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Why To Visit Temples ?

adam — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:43:00 +0000

WHY TO VISIT TEMPLES ? There are thousands of temples all over India in different size, shape and locations but not all of them are considered to be built the Vedic way . Generally, a temple should be located at a place where earth’s magnetic wave path passes through densely . It can be in the outskirts of a town/village or city, or in middle of the dwelling place, or on a hilltop . The essence of visiting a temple is discussed here . Now, these temples are located strategically at a place where the positive energy is abundantly available from the magnetic and electric wave distributions of north/south pole thrust . The main idol is placed in the core center of the temple, known as “Garbhagriha” or Moolasthanam . In fact, the temple structure is built after the idol has been placed . This Moolasthanam is where earth’s magnetic waves are found to be maximum . We know that there are some copper plates, inscribed with Vedic scripts, buried beneath the Main Idol . What are they really? No, they are not God’s / priests’ flash cards when they forget the shlokas . The copper plate absorbs earth’s magnetic waves and radiates it to the surroundings .. Thus a person regularly visiting a temple and walking clockwise around the Main Idol receives the beamed magnetic waves and his body absorbs it . This is a very slow process and a regular visit will let him absorb more of this positive energy . Scientifically, it is the positive energy that we all require to have a healthy life .. Further, the Sanctum is closed on three sides . This increases the effect of all energies . The lamp that is lit radiates heat energy and also provides light inside the sanctum to the priests or poojaris performing the pooja . The ringing of the bells and the chanting of prayers takes a worshipper into trance, thus not letting his mind waver . When done in groups, this helps people forget personal problems for a while and relieve their stress . The fragrance from the flowers, the burning of camphor give out the chemical energy further aiding in a different good aura . The effect of all these energies is supplemented by the positive energy from the idol, the copper plates and utensils in the Moolasthanam /Garbagraham . Theertham, the “holy” water used during the pooja to wash the idol is not plain water cleaning the dust off an idol . It is a concoction of Cardamom, Karpura (Benzoin), zaffron / saffron, Tulsi (Holy Basil), Clove, etc . . . Washing the idol is to charge the water with the magnetic radiations thus increasing its medicinal values . Three spoons of this holy water is distributed to devotees . Again, this water is mainly a source of magneto-therapy . Besides, the clove essence protects one from tooth decay, the saffron & Tulsi leafs protects one from common cold and cough, cardamom and Pachha Karpuram (benzoin), act as mouth fresheners . It is proved that Theertham is a very good blood purifier, as it is highly energized . Hence it is given as prasadam to the devotees . This way, one can claim to remain healthy by regularly visiting the Temples . This is why our elders used to suggest us to offer prayers at the temple so that you will be cured of many ailments . They were not always superstitious . Yes, in a few cases they did go overboard when due to ignorance they hoped many serious diseases could be cured at temples by deities . When people go to a temple for the Deepaaraadhana, and when the doors open up, the positive energy gushes out onto the persons who are there . The water that is sprinkled onto the assemblages passes on the energy to all . This also explains why men are not allowed to wear shirts at a few temples and women are requested to wear more ornaments during temple visits . It is through these jewels (metal) that positive energy is absorbed by the women . Also, it is a practice to leave newly purchased jewels at an idol’s feet and then wear them with the idol’s blessings . This act is now justified after reading this article . This act of “seeking divine blessings” before using any new article, like books or pens or automobiles may have stemmed from this through mere observation . Energy lost in a day’s work is regained through a temple visit and one is refreshed slightly . The positive energy that is spread out in the entire temple and especially around where the main idol is placed, are simply absorbed by one’s body and mind . Our practices are NOT some hard & fast rules framed by 1 man and his followers or God’s words in somebody’s dreams. All the rituals, all the practices are, in reality, well researched, studied and scientifically backed thesis which form the ways of nature to lead a good healthy life . The scientific and research part of the practices are well camouflaged as “elder’s instructions” or “granny’s teaching’s” which should be obeyed as a mark of respect so as to once again, avoid stress to the mediocre brains .

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Why To Visit Temples ?

