified water were kept as part

of the coronation rites, very slowly. He set an example that rules in

the scriptures should be observed strictly, by all, whatever the

position they occupy. (Saturday, January 9,1999)

***************************************************

COMMENTRARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Spiritual exercises are done in our own body, mind, intellect,

chit, and ego, and no external rites and rituals are performed to gain

divine grace. If we study chemistry how can we learn geography,

similarly if we perform Yagnas or rituals and rites we will only get

the results of performing those Yagnas or rituals and rites; but if we

love God we will get to know God.

(2) The spirit is ONE, and it is all ONE, just like the waters of the

ocean and all other waters of the rivers, rain, ponds, etc. There is

no minor and major spirit, just like there is no minor and major

water, it's all H2O, or same element. Jeev (lives) are all different

but where is the minor or major spirits? It is just like: the cotton

is same in all clothes, whereas the clothes may be of different

texture, design, sizes, etc. There are no ceremonies involved in

spiritual realization. All ceremonies are developed by rituals,

customs, rites, etc. which varies from place to place and time to

time. These are all false because these are all mortals, ceremonies

varies, are distorted, become extinct, and new rituals grows, where as

the spirit is immortal, infinite, and ever pervading.

(3) Everything has power -more or less. Even an ant, or a leaf of a

plant, or a grain of sand has some energy in it, why would these

deities not have power? They do. If we revere them it's okay, we get

some power from them or their blessings, but our main focus should

always be to know God -the source of all power. Know the seed which

has the whole tree in it. Know God from which everything in the

world, rather universes including deities, get power.

(4) Ramayan is a great thing. When we can see Raam in this Ramayan

we know the meaning of Ramayan; what is it really telling us? How and

why different characters are acting so in Ramayan -a drama? Raam -ONE

dwelling everywhere, is God; where as when IT personified in human

form as Ram Chandra -the son of Dasharath, is also God, but that God

was there in "Treta Yuga". The formless God manifested for performing

particlar works for the sake of His devotees for a limited time during

his life span. He was like an ordinary person yet full of all virtues

without any of the vices, thus an extraordinary ONE. It is very hard

to know that formless God (although it is very easy to worship),

therefore is the need to know the God with a form which is also hard

to worship but only way it is possible to do so with our mortal

bodies. One should therefore seek the knower of the knowledge of God

to know Him. He will tell you the "Gyan" with which you the "Gyata"

will be able to know the "Gey" -the God. If any one of these three

items is missing it would not be possible to know God.

With best wishes.

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

God keen to reform erring individuals

Fri, 8 Jan 1999 12:22:42 -0500

An embodiment of true devotion

Thu, 7 Jan 1999 12:17:49 -0500

Devotion is of three types - motivated, unmotivated and the ultimate.

In the

third kind the devotee sees the Lord as Immanent. There had been

innumerable

devotees who had done yeoman service not only to the Lord but also to

Lord's

messengers and His ardent devotees. But an exceptional example of the

third

category who dedicated everything - his body and soul to the Lord was

Anjaneya. He realized that Rama was an incarnation of the Supreme Being

and

{{served Him with pure love and devotion without expecting anything in

return}} (1). He was humble, brave and wise and possessed all the

virtues

expected of a true devotee.

He has been hailed in the invocatory verse of one of the version of the

Ramayana as one who protected the lives of those dearer to Rama. He

crossed

the ocean by uttering Rama's name, saved Sita in the nick of time,

brought

the hill with herbs in it to restore Lakshmana back to life and

prevented

Bharata, who had decided to fall into the flames, from doing so. But he

never boasted of his bravery or intelligence. That is why he has been

hailed

as one who is rich in chosen vocabulary. Anjaneya is the hero of the

Sundara

Kanda (a chapter) of the Ramayana. But his introduction in the

Kishkinda

Kanda (another chapter of Ramayana) when he comes to find out at the

first

sight of Rama and Lakshmana as one whose heart melts with devotion,

clearly

explains the shape of things to come. His kind words, disguising

himself as

an ascetic, modest bearings and quick replies in chaste language

impress the

Lord greatly.

Rama calls Anjaneya as one who is rich in chosen vocabulary and these

words

have an inner meaning. From the moment Anjaneya considered Rama to be

incarnation of the Supreme Being, he showed unstinted devotion and

lived for

Him and Him alone. He had no other interest in the world except serving

Rama. He was the true possessor of the wealth of Rama Nama and hence

has

been hailed by many poets thus. Anjaneya also had three other

specialties.

Rama never took Viswarupa as Krishna did thrice. But Anjaneya took this

form

before crossing the ocean. While the Lord granted salvation to all

animate

things who lived in Ayodhya, Anjaneya was not willing to leave this

world

where Rama lived. Moreover he did not want to shed the body which was

embraced by Him. The Lord who could not go as messenger when he

incarnated

as Rama, had this desire fulfilled during Krishna Avatara when He,

following

the example of Anjaneya, went as Pandava's emissary to Duryodhana's

court.

(Thursday, Jan. 07, '99)

*************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The best and greatest type of devotion is one which is done

selflessly with immense love and service to the Lord. This devotee

sees his

God in every living beings but the best in human beings. This devotee

does

not see anything other than his God. Once Tulsidasji was asked to

compare

his God's face with other things in the world, he thought of the

powerful

sun, the cool moon, and all other magnificent things of the world. He

did

not find anything in this universe which would come close to his Lord's

face, therefore, finally he said there is none else like God's face or

God.

This is the power of the personified God and the personal intense

devotion.

Actually the devotee merge in to God and the devotee, the God and the

spirit

all becomes one. Gyaata, Gyaan, and Geya; Dhayaataa, Dhyaan, and Dheya

all

becomes ONE. That is the supreme form of devotion. There are many

other

types of devotion -the most commonly known as "Navadha Bhakti" (the

nine

types of devotion). "Starting with the Company of saints; Always

talking

about God; Service to lotus feet of Guru; Praise the Lord; Chanting

God's

Word or Naam with steadfast belief; Calmness and equanimity; Seeing God

everyone and considering saints more than God; Being content and never

seeing others faults; and Believing in me", so said Rama to Shabari, in

Tulsi's Ramayan.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

‘Guru' who stood for national unity

Tue, 5 Jan 1999 15:52:16 -0500

"The same God is in the temple as well as in the mosque. A Hindu

worships

Him while a Muslim prays to Him. Humans are all one though of diverse

forms.

Gods, demons and the divine minstrels, Hindus and Muslims are alike.

They

imbibe the influence of the environs they inhabit. They possess similar

eyes, ears and body which are made of earth, air, fire and water. They

adore

the holy Puranas and the Quran and all are of the same form and one in

their

making". These were the noble sentiments of a saint who had a large

heart

and broad ideas on religious beliefs. He respected all religions and

their

modes of worship. Accused of having made some derogatory remarks about

the

founder of Islam, he had cited the above- mentioned poem in praise of

God

who had forgiven people even for very severe and unworthy acts. This

saint

was Guru Gobind Singh, who during a short span of life, did wonders.

In the galaxy of spiritual heroes, this tenth Guru of the Sikhs

occupies a

distinguished place. The then social and political condition turned him

into

a soldier and also as a political figure.

The message of the founder of Sikhism (Guru Nanak) has been summed up

himself as "work, worship and share your food with others". On these

footprints walked the last of the 10 Gurus. The torch lighted by Guru

Nanak

was kept shining by all his successors through their hard labor and

toil

till the death of Guru Gobind Singh who declared before his departure

for

his heavenly abode that henceforth, {{"the holy Granth" (a scriptural

book

like Bible, Quran, and Gita) would be the spiritual Guru}} (1) of the

Sikhs

and that people would be guided by the teachings in the sacred book.

It is said, even while very young, the 'Guru' revealed the spark of

divinity

within him. He had learnt Gurumukhi and could recite hymns from the

"Granth

Sahib", acquired proficiency in Sanskrit and Persian, received training

horsemanship and in the use of weapons as his father knew it well that

time would come soon when Gobind would have to resort to the sword to

fight

tyranny. When he became the `Guru' after his father's martyrdom, he

awakened

his countrymen, transformed them into an aspiring race, molding the

Sikh

nation into a religious and military commonwealth so as to fight the

tyranny

of the then rulers. He stood for secularism, democratic principles and

man's

rights and non-interference in one's personal life. Throughout his

career

(of 42 years) he fought for human freedom, not for individual gains. He

aimed at bringing national unity and emotional integration of Indian

people.

(Wednesday Jan. 6, '99)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) "The holy Granth" has many great writings like there in Ramayan,

Gita,

Quran, Bible, Bodh Granth, etc. and we can obtain knowledge from these

scriptural writings to increase our inquisitiveness to know the Truth,

our

eagerness and yearning to know God. However, it appears logical that

only a

divine soul like Guru Nanak, Kabira, Guru Govind etc. can initiate and

instigate an individual soul for its realization of the ultimate

reality,

the Truth, the God, the Spirit. Hence is the need of a living

spiritual

master, which even Guru Govind also had while he was here on this

earth.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Surrender to God must be absolute

Mon, 4 Jan 1999 12:41:56 -0500

{{According to Hinduism the Supreme Being is Sriman Narayana and hence

the

Lord is always worshipped along with His consort, the Divine Mother. In

the

redemption of the souls from bondage, the role of Sri is very

significant

for She mediates on behalf of the soul. So, in the performance of

surrender

it is to the Divine Mother that one must submit first. She accompanies

the

Lord when He manifests in the world.}} (1)

Nandagopa, Yashoda, Balarama and Nappinai are addressed first before

approaching Krishna. Nappinai is considered as the incarnation of Nila

Devi.

It also points out the characteristics of a devotee. The inheritance of

the

spiritual legacy by a devotee is also only due to the devotee's

objective of

the performance to attain Lord Krishna.

In the Gita, Krishna tells Arjuna, ``Four types of devotees of noble

deeds

worship Me, the seeker after worldly possessions, the afflicted, the

seeker

of knowledge and the man of wisdom... Of these the best is the man of

wisdom, ever established in identity with Me and possessed of exclusive

devotion. For I am extremely dear to the wise man and he is extremely

dear

to Me.'' In Vedanta Desika it is interpreted by pointing out that to

{{the

true devotee (wise one)}} (2) the Lord is all - the water he drinks,

the

food he eats and the clothes he wears.

It is said that the Almighty responded only when a devotee surrendered

Him totally. The manner in which He saved Draupadi's modesty when she

was

disrobed in the assembly where her valiant husbands and elders like

Bhishma

stood helplessly is a case in point. The Lord interceded without

appearing

personally only after she abandoned all efforts and sought His

intercession.

So also, was the case of the elephant-king Gajendra. The elephant

struggled

with the crocodile for thousand(s) of years according to the Puranic

account

and it was only when it was in the throes of death did it cry out to

the

Lord when He rushed to its rescue.

There have been interesting insights given by the preceptors as to why

the

Lord did not appear in person when Draupadi surrendered to Him, whereas

did so in the case of the elephant. Had Krishna come there in person

would have killed all the Pandavas first, as the moment she surrendered

the Lord in distress all others including her husbands ceased to have

any

hold on her. (Monday, Jan. 4, '99)

**************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The "Maya" (the illusion) -the Lord's maid, and "Bhakti" (the

devotion)

-the Lord's consort or spouse both appear with the Lord. Both are

female in

nature, hence men (the "jeevs") are always attracted towards them.

However,

those who are attracted to devotion never keep any illusion with them

and

see God. Hence, if any one wants the God, try to get devotion first,

the

illusion will automatically be gone and the Lord God will follow suite,

because the God and His power "Shri", or "Shakti" are one inseparable.

know spirit or God, there is no parallel to devotion.

(2) Truly, a wise man is one who is devoted to God. Once we know our

own

spirit or soul, and the same spirit dwells everywhere else also, we can

know

any desired knowledge. Hence, such a person is a wise man. There is

nothing wiser than having Love, devotion and service to God. Would you

want

to know a few pieces of knowledge or rather will have the source of all

knowledge -the God?

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Scriptures lay stress on duty, discipline

Fri, 25 Dec 1998 21:54:29 -0500

The entire gamut of scriptural texts lay stress on two important

aspects of human conduct, viz. duty and discipline. What constitutes

duty and how to cultivate discipline have been clearly spelt out by

God Himself in the texts which have brought out His glory, in the form

of commands which ought to be obeyed and as guidelines, following

which men can brave all hazards.

"{{Perform your prescribed duties, which is better than not working}}

(1). But work should be done as a sacrifice to Lord Vishnu, and for

His satisfaction; otherwise it binds a person to this material world,"

says the Lord Himself. Any action carried out with the motive of gain

is indeed evil. "You have every right to perform the duties incumbent

on you by the socio-religious injunctions of the scriptures but you

have no right over the fruits thereof." The wise, engaged in

devotional service, take refuge in the Lord and free themselves from

the cycle of birth and death by renouncing the fruits of actions in

the material world. They attain the state beyond all miseries.

In the several instructions which God in His incarnation as Krishna

has given, through His Bhagavad Gita, there is mention of His

impartiality. As the Kurukshetra war was due to commence, the rival

groups approached Him for support and He offered His army to both. One

gladly chose to receive His armed might whereas the other was happy to

retain Him as the guide. Those who worship Him with an affectionate

heart will be endowed with unmixed love born of pure intelligence and

hence will be enabled to attain His blissful realm. The Lord also

makes it plain that He will accept any offering made with sincerity

and devotion. The Kuchela episode proves this.

It is said that God's wish is that a devotee should translate into

action what he decides to do. He did so in His own incarnation. He

wanted to establish moral order by eliminating the wicked forces and

He did not fail in this as seen by the blows He gave to Kansa,

Jarasanda and a host of others. He protected the virtuous and those

who took refuge in Him.

By nature's design the complete system of material activities

perplexes everyone. All Vedic literature advise us to approach a

bonafide spiritual master who can give the proper guidance for

executing the purpose of life. Krishna was such a master who had

removed several misunderstandings among ordinary people. If a devotee

adopts God's instructions given in the Gita, he can be freed of all

fears and sufferings in this life. (Saturday, Dec. 26, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) One must know what is one's duty. Our first and foremost duty is

towards ourselves. That is to know who are we, and what is our true

nature? Are we the dead body or immortal soul, the spirit? In order

to know this, we just can not remain doing nothing. Actually, it is

impossible to remain without doing something materially or physically.

Because, if we cease doing all action then even breathing is also a

physical action, we all know that we can not stop breathing. However,

we also know that as long as we keep clinging on to the material

physical thing we can not know the spirit because the spirit is not

material physical thing. Therefore, with the help of physical

material thing, such as our body or breathing, we accomplish the stage

of practically leaving physical body or breathing by being immersed

in another living physical body, thus we can come back to the material

physical breathing or body when He wishes. That will be the stage of

God realization, spiritual knowledge and fulfillment of our duty. All

this is done only for one purpose that having helped myself my entire

life becomes dedicated to the service and welfare of people. That is

the service before self, but if I do not help myself there is no way I

will be in position to help anybody else. This is doing an action but

not taking its result for us but giving its results to others so the

action done was also for others not for your own selfish gain.

"Parmaartha" delivers you and "Swaartha" binds you; the former afloat

you and the later sinks you down in this ocean of human attachments

"Bhav-saagar".

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

A gift given by God

Thu, 24 Dec 1998 20:13:54 -0500

{{A gift given by God}} (1)

The festival of Christmas is celebrated with much gaiety. People

exchange gifts and greetings. But no gift can be compared to the

God-given one to mankind on Christmas Day.

A story is told of a childless rich couple who lived in luxury. As

they grew old they realized the need for a child to inherit their

possessions. On a Christmas morning, they were going to church. As

they walked, the lady stumbled. She sat on the pavement for a while.

She heard the cry of a baby in the trash- bin. To her amazement she

found a beautiful boy in it, left to die. She nursed the baby and it

clung to her. She was disappointed at having to miss the Christmas

service in the church, but found joy, in the gift of a baby that God

had sent to her on that day. The couple christened the child

"Immanuel" which means "God with us".

The Bible speaks of the shepherds who heard the song of the angels

about the imminent birth of Christ in the stable of an inn in

Bethlehem. They ran to see this wonder of God becoming man and

realized that he was a gift to mankind - a gift offered by God to the

rich and the poor; to the wise kings and the illiterates; to the black

and the white.

The gift brought God's love to man. Sin separates man from God because

God is holy. Jesus reflected God's image of holiness and the image of

a sinful man. He paid a price to change this sinful image of man to

that of God's. The price He offered was His sinless blood through

which man gets God's image.

A famous singer in the West lived a licentious life, contracted

disease and lost his health and peace. He was driven to the extent of

cutting his own finger and offering his blood as a sacrifice to gain

peace. The pain only added to the fury. At that time, he heard of the

perfect sacrifice of Christ on the Cross and believed in the

happening. His hope earned him both the joy of Salvation and Peace of

God, free of any human sacrifice.

When the Divine Child grew, He said to the people: "I am the Good

Shepherd who gives His life for the sheep". He laid down His life on

the Cross for the redemption of mankind. Even the condemned criminal

who was crucified with Him on the Cross found Salvation when Christ

told him "Today, you shall be with Me in paradise".

The Christmas gift is for eternity. Through the ages, this has been

accepted, treasured and cherished. Why? In Him is our life because He

voluntarily came to the world; willingly offered Himself on the Cross;

and visibly rose up from the grave so as to leave for us a great hope

of our everlasting life in glory. (Friday, Dec. 25, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) A gift given by God at once upon a time, in real human form -a

savior, Jesus Christ, supposedly on this day. Now a gift -the same

human form, is given by God to each one of us. If we don't use it

like He demonstrated to the then world, we'll not be using this gift

wisely to satisfy its purpose. Being human and not knowing our own

spirit, the soul, the God would keep the goal unfulfilled, mission

unaccomplished; who knows when if we get this gift again here after

this life?

(2) In Him -the spirit or soul, is our life. Without It or Him we'll

be dead. He willingly offered Himself on the cross so that we can

learn the same willingness to separate the soul from the body, as is

done in deep trance or "Samadhi". He -the soul, visibly rose up from

the grave so that we can hope of our everlasting life. Our body is

the grave for our soul just like a grave is for the dead body. Our

body is the house of our God just like our abode is the house for our

body. We can free this soul by meditation, trance, or Samadhi while we

have this life, then only It will rise up from this grave. The

spirit, the God is then realized and we learn spirituality.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The means to secure divine grace

Wed, 23 Dec 1998 18:16:23 -0500

{{The means to secure divine grace}} (1)

"Grace" is a term that is extremely familiar in religious parlance. It

signifies that all human efforts should be approved by the divine and

have His stamp. Otherwise, plans formulated by a person with all care

may fail. How to secure this grace of the Almighty? The answer has

been provided in our scriptures. The simple recipe is that a person

should acquire spiritual knowledge so as to realize that God possesses

unlimited powers and uphold dharma even in the wake of obstacles.

There may be circumstances when a man may try to circumvent dharma but

when he stands firm and obeys the Divine directives, he will surely

emerge successful. God will be pleased with his conduct and extend His

"Grace" to him.

How a devotee, in-spite of personal sacrifice, had stuck to the law of

virtue and earned God's blessings is contained in a holy book. A

father of six girls had decided to give the eldest in marriage to a

boy related to him but changed his mind later and chose another man.

He did the same with other five daughters , leaving his relative

disappointed. However, the last daughter, seeing her father's failure

to keep his word and to compensate this lapse, decided to marry him.

The couple left the house and during the night stayed in an inn, in

separate chambers. But the boy died of snake bite. The girl, in tears,

appealed to God asking him how He could let down devotees who had

faith in the Divine Law. A saint happened to pass by, saw her plight

and sincerity, prayed to God and brought the boy back to life. Virtue

triumphed.

Scriptures prescribe four stages of progress in man's spiritual

pursuits. Such an aspirant's all-consuming passion should be to

realize God and the eternal truth. His efforts should be backed by

earnestness and transparent sincerity. The first requirement is to

lead a life governed by righteousness. Second, his conduct should be

exemplary. Third, he should equip himself with spiritual knowledge and

know that how his link with God can be established firmly. The final

stage is to seek the grace of the Divine to enjoy Bliss. His

fundamental duty is to keep the mind pure and lead a spotless life.

The knowledge that he gains will enable him to understand the

significance of the various religious procedures he adopts. For

instance, folding the palms as a mark of obeisance while standing

before God's representatives and elders indicates that the five senses

and the equal number of sensory organs are being kept under control.

(Thursday, Dec. 24,1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) There are many means to obtain God's grace but this is certain

that if a spiritual aspirant loves God immensely and always long for

his service, His grace is abound. Once a spiritual aspirant

establishes connections with the God, the spirit, the spiritual

knowledge comes by itself. He can not do any non-righteous conduct

which is non-exemplary. At times, if he show any anger, it is not

deep inside and he has no grudge or revenge. Thus he forgets and

forgives the person treating him bad. That is the saintly quality.

God's grace is showered only on devotees who are constantly yearning

for Him and who miss Him constantly.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

_________________________________________________________

Chanting mantras requires discipline

Tue, 22 Dec 1998 19:24:15 -0500

{{Chanting mantras requires discipline}} (1)

{{Mantras}} (2), which are invocations of the Supreme Being, have

always existed in a latent state as sound energies. They were revealed

to the ancient masters and have been codified in the scriptures and

handed down from spiritual master to disciple.

There are many rules and regulations and restrictions in regard to

their pronunciation adhering to which requires patience and

perseverance. They must be repeated in a proper way with great

attention to syllables and rhythm. Each mantra has a presiding deity

who must be invoked first.

Mantras must be constantly repeated over a long period of time for

them to bear fruit. The redeeming power of these Divine incantations

is so great that the Vedas have said that those who want to gain

realization of the Truth should repeat with absolute and steadfast

faith at least once the name of Lord Vishnu.

This Vedic insight has led to the proliferation of hymns in praise of

the Lord, both in Sanskrit and other languages. Some saints and

apostles have composed, based on the Vedas, a number of poems to bring

out their contents so as to be understood by all people. The 4,000

poems in praise of the Lord have been hailed as the analysis of the

entire scriptural texts.

It is said that it is possible to drive away the messengers of the God

of Death by reciting the holy names of the Supreme Being, thereby

pointing out that one's sins can be got rid of by realizing the

mistakes one had committed and seeking forgiveness. "Every sinner has

got a future and every saint has a past."

That the Lord feels sorry if people stray from the royal path made

available for them is evident from the manner in which Ramanuja's

cousin had chosen a different system of philosophy. (Wednesday, Dec.

23,1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Chanting mantra ensues a disciplined life. In the beginning, we

have an unsystematic, unorganized, undisciplined, unhappy life

wandering in all direction, but chanting mantra enhances concentration

and makes it a disciplined, happy life, which ultimately turns in to

Love, devotion and service to God and finally culminate in His vision

and union.

(2) There are many mantras, but none of them provide God realization,

until we receive a Word of God or Name, call it a mantra, which takes

us there, as said, "Mantra Tantra Sab Jhuth Hain, Mat Koee Bharmo

Sansaar; Saar Shabda Jaane Binaa, Koee Na Utaare Paar." Means, "All

the mantras and magic's are useless, O' World, don't you get confused;

without knowing the real Word of God, no body can help realize God."

That is the Guru Mantra, also known as "Aghora mantra" known only from

one who knows it and can convey it at the spiritual level.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Ways to receive Lord’s blessings

Mon, 21 Dec 1998 18:31:08 -0500'

{{Ways to receive Lord's blessings}} (1)

The permanent bond that exists between the Supreme Lord and the human

beings and the obstacles which prevent the latter during their stay in

the world from reaching the former have been brilliantly portrayed in

many verses in a simple hymn. The Vedas and other sources of knowledge

which describe the methods to realize God are not so easy to

understand. But to enable the message to reach everyone, this hymn is

easily digested. As a manifestation of the Divine Mother, the poem's

composer, re-enacts the scenes which are described in the Bhagavatham

wherein God as Lord Krishna demonstrates His compassion to souls

yearning to be with Him forever. Broadly, the theme relates to the vow

and connected austerities to approach God.

In a lighter vein, a devotee has pointed out how in His Bhagavad Gita,

Krishna has spoken more about His own virtues amounting to

self-praise, has described the limitations of others, has elaborated

the merits of the various paths leading to salvation and only in His

final words has spelt out the efficacy of "Surrender."

But some saints enunciate this doctrine with clarity. One of the

subjects dealt therein refers not only about the anxiety of an

aspirant to seek Divine grace but that of the Lord too who is equally

keen to take him into His fold and is deeply concerned about his

suffering. For instance, in the Ramayana, Bharatha's anguish at Rama's

banishment, his austere habits (though as the ruler of a vast kingdom,

he could enjoy all comforts) and how he used to have his bath at a

very early hour, moved Rama.

The saint explains the procedures to be adopted to earn the Lord's

blessings. In the opening verse the philosophy of Visishtadwaita is

spelt out. All the valuable guidelines found in the ``Sundara Kand''

of the Ramayana (dealing with the admirable qualities of the doctrine

messenger Anjaneya) are found in these verses. The poem also mentions

about the various stages of the Lord's descent while conferring His

blessings. Another description relates to the various sinews of war

the Lord retains with Him.

The principal role played by the Acharyas in guiding their disciples

on the path of virtue and the steps to be adopted to engage themselves

in the Lord's service while living in this world are glorified.

(Tuesday, December 22, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) There may be many ways to receive Lord's blessing but there is

only ONE way to receive Lord. That is by love and only LOVE. Then we

be devoted to serve Him and His people. Unfortunately, many people

do not long for the God, they want everything from God and hence His

blessing for all those. Until people are interested in material

comforts and things it is hard to visualize and experience

spirituality. These are just like day and night. Until day breaks the

night is not over, or until night's darkness is not gone the day light

does not dawn. However, there is no need to deliberately leave any

material comforts and materialism, the prime need is to pick up

spirituality. Once we are merged in spirituality there won't be any

time and attraction to fool with material comforts and materialism.

The rule is: "Every powerful, superior entity automatically replaces

the less powerful, inferior entity", may that be pleasure, knowledge,

life, or anything. Hence, when we pick up bliss, the lower happiness

is not missed (it is included) automatically; when we pick God all

His creation is automatically for you even if you do not want it.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

_________________________________________________________

Efficacy of the Divine name

Sun, 20 Dec 1998 16:27:15 -0500

Efficacy of the {{Divine name}} (1)

The analogy of gold and ornaments made of gold is handled by the

Acharyas to convey this idea. The Lord is like pure gold and His name

is like ornaments made from it. Even if one owns a lot of gold it can

be used only when made into ornaments. So also, is the case with the

Almighty. Though He is the only refuge, the Lord's transcendental

nature is such that it is beyond the reach of His devotees and hence

it is His name which come to their succor in worldly life. The manner

in which the Divine name came to Draupadi's rescue when she called out

His name Govinda is an oft-quoted instance to prove its efficacy.

(Monday, December 21, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear friend:

(1) The Lord's Name is also known as "Naam" in Hindi, "Tatva" in

Sanskrit, "Shabda" in Urdu, and "Word" in

English. It is said in the Bible (John 1.1), "IN the beginning was

the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." The

Bal-kand of Ramayan, actually the whole Ramayan, is full of the glory

of the "Naam". Tulsi said the God's Name is more or higher than the

God. It is the Name which has kept the formless God or "Nirgun" and

the God with form "Sagun" together. It is said, "Agun Sagun Dui

Brahma Saroopaa, Akath Agaadh Anaadi Anoopaa; More Mat Bad Naam Duhoo

Ten, Kiye Jehin Jug Nij Bas Nij Booten." Means, "The formless God and

God with the form are both same God like "Brahma" (or Truth),

speechless, depthless, timeless, and formless; In my opinion the Name

is higher than both these Gods (formless and with form), which has

kept the both in its control due to its own strength for ages." It is

further explained that it is the Name which kept these two together,

such like the body and soul in a live person. Tulsi further clarifies

that it is the Name which is like a translator or interpreter by which

these two can communicate, as said in Ramayan, "Agun Sagun Bich Naam

Susaakhee, Ubhay Prabodhak Chatur Dubhaashee." Means, "The Name is the

skilled witness between formless God and God with the form, it is like

a smart translator (or a person speaking two languages) who makes both

of them understand each other without any fear (or full of trust).

Thus the divine Name is sufficient to know the God with a form, such

as Guru (or Rama, Krishna, Kabira, Vashishtha, etc. when they were

there) and the formless God -the omnipresent. Omnipotent, omniscient

God, the spirit. The later can only be known through the former.

However, it is with great blessing and grace of God that we meet the

former. The main point in this is the person's interest and zeal to

know God or spirit and the main character is also he himself to

develop that interest.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Act with sense of responsibility

Sat, 19 Dec 1998 11:25:20 -0500

Parental role in molding the character and outlook of children has

become very important in this age especially as there are several

distracting influences outside the home over which {{one does not have

control}} (1). Whatever values a child learns from a horde of books

can all be negated by a single instance of parental misdemeanor, as

values cannot be taught and are imbibed spontaneously from elders.

Parents are the role models for their children, so also teachers and

elders. A parent or teacher can teach the child more by action than

words.

Every individual by virtue of his station in life has certain

responsibilities, more so, if he occupies an important position. {{So

one has to act with responsibility and with sense of duty, not for the

sake of oneself, but out of consideration for others}} (2). This point

is driven home tellingly by Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita, "For

whatever a great man does, that very thing other men also do; whatever

standard he sets up, the generality of men follow the same."

The Lord Himself sets an example for humanity in this matter. Since

{{He has nothing to achieve as He is the eternally fulfilled}} (3), if

He refrains from action one can imagine the chaos that would ensue.

Lord Krishna points out, "Should I not engage in action, scrupulously

at any time, great harm will come to the world, for, Arjuna, men

follow My way in all matters."

The duties which every individual has to discharge has been codified

in the scriptures to ensure harmony in the world. This necessitates

diverse occupations, but this does not mean that one is inferior or

superior to the other.

The classification of duties in the scriptures was based on the

natural propensity of an individual, as this brought out the best in

him. This also ensures that all societal needs are taken care of. The

ancient system of Varnashrama dharma is scientific and has a two fold

objective -smooth functioning of the society and harmonious

development of the individual.

The example of choice of profession helps to appreciate this better.

If an individual chooses an avocation suited to his talent he will

excel in it as he will be able to execute it effortlessly. He has a

natural advantage and derives satisfaction in his job and what he

earns is only incidental. Whereas, if he takes to a career because it

is lucrative, his life will be miserable and perhaps be a failure also

as he is never happy with his lot. When one takes up a career in which

one has aptitude one does not feel the burden of working hard. (

Saturday, December 19, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) One does not have any control over other's actions or over things

happening in the nature, but one does have some what, rather full,

control over his own self. We can change ourselves much easier than

we try to change the outside world influences. This is the beginning

of the spiritual studies, knowing our own selves than knowing outside

world.

(2) Actions done for the sake of oneself are called selfish actions,

where as actions done out of consideration for others benefits and

advantages are "Paramaartha" or the supreme acts.

(3) This is the state of Paramsant. A man who wants nothing is

indeed the richest man -a contented man. It is said, "Go Dhan Gaj

Dhan Baajee Dhan, Aur Ratan Dhan Khaan; Jab Aave Santosh Dhan, Sab

Dhan Dhuree Samaan." Means, "One can have all the wealth of cows,

elephants, cash or property and the mines of all precious stones; but

when the wealth of contentment is achieved all other wealth's are like

dirt (valueless). When a spiritually enlightened person is eternally

happy and fulfilled He has nothing more to know or gain or to achieve,

yet He keeps doing all righteous acts just to set examples for others

benefits and welfare. That is where the peace of "jeev" or life lies.

With best wishes

Sincerely, DS +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Uphold truth as the greatest penance

Fri, 18 Dec 1998 12:08:55 -0500

The spiritual firmament in this century has been witness to many

renaissance

movements which were necessitated by the changes taking place all over

the

world, important among them being the East-West encounter. This has not

only

provided a global platform for the major religions of the world but

also

enriched each tradition through dialogue. In the history of Hinduism

the

founding of the Ramakrishna Order was an important milestone.

Swami Vivekananda's name is remembered today for literally taking

Vedanta,

which was the preserve of the orthodoxy till then, to the West. The

disciples of Ramakrishna Paramahansa, who formed the nucleus of the

Ramakrishna Order, are acknowledged with gratitude for founding a

spiritual

institution which continues to provide spiritual succor to innumerable

devotees worldwide. Among the direct disciples of Ramakrishna who

progressed

spiritually under his guidance, Swami Shivananda is associated with the

founding of the Ashram at Kashi (Benaras).

Swami Shivananda was called as Mahapurush Maharaj by one and all due to

the

reason that Ramakrishna had addressed him thus, intuiting his spiritual

stature. Known as Taraknath Goshal before renouncing worldly life, even

his youth he was drawn to spiritual life, though he led the normal life

of a

householder till he met Ramakrishna in Dakshineshwar (Calcutta).

Tarak yearned to meet one who was adept in the practice of Samadhi

(yogic

trance) and hearing about Ramakrishna who was well-known for his mystic

experiences, he sought him and saw for himself at first hand the sage

deep meditation, who even without any introduction asked him to

accompany

him to the Kali temple to practice meditation. {{Though by temperament

Tarak

was drawn to meditation on the formless Supreme, the saint advised him

meditate on the Goddess, to drive home the truth that they are but two

aspects of the Divine}} (1).

For two years he continued to visit the saint often till he renounced

his

family and took to spiritual life totally. He saw in Ramakrishna his

mother

whom he had lost when he was very young who had influenced him

spiritually.

{{The Guru taught him to revere truth as the greatest penance in this

Kali

age and true to his vow he never deviated from truth}} (2).

{{His spiritual unfoldment was rapid after initiation by the saint and

continued in the service of his Guru till his end}} (3). After

Ramakrishna

passed away he and the other fellow-disciples were instrumental in

founding

the Ramakrishna Order. (Friday, December 18, 1998)

*********************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Almost all people always first believe in a formless God -may that

an idol of some deity or god or goddess, or nothing -like Allah, in

Islam,

or a cross, like in Christianity, etc., but as they get curious to know

the

reality and Truth they seek a Guru, like Tarak sought. The saint,

Ramakrishna, though himself must have meditated on his spiritual master

Guru, Totapuriji, but he did that sitting in front of an idol of Kali

in a

Kali temple. Simply because he used to live there and make his living

as a

priest of that temple. Therefore, most people got confused and believed

that

Ramakrishna meditated on Kali because that is what they saw. Simply

because

they can't see his mind. People have meditated on God sitting under a

Baniyan tree, near a brook, in their own houses, work places or even in

dance clubs. What one thinks, remembers, or meditates is only known to

the

person itself and none else. Every body else may derive inference,

imagine

and form their own opinion -not the Truth. He may have advised Tarak

meditate on Goddess, Kali, but it is highly doubtful.

(2) In modern times (Kali Yug), Truth is the highest penance, as said,

"Saanch Baraabar Tap Nahi, Jhoooth Baraabar Paap; Janke Hardaya Saanch

Hain,

Tanke Hardaya Aap." Means, "There is no penance equal to speaking

Truth,

there is no sin equal to telling lies; one who behold the Truth -God,

in his

heart or He has the God."

