VOLUME: 17 | ISSUE:2 March-April 2019 The Secret of Success & Long Life If your general impression is that “the world is liable to fall off and break into two,” that “fate has it in for you,” that you were “born to hard luck”, that you “never had a chance and never will have one,” and that “you will not live long anyway,” then, of course, you will lose courage and without the will to spur you onto effort, you will not succeed either in your business or in prolonging your life. That pessimistic state of mind retards your digestion and has a bad effect upon your liver. Such despondent people are usually unhealthy and therefore unhappy, feeling that “there is nothing to live for’, they usually age more rapidly than optimistic people. The remedy lies in both physical and mental activity, for the same law applies to the mental organization as to the rest of your body, so that if you would keep young mentally you must exercise your brains. The list of old men, thinkers, writers, statesmen and orators, who have achieved their greatest successes in advanced years, is too long to recite, but the secret of their success in every case was, that they kept busy. - Sanford Bennett One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of oneself. - Leonardo da Vinci 3
CONTENTS 1. Amrit Chintan The Secret of Success and Long Life ........................................................................ 3 2. From Chief Editor’s Desk Let’s Gift the Society Rich Legacy of Noble Personalities ....................................... 5 3. Definitive Route to All-round Success ...................................................................... 7 4. Control of Speech and Utilization of its Power......................................................... 10 5. Science and Spirituality Sensory and Mental Levels of Consciousness........................................................... 12 6. Golden Rules for a Healthy and Disease-free Life.................................................... 17 7. The S³®khya School of Indian Philosophy............................................................... 20 8. The Secret of Overcoming Loneliness ..................................................................... 25 9. Yug Gita – 17 Sthitaprajóa Always Remains Calm and Composed................................................. 27 10. Peace Pilgrim’s Wisdom – 17 Living the Spiritual Life – 1 ...................................................................................... 31 11. Break the Hypnotic Mold of Incompetency .............................................................. 34 12. Odyssey of the Enlightened - 66 Future Calling - 2....................................................................................................... 36 13. Youth Column Do You Properly Use Your Mind Power?.................................................................. 40 14. Give Noble Sa®sk³ras, not Wealth, to the Children ................................................. 42 15. Amrit Vani What Makes Gayatri S³dhan³ Miraculous?.............................................................. 44 16. Simple Techniques of Pr³öay³ma to Stay Healthy -2 ............................................... 48 17. Amazing Facts of Polar Regions ............................................................................... 50 18. Shantikunj News ................................... (Inner Cover Pages & Back Cover Page) You have reached the pinnacle of success as soon as you become uninterested in money, compliments, or publicity. - Thomas Wolfe 4
From Chief Editor’s Desk Let’s Gift the Society Rich Legacy of Noble Personalities The present scenario is indicating towards a significant social transformation. If we watch the events happening in different folds of the society, as an impartial observer, we can easily feel the truth that the world is fast changing. The means of transport have drastically changed before our own eyes. It is hardly fifty years when we used to go from one village to another by bullock cart or a horse cart. Today such distances are crossed in minutes. In fact, going from one village to another is not at all a journey. The distance between distant countries has been made very short by the airplanes. Then this revolution has not been confined to reducing distances. The advances in the means of communication and easy accessibility of tools of information technology, have brought about so much change in the society that no one could imagine it two or three decades ago. Whether it is the discovery of internet or the mobile phone with a touch screen – they are drastically influencing the individual lifestyle as well as the social order. There can be no doubt that due to these changes the human life has become easier and more comfortable. Such discoveries and related changes should be considered auspicious, positive and essential for the human beings. However the worry is what will be the impact of the human psyche that is also changing with this transformation. What kind of legacy will we be leaving behind in the society? Will the lifestyle of the coming generation, its viewpoint regarding life and its understanding of the aim of life remain safe or get deformed? – Many awakened people have the curiosity to know the answer to this question; and this kind of worry is but natural, because in the blind race of getting sensual pleasures, material progress, prosperity and comfort, I wonder whether we are going on sacrificing the basic human values. Param Pujya Gurudev used to say that, in common language, we use two types of words – one is heritage (material and economic inheritance) and second is legacy (immaterial and cultural inheritance). He would then say that a significant question is whether we are leaving behind us a material property or a legacy for our children – the next generation. Land, house, money, jewelry, etc. come under the category of property; and, good personality, virtues, simplicity, noble goal of life, etc. are indicative of one’s legacy. A person’s legacy can be judged by his way of living, his vibrant personality, his manner of speaking, his conduct, and his good moral impressions. Noble personalities leave rich legacy. Unfortunately, today everyone seems to be engaged in amassing wealth and property and leave it to the children, but no one is seen to struggle or endeavor to leave a rich inspiring legacy to the next generation. The result is clear – today whereas the society has become rich and prosperous in many fields, it has also become poor in many other aspects. The thoughts of selfishness, greed for power, pelf and prosperity have You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him. - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe 5
penetrated the masses to an extent that it may be called as the poverty of humane values. God knows what will be the outcome of this, but what is happening before our own eyes can be called horrible and shocking. There is unabated rise in diseases, mental disorders and stress. Terrorism is at its peak. Under such circumstances, if someone feels that he will remain unaffected by it, then this is nothing more than his stupidity. If the fire is spread in the entire village, how can one save his roof from catching the flames? If the whole atmosphere is filled with smoke, how can one breathe smoothly? When the power is cut to the entire city, how can one have light in one’s home? This is nothing more than an illusion that collecting external resources, degrees and accolades, reaching a high post, making a big home, earning a respectful position can remove inner darkness. It can be removed only by inner light. A person considered rich from the point of view of having higher education, earning plenty of money or possessing a big home may not necessarily be rich in virtuous traits like honesty, empathy, selflessness, humility, patience, self-control, etc. Today, when the inner-selves of people appear to be hollow, then only the efforts of self-upliftment can fill this vacuum. Param Pujya Gurudev and Vandaniya Mataji conceived the idea of incarnation of a new human being. If that human being is rich from the point of view of nobility of character; then only the dream of dawn of golden era would be possible. Thus it is the making of noble and spiritually powerful personalities that can achieve the prime aim of the descent of Pujya Gurudev and Vandaniya Mataji on Earth. For this purpose, we should all get engaged in the s³dhan³ of self-refinement – making of our personalities rich in virtues. The aim of s³dhan³ is doing less but becoming more. It is important how much japa we have done, but it is more significant what kind of a person we have become. Our personalities should be magnetic, illumined and worth following so that others start emulating us. In the present circumstances, when even the so called great personalities seem to be running in the blind race for power, pelf and prosperity, our Gayatri Parijans would develop the courage to leave behind them a rich legacy of noble personalities. There would be no fortune bigger than this. Let us utilize upcoming Caitra Navr³tri (from April 6 to 14, 2019) for making ourselves spiritually powerful through specific austerities (tapa), mantra japa and other methods. The austerities may include, depending on one’s strength and capacity, taking s³tvika food (without spices, salt, sugar, etc); observing fast, maun vrat (silence) and brahmacarya (celibacy); etc. When this power of tapa enters the s³dhaka, it refines his personality accordingly. The energy thus gained can be retained by self-control and utilized in the desired direction. If our thoughts are noble, we will use this energy in the right direction and in due course will harvest its benefits. With prayer-filled wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Harmonious New Samvatsar, 2076, (Pranav Pandya) Nobility of spirit has more to do with simplicity than ostentation, wisdom rather than wealth, commitment rather than ambition. - Riccardo Muti 6
Definitive Route to All-round Success The desire to attain success in life comes self-confidence. In such hollowness, how can the to us naturally. What is the true measure flowers of peace and contentment are expected of success however, needs careful to bloom? consideration. After all, what use is the success that later weighs upon us with feelings like It is essential that the inspiration for whatever we hollowness and futility? If success does not do in life comes from within. If a goal has been lead to contentment and peace of mind, can it set by listening to others or by blindly following really be called success? When people who have others, then the goal must be reconsidered reached the highest pinnacles of success are found seriously. Such a goal may give bread and butter, gripped with vices like drug abuse, smoking, and and may make us look successful in other’s eyes, alcoholism, or found suffering from depression or but will never provide us inner satisfaction. Only ending up committing heinous acts like suicide, a goal that is born from the womb of originality then such a success becomes nothing but a big can ensure satisfaction and happiness. question mark. All the great people who have contributed Are we really exerting ourselves to attain success something worthwhile to the world have followed at the cost of inner peace, contentment and their inner voice. While treading on their chosen happiness? Success attained at this price definitely path, they have had to face opposition of the cannot be termed as a holistic success. Along with narrow mindedness of their own family members, intellectual progress, success can only be relevant friends and well wishers many a time. But despite if it is attained along with progress in emotional, stiff opposition, when they kept moving on the moral and spiritual domains as well. Here are a path resolutely, in the end everyone accepted the few sutras which can be adopted to walk on the merit of their decision and even began to tread on path to an all-round, holistic success: the same path. 1. Realizing our originality To realize and achieve the goal of life, it is There is no shortcut to a holistic, long-term essential to give definite priority to tasks that lead success. It has its own well-defined steady route, to the goal while carrying out the regular daily and it has to be attained by paying the right price. activities. Nothing can be attained for free. If ever anything is attained for free it has no value in the long- 2. Priorities must be clearly defined daily term, because neither will it lead to a feeling of The clearer the priorities, the more effective the fulfilment, nor to any increase in self-esteem or life will be. A big reason for failures and creation Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy. - Norman Vincent Peale 7
of stress in life is the lack of clarity in assignment emotional disturbances perturb a person then of priorities. This leads to a lot of wastage of this flow can get obstructed. precious time; and disorder; and lack of proper planning becomes a part of life. It is a fact that 4. Attain emotional equipoise if the goal of life is clear, daily priorities will be Individualistic success that isolates one from very clear too. With this clarity, all the energies of friends, colleagues and the society can never be our body, mind and spirit get focused and all the fulfilling. Success feels enriched with worthiness tasks get accomplished efficiently. only when it leads to not just personal progress but to the welfare of the society as well. For a If the goal is not clear then it becomes difficult successful life, a balance in all practical aspects to decide what is important and what is not. of life is essential. Along with external success Time gets wasted in unimportant activities and and recognition of talent in the social circles, when the assessment time nears, a realization nourishment of inner emotional being is required, of all the important tasks that could not be because this is what leads to deep and thorough completed sets in. The pressure of pending tasks satisfaction in life. then significantly enhances stress. Stability and peace of mind get lost in this state and life gets For this it is important that we look beyond our embroiled in an emergency like situation. When personal interests and also think about the welfare tasks are prioritized well, such situations of of those who depend on us and of the society in emergency never arise and a strong basis gets general. When we meet others, we should not created for enhancing creativity in a person. just keep speaking but must listen to others as well. Being a good listener is a very good quality 3. Creativity must become an integral part of life while interacting with others. Such an empathetic When activities and daily routine get properly conduct acts like a soothing balm for the distressed harmonized, it becomes possible to undertake - unhappy minds and also leads to own emotional creative activities which otherwise would not upliftment. It is important to keep track of how find a place in the stresses and hustles of daily useful are we proving to others. If we develop life. Balance and stability of mind is the most sensitivity and honesty towards ourselves as fundamental need and such a state of mind is well as others, we progress emotionally, and our created when life gets organized. An organized creditability and authenticity increases manifold life leads to creation of a conductive workplace in our public lives. This is an important basis of a as well; and when inner state of mind and holistic successful life. outer actions of a person are balanced, stream of creativity automatically springs forth from 5. Pay attention to spiritual aspects as well within. And when creativity finds expression Emotional progress initially gets confined to in accordance to a person’s liking, ability and thinking and caring for our own self or for whom talent, it fills his entire life with a gentle flow we are attached to. To expand its domains further of melody and deep satisfaction. However, and to make ourselves emotionally richer it is if the practical side of life is not balanced and necessary to move beyond selfishness and egoism Successful people are always looking for opportunities to help others. Unsuccessful people are always asking, ‘What’s in it for me?’ - Brian Tracy 8
and enter into spiritual domains. This is like day, and efforts should be made daily to sharpen diving into the deepest depths of our inner-selves discretionary wisdom. Whole day should be or flying in the highest skies of life. This spiritual spent with awareness and then in the night, the journey sprouts by spending a few moments habit of writing a diary should be developed to in contemplation and introspection daily, and introspect and analyse what transpired during blooms with sincere study of self and spending the day. A resolve should be made to correct the time with great spiritual beings. mistakes committed and to do something new the next day. Testing ourselves daily, and putting Selfless service of society, regular prayers and in best efforts to overcome the challenges of meditation make the spiritual experience richer, life, helps us to keep treading up the stairs of and balance and stability at a deeper level is excellence in life. attained in life. By connecting with supreme consciousness a person attains sufficient 7. Follow the inner voice strength to take on all adversities in the external Following the inner voice is the most important. world with equanimity. A deep inner vision This voice originates from inner core of the heart. gets developed towards life. When decisions It is truly a Godly voice. It is so gentle that it are made using this vision, they turn out to be can be easily suppressed, but it also is so clear perfect and without any flaws. that it cannot be ignored. When it is not heard it grows weak, but when listened to and followed it 6. Introspect daily becomes stronger and louder. It leads to increase For balance and stability in life, it is essential in sensitivity towards the world and sharpens the to introspect daily and measure our actions power of discretion. Honesty within and outer against the criteria listed above. Awareness support of the divine help us progress on the path about our thoughts, conduct, emotions and to holistic all-round success and help us reach the resolves should be maintained throughout the highest goal of attaining excellence in life. “He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; Who has enjoyed the trust of pure women, the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; Who has never lacked appreciation of Earth’s beauty or failed to express it; Who has left the world better than he found it, Who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had; Whose life was an inspiration; Whose memory a benediction.” - Bessie Anderson Stanley Integrity is the essence of everything successful. - R. Buckminster Fuller 9