Miracle Do Happen Believe In GOD

admin — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:15:00 +0000

जा तू मेरै वलि है ता किआ मुहछंदा ॥ Jā ṯū merai val hai ṯā kiā muhcẖẖanḏā. When You are on my side, Lord, what do I need to worry about? Transcribed hereunder from SikhiWiki – the ‘Free Sikh Encyclopaedia’ is an autobiographical account of Late Mr. Vasu Bhardwaj, erstwhile Special Correspondent of the Gujarati Daily, “Mitr”, published from Surat, India. Mr Bhardwaj, a Science Researcher with an American educational background was working in India when in 2001 he was diagnosed suffering from Bone Cancer, which his Oncologists and Haematologists soon opined was Incurable… “When recitation of Gurbani cured me of deadly cancer, I experienced God.” If God is with me, who can harm me? : Not even the deadliest disease of cancer can take my life away and that is exactly the divinely inspiring message of the truly miraculous story of my victorious battle against bone cancer which was medically diagnosed to be ‘Multiple Melanomas’. It was the continuous recitation of Gurbani that not only cured me of bone cancer that had already destroyed most of my bones in my skeleton, but also shattered my will to live. The blessings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib not only triggered and accelerated the processes of complete and total cure in my body, but the Guru also enabled me to experience God. This also inspired me to pursue ‘Naam Therapy’ to totally and permanently get rid of otherwise fatal bone cancer. Can Shabad-Kirtan and faithful recitation of Sri Guru Granth Sahib save me from fatal clutches of cancer? Can such a miracle happen? These were the questions that repeatedly crossed my mind and also dominated my dreams. Initially, I dismissed such ideas and being a science researcher with American educational background, I did not even believe in the existence of god. I have always been taught by my American scientists, teachers and professors that our life and the universe are governed by the irrefutable and irreversible laws of science and that God was nothing but a ‘concept’ or an illusion invented by timid and non-scientific minds. Hence, I have never been to any place of worship and also never prayed. But not anymore. Medical History It was April 27th 2002 when three different teams of oncologists and haematologists from Mumbai, Surat and Ahmedabad presented me with the unanimous medical investigation reports based on their repeatedly unanimous findings, they passed their judgment with one voice that my life is going to end in a few days as the deadly cancer called ‘Multiple Melanomas’ has ruined most of my bones that are functionally vital for my survival. On April 29th 2002, I had completed three and half years of painful life as a terminally bed-ridden cancer patient. I was slowly dying of cancer. The bony structures of my right ear had been eaten away by bone cancer that gave me total deafness in my right ear. Repeated audio graphs done by several E.N.T. surgeons proved beyond doubt that the decibel loss was irreversible and so immense that Dr. A.B.R. Desai in Mumbai, who is reputed to be the final authority on E.N.T. ailments, told me that there was something very tragically wrong with the bones in my right year and after trying several treatments, Dr. Desai told me that he has no medicine for my ailment and that I will never be able to hear with my right ear. The reputed E.N.T. surgeon Dr. Farida Wadia of civil hospital was of the opinion that if the loss of hearing in the right year was not due to nerve deafness and was really a symptomatic manifestation of some un-diagnosed ailment then the hearing will return after that un-diagnosed ailment is cured. Is she blessed with 6th, 7th and 8th sense? I guess say so because that is exactly how the events ran their course. Medical Prognosis Poor Dr. Farida Wadia was also using her imagination like telescope in time and exactly predicting things which were yet to come. Later, it was Dr. Kiran Shah, the senior most reputed Oncologist and Haematologist in Surat who himself performed bone marrow analysis and gave me the shocking news that I am not only suffering from bone cancer called multiple melanomas but the cancer has already destroyed much my vital bones. As per his advice, electrophoresis of the blood and MRI – [magnetic resonance imaging] – of brain and skull as well as CT-Scan were also done at Mahavir General Hospital which confirmed beyond doubt that I am slowly but surely dying of Bone Cancer. I had been loosing appetite and had developed dislike for food. [Anorexia Nervosa] in between, I had also suffered from tumour on the right side of my head which gave me excruciating headache and giddiness. I lost orientation and would fall after walking for 30 seconds. As soon as cancer was diagnosed, I was immediately admitted to Government Civil Hospital. There they administered six chemotherapy sessions – one every 28th day. This further destroyed my appetite and all the hair on my head and body were gone. I suffered these agonies for more than three and half years when on April 27th 2002, three teams of Doctors and Oncologists advised me that I should prepare my will as I had only a few days left. Beginning of the Miracle Now, this was the phase when the divine miracle began to take shape. It was Sardar Kesar Singh, the owner of reputed “Kwality Group of Hotels and Restaurants” in Surat and his son Sardar Manjeet Singh, who suggested to me that I should undertake a pilgrimage to the holy Golden Temple at Amritsar and offer Akhand Path and Ardas with complete faith and total devotion and pray before Sri Guru Granth Sahib to cure me of my cancer and bless me with good vibrant health and long life to remain in his service. I initially, took this suggestion very lightly and argued back that I do not understand Punjabi or Gurumukhi and would therefore, not follow any word of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and whatever brief knowledge of Sikhism and Sri Guru Granth Sahib I acquired was in April of 1999, when I wrote six researched articles on the 300 years of Khalsa celebrations published in the Indian press. But, Sardar Kesar Singh, who is also the president of Gurdwara at Udhana – Surat, convinced me that Sri Guru Granth Sahib’s blessings are not restricted to those who speak or understand Punjabi or Gurumukhi. It is the