Ashram Yoga : India's Spiritual Tradition » mind

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 .

Originally posted here:
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.

Go here to read the rest:
Miracle Do Happen Believe In GOD

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.

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……. —

More here:
Guruvayur Ekadashi

Knowledge Sheet From Art Of Living

admin — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 05:41:00 +0000

At this time of the year people around the world are getting ready to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights. One of the biggest festivals of the East, Diwali symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. For an oil lamp to burn, the wick has to be partially immersed in the oil. If the wick is completely drowned in oil, it cannot bring light. Life is like the wick of the lamp, you have to be in the world and yet remain untouched by it. If you are drowned in the materialism of the world, you cannot bring joy and knowledge in your life. By being in the world, yet not drowning in the worldly aspect of it, we can be the light of joy and knowledge. Diwali is the commemoration of the light of wisdom in our lives. Lamps are lit on this day not just to decorate homes, but also to communicate this profound truth of life. Light the lamp of wisdom and love in every heart and bring a radiant smile on every face. Diwali is also called Deepavali, which literally means rows of lights. Life has many facets and stages to it and it is important that you throw light on each of them, for life to be fully expressed. The rows of lights remind you that every aspect of life needs your attention and the light of knowledge. Every human being has some good qualities. And every lamp that you light is symbolic of this. Some people have forbearance, some have love, strength, generosity, while others have the ability to unite people. The latent values in you are like a lamp. Don’t be satisfied with lighting just one lamp; light a thousand! You need to light many lights to dispel the darkness of ignorance. By lighting the lamp of wisdom in yourself and acquiring knowledge, you awaken all facets of your being. When they are lit and awakened, it is Diwali. Another profound symbolism is in the firecrackers that are burnt on this day. In life, you often become like a firecracker, waiting to explode with your pent-up emotions, frustration and anger. When you keep suppressing your emotions, cravings and aversions, they are bound to reach a bursting point. Bursting crackers is a psychological exercise created by the ancient people to release bottled-up emotions. When you see an explosion outside, you feel similar sensations within you as well. Along with the explosion, there is so much light. When you let go of these emotions, serenity dawns. There is also symbolism in the exchange of gifts and the distribution of sweets during Diwali. Sweets and gift exchanges symbolize the dispelling of the bitterness of the past, and renewal of friendship for the times to come. Any celebration is incomplete without the spirit of service. Whatever we have received from the Divine, we should share it with others because it is in giving that we receive — that is true celebration. Happiness and wisdom have to spread and it can happen when people come together in knowledge. Diwali means to be in the present, so drop the regrets of the past and the worries of the future and live in the moment. It is a time to forget the bickering and negativities that have happened through the year. It is a time when you throw light on the wisdom you have gained and welcome a new beginning. When true wisdom dawns, it gives rise to celebration. Celebration is the nature of the spirit. The ancient sages brought sacredness in every celebration, so that you don’t lose the focus in the hustle-bustle of the activity. Observing rituals and religious practices (called Puja) is simply showing one’s gratitude to the Divine. This brings depth to the celebration. The tradition is to put all the wealth you have earned in front of you and feel the abundance. When you feel lack, the lack grows but when you put your attention on abundance, then the abundance grows. In the Arthashastra, Chanakya says, “Dharmasya Moolam Arthah,” which means, “prosperity is the root of righteousness.” For the one who does not have spiritual knowledge, Diwali comes only once a year, but for the wise, Diwali is every moment and every day. Wisdom is needed everywhere. Even if one member of the family is shrouded in darkness, we cannot be happy. We need to ignite the light of wisdom in every member of your family, extend it to every member of society and every person on the planet. When true wisdom dawns, it gives rise to celebration. The Yajurveda says, “Tanme Manaha Shivasankalpam astu” — let noble intentions flow from this mind of ours. This Diwali, celebrate with knowledge and take an intention to serve humanity. Light the lamp of love in your heart; the lamp of abundance in your home; the lamp of compassion to serve others; the lamp of Knowledge to dispel the darkness of ignorance; and the lamp of gratitude for the abundance that the Divine has bestowed on us. || Jai Guru Dev ||

Originally posted here:
Knowledge Sheet From Art Of Living

Parsuit Of Excellence

adam — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:35:00 +0000

The statements of the Upanishads were pronounced millions of years ago; but these statements are relevant even today. Yet there is a perennial doubt about knowing one’s Self (Atma) or the Supreme Brahman because scriptures state that it has no qualities or attributes, and that it cannot be known by the sense organs; moreover, it is also stated that it is not an object to be known. So one may ask whether such a quest to know the Self is worth all the effort. Lord Krishna allays these doubts in the Bhagavad Gita, asserting that this knowledge can be gained by approaching a Guru who is knowledgeable in the scriptures and is a knower of the Truth (Tatva Darshina). The Bhagavad Gita may be a political and administrative gospel where Krishna represents the country’s culture and thought process in its climax, while it unfolds the ideal of excellence that every individual would aspire for, pointed out Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha in a lecture. This excellence is made possible only with the individual’s will power and strength. Purity of mind is important for excellence in performance. Every individual is a psycho-physical complex being where the two aspects are seamlessly melded. Speaking, walking, or sleeping involve the coordination of the physical and the mental powers. But it is the subtle Self (Atma) pervading the entire individual’s personality that is responsible for activating these physical and mental faculties. The crucial message is that the mind is the crux of one’s personality and it can be moulded. It is the inner instrument that can look and assimilate the external world on the one hand and also help us to look inwards to realise our inner Self. All the excellences based on thoughts and feelings pertain to the mind. It is capable of building the inner personality and giving the impetus for excellence. God’s power of Sankalpa is tremendous. While this manifested universe of matter and energy depends on God, He remains a supra-material presence and is the essence of consciousness, bliss and eternal existence. This same consciousness is also within us.