Control of Speech & Utilization of its Power Almighty has bestowed man with thoughts and speech as a means for conserving the ability of speech so that he may our energies. express his thoughts in spoken words. Expressing through writing came Using our ability to talk is an inevitable part much later. But expressing through voice of our daily lives which is why we tend to can be considered as the first ever method forget how important it is. We end up speaking in which a person expresses himself in life. whatever comes to our mind and speaking This also is the most used and simplest without considerable thought has become the method of communicating what’s transpiring order of the day. Truth is that more amount of in one’s mind – be it emotions or happiness energy gets expended when we talk than when or worries or pain or anything else. Even we do physical work. So, it’s important that we children learn to speak first before learning give serious thought to how we use this important to write or read because one cannot survive energy. Speech is directly related to our mental without expressing oneself. It will not be an energies which is why eight hours of physical exaggeration to say that spoken word is the work is equivalent to one hour of mental work. basis for human expression. Keeping all these facts in mind, observing silence While speech plays a vital role in our existence is considered as an efficient means of protecting and expression, it also happens to be the primary our mental energies. Lord Shri Krishna in cause for the loss of our mental energies. Srimadbhagwad Gita extols the significance of Speech also is the medium through which we practicing silence and places it in the league of express our ego, lust, anger, hatred, desires and mental penance. ambitions. All our suppressed emotions and passions get expressed through our voice in Mana¡pras³da¡ saumyatwa® maunam³tmavinigraha¡| the form of words. This is why, controlling and Bh³vasa®ïuddhirityetat tapo m³nasamucyate|| utilizing our speech is a very important means (ïloka 16, chapter 17) for conserving our energies. Meaning: Serenity of mind, warm-heartedness, If we practice merely controlling our thoughts silence, mental restraint and purity of thoughts and ignore our speech, whatever mental are considered as mental austerity. energies we intended to conserve will now find their way out in the form of words. Hence Once mind is brought under control, even big we should certainly consider restraint in both tasks get accomplished easily. When Maharshi Sometimes not speaking says more than all the words in the world. - Colleen Hoover 10
Vedavyasa was composing Mahabharata and Those who talk less and conserve their energy dictating it, the task of putting it in writing was end up being good listeners and comprehend taken up by Lord Ganesha. But while doing the other person better. This opens the doors to this great task, Ganesha observed Mauna or knowing and learning something new. Those silence so that no disturbance could deflect his who are interested in talking rather than listening focus away from what he was doing. These lose many such opportunities of learning from principles can also be applied in daily life. If a others. Also, those who speak more often tend task requires utmost focus and attention, then to get excited and get into animated discussions one can try to use the technique of Mauna for that further lead to loss of vital energies. Such guaranteed success. This is why maintaining continuous depletion of vital energy in due silence is considered to be an integral aspect course leads to mental weakness that makes a for conservation of mental energies. person restless and intolerant. This can also be perceived as a permanent damage to and Talkativeness not only depletes energy but downfall of one’s personality. also can create bitterness in relationships. Those who are in the habit of gossiping, The intention of writing these facts is to bring complaining, criticizing and spreading the attention of s³dhakas in the direction of hatred will often be seen having strained conserving vital energies by practicing restraint in relationships. When people are in the habit speech. By maintaining Mauna (silence), speaking of talking without thinking, they fail to even less, speaking politely and speaking only when grasp the effect of their words on the other necessary help in enhancing mental energies, person. This is why in addition to talking developing love in relationships, resolving issues less or even remaining silent, it might be in a holistic manner; and also attain both material worthwhile to speak politely and only when and spiritual success owing to the increased focus required. This ensures that one will conserve obtained by improved mental vigor. Therefore spiritual energy and also maintain cordial consider judicious use of your speech as a form of relationships in material world. spiritual s³dhan³ and reap benefits in your life. “We cannot control the way people interpret our ideas or thoughts, but we can control the words and tones we choose to convey them. Peace is built on understanding, and wars are built on misunderstandings. Never underestimate the power of a single word, and never recklessly throw around words. One wrong word, or misinterpreted word, can change the meaning of an entire sentence and start a war. And one right word, or one kind word, can grant you the heavens and open doors.” - Suzy Kassem Listen with curiosity. Speak with honesty. Act with integrity. - Roy Bennett 11
Science and Spirituality Sensory and Mental Levels of Consciousness All living beings in this world are that make possible the perceptions of ‘signals’ diverse functional expressions of the of the sense-organs and the locomotion activities omnipresent, eternal Consciousness- respectively. The sensory nerves are linked with Force (CF) manifested in a form (physical body). the sense-organs. Whatever we smell, see, hear, It is because of this life-force in functional state eat, or experience by touch is perceived with the that a biological cell is different from the physical help of the instant signal processing between the matter or chemical substance. Faculties of CF are sensory nerves and the brain. The motor nerves and most evolved in human beings as compared with their control unit in the brain conduct the activities other creatures. It is only in the humans that it of movement, walking, chewing, bathing, reading, exists beyond the sensory experiences. We will etc. This ‘physical’ understanding of the nervous highlight these distinct levels of consciousness system, together with the general anatomy and in scientific light and discuss the importance associated physiological functions of the brain of understanding and making best use of this have been known to the scientific community precious source towards holistic well-being and since the advent of neurological research in the further evolution. past century. Sensory Level of Consciousness – Manifested With progress of research in neurosciences, many in Physical Body: secrets of the brain have been unfolded, including the Functions and perception of sensory-level of secretion of hormones and other neuro-chemicals consciousness is processed via the brain and its and their effects on physiological, biochemical sensory network of the nervous system. As most functions and emotional and other psychological of us know, our brain has a network of billions experiences. However, controlling these functions of neurons (nerve-cells), which because of the by external means is still a challenge for modern marvelous source of continuous energy and Medical Sciences and Technology. Much more guidance of CF, is superior to any functional remains to be researched on the astonishing super-most computer or ‘intelligent’ machine that functions and power of the human brain [1-2]. could ever be invented. The negligibly tiny structure (spherical The nerves - ‘biological channels’ (of information diameter smaller than thousandth part of an processing) of inter-connected neurons are spread inch, and weight lesser than a billionth fraction in the entire human body and constitute the Nervous of an ounce), yet the immense capabilities of System. These are broadly categorized as of two the neurons seem to set living illustration of types – the sensory nerves and the motor nerves; the following Vedic quote on the omnipresent Consciousness cannot be accounted for in physical terms, for consciousness is absolutely fundamental. - Erwin Schrödinger 12
Consciousness Force – Añorañºy³n Mahato The amount of activation potentials and the Mahºy³n (Meaning: subtler than the subtlest rate of corresponding bio-electrical currents in and greater than the greatest). Indeed, the memory regions inside the brain affect the these basic units of brain-functions and their intensity and durability of the memory recorded gigantic, self-regulating network, appear at any instant of time. as evidential expression of the limitless potentials of CF. Then what to say about its Creative manifestation of the powers of mind also manifestation in the mind? materializes at the physical level with the help of bio-electrical functions of the brain. Like those Mental Level of Consciousness: of a machine or a physical organ, the components More evolved and marvelous functions and and functional units of the brain also need some faculties of CF in the humans are those at the energy all the time. Continuous supply of oxygen ‘extrovert consciousness’ (expressed in behavior through blood circulation provides the necessary and deeds) or mental (intellectual and emotional) fuel to this living machinery. In the young age level. Prominent among these are - memory, this ‘device’ (brain) is new and makes efficient intelligence, thoughts, and emotions [1-4]. distribution and consumption of energy available to it. The corresponding energy supplying All these behavioral and mental faculties of CF are subsystems are also fresh and naturally energized naturally activated up to a certain level in almost at that stage. Therefore, the physiological and all mentally healthy people. Most often these are bioelectrical functions of brain are efficiently ‘taken for granted’, and, like the physical body carried out in normal children and youths. This and its marvelous sensory and motor functions, is why they usually possess sharper memory than one hardly pays attention to carefully use, nurture the older ones. Their natural grasping ability too and refine these precious gifts of life. It is with is quite high in the initial phases of life. an objective to remind the readers of the vital importance and enormous scope of this treasure Yoga exercises of pr³ñay³m (deep breathing in of potentials we will outline all these in the a controlled manner) help harmonize oxygen following sections. Discussion on the gradually supply to the brain; dhy³na-dh³rañ³ (meditation) more sublime, powerful, and majestic faculties help concentrate bioelectrical energy available of CF will continue in some successive articles to the brain and thereby generate a controlled under the column “Scientific Spirituality”. excitation, which accelerates the inter-neuronal activities. Adept practice of these elementary Memory: s³dhan³s of spiritual refinement on regular basis Neuroscientists consider the memory functions results in sharpening and empowering the memory as dependant on the flow of bioelectrical currents along with enhanced mental concentration. through the information transmitting channels - the nerves.As blood circulates through the arteries, Intelligence: similarly, some ions/ionized biochemicals also Intelligence is a refined faculty of consciousness. flow through specific connections of the nerves. Most often it is identified as “intellect”. One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious. - C.G. Jung 13
Intellect is broadly defined as an advanced practiced sincerely and regularly, would help us ability of mental perception, cognition, pattern sharpen and augment these precious faculties on recognition, learning new skills, reasoning, our own[3]. But more important is to wisely use hypothesizing, postulating, conceptualization, these resources of CF via positive, constructive, imagination, planning, and decision-making and righteous thoughts. along with the active potential of envisaging and generating constructive ideas. Coherence Thoughts: of these abilities and their creative expression Human body is a wonderful system that and/or translation into action, is essential for functions on many kinds of energies under the complete manifestation of intelligence. auto-regulation of its super (bio)-computer - the brain. But most prominent, intense and radiant of Our education system and professional profiles the powers a human being is endowed with is the also lay emphasis on intellectual talents and skills. thought-power of its mind (sublime functional Indeed, modern civilization and the wonders of core via CF in which the ‘intelligence’ and scientific and technological developments we see creativity of the brain/mind is manifested). today are living examples of the power of intellect. Cultural and creative streams of art, social Ascent of human civilization is in fact the ascent sciences, and literature, represent soft (linked with of human thoughts. It is said that what becomes emotions and imaginations) domains of intellect. of one depends upon what he thinks. Indeed, Mathematics, physical and natural sciences, law, our thoughts express our ideas and intrinsic etc, correspond to rather hard (sans emotions) desires and translate them into deeds. But what aspects like philosophical theory, rigor, logical transforms the nature of our thoughts and what is reasoning. Subjects like business-management, the source of thought-power? planning, politics, diplomacy, administration, etc, predominantly thrive on intelligence related with Most of us define and experience thoughts as the vision, awareness, fast and practical decision- language of the conscious mind and regard thought- making, communication skill, etc. power as the impact of thoughts on intellectual perceptions and activities. Its inherent root in the Most of us are fascinated by the wonders of bright inner self is therefore difficult to be accessed. We intellect. Also, to varied degrees and with diverse shall discuss these issues at greater details in the reasons, many of us aspire to be intellectually next article. Here, it would be sufficient to note that sharp. But do we really make adept use of our every vibration, every perception and expression memory and intelligence? Do we sincerely of the mind (the conscious mind, the intellect, as attempt to ‘glaze’ our memory and intellect? Well, well as the inner mind) is a thought. This is how we don’t have to go to any specialized training emotion is regarded as a higher order thought and school or grooming centre for it. (That way, such willpower as a sublime expression of the thought- schools, if any, can only provide some guideline power. Willpower could also be generated by and lend only partial support). There are many intense control and focusing of elevated thought- effective methods and yoga-exercises that, if power. Once awakened, the willpower or force The language of light can only be decoded by the heart.- Suzy Kassem 14