faith and sincere devotion to the Guru which makes you worthy of his blessings. Inspiration and Dedication I found Sardar Kesar Singh’s advice very much inspiring. Moreover, my sister-in-law Miss Kunti, a staunch devotee of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and a faithful follower of principles of Sikhism since her childhood, was equally instrumental in motivating me to undertake this pilgrimage. she taught me the basic philosophy of Sikhism and brought me a copy of Sri Guru Granth Sahib in English. My mother-in-law Ms. Shanti Hotchand Khatri, have a separate room at their bungalows at Baroda where they offer prayers, Ardas and listen to Shabad Kirtans every early morning. Their persuasion proved to be decisive. The Miracle So we left by Golden Temple Mail express train which departed from Surat at around 1-15 a.m. on April 29th 2002. We were received by the staff of Golden Temple and particularly Sardar Diljeet Singh Bedi who is in charge of liaisons with press and the public. Myself being a leading journalist, foreign-educated researcher and U.S.A. trained science writer, was given a VIP treatment and given accommodation in room no. 16 of Sri Arjan Dev Niwas. Since I had only a few days to live according to my doctors, they quickly made preparations for Akhand Path and Ardas after I paid Rs 2100 as fees. My wife Kanta, my daughter Halley and my brother-in-law’s daughter Puja also sat with me. I was permitted to photograph and tape-record entire Akhand Path as well as Shabad Kirtans which I wanted to keep listening till I was to breathe my last on my death–bed. Blessings But I was never to be lying on my death-bed because the moment the Granthi started reciting the Akhand Path, I began to feel streams of energy entering and flowing thru my body. It rose majestically from the pages of Sri Guru Granth Sahib like a serene cool flame of light entering my body through my fingers. The excruciating pain which I had suffered while struggling to reach the Golden Temple also disappeared. After 48 hours, I got up on my own two feet and began to feel and enjoy such vibrant health that I almost ran with joy towards Sri Arjan Dev Niwas and quickly climbed the stairs to my room no. 16. My appetite returned. I first took bath and then visited Jaliyanwala Bagh and then went to the ‘Hotel Cityheart’ and for the first time in three and half years I enjoyed a variety of Punjabi and Chinese foods which I had missed like deserts miss the rains. Return to Surat We returned to Surat on 18th May 2002 and on 25th May again ‘Bone Marrow Analysis’ and ‘Electrophoresis Tests’ were done on my body. No cancer was detected. Hence, to obtain second medical opinion, the samples were sent to Mumbai and Ahmedabad and medical doctors there also confirmed that the ‘Bone Cancer’ is gone. My Oncologist at Ahemedabad Dr. Pankaj Shah was preparing for ‘Stem Cells Transplant’ on me, which was to have cost me Rs. nine lakhs. The entire medical world was taken by surprise. All doctors agreed that this is, indeed, a miracle because there is no medicine in Allopathy that can cure deadly cancer within 48 hours and effect a 180 degree change. The latest ‘Electrophoresis’ : ‘Serum Protein Test’ done is dated April 7th 2003 at Abha Clinical Laboratory. The doctors have signed this medical test report with comments : “No Melanomas Band.” Post-Miracle Analysis I have preserved all the medical reports and x-rays done before and after the Akhand Path and Ardas at Golden Temple and they all tell the true story of my miraculous cure. Ever since this miracle, I am not only experiencing Guru’s vibrations within me but also feel God’s spiritual energy within me which inspires me and guides me in thought and deed, and vibrate in unison with him. I am joyfully back to “Cheers and Gears of Life”, soulfully sharing my God-Given Spiritual Energy with those who love and faithfully listens to Sri Guru Granth Sahib and enrich their mind, body and soul with divinely vibrant health. Chardi-Kala Now, I am enjoying the life of guru-inspired faith and taking Sri Guru Granth Sahib and God as my constant companion. It is the miracle and the divine magnetic spell of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, which I also realized through ‘Naam Therapy’ that has not only blessed me with healthy life but considering my greatly vibrant health, spiritual strength and new youthful looks and glamorous shining black hair, the same oncologists tell me that I am totally free of all kinds of diseases. I myself feel so close to the Guru that something tells me that I will live for 125 years and remain in Guru’s service and bring true love, happiness and inspiration to all my friends. My life has taken a spiritual turn. I get sound sleep without any sleeping pills. Since 25th April 2002, I am no longer on any medicine. I read Nitnem and get sound sleep and get up early to read Paath and enjoy Shabad Kirtan on Punjabi TV channel. Guru’s teachings have gone a long way in dispelling the darkness of ignorance. Guru has not only changed my destiny but made me a devotee with the faith that is not blind but enlightened. Conclusion So often, I see and meet Gurus in my dreams and they taught me a new healthy life-style to give happiness to others. I am never angry. I have no bad habits and always remain jovial. Now, my motto is: ‘people enjoy the happiness they feel. But I enjoy the happiness I give. Guru’s one of the teachings says : “Kirat Karani and Wand Chhakana” – Meaning, earn the fruits of your hard work ‘Naam Japana’; and share your fruits with others with love. I believe in the Sun even when it is not shining. I believe in love even when not feeling it. I believe in God even when he is silent. There is one God. God is truth. He is the creator of the universe and all beings. He is without fear and without hatred. He is the eternal being and the divine soul, birth less, self enlightened. He is enemy to none. Through grace of the Satguru he is met. Diseases and sins are destroyed by hearing the name of God says Guru Nanak. The Name, revealed to me by Guru’s advice, is the breath of my life and the praise of the lord is my life’s vocation. “Truth is great but greater than truth is truthful living” says Sri Guru Granth Sahib. The Khalsa belongs to [the Wondrous Guru] God; all victory of is the victory of [the Wondrous Guru] Wahe Guruji ka Khalsa – Wahe Guruji ki Fateh.