(3) Spiritual accomplishments of any sincere, eager, yearning seeker

begin

only after the initiation by a Guru and continues until the disciple

has had

complete God realization. Service to Guru is the supreme bliss a

disciple

can get and those are the fortunate ones who get His blessings, because

without His wish His service is not possible. In Ramayan, Kagbhusundi

said

to Garud, "Raam Kripaa Binu Sunu Khagaraaee, Jaani Na Jaai Raam

Prabhutaaee;" means, "

Without the blessing and grace of God one can not know God." His

blessing

only comes when we have an yearning for Him.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Transforming power of God's grace

Thu, 17 Dec 1998 07:26:08 -0500

The end of all human endeavors is the realization of man's spiritual

nature.

Adi Sankara (a saint) in one of his hymns has reiterated that even

though

one may be blessed with a good personality, birth in a noble family,

riches

and high status, and all that are necessary for leading a happy life in

the

world, {{if not blessed with the grace of the Guru (spiritual teacher)

human

birth will be in vain}} (1).

{{The spiritual tradition emphasizes that there is no difference

between God

and the Guru}} (2). When one takes to spiritual life and makes sincere

efforts, God responds and helps by appearing in the form of the Guru at

the

right time. The spiritual bond between the Guru and the disciple is not

temporal one and his grace helps the aspirant along till he realizes

God

-the end, i.e., liberation.

{{The scriptures make a distinction between a teacher, a preceptor

(Acharya)

and a Guru. While a teacher only tutors the student in the subject he

teaches, a preceptor molds the character of his disciple and instills

in him

the right values; whereas, a Guru undertakes the responsibility of his

disciple's spiritual progress. On the part of the disciple he should

repose

total faith in his Guru}} (3).

For Arjuna the Lord Himself assumed the role of the Guru and using him

as a

pretext, taught the sublime philosophical truth in the Bhagavad Gita to

the

world at large. He revealed His transcendental cosmic form to Arjuna

which

was an act of His grace. The incidents in the lives of the Pandavas

reveal

how Lord Krishna's grace protected them from great calamities and

enabled

them to face them with fortitude, which would not have been possible

otherwise.

The Lord entered their lives first during the unusual circumstances of

their

marriage to Draupadi, when Arjuna won her hand, but all the brothers

had to

marry her to fulfill Kunti's words. The Pandavas were living incognito

after

escaping the threat to their lives planned by Duryodana. After their

marriage their identity became known which shocked Duryodana who had

given

them up for dead.

Not wanting to antagonize them Dritarashtra gave them a barren

territory,

the Khandavaprastha, as their share of the kingdom. Bhima and Arjuna

were

naturally furious at the injustice meted to them but at Krishna's

insistence

accepted it. He enabled them to transform this wasteland into a

beautiful

city with the help of Indra and named it Indraprastha in his honor. His

protective grace extended right till the end of the Mahabharata war and

remained their philosopher and guide throughout their lives. (Thursday,

December 17, 1998)

*************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Truly, the human birth will not be in vain materially and

physically

but spiritually it will certainly a waste of whole human life if a

person

has not realized his own true nature or worth, i.e., spirit or soul.

And

that is not possible without the grace of Guru. It is said, "Nigura

Kare

Mukti Ki Asha, Mukti Paai Na Hoee Niraashaa." Means, "A person without

spiritual master expects to get salvation but he gets disappointment

not the

salvation." Without Guru's grace nobody, even Raam or Krishna, could

what they did. It is said, "Bhajan Bin Praani Re, Tune Neeraa Janam

Gavaayon." Means, "Without Bhajan, O' Living being, the birth is

wasted."

And we get to know "Bhajan" only from a Guru, none else, not even God

spirit.

(2) Is there a difference? Yes or No. Yes(?). No, because the

omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient, ever pervading formless God has

taken a

human form as Guru for his disciples. In Ramayan it is clearly said,

"Bhagat Hetu Bhagwaan Prabhu, Raam Dharau Tanu Bhoop" Means, "The God

has

taken human form as king Raam for the sake of His devotees." The

difference

being that of form and formless only. The visible and invisible. A

trivial

difference which persists only up to the point until the spiritual eye

does

not see the formless God -the spirit. NO, because, what is the

difference

between the spirit which is free and the spirit which is bound in a

shape

and form? Is there a difference between water inside a pot and the

water

outside the pot when the pot is submerged fully in to the waters of the

ocean? If No, then the God within the Guru and the God everywhere

else is

ONE and same. It is clearly stated in Ramayan, "Sagunhi Agunhi Nahi

Kachhu

Bhedaa, Gavaahin Muni Puraana Budha Bedaa; Aguna Aroopa Alakha Aja

Joee,

Bhagat Prem Bas Sagun So Hoee." Means, "There is no difference between

God

with form and formless God, says the sages, ancient history, wise men,

and

Vedas; One God (spirit) which is without qualities or characteristic

(gun),

without form and shape, unseen, and immortal, the same God has taken

form

bound by the love of His devotees." Tulsi said, "Hari Byaapaka

Sarvatra

Samaanaa, Prem Te Pragat Hohin Men Jaanaa." Means, "God is equally

present

everywhere, only by Love He appears; thus I know." It can't be stressed

enough that only by intense Love or longing or crave for God can a

person

see God, as said in Ramayan, "Agun Alep Amaan Ekras, Ramu Sagun Bhaye

Bhagat

Prem Bas." Means, "The property-less, boundless, infinite, equally

present

in all God, became a human (like Jesus Christ, Mohammed, Buddha,

Krishna,

Bahaullaha, etc.) due to the Love of His devotees." Christ said

(Bible,

John 14.6), "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto

the

Father, but by me." He did not say this when He was 5, 10, or 20 years

old.

He said this after a long pause returned from East after self

realization to

start his short lived ministry in His middle to late twenties. There

is no

dirth of evidences to the statement "The spiritual traditions

emphasizes

.....Guru." It is true by all means. The best evidence is seeing it

yourself, experiencing it, having Atma-gyan or self realization, having

Atma-bodh. No proof needed then, as said, "Pratyaksh Ko Pramaan Ki

Avashyakta Nahi." Means, "The one which you see (through your own eyes)

need

not require any proof."

(3) A "Sat-Guru" is one who takes His disciples to the "Truth" or God.

He makes sure that the disciple understands and experiences it first

hand in

his own spiritual heart where mind, wisdom, intellect and ego all merge

to and the devotee sees only Him. The "acharya" motivate and make

people

realize that they are not the (dead) bodies only, which they think, but

they

are the same "Narayan", just needed to have zeal, eagerness, and sheer

determination with strong will power to know themselves and Him. The

teacher

is merely some body who sells his skill for making his own livelihood

and in

this process pass on his knowledge and skill to his students.

Truly, every human is "Sat, Chit, Anand", the "Narayan", but due to

illusion and attachments with this dead world s/he continues to be the

prime

party to suffer, until s/he develops an interest and zeal to know the

God

and get in touch with a Guru. Then the spiritual life begins and the

countless mysteries of this world starts unfolding by itself. Without

true living spiritual master "Sat-Guru" who could have known the ONE

absolute Truth. Even the beginning of the universes and life is

revealed

only by The Person who knows the beginning and end of the time, because

time

itself is His creation.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Ego, an illusion of the mind

Wed, 16 Dec 1998 12:22:37 -0500

{{The Hindu spiritual tradition has many well-known time-tested

techniques

for realizing the true nature of the Self (Atman)}} (1). They have been

fostered in the traditional method of teaching from Guru to disciple as

the

practices are esoteric and unique in each spiritual lineage.

{{Among the various techniques, Kriya yoga has gained a lot of appeal

this century, thanks to the efforts of Paramahansa Yogananda who was

adept

in it and who has popularized it. He was a disciple of Lahiri Mahashay

who

mastered this esoteric science from a saint in the Himalayas. The most

enduring quality of Kriya yoga is that it can be practiced by one and

all.

The method has not been documented in book form because as in the case

all spiritual disciplines it is more a matter of experience.

Kriya yoga literally means integration of action. It emphasizes the

integration of the separative consciousness, which is due to the

unceasing

movement of thoughts, with the subtle unitive consciousness experienced

when

thoughts subside. It is a combination of Hatha, Raja and Laya yogas.

Kriya yoga was essentially a technique to subdue the working of the

mind. In

sense perception the sensory input is instantaneous, as for example,

the

image of a tree is instantaneously formed on the retina when one looks

at a

tree. But the knowledge that it is a tree arises due to mental

cognition.

The process of gaining knowledge necessitates the dichotomy of the

object

perceived and experienced. This duality is transcended in the

experience,

"This is a tree."

Thoughts by nature are discontinuous but the mind creates an illusion

continuity. This misconception is the root of ego, the "I". Thoughts

arise

because of sense perception, but ultimately like the Frankenstein's

monster,

they continue to exist on their own without any sense stimulus. The

mind

thus creates its neuroses and ideals.

"Is it possible to see the games that we play with our minds and

recognize

the network of thought which separates us from the other side of our

consciousness?" This recognition is the beginning of the spiritual

quest.

The constant churning of thoughts has to be stopped.

The first step in the process is meditation. Kriya yoga is a process of

healing the dichotomy in the human personality and developing

tranquillity

of mind, which is its natural state}} (2). This unitive state can be

experienced through practice of this yoga and even an occasional

glimpse is

sufficient to reorient one's life. There is no duality in the unitive

state

of mind; but at the empirical level it will continue to exist.

(Wednesday,

December 16, 1998)

******************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The spirit is same in all, every body. It is neither Hindu nor

Christian or Moslem. Yes, this is a fact that India is famous for her

spiritual accomplishments, having one of the ancient civilization and

recorded history. Although there are many techniques but as many

saints and

sages have indicated -One with Love and devotion, is the easiest and

best.

It can be practiced by any one and everyone interested in it.

Therefore, it

is also known as "Sahaj Yoga." This can only be advised or tought by a

bonafide, living spiritual master -Guru, to deserving disciples.

(2) Kriya Yoga like Hatha Yoga, Laya Yoga, Raj Yoga, Karma Yoga,

Saankhya

Yoga, Gyan Yoga, Sanyaas Yoga, etc. can increase spiritual awakening in

individual and sometimes can liberate him from the cycle of birth and

death,

but it appears that to access God's interior circle there is no

parallel to

the Bhakti Yoga -the Yoga of Love, devotion and service to God. There

remains no ego in Love and service, and humility with total

unconditional

surrender ensues.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Man must discharge his duties

Tue, 15 Dec 1998 12:40:33 -0500

{{Man must discharge his duties}} (1)

The importance of engaging in action in conformity with one's walk of

life

has been underscored in the scriptures because worldly life involves

action.

Even for those who take to spiritual life, the path of action (Karma

yoga)

is considered the first step. While a person who adopts this path for

spiritual progress, does so for attaining purity of mind, a realized

person

engages in action for the sake of others in society and not for

personal

gain.

In the Bhagavad Gita, Arjuna raises the doubt as to why Lord Krishna

should

urge him on the path of action when He Himself had indicated that the

path

of knowledge was superior to it. Arjuna's duty (Svadharma) was

unpleasant;

being a warrior he had the unpleasant task of engaging in war and

bloodshed

for the sake of establishing righteousness.

The Lord had dilated on the subject of Self-knowledge to dispel his

ignorance, so that he would understand where his duty lay, but Arjuna

was

looking for an escape route; so he felt that the path of knowledge

being

superior to that of action he could embark on it which would enable him

get away from the battlefield.

In the Bhagavad Gita, the Lord clarified that even if Arjuna was a man

wisdom (Jnani) he would have to discharge his duty. Accepting the fact

that

a man of wisdom need not engage in action since he has nothing further

gain, he should do so for the sake of others in society, as they are

not as

spiritually evolved as he is. He becomes a role model for emulation by

others and hence he has a social responsibility.

The necessity for everyone to lead a righteous life (Dharma) can also

appreciated from the fact that it promotes social order. One can

imagine the

chaos in society if all live according to their whims and fancies. The

scriptural injunctions are meant only for ensuring harmony in the

world. In

the case of the individual who leads a Dharmic life, it helps him to

progress spiritually. So it serves a twofold purpose.

There are three sources of guidance for one who wants to follow Dharma.

The

Vedas are the ultimate authority and hence they are the primary source

and

the Itihasas, Puranas and the Smrti texts written by sages are the

secondary

scriptural source. {{The lifestyle of the cultured, responsible elders

society, though classed as the third source of guidance, is a more

powerful

influence than the other two because all do not take recourse to

scriptural

learning. Besides, in day-to-day life it is natural to pick up values

from

those who are role models like parents and teachers}} (2). (Tuesday,

Dec.

15, '98)

*************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Man must discharge his duties. True, but what is man's duty?

Man,

woman, and children, they all have life in common, known as "Jeev" -a

kind

of spirit. And the duty of the Jeev is only one; how to meet, merge,

unite

with its source -the God, after knowing its real entity. This can only

known when the curtains of illusion and attachments laid over it are

unveiled or removed. This can be easily done by being in the company

saints and sages of the Truth. Just like it is easier to learn a

language

by being in the country where that language is spoken, similarly one

can

know this duty much easier by being in an environment where everyone is

performing their duty to realize God.

(2) Very rarely and only a few people read Vedas, Purans, Smratis, and

Shrutis but many people come in contact with other people around them.

we have not served our parents, how can our children learn to serve us.

Every theory is backed by practice and every theory is proved and

strengthened by practical verification and demonstration of facts. If

we do

not speak truth and tell our children or friend to speak truth, it will

not

have any effect on them. Some bold and frank might even tell us point

blank, "It is easy than done." So we should not say until we

experienced it

practically and follow it ourselves. Actually, a professor of say

toxicology or anatomy knows a lot then only he tells a little to his

students or his audience. No body wants to show their "Trump Card" at

the

first round. The golden rule, "Practice before you preach" applies so

very

much to spirituality that Shiva tells to Paravati, "Uma Kahun Me

Anubhava

Apna, Sat Hari Bhajan Jagat Sab Sapanaa." Means, "Shiva is telling his

own

experience (not somebody else's read knowledge) that the Truth is

God's

Word and rest world is like a dream." In spirituality, it is our own

experience which reveals God in us instead of books, Vedas, Purans, and

other hundreds of scriptures. We can read many different books on

swimming

or cooking but until we learn swimming or cooking we can not swim or

cook.

Spirit is beyond all description of writing, reading or telling about

it, as

said, "Alakh, Akah, Akath, Anaami." That is God -one who walks without

legs, one who talks without words, one who sees without eyes, hears

without

ears. How can that be put in words? How did that infinite became

finite in

us? A "jigyasu" of spirituality must find it all first hand by his

own

experience, else the time will keep on ticking. We have to go beyond

death

to get "Amrat" or to be "Amar", beyond mortal to be "Im-mortal", it is

possible not im-possible. The history stands witness for motivation

and

encouragement to many of us. When it has happened to many it can

happen to

any. Let that any be us. Let us know Him -the Paramatma, the god of

Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva, the God of all gods.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Hard work, must to get Divine grace

Mon, 14 Dec 1998 12:22:20 -0500

A broad classification of human beings' conduct can be made, in

accordance

with the contents of the scriptural literature. {{Some do not possess

knowledge of the value of the gift of human life and waste it going

about

aimlessly. They are after worldly pursuits and one has to feel sorry

for

such men who are ignorant of their potential. In the second category

are

those who by the grace of the Divine, have gained knowledge but do not

use

it for proper purpose and they too fritter away their spiritual energy.

They

have the opportunity to get themselves released from worldly bondage

but

they are involved in purposeless activities and thus get lost}} (1).

What the scriptures emphasize is the importance of service to God. This

can

be done in some form like help to others, worship, meditation and

reciting

God's names. That is men's duty but what is more significant is that

such a

service should be done in time. For instance {{charity at the proper

time

alone will be meaningful}} (2). There is, however, one unfailing source

from

whom mankind can expect service being done at the most opportune time.

That

is God. Religious literature's point out that God's duty towards His

devotees combines both. Lord extends His service to those who seek His

guidance and also at the needed hour. Saints have used a very fine

expression in their works to refer to Lord's "service" to devotees in

response to their pleas in time, when they faced distress. On devotees'

part, they must adopt the motto "work is worship".

{{The typical example of the two types of men referred to above was

explained by the following example. The fish exists in water consuming

dirty

waste and putrid stuff. It can take valuable articles made available by

nature but fails to do so. For the other type, a bird answers the

description as it can easily identify what is good and what is to be

rejected but yet it often goes only after waste material and at times

tries

to catch the fish which, as pointed out, is full of filth}} (1).

The stress in our holy texts is that we must work hard, use our

knowledge to

obtain salvation and also serve, as part of our spiritual obligations,

humanity and that too in time. God is kind to attend to the needs of

His

devotees when they require.

Devotees have to pray to God not only to protect but also help them at

the

needed hour. God will surely respond. Devotees should also put in hard

work

to obtain divine grace.(Monday 12/14/98)

************************************************* COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Most of us -humans, do not know what we have. Because, we are

used to

see outwardly only and can not, rather do not, see at us ourselves with

our

own eyes or senses (we hear others but not our own inner voice, etc.)

most all most always remain outbound. Very rarely we can see or hear

inwardly things. We always look at others and want that for us. We

rarely

look at our own bare need and feel happy that it is satisfied. Since

we do

not stop or cease looking outwardly we are tempted to shift our demand

from

need to want, and we never can satisfy those wants until death.

Actually,

those are other's -some body else's originated wants, not our (wants).

And

those are countless because others are countless -5 billion people plus

animals and other plant species. Our time of 100 years (human life

span)

passes soon and we get in to trouble only to repent. Sita wanted

golden

dear, everybody knew that golden dear do not exist, yet she wanted it.

Wants are never satisfied, they result in miseries. Hence, wise man's

want,

rather need, is elimination of desires and wants.

(2) Just like there is a proper time for charity, more important the

charity

must be given only to a proper person who is capable of accepting it to

consummate it in His fire of wisdom, penance and asceticism. Thereby

yields no result. Else the result of charity will be abundance of

piousness

assuring the donor a place in an environment with flourishing economy

and

prosperity, such as in a noble or princely family or in an affluent

country,

whether in this or subsequent life. Kabir said, "Daan Diye Dhan Na

Ghate,

Nadi Na Ghate Neer; Apni Aankho Dekh Lo, Kah Gaye Daas Kabira." Means,

"Charity does not diminish the wealth, the river does not lack water;

look

it your self, experience it, such says the servant (of God) Kabir."

This

will then make one richer and richer with the possibilities of

enhancing his

vices such as greed, lust, anger, pride, etc. and diminishing virtues

charity, generosity, kindness, mercifulness, Truth loving, love,

service,

devotion to God, etc. The result is an assured hell in future, keeping

the

man in cycle, never to come out of it, until his acts becomes

resultless.

That is why, in Gita, Krishna said to Arjuna, "Do your duty devotedly

and

offer all your deeds -good and bad, to me. Your all deeds will burn

away in

my fire of wisdom and I will make you free of the cycle of birth and

death."

O' Arjuna, please seek a Krishna..

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++==

Need to observe moral injunctions

Sat, 12 Dec 1998 13:36:20 -0500

{{The attitude of men in general can be classified into four broad

categories. There are the great who are rare to find as they sacrifice

their own interests to further others' needs. Under the second group

fall those who live their lives enjoying the fruits of their

activities and help others too without their interests being affected.

The third set of men destroy others and thrive on them. The fourth go

about indulging in activities destructive of their and others'

interests}} (1). "It is enough if we are able to live up to the ideal

of the second group and aspire for the first," says an

emperor-turned-poet in one of his classics in which he has bundled

innumerable morals for men to avoid pitfalls and lead a virtuous life.

This great reformer pleads for a normal existence discharging one's

obligations, living in amity with others without tension and strife.

One should be courteous to one's relatives, kind to strangers, careful

and cautious towards the wicked, affable to the virtuous, polite

towards those in power, humble before the learned, brave in dealing

with opponents and patient with others. These attributes, he adds,

will promote stability in the affairs of men.

These sentiments have been expressed by Bhartruhari (tradition places

him in the first half of the century before Christ) in one of his

three works, each containing 100 verses. They bring out the essence of

Hindu wisdom, gleaned from ancient lore and the schools of Indian

philosophy. One of the works deals with justice and morals, the second

with renunciation and detachment while the third is concerned with

love. In the "Neeti Satakam", he asks men not to lose self-respect in

the midst of even overwhelming trials. Another virtue to which he

refers to is the development of perseverance. The third is about

benevolence or service to our fellow men followed by moral courage.

Life, according to him, should be purposeful and meaningful.

Bhartruhari sees the sources of all our trouble in our lack of faith

in God. {{He says that in the enjoyment of desires, these (desires)

are not exhausted but we are weakened}} (2). "We will grow old but

aspire to remain young." He describes a perfect man as one who shows

fortitude in adversity, forgiveness in prosperity and reveals his

virtue amidst great troubles as the sandalwood, even cut into pieces,

exudes fragrance. In one verse, the poet points out that refraining

from destroying another life, self-restraint as regards appropriating

the wealth of others, truthful speech, charity at the right time and

according to means, impeding the stream of greed, humility towards

elders, compassion to all creatures - these pave the way for

happiness, commonly referred to in all scriptures. (Saturday, December

12,1998)

******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Similarly there are four types of people -one, the great wise

man, a few, who do not do mistake, second group of people are those

above average people who learn from them and the following other two

group people's mistakes. These people make a few mistakes and they

observe rest people and are wise enough in learning from other's

mistakes. The third group of people are below average who makes

mistakes and learn from their own mistakes and do not repeat the same

mistake again. While the last group of people are those who makes

mistakes lots of mistakes , so not learn from them and repeat them

often.

(2) Desires are never fulfilled. Before one desire is satisfied

another is born. Also the end result of fulfillment of desires is to

weaken our selves. Desires are born from senses (Indriyaas -5 senses

of knowledge, viz. sound, touch, sight, taste and smell, and other 5

organs or senses of actions) and Indriyaas are never satisfied. In

Ramayan, it is said, "Ehi Tan Kar Phal Vishaya Na Bhaaee, Svagau

Svalpa Anta Dukhadaaee; Nar Tan Paai Vishaya Man Dehin, Palati Sushaa

Te Sath Vish Lehee." Means, "After getting this body don't go in

sense gratification, there is great momentary (pleasure) but the end

is horrible; (people) getting human body and keeping (their) mind on

sense gratification, such idiots only exchange honey for poison."

People who are not contended, who do not control their desires or

sense gratification do not accelerate their spiritual progress.

Ramayan further states, "Indree Dwaar Jharokhaa Naanaa, Tahan Tahan

Sur Bethe Kari Thaanaa; .....; Indrinha Suranhan Gyaan Sohaaee,

Vishaya

Bhoga Par Preeti Sadaaee." Means, "There are many senses, and each

sense has a presiding deity; senses and deities never like wisdom

because they always love to dwell on sense gratification." LOVE is

ONE. How can we love God if we love to fulfill our desires "Vishaya

-Bhog" -may it be eating or seeing or one of the many other.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Realized souls see God everywhere

Fri, 11 Dec 1998 12:11:03 -0500

As the chariot does not worry or concern itself as to whether it

travels in

the right direction, let us leave the decision making to God whether

what we

do is of great or little importance. The only way to overcome egoism is

constantly practice and make a habit of thinking that God alone is the

Doer.

So, when the time comes to leave, our mind would already have been

centered

on God and realized Him. We should not be deceived by the parts we play

and

the qualities associated with them in our present life, no more than an

actor who is not fooled into the unreality of the play. Lust, anger and

greed are the soul's highway robbers. Where such qualities prosper,

hell

indeed is nearer.

These are some of the lovely imageries of a great saint of Maharashtra

who

has left a rich legacy in the form of a brilliant commentary on the

Bhagavad

Gita. Its unsurpassable and innumerable illustrations and 20,000

couplets

show that the young spiritual leader, Jnaneshwar, was but a

manifestation of

the Supreme Being. At the Pandaripur temple, he sang, "One who stands

before Lord Panduranga even for a moment, with exclusive devotion,

shall

have all four types of salvation (entering God's abode, remaining near

God,

attaining His likeness and total merger in Him). Walk in the path of

righteousness and receive instructions from saints and scriptures."

Jnaneshwar compares a man with an impure mind even if he performs good

actions, to a corpse adorned with ornaments.

{{The young saint, whose powers were challenged by some priests}} (1),

humbled them by quoting from the Gita that {{a realized person sees the

Lord

present in the heart of a scholar, a cow, an elephant, a dog, the so-

called

untouchables, and every where}} (2). Placing his palm over the head of

{{a

buffalo, he prayed that the animal should chant Vedic Mantras which it

did}}

(3). But Jnaneshwar was quite aware that {{the realization of God and

not

the attainment of special powers (to perform miracles) is the purpose

of all

spiritual disciplines}} (4).

According to him, though sects develop peculiar rites and customs, as a

whole they belong to the same uniform ocean of knowledge where man

seeks his

redemption from a seemingly perpetual gyration of births and deaths,

all

triggered by his unquenchable thirst for the three evils. Just as the

sky is

mirrored in an ocean and is not forbidden from being reflected in a

pond,

God's grace appears in all. "Even the worst sinner can reform by

thinking of

God."

Devotees believe that the saint lives forever in the cave into which he

entered, reciting the ninth chapter of the Gita with his spiritual body

bless people. (Friday December 11,1998)

**************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Albert Einstein said, "Great spirits have always encountered

violent

opposition from mediocre minds." Priests and Brahmins in India has

always

challenged and opposed many great saints, just because saints tell the

ONE

Truth and priests and Brahmins engulfed in rituals, customs, and

countless

scriptures befool people for their own personal gain and business. The

life

history of many saints like Kabira, Prahlaad, Dhruva, etc. vouches for

this.

(2) The Lord is every where. Where He is not? He is in the particle

dust, a molecule of air, a drop of water, in plants, animals, and

humans, in

fact, every where. Tulsi said, in Ramayan, "...., Siyaa Raam May Sab

Jag

Jaanaa." Means, "Know the whole world is like Lord God and His abode."

(3) A buffalo, or for that matter any living object, has a soul or

spirit;

why would she not chant Vedic mantras or anything what a realized

person

wishes. The sound we speak comes from God through a series of

different

named sound, known as "Paraa", "Pashchayanti", "Madhyamaa" and

Baikhari".

The last one is the one we hear. A realized soul initiates and knows

"Paraa", thus communicates with other souls at that level, not at the

"Baikhari" level (which is heard).

(4) Aspirants of spiritual knowledge and servants of God never ever use

spiritual accomplishments for cheap miracles and magic's. They are not

magicians showing miraculous show for money. Hence, get with the God's

Word, and meditate on Him with Love and devotion, all eight "siddhees"

follow suit un-sought..

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Craving for worldly objects is a sin -Questions

Thu, 10 Dec 1998 10:55:53 -0500

Good points. Please see the text {{--}} for response.

Thursday, December 10, 1998 10:13 AM

Subject: RE: Craving for worldly objects is a sin -Questions

How can you tell if one is close to God ? ( in reference to your 1st

answer)

Do you mean to say that thousands of businessman in India who prey on

poor

people to get rich (like artificially inflated onion price and other

commodities) has committed sin in God's eye ? {{YES.}} If they do then why

they

do not suffer for their actions while they are alive ? {{They do suffer,

some

have sickness, some do not have children and long for them, some has

marital

problems, others are tied up in court battles, etc.}} Let us not talk

about

next birth or reincarnation where he will be born as a worm or snake or

some

bad creature to pay his due of present deeds. Nobody can prove that he

will

suffer in his next birth ? Can you ? Can we say for sure "No body" ?

{{The

world has 5 billion people, we can only say I can not prove it. But if

you

determined you can. There is nothing which you can not prove to

yourself by

experiencing the reality within you.}}

----------

Craving for worldly objects is a sin

Thu, 10 Dec 1998 09:12:46 -0500

A philosopher-poet who was deeply religious and who was keen on getting

rid

of his worldly bondage has brilliantly portrayed the evils to which a

man

will succumb, comparing them to a tree. According to him, anger is its

fruits, pride its flowers, deceit its branches and leaves while the

root is

greed. The entire tree symbolizes "vice" with greed making the person

develop deep attachment to worldly objects.

{{How to escape the influence of the evil of greed which results in

deep

attachment, the poet asks and replies that even as diamond alone can

cut

another diamond and a thorn alone will have to be used to remove

another

thorn, the tendency to be greedy can be curbed by another facet of

greed.

Instead of showing attachment towards worldly objects, one's attention

should be directed towards the Divinity. We can be "avaricious" in

seeking

the grace of God and in requesting Him to enable us to lead a life of

peace

and purity. We can be "greedy" to acquire spiritual knowledge and to

adopt

steps to obtain salvation. "Let me possess a deep desire to develop

forgiveness, politeness, straightforwardness and peacefulness, making

any

soul harbor only joy and preventing any other corrupting thoughts." }}

(1)

When desires are checked, there will be no need to get attached to

worldly

objects. There will be no scope to become jealous about others in

possession

of more valuable articles than what we have. The poet prays that his

"greed"

should indeed result in his eyes enjoying God's different forms, his

ears

listening to God's praise, his tongue glorifying the Lord and the nose

smelling the fragrance of flowers which adorn Him. "I do not want

wealth,

power or position. All I ask you is to make me destroy the four words -

me,

mine, good and bad. If this is not possible, make me at least refrain

from

uttering these words. I realize that nothing will accompany me when I

leave

this world, not the riches, not my status, not my kith and kin. Only my

soul

will be there".

Even the very thought of a desire to possess an object that is with

others

is a sin, saint says. To an ordinary person, the craving to acquire

some

article which is not with him but which is in the hands of another

person

and which he is not able to obtain, may not appear wrong but it is the

origin of all succeeding misdeeds. When his desires remain unfulfilled,

will get frustrated and may adopt any method to secure it. Such an act

like a seed which later grows into a mighty tree. The tree grows but

one

does not see it in the seed. One who is free from greed will manage his

wealth and use it for beneficent purposes. (Thursday Dec. 10, '98)

**************************************************COMMENTAY

Dear Friend:

(1) If we try to leave greed for worldly things we will pick it up more

and

more or stronger and stronger, but if we try to pick up God's Word,

spiritual reading and knowledge, did we not leave the greed for at

least

that much time? When we leave home every morning we have a goal to

reach

office, hence the home is left without even trying to leave it. When

take a step forward the previous foot is raised automatically, we don't

have

to try to lift it deliberately, else we won't even have a thought of

taking

the next step and we'll be lost. Come to my house and your house is

left

behind. You did not leave your house, you still know it where it is

and you

can go there when ever you wish. We do not leave greed for worldly

things we

have to change its direction, we should be greedy to know God.

A newly born child cries of hunger and thinks that he'll starve to

death,

because he does not know that his mother is also feeling eager to feed

him

else she will also be uncomfortable (in not feeding him). His food is

already there so close to him but he does not know. Similarly,

everyone of

us is free but due to ignorance we think we are bound by worldly

things. In

Ramayan, it is said, "......, Bandhyo Keer Markat Ki Naai." Means,

".....,

tied like a parrot and his trap." I will explain it in little more

detail,

when they catch parrots, they make a trap by simply tying loosely

enough a

small piece of stick (with a corn on the cob) to a post set in a field

such

that the stick only tilt down when the parrot sits on it. Parrot first

come

there out of greed to eat corn (instead of eating fresh fruits, her

usual

food) then sits on it. The stick tilts down, the parrot hangs himself

upside down and thinks that she will fall down and die, so she

tightens her

grip until the parrot keeper catches her. The parrot did have her

wings in

tact and in reality is free to fly but out of ignorance and fear of

death

she clings on to the trap until caught. Same thing happens to "jeev"

humans, they hang themselves upside down for over 9 months, then they

are

caught, due to their own ignorance and fear of death, in the greed for

worldly things one after other until the death catches them and they go

from

one trap to another, from one life to another. We are free, but if we

think

we are not then we are not free, there is no help except that some of

our

brother tells us, "look , you are also free like me. Why are you

suffering

all your life?" Can we ever be free of indebtedness to such a merciful

Lord

who guides us to God?

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

One of my friend asked me two questions:

(1) If some body is sick and suffering, will "upvas" or fasting and

prayers done by his relatives and dear ones help alleviate the sickness

and

suffering? YES or NO.

(2) Some body has a business, buying goods and marking the price up for

100

or 200% profit and selling it. Is it considered a cheating in God's

eyes?

YES, definitely.

In short, the answers/opinion is written above beside questions. The

following explanation is offered:

(1) First of all, just going hungry without food is not "upvas". Also

some people don't eat certain usual food, instead they eat fruits,

"mava

barafi" and "rabadi" or drink fruit juices and milk, etc., that is not

the

"upvas" either. "Upvas" is a disciplined eating, none or one time a

day,

while keeping their thoughts and deeds pious and clean, not hurting or

killing anybody by deeds or even thoughts, and remembering and praying

God,

during the entire period of "upvas", for a specific purpose for which

the

"upvas" is kept (in this case for the sick person's good health).

"Upvas" increases one's own will power which is very close to

"Atma-bal" or

power of the self or spirit. If people, who have strong will power

doing

such "upvas", are close to God (Up+Vas), God hears their prayer and the sick

person

gets better health. This all happens due to the person who is near God

and

who is determined to use his or her spiritual power or will power to

obtain

relief in the sick person's health.

But as people gets closer to God, they do not interfere with God's will

(who

is impartial and let law of Karma's prevail) and of course if asked by

God

(your own inner voice, different from thoughts) of your opinion or wish

about the suffering person and if you do not leave it back on God, you

will

always tell all sick people should be blessed with good health and God

blesses him good health. So, yes, it helps to pray and fast.

If the prayers and fasting are for selfish interest and attachment with

the

sick person and if the person who fasts himself or herself is not

disciplined, clean, honest, and close to God, the prayers and fasting

do no

good. So, no, it does not help.

(2) Yes, it is cheating not to all people but to a few. But it is

definitely illegal, immoral, and unethical to do so. It is actually a

greed

-the seed or root of all evils, which kills the person himself. There

are

many stories and narratives documenting the ill effects of greed.

Greed is

a vice, not a virtue. Today's Food for thoughts "Craving for worldly

objects

is a sin" is a classic example.

Fixing a very high price to keep a big profit when the merchant is

already

very affluent is cheating those people who need that item and do not

have

enough resources to buy it. It is not cheating those people who are

already

much affluent and can afford to pay for it, even if it was marked up

300 or

400 %.

Fixing high price for goods when there is a need for it, when the goods

are

essential commodities -such as water, natural gas, electricity, woolen

clothes in winter and fans in summer, bread, onions, etc., and are

badly

needed is illegal specially when it is done in collaboration with

associations, groups, unions, and other merchants.

It is immoral because keeping high profit when you are already affluent

and

depriving others who need it is against good conscious. You make

somebody

suffer in cold, you don't sell him the blanket at a price where he or

she

can afford it without you losing any money, you have no mercy, pity,

kindness, and generosity. Then you have no conscious, as such it is

against

moral principles. It is not virtuous.

It is unethical because in human values and ethics when one human's

actions

afflict injury or pain to other human for unnecessary, unneeded gain to

the

former is considered immoral, bad and unwanted. There is a good

principle

of economics, says, "Needs can be fulfilled, wants can never be." A

bad

business policy is that if the market can sustain higher price, if

people

can afford to pay it is okay to charge higher profit.