of intrinsic inspiration can help in activating the and hence the secretion of hormones itself largely otherwise dormant layers of mind and thus induce depends upon the internal emotions [1-2, 4]. intellectual and emotional evolution. Emotional intelligence: Emotions: Psychiatrist Dr. William Glasser’s theory It is difficult to define “emotion” in words. of the human control system states that What we often experience as primary emotions behavior is composed of four simultaneous are - anger, fear, sadness, joy, disgust, surprise, components: deeds, ideas, emotions, and curiosity, acceptance, love, etc. Emotion as physiological states. He asserts that we choose a subject of scientific research has multiple the idea and deed; but the associated emotions dimensions: behavioral (psychological), and physiological states cannot be chosen physiological, subjective, and cognitive. independently. He also further asserts that internal choices (conscious or unconscious) Many psychologists adopt what is popularly known cause emotions instead of external stimuli. as the ABC model, which defines emotions in terms These assertions accord with more detailed of three fundamental attributes: A. physiological and sagacious explanations given by Vedmurti arousal, B. behavioral expression (e.g. facial Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya [1-4]. expressions), and C. conscious experience, i.e., the subjective feeling of an emotion. All three attributes As per the comprehensive definitions given by are necessary for a full fledged emotional event, the ancient Indian sages (the Rishis) emotion though the intensity of each may vary greatly. (bh³van³) is a spontaneous expression of an intrinsic impression, innate perception or a Emotions and Hormones: feeling (anubh¿ti) or a psychological reaction or Emotions are thought to be related to activity response. In simple terms emotions (bh³van³) in brain areas that direct our attention, motivate not only constitute the subtle language of our behavior, and determine the significance of the mind, they are also the reflections of the what is going on around us. For a long time, sensitivity of our inner self. As the latter is hormones secreted through the endocrine glands influenced by the sansk³ras - impressions of were regarded as the ‘chemicals of emotions’ the past, and the earlier lives carved/assimilated and some researchers claimed that emotions are in the citta (unconscious mind), the science of generated and controlled through hormones; e.g. emotions is explained and experimented by the release of adrenalin results in feeling of fear etc. Indian sages in the domain of spirituality. Further research indicated that though there is a strong correlation between certain hormones and The subconscious and unconscious roots of neurotransmitters and natural feelings of fear, emotions, intuition, clairvoyance, precognition, anxiety, joy and depression, the latter cannot be sublime intelligence, etc, and deep emotions and caused or generated at will by ‘infusing’ those spirituality, are realized with spiritual ascent. hormones. In fact, the scenario is other way round. These are subject matter of deeper science of Functioning of the endocrine and nervous system consciousness. In the present article, we have Sooner or later on this journey, every traveler faces the same question: Are you a human intending to be a god, or a god pretending to be human? - Eric Micha’el Leventhal 15
focused only on those aspects of consciousness Acharya Samagra Vangamaya” Vol. 18 functions that are associated with intelligence and Akhand Jyoti Sansthan, Mathura, (1995). emotions that most of us experience within and around us in ordinary life. 2. Human Brain – Astonishing Boon of the Omnipotent. [English Version based on Most amazing, and hard to decipher are Chapters 1& 2 of [1] above]. Shri Vedamata the functions and experiences of CF at the Gayatri Trust, Shantikunj, Haridwar. (2rd subconscious, unconscious, and extrasensory ed. 2016) levels - intrinsic tendencies, deeper desires, and sublime (e.g. mystical, spiritual) and supernatural 3. Practical Ways to Sharpen the Intellect expressions of intelligence, thoughts and emotions and Memory. [English Version based on fall in this evolved category of existence and Chapter 3 of [1] above]. Shri Vedamata manifestation of CF. We shall delve upon these Gayatri Trust, Shantikunj, Haridwar. (1st aspects more deeply in successive articles. ed., 2015; 3rd Print, 2017) References: 4. Adhy³tmika Manovigy³na – set of about 20 books authored by Pandit Shriram 1. Chamtak³rº ViïeÌat³on Se Bhar³ M³navi Sharma Acharya. Publ. Yug Nirman Yojna, MastiÌka. “Pandit Shriram Sharma Mathura. (1st ed. 1985) Cosmic Dance Modern physics has shown us that movement and rhythm are essential properties of matter; that all matter, whether here on Earth or in outer space is involved in a continual cosmic dance. The Eastern mystics have a dynamic view of universe similar to that of modern physics, and consequently it is not surprising that they, too, have used the image of the dance to convey their intuition of nature. A beautiful example of such an image of rhythm and dance is given by Alexandra David-Neel in her ‘Tibetan Journey’, where she describes how she met a Lama who referred to himself as a ‘master of sound’ and gave the following account of his view of matter: All things ….. are aggregations of atoms that dance and by their movements produce sounds. When the rhythm of the dance changes, the sound it produces also changes…. Each atom perpetually sings its song, and the sound, at every moment, creates dense and subtle forms. The metaphor of cosmic dance has found its most profound and beautiful expression in Hinduism in the image of dancing God Shiva. …Shiva’s dance symbolizes …eternal life-death rhythm which goes on in endless cycles. -Fritjof Capra (From: The Tao of Physics) The loudest preacher in the world is your conscience, the cleverest is wisdom, the rowdiest is passion, the surest is truth, the purest is love, and the highest is God. - Matshona Dhliwayo 16
Golden Rules for a Healthy and Disease-free Life The key to a happy, balanced and Self-control - successful life is a healthy body. Whether It is the basis of physical fitness. The chief it is material progress and prosperity cause of every type of ailment and disease is or spiritual development, everything remains lack of self-control. It leads to the dissipation at bay in the absence of physical fitness. All of energy and diminishes the immunity of the the four Puru̳rthas (primary endeavors) of body, due to which even minor factors begin to Dharma, Artha, K³ma and Mokïa are possible cause diseases. The types of indulgence ruining only when one is healthy. Our scriptures have the health of most people are related to eating, mentioned that - ‘Ïarºra m³dhyama khalu living style and sense organs. dharma s³dhanam’. It means that the body is the medium to fulfill all the human obligations. Therefore, the first rule to stay fit is to observe Therefore, it is our primary duty to look after restraint in eating, which is widely being violated it. It is possible to build a firm foundation of a these days. It has now become a trend of our healthy life by following certain universal and lifestyle to eat anything at any time. Driven by well known principles. taste, we do overeating even when the stomach gets full. One hardly cares to analyze the Most of the physical diseases and disorders necessity of the body, quality of food or whether which have distressed the human life are the it is beneficial for the body or not. consequences of disorderly lifestyle. This fact gets substantiated by the increasing The quantity of food depends on the type of instances of diseases like diabetes, work one does. It is natural that there would be hypertension, heart stroke and obesity. None a difference in the diet of a person who performs of them were even known to our villages twelve hours of intense physical labour in the and suburbs a few decades ago. But today, field and the one who does twelve hours of they have almost become an integral part of sedentary work on a chair. In fact, the scriptures our public life. Even today if a person can have instructed the spiritual seekers to eat only take out time from his busy life to observe half of their capacity. Whatever may be the case, certain rules and follow a disciplined routine food should be eaten in only that quantity which and some tried-and-tested principles, then does not impede our ability to work or makes one can stay protected from these diseases us lazy. One should eat only when he feels and disorders, which are a burden on the life intensely hungry. Eating without hunger is just of many people. The following are some of like putting wood into an extinguished fireplace, these golden rules: which only gives rise to smoke. When the heart is at ease, the body is healthy. - Chinese proverb 17
Food should be chewed properly, so that the increases obesity in the body, which increases intestines need not do the work of teeth. The the risk of threatening diseases like diabetes, food eaten hurriedly proves to be very heavy for heart stroke, etc. The requirement of physical the stomach. Half of the energy of the stomach activity may be fulfilled by exercising daily and gets used up in digesting such food. Our meal performing certain Asanas (physical postures). should be easy to digest, as far as possible seasonal, pure and vegetarian. It may be changed Morning walk is extremely beneficial in this according to the tendency of the person, his context. Deep breathing in the pure morning region, time, circumstances and work pattern. It breeze rejuvenates the mind and body and makes is more important to monitor the quantity of food them active. Light exercises and simple yogic especially during the period when one is doing postures can also be included in this routine; s³dhan³. Half of the stomach should be filled taking out only 30 to 45 minutes for this daily with food, one fourth with water, while one fourth routine are sufficient. should be left for circulation of air. If the distance of your office or workplace is not Food should be eaten only when the mind is calm far away from your home, then you can walk and composed. Toxic elements are secreted from down to it rather than covering this distance by the body during the state of tension and stress, a vehicle. This would fulfil the requirement of which distort the digestive system and also have exercise. If the distance is a bit longer, a bicycle an adverse effect on the general health. On the could be used. All these are the general beneficial other hand, in the state of happiness the digestive principles to maintain and retain health. Today, we system works with complete efficiency. are lost in the rat race of life to such an extent that we are ignoring even these simple things, which Along with proper diet, another prerequisite in due course would make the body a reservoir for fitness is restraint of sense organs. Enjoying of diseases; and then, we will immensely pay the senses within the bounds of moral limits for that small negligence. This routine can also is beneficial for health. Birds and animals act be clubbed with a daily session of Pranayama, under the influence of their natural instincts which can be performed under proper guidance to and lead a healthy and disease-free life. On the benefit our body and the mind. other hand, man ignores the nature and gets into overindulgence through which he ruins his own A relaxing and deep sleep is a tonic for both the body health. Restraint of sense organs tightens the chief and the mind. Along with proper food and exercise, medium of energy dissipation which increases the rest is also equally important. The most important vitality and becomes the basis of a healthy life. part is the sleep, which acts as a tonic. A deep sleep freshens up the mind and body and compensates for Requirement of physical activity - the intensive activity during the day. A daily sleep Doing physical activity is also as important of six to eight hours is sufficient. Sleeping very less as observing restraint; lack of activity leads to or more than required both are harmful. The matter accumulation of calories present in food. This of emergency is different, but in the daily routine The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, not to worry about the future, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly. – Buddha 18
one should sleep for such a period of time so that and soothing, is extremely beneficial for our he feels fresh afterwards. Various researches have health. Its life-giving air and serenity infuses a found that incomplete sleep for three consecutive new vigour into the life. Therefore, one should days may decrease the immune power by 60%. find opportunities to go on touring and travelling Therefore, adequate sleep and relaxation is a must. towards the forests, farms, mountains and lakes. A short nap could be taken for a few moments after If such a surrounding is available nearby, then it lunch, which will help in relaxation. is a blessing. It should be considered as God’s gift given to you for a healthy life. Simple living and high thinking - Peaceful and happy life is also a hidden secret Spiritual strength is a firm basis of a healthy for a healthy life. No matter how much a tensed life - and worried person eats, he would seldom be Performing a minimum spiritual pursuit daily with healthy. On the contrary, a happy person would the aim of spiritual development proves to be an stay healthy and strong even by eating dry bread. elixir for our overall health. Few moments spent Here, one should keep in mind the percept - in introspection and worshipping God infuses ‘Simple living and high thinking’. A contented a new ray of hope and vitality into our life. It and peaceful life is no less than a boon. On the nourishes our life at the deepest level. The faith in other hand, a dissatisfied life full of desires and divinity which we get from this process upholds aspirations is devoid of relaxation and sleep and our courage and zeal even in the most difficult remains unhealthy even amidst various resources. circumstances, which, in turn, becomes the basis of a healthy life. On the contrary, the life which is Well-organized and balanced routine - devoid of faith gets entrapped into hopelessness Over half of the tension and anxiety is caused by and tension which gradually drains the life energy. haphazard and unorganised daily routine. While, well managed routine makes life rhythmic and By following these simple rules, a person is an effective remedy for keeping the mind free can easily lay the foundation of a healthy and from tension. This is so because tension gives disease-free life. Then there would neither be the rise to numerous diseases while stress-free life need of any doctor nor of wasting one’s time and keeps a person healthy. The company of nature money in these pursuits. Therefore, it is essential proves extremely useful in this task. for everyone to keep trying to incorporate these principles into his life to the extent possible so Association with nature is extremely beneficial - that this body, which is the abode of God, could The lap of Mother Nature, which is pure, tranquil be adorned by the jewel of health. Healing is impossible in loneliness; it is the opposite of loneliness. Conviviality is healing. To be healed we must come with all the other creatures to the feast of Creation. - Wendell Berry Good health and good sense are two of life’s greatest blessings. - Publilius Syrus 19
The S³®khya School of Indian Philosophy The word S³®khya (= Sa® + Khya), ages. Many scholars of the later ages have cited according to Sanskrit etymology and his analysis; notable among these works are - interpretation means first-ever thorough Kumaril Bhatt’s treatises titled “Shlokvartik”, counting or analysis of the elements (of Nature). “Bhojvratti”, “Medhatithibashya”. It also means thorough study (of Nature and Life). Erudite scholars like Varshaganya, Jaigishavya, Sa®khy³® Prakurvarte Caiva Prak•ati® Ca Vodhu, Deval, etc have also been respected Pracakïate | Acharyas of Sa®khya. Vigyan Bhikshu was a highly revered scholar in the 16th Century. The Tatv³ni Ca Caturvinïattena S³®khya® “Samkhyasutra” and its commentary “Samkhya Prakºrttitam || Pravachan Bhasya” are both regarded as his key contributions. He was an independent Meaning: It deals with counting (sa®khy³) thinker; therefore his interpretations and of the elements of Nature with thorough study explanations are based on, and also discuss the and analysis. views of philosophers of other schools, mainly the Vedanta philosophers. Ishwar Krishna At present there are very few scholars who have was another sagacious Acharya; his work on deep knowledge of all aspects of this first (premier) Sa®khya dates back to 200 BC. He wrote a darïana of Indian schools of Philosophy. comprehensive treatise “Samkhya Karika” which presents Sa®khya philosophy based on Maharshi (great rishi) Kapil is regarded as the tantra. His explanations are also compiled as founder of this darïana. This Vedic sage (rishi) “Kanakasaptati”, “Suvarnasaptati”. is revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He had realized and presented the S³®khya Several scholars, who do not agree with the philosophy (darïana) in the form of some philosophy of S³®khya, criticize it as an sutras1 (formulae, which were later on scripted advocate of atheism. They argue that Nature as couplets in Sanskrit prose and verse). As alone has been the focus of this school of thought referred in the Puranas and other ancient Indian and it does not make any mention of the supreme texts on philosophy, later on his direct disciple creator (God) who has created Nature (and the rishi Asuri had propagated the knowledge entire universe). In fact their argument appears encoded in these sutras. Asuri’s first disciple prejudiced as S³®khya Darshana, in the original Panchshikh wrote a “Sutra Grantha” and “Shasti views of Rishi Kapil regards the entire existence Tantra”. Muni Vindhyavas was a very popular (of matter and life) as consisting of 25 elements, Acharya of Sa®khya Darshana in the later My philosophy is: Life is hard, but God is good. Try not to confuse the two. - Anne F. Beiler 20