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Miracle Do Happen Believe In GOD

Seeker Of Truth

adam — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 19:39:00 +0000

After years of searching, the seeker was told to go to a cave, in which he would find a well. ‘Ask the well what is truth’, he was advised, ‘and the well will reveal it to you’. Having found the well, the seeker asked that most fundamental question. And from the depths came the answer, ‘Go to the village crossroad: there you shall find what you are seeking’. Full of hope and anticipation the man ran to the crossroad to find only three rather uninteresting shops. One shop was selling pieces of metal, another sold wood, and thin wires were for sale in the third. Nothing and no one there seemed to have much to do with the revelation of truth. Disappointed, the seeker returned to the well to demand an explanation, but he was told only, ‘You will understand in the future.’ When the man protested, all he got in return were the echoes of his own shouts. Indignant for having been made a fool of – or so he thought at the time – the seeker continued his wanderings in search of truth.. As years went by, the memory of his experience at the well gradually faded until one night, while he was walking in the moonlight, the sound of sitar music caught his attention. It was wonderful music and it was played with great mastery and inspiration. Profoundly moved, the truth seeker felt drawn towards the player. He looked at the fingers dancing over the strings. He became aware of the sitar itself. And then suddenly he exploded in a cry of joyous recognition: the sitar was made out of wires and pieces of metal and wood just like those he had once seen in the three stores and had thought it to be without any particular significance. At last he understood the message of the well: we have already been given everything we need: our task is to assemble and use it in the appropriate way. Nothing is meaningful so long as we perceive only separate fragments. But as soon as the fragments come together into a cohesive combination, a new entity emerges, whose nature we could not have foreseen by considering the fragments alone.

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Seeker Of Truth

Meditation is Action, Feeling, Understanding and Being

admin — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:55:00 +0000

By Swami Nikhilananda The first step in meditation is at the level of action. It is being mindful of what we are doing. Learn to meditate whilst performing action. This is done with a sense of service and an awareness of being an instrument in the hands of a higher power. Any action done with an attitude of offering bestows feelings of joy. It is not necessary to sit at one place or go to Rishikesh in order to meditate. With the right attitude kept in mind, even when a person fights for his country, he is in meditation. Observe great singers, dancers and artists – when they perform, free of any ego or pride, they tune themselves, becoming instruments in the hands of the Lord. Then what flow through is perfect. This is meditation in action. The next step in meditation is at the level of feeling – to experience the feeling of love for God and for all His creatures. Meera Bai and Tulsidas were in a constant state of meditation, because they loved and saw God in everything around them. Being in a state of love is to be in a state of meditation. Then, even with our eyes open, going about our daily work in the world, we are ‘in meditation’. When we express deep feelings of love and respect towards what we love and revere, in thought, word or action, we are in meditation. Seeing the whole world as an expression of God, and being in love with Nature or the inner Self is being in meditation. Once Narada Muni saw a gopi sitting alone lost in her thoughts. The gopi was yearning to be with her beloved Lord Krishna. The muni asked if she had studied the Scriptures and learnt how to reach the Lord, or whether she had gone through the different stages of meditation to attain the ultimate state of oneness with Him. The gopi innocently said that she only knew that she was in love with Krishna, and whenever and wherever she thought of her Lord, she found herself with Him. Her love was her meditation and not the study of the Scriptures. Through devotion and love alone she experienced ultimate bliss. Meditation is feeling compassion, friendship, humility, and love for that principle of Oneness pervading all beings and objects of this world. When Jesus Christ was being crucified, he cried out in prayer, “Oh Lord, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing. They are acting out of ignorance.” In that state of forgiveness, Jesus was in meditation. Meditation is not just sitting erect, controlling the breath and fighting the mind. We are in meditation by loving God, Nature and upholding higher values in our heart. We experience meditation in understanding the true nature of the Universe, through the intellect or buddhi. The philosophy of division sees differences, creates hatred, violence, misery, and agitation in the mind. This cannot give us peace and quietude. The Vedanta philosophy of Advaita views the whole cosmos and every thing in it as pervaded with Ishwara or God. Through touching, seeing, smelling, hearing and tasting we transact with God alone. See the whole Universe as one family—Vasudhaiva kutumbakam. In this understanding of Oneness, we are in a state of meditation. The highest state of meditation is at the level of being. To reach that state of meditation, we do not have to do anything, because just being is meditation. That is why we are called human beings! In this state we identify with the core or divinity in us – the Principle of Consciousness and Bliss. A person in this state of joy is in a state of meditation. All realized masters reached that state of effortless meditation, by just being aware of the present moment. Learn from the past, plan for the future but live in the present, in the ‘now’, aware of your real Self. Living in the present alone, gives the necessary alertness to effectively respond to all kinds of situations. To experience peace, happiness and fulfillment in life, practice meditation – in action, feeling, understanding and just being. To achieve the best, perform actions with complete awareness and mindfulness, combined with a sense of service. Consider yourself an instrument in the hands of a higher power. Recognize negative emotions such as greed, jealously, fear and anger. Endeavour to overcome them with feelings of love. Love is divine; love is giving, not demanding. We do not fall in love; we rise in love with God. Realize your oneness with all living beings, nature, and the cosmos. Succeed in the practice of meditation and experience the joy and bliss of being.