But, for all God fearing decent people, in God's eyes, unnecessary

hoarding

of commodity and high price fixing when you don't need that high profit

considered cheating to your own self, rather robbing your own self,

killing

your own conscious and becoming a living dead person. Actually God has

blindfolded eyes. He is impartial, judge (like a blindfolded statue of

judgment with a balance), just watching our actions doing its results

but

Himself doing nothing. He only listens to His devotees and out of His

own

sweet will acts and intervenes when He wishes. It is said, "Saain

Utnaa

Dijiye, Jaame Kutumba Samaay; Naa Me Bhukhaa Rahu, Naa Sadhu Bhukhaa

Jaay."

Means, "Lord, give me just enough that my family (people who are in my

sight

when I eat) can just live-in it, more specifically neither I remain

hungry

nor any guest goes unattended and hungry.

It is well known that any thing we eat more than we need is a cause of

indigestion. Excess of wealth is certainly a cause for bondage, at one

the other point we had to relinquish all interest in wealth, material,

physical things, relations, etc. in order to do good to your own self.

Tulsi left his wife and family, Surdasji did the same, Buddha left the

palace and kingdom, Dhruva did, Prahlaad did, Gandhi did, and all those

saints who achieved the state of "Nirvan" or "Moksha" did. Thus

charging

more than reasonable is not good for the spiritual health of the

merchant,

just as putting too much salt in the bread is not good for your taste

and

physical health.

So we must make our own decision in this regards wisely. If any one

has

other thoughts and want to supplement on this topic please do so. Thank

you

in anticipation.

***************************************************

Religion helps one lead peaceful life

Wed, 9 Dec 1998 08:25:46 -0500

Saints and sages (who were the exponents of Hinduism) had never claimed

anything as their own achievement. Ever established in the supreme

state of

absolute fullness, they found it difficult to express their experience

the Supreme Truth in words. Yet out of compassion for those who are in

search of God and are groping in darkness, they have prayed to God that

their efforts to speak and put down in writing and convey the Divine

message

through words, they should not distort Truth, "Give us the ability to

express our experiences properly". Their writings are sources of power

and

inspiration for the entire mankind.

{{These men of wisdom did not form a separate religion}} (1). They gave

importance to human values and spiritual Truths. Their prayers were

astonishing because their only request was "May the whole world live

happiness; may contentment, peace, perfection and auspiciousness

prevail in

all." Religion gives what the world can never provide. What a man

craves is

peace within. Peace is not something which is gained when all desires

are

fulfilled. As long as the mind exists, desires will surface and

problems

will continue. There is peace when all thoughts subside. To lead man to

the

realization of his true nature and to transform him is the goal of the

"Eternal Religion." The latter does not ask them to believe in a God

seated on a golden throne, high above the clouds. He is not a limited

being.

He is all- pervasive. To believe in His powers and the practice of

religious

principles will fill human life with vitality. Religion and worship of

God

eliminate narrow mindedness. Unfortunately, the same religion has

become the

breeding ground for negative qualities. Instead of moving towards God,

owing

to the unhealthy competitive attitude, people have lost their capacity

love and in the name of religion, they have started dragging down

themselves.

It is said that countries claim about their "progress" in many fields

but as

a whole their growth is stunted. A man involved in a law suit and who

somehow wanted to win, suggested to his lawyer about bribing the judge.

The

shocked lawyer chided him for this very idea. However the decision was

favorable and the client told the lawyer that "he did send bribe but he

did

so on behalf of our opponent." This is an example of how many people's

minds

work in the present days. "When we meditate and pray as a group, the

life

energy of all of us will harmoniously flow into a single stream

spreading

divine fragrance, soaked in the sweetness of love and creating

vibrations of

peace." (Wednesday, December 09, 1998)

**************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) True, they advised their disciples to realize God and be like

them, but

their disciples , out of love and devotion towards them, instead formed

organized religion in their name. Buddha was a Kshatriya and after

self

realization he preached the Truth to his followers but they made a

religion

after Buddha's name. Similarly, Jesus Christ was a Jew and during his

short

lived ministry he taught people to realize God but his chosen disciples

formed Christianity after his name. Even Kabir told people to explore

the

Truth in themselves but after his death his followers were called Kabir

Panthi and a sect or religion called Kabir Panth evolved. All saints

emphasized on self realization, spiritual awakening and being

spiritually

knowledgeable.

They never formed any religion. Spirit or Truth never has any religion

label attached to it. These great sages and saints were the Truth

itself,

they were the spirit itself, how can they form a separate religion away

from

the Truth. Would that not make it false? They knew very well that

anything

other than the Truth is false, so are all these man made religions.

There

are saints now also who though explains the fundamental original

meaning of

all these prevalent religions, always guide and motivate their beloved

disciples to know the true religion -call it a religion of mankind, or

self

or spiritual realization.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Religious rites linked with Nature

Tue, 8 Dec 1998 12:44:12 -0500

{{Religion helps in establishing and maintaining harmony among human

beings,

between an individual and society and between him and Nature}} (1). Our

ancestors gave great importance to Nature worship in religious

practices.

They foresaw that man, due to his selfishness, may forget Nature and

that

the future generations would suffer due to their dissociation from her.

Hence they linked each religious rite with Nature and thereby succeeded

developing an emotional bond between them. The ancients worshipped

trees and

plants. Thus religion teaches man to love the entire creation.

The scriptures laid down that a householder should perform five duties

daily. Among them is to serve all living beings, through the care

extended

to animals and plants. In the past, family members never ate before

feeding

their domestic animals and birds and watering plants and trees, thereby

pleasing Nature in gratitude for her kind gifts. Through these rituals

and

different types of sacrifices, human beings learnt to live in harmony

with

the society and Nature.

Those who declare that religion is merely a collection of blind beliefs

may

not spare even a moment to try to understand the scientific principles

behind spiritual practices. For instance, scriptures prescribe certain

methods to fetch rain. The wise knew that the purity of water thus

obtained

was far superior to that received by artificial means like

cloud-seeding.

Reference is made to modern science saying it is harmful to look

directly at

the Sun during solar eclipse. The same caution was tendered by sages

centuries ago. Using a primitive but effective method, they looked only

the Sun's image reflected in water in which cow dung was dissolved.

The ancients worshipped the cow and the earth. The wall of separation

between human beings and Nature has been created mainly by the selfish

attitude of the humans. They think that Nature's bounty is only for

exploitation by them to meet their selfish ends.

In reality, Nature is but God's visible form which we can behold and

experience through our senses. Prayers will restore our harmony with

her,

which creates the circumstances through which an individual soul can

reach

the Supreme Being.

Scientific inventions are highly beneficial but they should not be

against

Nature. Science has discovered that plants tremble with fear when we go

near

them to pluck their leaves but ages ago, sages, having understood this

truth, lived a life of complete harmlessness. (Tuesday 12/08/1998)

*****************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) It has been observed that the so called religions are one of the

main

causes of disturbances, violence and killings in today's world. We are

seeing that Catholic and Protestants, -both Christians, are fighting in

Northern Ireland for last over 35 years; Jews and Moslems

(Palestinians) are

fighting since World War 2, although for land but more often it divides

religious grounds; Hindus and Moslems had fought three wars between two

nations -India and Pakistan, again on the pretext of land but the basis

partition or division of land itself was on religious differences.

Among

Hindus themselves there was untouchability, different rituals, sects,

beliefs, etc. dividing Hindus. Had the so called Brahmins not

exploited the

rest of the innocent and ignorant masses of India for eras? There have

been

numerous riots and violence due to religions throughout the world and

this

still continues. Does all this not tell us that these religions only

divide

people, create animosity, arguments and fights among people? But a

true

religion does unite people, establish harmony, peace and good will

among

people. Is this not enough proof and evidence that these so called

religions are all man made and none of them fit the above definition of

true religion.

So then, what is the true religion? Two points are put forth here to

explain it. ONE -it appears that English word "religion" may have been

derived from the Latin "Legion" means unite and re means again. Thus

re-legion or religion (distorted over time) means reunite. Now,

reuniting

can not be of the bodies, human bodies, because these are perishable

anyway.

Hence, it has to be of the spirit or soul. Our soul is a part of God

-the

universal soul, as said in the Ramayan, "Ishwar Ansh Jeev Avisaashi,

......"

Means, "This soul is a part of God and is immortal." This soul got

detached

from God after conception and birth. It remembered God while it was in

the

mother's womb, but after birth due to sense gratification it gradually

forgot God completely and engulfed itself in worldly attachments and

illusionary forces, which are strong and overpowering. Thus a true

religion

is a understanding and means to do whatever necessary to unite our soul

with

God. This is possible only by two salient factors -One, our zeal and

eagerness to know God, and Two, the company of a preceptor who knows

God.

It is said, "Chelaa Guru Me, Guru Me Raam; Bhakti Mahaatma, Nyaaraa

Naam."

Means, "The disciple is merged in to the teacher and teacher in to God;

the

importance of devotion and the God's Name or Word is beyond any thing

else."

That is a true religion. Since the soul is everywhere, more pronounced

humans than (gradually diminishing in values) in animals, plants and

stones, brooks, rivers, etc. -all combined, call it Nature; since the

same

soul is in us too and in other humans; and knowing this fact, since

nobody

wants to hurt his own self or soul, he or she will not dare to hurt

others.

This understanding only can and will bring harmony, peace, love among

people

and between an individual and Nature.

Two -religion is translated in Hindi as "Dharma." In Vedas it is

stated,

"Dharati So Dharma." Means, "one (which is) embodied in our selves is

Dharma." This simply states what we should speak, do, think, etc. so

that

we can know the Truth, -the God and embody Him in ourselves. It is a

practice, not a theory; It is an experiment with the Truth, not merely

philosophy; It is a reality, not a virtual imagination; It is the Truth

not

a False pretext or hope. This kind of religion which enables you to

unite

yourself with God will fit the definition of a true religion. It is

open to

all irrespective of their gender, so called religions, race, caste,

creed,

national origin, language, age, beliefs, color, or any other

differences.

It is spiritual knowledge, nothing to do with the matter and material,

physical, or even metaphysical things, rituals, cultures, customs, etc.

Call it anything, it is ONE to experience it. Practice it, it is said

"Practice maketh a man perfect." Aim to know Him -the perfect, the God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Tue, 8 Dec 1998 08:02:45 -0500

* God won't ask how many people you knew here on earth, He will

only ask if you know his son Jesus Christ.

*God won't ask how many good deeds you did. He will ask what

you

did to give glory to Him.

What God Won't Ask

1. God won't ask what kind of fancy car you drove. He will ask how

many

people you took to temple who didn't have transportation.

2. God won't ask the square footage of your house. He will ask how

many people you helped who didn't have a house.

3. God won't ask how many fancy clothes you had in your closet. He

will ask how many of those clothes you gave away to the Salvation

Army.

4. God won't ask what social class you were in. He will ask what kind

of "class" you displayed.

5. God won't ask how many material possessions you had. He will ask

whether those material possessions dictated your life.

6. God won't ask what your highest salary was. He will ask if you

trampled over any people to obtain that salary.

7 . God won't ask how much overtime you worked. He will ask did you

work overtime for your family.

8. God won't ask how many promotions you received. He will ask what

you did to promote others.

9. God won't ask what your job title was. He will ask did you

perform

your job to the best of your ability.

10. God won't ask how many promotions you took to chase a dollar

bill.

He will ask how many promotions you refused to advance your

family's

quality of life.

11. God won't ask how many times you didn't run around on your

spouse.

He will ask how many times you did.

12. God won't ask how many degrees you had. He will ask how many

people

you thanked for helping you get those degrees.

13. God won't ask what your parents did to help you. He will ask

what

you did to help your parents.

14. God won't ask what you did to help yourself. He will ask what

you

did to help others.

15. God won't ask how many friends you had. He will ask how many

people you were a friend to.

16. God won't ask what you did to protect your rights. He will ask

what

you did to protect the right of others.

17. God won't ask what neighborhood you lived in. He will ask what

other

neighborhoods you visited.

18. God won't ask how many times you told the truth. He will ask

how

many times you told a lie.

19. God won't ask about the color of your skin. He will ask about

the

color of your heart.

20. God won't ask how many times your deeds matched your words. He

will

ask how many times they didn't.

All of us will stand before God someday..

and everything we did, said, & thought

will all come to light.

I don't know about you but

I have some things I want to make right.!!!

Monday, 7 Dec 1998 12:17:51 -0500

Infinite compassion of the Almighty

One becomes easily satiated with sense experiences because of the

limitation

of the senses which tire after sometime. But it is not so with regard

spiritual experience. {{In the initial stages of spiritual life a

spiritual

aspirant can experience God only through the senses, like beholding His

beautiful form in images and listening to His glory}} (3). As he

evolves

further he attains one- pointedness of mind which leads to {{the state

union (Samadhi), in which the senses and the mind cease to function.

The

beauty of spiritual experience is such that one never feels satiated

with it

and craves for more and more}} (4).

This fact is highlighted in the Bhagavata Purana in Pareekshit's case.

As he

listened to the Lord's deeds (Lila) in His different incarnations

narrated

to him by Sage Suka, the king gave up food and even water, his mind

having

attained total concentration. When the sage started his narration on

the

Lord's incarnation as Krishna, the king beseeched him to expound on

this

elaborately.

It is said that the sage narrated how even the birth of the Lord took

place

under extraordinary circumstances thus revealing His divine nature.

Even as

an infant His acts were supernatural like His killing the ogress Putana

who

visited Gokul with the intention of killing Him, at the instance of

Kansa.

But, the Lord's compassion was such that He granted the supreme state

liberation even to one who meant ill to Him. Lest that Kansa get wind

Krishna's birth and His whereabouts, even His naming ceremony was

performed

in secrecy. Vasudeva sent Sage Gargacharya, his family priest to

Nandagopa's

house for the purpose.

As the divine child grew He became the cynosure of all eyes in Gokul

and the

simple cowherd maidens reveled in His pranks and vied with one another

to be

with Him. They abandoned their hearths and homes and rushed to His

side,

unaware that it was His divine nature which attracted them. Even when

the

small child performed superhuman deeds it did not arouse their

suspicion;

such was the spell He had cast on them.

Of all His acts of grace, that showered on His foster-mother Yashoda is

unparalleled. The Supreme Being whom the Yogis and the sages try to

capture

in their hearts with their penance and austerities, allowed Himself to

bound by Yashoda with a rope. She tried securing Krishna with a rope to

punish Him for breaking the butter-churning pot, but failed in her

repeated

attempts as the rope fell short every time. Seeing His mother's

predicament

{{the Lord out of infinite compassion allowed Himself to be bound}}

(5).

(Monday Dec. 07, 1998)

*************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Self is also known as Spirit or Soul. Thus self-realization is

spiritual knowledge, or "Atma-gyan" or "Brahma-gyan" or "Brahma-vidya."

Therefore, this is also known as knowledge of God or God-realization

as it

is said that ,"Atma So Paramatma."

(2) To act detached is the most difficult thing. How do we then act

detached? Gandhi said, "Hate the sin and not the sinner." Usually it

very hard to separate the sin from the sinner because the sinner is the

bearer or doer of the sin. However, with spiritual knowledge, we look

the spirit of any body including that of the sinner which is the same

as any

other spirit like our own. Then we will not dislike the sinner but we

would

refrain from doing any sin. We would then be acting detached. Company

saints enable us to look at the spirit, the live force, and not the

dead

bodies.

(3) This indicates that God has to be in a form, most preferential a

human

form, so that our senses can register Him. Though form only we can go

formless.

(4) This is the state like sleep or trance. You get a glimpse of the

Lord

and you never want to be separate from it. You wish you can remain in

that

sleep seeing the Lord and getting abundant of bliss. Your mind become

still that it only sees one thing and none else. It ceases to wander

from

thought to thought. Since all senses are controlled by mind, none of

the

senses bother you because your servant mind is controlled by you. You

become pure soul or spirit and bliss.

(5) Without God's will one can not know God. However, God will only

will

when the individual will want to know Him. God knows everybody, but

everybody does not know God. Hence, those individuals who are

determined

with steadfastness to know Him, when He pleases, He reveals Himself to

them.

Garud -the Vishnu's carrier, got confused about Rama and doubted

whether

Rama was God. Therefore, to dispel his doubt Rama -the God, got

Himself

tied down by a serpent and when Garud saw this he (out of his pride

that

even he can kill a snake, if Rama is really a God He would have easily

killed it) thought that Rama was not God. He asked to Narad, who

directed

him to Brahma, then to Shiva, and finally to Kagbhusundiji (a saint)

who

dispelled his doubt and Garud knew about God -through a saint only. In

Ramayan, Kagbhusundiji said to Garud, "Raam Krapaa Binu Sunu Khagraai,

Jaani

Na Jaai Raam Prabhutaai." Means, "Without God's grace, O, Garud

listen,

one can not know God and His greatness." Similarly, without God's own

will

(to be punished by Yahoda) Yashoda could not punish Krishna. Krishna

did

that to reveal Himself to Yashoda, but she could not understand Krishna

due

to attachment and illusion. Saints can dispel the darkness of illusion

and

attachment, therefore, wise men seek a saint to seek God.

With the blessings from God.

Servant of His servants

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Saturday Dec. 05, 1998

Knowledge alone can liberate man

Life in the world continues to be a struggle as long as a person does

not

realize the true nature of his Self (Atman). As long as he identifies

himself with his mind-body complex because of ignorance, its

afflictions

continue to trouble him. The way out of this struggle is by

{{Self-realization}} (1). The scriptures have prescribed different

methods

to enable an aspirant to embark on the spiritual path according to his

capacity.

The stages in which spiritual progress can proceed with success

involves

first an active life, the path of action (Karma yoga), during which he

masters the way to {{act in the world with detachment}} (2). The result

practicing the path of action is purification of the mind which is

necessary

for further spiritual evolution. Ignorance of the nature of the Self,

which

is the cause of bondage, can be removed only by spiritual knowledge.

Hence

the path of action cannot by itself lead to Self- realization.

It is said that after the spiritual aspirant succeeded in the path of

knowledge (Jnana yoga) struggles in life stopped. Graduation to the

path of

knowledge is the fruit of the path of action. Whatever man seeks in the

world, bliss, peace and eternity, can be realized only within - the

Self.

Without realizing this he struggles to find them outside and is

frustrated

because he cannot find them.

So one who reveals in his Self is complete. He is content ``to be'' and

does

not depend on others or the material world for his happiness.

Contentment

results because there is no scope for comparison because this is the

highest

state and there is nothing further to realize.

Man cannot derive contentment in relative achievements because when he

sets

a record there is always the possibility of someone else breaking that

record. All material achievements are relative in nature. True

fulfillment

is possible only in Self-realization. While in bondage the aspirant

acts for

attaining fulfillment, after Self-realization he acts out of

fulfillment.

His actions will not bind him any more.

Even after realization physical dependence will be there as freedom at

this

level is not possible. One has to accept this and submit at this level,

for instance, obeying the traffic rules if one wants to drive on the

road.

But total freedom is possible at the mental and psychological levels

for the

realized person.

As long as man remains in bondage he has emotional dependence on

someone or

the other. The devotee instead transfers this dependence on God; a

realized

person who is totally Self- dependent. Hence a realized person acts in

total

freedom. (Saturday Dec. 05, 1998)

Providence cannot be thwarted

Fri, 4 Dec 1998 12:37:02 -0500

{{Human birth mainly occurs as a result of good deeds performed in

births as a human, but being human both good and bad deeds are

inevitable

and hence joys and sorrows are intrinsic to it. Human nature is such

that

man will take the credit for himself when he is successful and denounce

Providence for his lot when beset with problems forgetting the fact

that he

is reaping only the result of his earlier misdeeds}} (1).

The Almighty dispenses according to man's Karma and He is never

partial.

Further, it must be borne in mind that the Lord never allows His

devotees to

suffer in life. When a person experiences sorrows he must be convinced

that

his suffering is due to his earlier misdeeds and instead of bemoaning

his

{{fate}} (2), his devotion must get further strengthened and he must

continue to discharge his duties properly.

This truth is highlighted in the Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana in

Sita's

query about Rama when Hanuman found Her. She pointedly inquired about

Rama's

conduct in His sorrow due to their separation, "I hope Sri Rama does

not

feel afflicted... Does the ideal Man discharge His duties and does not

feel

helpless nor perplexed in the matter of duties? Does the Prince seek

the

favor of Gods? And does He fall back upon personal effort as well as on

Providence for the success of His undertakings? I hope He has not sunk

into

despondency on meeting with great misfortunes."

It is said that till Hanuman located Sita he was intent on his mission,

but

after accomplishing the same and inspiring confidence in Her that Rama

would

soon rescue Her, he went about causing havoc in Ravana's capital so

that

Ravana would get an inkling of Rama's strength. When he was finally

captured

and brought before Ravana, it was at Vibhishana's insistence that it

was

unethical to kill an envoy, that his life was spared.

As a punishment his tail was set aflame and on learning about this from

the

ogresses, Sita protected his life by praying to the Lord of Fire, Agni,

and

Her power protected Hanuman and he escaped without any mishap. In

retaliation he set fire to the entire place excepting the grove where

Sita

was kept captive. After dousing the fire, he visited Sita once again

concerned whether his action would have affected Her and happy to find

Her

safe, took leave of Her after reassuring Her that She would be rescued

shortly.

The Sundara Kanda named after Hanuman is a testimony to his singular

traits

which is apparent from the very fact that he was entrusted with the

responsibility of finding Sita. The manner in which he went about to

accomplish this successfully, highlights his devotion to Rama and Sita.

(Friday, December 04, 1998)

*********************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) If one does not perform good deeds in the human life and does not

embark

on the spiritual mission to realize God, he gets in to the cycle of

birth

and deaths in lower forms of life. However, those who are already on a

spiritual path they are assured of human birth in order to complete

their

mission in next life provided they do not do any bad deeds.

(2) Fate is determined by one's actions. Result of those actions which

performed in the past and do not remember them (either due to a long

time

passed in this life or due to death in previous life) is known as fate.

is said that "Karmasheel" man can change his fate. Many did, Tulsi and

Surdasji were ordinary people engaged in worldly things but once they

passed

that stage, they became great saints only by their sheer determination

and

judicious use of the wisdom to find God. So as Valmiki -the notorious

robber/decoit and serial killer who became a great saint -the

"Adikavi" or

the "Brahma-rishi." All due to the mercy of his spiritual master, who

always impartial and whose blessings are priceless.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Human birth, not accidental

Thu, 3 Dec 1998 12:10:36 -0500

{{Human birth, not accidental}} (1)

Man evolves spiritually in the course of various human births and

whatever

merit he acquires by the performance of {{good deeds}} (2) is never in

vain.

They may not bear fruit immediately but remain latent and fructify at

opportune time. Likewise, when one has progressed along the path of

devotion

and remembers God always, this natural tendency of the mind is retained

and

passed on from birth to birth.

The concept of Karma and rebirth are thus necessary to explain the

natural

propensities of man. The circumstances of birth, like for instance, the

family in which one is born and the social environment in which one

grows

up, are determined by one's actions in previous births. This is the

reason

why some exhibit a very high level of spiritual evolution even in their

young age. Sage Sukadev is a case in point.

Birth is thus not accidental and it ensures that the transmigrating

soul is

nurtured in the most ideal conditions conducive to its spiritual

growth.

This does not negate the freedom of the individual if this should lead

one

to conclude that life is predetermined; man has the freedom to exercise

his

will in his actions. If his actions are righteous, then he does not

incur

sin.

It is said that the manner in which Bhagwat Purana was related to

Pareekshit

proved the king's spiritual stature. Though he was cursed to die in

seven

days time for insulting a sage, he had the great fortune of listening

to the

glory of the Lord during the brief period at his disposal. This was

because

of his parentage, being the grandson of the noble Pandavas who were

great

devotees and the grace of Lord Krishna which saved him even before he

was

born.

Spiritual tradition also emphasizes the importance of one's mental

preoccupation at the moment of death. If through constant practice the

mind

dwells on the Lord then the soul is liberated. This may seem on the

face of

it quite easy. But, it is not so. Unless one is a steadfast devotee of

God

it is not possible to fix the mind on Him when the mind and the body

are

under great strain.

The Bhagavata Purana in one of the introductory chapters dilates on how

Bhishma attained the supreme blissful state when he breathed his last

in the

presence of the Lord. As he awaited the auspicious hour when the sun

turned

north to shed his mortal coil, at the instance of Lord Krishna, he

discoursed on various aspects of Dharma (righteousness) to Yudishtra.

That

he was aware of Krishna's divinity attests to his spiritual eminence

when he

identified Him as the Supreme Being while reciting the Vishnu

Sahasranama.

(Thursday, December 03, 1998

****************************************************************************

***

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Human birth is certainly not accidental. It is by the grace of

God,

who out of His abundant mercy and feeling pity on suffering of Jeev

given

the human birth. In Ramayan it is said, "Kabhunk Kari Karunaa Nar

Dehee,

Det Ish Binu Hetu Sanehi;" means, "only sometime out of mercy God

gives

human birth without any of His interest, and due to love to give a

chance to

soul to liberate from the cycle of birth and death and be in the union

God. But, man soon forgets his goal and aim and wanders from one

thought/action to another and spends his whole life in worldly

perishable

things and accomplishments -such as a big house, a big car, a high

earning

job, a big bank balance, and then die in vain empty handed. Sometimes

his company and environment he strives to pray God and feels need for

God

realization. Thus what ever he does during human life determines what

birth

he will get. Usually at the end, what ever he thinks at the time of

his

death the soul transmigrate in that form. His thinking is determined

by his

actions -good or bad, throughout his life as a human. Thus the soul

with

its "sanskaars" laden on the "Antahkaran" and ego by wisdom takes

another

form in an environment conducive to full fill the results of his past

actions. In all lives, except human, the Jeev reaps the results of

bad

actions done in human life. Only in human life while he reaps the

results

of his past actions, he is also free to perform actions -good or bad

according to his wisdom. That is why human form is very important. No

other form of life has this freedom to act and by judicious use of this

freedom man can become free of the cycle of the birth and death. That

liberation, "Mukti" or "Moksha."

(2) The only good deeds are those which help us accomplishing our goal

realize God. All those actions which deter our efforts to know

ourselves or

know God are, therefore, bad or not good. Otherwise, nothing is good

bad, it is the thinking which make the same action bad or good

depending

upon the place and time. We know this from our worldly things also.

Same

thing at a time becomes good at one place and it is considered bad at

other

place, while at any one place, the same act is considered good at one

time

and bad at the other time. There can be several examples of it.

Therefore, one should strive for having virtues such as speaking truth,

love

for mankind, generosity, sincerity, honesty, piousness, kindness,

Trust,

service, humility, humbleness, etc. and shedding vices such as anger,

greed,

lust, zealously, lying, stealing, selfishness, pride, ego,

aggressiveness,

etc. Hopefully, then by the grace of God we can come in contact with

saints

and sages of Truth and grow spiritually.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Efficacy of chanting the Divine name

Wed, 2 Dec 1998 12:40:16 -0500

{{Chanting the Divine name has been hailed in the scriptures as the

easiest

method to realize God which can be practiced by one and all. While the

other

methods have certain prescriptions which must be observed, surrendering

God by chanting His name can be resorted to by anyone in any situation.

the spiritual tradition the efficacy of this method has been attested

in the

lives of many devotees}} (1).

Among the Divine names, Rama name has a unique status because it is

both a

name of God and an incantation (mantra) by itself and hence is a Taraka

mantra capable of delivering man from bondage. It is further the

combination

of the most important syllables in the Ashtakshara and Panchakshara

mantras,

and hence refers to the Supreme Being. {{The choice of this name by

Sage

Vasishta for Rama is thus highly significant}} (2).

When Sita had almost decided to end Her life unable to bear the threats

and

reproaches of the ogresses guarding Her when She was kept in captivity

the Ashoka grove, it was Rama's name and glory which infused hope in

Her

heart and gave Her a fresh lease of life. Hanuman who had reached the

spot

where She had been held captive surmised after seeing her actions that

She

was totally demoralized and his astute mind considered the pros and

cons of

the manner in which he should act to ensure that his mission of

locating Her

would not be in vain.

Hanuman related Rama's glory and the incidents in His life till the

point

when he had been entrusted with the task of finding Her, hearing which

She

experienced great joy that Her plight would soon be over. He related

various

incidents in their lives to convince Sita about his identity and handed

over

Rama's signet ring to Her to win Her confidence.

Sita in return, by Her act of entrusting Her Choodamani, a jewel worn

on the

head, to Hanuman to be handed over to Rama, telling him that Rama would

understand the significance of Her action, underscored the importance

total surrender to the Lord. She indicated by this act that She

depended

only on Her Lord and that He would come to Her succor.

{{Namaskara}} (3) is reiteration of one's submission for protection and

faith in His grace and {{the Lord Himself has pointed out that He never

forsakes such a devotee in the Gita: "Give your mind to Me, be devoted

Me, worship Me. Doing so, you will come to Me alone, I truly promise

you;

for you are exceptionally dear to Me."}} (4) It was with total faith

that

She waited for the Lord to come to Her rescue without making any effort

Her part to alleviate Her condition. (Wednesday, December 02,1998)

********************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) In modern days "KaliYug" when man's life is short chanting God's

Name or

Word and meditating on His form is all which is required to start a

spiritual life for revelation of God. There are many names of God but

the

ONE which is changeless, which was there in the beginning and is now

and

will remain in the end,that Word or Name of God must be chanted. That

is a

"Aghora Mantra" -the one which is not written or spoken aloud, the one

which is chanted with every breath of life (the Jeev).

(2) Do you think that Guru Vashishtha will tell his disciple Rama to

chant

his own name "Rama"? Vashishtha gave to Rama the same Name which he

himself

was chanting or had chanted. Is it possible that everyone chant their

own

name? Then Krishna must have chanted 'Krishna-Krishna", or an

individual by

name "Chunnilal" should chant "Chunni -Chunni". And, what will be the

consequences of it? Will it not make the individual full of ego, and

will

it not invite his own destruction, such as Harinyakshyapu did when he

ordered Prahlaad to enforce this rule?

(3) Namaskara -is a common salutation used by Indians. There may be

several

literary interpretation of this, but one simplest appears logical to

mind is

"Namah" (I) bow down or revere (to you) "Ish" (who is) God's "Akara"

form;

or I bow down to you who looks like god. In Bible, it is said in

genesis,

"The God made the man in His own image." So as all scriptures indicate

that

the shape of man is same as of supreme form of (creation) existence or

God.

(4) How much clearly one can say or write? Here the Lord is Krishna

and the

devotee is Arjuna. Therefore, we worship only one who is exceptionally

dear

to us. To God everybody is dear, but to a devotee only the God is

dearest

and nearest. When the devotee realizes God in himself then everybody

becomes dear to him, just like to God everybody was dear. Notice the

reason

or means, to give our mind to Him, to be devoted to Him, to worship

Him, is

only Love, "Dear". Meera said, "Me To Liyo Govind Mol, ....; Ye To

Aavat

Prem Ke Mol." When Meera said she bought God, then people asked what

price

she paid, she replied "LOVE." Thus, Love, devotion and Service to God

the basis of God realization and spiritual awakening and knowledge.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++=

Bondage, result of man's ignorance

Tue, 1 Dec 1998 12:38:19 -0500

{{Bondage, result of man's ignorance}} (1)

The scriptures have prescribed {{various methods}} (2) for man to

realize

the goal of liberation from bondage. The necessity for different

methods is

to enable everyone to progress spiritually as {{the level of spiritual

evolution differs from person to person}} (3). {{The Bhagavad Gita

teaches

the paths of action, devotion and knowledge (Karma, Bhakti and Jnana

yogas)

as means to liberation}} (4).

The path of action stresses the importance of discharging one's duties

life underscoring the fact that spiritual life is not antithetical to

secular life. When a person has made a beginning what is essential is a

re-orientation of all actions to the ultimate goal. The same actions

then

instead of becoming binding enable one to overcome bondage. It helps in

purifying the mind and to overcome base qualities like anger, jealousy

and

desires which impede spiritual progress.

Since the root cause of man's bondage is the ignorance of the true

nature of

his Self (Atman) only knowledge of the self can remove this ignorance

and

reveal his spiritual nature to him. That this stage is only a

stepping-stone

and one must graduate to the next when one has benefited from it, is

pointed

out in the Gita thus, "To the contemplative soul who desires to climb

to the

heights of Karma yoga, action with detachment is spoken of as the

stepping-

stone; for the same man when he is established in Yoga, absence of all

thoughts of the world is said to be the way of blessedness."

Karma yoga is often compared to the womb of the mother which nurtures

the

growing fetus till it attains the necessary maturity to live

independently.

So also, when the aspirant had attained purity of mind and

sense-control he

must evolve to the next stage of Self-inquiry.

The path of action is one of extroversion when the aspirant has to

engage in

action till he masters the secret of acting with detachment; after this

stage, the path of knowledge involves withdrawal because knowledge of

the

Self can be grasped only by introversion of the mind. In this stage

which is

one of contemplation, the spiritual aspirant has to meditate on the

question

"Who am I?" which in Vedanta is known as Self-inquiry.

This meditation leads to the discovery of one's Self. Thus knowledge is

the

result of the path of action. Without graduating to Self- inquiry the

path

of action is incomplete; and without practicing the path of action it

is not

possible to embark directly on the path of knowledge. (Tuesday,

December 01,

1998)

**************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) There is no bondage at all, due to ignorance the man thinks so. In

Ramayan it is said, "Jad Chetan Me Granthi Padi Gayee, Jadapi Mrathaa

Chhutath Kathinayee; ....." Means, the body (the dead earth) and the

spirit

or soul (the live or real thing) are tied together as a knot of life,

although it is false they are not tied together yet it is not easy to

untie

this knot." We see it in our daily lives that people die and the soul

and

body are separated, that is they are separable, so they can be

separated.

Once one has done it while living one has not to worry of death

anymore.

That is liberation. Some body said, "No Dware Kaa Pinjara, Taame

Panchhi

Pon; Rahane Ko Acharaj Hai, Gaye Achambhaa Kon." Means, "This human

body is

like a cage having none gates, all open, and there is a bird in it; the

surprise is that the bird is staying in it and there is no surprise if

leaves." Those who can take this bird out, for a fly out, by

determination,

meditation, and trance or "Samaadhi" are free of the cycle of life and

death.

(2) There are various methods but all of them have their different

reach and

all of them do not take man to realize the supreme goal. The goal of

liberation from the bondage can be achieved by more than one method but

the

supreme goal of service to God can not be accomplished without Love and

Devotion. Thus, there is only one method, i.e., the method or path of

Love

an Devotion "Bhakti Yoga" and none else to reach God.

(3) The level of spiritual interest does differ from person to person

but

all people do have the same spirit or self or God in them. The

difference

is being due to the number of layers of illusion and attachments they

have

put over it, hence making them appear different in spiritual evolution.

(4) The Gita also says of Raj Yoga, Sankhaya Yoga, Sanyaas Yoga, etc.

but

the Karma, Bhakti and Gyan Yogas are the main ones and among these

three

also the Bhakti Yoga is supreme. Actually, these all are named

different

but in reality even Karma and Gyan Yogas are also parts of Bhakti Yoga.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Preceptors show path to God's empire

Mon, 30 Nov 1998 12:09:37 -0500

{{Preceptors show path to God's empire}} (1)

God will never swerve from the firm declaration made by Him on two

important

occasions that He is ever ready to grant protection to anyone who seeks

from Him. There is no need to verify whether His this commitment will

honoured. It is not an empty promise but has come out of His concern

for the

humanity in turmoil. How to invoke the grace of the Lord and become

eligible

for His mercy has been laid down by savants in a recipe that is simple

but

gives an open expression to the penitents' surrender at His feet. A

devotte

talks with His Lord, "Do not forsake me, as I am helpless. You have

the

powers to take me into your fold which I do not possess. You have

abundant

knowledge which I am denied. Grant me both as you are aware of my

sincerity"

God's messengers, who are deputed to guide the aspirants, have,

through

their works and elucidations, cleared the latter's doubts in respect of

some

statements which may apparently seem to be confusing. The saints'

clarifications have set at rest all such portions which were

misleading.