of which, 24 elements are classified as those of and experience of Prak•ati from which 16 Nature (Prak•ati) – material manifestation of prominent tools/mediums (of perceptions and Nature; one single element is referred as the experience of Nature) and manifestations arise. consciousness element. Although this element As these exist in diverse forms and functional is not explicitly referred as the supreme power states, these are collectively termed in the (God), the deeper analysis of the Sa®khya ancient scriptures of S³®khya darïana as the treatises would show that the qualities of this 16 Vik•atis. The 8 prak•atis are - (i) the M¿la element (referred as Pur¿Ìa) imply it as God. Prak•ati (the self-existent shadow of Pur¿Ìa or the foundation for reflection of Pur¿Ìa, Although Pur¿Ìa (which implies the and consequent manifestation of Nature and supreme expression of Consciousness-Power, cosmic creation); (ii) Mah³tatva (buddhi – i.e., God) is not referred as the up³d³na source of cognitive and other functions of k³raña2 but has been recognized as nimitta consciousness); (iii) Aha®k³ra (sense of self- k³raña3 (the principal facilitator or doer) being; sense of experience); (iv) Ïabda (eternal of the creation and manifestation of Nature element of sound; sense of hearing); (v) Sparïa (S•aÌÚi). For example in a sutra of the third (sense of touch); (vi) R¿pa (sense of vision); chapter it says - “Ak³ryatveapi Tadyoga¡ (vii) Rasa (sense of taste), (viii) Gandha (sense Par³vaïy³ta” - (S.D. 3.55). Further, “Sa Hi of smell). The last five are the five kinds of Sarvavit Sarvakart³” - (S.D. 3.56), meaning perceptions that are experienced because of that-Pur¿Ìa is the source, abode (foundational buddhi and aha®k³ra. support) and controller of everything that exists in Nature. The next shloka more The 16 vik•atis are identified in S³®khya darïana explicitly underlines the supremacy of God as as - Panch Mahabhutas (five basic elements - Ed•aïeïvara Siddhi¡ Siddh³. - Ether, Air, Fire, Water, and Earth); Panch Gyanedriyan (five faculties of perceptions and Core Concepts of Sa®khya Philosophy: cognition - nose, eyes, tongue, skin and ears); As mentioned above this darïana mainly Panch Karmendriyan - ( five organs of action - recognizes life and Nature as the perpetual play Mouth, Hands, Legs, genitals and rectum). The of Pur¿Ìa and Prak•ati. It regards that Pur¿Ìa 16th and most prominent vik•ati is the mind. is the (supreme creative and controlling) power of consciousness force which is not made up Thus the 8 prak•atis and 16 vik•atis, total 24 of any (of the 24) element of Prak•ati; neither elements plus the Pur¿Ìa element, this way any (material) substance of Prak•ati consists total 25 elements are defined as the foundational of the Pur¿Ìa. Sa®khya darïana defines ‘elements’ of Nature and Life in the S³®khya Prak•ati as that from which various things can darïana. The five basic elements, the sense be produced that keep changing. organs (of perception and action), and the mind, these elements do not give rise to any new This darïana describes 8 major types and element; they are simply the tools or medium foundational supports of existence, expression of various functions of a living being in Nature. One’s philosophy is not best expressed in words; it is expressed in the choices one makes... and the choices we make are ultimately our responsibility. - Eleanor Roosevelt 21
Therefore these are termed as vik•ati and not as or experience has to have to some cause. In prak•ati. The functions of the sense-organs are S³®khya, this fundamental cause is the Pur¿Ìa experienced through the sublime elements – the - the 25th element. For example look at the five tanm³tr³s (shabda, etc). following shloka. If one meditates deeply, one can experience Sangh³tpar³rthatv³t Triguñ³di Viparyay³t the role of these tanm³tr³s at the subtle AdhiïÚh³n³t | levels. Further concentration on these makes it clear that the root of these cognitive Pur¿Ìoasti Bhokt•abh³v³t Kaivaly³rtha® senses (tanm³tr³s) lies in the sense of being Prav•atteïcha || (aha®v•atti). Contemplation over the root - (S. Ka. 17) of how aha®k³ra (or aha®v•atti) makes existence of tanm³tr³s possible, would show Meaning: Because of its capacity to adopt the that it is due to the sense of cognition (buddhi) triguña, but being different from the triguña, that makes all these experiences (including and because of considering the self as a bhokt³4, the sense of self or sense of being) possible. but desiring to be free from all such perceptions, Above this mah³tatva (grand element), experiences and attachments (pertaining to the there is nothing that can be easily realized. triguña and materialistic elements of Nature), Therefore, that super or most sublime and there is a clear evidence of separate existence of original ‘element’ of Prak•ati is referred as the Pur¿Ìa (the consciousness ‘element’). “M¿la Prak•ati” which is self-existent (an³di - origin-less; e.g. the latest scientific theory of Multiplicity of Pur¿Ìa: self-existent energy fields in Bosons). Having proved the existence of pur¿Ìa, the natural question arises as how does it exist, The M¿la Prak•ati expresses itself and functions and in what form? In this respect S³®khya via its three intrinsic tendencies or functional philosophy differs from the non-duality theory properties (triguña) namely - sat, raj and tam. It of Vedanta philosophy. Vedanta regards the is only the different combinations of the triguña Consciousness Force (and hence the soul) as expressed in the 24 elements of Nature that unique, omnipresent and eternal. S³®khya result in the ever dynamic, ever expanding, ever- regards the souls as multiple. More explicitly, new diversities in Nature. Different expressions it regards that every soul is a distinct pur¿Ìa. It of these accepted or accommodated by the regards every soul (and hence every being) as an consciousness element (the Pur¿Ìa) correspond independent unit. In order to prove this point the to different shades of life. scripture “Samkhya Karika” argues - As per the principles of philosophy, whatever we Jananamarañakarañ³n³® experience (or perceive) is only is an outcome Pratiniyam³dayugapat Prav•atteïcha | of some cause. Every effect or outcome has to have some cause. Similarly every perceptions Pur¿Ìbahutva® Siddha® Traiguñyaviparyay³chchaiva || - (S. Ka. 18) The philosophy of life is this: Life is not a struggle, not a tension... Life is bliss. It is eternal wisdom, eternal existence. – Author unknown 22
Meaning: There is difference in the events of major kinds of pram³ñas – Pratyakïa Pram³ña, birth and death, and course of life of different Anum³na, Âptavachana (pre existent mystic individuals (regarded as souls here), and it knowledge realized through spiritual acumen appears like a universal principle that different of the Vedic sages). That which is manifested, souls don’t do exactly the same functions, nor or is perceivable through the senses, comes are their experiences (of anything) are exactly under the category of Pratyakïa Pram³ña the same. Therefore, all the souls are different (direct evidence). That which is not obvious, from each other. Because the self-existent Pur¿Ìa but can be inferred without ambiguity by logical (God) is not affected by the triguña, whereas intellectual arguments is considered as proved all the souls (beings) remain influenced by the by Anum³na. The extrasensory experiences triguña (in fact, their lives are mostly nothing that cannot be proved by Pratyakïa Pram³ña but the expressions of different combinations of or Anum³na, are accepted only if approved the triguña), therefore the individual souls are by some quote in the Vedas or Upanishads, or different from God. original text derived from them. Manifestation of Nature (Creation of the “The complete use of Universe): pure reason brings us finally According to S³®khya, when the triguña of from physical to metaphysical M¿la P•akrati rest in equilibrium there is no knowledge. But the concepts creation. Only the Pur¿Ìa and M¿la P•akrati of metaphysical knowledge do exist. When the evolutionary impulse (of not in themselves fully satisfy Pur¿Ìa) activates the M¿la P•akrati, this the demand of our integral equilibrium is disturbed. First the most being. They are indeed entirely powerful guña namely the Sat gives rise to the satisfactory to the pure reason Mah³tatva (Buddhi-tatva). Combination of Raj itself, because they are the very in the latter originates Aha®k³ra. Influence stuff of its own existence. But of Tam upon Aha®k³ra results in creation our nature sees things through of the five tanm³tr³s. Gradual rise of Tam in two eyes always, for it views the tanm³tr³s creates the 5 basic elements. them doubly as idea and as fact The basic elements, their combinations, and and therefore every concept is different levels of triguña in these combinations incomplete for us and to a part of give rise to the many, stochastically varying, our nature almost unreal until it forms and events that collectively constitute becomes an experience.” cosmic creation (JaÃa SraÌti). - Sri Aurobindo Pram³ñas in S³®khya darïana: The analytical discussions in S³®khya philosophy, the proofs and counter-proofs given in its treatises proceed with the support of three The creative mind is the playful mind. Philosophy is the play and dance of ideas. – Eric Hoffer 23
The Concept of Salvation in S³®khya darïana: Notes: Every school of Indian philosophy aims at the 1. Sutras: ‘Formulae’ or ‘aphorisms’ uttered goal of salvation of all beings from suffering and agony and attainment of ultimate bliss through the in Vedic style, which were later on scripted light of absolute knowledge. S³®khya darïana as couplets (shlokas) in Sanskrit. also guides towards this goal. In fact (e.g. in the following shloka), it defines the ultimate endeavor 2. Up³d³na K³raña: The origin, the source of as - complete emancipation from all sufferings, birth; the root-cause, sans which, existence and desires. of the specific result (in this case, the existence of Nature) would not be possible. Trividh Du¡kh³ty³nta Niv•attiratyanta [e.g. Gold is the up³d³na k³raña of gold- Pur¿Ì³rtha¡| jewelry.] – (S. D. 1.1) 3. Nimitta K³raña: Principal facilitator or Although all other efforts of wellbeing, including doer. [e.g. A goldsmith is the nimitta k³raña the worldly attainments, are also recognized of gold- jewelry.] as worthy endeavors if exerted righteously, the ultimate endeavor is only that of Jó³nanamukti 4. Bhokt³: One who relishes the joys/benefits/ - salvation from ignorance and agony through favors, and suffers the pains/agonies/ ultimate knowledge. (S. D. 3.23) | adversities. S³®khya darïana describes five essential 5. Du¡kha: The three types - Daivika (mental supports for s³dhan³s (devout spiritual level pains or sorrows, e.g., tension, endeavors) towards salvation. These are namely, suspicion, anxiety, despair, insult, etc); Uha - mystic knowledge attained in previous Daihika (pertaining to the body, e.g. due to birth; (Guru’s) Shabda - mantra and mystic illness, injury, allergy, etc), and Bhautika guidance given by an adept spiritual master; (due to natural calamities, war, social Adhyayan - continuous, thorough study of the anarchy, riots etc.) Vedic texts; Suhratpr³pti - enlightening company of some saints or spiritually elevated persons; Reference: D³na (benevolence, charity). Unflinching 1. Vedmurti Taponishtha Pandit Shriram s³dhan³ gradually leads to uprooting of all kinds of sufferings and sorrows - the daivika, Sharma Acharya and Mata Bhagavati Devi daihika, and bhautika du¡khas5 and attainment Sharma (author and editors): Sankhya of unalloyed happiness with peace. evam Yoga Darshana (2nd Ed). Yug Nirman Yojana Vistar Trust, Mathura. 2011. “One man may read the Bhagavata by the light of a lamp, and another may commit a forgery by that very light; but the lamp is unaffected. The sun sheds its light on the wicked as well as on the virtuous.” - Sri Ramakrishna Philosophy should be an energy; it should find its aim and its effect in the amelioration of mankind. – Victor Hugo 24
The Secret of Overcoming Loneliness If a person feels lonely in the midst of Man is by nature a social animal. Physicians say a sea of people, then it is an indeed that people who suffer from loneliness should unfortunate situation. Loneliness is felt not find solution in expensive treatments and when one separates oneself from others, break medication. Instead, they should meet other relationships with others, not considering people, socialize in the real world, share their anyone one’s own or when one doesn’t worries and happiness and feel part of the society. establish contact with anyone. In the present When they are able to express their emotions time, loneliness amid people has become a thus, the heaviness in their hearts is lifted and serious problem. This is similar to a situation they feel light and enthusiastic inside. where one is in front of an ocean but without a drop of water to drink. Unfortunately, this is The words ‘alone’ and ‘lonely’ though might the reality of life in this modern age. sound similar, are totally different in their meaning. Loneliness means that a person 40% of city population is suffering from wishes to have people around him but are not loneliness. Psychologists say that the damage present. It is a lack, a feeling that something caused by loneliness is same as that caused by is missing, a pain, a depression, a need, an smoking 15 cigarettes / day. Dr. Vivek Murthy absence. Aloneness means a person is complete published the results of a survey in an American in himself, he doesn’t need anybody; and he is medical journal which states that loneliness happy to be that way. It is a presence, fullness, is not only experienced by elderly people but aliveness, joy of being, overflowing love. There youth also to a large extent. is a beautiful description of this in Shiva Sutras – one who is seated stably in the company of The web of social media that is omnipresent oneself can happily take a plunge in the lake is in fact like an illusionary world. It creates of bliss present within his heart. Each of us a sense of relationships and friendships. The has this lake within ourselves, whose water is user indulges himself into this illusionary sufficient to quench our thirst. But we search for world while knowing very well that these this lake in others and remain unhappy. This is friends are not true. He just tries to handle his similar to the musk deer which searches for the loneliness through his involvement. But the source of the fragrance outside unaware that it is worst part is that instead of belongingness, emanating from its own navel. there is a high chance that he may get cheated and become lonelier. People are unhappy because they do not realize the spiritual treasure that is present within Loneliness expresses the pain of being alone and solitude expresses the glory of being alone. - Paul Tillich 25
themselves. So they spend their entire life so that he is not aware of the inherent divinity searching for their happiness and joy everywhere within. He has begun to assume that he is nothing else. In reality, they need not go anywhere. As more than this physical body made of flesh and long as they do not find their fountain of joy bones. He knows about emotions and thoughts. within themselves, neither can they be happy But there is something beyond all these and there nor can they satisfy those around them. When lies his true identity – he outright rejects this idea we find our happiness within, then anyone who because it is not apparent to him. comes in contact with us also experiences the same joy and contentment. We see only a fraction of the iceberg above water. Majority of it is submerged within. Similarly, the The lake of bliss that we have been talking of physical portion of life that is apparent is only is, of course, not present physically but in subtle a small fraction of our existence. Subtle aspect realms. We cannot perceive it with our physical of our existence is many times more than the eyes but it can only be felt through our mental physical and we are unaware of it. vision. It is not easy to reach that lake because one has to cross a river, i.e. citta, in order to reach Man does not live just one life. He lives one the bliss. This citta is formed as a result of one’s life after another. When the body dies, the own previous actions. soul takes another body and is born again. But he has no recollection of his past life. The learned people say that the road to heaven However, all his actions from the past lives passes through hell. This is precisely why most are meticulously recorded in his citta. Thus, people cannot enter the door to their inner man’s present life is based on actions of consciousness since it involves crossing the his past lives and his future is laid on the barriers that they have created owing to their past foundation of present and past. actions. This is what is depicted as the river of citta that one needs to cross. Only the courageous, Whatever good or bad man experiences in life fearless, those of strong resolve and undaunted by is felt within the mind. This is how heaven or difficult s³dhan³s can proceed on this path. hell is created in his mind. Good deeds will bestow happiness like in heaven and bad deeds From times immemorial, the sages and rishis of our will give rise to grief and suffering like in hell. country have done extensive research and study If man is suffering from loneliness today, it is to understand the subtle realms of consciousness because he has forgotten the tradition of ‘caring and have discovered new knowledge, divine and sharing’. The one who cares experiences mantras and attainments. They experienced the inner joy and the receiver is also happy because illumination of the soul and reached the lake of he feels nurtured. Thus the only technique that bliss about which we have been discussing. will work for removing loneliness is to live a life of love and togetherness; share one’s Today, man is moving away from his own self. He joys and resources with the needy and feel is distancing himself from his identity so much happiness in life. Loneliness is the poverty of self; solitude is the richness of self. - May Sarton 26