Proper Meditation

adam — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 07:08:00 +0000

By Sri. D.Gnanasundaram Meditation goes a long way in helping us realise God. But we spend a great part of every day gossiping and indulging in meaningless conversations. Constant talking keeps us from resorting to dhyana. A bee buzzes around a flower searching for honey. As long as it is circling the flower, it doesn’t resort to drawing of honey from it. But the moment it stops buzzing and alights on the flower, it sucks honey. Likewise, as long as we indulge in prattling about something or the other, we will never be able to approach God. But the moment we stop talking, we are able to introspect and ultimately, this kind of silent meditation is what will take us nearer God. God cannot be sought in books. Scholarship cannot make a person God-realised. God has to be experienced. Once speech ceases, the process of understanding begins. When we fry something in oil, a sizzling sound is heard, until whatever is being fried is done. After that, the oil stops spluttering. Similarly, a talkative person is shallow and is a half-baked seeker of God. Those who meditate on Him silently are the ones who will realise Him. God is simple and, therefore, does not require us to resort to severe penance to reach Him. If He were so demanding, most of us would never be released from the cycle of births and deaths. He shows us the easy way of reaching Him, through prayer and meditation. Proper meditation comes only with practice. There are many who make a mockery of vows of silence. Those who resort to mouna vrata are sometimes more distracted when they are silent than they are at other times. While they observe mouna vrata, they ask for paper and pen and write down their questions and observations. This kind of writing sometimes is so extensive that it is obvious that the person observes the vrata only as a formality. It is almost as if he could not wait for the period of silence to be over. He is so involved in observing what is going on around him and can hardly wait to participate in the conversations others have. Such a person’s silence will yield him no benefits.

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Proper Meditation

Bhai Sree’s Message

adam — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 06:53:00 +0000

Jai Shri Krishna, In this month Sandesh, Pujya Bhaishri explains the interpretation of dharmakshetra and kurukshetra from the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. His message is as follows: The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita is the means by which Lord Shri Krishna has shown the whole world the path to one’s welfare in one’s life. In the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, Lord Shri Krishna talks about dharmakshetra and kurukshetra (fields of religion and battle). In one sense, our body is a dharmakshetra and kurukshetra. To elaborate, our bodies begin to do ‘kuru kuru’ as soon as we wake up in the morning, meaning, our bodies begin to perform on task after another as soon as we wake up. In addition, if we wouldn’t have obtained these bodies, how would we perform all our deeds? All our deeds must abide by dharma. For instance, dharma must be present when a housewife prepares food for the family, or, one must abide by dharma in their employed jobs. In fact, all our deeds will turn into pooja if they abide by dharma. Furthermore, in our body, which is a dharmakshetra, lives Lord Shri Krishna in the form of aatmaa (the soul); Shri Krishna lives inside us and provides brightness and protects us. Our life is also a battlefield. Life is filled with conflicts and therefore we are bound to encounter conflict in our lives all the time. We need to become Arjun and get ready to fight. However, remember, during this battle, Lord Shri Krishna is with us; he is not for us, but with us. This battle is ours, hence we must fight it ourselves. With Blessings, Bhaishri

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Why Do Good People Suffer ?