God Himself had taken the roles of a teacher and a student, as an

example

and, to enable people to follow the right path.

The greatest emphasis they have laid in their treatises is about the

relationship between the Lord and a devotee, the obstacles in the way

approaching Him and the validity of the doctrine of surrender. They

have

described the modes of observing the three types of procedures while

pleading one's viability to resort to the path of devotion and hence to

grant asylum as promised. The Acharyas have shown us the royal road to

reach

God's empire and it is for the suffering souls to avail of this benefit

and

get permanently released from the bondage. (Monday, November 30, 1998)

******************************************************* | COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) True. Jesus Christ said in Bible, "No one can go to my father

unless

thorough me." History tells us that who so ever has seen God's empire

has

repeatedly told it loud and clear that only a preceptor can show us the

path

to God's empire. Kabir, Nanak, Rama, Krishna, Meera Paltu, Raidas,

Valmiki,

etc. all of them, have said the same ONE thing. Ramayan and Gita

reiterate

the same thing again and again. Mohammed would not have got the

revelation

had there not been Gabriel, so as Shabari without Mratanga, Sukhdev

without

Vyasji, Rama without Vashishtha, Arjuna without Krishna, Kabir without

Ramanandji, Nanak without Kabir, Ramakrishnaji without Totapuriji, etc.

Actually Ramayan says, "Guru Binu Bhav Nidhi Tarai Na Koi; Jo Biranchi

Shankar Sam Hoi." Means, "without Guru no one can get free from the

cycle of

death and birth even if they are like the Brahma and Shiva." It is

well

known that even Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva also were initiated by their

preceptors before they knew the realms of God. It is said, "Hari,

Biranchi

Shiva Dikshaa Lina, Narad Dheemar Ko Guru Kinaa." Means, "Vishnu,

Brahma and

Shiva were initiated and Narad made Dheemer as his Guru." Thus it's

established well beyond any doubt that only a bonafide preceptor who

has

walked himself on that path, who knows the kingdom of God, can and does

show

us the path to God's empire. Therefore, seekers of God or spirituality

must

first seek a preceptor, else all the efforts to know God goes in vain.

is almost impossible to be born without parents, or to have cow's milk

without a cow, or to have knowledge without a teacher. Clearly it is

said,

"Bin Guru Gyan Kahan Se Paau, Deejo Daan Hari Gun Gaau." Means, "Where

do I

get the knowledge without a preceptor, please bless me so that I can

sing

the glory of God." My master has so very kindly mercifully given me the

blessing that I can utter the glory of God, His glory, else this tongue

was

there before also. These hands were there before also, doing no good

for

the very soul which kept them moving. Therefore, one must seek a

preceptor

at any cost. It is said, "Ye Tan Vish Kee Belari, Guru Amrit Kee

Khaan;

Sheesh Diye Jo Guru Mile To Bhi Sastaa Jaan." Means, "This body is the

wine

of lots of poison and the Preceptor takes us beyond death, therefore,

even

if we find a preceptor at the cost of our head or death it is a good

bargain." What are you waiting for, my friend? Wake up, arise, go to

preceptor who knows Him. You want to talk with God, clearly it is

said, "Jo

Kaam Davaa Bhee Kar Na Sake, Vo Kaam Duaa Se Hotaa Hai; Jab Murshid

Kaamil

Miltaa Hai, To Baat Khuda Se Hotaa Hai." Thus without Him He is not

known.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++=

Mother's supreme love for children

Fri, 27 Nov 1998 19:43:32 -0500

In the traditional method of imparting knowledge to students, the

Vedas have given valuable

guidelines about their behavior in the future. At the time of leaving

the portals of their institutions,

a reference used to be made by the teachers during the valedictory

address to the verse from one

of the Upanishads containing an extremely useful advice viz., they

should revere their mothers,

respect their fathers, honor their teachers and welcome guests (in

that order). The prime position

has thus been assigned to the mother because of the sacrifice she

makes for which there is no

parallel. She is responsible to train her children and shape their

future. All the scriptures have

described the role they play and the obedience to be shown to them.

A story is told of a mother, who brought up her son with care, herself

going through difficulties.

But he fell into the net spread by bad company and took to evil habits

like stealing and addiction.

Once there was a wager whether he could fetch his mother's heart. The

ungrateful boy did not

hesitate to obtain it (by killing her) and as he was carrying it in

his hands, he stumbled and fell.

Even then, the ``heart'', with all love, asked him whether he was

injured. This illustrates a mother's

supreme love for her wards. Even an ascetic, before whom all

prostrate, will bow before his mother.

It is important that {{the education must be given for women as in

their hands lies the future of the country by ensuring that their

children developed discipline and studied properly}} (1). The

Vaishnava tradition emphasized on the twin objectives of acquiring

knowledge and putting into practice what people have learnt. They

should not forget what they had studied because learning is a

continuous process. In this connection education is essential for all

but the knowledge they had gained should remain indelible.

The first emphasis is on dealing with ``learning,'' is the duty

relating to one's conduct

and to one's knowledge, which translated into practice, becomes

culture. The couplet says:

{{"Acquire a sound knowledge of things which should be learnt and then

act accordingly."}} (2) Our

scriptures have given importance to women's role as they are the

custodians of our heritage and

makers of future citizens. For a teacher, there is no other happiness

than to see the affection

showered on him by his students, particularly not forgetting him when

they occupy different

positions in life. The teacher, on his part, has the intuition to spot

the latent talent among his

students. (Friday, November 27, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Nehru, one of the Indian past prime minister, used to say, "If

you educate a man you educate only one person, but if you educate a

woman you educate the whole family." It is true, women bear

children, what they hear their children pick up in a subtle way, what

they eat, drink, or smoke affects their children. The example of

Abhimanyu, who learnt to enter in to the chakravyuh while he was in

his mother's womb, is not unfamiliar to many of us. There are many

other examples, such as Prahlaad, etc. Then children spend most of

their time with their mothers specially first few years, and

thereafter also, until they marry. Women's education is most

important not only because they are mothers, but also because they

become wives first, who influences their husbands. They can make or

break a family. They are instrumental in creating an environment

where they and other members of their family live. This environment

eventually affects their own children (when they become parents) and

imparts them "sanskaars" or conduct, values, etc.

Most importantly, the question arises, how do we define education? Is

it literacy like B. A., M. A., Ph. D., M. D., J. D., Noble Laureate,

etc. with which some people can become church pastors, college

professors, or presidents or heads of the countries? It is well known

that such highly educated and well placed people have been convicted

in many scandals, some even have been sentenced to prison. Obviously,

that education will not make a woman a good mother, a good wife. The

right education must inculcate habit of always speaking truth, being

honest, being kind, forgiving, loving people and not material objects,

being respectful to people, caring people, not being zealous, having

good moral character, be free from lust, greed, anger, pride, ego,

etc. Only people with this kind of education can give a person better

family values, and more so better human values. Only such education

can motivate a person to know the Truth, and be spiritually awakened..

(2) Acquiring sound knowledge of things is important but equally

important is to follow it or act accordingly. However, if these

things are all material things then it would do no good, as matter has

no existence without the spirit. It is perishable and always

changeable. Acquiring this material knowledge will only enable us to

draw more matter, more material wealth, more food, bigger houses and

cars, etc. but it can never give us the eternal happiness and bliss.

Hence, a person must acquire the real knowledge, the spiritual

knowledge, the everlasting knowledge, which is not perishable with the

death of this body, and which only grows until it culminates and merge

in God. This spiritual knowledge can only be obtained from those who

have it. An earnest, sincere request with a guileless heart and

strong will power to know God is all that is required in seekers of

spiritual knowledge, or God.

Obtaining this knowledge do no good to us in this life until we

practice it and act accordingly. Yoga and spiritual knowledge are not

a thing to read or write, it ought to be done, practiced, before we

can see any of its result in terms of knowing the Truth, the Lord, God

or spirit. Fortunately, it's all within our reach, because the earth

is never devoid of a spiritual master or "Brahma-rishi" at any one

time. Every soul is a seeker of God at different stages of

"Saadhanaa" and they meet each other, thus the same "Jeev-atma"

becomes "Maha-atma" and on to "Param-atma" at some or the other time.

When we are ready and eager, we leave no stone unturned in finding

God. He is so close to us, all we need is someone who can show us

where and how. If we humans can not find Him, perhaps no one else

can. Many great souls have found Him so as we can.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Moral law should not be contravened

Thu, 26 Nov 1998 17:08:16 -0500

The present-day ills in the world can be attributed to the neglect of

spiritual values which has

resulted in lack of character and discipline among people in general.

To experience all-round

peace, people should follow the code of conduct laid down in

scriptures. Moral laws should never

be contravened and the wise guidelines contained in sacred texts ought

to be adopted in life by

everyone. These directives, when followed, would enable a person to

develop humility, good conduct to steer himself properly in the family

and the society.

Both the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, give instructions for every

individual to shape his

future and behave in an ideal manner. There is no bar on anyone

earning money or enjoying

comforts but he should not turn avaricious. Also, it is absolutely

necessary for every aspirant (in

any field) to put forth his efforts to the maximum extent and seek

God's grace for realizing the

objective before him. Both personal endeavor and the Divine grace will

fetch prosperity. God,

who is not partial, extends His guidance to those who are devoted to

Him.

Apart from the morals projected in the Mahabharata, even the

extraordinary technical expertise of

the people of ancient days can be seen by the way in which a huge

edifice was erected with

several innovations and contrivances. Even within this palatial

building, arrangement was made for

one to see water actually flowing and even hear its gurgling sound.

But one could apparently walk over its

surface. However such remarkable, rare intriguing provisions resulted

in the commencement of

family feud. Duryodhana, who attended the special ``Yagya'' performed

by Yudhishtra, could not

realize about the intricate architectural splendor in this building

and so faltered while taking his

steps. This provoked laughter in the queen who also made some unsavory

remarks. Provoked

by the humiliation, Duryodhana vowed to take revenge. The seed was

thus sown for the future

rivalry among the cousins. He also wanted to erect a similar mansion.

His desire grew into greed

and a scheme was hatched to invite the eldest among the cousins for a

game of dice, knowing his

weakness for this play. The adviser, Vidura, was sent to fetch the

noble man. It is said, Vidura felt that there was more in this

invitation than what met the eye. Ultimately, Yudhishtra lost

everything that was staked and with his brothers and wife went to the

forest. The epic focuses the attention of everyone about {{the

disastrous consequences of gambling and the need to avoid yielding to

its temptation}} (1). It is also necessary to avoid passing harsh

comments about others. (Thursday, November 26, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTRARY

Dear Friend:

(1) One needs to avoid yielding to the temptations of mind and ten

senses. Else it will be a big gambling with the life. We have got

this life due to the blessings of God and we can not afford to lose it

by taking a chance (such as in gambling). God realization is only

possible when one has control over his mind, which controls all the

senses. Once our mind becomes still and it does not jump from one

thought to another we can see the image of God in us clearly. That is

why people like lonely places, free of noise, in not too hot or too

cold environment, to meditate. We know it from our simple daily

experiences also that as long as we keep making ripples, waves or

currents in the water by stirring it or shaking the pot we can not see

the image of sun or moon in it. That does not mean that there is no

sun or moon out there. But once we make the pot of water still and

stop even minute winds which may make ripples and waves in it we can

see the same sun or moon's image in it. We can calm the mind by

constant practice under the guidance of some one who has calmed down

his own mind. This is the worldly death of a seeker of God and the

birth of a spiritual aspirant of God then ensues. With this all

attachment with world ceases and love for God develops which only

results in His vision.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Six real, unfailing relations of man

Wed, 25 Nov 1998 11:32:32 -0500

There are six "real, unfailing" relations of man, viz., Truth, Wisdom,

Righteousness, Compassion, Peace and Forgiveness. Every individual has

it, the entire humanity has also one and it is "Truth". It is

synonymous to Mother. Those who follow this universal mother, will

never face problems in life. She remains unchanged in all periods of

time and transcends all the three attributes, viz., purity, attachment

and inertia. "Wisdom" is the true father, "virtue", the brother. It

(virtue) is loved by the entire humanity irrespective of caste,

creed and nationality. The Vedas give utmost importance to Truth and

Righteousness. In the Ramayana, when Lakshmana, who personified

virtue, fainted, Rama lamented that it was difficult to get a brother

like him.

Compassion is the "true" friend. While "peace" is described as wife by

the Sanskrit verse which has spelt out the six true relations, it

(peace) is the royal path in the spiritual realm. A `"true" son is

forgiveness, which encompasses all good qualities. The world

experiences agitation and disturbance because of lack of these sacred

traits. Sages and saints had undertaken many spiritual practices in

quest of "Truth". They ultimately had its vision in the form of God.

The Vedas proclaim "Speak the Truth and uphold virtues". Once people

stood by Truth, they will find "Divinity" everywhere. A person who

possesses qualities like anger, hatred and jealousy can only be

called a beast. In his heart, God will decline to reside. A person's

happiness is heaven and his misery is hell. The concepts of hell and

heaven have been introduced in order to see that one carries out only

pious deeds. Scriptures point out that the cause of grief is in one's

own mind and actions.

A saint (whose birthday fell two days ago) referred to the penance

undertaken by the Buddha for six years. One day, he opened his eyes

and said he had caught hold of the thief. Who was this culprit? He

was none else than the "Mind." Realizing that mind was the root cause

of all suffering, he asked people to keep it under control, then there

would be no problems. Human heart can be compared to the Ocean of

Milk but today it has become an ocean of salinity. {{The heart

should be kept pure}} (1) so that Lord Vishnu can reside therein. If

it is made a place of impure thoughts (like the ocean of salinity)

only whales and sharks would dwell in it. If a person realizes that

God is "within" him, he will not search for Him outside. "God is with

you, in you, and around you. There is no one nearer to you than God,

like a mother, worship Him as your mother." (Wednesday, November 25,

1998)

***************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) This is not the heart which pumps blood through our body. That

is just a muscle full of flesh and blood. This is the spiritual

heart, which is the very seat of God. He is Brahma, He is Vishnu, He

is Mahesh or Shiva, He is the "Sakshaat" real face to face God beyond

all gods, He is the supreme God, I bow down to such a God with all

the eight parts of my body. Such a God resides in me and I can see

Him when I turn myself inwardly. He is so close to me, undoubtedly, I

am because of Him, I am nothing and He is everything -the Lord of all

Lords.

Only ceaseless remembrance of this God will purify this heart. Once

with a guileless heart I pray Lord and forget the rest of the world,

then I see God in the whole world. Where is He not? God is

omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent. Only knowing God's Word and

meditating on Him will enable a person to have spiritual

enlightenment. That is a promise. It is made by all those who had

His vision.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Greatness of the votaries of the Lord

Tue, 24 Nov 1998 12:13:53 -0500

Can anyone be sure that when he is in distress, he will get spontaneous

help

from even intimate friends or close relatives? No doubt, it will be

unwise

and improper to think of such timely assistance because they may be

guided

by factors like time to spare or proximity or resources to spend. But

there

is one "Totally dependable" but invisible "Source" from which any type

assistance, at any moment and at any place will be extended. He is God

who

is not governed by the Law of Time and Space and who is ever ready to

relieve His devotees' grief.

Such devotees should firmly hold on to His feet and wholly depend on

Him.

How to cultivate this attitude of remaining firm in one's faith has

been

mentioned in holy texts. Apart from resorting to the prescribed

religious

duties, one can take to {{constant chanting of God's names and get

associated with pious people}} (1). "I pay my obeisance to these holy

men,

the mines of all virtues," says Tulasidas as "they are stainless and

are

free from attachment and they will assuage the afflictions of those who

take

resort to them with reverence". {{Contact with noble souls is the root

joy and blessings and constitutes the fulfillment of all endeavors,

adds the

saint-poet}} (1). The declaration by the Lord Himself contained in the

Bhagavatham "I am the beloved of all My devotees and am subject to

their

control," brings hope, cheer and confidence to those who pin their

faith in

Him. God adds that pious souls who have fastened their hearts on to Him

enthrall Him.

Asceticism and worship offered are conducive to the highest good, to

those

endowed with humility and other virtues. However, in the case of a doer

who

lacks modesty, those very practices will prove harmful. An emperor,

with

inexhaustible store of wealth and unequaled power, regarded all of them

equal in value to objects seen in a dream. But he remained detached and

fixed his mind on God and was an embodiment of sincerity, simplicity

and

utter humility. Once he observed a vow of monthly fasting but at a

particular stage was caught in a dilemma whether to end it before a

fixed

time or wait till the sage who had come to him returned from his

religious

observances. Consulting {{holy men}} (2), he resorted to the former

step

which enraged {{the saint who created an evil spirit to destroy the

emperor.

But the Holy Discus which was guarding the emperor, chased the saint

for his

misdeed and ultimately on the advice of the Lord, he sought pardon from

the

devotee}} (3). (Tuesday, November 24, 1998)

**************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) One can not chant God's Name until one meets a pious person, a

noble

soul, a saint or satguru. He alone knows Him and His Name and can tell

what is that Name to chant. Therefore, association with pious people

most important. Contact and company with a saint or saints is not only

the

root of all joys and blessings but it is the seed of it, and the self

realization or vision of God is only possible through the Guru. Only

He can

lead us from the darkness of ignorance to the light of wisdom. That is

why

they call him Guru.

A point to note here is that although God's names can be many but since

God

is ONE His name is also ONE and ONLY ONE. Once we know that Name then

only

we can chant it, remember it. If we do not know God how can we remember

Him

or His Name. Yes, we can mechanically chant with our tongue a name or

any

name but not God's Name.

In this universe every physical object has a name and form. These are

two

separate terms but these are integrally attached and related terms.

When we

see a cup, actually we are seeing the shape or form of a cup and we

call

it's name "cup". Because, we named that form or shaped object as cup.

Similarly, when we say its name "cup" the shape or the form of the

object

named cup comes to mind. Thus, name can not be without form or shape

object, and the object can not be without a name.

Hence, suspicious mind people speak as "if there is a God it must have

name and form". If we call His Name as God it must have a form or

shape.

Such people merely believe that there is a God. But spiritually

awakened

people not only believe that there is a God they also know Him and then

believe. The danger in just believing is that we can disbelieve also

because

our believe is baseless, without any base. But if we believe after

knowing

God no power on the earth can shake our believe and we will not falter

praising the Lord.

(2) Holy men! Who are they? How do we define a holy men? Only those who

have

seen God, who know God and who can show you God are Holy men. They

will

give their everything, even their spirit, for your gain in knowing God.

Holy men are not necessarily people who hold high religious offices,

such as

Vatican, or one of the "Peeths" of Shankaracharya, etc., they do not

necessarily wear a particular robe or dress or wear beard, or hair;

they are

not necessarily highly educated or read scriptural books regularly or

even

remember them by heart. They speak truth, what they write or speak

becomes

the scriptures. A holy man is beyond the three states, -awakened,

dream, and

deep sleep, of "jeev" in "Turiyaa" or trance state, which is a balance

nullify the effects of all three. Similarly, He is beyond three

"gunas"

-"Sat, Raj, and Tam." The entire universe is termed as "Prakrati" or

nature

which emanates from one or more of these three gunas. A Holy man is

beyond

prakrati. He knows the Purush, the God.

(3) Was he a saint who created an evil spirit to destroy the emperor?

saint do misdeeds? Are there Holy Discus? Saints do not do any

misdeeds.

Those who do are not saints. They have any or all those powers, -evil

spirit, or Holy Discus, which God has but they do not misuse it. They

only

make good use of it for the welfare of their devotees. Hence, it is

said,

"Hari Ruthe Guru Sharan Hai, Guru Ruthe Nahin Thorh," means, "If the

God is

not happy you can go to Guru, but if the Guru is unhappy you can go

nowhere,

not even God. Tulsidasji said it beautifully in UttarKand of Ramayan,

"More

Man Prabhu As Bisbaasaa, Raam Se Adhik Raam Kar Daasaa; Raam Sindhu

Ghan

Sajjan Dheera, Chandan Taru Hari Sant Sameera." Means, "I believe

firmly

that the servant of God is more than the God; if the Raam is ocean than

saints are clouds taking the clean water from it (leaving all the

solids and

salts behind) and giving us pure drinking water, if the God is sandal

wood

(a source of fragrance) the saints are the wind to bring its fragrance

to us

so that to enable us to smell it."

Therefore, we must first seek a saint who can show us the path, the way

God. The path of love, devotion and service is the proven, simple and

easy

to follow to know God, the spirit.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Man must actualize his divine nature

Mon, 23 Nov 1998 15:55:30 -0500

{{Man is different from the other forms of life in that he alone is

endowed

with the faculty of discrimination which must be applied to good

purpose.

But if one misuses this power for selfish ends or leads a life of

excess by

succumbing to one's baser instincts and desires then the very purpose

human birth is defeated. There is every possibility of being reborn in

the

next birth not as a human being but in lower orders of life}} (1).

This reveals that the course of evolution of the bonded soul need not

always

be in the ascending order and it is one's deeds - good and bad - which

determine birth. The very fact that one has been blessed with human

birth

should make one responsible and utilize it for realizing higher ends.

Since man lives in a society his actions affect others also which is

the

reason that social and moral codes have been evolved in the interest of

both

the individual and the society. So it becomes apparent that one cannot

pursue one's interest to the detriment of others in society. The values

that

have to be nurtured to ensure the welfare of all, besides creating a

healthy

society promote the spiritual growth of the individual who follows

them.

It is not one's status, birth, affluence or other worldly attainments

which

make a person noble but his humane qualities. If Rama's name has become

immortal, it is not out of adulation as He was the incarnation of the

Supreme Being, but due to the fact of His singular qualities of head

and

heart. The Lord in this incarnation set an example for man about how he

should conduct himself in life.

It is said that the Lord deigned to be born as a human being in order

that

man could ascend to the level of the Divine. The Supreme Being

incarnated as

the son of Dasaratha with one of the specific purpose, which was to

destroy

Ravana who had with his tyrannical ways let loose a reign of terror.

Though

it was an act of grace of the Lord towards humanity, the choice of His

parents was due to the noble qualities of Dasaratha and Kausalya.

In answer to Kausalya's prayer the Lord Himself took birth as her son

and

{{the Ramayana which depicts His life is hailed as the Vedas itself}}

(2).

The first syllable of every thousandth verse in the Ramayana which has

24000

verses, begins with the successive syllables of the Gayatri mantra

which has

24 syllables. The opening verse which is in the form of a question

raised by

Valmiki to Narada about who embodied in him all the virtues, highlights

the

purpose of the Lord's incarnation as a human being. (Monday, November

23,

1998)

***************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Man is not an animal, or any other form of life. He has all animal

instincts, senses and physical body organs like animals do, but only

man has

intellect, wisdom and ego. Only due to these important qualities man

FREE to do Karma -good or bad, as determined by his intellect and

wisdom.

At the same time, even man is also bound to bear the fruits of his past

Karma. All the rest lives are compelled to do those actions which they

because they are dictated by their past Karma during one or more of the

past

life as man. These lives are not free to do Karma. Hence, if a man

does

good Karma he will get a "Devayoni" -a higher bonded life form; and if

does bad Karma he will get "PashuYoni" -an animal bonded life form.

Only

man through his intellect and wisdom can choose to know God, learn

about Him

(the spiritual knowledge), realize his own self, and lit the fire of

wisdom

in himself so that he can burn all his Karma in it and be free of

rebirth.

Alternatively, if he can not do that easily, he can offer (throw) all

his

Karma in some body's burning fire of wisdom and still get the same

result.

That is what Krishna told to Arjuna in Gita, "Do your duty and offer

all

your Karma to me. Do not expect the result of your Karma, else you

will not

be even able to perform your duty perfectly."

(2) The Ramayan -the human body; to know God in this human body, in

this

life itself, is the fulfillment of one's aim or goal in life. Veda,

means

to know. To know what? The God. While we are living if we can know

God

then we have accomplished our goal. Of course, as is usually known,

Ramayan, Gita, and Vedas, are scriptural books also written and

commented by

many authors.

THE IMPORTANT THING IS TO KNOW THE LORD IN THIS LIFE ITSELF (While we

can.

Dead man can't). Death is not the solution of problem in knowing God

and it

is not the end of the soul's journey either. Yes, it does mark the end

the form, the body. When the end of the "Sva" (means, I, self) is

accomplished the real peace and bliss follows, as said, "Svaantaaya

Sukhaaya.

With best wishes

Sincerely

Ds +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Cultivate devotion

Sat, 21 Nov 1998 17:20:02 -0500

{{Cultivate devotion from young age}} (1)

The Vedas were revealed for the welfare of mankind and though they

contain all the necessary guidelines for leading a righteous life, the

Lord has out of compassion incarnated from time to time to

re-establish righteousness, whenever there has been a decadence to

protect the pious and destroy the wicked. Of them, His manifestation

as Krishna assumes great significance as this incarnation is hailed as

a complete manifestation of the Supreme Being.

The Bhagavata Purana and the Mahabharata which contains the Bhagavad

Gita, both written by Veda Vyasa, recount His glorious deeds in this

incarnation. The Gita which is the teaching of Lord Krishna to Arjuna

is hailed as the very essence of the Upanishads. A doubt may arise

{{why the Lord taught this to Arjuna and not to the other Pandavas and

the reason for elucidating spiritual knowledge in the battlefield.

Arjuna represents the ideal human being to whom the scriptural

teachings are intended and the battlefield is akin to worldly life.

Contrary to the common notion that the spiritual goal is antithetical

to worldly life and that it is meant for a few, it is the birthright

of every human being and human birth is an opportunity given to

realize this end.

The Lord's teachings in the Gita are intended for the entire humanity.

The majority of people cannot retire from worldly life to pursue the

spiritual goal and thus it becomes imperative that one has to start

this quest and do all that is essential to progress spiritually amid

worldly pre-occupations }} (2).

The Bhagavata Purana underscored {{the fact that one cannot afford to

postpone spiritual quest in life. King Pareekshit retired to the

forest with the intention of listening to the Lord's glories from the

sages when he was cursed to die. The situation in the Purana for

relating the Lord's glory - that of impending death - portrays the

reality of the human situation.

Life is ephemeral and one has to make the best of every moment granted

to one to realize the spiritual goal. Though one confronts death in

day-to-day life, it is ironical that one does not relate oneself to

its certitude and in the process the spiritual quest is postponed to

the last stage of life. The Yakshaprasna in the Mahabharata posits

this paradox as the greatest of all wonders.

Great devotees have pointed out that one must cultivate devotion early

in life and chant His names and glory always as it is not possible to

remember the Lord when the end is near}} (1). The Gita reiterates the

same idea and that a devotee must remember Him in all his

undertakings. (Saturday, November 21, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) There is no young age or old age. The age is of the body. The

spirit is ageless, it does neither die nor is born. Therefore, the

"jeev" remembers Lord's Word from day one of the conception but at and

after birth gets confused due to illusion. It starts leaving

remembering Lord's Word and attachment with the worldly things,

relations, and material, physical, perishable world starts building

and strengthening. This keeps going until his eagerness to know his

own self, the Truth, his own identity (who he is? whether he is body

or spirit?) grows, gradually intensifies and he yearns for knowing the

Truth. Then by the blessing of God he finds some one -a neighbor, a

school or college friend, a coworker, a fellow passenger in the train,

airplane or bus etc., one of the parent, relative, or anyone, who has

had such yearning and who has found someone higher up in the ladder, a

free God realized person. If he can confide, trust and develop

devotion in this person to satisfy his yearnings and fulfill his aim

and purpose of getting this human life, then he realizes that

establishment of his goal to know the Truth and God is the only right

thing; and with the ceaseless blessings of this person -call him Guru,

Satguru, Guide, Adviser, God, the father, the mother, the brother, the

friend, the true knowledge, the true wealth, the deity of all deities,

the true thing in everything, its accomplishment appears near. There

is no age for this. The earlier the better. Dhruva has realized at 6

years age, the Prahlad at 15 years, while Pareekshit towards the end

of his life close to death. But postponement of this mission will

only keep him from obtaining the Truth, the knowledge and bliss.

(2) There are billions of people in this world, while everyone of

them has a birth right to know their own self, the Truth, only a few

select know it. The reason is simple, they all are at different

levels of zeal to know the Truth. If the Truth is told to everyone,

first, everyone can not understand it due to their different

environment and ability; second, if the recipient is not ready to

receive it, it also goes unused unless the donor has an infinite

capacity. It is well known that experienced farmer only sow seeds in

well tilled, fertile soil. If the soil is not prepared well it

further becomes harder and harder to prepare and also looses its

capacity to receive seeds and grow. Hence, Krishna did not tell

anyone else but told only to Arjuna who asked with all humility,

sincerity and an honest zeal to know the best, the Truth, the God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The Self, eternal in nature

Fri, 20 Nov 1998 14:31:14 -0500

{{The Self, eternal in nature}} (1)

{{Man's true nature is blissful}} (2) but it is not always reflected in

his

worldly interactions as he experiences sorrows also. To understand the

reason for this requires an appreciation of his make-up. Generally a

person

identifies himself with the body-mind-intellect and the spiritual Self

gets

relegated to the background. This is due to ignorance which in turn

results

in misapprehension of the reality.

An analysis of the states of human awareness shows that there is an

underlying consciousness which functions through all {{the three states

waking, dream and sleep}} (3). The experience that one slept well,

about

which one becomes aware after waking up, will not be possible if there

is no

underlying consciousness. Further, it becomes apparent from this same

experience that consciousness cannot be the quality of the mind, as the

mind

which ceases to function in the state of sleep, registers the fact of

sleeping peacefully after getting up. So it becomes clear that the

locus of

consciousness is the Self (Atman) which is eternal and blissful.

From this it is clear that man's sorrows are due to ignorance of his

true

spiritual nature. The sense of identification, the feeling of "I" is

always

related to the body-mind-intellect personality. Only a realized person

who

gets an insight into his true spiritual nature is able to overcome

ignorance

and the sense of ego.

It is said that Lord Krishna taught this important truth right at the

outset

in the Bhagavad Gita. Arjuna threw down his arms refusing to fight just

when

the war was about to commence after beholding his kith and kin, as he

felt

that he would be responsible for their death in the battle. To remove

his

ignorance the Lord pointed out to him that the Self (Atman) was

indestructible and never ceased to be.

The body is subject to the flux of time as it undergoes the changes of

childhood, youth and old age and eventual death. A wise person who

observes

this fact does not grieve over death. Since the Self is eternal, when

the

body ceases to be it has to be reborn till it is liberated from

transmigration.

From the ultimate standpoint every being is characterized by {{five

aspects

- existence, knowledge and enjoyment of objects and also name and

form}}

(4). When name and form which are the characteristics of the body

cease, it

does so only in that particular form and hence it has to acquire

another

name and form. This explains the existential realities of birth and

death as

corollaries of creation. {{This truth can be realized only through

spiritual

knowledge}} 5). (Friday, November 20, 1998)

*******************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The self, soul, spirit, God, Truth are all names of ONE reality,

which

is not destroyed, rather which does not change with time; actually

which is

beyond Time "Kaal" hence it is immortal, eternal, without the beginning

and

end.

(2) This is the true nature of man. Man is not a body, he is a soul,

spirit. When man realizes this he dwells in a state of bliss -the

state of

eternal joy, or happiness, the never ending happiness. That is why

self

realization is so important and essential because without it man can

not get

lasting peace and happiness -the bliss.

(3) In each of these states the spirit lies in the human body at

different

places in the body itself. In sleep it lies closest to God or Brahma,

hence

we relishes the most and feel good and fresh, although sleep is due to

"Tamo-gun", as against "Rajo-gun" in dream and "Sato-gun" in awakened

state.

The origin of life itself is due to "Tamo-gun" -the science document it

that

the darkness and moisture are two essential ingradients for formation

life. All inquisitive and anxious students of spiritual knowledge want

be away from all these three "gunas" and three states of life in order

realize God, because God is beyond these gunas and states.

(4) The existence "Sat", knowledge "Chit", and enjoyment "Anand" or

bliss,

are three meta-physical aspects of a human being, where as the name and

from

are the physical aspects. Name is given to a body which has a form.

Thus

when the form is seen the name is remembered and uttering name the form

comes to mind. Such as calling a cup the shape of the cup is

visualized and

seeing the shape or form of a cup its name is remembered. The spirit

beyond these five aspects and it is due to spirit that a human being

has

these five aspects. The spirit embodies a form, a name and is "Sat,

Chit,

Anand."

(5) True. Therefore, the bliss -the everlasting happiness, is

accomplished

only through the spiritual knowledge. This Truth can be realized only

when

we develop a zeal in us to meet a bonafide spiritual master. It is

just

like we experience about America only after we come here and visit this

place. No amount of description or reading books and books about

America can

give us that experience. It is well known that "A picture is worth

thousand

words and a field visit is worth thousands of pictures." Actually, one

can

not possibly take all the pictures of the nature, in spite of having

many

films available to him, of what all one can see out in the nature. Had

been so, everybody would have just got books and pictures and nature

would

not exist at all. God does exist, only those can see who have been out

there in His vicinity, no amount of reading scriptures and talking or

listening sermons can help. The only help this all can do is to awake

sleeping giant.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Dedicate all actions to the Lord

Wed, 18 Nov 1998 11:55:18 -0500

The path of action (Karma yoga) prescribed in the

Bhagavad Gita can be practiced at three levels. The first approach is

based

on the fact that man cannot refrain from action and hence it is

desirable to

follow the scriptural guidelines so that he does not deviate from

righteous

conduct in going about his daily life. Hence it can be adopted as God's

teaching when He

incarnated as Krishna.

The second approach would be to consider the path of action as worship

God with the understanding that it is obligatory to discharge one's

duties

in life and thus utilize this method to evolve spiritually. This

attitude

enables one to lead a holistic life thereby spirituous mundane

actions.

Lord Krishna after touching on these two aspects then points out the

third

angle - the spiritual aspect to Karma yoga.

This dimension can be appreciated and followed only by {{a seeker of

liberation (Moksha)}} (1). Since knowledge of the Self alone can dispel

ignorance which is the cause of bondage, the path of action in the case

one who practices it as a means to Moksha, helps in purifying the mind

its baser qualities like desires, anger, jealousy, greed etc. Only a

mind

which is rid of these tendencies can intuit the nature of the Self. The

relevance of purificatory rites (Samskaras) prescribed in the

scriptures can

be appreciated from this. They are intended to purify the mind.

Thus the path of action enables one to graduate to the path of

knowledge

(Jnana yoga). Though worldly success is measured in terms of material

prosperity and Karma yoga is capable of giving both material and

spiritual

benefits, a spiritual aspirant is not interested in material ends and

pursues it only with the intention of realizing the

higher end. The seeker of liberation might derive material benefit

also in

the process, but he remained unaffected by it, conscious always about

his

primary goal.

It is said in the spiritual tradition while comparing the efficacy of

the

different means to liberation, that there is no failure in the practice

Karma yoga. Whether there is material reward or not, the practitioner

certainly derives spiritual benefit.

Lord Krishna also points out in this context that when man accepts the

fruit

of his actions as God's grace (prasada) he is absolved of all sins.