Yug Gita – 17 Sthitaprajóa Always Remains Calm and Composed In the previous issue, while explaining the essence of seventieth ïloka it was indicated that the ocean possesses steady nature. Fiery, fast flowing rivers incessantly go on pouring their waters in it; even then the ocean, with its great depth, does not become unsteady. In the same way, sthitaprajóa (a person of steady wisdom) remains poised - that is, he does not get disturbed by the impulses of sensual pleasures. By using the words ‘na k³mak³mº’ Lord Krishna says that only sthitaprajóa can achieve peace and not a person desirous of sensual pleasures. This issue takes up this discussion further and explains the essence of last two ïlokas of this chapter. Lord is trying to convey here that sthitaprajóa power. This subject has been discussed by him remains sober and steady all the time. The in great detail in his book titled ‘Âdhy³tmika ocean, despite being filled continuously from all K³mavijó³na’ (in Hindi). the sides by the river waters remains within it boundaries. In the same way, sthitaprajóa even Considering external objects as the basis of though surrounded by many desires and impulses k³man³ (desire) is that by taking resort to them of sensual pleasures does not get affected by (using them), desire to acquire more arises in them, but remains calm. One who runs after the mind; that is, these objects are the cause for the sensual pleasures cannot attain peace. He desires. Accumulated impressions and the actions will always remain disturbed. The word k³ma of previous several births generate the desires for has been used here by Lord Krishna to highlight attaining the objects of senses and hence they the virtues of sthitaprajóa. The meaning of also become the cause of the desires of mind. ‘K³m³ ya® praviïanti’ is – using objects of pleasure, enjoying sensual pleasures. A similar Mind gets easily affected by the external sense meaning word k³ma has been used by the seer objects. But when the latter enter the mind of in KaÚhopaniïad, where he says - ‘ye ye k³m³ a sthitaprajóa, they are unable to influence durlabh³ martyaloke’ (meaning – O Nachiketa! him. This is the majesty of sthitaprajóa. He Whatever objects of pleasure and howsoever relinquishes all his desires for relishing the difficult they are to achieve, I Yama give you all objects of senses from the heart; and hence, that.’). Thus there are three meanings of k³ma he becomes fearless. Even if he is made to – one is sex, second - desires of the mind and stand in the midst of illusive world of sensual third - use of external objects of pleasure. Pujya desires, he would remain unperturbed. Here Gurudev gave another interpretation - k³ma Veda Vyasa - the poet of the Gita, through the is the trait of finding inner joy, which when medium of Lord Krishna, sung the paeans of elevated to higher levels, becomes a spiritual praise of a person of steadfast wisdom. The worth of every conviction consists precisely in the steadfastness with which it is held. - Jane Addams 27
Sthitaprajóa also does not relish the taste or a blanket from his room, wrapped it around flavor of food. Once Swami Vivekananda, after him and then tried to meditate. But somehow eating inedible food, went to Ramakrishna or the other mosquitoes would enter inside the Paramhansa and said – ‘You prohibit us from blanket and he would get disturbed. Despite eating onion-garlic, but today I have eaten so incessant attack of mosquitoes, Swamiji was in much inedible food.’ Then Thakur said – ‘You trance for full eight hours and Girish Babu kept are beyond all this. By sharing all this, don’t busy in getting the mosquitoes flee. give wrong example to your colleagues. They will emulate you without understanding the fact When Swamiji got up from his meditation, he that you are sthitaprajóa of high order, where saw Girish Babu sitting near him. He asked him such foods cannot affect you.’ – ‘GC (short form of Girish Chandra)! What are you doing here?’ GC replied – ‘I was trying There is one such example in the life of Pujya to meditate but couldn’t do so due to the attack Gurudev. He was on a tour. The host lady, while of mosquitoes. How come you were able to serving a glass of milk to him inadvertently meditate?’ Swamiji said – ‘Meditation is done mixed salt in place of sugar in the milk. He with the soul. The mosquitoes were biting on the drank the milk as such without any expression of body, so there was no pain to the soul. Please go letting her know that the milk has salt in it. When deeper beneath the surface of the body and then he saw such an expression on the faces of other meditate, you will find the difference.’ When fellow parijans, he immediately pointed with his such a state is achieved, the ocean of soul remains eyes not to grumble and drink the milk as such. unmoved. In this state, whatever be the severity Later, when she came to know about the truth, she of sufferings – howsoever powerful the attack wept for what she had done. But Pujya Gurudev of sensual pleasures, the mind remains steady. consoled her and did not let her feel that it was The Japa (chanting of mantras) in such a state her mistake. Such foods get easily absorbed by a makes the s³dhaka achieve divine bliss. With sthitaprajóa like Pujya Gurudev. this example, it is now easier to understand the comparison of sthitaprajóa with the calm ocean. Girish Babu and Narendranath (Swami Vivekananda) were sitting near Ramakrishna In this context, Vinobaji has written in Paramhansa. They were debating on ‘where ‘Sthitaprajóa Darïana’ that the mind and soul to look for sthitaprajóa and how he appears?’ of sthitaprajóa remain steadfast. On one side, it Thakur asked Girish Babu to stay with him and may be impossible for him to do extremely pure Narendranath to go to Panchvati and meditate actions; and on the other, he may get involved there. Swamiji went there and immediately got in prohibited actions as well. On one side, all absorbed in the meditation despite a thick cover good or bad deeds are being abandoned; and of mosquitoes biting from all sides. Thakur then on the other, all the deeds are also welcome. asked Girish Babu to meditate near Narendra. In both the states, the mind of sthitaprajóa He too was attacked by the mosquitoes. When remains peaceful. His inner being always he could not focus for some time he fetched remains steady. With the help of awakened To a resolute mind, wishing to do is the first step toward doing. But if we do not wish to do a thing it becomes impossible. - Robert Southey 28
wisdom, feeling the truth or falsehood in from life. Life becomes blissful. Considering material objects, he remains steady all the the mental state of Arjuna, Lord considered it time. Whatever he does, he remains unattached essential to highlight this point. This formula to it and hence it is pardonable. In fact, he is most important for the people seeking self- develops himself in such a way that he sees realization. good / auspicious in everything. That is why he remains peaceful all the time. This is the only In the above ïloka, word ‘carati’ has been used, way to keep oneself happy. which means that such a person plays, roams, enjoys. There are no sorrows in his life. After The next ïloka is – relinquishing the desires for material objects and the desire to live long, what remains is pure Vih³ya k³m³nya¡ sarv³n pum³®ïcarati ni¡sp•ha¡| inner bliss. Therefore he behaves like an innocent child. In ‘Gita Rahasya’, Tilak has interpreted Nirmamo niraha®k³ra¡ sa ï³nti® adhigacchati || ‘carati’ as utilization of the power of controlled (71/2) senses for the social good. Param Pujya Gurudev says – this word means ‘living a joyful life Meaning: That person attains peace, who, like divine beings’. In short, the essence all the abandoning all desires for sense gratification, interpretations is that when all the desires vanish, lives free from attachment, false ego and sense of what remains is peace. proprietorship. In this concluding discussion in the context of The last ïloka of the chapter on ‘Sa®khya Yoga’ sthitaprajóa some very important points are explains the benefits of being sthitaprajóa - being mentioned; in fact, some of them are being repeated. Yogiraj Shri Krishna started E̳ br³hmº sthiti¡ p³rtha nain³® pr³pya the discussion on the virtues of sthitaprajóa vimuhyati| with the abandoning the desires for material objects and, he concludes also with the Sthitw³sy³mantak³le ”pi brahmanirv³öam- same thing. The one, who can abandon cchati|| (72/2) the three: attachment, ego and cravings for sense gratification, will certainly attain Meaning: O Partha! Having attained this peace. Here, it is important to understand Brahmic state (realization of ultimate truth), one is never again deluded. Being established therein, the use of word ‘ni¡sp•ha¡’ after ‘Vih³ya even at the end of life one attains to oneness with Brahma (the ultimate consciousness). k³m³nya¡’. One can abandon all the desires but the desire to live long remains. This desire The state of consciousness in which the pierces the mind till death. But the one who SiddhapuruÌas live has been called Brahmi has abandoned this desire also, becomes Sthiti. This is the incarnation of Super- ‘Jºvanmukta Paramhansa’ (the enlightened). consciousness in human consciousness. It When this desire is relinquished, there is a kind of refined view on life. This state is remains no fear of death. He never gets bored Doubts and mistrust are the mere panic of timid imagination, which the steadfast heart will conquer, and the large mind transcend. - Helen Keller 29
Eternal and steady. After attaining this state, a or ‘one has become infinite’. Param Pujya person never returns to the material world. This Gurudev after going into the subtle-causal realms becomes a normal state for him. He doesn’t carry has become all-pervasive, infinite. We feel his the load of knowledge; he remains light all the presence even now. If one has to understand the time even during emergencies. ‘Brahmanirvaöa’ philosophy of sthitaprajóa in a comprehensive means – get dissolved in Brahma, become one manner, then one should study the philosophy of with him. It is an extreme case of material the life of Param Pujya Gurudev. We will discuss detachment. Removing the curtain of body, this subject some other time. For now, we are the person embraces the infinite. In our Vedic ending this second chapter on ‘Samkhya Yoga’. culture, ‘Brahmanirvaöa’ is indicative of all- In the next issue, we will start the third chapter pervasiveness. Instead of saying ‘one is dead’, titled ‘Karma Yoga’ (The Yoga of Action). our culture says ‘one has become all-pervasive’ [Note: This is the translation of Hindi version of ‘Yug Gita’ (Part 1) by Dr. Pranav Pandya, published by Sri Vedmata Gayatri Trust, Shantikunj, Haridwar (2003)] Blessings in a Curse Whenever I became egotistical, I fell down. This is my experience. My master said, “Try your best, but whenever you feed your ego, whenever you try to do anything selfish, you will not succeed. This is my curse on you.” I looked at him in surprise. What was he saying? Then he continued, “This is my blessing to you, that whenever you want to become selfless, loving, and without ego, you will find a great force behind you, and you will never fail to achieve some good.” A selfish man always thinks and talks about himself. His selfishness makes him self-centered and miserable. The shortest cut to self-enlightenment is to cut through the ego; surrender before the Highest One. Satsanga—company of the sages—and constant awareness of the center within help one in going beyond the mire of delusion. The ego is also purified by cultivating selflessness. Unpurified ego is an evil which obstructs one’s own progress. But the purified ego is a means in discriminating real self from not-self—real self from mere-self. No one can expand his consciousness if he remains egotistical. Those who build boundaries around themselves because of their ego problems invariably create suffering for themselves, but those who try to be constantly aware of their unity with others can remain happy and fearless, enjoying every moment of life. Those who are selfless, humble, and loving are the true benefactors of humanity. - Swami Rama Perhaps there is no more important component of character than steadfast resolution. - Theodore Roosevelt 30
Peace Pilgrim’s Wisdom – 17 Living the Spiritual Life – 1 In the beginning, I undertook my walking me. I always have the feeling of being thankful not only to contact people; I undertook it as for these beautiful people who walk the earth a prayer discipline to keep me concentrated with me. So I would say part of my prayer is a on my prayer for peace. I hadn’t learned yet to feeling of thankfulness, and of course a feeling pray without ceasing. I also undertook a forty- of genuine love for all of God’s children and all five day period of prayer and fasting as a prayer of God’s creation. Prayer is a concentration of discipline. After the first few years the prayer positive thoughts. That’s a little bit about prayer. discipline was completely unnecessary, because I had learned to pray without ceasing. I made Ways of Prayer the contact so thoroughly that into my prayer You can visualize God’s light each day and send consciousness I put any condition or person in it to someone who needs help. Your divine nature the world I am concerned about and the rest takes must reach out and touch the divine nature of place automatically. Occasionally some condition another. Within you is the light of the world, it is brought back into my conscious mind because must be shared with the world. I need to really concentrate on it. If some person is in dire difficulty, and that person returns to my Visualize a golden light within you and spread mind for thought, I sometimes use the prayer of it out; first to those about you - your circle of visualization, which has always been very natural friends and relatives - and then gradually to the for me, but I understand not so for everybody. world. Keep on visualizing God’s golden light I reach out - my divine nature reaches out - to surrounding our earth. And if you have a problem, contact their divine nature. Then I have the feeling take the matter to God in prayer, and visualize it of lifting them, lifting them, lifting them, and I in God’s hands. Then leave it, knowing it is in the have the feeling of bringing God’s light to them. best possible hands, and turn your attention to I try to envision them bathed in God’s light, and other things. finally I do see them standing and reaching out their arms bathed in golden light. At that point I That’s not the only prayer you can pray, but I have leave them in God’s hands. discovered that for some who were in very great trouble, this prayer of visualization was helpful In all people I meet - though some may be to them. I’ve heard of results later, so I do a little governed by the self-centered nature and may not of this. know their potential at all - I see that divine spark, and that’s what I concentrate on. All people look There is also a constant prayer of thankfulness beautiful to me; they look like shining lights to - I am constantly thankful. The world is so At any moment, you have a choice, that either leads you closer to your spirit or further away from it. - Thich Nhat Hanh 31
beautiful, I am thankful. I have endless energy, this time of night.” I said to him, “Well, you see, I am thankful. I am plugged into the source of I walk completely without fear. Therefore I’m not Universal Supply, I am thankful. I am plugged attracting things which are not good. It says, That into the source of Universal Truth, I am thankful. which I feared came upon me. But I fear nothing I have this constant feeling of thankfulness, which and expect only good.” He took me in anyhow, is a prayer. and I found myself in a cell. The floor was littered with old newspapers and cigarette butts and When you’re learning, it’s true it may be valuable every old thing. The accommodations consisted to take special times, even to use special forms... of a single mattress on the floor and four ragged I can see that. blankets. There were two women attempting to sleep together on that single mattress. They told Several times people have written to me and said, me there had been eight women in that cell the “Peace, will you pray with me at four o’clock night before with those accommodations. There in the afternoon or nine o’clock in the evening, was a rather nice feeling among the prisoners in which is such and such a time, daylight saving general. They said to me, “You’ll need to have time?” I write and tell them, “You don’t have to two blankets because you’ll be sleeping on the figure all that out for me - plug in at any time and floor.” So I took a newspaper and cleared a place you will be praying with me, and I will be praying on the floor, then put one blanket down and the with you, because I pray without ceasing.” other blanket over me and slept comfortably enough. It wasn’t the first time I had slept on a Praying without ceasing is not ritualized, nor cement floor, nor the last. If you’re relaxed you are there even words. It is a constant state can sleep anywhere. When I woke up in the of awareness of oneness with God; it is a morning I saw this man staring through the bars. I sincere seeking for a good thing; and it is a said to him, “What time does court convene?” He concentration on the thing sought, with faith said, “I don’t know.” I said, “Well, aren’t you a that it is obtainable. All right prayer has good policeman?” “No,” he said, “I just like to look at effect, but if you give your whole life to the the girls.” It was one of the town sports. Anyone prayer you multiply its power ...No one really could come in right off the street and see what knows the full power of prayer. Of course, there they had there today: “Let’s go look at the girls!” is a relationship between prayer and action. Receptive prayer results in an inner receiving, One of the women was middle aged and was which motivates to right action. being held for being drunk and disorderly. It was her seventh offense, she told me, so it Let me tell you a story about an answer to wasn’t so hard on her. But the other was an prayer. I was picked up late one night by a young eighteen year old girl. She felt her entire life was policeman as I was walking along a lonely ruined because of this experience. I said, “It’s highway. I believe he was thinking in terms of my second time and I certainly don’t think my protective custody. He said to me, “Why, nobody life is ruined!” I got her all cheered up and we in this town would walk out along this highway at talked about what she’d do when she got out. She You have to grow from the inside out. None can teach you, none can make you spiritual. There is no other teacher but your own soul. - Swami Vivekananda 32