admin — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:51:00 +0000

By Swami Tejomayananda “Why do good people suffer or why do bad things happen to good people?” This question seems to be very common these days. It seems as though good people get the brunt of all suffering, while evil-doers enjoy life. But if we observe closely, we see that everyone undergoes suffering in some form. Keeping this in mind, our question becomes meaningless. Just because a person is good does not mean there would be no suffering in his/her life. But what do we mean by ‘good’? In Sanskrit, ‘sadhu’ is the word used for a good person. Sadhu comes from the word ‘saadh’, meaning ‘to accomplish’. If we work for ourselves and achieve great things, there is nothing laudable about it, but if we help others to achieve their goals, then it is an accomplishment. If someone is good to you and you reciprocate, that is common courtesy. But if someone is harming you, and despite that you continue to wish that person well without expecting anything in return, it is real goodness. A sadhu bathing in the river saw a drowning insect. He saved it from drowning and was stung in return. Again, the insect fell back into the river and the sadhu pulled it out of the water and placed it under a shady tree. On seeing this, a person asked the sadhu, “Why did you do that?” He replied, “The insect did not give up its nature, so why should I?” How can we achieve this goodness in our lives? To reach any target, we must first have a goal. Similarly, for achieving goodness, we must have a standard of goodness which is known to us, because only then can we rise up to the required levels. As long as we see differences in the world around us, true goodness will not manifest. This can be achieved only when we become aware of our oneness with others. An example will illustrate this point better. Every organ of my body is part of one whole. If the finger goes into the eye, there is instant forgiveness, because of the complete identification with the finger. Now that we know what is good, let us see what suffering is. Objective suffering befalls all people, good or bad. Situations leading to suffering could have their roots in past actions. Objectively, the existence of pain or any other physical handicap cannot be denied, but the degree of sorrow this leads to is entirely subjective. Riches or positions of power do not guarantee happiness. People become miserable over small matters. If a person claims that he is good and is suffering, while the dishonest person is flourishing, we can be very sure that the person is not good. For a good man, the real suffering is to do something against his convictions. Suppose a pure vegetarian is faced with a situation of remaining hungry or eating beef, the chances are that the former option would be more acceptable. All our spiritual practices cannot eliminate suffering, but they protect the mind and make suffering acceptable, just as on a rainy day, we cannot stop the rain, but can protect ourselves from getting wet with an umbrella. Bhagavan Krishna says, “A good person never suffers.” By some logic we feel that suffering and enjoyment is related to past actions. If we observe at the subtle level, we find immediate results of our actions. The moment a good thought enters our mind, we feel elation, and similarly a wicked thought causes agitation. Real suffering is when we lose our goodness. Compromising with goodness is the greatest suffering. Even though superficially it may appear that evil doers are flourishing, it should not be an excuse to compromise. The problem arises when one does not have an ideal or when one is not able to live up to one’s ideal. But the greatest problem is when one believes that the ideal is not worth living up to and has lost its utility. Remember, a good man will stand by his convictions, because “If you do not stand for something, you will fall for everything.”

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Why Do Good People Suffer ?