When

anything is enjoyed in life as one's due it becomes binding, but when

the

same is accepted after consecrating it to God, it will not result in

further

bondage. (Wednesday, November 18, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Wise men who seek service to God with Love and Devotion do not

care for liberation. The liberation is assured in devotion without

even expectation. In Ramayan it is said, "Ram Bhajat Soee Mukuti

Gosaaeen,

Anaichhit Aavat Bariaaee; Jimi Thal Binu Jal Rahi Na Sakaaee, Koti

Bhaateen

Kou Kare Upaaee." Means, "With remembering God the liberation follows

without having any desire for; just like without earth water can not

remain,

even if one can try million ways." Also it further says, "Tatha Mochha

Sukh

Sunu Khagaraaee, Rahi Na Sakai Hari Bhagati Bihaaee; As Bichaaree Hari

Bhagat Sayaane, Mukti Niraadar Bhagati Lubhaane." Means, "And the

pleasures

of liberation, O' Garud (Kaagbhusundi is saying), can not be sustained

without devotion to God; therefore, the wise devotees of God discard

liberation in favor of devotion (Love and service) only." This is just

some one aims to graduate from High school as against some one aims to

graduate from doctorate. High school, baccalurate, graduate or masters

are

all automatically usually included in Ph. D. Similarly, the liberation

automatically included in devotion. And without devotion even

liberation

can not be retained, just like any high school graduate trying to sit

in a

Ph. D. class neither gets to learn Ph. D. nor they can even retain

(being

not in touch) high school stuff. However, in spiritual sciences one

does

not need any literacy at all. Mohammed, Meera, etc. are burning

evidence to

this fact.

When we are devoted to God we offer everything, we get, to the Lord and

then

accept it from Him as His grace or gift. We offer the best to God. If

know or see a slightest fault in anything, we do not offer that to God.

However, if we have already offered to God something which we know is

the

best, without any negative or bad thing in it, then we accept that as a

grace of God even if we later find that there was something wrong in

it.

God takes care of His devotees. When we dedicate all our actions (good

bad) to God, we become free of reaping the fruits (good or bad) or

results

of these actions. That is simple liberation. However, the emotions

with

which we develop love and devotion for God takes us a step forward

closer to

God. Hence, is the importance of Love, devotion and service to God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Remember God in daily life

Tue, 17 Nov 1998 11:58:57 -0500

{{Remember God in daily life}} (1)

Life in the world can become worship of God by regulating one's actions

according to the path of action (Karma yoga) as described in the

Bhagavad

Gita. It is important to understand that the scriptures do not belittle

man's material pursuits and aspirations and they have accorded them

their

right due.

The scheme of the four ends of human life (Purusharathas) has been

devised

by the sages. When the action one performs, whether physical, mental or

intellectual, is oriented to serve others, it becomes worship of God.

Karma

yoga is a two-in-one path because it is possible to derive both

material and

spiritual ends according to one's preference. If one seeks material

benefits

then the path is just a means to lead a righteous life in the world;

whereas, when it is pursued with liberation as the goal, it purifies

the

mind of the spiritual aspirant and leads him on to the path of wisdom.

It is said that, when the different deities were worshipped by

following the

path of action they bestowed on man all that was necessary to lead a

fulfilled life. Life lived according to the scriptural guidelines does

not

exploit nature because man then becomes aware that he is a part of the

divine scheme. A righteous

life will not upset the rhythm in nature. Only when people live in

harmony

with nature without exploiting it to satiate their greed can life be

sustained on the Earth. Likewise, a society will be healthy only when

people

are able to follow the ethical and spiritual values fearlessly.

Remembering

God while performing all actions is the acknowledgment of the fact that

the

Lord is the bestower of results. A doubt may arise why when an action

itself is capable of producing result, one should acknowledge God as

the

bestower of the result. The Gita points out that it is due to the

working of

the laws of nature that man is able to reap the result of his action

and

these laws are inbuilt into the creation by God. Man through his

ingenuity

is able to invent new technology because the possibility is there in

nature

and he only discovers the natural laws and applies them with his skill.

The

Gita draws man's attention to this fact so that he will remember the

Lord

whenever he taps a law to his advantage. Thus it is incumbent on one

remember God while enjoying anything because it is He who has made it

possible. In other cultures, life is divided into the secular and the

sacred, but according to Hindu culture

there is no such dichotomy. The Gita's path of action shows how man can

make his life sublime by orienting all actions to God. (Tuesday,

November

17, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) God must be remembered with every breath. Daily life is nothing

but a

series of numerous breaths -precisely an average 21,600 per day. And

each

individual has a fixed number (of course unknown to most) of total

breaths

in his or her life. That is why sages and saints of truth have

emphasized

to remember God's Word with every breath. Else it will be an utter

lost of

oneself without knowing his own self. But, Alas, one could do it

wihtout

knowing who, how, when, why to remember etc. questions. Students of

spiritually know anwers to these questions from a saint who really

knows it.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

__ Evolution theory and Avataras

Monday, November 16, 1998

{{Evolution theory and Avataras}} (1)

Among the several distinguishing characteristics of a sincere devotee,

who

carries out his religious obligations as directed by the scriptures

with

zeal uninterruptedly, is the agony he experiences when there is a break

his service to God. This is because, he is constantly in communion with

the

Almighty when he conducts worship, studies scriptural literature and

meditates. Saints have, in their hymns, pleaded with God not to leave

them

even for a split second as that would only plunge them in grief, as

they

would not be able to hear the separation.

One of the examples cited in sacred texts about this attitude of an

ardent

devotee is the fish which is happy in water, struggles when it is taken

out

of it, even for a very brief time. Likewise, the cobra which is

believed

(only) to carry a

gem on its hood, will die when the precious jewel is removed or thrown

out.

"A fish may rather survive even without water and the serpent may drag

on a

miserable and wretched existence without the gem in its head, but I

cannot

live without Rama,'' was the genuine appeal of Emperor Dasaratha before

Kaikeyi, who had put forth two requests. Initially, he thought she was

jesting or was

angry but when she blazed up like the fire on which had fallen an

oblation

of clarified butter he was stunned. {{The Ram-charita- Manas}} (2)

refers to

the

ultimatum given by the queen, "If Rama does not retire to the woods

assuming

the garb of a saint as soon as the day breaks, death for me and

ill-repute

for you will be the result. Bear this in mind.''

The episodes in the version of the Ramayana by Tulsidas trace the

evolution

theory as the incarnations of the Supreme Being spell out a devotee's

behavior. The latter cannot brook being kept away from God as the

examples

of the

fish and cobra show. The manifestation as a tortoise reveals how, even

as it

withdraws its limbs when necessity arises, man should control his

senses

and remain unprovoked and immune to criticisms. It is not enough for a

person to merely worship God once or twice a day but one should

remember God

all the time. Even as the wild boar digs the earth deeply, one should

try to

extract wise lessons from happenings in the world. The Narasimha

Avatara

brings

out that God is everywhere and that one cannot indulge in misdeeds

presuming that no one witnesses Him. As Vamana, God indicates the

necessity for giving charity. For causes concerning the Divine, one

should

not hesitate in donating whatever possible.Parasurama represents anger,

Rama

stands for righteous conduct and an ideal man and Krishna, for His

superhuman powers and for delivering a glorious sermon to mankind.

(Monday,

November 16, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) As far as incarnations of God are concerned, there have been many

incarnations through out the history of His creation or universes. The

various incarnations and their order follows closely with the evolution

theory, interested scholars have found it and can find it. However, how

it going to help me understand God? What has happened is of no much

relevance to us except to take note of the fact and learn from it,

however,

what is currently happening in this time and space is of importance to

because it affects us. We can find someone who knows God and we can

then

know Him in this life. Otherwise, Kabira, Nanak, Meera, Rama, Krishna,

Mratanga, Vashishtha, Ramanandji, Ram Krishna Pramhans, Totapuriji,

Bhardwajji, Ved Vyasji, Tulsi, Surdasji, Jesus Christ, Mohammed,

BahaUllaha,

Shabari, etc., (the list is never ending) did know Him, but when they

were

here we were not here and now when we are here they are not. Only a

living

spiritual master of our time, may that be Asharamji, Pandyaji, Satya

Saibabaji, Radhaswamiji's inheritance of Agra or Bias, Pandurangji,

Muraaribapuji, Mataji, or any other saint, who are known or not known

to the

mass media, could only help us to the extent s/he him/her self knows

the

supreme personality of God.

(2) The Ram-Charit-Manas, as is commonly known, is a book called

Ramayan, but what it really means is that in our own "Manas" i.e., in

our own self (mind, heart, body etc.) we should have the "charit" or

character of "Ram" or God.

Of all the manifestations of God, the human form is with the most or

major "ansh" or fraction of God. Each and every human (men, women

and children) has all the characteristics or qualities of God but not

in whole and also most of those characteristics or qualities are

dormant. In Ramayan, it is said, "Ishwar Ansh Jeev Avinaashi, ....."

What it means is, "The soul or the jeev is Truth, never destroyed, and

is a fraction of God." Thus, the man only can achieve God or know Him

through the power inherent in him; and no other species of life,

including deities or "devatas" can accomplish this task of knowing

that supreme personality -Ram. The Ram which dwells in everyone

-"Ramati so Ram." That is Ram-charit-manas. It can be experienced

(or read) right in our own body and the whole manifestation of God

-the entire universe (rather universes) can be seen right in this body

in a microcosmic form. It is said in Vedas, "Yo Brahmaande So Pinde,"

means, "whatever is outside is inside -within this physical body", in

which one has to see the Truth or God or spirit. Only way to know

this is when the God Himself blesses us the interest to know Him.

However, much depends upon our will to know Him because it is only

reciprocatory. Then we find a preceptor who knows Him and who can

guide us to known Him. He is familiar with the roads and streets of

the Lord's town and the plan of His house. Hence, O' wise people seek

a citizen of His country to sponsor you if you yearn to be a citizen

of His country and who Lord or King would not love His citizens.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Reaching God through music

Mon, 16 Nov 1998 08:29:34 -0500

{{Reaching God through music}} (1)

The message of God, the most essential feature of which is His

readiness to welcome into His fold anyone who totally depends on His

protection, has been transmitted to people in many ways. The

intellectuals study the scriptures and enjoy God's several benign

qualities, particularly His mercy. Laymen have been provided with

simple steps like visits to temples, bathing in holy rivers and

chanting God's names. Some others are shown the path of meditation and

they

attend to the exposition of sacred texts. The entire emphasis, in all

these

prescriptions, is that man should cultivate detachment, and reach the

Divine

kingdom, never to be born again. The tradition of {{"Bhajan" where even

common man can join the mass prayers is one of the easy methods to

enjoy

God's presence}} (2). (Monday, November 16, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The music we hear, through our physical ears and senses through

our mind, is normally not the music through which we can reach God.

However, this may be the first essential step to develop an interest

towards

knowing the real music through which only we can reach God. Also, once

are interested in God we can appreciate and

admire this music and enjoy it. The spiritual music is different. It

is heard eternally, internally, not externally through our ears. It

flows down from the spirit -which is also known as "Paraa Vaani." It

is the sound of all celestial music which will take us closer to God

and eventually realize God. Actually, even the physical sound

coming out of our mouth, known as "Baikhari Vaani" originates from

Paraa

which through a series of transformation through Pashayanti and

Madhyamaa

becomes Baikhari. The celestial cosmic music or real music is Paraa

Vaani

which we hear inside and not through the media of air, ears, etc.

This is

what is known as hearing without ears, similar to seeing without eyes,

walking without feet. This only comes by the grace and blessings of

God, as

said, "Jaanki Kripaa Pangu Giri Lange, Andhe Ko Sab Kachhu Darsaaee;

Baharaa

Sune, Mook Hoee Vaachaal, ....." Means, "By His grace and blessing the

lame

walks mountains, blind starts seeing everything; the deaf hears and the

dumb

becomes talkative, ....."

(2) The "bhajan" as is commonly known and sung through the human

tongue is not the real bhajan which takes us close to God. This

bhajan only pleases our senses (ears, mind and intellect, some times

ego too) and provide fuel for this fire. However, it helps us to

increase our interest and inquisitiveness to know the real bhajan.

Actually, the body does not do bhajan, and the tongue is definitely

a part of the body. If it would not be so the dead bodies would sing

too. The real bhajan is done by the "jeev" it self. The tatva in the

body closest to jeev is Aakaasha. Since it is not easily

comprehensible, the next tatva of body -air which we breath, is

commonly used to do bhajan until we can leave it and carry bhajan on

through Aakaasha. The later is the stage of trance, only in which we

see the realm of God. Only this bhajan can make us reach God. Many

saints

have said so. Kabira said, "Maalaa To Kar Me Phire, Jeebh Phire Mukha

Maahin; Manavaa To Chahun Disi Phire, Ye To Sumiran Naahin." Means,

"the

rosary moves in the hand, and the tongue moves in the mouth; the mind

wanders in all directions, this is not the bhajan." Kabira further

advises

us and then warns us, "Saansa Saansa Par Naam Le, Ek Bhee Saansa Naa

Khoy;

Kyaa Jaane Is Saansa Kaa, Avaan Hoy Naa Hoy." Means, "Remember God's

Word

with every breath, do not waste any breath; who knows how long this

breath

will continue or when it will stop." Hence, the real bhajan is done by

the

jeeva, which is beyond senses, mind, intellect, wisdom and ego, through

which we get a glimpse of God and ultimately reach Him. However, what

bhajan? How should it be done? When should it be done? Who should do

it? Why

should it be done? These all questions are only answered after one

meets a

saint or satguru (a true spiritual master). A student of Brahma Vidya

spiritual knowledge learns these realities of life and then can

appreciate

and understand this world as it is, if desired. But there can not be

any

student without a teacher, just like there can not be a teacher without

students. Even the mysteries of this chicken and egg situation then

solved

so easily. Hail to the mercy of God who makes this possible.

Therefore, O'

Learned wise men, leave the imitation -the fool's gold, and go for the

Truth, -the real gold, the God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Friday, November 13, 1998 12:40 PM

Anger, chief enemy of mankind

{{Anger, chief enemy of mankind}} (1)

If a question is raised as to who among the human beings can be

categorized

as the "Blessed'', the first place should go to one who keeps anger

under

check. "Fortunate indeed are those truly great souls whose intelligence

keeps anger under control, like a raging fire being put out by water''

are

the words of a great character known for his sagacity, who too once

yielded

to this scourge. Man's deadly and sworn enemy is anger. The havoc that

may

be caused when a person is seized with it cannot be described but it

can be

said that he may indulge in any type of heinous crime. "Burn your anger

before it burns you,'' is the warning given to entire mankind. One

cannot

suppress it, but can sublimate it.

Not that no one can escape its influence but it can be kept under

control by

the display of patience. Even when provoked, a person can keep calm.

Among

the 84 lakhs of God's creations, man alone is endowed with the gift of

the

power of discrimination. He has a body, mind and the thinking faculty.

the intellect warns him of the impending danger arising out of

succumbing to

the evil of anger the mind will rebel at first but it will meekly

submit to

it.

Episodes in our sacred classics refer to the damage caused by anger and

very remarkable dissertation of the impact of this foe has been

included in

the Ramayana. The Lord, in human form also cautions mankind about bad

temper's influence in several references in the Bhagavad Gita. Anger

arises

when desires remain unfulfilled, says this scripture.

It is said that, while surveying the ruin after he had set fire to

Lanka,

Anjaneya drenched his tail by plunging into the sea. Suddenly a fear

seized

him that the flames might have affected Sita also. He was disgusted

with

himself as he reflected about his "outrageous'' deed of reducing Lanka

ashes. An angry man would insult even the saintly with harsh words and

murder even revered elders. In his rage, such a person would not mind

what

he utters, however obnoxious it might be. A man in the grip of the evil

wrath would lose the sense of justice. "He alone is entitled to be

called a

man who ejects anger by patience, as the snake sloughs off its worn-out

skin. I have yielded to a monstrous impulse of burning the city without

giving a thought to Sita. The whole purpose of my search mission has

been

frustrated because of my thoughtless action. What will happen to all my

efforts if by my unwitting act, Sita is lost in the blaze?'' However

there

were good omens indicating that all would be well. He was glad to know

that

Sita remained unaffected by fire. Sita's fidelity made her immune to

the

flames. (Friday, November 13, 1998)

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Anger, in deed, is man's one of the worst enemies. It arises when

our

"Kaam" or desires (Kaamanaaye) are not satisfied. It subdue our

intellect

and our capacity or capability of our thinking faculty or mind, hence,

Indriyaas or sense organs act uncontrolled -as a result beating,

shouting,

biting, anger in voice or vision, etc. ensues. Its result is death,

said, "Jahaan Dayaa Tahaan Dharma Hai, Jahaan Kaam Tahaan Krodha;

Jahaan

Krodha Tahaan Kaal Hai, Jahaan Kshmaa Tahaan Aap." Therefore, wiseman

forgive (which is a godly quality) and do not ravage anger.

Spiritually, it is one of the five "Prakrati" (or properties) of the

"Aakaash" (sky or space) tatva (element), which is present in the human

body

along with air, fire, water, and earth. Thus, it is very subtle and it

can

only be controlled by those who understand "Aakaash" tatva. They are

usually Mahatmas. There are other four "prakratis" of Aakaash. These

are

lust, attachment, greed, and ego. We can now see that all these five

"prakratis" are very difficult to overcome. God is seen only after a

spiritual aspirant or enthusiast overcomes these five prakratis of

aakaash.

This can be done easily by remaining in the company of saintly people

who

has overcome it. By far the most important, a living spiritual master,

who

is free of these vices, and ONE whose blessing can be sought through

service, devotion and love, must be sought. This will germinate in

ourselves the seed for living a life free of lust, anger, attachment,

greed,

and ego, and the vision of God then follows suit.

With best wishes.

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Requisites of an ethical life

Mon, 9 Nov 1998 07:57:58 -0500

The virtuous life has been hailed by the scriptures not only because

they are necessary to maintain the moral order in the world, but also

with the intention of enabling man to progress spiritually. If human

birth is not utilized for what it is intended for i.e., realizing the

goal of liberation, then it is no different from that of other living

beings. Four values have been emphasized in the scriptures as

intrinsic and mandatory to an ethical life.

Speaking {{the truth}} (1) is the most important among them because

all other virtues will be meaningless if one does not adopt this in

life. The guidelines regarding its practice are outlined in the

scriptural texts like the epics and the Puranas, though its importance

is emphasized in the Vedas. That it is not easy to adopt it in life

can be seen when peruses the episodes delineating this virtue, as for

instance, in the case of king Harischandra who underwent untold

suffering as he did not compromise on truth.

Likewise {{the charity}} (1)is another virtue which has been lauded in

most traditions because it concerns the welfare of all in society. As

an individual practice, it hinges on the spiritual merit (Punya) that

accrues to the person who practices it, but as a social value its

significance is all the more important. King Mahabali became immortal

because of his act of charity when the Lord sought alms from him in

disguise. Since human birth is the result of both the merit and the

sins accrued from previous lives, charity is a method recommended for

neutralizing one's sins.

The merit of {{the penance}} (1) can be appreciated only when its

result is seen practically for oneself. That it is capable of

conferring the highest good is highlighted in many scriptural

episodes. {{Penance is of two types - that performed for the sake of

individual benefit and the other for the sake of the welfare of the

entire world}} (2).

It is said that the performance of the daily rituals and austerities

which must be followed according to one's standing in life resulted in

great {{spiritual merit}} (1). There had been a case of {{even a dead

person brought back to life because of a sage's spiritual power, which

was possible because of his austere life}} (3).

The life of the Almighty when He assumed the human form during His

incarnation as Rama testifies to His adherence to all these four

virtues. The Ramayana depicts through the characterization of the

Divine Couple, Rama and Sita, that one must be inspired to cherish

these values even in the wake of sufferings in life. (Monday, November

09, 1998)

***************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Speaking truth is the greatest penance, and those who always

speak truth always has God with them, as said, "Saanch Baraabar Tap

Nahin, Jhutha Baraabar Paap; Jaanke Rdahya Saanch Hain, Taanke Rdahya

Aap." They always say truth in all three stages of life, i.e.,

awakened, dream, and deep sleep. They are beyond all these three

stages and are in Turiya or trance stage. Whatever they speak becomes

truth. This is the single most important virtue one should have for

spiritual growth.

Charity is very important, but it is effective only when it is given

to the right person. The recipient, having received it, must be able

to utilize it for spiritual gain otherwise it goes waste. Without

having a preceptor the result of charity is uncertain.

Penance is very important in spiritual progress. Here again, without

a preceptor penance goes meaningless, as its direction is uncertain

or unknown. The devotion gets stronger with penance and remembering

God's word becomes more easier and frequent.

Spiritual merit is by far the most important of all these four virtues

for a spiritual life. Ethical life automatically ensues from it.

Spiritual merits can not be obtained until a saint or sage having

those blesses us.

(2) Anything, penance or otherwise, done for individual benefit is

selfish, or NO penance. Penance done for the benefit or welfare of

the entire world is the real penance. But one can benefit others only

after one is benefited first. The beggars are not choosers or givers

. Only the Lord can give. One who knows the spirit can only make

some one known. Hence, seekers of the truth must seek a knower of the

Truth.

(3) It is true that the blessings of saint can do what can not be

done by any, sometimes even by God. It is said, "Jo Kaam Davaa Bhee

Kar Na Sake, Vo Kaam Duaa Se Hotaa Hai; Jab Murshid Kaamil Miltaa Hai,

To Baat Khuda Se Hotaa Hai." Means, "The work which medicine can not

do is done by the blessing of a Saint; when one gets a true living

spiritual master one talks with God itself." Therefore, O leaned man,

why not seeketh the spiritual seed, the (spiritual) plant or tree is

abound to grow sooner or later. The salvation is assured, the glory

of God is sung and the mysteries of this world are unfolded. Nothing

more than remains to know. The knower, the knowee and knowledge all

three becomes ONE. Call it anything in any language, form or shape.

With best wishes.

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Discharge of duties obligatory

Sat, 7 Nov 1998 08:10:05 -0500

{{Discharge of duties obligatory}} (1)

The path of Self-surrender (Saranagati) is recommended {{as an

alternative}} (2) to the path of devotion (Bhakti yoga) for realizing

the goal of liberation. This method has been advocated by the

preceptors of the tradition on the basis of the scriptures, especially

the Bhagavad Gita.

The basic idea underlying the concept of surrender is the transfer of

the responsibility of one's spiritual progress from oneself to the

Lord. The concluding teaching of Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita is

the path of surrender according to this tradition. So it is apparent

that Saranagati is resorted to when one is unable to pursue the path

of devotion, after which it becomes incumbent on the Almighty to grant

liberation to the Saranagat.

Is the path of Self-surrender easy to adopt as it appears to be?

Saranagati which is a means to liberation on a par with Bhakti yoga

with regard to efficacy, is less stringent to practice and this is the

reason for its appeal and suitability to one and all.

But, the preceptors have been quick to point out in their works, which

are intended for the followers, that after performance of Saranagati

life must be oriented to God. It is not as if a spiritual aspirant can

be absolved of all his transgressions of scriptural prescriptions

because he has surrendered to God.

It is said, regulation of lifestyle according to the scriptural norms

was obligatory for a Sarnagat even after surrendering to God. The

manner in which his life must be regulated has been elaborately

treated by the preceptors. They have made it clear that he must

continue to perform his duties according to his station in life and

not give up on them.

While a spiritual aspirant performs the recommended duties initially

with the objective of liberation, after surrendering to God, he

continues to perform them without expectation of result, surrendering

the fruit of his actions to God. The dispassion towards worldly

pleasures and gains, automatically becomes transformed into loving

devotion and longing for God.

By constantly meditating on the Lord's auspicious traits it is

possible to wean the mind away from worldly influences. The continued

performance of the daily obligatory duties helps to reinforce

spiritual life. Life surrendered to God is at once a means to

liberation from rebirths and the end in itself. (Saturday, November

07, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Discharge of duties is obligatory, but one must klnow what are his

duties? The jeev or life has only ONE foremost duty and that is to

know its (our) real nature, the self, the spirit or God. Because,

duties towards all others -such as friend, spouse, children, etc. are

also due to and until the presence of that self in them, else they are

dead and there remains no duties to discharge.

(2) The self-surrender is NOT an alternative to devotion, it is an

integral part of the devotion. One can not be devoted to God without

surrendering oneself totally to God. We see this in our daily worldly

life. A Spouse who really is devoted to her husband completely

surrenders herself in order to receive the nectare of life, similarly

children surrender themselves to teachers or parents to learn new

things only when they are devoted to learn, else the teacher tells the

same thing to all children yet only few devoted one get A's rest get

D's, C's and B's or fail. Hence total unconditional surrender and

devotion or LOVE are different names of the same thing towards GOD

-the Sargun God, who can impart and initiate that emotion in any

sincere devotee.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

A perennial source of inspiration

Fri, 6 Nov 1998 12:10:50 -0500

Hinduism (Sanatana dharma) derives its name from the very fact that it

does

not have an origin in point of time and its teachings are eternally

valid.

The name has a broader connotation than just a religion and hence it is

be understood more as a way of life. This religion and ethos are based

the Vedas which are the revealed scriptural authority.

The scriptural texts based on the Vedas posit that the Supreme Being

manifests in this world whenever righteousness is on the wane to re-

establish it. Among the incarnations of the Almighty, the ones in which

assumed the human form are very important to mankind in that He taught

and

showed by example the manner in which the scriptural teachings have to

followed.

{{The Ramayana of Valmiki is a perennial source of inspiration for man

emulate, as the sage depicts Rama as an ideal human being without

highlighting His divine nature, except in a few instances. This makes

it all

the more appealing to those who take recourse to the Ramayana as a

guide on

human conduct. The depiction of Rama's sterling qualities right at the

outset was significant in that the sage had indicated that the Almighty

assumed the human form to enable man to ascend to the level of the

Divine}}

(1).

In the context of narrating Dasaratha's decision to crown Rama as his

successor to the throne of Ayodhya, the focus is on Rama's noble

qualities.

As the king, Dasaratha had the power to unilaterally decide on the

succession. But he convened an assembly of all the rulers of small

territories, to seek their opinion in the matter.

The decision to crown Rama was unanimous and the words of approval so

overwhelming that Dasaratha wondered whether there was something wrong

with

his rule. That power and pelf should come unsought to a deserving

person and

that one should not seek it is underscored in this episode. The

Ramayana

notes, ``Mother Earth (herself) sought for her protector the aforesaid

prince, who was endowed with such (a lofty) character, was possessed of

valor that could not be subdued and who vied with the guardians of the

spheres in might and splendor.''

This context is one of the instances where Valmiki has drawn attention

Rama's divine nature to indicate that He had incarnated to wipe out

evil.

``Entreated by the gods, seeking the destruction of the haughty Ravana,

the

eternal Lord Vishnu was born on the mortal plane as Sri Rama.''

(Friday,

November 06, 1998)

****************************************************************************

****

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) It is said that sage Valmiki first wrote the Ramayan before the

birth of

Rama. That means the sage has made a forecast, which usually no sage

does,

i.e. tells the future. In reality, Valmiki has written about his own

Raam

-"Ramati-So-Raam," when it manifested in Naarad. The sage Valmiki has

told

his own spiritual experience in his own Ramayan in which he narrated

the

glory of his Raam -Naarad. Otherwise, in "Treta-Yug" (when Rama was

born,

the Valmiki must have been born before Him and) there was nothing

available

to write on. The Vedas and Valmiki Ramayan must have been conveyed

orally

from generation to generation until about 5-6000 years ago when

Vedvyasji

and another Valmiki must have written in what is known as Vedas and

Valmiki

Ramayan in present day form. The point is that a seeker of Truth must

seek

God -his own self, or spirit, in his own body in this life itself.

That

will be the mission accomplished of getting human birth, otherwise all

lives

are born, live and leave.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Promoter of universal brotherhood

Thu, 5 Nov 1998 12:18:02 -0500

Promoter of universal brotherhood

"Mankind's religious future may be obscure; yet one thing can be

foreseen:

{{the living higher religions}} (1) are going to influence each other

than ever before, in these days of increasing communication between all

parts of the world and all branches of the human race. In this coming

religious debate, the Sikh religion and its scripture the Adi Granth

Sahib

ji will have something of special value to say to the rest of the

world.''

Thus wrote a great historian about the role of Sikhism founded by Guru

Nanak.

The sacred hymns of the saint and reformer Guru Nanak, are several and

all

are embodied in the holy Sikh scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, which

worshipped by the Sikhs as the living embodiment of their 10 Gurus. The

Granth Sahib was compiled by the fifth apostle. The prayer of the Sikhs

offered twice daily ends with these words, "By the grace of Nanak, may

the

spirit ascend to greater heights; may general weal descend on all

creations

by God's grace.'' This truly conveys the essence of the Guru's

teachings.

At the time when Guru Nanak was born (1469 A.D.) the society was ridden

with

outmoded ritualistic and superstitious practices, innumerable caste

regulations and conventions, dividing people.

He gave up his worldly pursuits to take to preaching of {{his spiritual

message of love}} (2) and peace, oneness of God, brotherhood of man and

tolerance. He considered all human beings as the offspring of one God

and

therefore brothers. He said that God resided in every human being and

that

{{His holy name}} (3) could be the medium of His adoration.

In the holy city of Mecca, he lay down in the mosque weary and slept

with

his feet towards the shrine (Kaaba). Protesting against the sacrilege

people

shouted at him, but Guru Nanak asked them to turn his feet where God

was not

present. People pondered over this and asked him whether he was a

Muslim or

a Hindu. He said, "Neither, I am only a play thing made of the five

elements

of nature.'' He laid stress on {{the fundamental truth in all

religions}}

(4) and seldom asked anyone to give up his own faith.

Guru Nanak, who did his utmost to bring about unity among all, felt

that his

law-abiding and peaceful followers should be courageous. History

testifies

that the Sikh spiritual leaders never fought except in self-defense,

never

raised the sword in anger, never forgot chivalry while fighting and

looked

to the future with hope and faith instead of despair. Guru Nanak's

message

is universal and is valid at for all times. His teachings can promote

universal brotherhood based on mutual love, respect and understanding

and

foster unity and international peace. (Thursday, November 05, 1998)

**************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) It is said that many religions, like languages, came and gone. A

living

religion of today was a dead religion (or not existed) in past and/or

could

become extinct in future. Jainism and Buddhism were not there before

2500

years ago, Islam and Christianity were not there before 1500 and 2000

years

ago respectively, Sikkhism was given by Guru Nanak 500 years ago, and

so on.

It is an apathy that people consider only the living religions as

higher

religions. Actually, in reality, there is no higher and/or lower

(religions) and there are no so many living or dead religions either.

spirituality, all lives -men (children and women included without

reference)

have soul and there is only ONE religion -that is the religion of

mankind.

Remember, if we are not a good human, we can never be a good Hindu, or

Moslem or whatever. Spiritual meaning of religion is re-unite with

God.

(2) Not only Guru Nanak, but all saints -like Tulsi, Valmiki, etc.,

gave

the message of Love he also inculcated in his devotees so much of

righteousness that eventually gave birth to a so called religion. The

peace

automatically follows after the love is developed. Hence, in spiritual

awakening love has a special, single, major role. However, the love

must

not be confused with the infatuations, attachments, and illusions.

The

real love is only that which makes a meeting with God.

(3) All saints said so. Guru Nanak was a true Guru "Sat-Guru" of that

time.

However, no saint , including Guru Nanak, has openly said His holy

name.

What is His holy Name? Is it Rama, Krishna, Jesus, or Mohammed, etc.?

Spiritually God does reside in every human being and actually God is

that

spirit or soul, which is fully awakened, illumined. It is said, " Ghat

Ghat

Me Meraa Saainaa, Sunaa Ghat Na Koya; Balihaari Vaa Ghat Kee, Jaa Me

Prakat

Hoya." Means, "The God lives in every human being, there is no human

being

without God; however, the importance is of that human being in which it

manifest or who realizes Him." It is said, "Atma So Parmaatmaa" i.e.,

the

spirit or soul is itself God. But only people who know the spirit, see

the

spirit in everybody otherwise most people instead of seeing a live God

them they see the body only. His holy name is a mystery -only unfolded

a Sat-Guru -a true living spiritual master, like Guru Nanak was.

(4) The fundamental truth in all religion is that (they are all there

confuse and divide people, until one understands the truth, then) all

religions are ONE and same. They were all initiated after some saint

messenger of God in their memory because their devotees loved them

immensely. Just like Shahjahan mad Taj Mahal in memory of Mumtaj

Mahal,

where her spirit is worshipped even now in the basement; or Hare

Krishna

devotees made a temple of Prabhupada in his loving memory, devotees and

followers of Guru Nanak made Sikkhism in His memory and after 10th

apostle

they took vows to keep Kachha (lion-cloth), Kadaa (bracelet), Kataar

(dagger), Kanghi (comb), and Kesha (hair) until they drive Britishers

our of

their mother land and it made a distinct Sikh caste or religion. So

the

Truth is hidden in all religions, overridden with rituals, dogmas, and

funny

man made rules, forgetting the spirit -which is in every humans and the

need

to know the true religion -their ownself, the spirit, God.

With best wishes.

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The philosophical part of the scriptures

Wed, 4 Nov 1998 12:14:10 -0500

The authority for the religion and the philosophy of Hinduism (Sanatana

dharma), the Vedas, are revelations and they are eternal in nature.

They do

not have any human authorship and were revealed to the seers who

committed

them to memory. For this reason they are referred to as Sruti. They

were

codified by Sage Veda Vyasa into four - the Rg, Sama, Yajur and the

Atharva

Vedas. All the other scriptural texts are based on the Vedas and have

been

written by different sages only with the purpose of elucidating the

Vedas.

The Vedas are divided into two sections -{{ the Karma kanda which is

the

ritualistic portion and the Jnana kanda which is philosophical}} (1).

The

Upanishads which are in the Jnana kanda are the end of the Vedas and

hence

originally they were referred to as Vedanta (Veda-anta). But, in course

time, Vedanta has come to mean the systems of philosophy that have

developed

based on the Upanishads. Chronologically the Upanishads belong to the

later

Vedic period.

The meaning of the word ``Upanishad'' suggests the method by which the

scriptures were taught. It means ``sitting down near'' i.e.., a group

pupils sitting near a teacher to learn the esoteric doctrines. These

treatises which deal with the Ultimate Reality thus became a name for a

mystery, an esoteric science, which could be communicated only when the

student had the equipment to receive it.

Though the Upanishads do not have human authorship their philosophical

doctrines have traditionally been associated with different sages like

Aruni, Svetaketu, Sandilya, Balaki and Yajnyavalkya, because of their

spiritual stature. The truths which the Upanishads declare were

envisioned

by these sages and not propounded as a result of other means of

knowledge

like sense perception, inference or speculation.

It is said that this sage was revered as the personification of

philosophical wisdom. Though he was a distinguished teacher of the

Yajur

Veda, that he was a master of all the four Vedas can be inferred from

the

fact that his pupil could chant the Sama which is the Rg Veda set to

music.

One proficient in these three is considered learned in all the four as

the

Atharva Veda is based on the other three.

He was the teacher of King Janaka of Videha and the Brhadaranyaka

Upanishad

which forms part of the Sathapatha Brahmana, relates an incident which

happened in the court of the king when the sage's knowledge was put to

test

by the court priest. During the course of the dialogue the sage

clarified

many abstract philosophical truths. (Wednesday, November 04, 1998)

**************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) There are many many mantras of Karma Kand which deals with

everyday

actions -such as sleeping, bathing, waking up, seeing lamp light in the

evening, etc., which we perform as a human. These are all rituals.