More:
Parsuit Of Excellence

Art Of Living – Knowledge Sheet 16 – Book 1 – BIG MIND

admin — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:06:36 +0000

This is from An Intimate Note to the Sincere Seeker Book 1 by Art of Living. The knowledge I am reading was given by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on 27 Sep 1995 Bangalore Ashram, India. — BIG MIND You know there is a Big Mind and a small mind. Sometimes the Big Mind wins over the small mind and sometimes it is the other way around. When the small mind wins over, it is misery and when the Big Mind wins, it is joy. Small mind promises joy and leaves your hand empty. Big Mind may bring resistance in the beginning but fills you with joy. The word Guru means great. Jaya means victory. Deva means one who is fun-loving, playful, light. One who is playful is often not dignified and when one is dignified, he is often not playful. Jai Guru Dev is victory to the Big Mind in you that is both dignified and playful. That is what Jai Guru Dev means: “Victory to the Greatness in you.” You do not say victory or hail to the Master as he has won over already. You say victory to your own Self, your own Mind, which is being veiled by the small mind. — Jai Guru Dev

Art Of Living – Knowledge Sheet 23 – Book 1 – BOREDOM AND SADHANA

admin — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 14:39:41 +0000

This is from An Intimate Note to the Sincere Seeker Book 1 by Art of Living. The knowledge I am reading was given by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on 15 Nov 1995, Bangalore Ashram, India. — BOREDOM AND SADHANA What is boredom? A repetition without interest or love causes a monotonous state of mind; that is boredom. It overshadows the Self. A practice or abhyasa is again a repetition whose purpose is to destroy the boredom and reunite with the Self. In this process the practice itself creates boredom and as you continue, it penetrates the boredom and destroys it once and for all. Whether the practice gives you joy or boredom, it must be continued. Only the practice or abhyasa can annihilate the Mind. Self is Love and Love is always repetitive. That is why love letters are simply repetitive and there is no boredom there. If you are bored with yourself then how much more boring you would be for others. Root out the boredom in you through deep and continued meditation. Wake up and Walk up. — Jai Guru Dev

Guidelines for Spiritual Practice

adam — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 06:47:00 +0000

Spiritual practices should not be done in public or for show. If you do them before others, that will be harmful to you. People will pass comments and make fun of you and offer you unsolicited advice and conflicting suggestions, as a result of which various doubts will arise in your mind and your spiritual progress will be obstructed. The ideal sadhaka behaves thus – he goes to bed at night with the mosquito curtain drawn down. Everybody thinks that he is sleeping, but as a matter of fact, he spends the whole night in Japa and medication, lying quietly on his bed. While you are young, you must try hard to get a taste of divine bliss. When once you have got this taste of divine bliss. When once you have got this taste, you can never forsake your Sadhana. Even at the risk of your life, you will continue your spiritual practices. Those who are troubled with too much sleep in the night will do well to sleep during the day, with a view to devote the night to meditation. The best time for meditation is dawn, dusk and midnight. Too often people waste these valuable periods in useless ways. Sri Ramakrishna never spent the night in sleep, nor would he allow the young devotees who stayed with him to sleep at night. When others had gone to bed, he would wake up his disciples saying,’ Why are you sleeping? Have you come here to sleep?’ He would give them definite instructions and send them to the Panchavati, or the Mother’s temple, or the Siva temples for meditation. They would spend the whole night in Sadhana as directed, and take rest during the day. It was in this way that Sri Ramakrishna used to take them through various spiritual exercises. Often he used to say,’ Three classes of people keep awake in the night – Yogis, Bhogis and Rogis. You are all yogis. You should by no means sleep away the night’. Source: Eternal Companion – Life and Teachings of Swami Brahmananda

Link:
Guidelines for Spiritual Practice

A victim of vices

admin — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 15:58:00 +0000

By Jaya Srinivasan The human mind falls an easy prey to the pulls of vices such as jealousy or anger that bring down a person’s moral worth in no time. When Manthara, the hunchbacked nursemaid of Kaikeyi, tempted her with the attractive prospect of her becoming the queen mother only if Bharata ascended the throne, Kaikeyi’s spontaneous response reflects her basic noble nature.Such an idea had never crossed her mind at any point of time prior to Manthara raising the issue. In fact, Kaikeyi was delighted about the coronation preparations that were in the offing for Rama. We see in Kaikeyi not only a mother’s innocent and unalloyed love for her son, but also a remarkable perception of truth in her assessment of Rama. She confesses that she considers Rama as her own son. Rama is as dear as Bharata, if not even more. She finds great pride in the way Rama serves her — on a par with the way He serves Kausalya. Rama’s penchant for Truth is unparalleled. As the eldest son of Dasaratha is He not the rightful heir? If Rama has the kingdom, then it is equal to Bharata having it as well. Kaikeyi chides Manthara for her jealous feelings. How can anyone be disappointed when the entire city rejoices at the joyful tidings of Rama’s coronation? Manthara highlights the danger for Kaikeyi, if Rama ascends the throne. It would make Kausalya the queen mother and Kaikeyi would lose her edge and must be content to toe the lower rungs in the palace. Kaikeyi begins to believe Manthara’s viewpoint and in a short while, she begins to see eye to eye with her. Her earlier goodness disappears and her only intent now is to send Rama to the forest and win the kingdom for Bharata. The motive for Manthara’s grouse against Rama finds mention in the Azhwar’s hymns and in Kamban’s. There is a reference to Rama’s childhood when He used to shoot mud-balls from his bow and at times He would aim it on the hunchbacked maid. Other sources imply that both Kaikeyi and Manthara were divine agents sent to accelerate the annihilation of Ravana .

More:
A victim of vices