Rankapur Temples

adam — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:20:00 +0000

Ranakpur Temples are acclaimed world-wide for their intricate and superb architectural style. These temples form one of the five major pilgrimages of the Jains. Located in village of Ranakpur near Sadri town in the Pali district of Rajasthan, Ranakpur temple lies at a distance of 95 kms in the north of Udaipur city. The temple is easily accessible from the city of Udaipur as regular buses are easily available. Built in the 15th century, Ranakpur temples are known for being the largest and most important temples of the Jain cult. The temple is said to have been built by Seth Dharna Sah (a Jain businessman) with the aid of Rana Kumbha, who ruled Mewar in the 15th century. Ranakpur got its name after the name of the Rajput Monarch and likewise the temples. The temple complex is positioned in an isolated valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range. The Jain Temples of Ranakpur are certainly creditable for their splendid architecture. This temple is wholly constructed in light colored marble and comprises a basement covering an area of 48000 sq feet. There are more than 1400 exquisitely carved pillars that support the temple. The temple is a masterpiece of architecture and boasts of not less than four additional shrines. It has 24 pillared halls with 80 domes that are supported by 400 columns. The upper and lower parts of the domes are linked by brackets that have deities’ sculptures. Above all, you would be amazed to see at a height of 45 feet engraved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures. Each column is intricately carved and it is surprising to know that no two columns have the similar design. Apart from this, another stunning act about these columns is that they change their color from golden to pale blue after every hour during the day. In the mandap (prayer hall), the two big bells of 108 kg each produce a harmonious sound on the movement. Chaumukha temple is formed like a Nalinigulm Vimana (heavenly aircraft) and provides this whole structure a celestial appearance. Conceivably, it is due to the intricacy of the structure that the temple took approximately 65 years to complete. In the complex, there are several temples including Chaumukha temple, Parsavanath temple, Amba Mata Temple and Surya Temple. Amongst all of them, Chaumukha Temple is the most important and as the term Chaumukha suggests, this temple is four-faced. Chaumukha temple is dedicated to Lord Adinath, who is the first ‘Tirthankara’ of the Jains. The Temple structure is highly compound having four different doorways to get into the chambers. These chambers ultimately take you to the main hall where the image of Adinath is positioned. The four faced image also symbolizes the Tirthankara’s quest for the four directions and ultimately the cosmos. The image is surrounded by many small shrines and domes. One more range of cells with separate roofs encircles these shrines and domes all over again. The five spires elevate above the walls and around 20 cupolas rise from roof of the pillared hall. Each spire houses a shrine and the largest shrine is the important one that addresses the central altar. The temple ceilings are festooned with foliate scrollwork and geometric patterns. The Temple of Parsavanath is another attraction that is worth visiting. Built in the mid 15th century, the temple is renowned for its engraved windows embellished with Jain figures. Parsavanath Temple is also known as Patriyon Ka Mandir. In close proximity to this temple, you can trace two other temples dedicated to Neminath (22nd saint) and Surya Narayan (Sun God) respectively. Here, Surya Narayan Temple has innumerable wall projections with circular structure. The sight of Lord Surya driven in his chariot of seven horses is truly pleasing. The dating of this temple is controversial but it is largely considered to be anywhere between the late 14th to mid-15th centuries. Inspired by a dream of a celestial vehicle, Dhanna Shah, a Porwad, is said to have commissioned it, under the patronage of Rana kumbha, then ruler of Mewar. The architect who oversaw the project is said to have been named Deepaka. There is an inscription on a pillar near the main shrine stating that in 1439 Deepaka, an architect, constructed the temple at the direction of Dharanka, a devoted Jain The origins of Jainism can be traced back to the Indus River valley civilization of 3000 B.C. Jains believe that there were 24 great teachers the last of whom was Lord Mahavira who lived during 6th century B.C. These twenty-four teachers are called Tirthankaras-people who had attained all knowledge while living (Moksha) and preached it to the people. Thus, there is not one all-powerful supreme being that controls all. Jains believe in reincarnation. Their souls, which are believed to be a unique substance in the universe, take different living forms in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. This cycle has been going on forever, the universe has no beginning or end, it has always been and always will be. The ultimate goal is to get rid of one’s karma on their soul so that they may end this cycle. Once this goal is reached their soul has attained all knowledge and it rests in the heavens forever (Nirvana). Karma theory is about actions and the results they bring to the soul’s path. It is the simply the law of cause and effect with respect to the soul. E.G. One’s actions for today will effect what will happen to them in this or their future lives. The way to get rid of one’s karma is to follow certain rules of doing good somewhat similar to the ten commandments. These include the principles of: Ahimsa – To protect all life (non-violence) Satya – To speak truth Asteya – To not steal Brahmacharya – To not commit adultery Aparigraha – To limit one’s possessions Jains uphold these principles by practicing vegetarianism, non-violence in thought, deed, and action. Jains perform their sacred rituals at the temple or Derasar. Some of these rituals are: Puja – Concentrating on one’s soul through intense prayer sometimes in the presence of sculptures of the teachers to serve as an example of how to attain Moksha. Samayik – Forty-eight minute ritual that asks for forgiveness for one’s sins Namokar Mantra – A short prayer that can be said at any time that shows obeisance to the perfect souls that have achieved Nirvana. The biggest event in the Jain calendar is the holy week (8-10 days) of Paryushan where Jains reflect upon their actions throughout the past year. The week takes place in August or September and is concluded by a three hour prayer called Pratikraman. Namokar Mantra: Elixir Itself Namo ArihantanamI bow in reverence to Arihants Namo SiddhanamI bow in reverence to Siddhas Namo AyariyanamI bow in reverence to Acharyas Namo UvajjhayanamI bow in reverence to Upadhyayas Namo Loye Savva SahunamI bow in reverence to all Sadhus Eso Panch Namoyaro This five-fold salutation Savva PavappanasanoDestroys all sins Mangalanam Cha Savvesim And amongst all auspicious things Padhamam Havai Mangalam Is the most auspicious one The ultimate power of a Mantra uttered in words and meter depends on the one who recites it, his feelings at the time and the place where it is recites. However, the Namokar Mantra while it controls our behaviour pattern and destroys our sins (Karmanashak), upon being recited increases our inner spiritual strength. It releases us from crisis, and it generates our well-being. Jain scriptures tell of its endless magical manifestation: A dog who was about to die, heard the Mantra recited by Jeevandhar and became a handsome Yaksha. A pair of serpents heard the Mantra recited by Parshva Kumar and metamorphosed into Darnendra and Padmavati. A bull while in physical agony, heard the Mantra recited by Seth Padmaruchi and in his next life became Prince Vrishabhdhvaj – the same prince was known as Sugriva later on. The nobleman Dhananjai’s son dying from snakebite heard the Mantra and regained life. Anjan the thief running from sure death learnt this Mantra and became a learned man. Aj while dying patiently heard the Mantra recited by Charudutt and reached heaven. There are endless legends about the power of this Mantra. The one who recites this sure Mantra with real faith, scales the heights of the everlasting pits of hell. In this context it would be well to recall Suhom Chakravarti’s fate. May we all learn from the teachings and beliefs of Jainism and make our souls pure and sacred so that it is ready to become one with God. __._,_.___