They

take a long long time -sometime life time, and the end result is just

fall

short of Mukti or liberation. Similarly there are many mantras of

Jnana

(Gyan) Kand which deals with the philosophical aspects of spirituality.

These also take a long time in understanding and the end result is only

Mukti. Hence, in this age (Kali-Yuga) when the human life s[pan is

short

(100 years) the Bhakti-kand is considered the best. There is only ONE

mantra in it -Love, Devotion and Service, with focus on pure unselfish

love.

The spiritual knowledge is relatively easier to get in a short time

through

Love and Devotion and the Mukti is assured in it. However, the path of

Love

and Devotion and the ONE mantra has to be learned from a preceptor -a

true

living spiritual master or saint.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++=

The seeming paradox of spiritual life

Tue, 3 Nov 1998 12:12:41 -0500

The scriptures attest to the fact that {{the Supreme Being deigns to

manifest in the world from time to time out of His compassion for

humanity

to perform certain specific tasks for the sake of His devotees. But,

this He

does only occasionally and hence the same role is delegated by Him to

the

eternals who appear as mystics and preceptors to steer mankind towards

the

goal of liberation}} (1).

They made it their lives' mission to eschew worldly life and spent

their

time traveling from place to place spreading the message of divine

love.

Like the rain- bearing clouds which shed copious rain on one and all

without

discrimination, these mystics taught the potency of the Divine names

through

Naam sankirtana to everyone.

{{The paradox of spiritual life - that it is not possible to have His

vision

even if one makes oneself eligible for His grace and the Lord graces

His

devotee only when He chooses to - is underscored. It is apparent that

it is

not possible to realize and envision God without a preceptor, without

deep

yearning and efforts to know Him, and without His will}} (2).

(Tuesday,

November 03, 1998)

****************************************************************************

*****

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The former is known as "Nimit Avataar" or specific incarnation

-such as

Rama, Krishna, Narsingha, etc. where as the later is known as "Nitya

Avataar" or constant incarnation -such as saints and preceptors like

Ramakrishna Paramhans, Mohammed, Jesus Christ, Bahaullaha, etc. Note

the

words "the same role", that clearly indicates that there is no much

difference between these two incarnations. It is the Nitya Avataar

that is

more important to humanity because there is not a single time on earth

when

they were not there, where as the "Nimit Avataar" is there for a short

time

only and influences the humanity for a long time by their enormous

power and

acts, all at the will of the "Nitya Avataars" -the saints, the

Brahma-rishis.

(2) This is true, we have no control over Him. He appears to us at His

sweet will, when He chooses to. That does not mean that we can cease

remembering Him or His Naam. Since He can appear any time -sooner or

later,

the devotee has to be first ready for Him at anytime, then just wait

for

Lord's vision. It is simple, like if we keep driving we may not reach

work in time, due to many road blocks, or car trouble, or bad weather,

etc.

but if we don't drive at all and keep sitting at home, it is certain

that we

will never reach there in time. Therefore, a devotee longing for a

spiritual vision shall continue, ceaselessly, to yearn for God and

meditate

and pray for His mercy and vision without expecting any result.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Vedas common to all people

Mon, 2 Nov 1998 12:14:21 -0500

{{Vedas common to all people}} (1)

While it is easy for anyone to offer suggestions to others about the

code of

conduct, problems will arise when they are to be enforced. ``Obey your

parents'', the age-old directive, might have been possible to follow in

previous eras but in the modern context, differences of opinion are

bound to

exist as the attitude and the views of the old people will not be liked

youngsters. The result will be conflicts. But if adopted in life, these

``obiter dicta'', contained in the Vedas, can certainly be implemented

with

benefit.

{{Being God's words, these Vedic commands are intended to do good to

the

people and make them rise to divine level}} (2). A question may be

asked

whether God had parents and was there an opportunity for Him to carry

out

such instructions? As if to prove this, He (Rama -the god) was

``born'', not

in a poor family when circumstances may compel a young man not to

differ

from his parents, but amidst opulence and power. Still, He implicitly

obeyed

His parents and spent 14 years in forest undergoing indescribable

suffering

and sacrificing comforts.

The Vedas are common to all sections of the society and it may be noted

that

though the number of people who were qualified to master them had been

dwindling, yet others held these few pundits in great esteem and

reverence.

{{They prescribe the methods to lead a happy, contented, disciplined

and

ideal life. One who upholds these virtues should also help others in

the

society making them reach the highest ladder and see that their

distress is

removed}} (3).

When God chose to descend on this world to fulfill the promise extended

sages, the four Vedas also took the combined form of the epic,

Ramayana, and

hence this work amplifies the pithy statements in the former. Even

today

when scholars chant the Vedas, those who listen to them will feel that

they

had missed the golden opportunity of learning the same. Even as all

cannot

own cows but can purchase its milk, people who appreciate the efforts

of the

Vedic scholars can give due encouragement to them. {{The Ramayana is

full of

``Mantras'' and is an asset to the world}} (4). The role of destiny is

illustrated therein to point out that what is due for a man will be

received

unasked. If not eligible to get it all his attempts will be futile.

We should try to cultivate in us the 16 outstanding qualities possessed

Rama. Among them are: to be easily accessible, to show compassion, to

friendly, to repay debt of gratitude and to be generous as mentioned in

the

work and these will not be difficult to adopt in one's life. (Monday,

November 02, 1998)

**************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Meaning of Veda is "to know" the Truth, the reality. And everyone

wants

to know the Truth, therefore, Vedas are common to all people, including

Christians, Moslems, Buddhists, etc. Man is "Sat, Chit, Aanand". The

Chit

means knowledge, to known hence, he is always curious to know the

Truth, his

goal is to know Truth and get bliss. If Vedas are considered only

Hindu's

scriptural texts Moslems, Christians, and others will not want it and

it can

not be then common to ALL people.

(2) Vedas are known as God's words. It is said that there were

originally

three Vedas and Saint Ved Vyasji wrote it first time, made four Vedas

out of

three, and also wrote four Up-Vedas. He also wrote Bhagawat Gita -an

Upnishad. Vedas as is known today are the most ancient of written

documents

of Hindu scriptures, supposedly some 4000-6000 years old. However,

humans

existed since some 1.8 million years and the life since 1.8 billion

years.

And God has to exist before all this. Thus Vedas as books though

existed

for last 4 to 6000 years but Vedas -as knowledge of the Truth or God

existed

much before this , since the dawn of the creation, with God -the Aadi

Purush

(the first man). Hence, they are known as God's words. Also all

saints,

like Ved Vyasji, who knew God are just like God, hence also they are

known

as God's words.

(3) Who would not like to live a happy, contented, disciplined, ideal

life?

All men -whether they are Christians, Moslems, Hindus, or Buddhists,

etc.

would want to live a pain-free, happy, healthy, contented life and when

anything -may that be Vedas, Bible, Koran, Ramayan, or Gita, etc.,

prescribes a method to do so (live a happy life), the knowledge of this

method becomes Veda. Once some one knows the trick his or her sole

goal or

purpose in life is to make others known -that is "Parmaaratha", the

service

to humanity.

(4) So are Vedas, Koran, Bible, Buddha or Jain Granths, etc. full of

mantras

and are assets to the world. Where does one go from all these Mantras?

Confused, bewildered, one spends his or her whole life getting no

where,

until they find ONE God and ONE mantra. It is said, "Tantra Mantra Sab

Jhutha Hai, Mat Koee Bhramo Sansaar; Saar Sabad Jaane Bina, Koee Na

Utaare

Paar", means, "Al the tricks and mantras are false, O worldly man,

don't you

confuse in this false world; without knowing the WORD of God, no body

can

provide salvation." Hence, one should know the WORD -one mantra, from

someone -a real living spiritual master (saint or sadhu) who knows it

and

then experience the WORD in oneself. The TRUTH, KNOWLEDGE and BLISS

all

follows suit. Otherwise, there are millions if words, mantras and

names but

none of them provides salvation, until we know the true, original WORD

which

is secret and which is only known by the elite few; as said, "Koti Naam

Sansaar Me, Taate Mukti Na Hoya; Aadi Naam Jo Gupt Jap, Viralaa Bujhe

Koya."

Therefore, seekers of spiritual knowledge must know that ONE mantra

from

that ONE GOD.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

God stands by those who seek His grace

Sat, 31 Oct 1998 18:28:08 -0500

Though God has endowed man with several faculties like the power of

speech, listening, seeing and using his discrimination, yet he fails

to take advantage of them and reach the goal set before him. God can

be pleased and attracted only by demonstrating one's sincerity and

devotion. He will yield to man's pleas and get "bound" by the cord of

this powerful force. Scriptural texts point out how irrespective of

age or other considerations, God has rescued devotees who had pinned

their total faith in Him, from dangerous situations. But He knows what

transpires in the mind of everyone and to presume that one carries out

any act according to his own wish since there is none to witness it,

will be foolish because being Supreme, the Lord is aware of one's

intentions and deeds.

In the Mahabharatam, two warriors approached Lord Krishna, one with

arrogance and the other with humility and realizing the purpose of

their visit, He granted armed strength to the former and moral power

to the latter. Likewise, He did not fail to protect His devotees when

they were about to be routed in the war as the commander of the enemy

force used all his valor. Krishna even broke His vow in such a grave

situation, as His devotees' interests were to be safeguarded. Many

are the instances where God has stood by those who took refuge in Him,

thereby providing inspiration to us to follow the path of virtue and

gain His grace.

Both the incarnations of God, as Rama and Krishna, were to

re-establish Moral Order. The former on a crucial occasion says that

no one is to be blamed for the turn of events and that the mistake for

any mishap is in us. The pranks of the Divine Child, Krishna, when

unbelievable acts were performed by Him, instil hope in devotees that

God's guidance is always available to those who seek it with

sincerity. Outstanding persons have adored the activities of

Krishna. What distinguished the Lord when He descended on earth as a

human being were His eyes that were not only bewitching but hypnotised

men. Mystics in this era have sung in praise of the Lord in the idol

forms enshrined in temples.

During their brief stay in this world because death is certain for

anyone born,{{men in need of peace should associate themselves with

saints and God's representatives as this step will ensure cultivation

of purity of mind and treading the paths of devotion and

righteousness}} (1). Uttering the {{glorious names of the Lord will

take them nearer God}} (2). It is men's duty to avail the privileges

and opportunities provided by God to get rid of their distress.

(Saturday, October 31, 1998)

**************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Only association with a saint can lead one to salvation and

spiritual knowledge, none else can. Hence,wise men always look for a

living spiritual master and learn the NAME or WORD from Him.

(2) God is ONE, hence the true name of God ought to be ONE also.

However, there are many names of God in past and none of them can take

the seeker nearer God, but if the seeker is sincere and serious to

find the Truth a preceptor or true living spiritual master will reveal

him/her the NAME or WORD and that is the assured way to obtain

salvation and devotion. The God is thus known. The "Gyaataa, Gyaan,

and Gyey" all three become one and nothing more remains to be known.

That is the state of Brahmagya or Brahmagyani, the knower of the God

or spirit.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

_________________________________________________________

Company of holy men makes one perfect

Fri, 30 Oct 1998 13:07:48 -0500

Birth as a human being is the most precious and enviable gift of God.

All

God's creations carry out common tasks but man is privileged to shape

the

course of his life in a planned manner by using his faculties. He can

cultivate devotion to God and discriminate between good and evil. He

can not

only make his own brief stay pleasant but also make others happy.

But invariably man turns arrogant and becomes conscious of his

distinctions

by virtue of his academic acquisitions or his wealth or position or

fame and

often by his birth in a higher strata of society. He then behaves as if

is an authority and tries to ridicule others.

The way to overcome this unfortunate ``imagination of superiority,''

though

in reality it is not, has been shown in our scriptures. Among the

several

steps, the most important is to seek the company of saintly men, in

whose

presence the person who exhibits his conceit will feel ashamed of his

smallness.

What characterizes such divine souls, who may not be many in number, is

that

they are {{in constant touch with God}} (1) by virtue of their austere

life,

utter humility, simplicity, absence of anger, passion and ego and are

absolutely unconcerned about worldly pulls. Like the small lamp from

which

several others can be lit, they will shed luster because of their

purity in

words, thoughts and deeds.

By associating with such pious and godly souls, one can get rid of

one's own

defects, acquire good qualities, and become perfect. The scriptural

texts

pinpoint the need to eschew ego of whatever nature it may be and shed

conceit.

The Mahabharatam tells us how Arjuna, who was solely dependent on

Krishna

{{(God in human form)}} (2), suddenly became haughty and ``commanded''

the

latter to station the chariot in the midst of the warfield. He became

aware

of his valor and displayed his pride. This attitude ought to have been

totally shed by him.

Man should consider himself {{the last and least qualified among the

ranks

of devotees}} (3) and that in the presence of righteous person, his

attainments are insignificant. If one is thus humble, and if by chance

errs, God will rectify his defects. But arrogance will receive due

punishment.

The story of Bali in the Bhagavatam reveals the submission of a king

with

all his attainments to God and how he was rewarded. God took two

different

incarnations as a diminutive scholar (Vamana) and as one who pervades

the

entire universe. (Friday, October 30, 1998)

****************************************************************************

****

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Truth is God, and God is Truth, thus, those who are in constant

touch

with God are in essence the Truth itself. Their company is true

"Sat-sang".

The company of the truth, the God.

(2) God in human form is more useful and important than the all

pervading

God. It is only through the saint, the preceptor, that we can know

God.

(3) True, one of the way to kill ego is to consider myself as servant

of the

servants of God -"Daasandaas". This feeling automatically comes when

we are

in the company of holy men, saints and God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Noble traditions must be safeguarded

Thu, 29 Oct 1998 15:25:29 -0500

Noble traditions must be safeguarded

Being mortals and constantly battered by worldly impacts, it is very

easy

for us to become victims of injudicious acts. Some of us may have

committed

ourselves not to do any wrong, by resorting to the procedure of

offering

{{``surrender'' at the feet of the Lord through the guidance of a

preceptor}} (1). Still there may be occasions for us to unwittingly

indulge

in sinful deeds. What scriptures say, under such circumstances, is not

justify what we have done taking recourse to certain exceptions granted

the rules in the Moral Law but {{plead with God to forgive us and

assure Him

(rather yourself) that the wrongs will not be repeated}} (2).

Even veterans who had digested the entire sacred works, under rare

circumstances, were forced to act against their conscience and as such

the

position of laymen needs no mention. However, the only way not to incur

the

displeasure of God is to take refuge in Him. The preceptors din into

our

ears to refrain from doing wrongs by referring to instances in the holy

texts based on the Vedas. They will be careful to impart lessons

concerned

only to those who sincerely believe in the authority of the basic

sources of

knowledge and are eager to assimilate the contents. {{The Acharya

(preceptor) will light up the imperishable lamp of spiritual tradition

only

in some deserving disciples found fit to receive the contents}} (3).

Texts

point out to some who are deceitful, perverse, hypocritical and

conceited,

who should not be imparted spiritual wisdom. A verse says that one may

sow

seeds on saline soil, give one's daughter in marriage to an effeminate

bridegroom or hand over a garland of flowers to a monkey but not reveal

the

``secrets'' to one who is unworthy and not devout.

These messengers of God were extremely discreet in respect of the

knowledge

that they transmitted to their students. {{They first mastered the

scriptural texts and then took God's permission to expound the

principles

thereunder}} (4). Thus the master as well as the pupils were zealous in

safeguarding our noble traditions. The purpose of the study by

aspirants is

to know the nature of relationship between God and His devotees and get

the

obstacles removed from their journey to His empire. The service to the

Lord

extends to His messengers and nothing could be done against the

prescribed

codes. Those who have thus received training would not swerve from the

path

of righteousness shown by the Acharyas who have more forbearance than

Mother

Earth. (Oct. 29, 1998)

****************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1)One can not surrender at the feet of the Lord, which is hypothetical

and

undefined or un-conceived, without going through the guidance of a

preceptor. Hence, the first thing first. Forget the God, we don't

know His

entity, one shall look for a perfect preceptor (a living spiritual

master)

instead of the Lord God.

(2) To err is human, but to assure Him, rather yourself, that the

wrongs you

did once will not be repeated. However, wisemen learn from others

wrong

doing and do not do themselves wrong; on the other hand, some stupid,

idiots

do wrong and not learn from it and repeat it again and again. The

later has

no help from being doomed.

(3) The preceptor will light up the such a "chiraag" -the imperishable

lamp,

in only deserving devotees. Hypocrites and other interested only in

intellectual learning would waste their time. They should be honest

enough

in saying No thanks. Let me remain my way. I do not care for divine,

immortal, I want to know everything about perishable, mortal world

only.

(4) The messengers of God first had the vision of the Truth, the God,

they

first knew the God first hand, then they wrote scriptures. How can the

writer master them? Also some one has to write them before some one

can

master them! Then with their God's permission they expound the

principles

thereunder.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Saint's message of love

Oct. 28,'98

The chief aim of saintly men, who lead a life wedded to virtues even in

the

midst of worldly bustle, is to reform people who had chosen a wrong

path.

Such men of piety intend to bring about integration among all sections

society and make them religious-minded and detached, which alone can

give

them moral strength to face any type of turmoil.

These messengers, by performing their austerities, adopting simplicity,

and

{{speaking truth at all times}} (1), will ask those who seek their

guidance,

to rely on God totally and display their deep faith in His powers to

remove

their distress.

A saint who was offered a pair of scissors made of gold, declined to

receive

it but preferred to have a needle cast out of iron so as to string all

articles together. The message spread by such Godly men is to cultivate

devotion and seek divine grace.

Prayers do not mean that people should pester God with requests to

grant

them all their needs. God is certainly aware of the requirements of His

devotees and will bestow on them what they deserve. But {{people should

not

be misled by some who pose as God's representatives and claim to

possess

certain superior powers. They should not also be judged by external

appearance (with special dress) but by their internal purity}} (2).

A saint is a person of extraordinary character who would not injure

anyone's

sentiments, is an ardent devotee of Lord and who propagates the message

Divine Love, of non-violence and vegetarianism and changed the hearts

people by his own example. His outpourings compiled as hymns contain

certain

Do's and Don'ts, like ``The mind must be flushed out of impurities'',

``One

should not entertain hatred, jealousy, malice or other wicked

tendencies.''

``Let me not offend anyone'' is his plea. All his thoughts are on His

God

and His merciful acts. ``Even if, (by force of circumstances) should I

forsaken by my parents and others, let me cling to your feet forever''

and

so ``Don't spurn me'', is his stirring appeal. The saints have urged,

praise of the Lord, to give them the power to think good, speak truth

and do

only pious acts. .(Oct. 28,'98)

****************************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Speaking truth at all times brings one uniquely close to God. But

it is

very hard to do so, as said, "Saanch Baraabar Tap Nahin, Jhootha

Baraabar

Paap; Jaanken Radya Saancha Hai, Taaken Radya Aap" ,means, "the biggest

penance is speaking Truth, and the biggest sin is to lie; those who

speak

Truth has God in their hearts." As a by product or corollary of it,

such

people who always speak Truth, although they refrain from saying

anything

about future but, if they say anything it ought to materialize or come

true,

i.e. their blessings

always

comes true.

(2) There are a bunch of them -dime a dozen. Wearing saffron dress or

keeping long hair or shaving clean head does not necessarily make

messenger

of God. It is said, "Naam Na Puchho Saadhu Kaa, Pucha Leejeeye Gyan;

Mol

Karo Talwaar Kaa, Padi Rahan Do Myaan", means, "Do not ask the name if

saint, instead ask him the spiritual knowledge, what is there in the

sheath

when one needs the sword" as the sword is important and not its cover.

Hence, the messenger of God never proclaims themselves as such and

never

shows outer appearance any different than any other ordinary human

-Naaraayan.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

A valuable guide for human excellence

Thu, 29 Oct 1998 13:56:45 -0500

Long before the sacred texts were presented by experts to enable people

adopt the rigid rules under the Law of Morality, one of the Puranas

(old

history books/scriptures) has vividly portrayed the possible rise of

wicked

elements and their atrocious deeds violating divine injunctions. One of

them, has anticipated the shape of events to take place, the concern

of the

wiser men, their prayers to the Lord and the later's assurance to

re-establish the moral order, by duly punishing the persecutors.

This follows the Lord's presence in the world and the enactment of the

drama, {{the Ramayana}} (1), which now centuries after it had been left

for

posterity's benefit, still remains as a valuable guide for human

excellence.

Several commentaries and many adaptations of this poem have since been

written. Tradition looks upon the three monumental works - the

Ramayana,

the Mahabharatam and the Bhagavatam - as conduits for the vast field of

spiritual knowledge insulated in abstruse language and treasured in the

eternal Vedas.

In the entire range of religious literature, few other poems are more

charming, pleasing to the ear and {{saving the soul}} (2) by invoking

the

grace of Rama, than poet Valmiki's. It outlines how through

{{self-surrender}} (3), man can reach his goal. Valmiki was pleased

mightily

by the assurance of the creator of the world that what he composes

would be

immortal and would endure as long as the mountains stood and the rivers

flowed.

Among all the eight sentiments the divine poem comprehend that

compassion is

predominant. Rama was kind to the crow that injured Sita, rescued the

sages

even though Sita did not approve it and declared unequivocally and

emphatically that anyone who falls at His feet taking refuge, and

relies

upon Him, He shall rescue him. ``This is My vow, My practice,'' He

adds.

Even as the Lord was determined to save and protect those who seek His

grace, the Divine Mother too makes a solemn statement. ``Who is that in

the

world who has not committed any offense. The only power in us is to

forgive.'' Against odds, opposing and absorbing affections, both do not

deviate from Truth. Valmiki's bifocal approach to {{Rama as God and

Rama as

man}} (4), coalesce with perfect human situation.

***************************************************************************

COMMENTARY:

Dear Friend:

(1) The Ramayan -is an epic, a holly book as most know it. However, in

spirituality or in reality the Ramayan means the "house of Ram". The

human

body which houses the spirit or soul. It is also called Ram -"Ramati

Ram". The omnipotent omnipresent God, the Nirgun Brahma.

(2) The soul nether dies, nor takes birth, hence the saving the soul

does

not arise, what is meant here is pleasing to senses -including

intellect,

and ego. Such aspirants of spiritual knowledge hardly accomplish any.

(3) Self surrender is an assured way to reach one's goal but it is not

easy

to do so, because the mind, intellect, wisdom and ego are hard to

consume.

(4) Ram as God and Ram as man -are these two different entities? OR

-the

man who knows God is like God. In Ramayan it is said, "Jo Jaanat So

Dehi

Janaaee, Jaanata Tumahin Tumahin Hoi Jaaee." Means, "one who knows can

make

someone known, knowing you is like becoming you." Saints are people but

having godly qualities are like God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Humility helps one obey Divine Will

Wed, 30 Sep 1998 08:16:44 -0500

It can never be disputed that arrogance ruins a person who is

otherwise well set to enjoy progress in life. How this evil trait

spoils him can be noticed from his demeanor and frequent claim that he

has achieved success in his tasks by his own merits and efforts. ``I

can do and undo anything'' will be his glib talk. On the other hand,

as seen by the behavior of saintly men, he should say ``God has made

me to carry out this task and I am only a tool in His hands.''

Such {{humility will naturally lead him to obey the Divine Command and

discharge the ordained duties ought to be performed by him}} (1).

Whatever may be the status or class/caste of a person, these duties

ought not to be neglected. After so discharging his pious obligations,

he can say that he has done so due to Divine Grace. A statement by God

to give up all acts and submit to Him, should never be misconstrued as

not to do anything. It should be properly interpreted to mean that all

acts should be done but the benefits accruing therefrom should be

dedicated to God. That is God's real intention.

How are these duties to be performed?, one may ask. {{Constant

practice will surely enable a person to achieve what he desires}} (2).

God assures His devotees that He will definitely guide them. It is

necessary to remember in this connection that it is better to do the

duties prescribed for an individual than to aspire to do another

man's. Very often the aloof nature arising out of the performance of

one's own actions is mistaken as a sign of weakness. If someone

ridicules such a conduct, it is imperative to tell them that they are

only criticizing the ``external body, which is perishable, as death is

certain to anyone born'', while the soul within is permanent, ready to

occupy another place.

In Mahabharatam, it is cited the manner in which Arjuna showed his

temporary haughtiness by asking his ``charioteer'' (the Lord) to

station the vehicle in the middle of the battle ground, requesting Him

to describe the arrangements made for the commencement of the battle.

However, suddenly he became grieved at the prospects of so many being

killed. The Lord cleared his various doubts and the outcome is the

essence of the Upanishads called ``The Bhagavad Gita''. It is a

medicine to cure man's internal maladies. God visits the world when

unrighteousness raises its head. He has made a categorical statement

that He would stand by all those who follow the moral law and abide by

the scriptural injunctions. {{``If nothing is possible, surrender to

Me, doing your duties, but leaving the fruits thereof to Me'', He

adds}} (3). (Wednesday, September 30, 1998)

***************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) It is experienced that more one knows more one feels how little

one knows. We have seen that a pitcher full of water does not splash

where as when it is half full it not only splashes but makes noise

also. Thus humility keeps one right on his target and silently allows

one to progress spiritually. The more a person spiritually developed

the more humility s/he will have. Humility is like a shield of the

warrior who does have the sword which he never uses yet protects

himself. It is very important to have humility. However, it does not

develop by knowledge where as it is easily obtained by service,

because the service can not be performed unless one consumes his ego.

(2) I have seen in villages, where oxen are used to pull water from

the well with a large leather bucket and rope, that the soft rope rubs

against the hard sandstone and makes a groove in it. This is an

evidence that anything repeated constantly will yield to repetitions.

Thus spiritual practices done constantly and repeatedly ought to

attract the attention of God and the God will manifest Himself in

human form to protect and bless His devotees0. This satiates his

desire of spiritual knowledge which culminates in to Yoga, -the union

with God.

(3) The total unconditional surrender comes only with humility. The

promise of God never goes unfulfilled. All preceptors fulfill their

promises and those who can't do so don't make promises. It is the

focal point of Gita that "Do your duty and be unmindful of result,

i.e., offer the results to God." Krishna said that to Arjuna and any

true spiritual master can comfortably say that to his disciples. Thus

the devotees must do their duties with humility and not wait or expect

its results. Such a devotee always pleases God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Adherence to rules pleases God

Mon, 28 Sep 1998 21:02:03 -0500

Strict adherence to certain rules prescribed in holy texts will make

God Himself visit devotees and fulfill their desires. {{Foremost among

them is to speak truth only}} (1). Under no circumstances, even if

unpalatable or even should it incur the displeasure of others, one

should utter falsehood. At times, a person may try to wriggle out of a

piquant situation by telling a lie but later, he may find himself

duped (There are a very few exceptions to this golden rule). {[Truth

shall always triumph, declare all sacred works}} (2).

{{Secondly, meaningless animosity towards other creations of God

should never be harbored. This will mean that a person should see God

seated within everyone, irrespective of consideration of caste or

status. ``Treat all alike'', says the Lord in the Gita. One should

show respect to all forms of God. The next important factor is to

extend compassion to those in distress, unmindful of personal

inconvenience, if any. The recipient of one's help in times of

distress may not care to repay his debt of gratitude but that is not

the donor's concern. Even animals display their gratefulness if just a

morsel of food is offered. What about men who are gifted with several

faculties?}} (3) {{Contentment is yet another quality which has to be

cultivated, if not naturally found in one. If God wills, He will

shower abundant wealth and none can prevent His act. On the contrary,

whatever may be a person's efforts, he may fail to obtain Divine

mercy, if God feels he is not entitled to receive it}} (4). All these

noble traits were displayed by two children (as mentioned in the

Bhagavatham) who reposed total faith in Divine dispensation. Tested in

different ways, they were firm in their conviction and were rewarded.

The last and very significant advice is to maintain equipoise even

when there is scope for getting demoralized due to successive failures

in life. Happiness and grief are part of man's life and should there

be signs of displeasure from demi-gods, it is possible to remove their

ire by the performance of certain rites. {{Even remaining in the

family, one can show detachment}} (5). This is possible if the couple

stand united and see eye-to- eye on all family matters.

All these morals are made available to us in the story of a king who

lost everything in gambling, separated from his wife and children and

ultimately by virtue of the observance of the ethical rules by the

husband and wife, they were able to emerge unscathed from severe

trials. Their story was narrated, in Mahabharat, to the Pandavas by a

sage who pointed out to them that they were definitely better-placed.

(Tuesday, September 29, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENATRY

Dear Friend:

(1) It is utmost important to speak truth only. It is said that

there is no righteousness equal to speaking truth and there is no sin

equal to telling lies because one who speaks truth by heart has the

God Himself seated in him; as said, "Saancha Baraabara Tap Nahi,

Jhutha Baraabara Paap; Jaaken Hardaya Saancha Hein, Taake Hardaya

Aapa." But one can not speak the truth always until one keeps the

company of the truth speaking people for a long time. Hence please

seek the company of such a people.

(2) Truth always wins sooner or later, as said, "Satyamev Jayate."

One interesting thing about always speaking truth is that we have less

or no stress in our mind. We do not have to remember who we spoke

truth and who we did not, if we always speak truth to all.

(3) In another words, LOVE everybody. We can not do this until we

see the same common spirit in everybody. It is rare at best or

impossible at worst to hate our own selves. No body hates oneself

merely because of their very creation and sustenance or existence by

illusion, hence if people understand their real self, who they are,

they will love everybody, because the same self which is in them is in

everybody else. Thus how can one who knows the Truth keep animosity

with others when s/he cannot keep animosity with her/him self.

(4) Contentment is the biggest wealth one can have. It is said that,

"Go Dhan Gaja Dhan Baaji Dhan, Aur Ratan Dhan Khaan; Jab Aave Santosh

Dhan, Sab Dhan Dhuri Samaan", what it means is that ,"The wealth of

many cows, elephants, material possession and even the mines of

precious stones like diamond, emerald and other jewels are all worth

dust when the wealth of contentment is obtained." One of the retired

physics professor of Banaras Hindu University told me once that,

"Everything is warmer, no cold at all, than the object whose

temperature is -273 degree Celsius. A content person does not want

anything, not even air to breath. He is bound to be happy, if there is

any for him, with anything more than nothing.

(5) This is third cardinal principle of spiritual success (First:

Always speak Truth; Second: Love everybody; and Third: Don't be

attached to anybody). Only people who has true LOVE for the spirit can

stay detached from the world and relations. All relations are because

of the self or spirit or Truth in people other wise they are merely

shell to be discarded sooner or later in one way or other. We notice

that everyday, once the truth or spirit is no more in the shell no

body wants to keep the shell, no body love the shell anymore. Hence,

it is evident that we are detached, the attachment is only due to

spirit. That spiritual attachment is LOVE. The True love, which when

comes the truth automatically comes with it and we know the God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Worship of the Divine Mother

Sun, 27 Sep 1998 17:02:18 -0500

The custom of worshipping the Divine Mother during the nine nights at

the beginning of the four seasons has long been in vogue in the Hindu

tradition, but in course of time it has become confined to autumn,

which is called Sharad Navaratri. This nine- day festival is a time

exclusively devoted to the worship of Sakti who is the dynamic aspect

of the Supreme Being.

There are three forms of the Mother Goddess (Tripura-sundari) - Durga,

Lakshmi and Saraswathi - responsible for the different functions

involved in the creation and sustenance of the cosmos. Durga

represents physical prowess and power, and She is worshipped on the

first three nights. By propitiating Her during Navaratri the devotee

secures Her protection throughout the year as She wards off all

difficulties and obstacles.

The day of Mahalaya Amavasya (New moon day), after which this nine-

day period is reckoned, is the day meant for the discharge of one's

indebtedness to one's forefathers. Man by his birth is indebted to

many for he cannot exist alone and this day is meant for renewing the

promise given to the ancestors to follow the path of righteousness

(Dharma).

In explanation of Navaratri, it is said that all festivals must be

understood as a renewal of one's promise to the different deities, to

preserve the tradition and culture of Sanatana dharma, which was

necessary for the welfare of the entire creation. The second three

nights of Navaratri are dedicated to Lakshmi and the last three to

Saraswathi.

Lakshmi is the Goddess of wealth; She not only endows one with wealth

but also sustains it. Saraswathi is the Goddess of learning and by

bestowing spiritual knowledge She takes one to the plane from which

there is no return to bondage. {{Thus worshipping the three aspects of

the Divine Mother during Navaratri helps one to emerge victorious in

all aspects of life}} (1), which is indicated by Vijayadasami, the

tenth concluding day of the festival.

{{In Southern India, Navaratri is celebrated as the festival of dolls.

The arrangement of the different tiers of dolls, which at once brings

out the artistic talents of the people, signifies cosmic integration -

the inter-connectedness of everything in the universe. Nothing is left

out in this display - from the level of the Gods to the material

necessities of life}} (2).

The worship of the Divine Mother is as old as the Vedas, of which the

Srisukta is one of the most important hymns extolling the Goddess

occurring in the Rig Veda. This festival reiterates that everything in

this cosmos is the very manifestation of the Divine Mother. (Monday,

September 28, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Worshipping the three aspects of the divine mother during nine

days only can give the worshippers victory in all aspects of their

lives! Imagine, what would worshipping the God at all the time

through out the year give to the worshippers? Hence, the curious

people must know the Word, meditate on it daily, and worship God

everyday.

(2) These are all customs and cultures developed over time. It seems

these are nothing more than the imitation games of dolls represented

for each goddesses. Men must come out of fictitious customs,

beliefs, and rituals, and concentrate on the reality. Just like

after getting a real house or a real car in their adulthood people

cease playing with toy houses and cars; interested devotees after

getting to know the real God cease fooling with many of the thousands

of fake deities, gods, and goddesses. But it is utmost most important

to play and make a mental image about the fiction until they get real

Truth. Einstein said, "Imagination is more important knowledge."

Because imaginations raises questions and a curious finds its answers

-the knowledge. Therefore, know ONE who knows and know His

(spiritual) knowledge.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Discharge duty at all costs

Sat, 26 Sep 1998 07:43:58 -0500

{{Discharge duty at all costs}} (1)

The Bhagavad Gita is a gospel of action. Lord Krishna elaborates on

all the philosophical subtleties right from the beginning of His

sermon to Arjuna, to remove his ignorance about the nature of the Self

(Atman), but He underlines the importance of performing one's duties

first by following the path of action.

Though He makes it clear that man can get the right perspective of

life only when he is blessed with the knowledge of the Self, the Lord

makes it clear that the pursuit of the spiritual goal does not mean

shirking one's duties in life. Arjuna after listening to Lord

Krishna's exposition of the paths of action (Karma yoga) and wisdom

(Jnana yoga) committed the mistake of designating the path of wisdom

as superior to the path of action and questioned the Lord as to why He

urged him on the path of action (i.e. to fight instead).

It is important to understand that comparison is possible only when

there are options available. The Gita does not advocate these two

paths as alternatives; both are essential in life. It is not possible

to adopt either of them alone. One has to first embark on the path of

action and then graduate to Jnana yoga. Since Arjuna wanted to avoid

waging the war he wanted to avoid the path of action and hence raised

such a doubt to the Lord.