was to get out that day or the next day. Then they Now the young folks talk to me today about changed the guards. I never saw a matron. The things like breathing exercises and meditation new guard saw me and said, “What are you doing techniques, which in some cultures are definitely in there? I saw your picture in the newspaper. religious practices. But I say, look what I got from I heard you over the air.” Then they just let me my time alone with God: From the beauty around go. But before I left I got a broom from the man me, my inspiration; from the silent receptiveness, who cleaned up around there and gave it to the my meditation; and from my walking, not only girls so they could clean up their cell. I also got my exercise but my breathing. Four things at them a comb; their hair was all matted. They had once! I believe in making very good use of my been there about a week without a comb. What I time. And you can’t be too pushy when you’re really wanted to tell you is that the eighteen year doing four things at once. old girl was a deeply religious person. She had been desperately praying for help. I believe that I I always think of the bud of a flower. If you give was picked up off the highway that night and set it proper conditions it will open into a beautiful behind prison bars in answer to her prayers. flower, but if you’re impatient and try to tear the petals open you permanently injure the flower for The most important part of prayer is what we the earth life. The flower can be equated with the feel, not what we say. We spend a great deal of earthly human life. Give the spiritual growing-up time telling God what we think should be done, the proper growing conditions and it will open and not enough time waiting in the stillness for into a thing of beauty. God to tell us what to do. When you feel the need of a spiritual lift, try Now, beside God’s laws, which are the same for getting to bed early and get up early to have a all of us, there is also God’s guidance and that is quiet time at dawn. Then carry the serene “in unique for every human soul. If you don’t know tune” feeling that comes to you into your day, no what God’s guidance for your life is, you might matter what you may be doing. For those of you try seeking in receptive silence. I used to walk who are seeking the spiritual life, I recommend receptive and silent amidst the beauties of nature. these four daily practices: Spend time alone each Wonderful insights would come to me which day in receptive silence. When angry, or afflicted I then put into practice in my life. You might with any negative emotion, take time to be alone prefer listening to beautiful, uplifting music, with God. (Do not talk with people who are reading a few beautiful words and pondering on angry; they are irrational and cannot be reasoned them. To me, the beauties of nature were always with. If you or they are angry, it is best to leave the most inspiring, and so actually that was my and pray.) Visualize God’s light each day and time alone with God. It didn’t last more than an send it to someone who needs help. Exercise the hour; if that, got so much from it. body; it is the temple of the soul. [Reproduced with glad consent of the publishers – Friends of Peace Pilgrim] Nurture great thoughts, for you will never go higher than your thoughts. - Benjamin Disraeli 33
Break the Hypnotic Mold of Incompetency Incompetency has no relation with the follow the commands of ‘superiors’, and reality. It is a state of mind. When someone would never think otherwise. The standard thinks that he is incompetent in doing a psychological method to make a slave is to certain work, it is merely his imagination. din into the targeted people’s minds –“You The fact is that this ‘incompetency’ complex are just incapable; you should not ever wish is built into our minds over a long period of for more than what has been given to you”. time coming from our childhood. In childhood, When a person keeps hearing such words we were often admonished by some people and, in turn, keeps repeating them in his own –“You cannot do this work. You are incapable mind, his subconscious gradually accepts these of doing this. You are not fit to do it etc. etc.” false words as true, and the person becomes These kind of gratuitous verdicts are routinely hypnotized. imposed by some people on the others, and the latter even accept such opinions. This leads to For example, when a product is advertised the formation of an inferiority complex. People on television, it is presented with such catch- start thinking that they are really inferior and phrases and alluring visuals as to goad people less deserving; they cannot achieve success or to see it again and again, and go over it in any do good in life. their minds repeatedly. This product with its surrounding hyperbole then makes an Such thoughts gradually rigidify into a mental imprint in people’s subconscious, and when block and prevent people from striving for the the person goes to the market he becomes better. When a person becomes convinced of his receptive to buying it. incompetency, he closes his avenues to progress. The simple thought that he too can do something Such advertisements target the mind, fascinate better or beyond his perceived limitation never it and finally goad it into buying. Thus hypnosis enters his mind. is a simple process of prolonged repetition in the mind. Constant hammering creates a In remote past, many societies and social specific niche in the mind. This effectively groups used the power of hypnosis to destroy acts as an invisible wall beyond which mind is the talent, uniqueness and liberty of the people. unable to go. The vested interests were wary of the talented and the highly competent, or those who loved George Gurdjieff, the mystic, philosopher and freedom. Instead they wanted mental slaves spiritual teacher, has recounted his childhood or obedient servitors who would meekly memories. He was born in one of the most Luck is always the last refuge of laziness and incompetence. - James Cash Penney 34
primitive areas of the world. This part is still Gradually the children become convinced that if in that very stage. People there are very skilled they violated the circle they would be visited by hunters. Their life is nomadic and hence they do some harm. They would grow up in age with this not build home or fixed habitations. mental barrier, so much so that if occasionally they did try to cross the line they would feel as Gurdjieff was brought up by one such nomadic if an invisible wall was physically blocking their tribe. He could remember that these tribes used way. Until the person who had drawn the circle to practice hypnotism over children. Since they came and obliterated the line, the children would could not take children to hunting expeditions remain confined to the circle. they would leave the latter in a protected place under a tree. But to ensure that the children Thus hearing phrases like “you are incompetent’ would not wander away, they used the power of since early childhood casts a hypnotic effect, and hypnosis. When the child was still very small, has nothing to do with reality. No person is fully they would make him sit under a tree, draw a incompetent. The idea of one’s own incompetence circle with a stick and told him that he could is a falsity imposed by others. It tends to enslave not cross the circle. This constant dinning into the mind. We have to merely free ourselves from the ears convinced the child that he could not this mental block and refine our capabilities. This really go across the line. This is similar to the effort would certainly cut away the cobweb of thought process whereby people start believing false impressions, free us to see the reality as it in religious superstitions. actually is, and lead us onto a new path. The following dialogue between Lord Buddha and his disciple is very inspiring for the selfless social volunteers. Lord Buddha asked one of his disciples – “You are going for spreading the noble thoughts of Dharma. If people do not listen to you, what will you do? The disciple replied – “I will be grateful to them that they did not hurl abuses at me.” Then Buddha asked what he would do if they indeed turned abusive to him. The disciple replied that he would continue to be grateful that he is not getting beaten up. Lord Buddha wanted to test his disciple further and asked what he would do if he was beaten. The disciple replied that he would still be grateful that they had not killed him. Buddha then asked what he would do if they killed him. The disciple replied that he still would not have a reason to be ungrateful because if he were killed, then he would be liberated from the grievances of this life. It is this level of sincerity that captures the true essence of selfless efforts for uplifting the society. Never attribute to malevolence what is merely due to incompetence. - Arthur C. Clarke 35
Odyssey of the Enlightened - 66 Future Calling– 2 The difficult road to Independence dissatisfaction in the police, too. The employees of After the end of Second World War Bombay dock yard went on strike. Gandhiji held in May 1945, for about one year, the World War responsible for this turmoil. Normally country witnessed several upheavals. In Britain, a after the war, for sometime there are always new government was formed by the Labour Party. chances of moral degradation and disorder. Apart That government made up its mind to remove from this, conspiracies were being plotted to British Rule from India. Shimla Conference intensify tensions between Hindus and Muslims. was abruptly dissolved due to the intransigence In March 1946, a team of three cabinet ministers of the Muslim League leader, Mohammad Ali of the British Government came to India. In about Jinnah. Out of the total number of members in four months, this team interacted with about five the governing council, he was insisting on getting hundred leaders of India. more than half of them for the Muslim League. The purpose of these meetings was to prepare The way the political events of the country had the ground for independence of India and also to unfolded over the next two – three years, it became decide about the form of government for transfer clear that the partition of India was almost inevitable. of power. According to the plan that the Cabinet The failure of Shimla Conference put the seal on Mission submitted in May 1946, India was to be it. The communal harmony was getting willfully given a federal rule. The federal government that disrupted. The post-war conditions, British politics was to be formed by combining the princely states and the wrangles for participation in the governing and the representatives of the provinces was to be body had filled the public with uncontrollable anger given the responsibility of foreign affairs, security, and dissatisfaction. The stage was reached where home affairs and transport. Rest of the departments even small pretexts were enough for creating violent was to be looked after by the state governments. riots. In the beginning of the year 1946, a Muslim officer of Azad Hind Fauz was court-martialed. Communal tension started building up He was sentenced by an army court. The Muslims Although all the political parties and the princely of Calcutta (now Kolkata) took out a procession states accepted the formula of the Cabinet Mission, against this decision. Soon the procession became the thinking of Muslim League was different. violent and started looting the shops, burning trams They wanted a separate independent state for and even killing some innocent people. Muslim majority areas, implying a partition of the country. Though they had accepted the plan of Some incidents of revolt in the army and the Cabinet Mission in May 1946 but within ten security network too came to light. There was weeks they withdrew their support. The League When I discover who I am, I’ll be free. - Ralph Ellison 36
declared a ‘Direct Action’ movement for creation He also made the members aware of his decision of Pakistan. With this declaration, a conflagration of publication, in future, of the literature inspiring of hate, tension and violence erupted all over communal harmony. He also requested for the India. In order to perform his duty in this riot torn cooperation of visiting scholars in this direction. atmosphere, Shriram called a meeting of scholars, The third important decision that was taken in pandits, and social workers of Mathura. He the meeting was that all concerned should ensure himself went to invite these people to the meeting. that there were no riots. If, by chance, something Exactly twelve days after the declaration of happened, all attempts should be made to save the ‘direct action’, seven religious leaders of Mathura innocent people irrespective of their religion; this attended a meeting at the residence of Shriram in would increase the willpower of the victims of riots. Ghiya Mandi. Among them three were Hindus, two Muslims, one Christian and one Sikh. Among During ‘Direct Action’ movement of Muslim the Hindus, one person was from Arya Smaj. League there were demonstrations in Mathura also. Bloody violence erupted in Bengal, Bihar Salim Mohammad, the Imam of the mosque of and Punjab. Its news spread like wildfire all over Chhatta Bazar, was requested to preside over the meeting. He looked at Maulana Farukhi. After a A procession in honor of little deliberation, almost every one was looking at someone was passing by in heaven. Dwarka Babu of Arya Samaj to take the lead. The Someone asked in whose honor following guidelines were framed in the meeting was the procession being taken out. to maintain communal harmony in Mathura: Reply came – in the honor of a tiger. “Howsoever inflammatory talks political leaders The inquisitive person asked again give, the people of our communities should – What did this tiger do to earn the resolve to maintain peace and harmony. After dignity of being in heaven? The reply Puja, Prayers or Namaz, some selected portions was – It was a stormy night with of the respective religious texts should be read. strong winds and rain. This tiger was These portions should be such that they teach returning to his cave. By smell that peace, harmony and brotherhood. In our offices, came from inside the cave he knew homes, or workplaces, we should employ at least that a goat scared by the storm had one person who is from a different community. taken shelter inside the cave. The For example, a Hindu religious leader should tiger thought that if the goat would keep one Muslim with him and a Muslim leader see him it would get scared. So he sat should give employment to one Hindu.” outside the cave. He got drenched in rain and took sufferings upon himself “Abdul is already with you from the beginning. so that the goat did not suffer. The So you need not do anything especially for this good karma that he earned in saving purpose.” – said Dwarka Babu. Shriram said – “I the goat’s life got him this heaven. have resolved to publish the messages of different Truly, benevolence bestowed upon religions in my magazine.” others never goes waste. Don’t be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth. - Rumi 37
the country; and due to this, tension was building In those days of tension–filled atmosphere, up in other cities which were earlier peaceful. some religious places of Mathura also became Under this movement, there were demonstrations the victims of violence. Though it was the duty and public meetings in Mathura also. Within one of police to maintain law and order and protect year, there were about fifteen instances in which them but the police force was not enough. The both the communities violently clashed with each neighboring cities of Mathura, namely Agra and other. The freedom fighters of Mathura district Bharatpur, were also burning. Shantisenas were made a ‘Shantisena’ (peace-keeping force). formed there also for maintaining harmony. Its volunteers used to take out Prabhat Pheris Shriram was asked to visit these places. On some (morning processions). They would sing prayers occasions, he did so, but mostly he remained in that used to be sung in the Ashram of Mahatma Mathura as he was more needed there. Gandhi. The credit of chanting the melody of ‘Raghupati raghav rajaram’ in Mathura goes to The plot of some trouble–makers to attack these volunteers. Shriram too would participate in some religious places in Chauk and Keshavdev these prabhat pheris. He also inspired the readers of (wards) was leaked. In order to prevent the Akhand Jyoti to participate in these peace marches. planned attacks, Shriram along with his friends and volunteers went to Keshavdev ward. After the final decisions of partition of India and However, police didn’t allow them to do so. grant of independence to two partitioned states So the volunteers decided to individually visit – India (Bharat) and Pakistan - the minorities in the families of minority community. In those the two nation-states started becoming victims of turbulent times of deep distrust, it was but communal violence. Violence flared up in West natural to disbelieve the people of the other Punjab, Sindh and East Bengal. In those states, the community by the residents. In those areas, the non-Muslim minorities started fleeing from their news was spread that Hindus were coming there. ancestral homelands. Hindus were fleeing away But in the next wave, it became clear that they from West Punjab and Sindh and East Bengal (now were volunteers of Shantisena and that among Bangla Desh) and Muslims from West Bengal. them Shriram and his companions were also The rioters made fleeing people their targets. The present. This information removed the worry of news of riots reached other parts of the country the Muslim residents of Katara. The rioters tried and families of minority community there started their best but they could not do much harm. Some packing up. In Mathura, some Muslim families people were arrested. The feeling of insecurity sold their properties overnight and decided to go and tension was still prevailing. So Shriram to Pakistan. Some of them had planned to go just made it a routine to visit those areas daily for because it was an Islamic country and hence they nearly one and half months. He would meet the would get better opportunities there. When Shriram people and inquire about their apprehensions. heard this news, he along with his religious team He would normally be accompanied by some contacted these families and tried to persuade them other volunteers and leaders of Congress. The to stay back. Out of the twenty families, fourteen aim of keeping in touch with them was to lift up changed their decision. their morale. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. - Steve Jobs 38