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Rankapur Temples

Guruvayur Ekadashi

admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:43:00 +0000

Guruvayur Krishna! “Guruvayur Ekadasi is on Dec 6th 2011, Tuesday. On Dashami day (5thDec 2011,Monday)after Nirmalya darshan ( 3.00AM ), the temple is closed only at 9.00 am on Dwadasi Day (12th day), thus Sree Guruvayurappan allows continuous “Darshan” for devotees throughout Dasami and Ekadasi Days. Jay Sree Guruvayurappa….. This day is also regarded as “Geethopadesam day”.. ….the day on which Bhagavan Krishna revealed Gita to Arjuna. Jay ParthaSaradhee……. Ekadasi is the name of the Goddess that arose from Lord Vishnu to defeat Demon Mura.The Legend is like this. Once while Bhagwan Narayan was resting a demon named Murdanav came and challenged Him to a duel. Suddenly a damsel appeared, evolved out of the Ekadash indriyas of God –.(The ten indriyas (sense organs) comprise the five karma indriyas (mouth, hands, feet, anus and genital organs) and five gnan indriyas (eyes, ears, nose, skin and tongue). The ten indriyas along with the mind are collectively known as “Ekadash indriyas”.) Murdanav was so attracted to this damsel that he asked her to marry him. The damsel agreed, but only if he agreed to a duel with her, Blinded by passion, he fought with her & she killed him. Pleased with her, God granted her a boon. She asked, “O Prabhu! As I have manifested from your Ekadash indriyas, let my name be Ekadashi. I am wedded to tap (austerity) and I desire that people should observe the Ekadashi vrat (fast) and control their Ekadash indriyas on this day. Pleased with her divine act, Bhagavan Vishnu blessed her that “anyone who observes Ekadasi fast will be freed of their sins and will attain Moksha”…..Narayana … Narayana… Ever since, we Hindus fast on Ekadashi. Ekadashi occurs twice a month in the Hindu calendar – on the eleventh day of the bright half – called Shukla Paksha and on the eleventh of the dark half called Vad Paksha ….After the morning seeveli, on Ekadasi there is a grant elephant procession to the Parthasarathi temple. Also on the Dwadasi day(12th day), there is a unique custom of offering a token amount called Dwadasi Panam in Koothambalam for the welfare of the family and it is considered highly auspicious. … Jay Sree Guruvayurappa…… On Ekadasi day, the Udayasthamana Pooja (continuous pooja) is conducted by the Devaswom itself . Guruvayur ekadasi is also known as Vaikunta Ekadashi or Mukkoti Ekadashi as it is said believed that ‘Vaikunta Dwaram’ or ‘the gate to Bhagavan’s Inner Sanctum’ is opened on this auspicious day. On this day, the Vaikunta Dwaram or the Swarga Vaasal, ‘The Gates of Heaven’ are believed to be kept open. The area encircling the sanctum is referred to Swarga Vaasal and devotees throng to gain entry into the temple, to seek the Lord. According to Vishnu Purana, fasting on Vaikunta Ekadashi is equivalent to fasting on the remaining 23 Ekadashis. On Vaikunta Ekadasi Fasting is an important aspect of the dos associated with it. People fast the whole day and keep vigil. Special prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu and devotees engage in Japa (Chanting of the Lord’s name) and Dhyana (Meditation). On ‘Dasami’, the previous day of the observance, devotees who take up Vaikunta Ekadasi fasting are to take only lunch. On Ekadasi, the next day, they have to maintain a complete fast and engage in prayers and meditation of the Lord. They are strictly prohibited from taking rice. That night, people keep vigil the whole night and visit the temple of Lord Vishnu, mostly in the wee hours of the morning. All are welcome to the Sreelakam of PonnuGuruvayurappan…..SreeKrishnarppanamasthu……. —

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Guruvayur Ekadashi

Sabrimala

adam — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:41:00 +0000

View the enlarged picture by clicking on the Ayyappa picture below. Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple is one of the most ancient and prominent Sastha temples in the country. Located in the Western Ghat mountain ranges of Pathanamthitta district in Kerala, Sabarimala Sri Dharmasastha Temple is one of the few Hindu temples in India that is open to all faiths. The shrine of Sabarimala is one of the most remote shrines in southern India yet it still draws three to four million pilgrims each year. Surrounded by mountains and dense forest Sabarimala is believed to be the place where Ayyappan meditated. Perhaps the best known pilgrimage destination in Kerala is Sabarimala. Sabarimala Sri Dharmasastha Temple is the most famous and prominent among all the Sastha Temples. It is believed that “Parasurama Maharshi” who retrieved Kerala from the sea by throwing his axe, installed the idol of Ayyappa at Sabarimala to worship Lord Ayyappa. The pilgrimage begins in the month of November and ends in January. The temple attracts pilgrims not only from the southern states of India, but also from other parts of the country and abroad. The shrine gets thronged with devotees especially during the main pilgrim season from November to January. Mandala pooja (November16,2009) and Makaravilakku(Jan.14th) are the two main events of the pilgrim season. The temple stays closed during the rest of the year except for the first five days of every Malayalam month and during Vishu (April). Certain customs are to be strictly observed if one has to undertake a pilgrimage to Sabarimala. A pilgrim attending the Mandalapooja should observe austerities for 41 days. During this period, the pilgrim should abstain himself from non vegetarian food and carnal pleasures. Pilgrims set out in groups under a leader, and each carry a cloth bundle called Irumudi kettu containing traditional offerings. Unlike certain Hindu temples, Sabarimala temple has no restrictions of caste or creed. The temple is open to males of all age groups and to women who have either passed their fertility age and those before reaching the stage of puberty. The easiest route is via Chalakkayam, by which one can reach the banks of the river Pamba by vehicle. Pamba is the main halting point on the way to Sabarimala. From here one has to trek 4 to 5 kms to reach the temple. Please visit the website by copy pasting the same to your browser a panorama of Sabrimala. http://www.p4panorama.com/panos/sabarimala/index.html

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Sabrimala