It is said that there was no illogical in the scriptural

prescriptions; so it was only in one's interpretation that doubts can

arise. Moreover, the scriptures must not be followed with blind faith

but with understanding and conviction. Having raised such a doubt

Arjuna was quick to point out that His teachings could not be

illogical but only his understanding, and hence he wanted the Lord to

suggest the path suitable to him.

In this context the Gita hints about the importance of developing the

capacity for discrimination (Viveka). One cannot expect the scriptures

to dispense advice; it expects the student to learn with understanding

and apply his mind with discrimination in any given situation. For

instance, it is easy to preach ``Speak the truth'', and expect the

student to follow it blindly, but it requires a good teacher to

instill the merit of this value in the student.

Though there are exceptions, in general, everyone has to follow both

these paths. Parallelly the scriptures talk of the four stages of life

(Ashrama). The four can be subsumed under two - the householder and

the recluse. The active social life is suited to the householder and

hence Karma yoga; and a secluded life to a recluse, so Jnana yoga is

ideal for the Sannyasin. (Saturday, September 26, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) True, there is only one duty, not duties, and we can't remain

without doing this more or less. But, the question arises that, what

is our duty? When we do not consider the material or physical body

(as it is discarded sooner or later} the only thing remain is "Jeeva"

or life, Atman, or self which is same in everybody. Thus, what is the

duty of the Jeeva or self? To be liberated , to come out of the

bondage from the cycle of birth and death. One must do this duty at

all cost, else the very cause and purpose of the human life is

defeated and we shall not be able to unite with God. All other duties

will be fulfilled if the life remains and if the life accomplished its

prime duty of self or God realization.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The dynamic aspect of the Almighty

Thu, 24 Sep 1998 20:18:22 -0500

The transcendental Absolute which is posited as the Ultimate Reality

in metaphysics, that which is beyond all phenomena, is God of

religion. This is the eternal principle which guides the destiny of

man and directs the process of creation remaining unaffected. The

dynamic functions of creation, preservation and dissolution of the

universe are directed by the Lord's power variously called Sakti,

Prakrti, Maya and Yogamaya.

The Puranas (ancient history books) elaborate the cosmological,

ethical and redemptive roles undertaken by this Divine power. It is

because of the veiling power of Yogamaya that the bonded soul forgets

its true spiritual nature. Maya's influence can be felt in the working

of the Gunas (properties or modes of nature called Sattva, Rajas and

Tamas).

The influence of Yogamaya can be seen in the manner in which human

life is controlled by two factors, Karma (result of deeds performed in

previous lives) and destiny. The Lord in the Bhagavad Gita points out

that it is {{only through devotion to Him that man can overcome Maya,

``This most wonderful Maya (veil) of Mine, consisting of the three

Gunas is extremely difficult to break through; those, however, who

constantly adore me alone are able to cross it.'' }} (1).

It is said that among the Puranas it is the Markandeya Purana and the

Devi Bhagavata that elaborated the glory of Yogamaya who had from time

to time assumed different forms for the sake of devotees. The episode

in which the havoc caused by the demons Madhu and Kaitabha after they

became invincible with the boons granted to them glorifies the role

played by Yogamaya who was responsible for putting them down.

During the time of dissolution of the cosmos when the Supreme Being

had withdrawn from activity (Yoga-nidra) two demons sprang

from the ears of the Lord and since there were only the cosmic waters

all around, they did not know what to do and meditated with the

purpose of finding out their origin. They heard the mystic sound of

the Pranava and was blessed with a vision of Yogamaya who, pleased

with their austerities, granted the boons they sought that they could

die only when they wished.

Eager to test their new-found power they challenged Brahma (the

creator) to a fight who became terrified and sought refuge in the Lord

and His Yogamaya. The subduing of the demons at the instance of

Yogamaya and Her glory is related in this context in the Markandeya

Purana. This episode underscores that Yogamaya is responsible for

causing both obstruction and also redemption from it by Her grace.

(Friday, September 25, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) There are a few things a man can't do until blessed by the

spiritual master only after he has steadfast devotion. Getting over

Kaama, attachment (Moha) , and illusion (Maayaa), are some of these.

People can control over anger, greed, etc. but not the above.

However, as they get deeper and deeper in to devotion the master

blesses them with the vision and they start perceiving the truth. As

they see truth, only with the blessings of the spiritual master the

Kaama, Moha, and Maayaa start diminishing until they reach a point

which is infinitesimally small and can be called nil. However, this

does not happen without the blessing of the Lord, therefore, one

should seek the true spiritual master, just like we seek clouds for

rain. Only through the spiritual master can one easily seek the Truth

and God, and this is only possible with intense love, devotion and

service to God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Creation, subject to the flux of time

Wed, 23 Sep 1998 20:10:01 -0500

ARTICLE

Creation, subject to the flux of time

The entire cosmos is subject to the vicissitudes of time and hence

whatever has an origin at a point of time has to come to an end.

According to the Puranas all the worlds including the heavenly realm

of the creator (Brahma) are conditioned by time. The process of

creation (Srishti) and dissolution (Pralaya) of the universe is a

periodic cycle in which the entire cosmos manifests at the time of

creation and is withdrawn at the time of dissolution.

In the context of explaining how a soul can obtain release from being

subject to transmigration, Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita dilates

upon how Self-realization enables one to overcome time. {{A Yogi

because of his Self-knowledge understands the relative nature of

time}} (1). The time cycle for the creation, sustenance and

dissolution of the cosmos is termed Mahayuga and in the realm of the

creator, Brahma, a day corresponds to 1000 Mahayugas and similarly, a

night also extends to another 1000 Mahayugas.

All embodied beings come into existence from the non-manifest

condition at the beginning of the cosmic day and merge into the subtle

body of the creator during the cosmic nightfall. Chaturmukha Brahma

undertakes this function at the behest of the Almighty. This cosmic

cycle is an eternal process in which the multitude of sentient beings

periodically assume various forms. Thus the bonded soul is reborn

countless times during one such cosmic day.

It is said that by elaborating on the process of creation Lord Krishna

underscored that even the best of the worlds does not offer

permanence. The analogy of a person retiring to sleep who wakes up the

next morning in the same place is apt to explain the process of

transmigration. During sleep the person is unaware of what happens to

him and the world.

So also, the transmigrating soul at birth does not remember its state

prior to coming into existence. So death is also nothing but

returning to the same state from which one has come to this world. It

becomes apparent that there must be a way to transcend this process of

transmigration to which all created beings are subject to.

Lord Krishna points out that beyond even this non-manifest subtle

state before creation is yet another non-manifest existence, the

Ultimate Reality, which does not perish even though all beings are

subject to decay. This non-manifest is spoken of as the

indestructible, the Supreme Being, which is the goal to be united

with, after which there is no more return to the mortal world. The

methods by which this goal can be attained has also been elaborated in

the Gita. (Thursday, September 24, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) It is said that the time a Yogi spend in trance or hibernation

state is not included in his chronological age. It is true that the

age is of the body and the spirit is not time bound. It is

experienced that a short time one spends in trance during meditation

is not felt at all, whereas the time one spends in meditation is felt

very long. However, if this time is increased to at least 3 hours,

(or days, months or years) it can easily be experienced that the soul

is not time bound and the body can be maintained in same condition. A

devotee on the other hand would like to keep himself busy in the

service of God instead of going in trance or hibernation for a long

time as s/he sees it as a time taken away from devotion and service to

God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Liberation, goal of human life

Wed, 23 Sep 1998 12:15:43 -0500

Liberation, goal of human life

Human birth is the result of a long process of evolution wherein the

transmigrating soul by its merit is blessed by the Lord with this form

{{for the purpose of striving for liberation from rebirths. But, among

the countless privileged with human birth, it is a rare one who

develops intense longing for release from bondage}} (1). This is due

to one's stock of deeds (Karma), both good and bad, acquired in

previous lives which has started fructifying in this birth, which

predisposes one to act in a particular manner in this life.

The life of Dhruva, the child-devotee, illustrates this truth.

Spurned by his father Uttanapada at the behest of his stepmother who

wanted her child to be doted upon, Dhruva who was hardly five-years

old was stung to the quick at the treatment meted to him. His mother

Suniti tried her best to console him saying that one must not

entertain evil thoughts about others, pointing out, ``For a man reaps

in this life the very suffering he has inflicted on others in a

previous existence.''

She instead diverted his mind by advising him to adore the Almighty

who was capable of blessing him with all he desired. Dhruva intent on

winning his father's love, immediately left for the forest to perform

intense penance. Sage Narada who learnt about it tried to dissuade the

child saying that he was too young to undertake austerities

but seeing his determination blessed him and {{taught him the method

of winning Divine grace by initiating him into the Vasudeva mantra}}

(2).

Though he was very young, Dhruva was blessed with the vision of the

Lord because of his one-pointedness of mind within a brief period.

Another Purana while recounting this episode mentions that Dhruva was

one Vishnu Sarma in his previous birth who had acquired great

spiritual merit and hence he was able to realize God even as a child.

Dhruva was speechless when he beheld the Lord and his heart overflowed

with devotion for Him and the Lord who intuited that the child wanted

to extol Him but knew not how to, touched his cheeks with His conch,

which is considered to be the concrete form of the Vedas. He was

instantly blessed with spiritual knowledge and sang

the glory of the Lord.

Though the Lord granted his heartfelt desire and also a permanent

place in the Divine abode, Dhruva was not satisfied with them because

with the knowledge granted to him he knew that he had failed to seek

liberation from the Lord because his mind was still nursing the hurt

of his stepmother's stinging words. (Wednesday, September 23, 1998)

**********************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) It is true that the human birth is only given to us merely by the

mercy of Lord God for the only purpose to liberate ourselves from the

miseries of the sufferings from the cycles of birth and death. It is

also true that only a few of the billions of people find the solace

and peace after knowing the truth and devotion to God. All scriptures

of the world vouch this fact, as said in Ramayan:

"Nar Sahastra Mahan Sunahu Puraaree, Kou Eka Hoee Dhrma-vrata Dhaaree;

Dharma-seel Kotika Mahan Koee, Vishaya Vimukha Biraaga Rat Hoee.

Koti Virakta Madhya Sruti Kahaee, Samyaka Gyaan Sakrata Kou Lahaee;

Gyaanvanta Kotik Mahan Kou, Jeevan-mukta Sakrata Jaga Sou.

Tinha Sahastra Mahun Saba Sukha Khaanee, Durlabha Brhama-leen

Bigyaanee;

Dhrama-seel Birakta Aru Gyaanee, Jeevan-mukta Brahma-leen Praanee.

Saba Te So Durlabha Suraraayaa, Raama Bhagati Rata Gata Mada Maayaa;

So Hari Bhagati Kaaga Kimi Paaee, Vishawanaatha Mohi Kahahu Bujhaaee."

What it means is, Paarvati or Umaa is inquiring from Shiva -her

preceptor, "O Shiva, please listen, there are countless human on this

earth, only one out of thousands of them may be righteous; among tens

of million of such righteous people there may be few who are not sense

gratifying and attached. Sruti (a scripture) tells that among tens of

million of such detached people, only few may have equanimity and

wisdom; among tens of million of such wise only few may be "Mukta" (a

person liberated from the cycle of birth and death). Among thousands

of such "Muktas" it is hard to find some lives (or souls) united with

God. Of all these the most difficult and rare is one who is devoted

to God leaving behind all his ego and illusion; How did Kaagabhusundi

got such a devotion, please teach me, O Lord of the world."

(2) Naarada taught Dhruva the Vasudeva Mantra! Just like God is ONE

and is known by different names even in one language -such as in

Hindi, Bhagwaan, Ishwar, Parmaatmaa, Hari, Raama, Krishna, etc., and

there are over 240 languages in the world, thus God has countless

names; similarly the real Mantra is so small and is only ONE which can

not be said in words in any language, yet it is known by various

names, such as Vasudeva Mantra, Shiva Mantra, Onkaara Mantra, etc.

The real Mantra is given to the soul or spirit, only who hears or

listens. Although Naarada gave this Mantra to Dhruva when he was 5-6

years old, Naarada also gave it to Prahalaad when he was still in his

mother's womb. Also the legend of Abhimanyu is well known, who

learned how to get in to Chakravihyu from his father Arjuna when he

was also in his mother's womb. Should this not be enough evidence

that spiritual awakening can only be done by an awakened spirit -a

true spiritual master.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

_________________________________________________________

The following is an article edited for clarity and addition of

emphasis on text put in parenthesis, such as {{...}} (1), followed by

a commentary which is clearly separated from the article by a line of

stars:

ARTICLE

Ignorance, cause of man's sufferings

{{The root cause of man's sufferings is ignorance of his true

spiritual nature. Identifying himself with the body which is

ephemeral, he mistakenly thinks that the afflictions of the body are

real and tries to find solutions to his problems at this level. In the

Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna taught Arjuna the knowledge of the Self to

remove his ignorance right at the outset after he threw down his arms

refusing to fight in the war.

Thus the Lord underscores that wisdom is the panacea for man's ills in

the second chapter of the Gita. Instead of trying to convince Arjuna

that he must perform his duty without shirking it, that is to fight

which was his duty as a warrior, Lord Krishna in the battlefield

started teaching him the abstract truth about the eternal nature of

the Self (Atman, spirit, or soul).

Chalking out the paths of action (Karma yoga) and knowledge (Jnana

yoga) He explained to him the necessity to adopt them according to

one's level of spiritual evolution. For Arjuna's edification the

qualities of a man of wisdom were pointed out to him by the Lord. This

He did to impress upon him that a man of wisdom will not have any

delusions in life and will be able to face the vagaries of life

without succumbing to them.

Arjuna's volte-face when the war was about to start was because of

attachment after beholding the elders of the family like Bhishma,

Drona and others on the opposite side. He tried to rationalize his

action of refusing to fight with them, by saying that he would be

instrumental in killing them and thus would incur sin. After listening

to Krishna's teachings he was convinced that he should follow the path

of knowledge.

Arjuna's natural response after listening to the Lord was to give up

action because the circumstances were unpleasant. Though normally he

loved to fight, in this situation he was confronted with the

unpleasant task of fighting with his elders; so he was looking for an

escape route at the slightest pretext. In the second chapter though

Lord Krishna dilates upon the path of knowledge in the beginning and

the end, He discusses and stresses the path of action.

Arjuna's dilemma at this stage was whether he should adopt the path of

action or knowledge. The third chapter thus begins with a question by

Arjuna to the Lord which portrays his mental confusion, ``If You

consider knowledge as superior to action, why then do You urge me to

this dreadful action, Kesava?'' The Lord resolved his doubt by

pointing out the basic mistake Arjuna committed of comparing the two

paths thinking that they were optional}} (1). (Tuesday, September 22,

1998)

***************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Then there are other paths given in the Gita, and towards the end

in Chapter 12, Krishna said to Arjuna that I promise and assure you

that if you are devoted to me I will deliver you to the absolute

Truth. The following verses from the Gajal Gita explains it clearly:

"Sagun Brahma Kaa Sugam Upaaya, So Me Tujhako Diyaa Bataaye;

Ygya Daanaadi Karma Apaaraa, Mere Arpan Kar Kar Saaraa.

Atal Lagaave Meraa Dhyaan, Samajhe Mujhako Praan Samaan;

Sab Duniyaa Se Tode Preeta, Mujhako Samajhe Apnaa Meet.

Prem Mgan Ho Ati Apaar, Samajhe Yaha Sansaar Asaar;

Jinka Man Nita Mujhme Yaar, Unase Karataa Me Ati Pyaar.

Kewat Ban Kar Naav Chalaau; Bhavsaagar Se Paar Lagaau;

Yaha Hai Sabase Uttam Gyan, Isase Tu Kar Mera Dhyaan.

Phir Hovegaa Mohee Samaan, Yaha Kahanaa Mam Saccha Jaan;

Jo Chale Isake Anusaar, Vaha Bhee Ho Bhavasaagar Paar."

It means, "I have told you the easier path or way of worshipping the

personified God having my form, with the name or word. Offer all your

actions, donations, and love to me. Meditate on me devotedly and

consider me your life breath. Relinquish all interest in this

material world and consider me your friend. Overwhelmed with this

love consider this world as worthless. I love you whole heartedly so

surrender your self to me. I will row your boat and I assure you

salvation. This is the supreme knowledge and wisdom. So now you

meditate on me. I promise, you will be like me and if you follow this

you will receive the same nectar of that absolute Truth, bliss and

happiness which I have experienced." Thus Krishna clearly upheld the

path of love, devotion and service to Arjuna after telling him many

other paths.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

_________________________________________________________

DO YOU YAHOO!?

Get your free @yahoo.com address at http://mail.yahoo.com

Forwarded Message

From:

IMCEAMS-KYGOVTMAIL_NRDEP_NAGDA@ky.gov

To:

Subject:

Diesel engines and alternator

Date:

Tue, 22 Sep 1998 09:06:18 -0500

Plain Text Attachment [ Download File | Save to my Yahoo! Briefcase ]

What kills a diesel engine when the ignition switch is turned off?

Is it that the diesel fuel is cut off thorugh a solenoid vlave, OR does

decompress the engine by opening some valve, OR does it cut off

elecricity

from the alternator or battery, although once started it does not use

electricity due to its high compression ratio the diesel fuel is

sprayed in

atomized form in the engine and the heat of compression fires it?

It appears that you may be knowing it or you may research easier than

me in

this regard and I would appreciate it if you would educate me in this

behalf. Thank you in anticipation.

Sincerly

Forwarded Message

From:

nagdads@yahoo.com

To:

nagdads@hotmail.com

Subject:

Age-old values still hold good -Food for thoughts

Date:

Mon, 21 Sep 1998 17:55:05 -0500

Plain Text Attachment [ Download File | Save to my Yahoo! Briefcase ]

The following is an article edited for clarity and addition of

emphasis on text put in parenthesis, such as {{...}} (1), followed by

a commentary which is clearly separated from the article by a line of

stars:

ARTICLE

Age-old values still hold good

{{Many among the present generation quite often wonder whether age-

old traditions and customs are relevant today and whether they can be

practiced}} (1). No doubt, in this period of technological progress,

some of these values cannot be purposeful. But they were prescribed by

sages and saints after deep consideration and those great men lived

happy, pure and healthy life and were able to carry out their

spiritual obligations. {{They laid extraordinary stress on food habits

as man's behavior depended to a great extent on it}} (2).

{{Sacred texts refer to three categories of persons with respect to

their eating. First, some people take food at any time, even during

odd hours, at any place, whatever is given, whether they are hungry or

not. Second, they may have appetite and so may stuff their stomach

not minding the quality of the food or the person who gives it. They

are compared to cats which stealthily drink milk preserved carefully,

by jumping from a height, not concerned about the consequences. The

third type will think whether the food given is pure or permitted by

religious custom. If the food is forbidden, they will refrain from

even seeing it. They will also be careful about the quantity and the

time. Such men were in a majority in the past, abiding by customs.

More important was the utterance of certain prescribed ``Mantras''

before and after meals, thanking God for His mercy in having permitted

to enjoy the day's needs. The food was eaten by squatting on the

floor, wearing simple clothes, both of which were believed to help in

the digestion of the same. A few seconds of meditation was also

considered to purify food and water. Simple Mantras and hymns were

taught to women so that they recited the same while preparing the food.

In earlier years, people got up from bed early in the morning and

engaged themselves in physical and spiritual practices because the

atmosphere was free from pollution. They would be brisk during the

whole day and would retire to bed early. Health and wealth lie in our

hands, counting on nature's treasures. These customs can be adopted by

all even now without any personal sacrifice.

So too was the reverence shown to elders who had gained knowledge and

experience over the years. Many, even till recently, learned Sanskrit.

Marriages were solemnized in the presence of Fire-God and any

misunderstanding which unfortunately cropped up was resolved by

adopting a give-and-take policy. The country has inherited a glorious

culture which ought to be preserved and followed to the extent

possible so that differences can be buried and peace ensured}} (3).

(Saturday, September 19, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Age old customs and traditions may not be relevant or valid today

in terms of physical world such as costumes, hair style, living style,

home architects, etc. but in terms of spiritual world there is not a

slightest deviation or variation in it. The breath still comes the

same way as it used to, the number of breaths per minutes did not

change, the spirit or soul is same as it was even before the earth was

made some 4.5 billions years ago or the solar system, galaxies, and

universe were made billions of years ago. Thus the life evolved

through many phases but the nuclei of the life -the spirit, has not

changes a bit.

(2) The modern science has proved, a little bit, that the food we eat

affects our mood. Ancient sages knew it farther. They said, in

scriptures and Vedas, that through a complex physical biological

transformation of food in to juices, blood, flesh, bones, marrow, and

semen (or eggs); it eventually, through a yet more complex biological,

metaphysical transformation and subtle way, affects our mind and

thoughts. Therefore, for an spiritual aspirant it is most important

and essential to abstain from eating too cold or too hot, too old (too

ripe) or too fresh, i.e., raw, too little or too much, too late or too

early, food. Scriptures put all foods in to three categories

-"Saatvic" -the divine food, "Raajasic" -the food which provoke

vigor, arousal of vices, etc., and "Taamasic" -which make one

lethargic, lazy, sleepy, sick, angry, etc.

(3) In "Karma Kaand" there are many Mantras, each meant for every

occasion. There are Mantras for waking up, getting out of bed and

touching ground, for doing every act of personal hygiene such as

taking bath, passing urine and stool, so also for wearing clothes,

drinking, eating, seeing lamp light in the evening, and many other

Mantras for purifying food, body etc.

This weekend I happened to attend a so called spiritual retreat with a

group of spiritual aspirants at one of the Monasteries in Kentucky.

One of the attendees went to Mecca for pilgrimage and got his name

changed as 'Hazi so and so'. He demonstrated that Muslims before

praying at the Kaabaa or at any other place and time purify their

limbs -hands, feet, nose, mouth, ears, etc. by doing physical actions

of washing with water, or where water is not available they use sand.

My question was that the body is full of filth anyway (inside there is

blood, pus, urine, stool, mucus in the nose, sleep in eyes, wax in

ears, cough in the throat, and saliva in mouth, etc.) and we can't do

much to clean it from interior, then why not just take a good bath to

clean externally before praying, instead of washing limbs only.

Spiritually, the most important thing is to keep the mind clean with

pious thoughts and feelings of love, devotion and service for God.

I have also learned that spiritual awakening must never come from the

physical, mental, or psychological shocks, such as a divorce,

accidents, a fire burning the house, etc. Spiritual aspirants must

seek company of saints and sages of truth only to enlighten themselves

rather than remedying social, personal, physical problems with

relations, jobs, etc. That would defeat the very purpose of spiritual

knowledge. We would not seek God, we would seek from God -the

pleasures, comforts, mending relations, wealth, etc. This would not

be a spiritual exercise or practice.

Similarly, in "Gyan Kaand" also there are many Mantras. Where as

there is ONE and only ONE , Mantra in "Bhakti Kaand." This is that

by which we know our own self -the God. It is relatively easier to

practice one than many. The God is also ONE which is much easily and

quickly pleased by love, devotion and service.

With best wishes.

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Seeking the company of holy men

Mon, 21 Sep 1998 13:35:14 -0500

Seeking the company of holy men

The term ``devotion'' has been defined in scriptural literature in

many ways. Examples of how sages, saints and aspirants, at graded

levels, have practiced it, have been illustrated. Connected with the

description of devotional exuberance displayed by such outstanding

pious men are mentions about the distinguishing characteristics of

holy men and the benefits one gets from association with the virtuous

and how the influence exerted by them brings about a change in the

very outlook of a man who is at the cross-roads.

{{A holy man is always kind, free from impurities, remaining tranquil

in happiness and suffering, is ever calm, detached, eats sparingly,

dutiful, always resigned in God, vigilant, courageous in all

situations, showing respect to all, friendly, performing duties as

directed by divine commands and never considers anything as his own as

they have been granted to him by God}} (1).

There are several types of spiritual disciplines but seeking the

company of holy men results in cultivating detachment and the

Bhagavatham (a Hindu scripture book) specifies many who have taken

resort in God by the only step of associating themselves with saintly

persons, as in their midst ignorance is removed, mind is purged of

evil thoughts and an attitude of renunciation is developed. The

Bhagavatham refers to {{the lessons which can be learnt not only

directly from a spiritual guide}} (2) but from various creations of

God in nature doing their duties as directed. Apart from the Lord's

answers to a devotee on topics related above, {{the 24 sources in

nature from which one can imbibe morals, enabling one to be perfect,

have also been described}} (2) in the form of a dialogue between a

king and a divine creation with blazing spiritual power.

Referring to some of them, it is said that the concentration was

learnt from a blacksmith making an arrow unmindful of even the

presence of a king passing by with his retinue; wandering without any

need for a home from a snake which enters the holes of rats and to

remain without fear or animosity from a worm that is constantly stung

by a wasp by which it gets transformed as a wasp. (Monday, September

21, 1998)

***************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) These are some of the characteristics of Holy men or saints or

sages of the Truth. The others are saints will suffer but help

others, equanimity, neutral -neither favor anybody nor oppose

anybody, they have pious heart, they always look for other's welfare

and benefit, they provide happiness when meet and sorrow when they

depart or leave, celibacy, self control, clean living, righteousness,

wisdom, detached and uninterested in worldly affairs, Yoga -united

with God, eradication of discipline's sorrows, merciful, follows rules

or do's and don'ts for living, generosity, being always in prayer to

God, contentment, patience, Truth, firmness, pardoning, blessing even

their enemies, having no enemies, and they have no lust, no anger, no

pride, no ego, no sin, no greed, no zealousness, no cheating, no fear,

never ask disciples for any cash or kinds, they be happy in seeing

others gain, be sorry seeing others loss and sorrows, they have

guileless heart and are devoted to God by heart, words and deeds, they

never expect self respect, they are respectful to others, selfless

service, peace, never speak harsh words, always sweet spoken, and the

biggest of all is that they will give everything including their

spirit to their disciple. These are the few of many, actually

infinite, characteristics and qualities of a true spiritual master or

saint.

One should look for these characteristics in a spiritual master and

once found, one shall adhere to his teachings until one accomplishes

the goal of God realization. Unfortunately, if the master decides

ato leave his disciples before they get realization then we must

continue in his teachings while serving the spiritual master deputed

by him. If we do not know who is that, then we must look for those

characteristics again before we serve the new master. However, it is

utmost essential to have a living true spiritual master for God

realization. No scriptural books, or any thing else can provide what

a preceptor can. Hence, please seek the holy man, sage or saint of

Truth and get the word of advice from him first hand, then embark on

the spiritual journey to realize God.

(2) It is so easy to learn from one person, who knows the God, the

spirit, or soul or self, and who can let us know simply by his mercy

and will. This knowledge will be complete up to the extent our

preceptor knows, because a perfect spiritual master knows it all, as

said in Ramayan, "Jo Jaanat So Dehi Janaai; Janat Tumhin Tumhi Hoi

Jaai", means, "One who knows can impart all his knowledge and on

knowing YOU fully one becomes YOU.

One can also learn from many sources but, first, it is hard to pick up

from these various sources because we do not understand their

languages, and it will be merely our own answers to our own questions

and attempts; secondly, why go many ways when one way gives us all.

It was Dattatrey who did 24 preceptors (Earth, Wind, Sky, Water, Fire,

Moon, Sun, a bird called "Kapota" who never stays at one place,

Python, Sea/ocean, Kite, Honeybee, Elephant, Honey carrier, Dear,

Fish, Prostitute, a bird named "Kuraari" who hoards or stores things,

Child, Virgin girl, Arrow maker, Snake, Wasp, and humming bee) all

from the nature -the creation of the God, before he could get

satisfaction. The God was first, then He made the nature -so it is

secondary. End result of all this hard work was just liberation

"Mukti" but not devotion. Some times, even after all this one does not

reach in the domain of God because the God is ONE and we are getting

its few characteristics only from various sources of nature, hence, we

never get to know a complete picture. God has infinite characteristics

and virtues, where as by going through various preceptors from the

nature we satisfy our selves with a few and consider that as full

complete, the God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Prahlada's deep devotion to Lord

Fri, 18 Sep 1998 10:49:04 -0500

Prahlada's deep devotion to Lord

Persons wielding power or those who are entrusted with authority

should be extremely and doubly cautious in promising help or giving

protection to others, because the consequences at times may be

disastrous. The recipients may misuse the boon, granted to them by the

former, to become a bane and commit rash acts. In such circumstances,

the men who desire to accede to their requests should anticipate the

consequences and seek God's grace. Scriptures refer to the example of

one among the Trinity of God who was usually generous in granting the

requests of those who sought them from him, being indiscriminate in

one particular instance as the boon-seeker turned a tyrant and went

about claiming equality with God. Ultimately, only the Supreme Being's

intervention could quell him.

A God-hater, who after grim penance, obtained enormous strength,

started torturing his subjects over whom he ruled. The boon he secured

was that he would not die under normal conditions. He wanted everyone

not to recognize God. There was no other way but to appeal to the

Supreme Lord to intervene. One of the noble qualities of the Lord is

not to get angry over such indiscreet acts of those whom He had

empowered to fulfill devotees' desires, nor to chide them in the

presence of others. He would only gently remind them of their hasty

action. In the Ramayana, when the chief of the monkey legion was

reluctant to accept Vibhishana as their ally doubting his motives,

Rama diplomatically said He would like to give His views and judgment

on this issue. Likewise, the Lord was not critical of Brahma's act of

conferring too much powers on the king. The Lord assumed a special

man-lion form and emerged from a pillar to kill him.

The incarnation of God as Nara-Simha was intended to translate into

action the words of the innocent child of the tyrannical king,

Prahlada, who with absolute confidence and in unequivocal terms

declared that God is ``Immanent'' and would surely rescue His

devotees. God indirectly protected him when he was pushed down from

the top of a hill or administered poison. But when the child was asked

whether he can show the presence of God in a pillar, unhesitatingly he

said ``yes''. His prayers were answered and God as ``Nara-Simha'' came

out of the pillar. This rare form had to be taken because of the boon

the King had obtained. Prahlada's devotion, was absolutely genuine,

deep, unfathomable and firm unlike in the case of some

pseudo-devotees. {{The chanting of the Narasimha Mantram, meditation

on His glorious form and His worship will fetch peace and prosperity}}

(1). (Friday, September 18, 1998)

***************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The chanting of any Mantra will provide concentration of mind and

the result for which that Mantra is meant. There are millions of

Mantras each one does its purported job but none of them, except the

Word or Name of the God, give the vision of the God, and develop

devotion and service to Him.

First thing, spiritually all people on the globe are same, i.e., the

soul, the spirit in each and everybody is one and same; hence the

Mantra also for the understanding and realizing the spirit ought to be

the ONE and same. And indeed, it is the same. We know this only when

we get the Word and realize it first hand ourselves. But people are

interested in various different things hence there are various

different Mantras for each of those different things. Such as, people

interested in occult powers would like to have many Siddhies and the

Mantras for those Sidhies are chanted and perfected. People

interested in wealth will chant Laxmi Mantra, those interested in

knowledge will chant Saraswati Mantra, and so on and so forth.

Unfortunately, most people are only interested in getting something

from the God and they are least interested in God itself. The big

bang took place in the beginning which induced illusion in every human

by which s/he forgot her/his real identity and considered the

perishable body as her/himself. Hence without understanding the I in

this body the body itself became I. We say I am such and such, in

reality the name of the body is such and such. The I is same

everywhere, but It has mingled so much in us that it is hard to

separate it. It is separate but we just can't think the Truth so it

appears same. It is said in Ramayan, "Jad Chetan Me Granthi Padi

Gayi, Jadapi Mrathaa Chhutat Kathinai" means , "The knot between the

body and soul is false yet it is difficult to untie." It will not

only be difficult but it will be impossible to untie because in

reality the knot is not there. It is only in our mind. Go beyond the

mind, intellect, and ego and come in the sphere of spirit and it can

be clearly seen that there is no knot at all. Here is the need of a

preceptor who has so called opened his own knot and who can teach any

interested one to open his/her eyes and the so called knot. But there

need to be an inquisitive, curious, inquirer with zeal, fervent hopes

and sheer determination to know God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

God guides those attached to Him

Thu, 17 Sep 1998 08:43:24 -0500

{{The Divine Law lays down the requirements for man to lead an ideal

life, getting over the problems and ultimately reaching God's empire}}

(1). But if one person questions as to what would happen if he does

not or refuses to follow its rules, the only answer is that he will

have to pay the penalty by being made to take several rebirths and go

through turmoil. Another person may ask what would be the prize he

would obtain if, as advised, he scrupulously adhered to the same.

Whether one upholds the law or transgresses it is not a matter of

business or barter. He will gain moral strength and face challenges

without difficulties and receive the due rewards if he follows it. A

politician who abides by the law will rule his country in a fair

manner. A scholar will always maintain his balance and a businessman

will never resort to unethical practices.

Scriptures show how God Himself, in His incarnations, and His chosen

representatives have gained by obeying the divine commands. The

Bhagavatham contains the Lord's merciful deeds and the benefits He

showered on ardent devotees who never deviated from the prescribed

path.

Devotees who pin their faith in the Almighty will be helped by the

Divine Mother, who listening to their woes, recommends to the Lord

that they be protected. In incarnations too, the Divine Couple remain

united and the epistle She, as Rukmini, sent to Krishna, explains the

poignant feelings of separation of an individual soul from the cosmic

soul.

Scriptures also point out how tradition and practices differed between

eras. Perhaps more than one marriage was allowed for men in earlier

eras. Although Krishna was seen in various houses, He was found to

perform different types of duties as envisioned in the Divine Law. In

one house, He was performing certain rituals and in another was giving

charity to people. Elsewhere, He was honoring Vedic scholars. It is

said that the inconceivable feats which Krishna performed even as a

child demonstrating the limitless powers that God-incarnate possessed

in all stages.

How God guides those who are deeply attached to Him is seen by the

various ways by which as Krishna, He planned for the success of the

Pandavas. When His dependents got demoralized by the successive tests

they faced, God deputized saints to console them. In one way, these

trials acted as training for their future posts, as how to remain

unruffled even under worst circumstances. (Thursday, September 17,

1998)

****************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The Divine Law appears to be one which when followed we

accomplish our goal of this human life. The goal is to know our real

self or spirit, -the God. There is nothing good and bad in this

regard. It has been seen that good believed to be at one place or one

time is bad at other place or other time. Therefore, it appears that

all those actions, thoughts or things which help us fulfilling our

goal are good and all others which hurt our goal of god realization

are bad. Putting all these in a law makes it a divine law. There

are numerous examples of this. Surdasji, Tulsidasji, Valmikiji, and

many other renowned saints were all very notorious for their actions

until they were advised and guided by their preceptors, then each one

of them became great saints at the pinnacle of fame and glory. It is

a fact that I feel how bad I was only when I know the good. In

reality there is nothing good or bad. Just the absence of good is

called bad, like the absence of light is called darkness, lack of

wisdom or knowledge is called ignorance, etc. So no body is ignorant,

or in darkness, it is the magnitude which matters. In reality

everyone of us is as powerful and wise as anybody else but all of us

are wearing a varying degree of veil of illusion, hence we all appear

different, though the reality is that we are not different at all.

It has been seen that God always guides those who have totally

surrendered themselves, without any expectation or condition, by love

and devotion. They are so much attached with God that God takes care

of their everything, just like an innocent child who is totally

dependent on his mother undoubtedly his mother gets the thoughts in

her brain and impulses by telepathy to take care of the child. It is

a strange phenomena that everybody is so interdependent that no body

is left unattended. That God is everywhere in every body. Some how

some body is sent by Him to help the needy if s/he deserves so.