The festivities mixed with challenges vacated two rooms in his house and took them with India got independence on 15th August, 1947. him next day. There was not much luggage with This was celebrated as a festival in Mathura them that required any vehicle. They just made a too. Shriram performed a special Yagya at his bundle of necessary items and accompanied him. residence and hoisted the Tricolor Flag on the Mataji welcomed them; their food was cooked main entrance. After that he also participated in in her kitchen. They stayed there for two weeks. the program held at the collectorate. Later on, he After normalcy was restored in that region, they went to Katara Keshavdev. He was accompanied went back on their own. by Shyamlal - his close friend and a social worker of that region. Families residing in Katara, too, Due to the riots, there was a serious concern appeared happy in a subdued way. Their minds about employment / work in the minority were filled with worry and doubt. Shriram told community. People simply stopped giving work these people – “If you people fear too much, to them. Wherever they worked, people looked at you can come to my house. People of your them suspiciously. In some places, their services community are working in my press. You can live were terminated. Some such families came to there for whatever duration you wish, don’t get Shriram to solve their problems. Shriram met the frightened.” employers and tried to convince them. Obviously their doubt was not unfounded. It was not due On this assurance two families indeed got ready. to the nature or conduct of the workers, but on Shriram told them to wait till evening. Then he account of mutual communal mistrust. God himself takes care of his true devotees Once Swami Vivekananda was travelling in a 2nd class compartment of a train, a follower had bought the ticket for him, Swamiji had no money. It was a very hot Indian day. There was a business man in the next seat, he was eating variety of sweets and drinking cool juices, he looked at Swamiji and said “Only if you had worked hard like me you could have been enjoying too.” as if spirituality is a lazy man’s business. Swamiji had not eaten anything in last two days; he did not say anything in reply to the business man. Coincidentally both got off at the same station; a sweet-seller was waiting outside the train with variety of sweets, drinks and a chair to sit on. As soon as his saw Swamiji he requested him to receive his hospitality. “Why are you giving me all this?” asked Swami Vivekananda. “In the afternoon sleep I had a dream, Lord Rama appeared in the dream and told me to give all these to you.” said the sweet-seller. Swamiji ate all that with tear in his eyes appreciating how divine love manifests for those who are genuine in their quest. Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes. - Mahatma Gandhi 39
Youth Column Do You Properly Use Your Mind Power? Exceptional talent is normally regarded all his mental energies to become an erudite by everyone as the Creator’s gift. After scholar of Sanskrit. This resolve did make him a all, not everyone is capable of writing highly accomplished scholar of Sanskrit. books, composing poems, creating paintings or marvelous sculptures. Only one amongst This transformation happened only because thousands becomes a high quality writer, and he properly channelized his mental powers, only one among thousands becomes a great and reaped its benefits. Most of us forget this scientist. What is the main reason behind the fundamental principle and end up wasting our evolution of talent in great achievers? When lives. If we put in efforts and recognize the this is assessed, the only conclusion that importance of the mental powers hidden within comes out is – these people showed enormous us, we can transform our ordinary capabilities courage in deploying their mental powers in into exceptional talents. Whoever has achieved the direction that lead to the chosen goal. A great heights, has earned the same by a proper judicious deployment of mental powers is, in utilization of his strengths. If scientists do not fact, the fundamental basis for unveiling and spend hours of efforts in conducting intense nurturing of latent talent. research in their laboratories, will they be able to attain any significant breakthroughs? Varadaraj, a very famous exponent of Sanskrit language was not so bright when he was a Every person who has attained excellence in young boy. Varad is another name for ox. Since any field has done so by focusing his energies he was dull and unintelligent, his friends used and steadily developing expertise. On the other to tease him by the name Varadaraj (the king hand, there are people who try all their lives but of oxen). Once he grew sick of everyone’s never achieve much. The main reason behind ridicule and ran away from his home. On the this failure is in their wasteful strewing of mental way, when he sat down to take rest in a temple, powers. If there is no clearly defined goal, mind he saw a grasshopper with two legs missing. gets disorganized, and his desires stray off in The grasshopper was trying to climb a wall. meaningless pursuits. It is possible to attain Despite climbing and failing several times it did success only by concentrating all the mental not accept defeat and kept trying. Finally, with powers while focusing on a single chosen goal. tremendous effort it did manage to climb to the Our personality is built by the same process as top of the wall. Varadaraj learnt a lesson from well. Without a goal, even self-control has no the grasshopper and took a resolve then and utility because the energy conserved through self- there that he would put in best efforts and focus control also eventually gets wasted. Believe it can be done. When you believe something can be done, really believe, your mind will find the ways to do it. - David J. Schwartz 40
Within each and every person are embedded they get astray, and destroy or misdirect all our enormous possibilities of development and energies. Lord Krishna has said so in the Gita: enhancement of mental powers but without a clear goal in mind and without developing focus dhy³yato vishay³npunsah sangasteshupaj³yate| towards that goal, all these possibilities get sang³tsanj³yate k³mah k³m³tkrodhobhij³yate|| wasted. It is harmful to not use these powers and it is also harmful to misuse them for a wrong goal. krodh³dbhavati sammohh Spiritual aspirants who conserve their energies sammoh³tsmritivibhramah| through self-control need to put in a lot of effort smritibhransh³d buddhin³sho to stop the flow of their energies in undesirable buddhin³sh³tpraöashyati|| directions and to guide them in the right direction. Otherwise self-control remains imperfect and - Gita (62-63/2) no great outcome becomes possible in spiritual Meaning:Aperson who only thinks about sensual domain as well. pleasures, gets attracted and attached to them. This attachment creates desires, which goad him Very often our mental energies get wasted in to take actions to fulfill them. When desires do greed, attachment and fulfilling sensual desires. not get satiated, anger develops. Anger leads to It is necessary to fulfill needs of life and also utter state of confusion of mind, which then leads discharge responsibilities but to spend all our to loss of memory. This loss of memory leads to energies in basic worldly needs is not right. People destruction of intelligence and when intelligence who are continuously thinking and working to fails, it leads to the person’s destruction. fulfill their lofty desires cannot achieve anything significant in life. When mental energies are This indeed is the route to total decadence of focused on a higher goal and actions are taken, life. When we deploy our mental resources in special talents begin to uncover. meaningless pursuits, we deny ourselves the opportunity to achieve anything worthwhile Every plan that we work upon is first born in in life. Only by conservation, strengthening our mind as a thought. If these thoughts are not and proper deployment of mental energies is worthy or not focused towards a higher goal, it possible to awaken our hidden talents. This year, let our efforts be directed to attain this very goal. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. - Steve Jobs The mind is just like a muscle - the more you exercise it, the stronger it gets and the more it can expand. - Idowu Koyenikan 41
Give Noble Sa®sk³ras, not Wealth, to the Children All parents think of their children as a Another such instance is of 2018 and part of their own beings. They nurse happened in Ranchi. The skeleton of a them, care for them and teach them person’s aged mother was found in her house the ways of the world. But when these very under mysterious circumstances. That lady children grow up and embark on their own had been living there all alone for the last 22 paths of life, they tend to forget their parents, years. When foul smell started coming out, the neglect them and sometimes even break neighbors informed the police. contact with the parents. It is an irony of our society that the children do not give back even These are only two among the many such 1% of the love and affection which they had instances which highlight how little the young themselves received from their parents, but generation of today cares for its elders. Earlier, in are ever ready to claim right over the parent’s joint families, the elders were looked after, sought property and wealth. Is this stark reality of after and respected. But in the modern nuclear today a result of the changing times, or is it an families, they have become useless adjuncts - left effect of the growing bad sa®sk³ras (inherent alone and neglected. tendencies) in the families. Ironically, this is the age of communication Every person in old age wants to live with his revolution. There are so many media to remain children. But modern society has become so in touch with others - voice calling, video calling, insensitive that it discards such aged persons online chat, WhatsApp, Facebook and what not. like used clothes and does not bother to even One is so immersed in the small circle of only know their whereabouts. We often come select persons with whom an interest is served across many such heart rending stories. One that he has no time for his own elders. such event is of 2017. In the Oshiwara locality of Mumbai, a 63 year old woman died in her How strange it is that in the time of all pervading posh flat and no one even knew of her death smart phones, people do not live like a unified for four full months! It is when her son, who family, but like lonesome scattered individuals. lived in America, returned to Mumbai and Occasionally, they condescend to observe went to his flat that he found his mother’s relations over phone only. When there was only skeleton lying inside. This event shook one phone in the house, members kept in touch everybody. What type of society are we living with others over that single phone. But now when in today that we remain completely unaware almost everyone has a phone, they hardly find of even our close neighborhood? time to talk to other family members. It is too difficult to think nobly when one thinks only of earning a living. - Jean-Jacques Rousseau 42
In this age of instant communication, when turned him into a pauper and beggar. Singhania new devices are coming in the market daily, is now 81, and for anyone at this age to be we are getting lonely and isolated, and are forced to knock at the doors of a court heralds forgetting the very meaning of a family. The a very disturbing future. purpose of communication is to connect people and the whole world, but in reality, this There is perhaps a fault in the sa®sk³ras which bond and contact has broken in respect of our we are inculcating in our young generation; own family members. there is some value shortcoming in the love and affection in the family which is making We will have to understand afresh our sa®sk³ras, the young generation so callous towards the to connect with our own and look after the elderly and distant from other members of elderly, because a society or family whose the family. That is why Yugrishi Param Pujya members live like isolated islands cannot remain Gurudev said - “Give sa®sk³ras, not wealth to healthy and nourished for long. Already we are your next generation”. Wealth is fleeting but seeing the ugly results of such walled living. If sa®sk³ras remain embedded in the mind and we do not take notice of such abnormalities and play their positive role for the whole life. rectify them, the future will produce even more horrifying spectacles. Lack of good sa®sk³ras or distortion in them is the root cause of the decline of family as an Today, there are only a few such incidents of institution today as seen in the frequent feuds, the aged ones dying and rotting alone in their infightings and break-ups among the family houses, but this scenario could become common members. When the elders of the family - the in the coming days. What is happening with our guardians, who looked after the family, kept it elders today can happen with us too, because together and tended to its every need are now the young generation of today which never tires being grossly neglected and discarded, the result of bragging about its so-called achievements cannot be otherwise. and remains immersed in the superficial and purely personal enjoyments of life forgets that We will have to understand this phenomenon it too will grow in age and will be the elderly and look afresh at our -Ìi tradition. The value generation of tomorrow. of the family, of the warmth of relations, and of the sight of the elders moving their affectionate There is another recent event which raises a palms over children’s heads is just incalculable. question mark over the nurturing methods of Only this way will we be able to progress in children. Vijaypat Singhania, a billionaire of the real sense; only then will we be able to one time, is now in dire straits and dependent keep intact the institution of family and remain on others for every penny. Singhania who once assured of a loving future. We are responsible transferred the Rs. 10 billion worth Raymond for whatever is happening with our elders today, Company to his son has appealed to the and we will be responsible for whatever happens Bombay High court that his son has virtually with us tomorrow. If you are not noble in your thoughts and actions, no title awarded by any king or queen can make you so. - E.A. Bucchianeri 43
Amrit Vani What Makes Gayatri S³dhan³ Miraculous? Translation of excerpts of some discourses given by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya Let us begin with collective chant of the Gayatri Mantra: “Om Bh¿r Bhuva¡ Swa¡, Tatsaviturvareñya® Bhargo Devasya Dhºmahi, Dhiyo Yona¡ Pracoday³t ||” Sisters and Brothers, of Mount Everest on the Himalayas. He didn’t The japa-s³dhan³1,2 of Gayatri Mantra think twice, didn’t look back, didn’t care for the should begin with remembrance of its hardships on the way, once he determined and viniyoga. Every Vedic mantra has a viniyoga started his journey. He took Tenzing Norgay, that introduces us to the origin of the mantra, a local Sherpa as a guide with him. Finally his its objective, and structural characteristic. For unflinching endeavor succeeded and one day he example, the viniyoga of the Gayatri Mantra is (and Norgay) hoisted the flag of victory on the “G³yatrº Chanda¡ Savit³ Devat³ Viïw³mitra Everest peak. He even tried boating along the RiÌi¡ Jape Viniyoga¡”. This means - the unique reverse of the natural direction of the flow of the mantra can also be chanted or sung like a Ganges - starting from the Ganga Sagar in the chhanda (verse); Savit³3 is the divine focus of this Bay of Bengal towards Gangotri on Himalayas. mantra’s s³dhan³2; and Vishwamitra is the rishi Though this effort had to be discontinued (Vedic sage) who first realized and spiritually midway due to non-availability of proper boat, investigated this mantra. his adventure remains an ideal of courage for the future generations. So, in terms of today’s language, rishi Vishwamitra discovered the Gayatri Mantra and Similar kind of firm determination and vigorous pioneered doing a ‘doctorate’ on the super science zeal is essential to proceed along the ever of this mantra. You know, such great epochal challenging path to spirituality. This is like findings require lifelong arduous endeavors. traversing the gigantic current of life against Great achievements and inventions require the normal flow (full of worldly comforts and rigorous motivation, unyielding efforts, and attractions). For doing this, one has to renounce immense courage with adventurous enthusiasm. all pleasures and attachments of worldly Awakening and ascent of humankind is marked comforts and passions, and on the contrary, by such historic ventures. adopt strict disciplines, and willingly observe self-restraint for noble aims. I also attempted For example, Edmund Hilary had an inner urge to this and started my Gayatri S³dhan³ following achieve the highest point in the world - Summit the path of Vedic sages. For this ‘research’, I Truth, like gold, is to be obtained not by its growth, but by washing away from it all that is not gold. - Leo Tolstoy 44
thoroughly studied the Vedic texts, traversed initiation of Gayatri S³dhan³ begins when one the arduous heights of the Himalayas and becomes a Brahmin in true sense of the word - endeavored vigorous tapa4 to be able to meet which means, irrespective of caste or creed, one the Great rishis in their sublime forms in the lives a life devoted to the service of the needy Himalayas. I did not accept the miraculous and consumes minimum of Nature’s resources power of Gayatri S³dhan³ sans experimenting and worldly means for self (and the family). One on myself and experiencing the truth. also needs to follow the enlightened path of self- purification, self-discipline, self-improvement, I made my body and mind as the laboratory for and self-less service, for Gayatri S³dhan³. this research and did many kinds of difficult spiritual experiments to test the amazing powers In my life, the ritual of Gayatri dºkï³ was of this Great mantra. I started higher-level performed by Pandit Madanmohan Malviya, Gayatri S³dhan³ (of 24 Mahapuraïcarnas of who introduced me to the Gayatri Mantra and Gayatri) since the age of 15 and continued it the method of doing Gayatri Up³san³ every day. for 24 years. In the long period of s³dhan³ I not This was like introducing me to the outer layer only did Gayatri Up³san³ and mantra japa for - introducing to the limitless power of Gayatri, 4 hrs every day (in Brahma Muhurta – about 4 only in words. My s³dhan³ got the pr³ña (life & hrs before sunrise), but also fulfilled my duties light), and inspired the divine force of a Gayatri towards the family, towards welfare of the society s³dhaka in my inner self only at the age of 15 and peaceful freedom movement of India. As when one day during my up³san³, my divine part of the tapa, I used to eat only Barley roti and guru from the Himalayas appeared before me in Butter milk of cow. I did not eat sugar; did not his subtle body and made me realize the purpose eat salt; no fruits, no milk, tea or any drink (other of the present life through a live-view and than plain water); nothing else [1]. This kind of experience of my past lives [1]. strict restraint is essential for perfect control over the mind-body system to follow other ascetic It was like inducing life-force in a fetus. When disciplines of devout s³dhan³. How many of you a hen lays an egg, the egg remains lifeless (sans who come to me for being blessed by the boons any activity) for a long time. It is only after the of Gayatri Mantra are ready to adopt this kind of appropriate span of time that its temperature rises self-purification and self-discipline? and the chicken comes out of it by breaking its thick shell. It is at this time that the chicken is It was only after completion of my dedicated born - its life-force, the energy of its liveliness research experiments, and confirmation of is activated completely. Similar is the case of a the miracles of Gayatri S³dhan³ that I started spiritual seeker. In the initial days of s³dhan³ guiding the spiritual seekers towards it. As such, there is no spiritual-realization, no recognizable in the Hindu system, dºkï³ (initiation) of Gayatri outcome; it is only after adept s³dhan³ for Mantra is usually conferred upon a Brahmin with necessary duration that one feels the divine force the ritual of thread-ceremony. But this is only within, which elevates him/her towards more like a superficial customary activity. The real rigorous (devout) s³dhan³. The ritual of worship The fires of refinement come with a cost, but also with a promise. - Robin Bertram 45
in up³san³ is only like an outer body of the egg; also become possible one day with sincere efforts/ it’s only the warmth of the life-force of dedicated practice. Restraining the mind and focusing it in a s³dhan³ that induces pr³ña5 in it. desired activity would then be easily achieved by the force of your inner will and devotion. The rituals of p¿j³ (worship), as part of up³san³, in which you may offer flowers and oblation Step-wise Progress: etc, to the deity in the form of an idol, picture or Although up³san³ is like an outer layer, it is an some physical symbol and chant or sing some essential step towards higher-level s³dhan³. For prayers (or mantra), are only like initial steps example, you need to learn script (syllables) to attract and condition your mind. It’s only of a language before learning to read or write after initiation of s³dhan³ with unflinching self- it. Most often you are taught the syllables of a determination and inner will that your up³san³ language in the pre-school level with the help of (devotional practice) gets life. Unfortunately, associating some familiar objects, pictures with what we find around is that most ‘devotees’ get them. Later on only the syllables remain and the carried away by the rituals and don’t conduct the pictures disappear. Similarly you need to learn experiment of s³dhan³. the digits and the basic arithmetic operation of addition, subtraction etc, before starting to learn For example many of you think that mere higher mathematics. What would you say about chanting of the Gayatri Mantra, as part of your someone who wants to do Graduation in Algebra up³san³, for several thousand times will result or Geometry without learning the basics of in your spiritual ascent or will shower divine Mathematics; or, of someone who wants to do a boons upon you. Don’t you know that to activate Ph.D. in literature without learning any Language the power of this great mantra through chanting, at an elementary level? you first need to purify and empower your own tongue and voice? So the point is that - in normal course, progress always takes place gradually. The same holds for Time and again, I would like to emphasize spiritual development. As I told you, my first guru that most crucial part of any mantra-japa is Malviyaji had initiated me into doing the japa purification and disciplining of the tongue. Self- of Gayatri Mantra by teaching the basic rituals, inspired restraint over the greed of the tongue, discipline and method of japa of this mantra. He and discipline over its act of speaking is of utmost began with teaching me its pronunciation and its importance for success of any s³dhan³. It is also word- meaning. That was necessary to initiate my the most essential and core step of any kind of Gayatri up³san³ and gradually its s³dhan³. So tapa. In fact, you cannot control the agility of the up³san³-rituals are important. your mind, and you can never achieve desired But this is not all. Many of you get stuck at this mental concentration for mantra-japa (meditative first level itself. For you, how to hold the rosary, chanting of a mantra) unless you control your how to chant the mantra, how many times to chant tongue. If you succeed in disciplining your the mantra, etc, is more important than the real tongue, controlling other sensory passions would s³dhan³. That is why in spite of doing so called What a man’s mind can create, man’s character should control. - Thomas Edison 46
anuÌÚh³ns of several thousand or even lakhs practice and master in this triple-fold endeavor (e.g. 1,25,000) times chanting of the Gayatri of Gayatri Up³san³. Everyone can’t accomplish Mantra, you see no significant results. This is it. Progressing along this path is not easy: only what I say, that you get stuck only in the outer sincere seekers of spirituality, only the true layer or just the physical activities. You neglect devotees can follow these adeptly. the fact that the “core”, the “depth”, or what I call as “pr³ña” (of the spiritual power of the There also are three important facets of the mantra) needs to be realized. s³dhan³ of Gayatri. These three currents of pr³ña of Gayatri Mantra (tripad³) are Ïraddh³, Realization of pr³ña or real substance (core or NiÌÚh³, Prajó³. These are like the holy confluence life force) of Gayatri Mantra was instilled within (sangam) at Prayagraj of the Ganga, Yamuna me by my divine mentor from the Himalayas. and Saraswati. It is said that after bathing in this I realized the importance of Gayatri which is sangam - “k³ka hohió pika, bakahuó mar³l³” also called tripad³ (word-meaning: having three (meaning: a crow becomes cuckoo; and a legs) because of the three major components of crane turns into a swan). This implies complete the Gayatri Mantra. These three components, in transformation into a more evolved status. So terms of methods, are Japa, Tapa, and Dhy³na what are these three currents of Gayatri’s pr³ña, [2]. I have already explained each of these inculcation of which amounts to evolution of at length on several occasions. Your Gayatri s³dhaka’s consciousness, divine transmutation S³dhan³ cannot initiate unless you sincerely of the s³dhaka’s inner self? (To be continued in the next issue) Notes: 1. Japa-s³dhan³: Practice of japa (rhythmic mental chanting with emotional engrossment in the focus of the mantra) as a s³dhan³. 2. S³dhan³: Self-determined ascetic endeavor of self-discipline, self-analysis, self-refinement and spiritual enlightenment. 3. Savit³: Transcendent body of the Sun-God; source of sublime & manifested energies, & light. 4. Tapa: Observance of austerity, penance, and arduous self-restraint for self-purification. 5. Pr³ña: Vital Spiritual Energy. References (Important for Detailed Reading): 1. Pandya P. & Jyotirmaya: Chetana Ki Shikhar Yatra Vols. 1-3. [English Version of V.1: Odyssey of the Enlightened Vol. 1] Sri Vedmata Gayatri Trust, Shantikunj, Haridwar. (2014). 2. Acharya Pt. Shriram Sharma: Japa, Tapa aur Dhy³na. Yug Nirman Yojna, Mathura. (10th Print) 2017. [English Version: Japa, Tapa, Dhyana - Triple Fold Path of Sadhana. Sri Vedmata Gayatri Trust, Shantikunj, Haridwar. (2nd ed., 2015)] In the end, it is the person you become, not the things you achieve, that is most important. - Les Brown 47
Simple Techniques of Pr³öay³ma to Stay Healthy - 2 We know that there are several forms of 1. In a peaceful lonely area be seated with energy / power; e.g. electrical energy, balanced poise. Face the East, sit cross- magnetic energy, gravitational legged, sit in the easy lotus posture, spine energy, wind energy, physical energy, etc. There erect and eyes half-shut; place hands is one more aspect of energy that is more subtle on both knees. This is called the Pr³öa and more powerful. This is called Pr³öa energy. Mudr³. Every living being possesses this life-sustaining energy; however, it is not sufficient. The cosmos 2. Bend the left hand and keep it slanting. In is filled with huge amounts of this energy. The its palm, place the elbow of the right hand. Pr³öa element in a human being (soul) is called Raise the right hand. Place the thumb on the Âtm³gni (fire of soul) and that present in the right nostril and place the middle and ring cosmos is called Brahm³gni (fire of Supreme finger on the left nostril. Soul). In order to augment Âtm³gni it is essential to connect it to Brahm³gni through the process 3. Close the left nostril with the help of the of S³dhan³. This process is called Pr³öay³ma. middle and ring fingers. Inhale slowly but In the previous issue, we had discussed a simple deeply. method of ‘Pr³ö³karÌaöa Pr³öay³ma’. Now we take up another, more advanced, form of 4. Meditate on the fact that the Sun’s vital Pr³öay³ma. energy on mixing with air enters the body via the Pingal³ subtle nerve situated in the S¿ryavedhana Pr³öay³ma: right nostril. Its heat is radiating our inner There is a seed of storehouse of energy within bodily organs. each human being. It is called ‘Kundalinº Mah³ïakti’ (serpentine power or vital force). It 5. Let the inhaled air remain for some time is located in the ‘M¿l³dh³ra Cakra’ (at the base inside. Shut both the nostrils and meditate of the spinal cord). Normally it remains dormant, on the fact that via the concentrated Pr³öa and hence one cannot utilize its power. However, (vital energy) of Sun is getting focused if it is awakened, it can provide immense power. on M¿l³dh³ra Cakra. The Kundalinº S¿ryavedhana Pr³öay³ma can help in the having remained latent for a long time awakening of this power. in M¿l³dh³ra is now being activated by this concentrated Pr³öa of Sun. Hence You may practice S¿ryavedhana Pr³öay³ma as it is becoming radiant and its aura is follows- continuously expanding. When you own your breath, nobody can steal your peace. - Author Unknown 48
6. Now shut the right nostril with the thumb. that radiant Pr³öa mixed with inhaled Open the left nostril. Slowly exhale air is rendering the M¿l³dh³ra Cakra air from the left nostril. Now meditate permanently radiant. The radiance keeps on the fact that the dirt that induces augmenting and like tongues of flames is inactivation in the Cakras is being marching upwards. Because of this light the exited totally. Now since this dirt is SuÌumn³ subtle nerve is getting nourished mixed with the exhaled air it is no ceaselessly. longer radiant as it was when vital force was inhaled. It is hence becoming 10. Close the left nostril and from the right yellow in color and via the Ió subtle nostril slowly exhale air. Meditate that the nerve it is being exited from the left dirt of M¿l³dh³ra Cakra like smoke mixed nostril’s exhaled air. with radiant breath is rendering the latter opaque and yellow. This yellow Pr³öa air 7. Now close both the nostrils. Render the is being evicted outside via the Pingal³ lungs empty i.e. devoid of air. Meditate that subtle nerve. Now since the inner dirt has the external vital force remains outside only. been removed the heart feels light and Since it does not pressurize the internal vital radiant. force it is very light in weight. The Pr³öa of the M¿l³dh³ra Cakra is appearing like 11. Now again shut both the nostrils and as the Sun. Like a ball of light it rises upwards given in point number (6) render the lungs akin to the flames of fire. Its flames travel empty i.e. devoid of any air. Feel the ball from M¿l³dh³ra to the throat and higher. In of light of SuÌumn³ subtle nerve going the inner subtle SuÌumn³ nerve this ball of upward from M¿l³dh³ra Cakra to the fire (vital force) is making the internal body throat. Experience that the divine brilliant radiant. light illuminates all the inner bodily parts. 8. With the thumb close the right nostril and This is one Loma-Viloma S¿ryavedhana inhale air from the left nostril. Think that Pr³öay³ma. Pr³öa pulled within via via the Ió subtle nerve Pr³öa shining inhalation of air is awakening the Kundalinº. brilliantly like the Sun and mixed in air It pierces its lethargy and dark gloominess. is entering the body. This light is entering From there via the SuÌumn³ path this radiance the M¿l³dh³ra Cakra at the base of spinal travels to the stomach, chest and throat. Hence cord. It is getting focused there. Due to this Pr³öay³ma is called S¿ryavedhana. the focus of this radiant light this Cakra is Loma means straight and Viloma means becoming more radiant and the Kundalinº upside down - once inhaling from right and power is getting awakened. exhaling from left and then inhaling from left, exhaling from right. Because of this cycle of 9. Now shut both the nostrils. Stop the air straight/upside down it is called Loma-Viloma from flowing out of the body. Meditate S¿ryavedhana Pr³öay³ma. A healthy mind has an easy breath. - Author Unknown 49
Amazing Facts of Polar Regions Ever since the discovery of North Pole enough to provide enough heat to the living beings in by Robert E. Peary, Matthew Henson, those regions. Rest of the six months, it is dark there. and four Eskimo companions in 1909, it Similar situation has been observed in the Arctic has been a place of international interest due to region of North Pole, with average temperature of the vast underground oil reserves in the Arctic 0° C (in summer) and - 40° C (in winter). Circle. North Pole is situated in the Arctic Circle and the South Pole is in Antarctic Circle. There These seemingly barren landscapes are home to a are actually two North Poles on Earth. They are rich diversity of wildlife—both on land and under called north magnetic pole and north terrestrial the sea surface—that has evolved to survive these pole. North Magnetic Pole is said to be magnetic harsh conditions. The outer reaches of the Arctic phenomena that change on the daily basis as our Circle are a great place to see polar bears in the Earth crust changes. The average location of the wild. Other Arctic dwellers are Orca, Humpback, Magnetic North Pole is called Geomagnetic and Beluga whales, and the arctic fox. Several North Pole. North terrestrial pole is a fixed point species of flying penguin-like birds called auks, which points the top of the earth. guillemots, and puffins can also be seen in the Arctic Circle. Penguins are not found in the North North Pole is created by the accumulation of Pole. They live in the South Pole. floating ice pieces coming from Arctic sea. The latter has an area of 9 to 12 million square Despite the freezing-cold temperatures, millions kilometers, and thickness of 3 to 4 meters, with of indigenous people, called the ‘Inuits’ live in ridge height of 20 meters. In contrast, Antarctic the Arctic region. They’ve found ingenious ways sea is spread in around 14 million square to survive in one of the harshest environments on kilometers. It is covered by 3 kilometers wide our planet. They have traditionally inhabited the thick layer of ice on South Pole. North Pole’s peak northern circumpolar region from eastern Siberia is created by the top thick layer of ice present on to across Alaska. People live in semicircular house Arctic sea, whereas South Pole’s peak, is created made of ice blocks, which is known as Igloo. Their from Antarctic region’s deep embedded ice layer, major food for survival, are fish. Reindeer is their present in the Antarctic Iceland. main pet animal and is used for drawing sledges and as a source of milk, flesh, and hide. The average temperature of South Pole has been observed to be - 28° C (during summer) and - 60° This demonstrates that one can survive in any C (in winter). Sun shines for about six months situation with wisdom, confidence and courage. continuously; however, sun rays are never warm For determined people, nothing is impossible. For humans, the Arctic is a harshly inhospitable place, but the conditions there are precisely what polar bears require to survive - and thrive. ‘Harsh’ to us is ‘home’ for them. - Sylvia Earle 50
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