Everybody in this world reaps the fruits according to their past

deeds. Therefore, thinking this, one should go in the shelter of God

-the Almighty.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Love for Sri Krishna is the ultimate goal

Wed, 16 Sep 1998 12:15:39 -0500

The spiritual tradition in India has formulated the steps which a

human being can opt, for success in his life-journey. They lead him to

the goal of enjoying permanent bliss in the Lord's Kingdom. The

condition to choose the first path consists in the performance of

{{scriptural duties, as service to God, without any attachment to the

fruits. The second implies securing material prosperity, which should

help him in carrying out the tasks mentioned in the above-stated

injunctions. The third refers broadly to ``desire'' or ``passion'' or

``love'' which may result in distraction from his religious pursuits

if not kept under check. All the three, when observed in accordance

with the divine directives, will take him on to the goal, viz.

salvation}} (1).

When a person develops the desire for mundane objects, it cuts at the

root of his spiritual development. The non-discerning people direct

their hearts towards worldly pleasures while the knowledgeable do so

towards God. By itself desire is not to be condemned but it should be

turned towards enjoying the presence of God. Instead of showing

{{``love'' towards earthly objects}} (2), a man should focus it on

Lord Krishna. This ``love'' for Krishna is not just an accessory; it

is the ultimate. The goal is to serve God.

A child, if intelligent and even if mischievous, can be tamed and

trained to blossom into an achiever, whereas a dunce, although

harmless and incapable of doing any harm, would prove to be a failure

in life. A person with tender feelings and deep love for his wife can

be made to sublimate his heart towards God. This was the case with a

warrior who adored his wife so much that he could not brook her

suffering a trace of sunshine and hence held an umbrella over her

head. Ramanuja found him fit to be transformed and he took this

``lover'' to the sanctum- sanctorum.

Being foolish in respect of God is indeed the wisdom of the divine,

born out of intense ``love'' for the Lord. This ``passion'' to reach

God is better understood as devotion and is itself the goal for a

human being. {{With devotion, we serve the Lord in this world}} (3).

(Wednesday, September 16, 1998)

*************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Scriptures just provide the experience of the writer which may

act as source of inspiration and guidelines. Service to people is

service to God. It is hard to worship any idol after one knows the

Truth. Idol worship or worshipping any symbol may that be cross, or

any other symbol like Om, <^>, Swastika, Navgrah-Puja, etc. are good

only up to the point of escalating the interest in knowing the

reality.

Just like children play with small cars, kitchen stove, utensils, and

many other imitation toys in their childhood only until they grow old

and find the real car, real life kitchen with real stove, utensil

etc., humans pray and worship the images and idols of manifestations

of God, the past saints, and various other noble man and leaders such

as Gandhi, Nehru etc. until they realize and get to know the true or

real life godly person or God. Once we know the reality we not only

laugh at our past deeds but sometimes repent on it too. This

repentance increases the longing for God more and more. The physical

need of material prosperity is minimum and those who are lust bound

must doom sooner or later.

Thus the service to God and devotion to God can not be performed

towards some thing who we do not love. We can not love some body who

we do not know for sure. We can not know for sure until we meet or

are introduced with some one worth loving, being devoted to, and

serving. Ramayan says, "Jaane Binu Na Hoi Parteetee, Binu Parteeti

Hoi Nahi Preetee; Preeti Binaa Nahi Bhagati Didhaaee, Jimi Khagapati

Jal Ke Chikanaaee", means, "Without knowing one can not identify and

like, without liking one can not love; without love the devotion does

not get stronger, just like without water the oil can not be washed."

(2) There are three kinds of love. One -the most inferior one, is

love for material earthly objects. A person loving material objects,

which are for all practical purposes dead objects -may they be

automobile, houses, or any other fancy items, becomes a material

object full of decoration on his/her body. Other type of love is love

for people. This is by far the common love found in few people only.

Since people are alive, having a dead body and a live spirit in them,

this type of love has 50-50 chances that people (having this type) may

either become a lover of Truth, the spirit, or God, or may drift

downhill, easy way, to the material love, love for body and other

possession of spirit or self. They can be easily swayed in to the

first category of love and become a material object. The third

category of love is pure love, love for God, the self or spirit. This

is the most superior form of love. Once having it, such rarest of the

rare people can rarely, if at all, fall down to the first category.

Usually even they do not fall down to the second category because they

always look for the God, the spirit in other people. Kabira said,

"Prem Prem Sab Koi Kahe, Prem Na Chinhe Koya; Jis Vidhi Saain Milan

Hoi, Prem Kahaave Soya" means, " Every body says love but nobody

knows the true love, the true love is only that which makes you one

with God."

(3) One can not be devoted to an idol or any other symbol. Live

people has to have love with another live person. We see it in our

daily life. I love my wife because the God is in her, I love my son

because the spirit is in him, I love my daughter because the soul, the

life, is in her, I love my friend because he is alive; Can I love them

when they are dead? I will have a memory of them but I certainly can

not love them, they won't be responding to my smile or Namaskar/hello.

I can not feed them the best of feast, I can not dress them the very

best I did when they were with me. It will be my own imagination and

thoughts that they are out there somewhere listening to my remembering

them, they might be accepting my offering of flowers, clothes, food,

and drink or incense etc. Thus the whole worldly people keep going

in dark, in turmoil and those who knows this truth they cry at the

pity of their fate. Kabira said, "Chalati Chakki Dekh Kar, Diyaa

Kabira Roy; Do Paatan Ke Beech Me Bachaa Rahaa Na Koy" means, "Kabira

is crying seeing the world being grind between two rollers of this

worldly mill." But the same Kabira is rejuvenated when he finds the

real devotee of the Lord who is attached to the God, and only God, due

to his/her immense, infallible love, devotion and service to God, as

said by him, "Thahari Chakki Dekh Kar, Diya Kabira Khilla; Vo Daanaa

To Bach Gayaa, Jo Gayaa Keel Se Milla", literally it means, "Kabir is

pleased to see a stopped mill and more pleased seeing that grain which

went near the shaft was not ground to powder."

Therefore, we must pause for a minute, calm down ourselves, and think

what for I am here? If I do not know who I am, what is my true

nature, am I not wasting my time in knowing all other things? Am I

self, the un-destructible, or am I merely a perishable body? Until

we know God by relinquishing all worldly distraction we can not find

answers to many of such questions. If we are lucky and find some body

who knows the answer the process might become little easier. Hence is

the need of a preceptor and need to know the Truth, the God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Service to devotees pleases the Lord

Tue, 15 Sep 1998 08:22:18 -0500

There was a time when God, residing in temples, had spoken to some of

His ardent devotees when pleased with their service to Him or to the

community. On occasions, He had done so directly and on other

instances through those who zealously attend on Him daily (during the

worship of the idols). Twice, Lord Ranganatha at Srirangam and the

Divine Mother had conferred titles on a reputed scholar, showering

their praise for his outstanding scriptural masterpieces. However,

the recipient of this honor had a desire that acknowledging his

contribution by way of composing a hymn with 1008 verses during one

night on the glory of God's ``Padukas'' (sandals He wore in His

incarnation as Rama) in response to a challenge, he should be known as

``Paduka Sevaka''. That was Vedanta Desika (1268-1369) whose more than

100 works brim with philosophic thoughts and eulogy of Divine

qualities.

``Paduka Sahasram'' highlights Rama's mercy in having handed over His

pair of sandals to Bharata who enthroned them when He was in exile for

14 years. The regime of the ``Padukas'', with Bharata as the

administrator behind the scene, was marked by all-round prosperity.

The broad theme of this work indicates {{that life must be purposeful

and obstacles ought to be crossed and the goal achieved}} (1). A

reputed commentator on the Ramayana picked up the last sloka in the

chapter relating to God incarnate's boyhood days as the best among the

24,000 verses though everyone of them was excellent. It brings out the

core of the Visishtadwaita doctrine, viz., the Divine Mother's

extraordinary compassion towards devotees, {{the Divine Couple can

never be separated}} (2) and they readily grant asylum to those who

are penitent.

Many saints have dwelt on {{the need to serve not only the Lord but

also His representatives who have been deputize to the world as

spiritual leaders. These guides act as links between aspirants and God

and they should be honored and revered. }} (3)

Scriptures have elaborated how God has helped the human being in his

life-time in several ways, important among them being the removal of

the misconception that the body and soul are identical, or that man

need not depend on anyone. The spiritual knowledge that he secures

should reveal to him his master-vassal relationship with God.

(Tuesday, September 15, 1998)

****************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The purpose of the life, as said in various scriptures, is to

know our own self, i.e., to realize God. There are always obstacles

when one tries to go uphill "Udharvamukhi" as against going downhill

to destruction or what is known as "Adhomukhi". The purpose of

spiritual knowledge is to recognize these obstacles and get over these

to accomplish one's goal.

(2) How can the divine couple be separated? The Shri or Shakti is an

important characteristic of God. How can one separate the fragrance

of rose flower from the rose flower? The rose flower is known by that

unique fragrance. Therefore, the Rama and Sita are not two different

entities, they are ONE. The Sita is Rama's shakti, just like the

devotion is to a devotee.

(3) The only need is there to serve the God's messenger or the

spiritual Master. We do not know God; He is not seen with these

physical eyes, but we see His manifestations. We do and we can see

and know the spiritual Master who can guide us to see God. He can

provide us the necessary "Divya Drashthi or Gyan Chaksu" divine vision

when we are ready to see Him. Therefore, all scriptures of the world

rightfully proclaim it that NO one and No one can know God unless and

except going through a spiritual master. Jesus Christ said in Bible,

"No ONE can go to my father unless s/he goes through me first."

Ramayan is full of evidences to this effect, and so as Bhagawat Gita

where Arjuna has to have the divine vision from his spiritual master

-Krishna, in order to see the divine form of God.

Therefore, O' Learned Man, seek a saint who is a true living spiritual

master and get all your doubts resolved. You are Naaraayan -the temple

of the God, and then see the God -the "Nara", in this temple. The

idols of God will then become a legacy of past saints or Gods.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Unconditional nature of Divine grace

Mon, 14 Sep 1998 11:23:35 -0500

The Supreme Being is worshipped in different forms in the religion of

Santana dharma (Hinduism) and there are six major faiths under which

all other sects can be subsumed. Among them the Kaumara faith is that

which worships Skanda (Kanda, Muruga, Subramanya, Kumara) as the

Almighty. This form of God is especially important in the spiritual

tradition because He is hailed as the one who taught the highest truth

to His father Lord Siva. There have been a number of saints who have

glorified Muruga.

One of the basic features of spirituality is developing intense love

for the Supreme which extends towards his devotees and creation as

devotion takes root. {{It attests to the fact that the Lord considers

Himself a vassal of His devotee}} (1). The relationship between the

Almighty and His devotee is a special bond which transcends worldly

relationships.

The Lord's love for His creation can be experienced in His grace which

He showers on His devotees even if they do make themselves eligible

for it. The saint compares Divine grace to a mother's unconditional

love for her child. {{The hallmark of spirituality is devotion to Guru

(preceptor) because Lord Muruga is looked upon as the personification

of the Guru}} (1). (Monday, September 14, 1998)

****************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) The relationship between God and His devotee is that like the

relationship between a preceptor and his disciple or devotee, or like

a relationship between a husband and his wife. In spiritual terms,

the devotee or disciple is (considered as) the body of the Guru and

the Guru is (considered as) the soul or spirit of the disciple or

devotee. Thus it is evident that there is no existence of a devotee

without his Guru. That is why a true devotee does not have any ego,

and is always full of humility and humbleness. Then only the

spiritual knowledge flows to him and through him. When his love

becomes so immense, the devotion and service then result in God

realization.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Guru's grace essential for realizing God

Sat, 12 Sep 1998 17:36:11 -0500

{{Guru's grace essential for realizing God}} (1)

Among the saints who were devoted to Lord Rama and had His vision,

Tyagaraja is singular in that his spiritual experiences have been

recorded in his Kirtanas which continue to enthrall and inspire

countless people who are either drawn to them for their musical

excellence or exemplary devotion. All the aspects of mystic life are

well-portrayed in his songs. He was born in Tiruvarur where the other

two composers of the Music Trinity were also born which underscores

the sanctity of the place. He was named after Tyagesa, the presiding

deity of the temple there.

Tyagaraja's father Ramabrahmam was a great scholar who discoursed on

the Ramayana and at the instance of the Marathi king ruling in

Tanjavur he settled down in Tiruvayaru when Tyagaraja was seven years

old where he came under the tutelage of Sonti Venkatramayya, a great

musician. His musical acumen was such that he started composing songs

before long.

The turning point spiritually was his initiation into the {{Rama

mantra}} (2) by his Guru Ramakrishnanda. He was soon blessed with the

vision of Rama, as he diligently {{chanted the mantra}} (3) with

faith. There are internal evidences to this in his compositions. In a

Kirtana he defines the qualities of a Sadguru and refers to him as the

one who gets rid off all the undesirable qualities in his disciple by

his grace and blesses him with spiritual knowledge.

It is said, there was a traditional belief that Sage Valmiki was

reborn as Tyagaraja. His birth was unlike other mortals specifically

undertaken for the purpose of rendering the Ramayana in song. The

original Ramayana of Valmiki itself is a Kavya and its metrical verses

lend themselves to music. Lava and Kusa according to the epic sang it

before Rama at Valmiki's behest.

Since the sage himself did not have an occasion to sing the Ramayana

he is believed to have cherished this desire and reborn as Tyagaraja

to fulfill his wish. There is internal evidence in one of his songs

wherein Tyagaraja explicitly mentions the names of all the sages and

rishis of yore but does not mention Valmiki's name, the important sage

who rendered the Ramayana which is revered as the Veda, probably

indicating his identity.

In the same Kirtana he refers to Rama and Sita as his parents and

identifies his relationship with all the persons mentioned in the

epic. Though there is no proper documentation about his life except

what has come down through the oral tradition, that Tyagaraja's life

and mission were extraordinary is apparent from a perusal of his

Kirtanas. (Saturday, September 12, 1998)

*******************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Without Guru's grace nothing is possible in the spiritual world.

With Guru's grace anything and everything is possible. There have

been numerous instances evidencing it. In Ramayan it is said in

Balkand that before Rama was ready to lift the Shiv Dhanush (a

celestial bow) he said, "Gurahi Pranaamu Manahi Man Keenhaa, Ati

Laaghava Uthaaee Dhanu Linhaa;" means, "Rama bow to his spiritual

master (he had already bowed to Vishwamitraji when the later asked him

to break the bow) in his heart and lift the great bow"; then again it

is clearly stated in Uttarkand when Rama returns to Ayodhyaa after

killing Ravana and His mother Kaushalyaa asks Him, "How did you kill

Ravana who was very strong and big?" Rama replied, "Guru Vashishtha

Kul Poojya Hamaare, Inhi Kee Krapaa Danuj Ran Maare;" means, "The

spiritual master Vashishthaji is worshipped by our family, due to his

grace I could kill the demons." Actually without Guru some body

getting a spiritual knowledge is just like saying some body was born

without mother and father. Even God Himself had a Guru as said, "Guru

Bad Hai Govind Se, Tinhu To Guru Kinha" means, "The spiritual master

is higher than the God (like Krishna and Rama) even who had the Guru."

Also it is well known in Hindus that Rama and Krishna were the

incarnation of God and they are considered by most Hindus as great

incarnations, as said," Rama Krishna Se Kon Badaa, Tinhu To Guru

Kinha; Teen Loka Hai Dhani, Guru Aage Aadhin" means, "Who is bigger

than Rama and Krishna, even they had Gurus; the wealth of all three

worlds is at the command of Guru." Even the creator (Brahma), the

sustainer (Vishnu), and the destroyer (Shiva) had to have their Guru,

as said, "Hari, Biranchi, Shiva Dikshaa Linhaa, Naarada Dheemar Ko

Guru Kinha." John the Baptist has baptized Jesus Christ, Gabriel

inspired Mohammed, a monk initiated Gautam Buddha, Naarad initiated

Valmiki, Narhariji initiated Tulsidasji, Ramakrishana Paramhansa

initiated Vivekananad, Raidaasji initiated Meera, and the list is

never ending. Thus it is clear that Guru's grace is indispensable for

spiritual knowledge or knowing God, as said, "Niguraa Kare Mukti Kee

Aashaa; Mukti Payee Na Hoi Niraashaa." One can not emphasize enough

on the predominant importance of Guru's blessings and grace.

(2) Rama Mantra; what is it? Is it chanting the "Rama-Rama?" First,

a true mantra has to be universal which is good for any human in any

language. Secondly, it does not have to be chanted in words and sound

in order to be any effective. Sound is produced by a complicated

phenomena where by the sound current drops down from the initiator,

through mind and brain to the chest in lungs, where proper amount of

air is blown upward again to the throat in the voice box, sensations

from which then produce physical voice with the help of tongue and

mouth. Therefore, with all these various organs involved there can

not be any Mantra which will control or calm the mind down in order to

have a reach above it to intellect, ego, and spirit or soul. God is

beyond mind, intellect and ego. That is why Kabira said, "Saansa

Saansa Pe Naam Le, Saansa Ek Na Khoye; Kya Jaane Is Saansa Kaa, Aavan

Ho Na Hoye" means, "With every breath remember Lord's name, not even

loosing a single breath; who knows this breath might stop any moment."

Mantra is one which is remembered with each breath, and not chanted

vocally or some people even chant it with a string of beads in their

hand. Kabira said about them, "Maala To Kar Me Phire, Jibh phire

Mukha Maahi; Manavaa To Chahun Disi Phire, Ye To Sumarin Naahi" means,

"The string of beads is moving in your hand, and your tongue moves in

your mouth; your mind wanders every where, this is not the remembering

of God" and he reminds people by saying, "Maalaa Pherata Juga

Bhayaa, Gayaa Na Man Kaa Pher; Kar Kaa Mankaa Chhodi Ke, Man Kaa

Mankaa Pher" means, "An era passed while chanting God's name with a

string of beads but the filth in mind is not gone; leave this false

show and start remembering God from your heart calming down the mind."

(3) Chanting of Mantra must be in accordance with the narrative given

in item two above other wise it is futile to do that. I have visited

with a 90 years old gentleman religiously chanting Mantra since he was

a child and I humbly asked him what did he experienced which he would

very kindly pass on to me if he is pleased with me and he said he is

still trying. I asked him what are the probabilities that he would

get what he is striving for. He simply replied me that he is trying

and hope that he would get the light one day. Hope is very important

which keeps the process running, else it will come to an grinding halt

and no further inquiries are possible. Therefore, first, the Mantra

must be correct. Simply faith in any mantra is not enough. Although

there are millions of Mantra and they are all quite well and good, but

they all yield what they are meant for. Second, the mantra must be

remembered, call it chanting, correctly with every breath.

This is a very important topic, the SatGuru, Mantra and remembering

God. Mantra means advice, Updesh, suggestion, a formula, and is

commonly known as Word in English, Naam in Hindi, Tatva in Sanskrit,

Shabda in Urdu and so on. One can not remember God with a Mantra

until one knows the Mantra, and one can not know the Mantra until one

meets a spiritual master. Therefore, the important thing is to know

it from a SatGuru, the spiritual master only. Then, once the Naam is

remembered the form or Roop comes in mind, with constant remembrance

of Naam and Roop love is developed for the Naam and Roop, this love

intensifies in to devotion and finally service to the Lord. Then the

spiritual knowledge flows smoothly from Him through you and we

understand the mystery of life, the mortal body or universe, and the

immortal soul or spirit. That is spiritual knowledge, spiritual

knowledge is not quoting verses from Ramayan, Gita or Bible etc. The

spiritual knowledge is one which comes from the spirit, what we call

heart -the spiritual heart; Which is not possible unless we have

immense love in our heart for God, and not for anything else, just for

GOD and GOD alone.

With best wishes

Sincerely

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Eulogy on the Lord and His devotee

Fri, 11 Sep 1998 12:19:39 -0500

Srimad Bhagavata Mahapurana among the 18 Puranas has a unique status

and enjoys immense popularity, and its greatness has been glorified in

the Padma Purana. It was composed by Veda Vyasa and it is oft-quoted

that the sage was not satisfied even after writing the Mahabharata and

other works, and he wrote this Purana at the instance of Sage Narada

as a eulogy on the glorious deeds of the Almighty in His various

manifestations.

The epithet Srimad underscores that the Ultimate Reality is Sriman

Narayana and that the Divine Mother is always present with Him in all

His manifestations. The word Bhagavata denotes both the Almighty and

the devotee, and this Purana narrates not only the glory of the Lord

but also of His devotees, because it was for the sake of His devotees

that the Almighty incarnated from time to time.

By reading and listening to the exposition of this Purana devotion

wells up in the heart because one's mind is either absorbed in

meditation on the Lord or on the greatness of His devotees which will

only enhance one's devotion. The tradition of expounding the Purana to

a group of devotees has a long history right from the very time of its

composition.

It is said, both the Bhagavata Purana and the Vishnu Purana which is

hailed as the gem among Puranas, were important to Vaishnavas. The

term ``Vaishnava'' means not only one who is devoted to Lord Vishnu

but also {{one who has overcome the Gunas (qualities) of Rajas and

Tamas, and is Sattvic in nature. Such a person develops devotion and

intense longing for God.}} (1)

In an interlude in the Purana, Sage Sukadevji lauds Pareekshit for

having developed Sattvic quality by listening to its narration, "...as

a sequel to which lasting devotion to the story of Lord Vasudeva has

sprung up in your heart. An inquiry concerning the story of Lord

Vasudeva indeed purifies all the three persons, viz., the reciter, the

interlocutor and the audience.''

The difference between this and the Vishnu Purana is in the manner of

their treatment of the subject matter. In his commentary on the Vishnu

Sahasranama in which Sankara quotes extensively from the Vishnu

Purana, he notes that this Purana expounds philosophical concepts

directly. Even though the same concepts are explained in the Bhagavata

Purana also, {{the emphasis throughout is on devotion.}} (2)

The Bhagavata Purana is also known as Paramahamsa Samhita indicating

that it is an important text even for those who have renounced the

world (Sannyasin). The last two cantos of the Purana are very

philosophical in nature. (Friday, September 11, 1998)

*************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) True, such a person develops intense longing for God; but the God

is beyond all three Gunas, hence one has to be beyond these to know

Him or get Him. In Ramayan it is stated, "Teeni Avasthaa Teeni Guna,

Tehi Kapaasa Ten Kaadhi; Tool Tureeya Sanvaari Puni, Baatee Kare

Sugaadhi", means, "Go beyond three states (viz. Jaagrat or awakened

state, Svapna or dream state, and Sushapti or deep sleep state of

life) and three Gunas (viz. Sat-guna, Raj-guna, Tam-guna) or

properties of Jeeva or life, in to the fourth state, known as Turiyaa

(i.e., a balance of three states such that each nullifies other and

similarly for gunas also), for obtaining just a glimpse of God to have

only liberation by the path of knowledge or Gyan marg." In spite of

all this yet the devotion is not obtained, as there is no love and

service involved in knowledge. When Meera was asked how did she get

God, she replied, "Ye To Aavat Prem Ke Mol", means, "The God is only

seen by love and Love alone." Thus a devotee of God, sincerely

seeking the God only, must be above all three Gunas for God

realization. Then s/he sees God inside his own body and the devotee

gets self realization.

(2) Take any scriptures of the world, may it be Koran, Bible, Buddha

Granth, or many of the hundreds of Hindu's scriptures, known as Vedas,

Up-Vedas, many Puranas, Sanhitaas, Smratees, Shrutis, Yoga-Sutras,

etc. and practically any and all of these scriptures says only one

thing DEVOTION, starting through Love and ending in to service to God.

Go through any path, whether Karma, Gyan or Jnana, Saankhaya, Raj

Yoga, Hath Yoga, etc. it will sooner or later culminate in to the

Love, devotion and service to God.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Ignorance, cause of man's sorrows

Thu, 10 Sep 1998 12:16:50 -0500

Scriptural texts deal with two fundamental concepts which are basic to

all theistic philosophies -the goal to be attained and the method by

which the goal can be realized. All Vedantic schools are in agreement

that the Absolute (God) is the goal to be pursued by man though they

differ with regard to the relationship between the souls, world and

the Absolute. The Bhagavad Gita which occurs in the Mahabharata is one

of the three scriptural sources of Vedanta and all the preceptors have

commented on it. It is in the form of a dialogue between Lord Krishna,

who donned the mantle of a preceptor, and Arjuna -the disciple.

The Kaurava and the Pandava armies were ready for battle and the Lord

had assumed the role of Arjuna's charioteer, when all of a sudden

Arjuna refused to fight on the pretext that he did not want to be the

cause of the death of all the elders. He further reasoned that he

would not be able to enjoy ruling the kingdom won after killing all of

them. It is in this context that the Lord commenced his teachings and

hence it is necessary to understand the reason for Arjuna's volte-face.

It was not as if Arjuna had not fought before; he was a great warrior.

The Lord understood Arjuna's confusion and hence without directly

telling him to fight, taught him the highest philosophical truth to

dispel his doubts. The opening remark of Lord Krishna portrays

Arjuna's mental dilemma, ``Arjuna, you grieve over those who should

not be grieved for and yet speak like the learned; {{wise men do not

sorrow over the dead or the living}} (1).''

In discourses on the Bhagavad Gita it is said, the Lord's remark

underscores the fact that Arjuna did not have Self- knowledge. If he

had certain knowledge that the body was different from the Self (Atman

or soul) and that the Self was indestructible he would not have had

any misgivings about fighting. The Lord commenced his teaching thus,

``In fact, there was never a time when I was not, or when you or these

kings were not. Nor is it a fact that hereafter we shall cease to

be.'' The commentaries on the Gita expound their respective

philosophical standpoints at the outset, for this verse.

Arjuna's dilemma is similar to man's predicament engrossed as he is in

worldly life without the discriminating capacity to {{pursue the

spiritual end which is the goal of human life}} (2). So, through

Arjuna it is to the entire humanity that the Lord teaches the highest

philosophical truth. The most important step in this direction is to

practice {{the duties}} (3) enjoined in the scriptures according to

one's station in life. The Lord discusses this elaborately under Karma

Yoga. (Thursday, September 10, 1998)

****************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) Wise men are those who are one with the God, they merge their

identity in God, they see the indestructible self or spirit in all,

thus they do not grieve for perishable body. Most people who identify

themselves with their bodies, are not they living dead? If yes, why

be grieved over the death of a dead object. Actually, the very

existence of the dead object is due to the presence of the spirit in

it, then why not go after knowing the spirit? That will be to pursue

spiritual knowledge.

(2) When every thing else, i.e., our possessions, relatives,

education, even our own body, is left behind where from we got it,

then the only thing remain is spirit. Therefore, the goal of human

life has to be to know the spirit. There can not be any other goal.

All other goals are as transiently as the human life itself. Wise

men, knowing this truth, only practice Yoga to accomplish their goal

in this life it self. There is no next human life until the merciful

God out of His abundant bounties bless us with one.

(3) There is only one duty for us, which is to realize God. All

other duties are the duties of our servants -the ego, intellect, mind,

ten organs of senses and five gross elements and their "Prakratees" or

properties. Let them do their duties and I must faithfully perform

my duty. This can only be done by knowing the second important part

of this equation i.e., the method to accomplish the goal, (the first

part is to know the goal) through a living spiritual master and

fulfill the goal while we are living. Of all the methods, the path of

Love, devotion and service is said to be the best according to all

scriptures, saints and sages of Truth. Ignorance of this is no excuse

and is the cause of his sorrows. Therefore, one shall have the beacon

of light of wisdom to dispel the darkness of ignorance. This light

can never be obtained without a spiritual master or spiritual

knowledge.

With best wishes

Sincerely

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Merit of prostrating before devotees

Tue, 8 Sep 1998 12:27:26 -0500

{{Merit of prostrating before devotees}} (1)

The practice of bowing down at the feet of elders and devotees is

unique to the Hindu spiritual tradition. Likewise when the Supreme One

is worshipped in His different forms it is the touch of His feet which

is considered the most sacred. The scriptures relate that devotion

grows by partaking the dust of the feet of the Lord's devotees.

This is highlighted perhaps best in the Ramayana where Bharata unable

to convince Rama to return to Ayodhya instead took Rama's Padukas

(sandals) and installed them in the throne at Nandigrama and

administered the kingdom on Rama's behalf. He used to submit all

matters of the state to Rama's Padukas. What does the Padukas of the

Lord stand for? Saints have shown that the Padukas represent the

Lord's grace.

In the Srimad Bhagavata the incident of king Rahuguna receiving

spiritual knowledge points to the sanctity of the dust of the feet of

the devotees. The king was proceeding in a palanquin and a great sage

Jadabharata was made one of the bearers of the vehicle. The sage was

more concerned that no injury should be caused to any living creature

on the road and hence jumped every now and then to avoid them and in

the process the king was tossed about.

Enraged at his behavior the king reprimanded him and Jadabharata

remained calm and replied in a manner which made the king realize his

spiritual greatness. His teachings to Rahuguna includes this, ``One

does not attain this (Self-consciousness) through asceticism nor

through rituals nor by performing one's religious duties ... nor by

any other means except by sprinkling one's body with the dust of the

feet of exalted souls.''

Bharata requested Rama to give him His Padukas for the sake of the

welfare (Yogakshema) of the citizens of Ayodhya. Thus this act

underscores that by installing the Padukas on the throne Bharata

ensured that Rama's grace would protect the citizens.

Another instance in which a great devotee of the Lord had a first-hand

experience of the love and devotion of others so devoted, is that of

the meeting of Uddhava and the Gopis. Uddhava had the privilege of

being Krishna's close friend and he was not only a great scholar but

was the Lord's devotee. At Krishna's behest he went to Gokul to meet

Yashoda and Nanda, and the Gopis. After witnessing for himself their

overwhelming love and devotion to Lord Krishna he exclaimed, ``Let me

be born as one of the shrubs, creepers or herbs in Vrndavana, catching

the dust of the feet of these blessed ladies and men who trod the path

of devotion leading to Krishna.'' (Tuesday, September 08, 1998)

****************************************************************

COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) There are all kinds of many devotees. Those who have renunciated

the worldly pleasures and are full time devoted to the Lord, these so

called "Sanyaasis" Mahatmas or monks may be in a position of helping

people spiritually, but other wise by far prostrating to all other

devotees we will get what they have. If we realize the self and know

that God dwells everywhere then prostrating or wishing any human is

good. A true devotee usually sees that i.e., the God in every human.

Eventually s/he sees God in His whole creation.

Touching of feet has a very important significance. The feet is

considered as servants of man, it holds the whole body and enable the

body to go places. When ever any body touches your feet your hands

are automatically above him/her to bless. As per Bhaagwat, Lord

Vishnu is supposed to be seated there. Also the feet has a big

spiritual significance which a devotee learns as s/he advances on

spiritual path. Tulsi has clearly written that in the beginning of

the Ramayan, and the gyan chaksu or the divine light is obtained by

meditating at the Lord's feet.

Hence out of humility one should wish everybody well and respect every

body just because the same self, the spirit or soul, which is in you,

is in them also.

With best wishes

Sincerely

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God's generosity is bounteous

Mon, 7 Sep 1998 19:06:58 -0500

The compassion that the Supreme Lord showers on His devotees is

limitless. His qualities are numerous, His intellect incomparable, His

valor unrivaled and His generosity bounteous. Because of these

glorious traits, God acts as man's inseparable companion, a close

relative and an intimate friend, as the occasion warrants. This cannot

be refuted but still, it is curious that men, blind to these facts,

approach other human beings or believe in their kith and kin to help

them in times of distress.

Those who may have certain doubts about Divinity's excellencies, can

get them cleared by seeking the guidance of a spiritual leader, whom

God has specially chosen. They possess the capacity not only to dispel

darkness in the minds of persons but also remove their ignorance.

Virtuous souls find solace amidst such divine representatives (called

Gurus) when they need it or when they are not in a position to solve

knotty problems. {{Such enlightened persons will interpret the

spiritual passages correctly}} (1) and help them in gaining the right

type of spiritual vision.

{{The merits and the vast amount of scholarship of such guides can be

gauged by the conduct of disciples trained by them}} (2). The

knowledge so gained will make them firmly believe in the dispensation

of the Almighty and the hierarchy of His servants. An important factor

to be remembered is that the Divinity and His consorts are ever pure,

even during incarnations. As God Vayu (wind), the Supreme Being, keeps

track of the activities of millions of individual souls, causes them

to perform their duties in a proper manner, at the stipulated time,

and to reap the consequences in accordance with divine dispensation.

It is said God Vayu possessed 32 matchless characteristic features.

Those devoted to this god should submit their bodies, thoughts, words

and deeds and should offer only those approved food items during daily

worship. Why such offerings at all, one may ask. This act of obeisance

will remind the devotees of God's munificence and how as a bestower,

He has been so kind to humanity. If the mind can be likened to a

computer, man's words are the compact discs, the Almighty is the

manufacturer and the body is the ``opener'' responsible for projection

on the screen. This process of nature has been ordained by God. While

computers may dispense with workforce, in the divine regime, there

will be no retrenchment. God ordains, guides, and rescues from

veritable quagmire of worldly attractions and protects men when they

surrender themselves before Him. (Monday, September 07, 1998)

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COMMENTARY

Dear Friend:

(1) This is true. Most scriptures were written by saints and sages

of Truth, they had written their experience choosing different casts

and characters. Some of them have written straight, but by far no one

wrote their own experience in their own name, that will just be

boasting. And we all know, "Self praise is no recommendation." Also

most saints have written during their life time but never published it

themselves. They were kept in their custody to be given at their will

to their disciple with instructions, who have published it after they

passed away. It is therefore, hard for common men like us to

understand their intricate meaning and interpretation, specially the

sentiments and emotions the saint wants to convey. Since the author

is not around to be asked, next best choice is another saint, usually

our preceptor. Only they can give correct interpretation and meaning

of scriptures. They may not provide a scholarly answer which does not

have much use anyway but they would get the central point and explain

it in their own experience which is easily assimilated. One of the

Mahatma used to tell, "Sant Likhe Hain Grantha, Arth Karat Hain

Grahastha", means, "Saints have written the scriptures and the

ordinary persons interpret it." Will they be able to get it? The

spiritual world (Ruhaani Duniyaa) is different than the material world

(Jismaani Duniyaa). Saints and scriptures are both the subject matter

of Ruhaani world.

(2) It is said that "Before the arrival of the Nawaab Sahib his

servant with his smoking pipe arrives." That means disciples talk

about the glory of God in their broken words which itself shows that

how impressive the master would be. We all know clouds are essential

for rain and most of the time experienced people can gauge the

intensity of rainfall by seeing the color of the clouds. It is a fact

that the capacity of a saint can be gauged by the conduct and

character of his disciple. The rose is known by its fragrance and the

disciples of a true saint are like his fragrance. It is very

interesting and it is a human instinct also that no body can remain

without saying the glory of God even when they know a little, imagine

what a person knowing it all could give or tell. Will he say it all

elaborately? To say something in a nutshell is very difficult. Tulsi

said in Ramayan, "Sab Jaanat Prabhu Prabhutaa Soee, Tadapi Kahen Bina

Rahaa Na Koee;" means "The God knows it all, yet nobody could remain

without saying His glory."

Hence, everyone interested to know spiritual knowledge must seek a

preceptor, without that we can read some impressive notes or text but

the awakening of the soul deep inside us would only be possible

through some Paramhans (supreme soul) saint.

With best wishes

Sincerely

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God's generosity is bounteous