History & Observance of This Occasion

History & Observance of This Occasion
From: “Gurucharan Deva”

Baba

This entire email is composed of 4 parts:
(1) Posting: History & Observance of This Occasion
(2) Addendum: There Must Not Be Many Dadhiici Divas
(3) Comments from Readers: Two Letters
(4) Trailer Quote: Tamasik Leafy Vegetable: Red Puiṋ Shak

Each section is demarcated by asterisks (***).

== HISTORY AND OBSERVANCE OF THIS OCCASION==

Namaskar,
The day of Dadhiici Divas is upon us: March 5. This occasion holds special significance as dharmic sadhakas laid down their lives for the great cause of Ananda Marga ideology. Hence this is a day to honor those who sacrificed and a time to remember the unprecedented dedication it took to build up and establish AM ideology. It is about the rise of bhagavad dharma on this earth.

As we all know prior to ’90 under Baba’s direction many great deeds were done. Along the way many gave their lives for the great cause of dharma. We should reflect upon those sacrifices done for the sake of ideology and take up the vow that once again we should protect and propagate this grand AM ideology.

As you read this full account, bear in mind that this letter addresses how a dadhiici differs from the Christian concept of martyr as well as the Muslim approach of shahiid. This letter also lists the names of those dadhiicis in Ananda Marga who sacrificed their lives for bhagavad dharma.

DADHIICI DIVAS IS ONLY CELEBRATED ON ONE DAY

Initially, Dadhiici Divas was declared in memory of those great souls who lost their lives in that tragic incident of 5 March 1967. As more struggles ensued and dedicated sadhakas sacrificed their lives for Ananda Marga ideology, Baba created the system and gave the idea that this day of March 5 will be the one single day to remember & honour all those who sacrificed their existence for the great call of dharma – AM ideology.

Initially the observation of Dadhiici Divas began with the historical sacrifice of 5 March 1967 wherein some dedicated workers and margiis were tragically and brutally murdered in a barbarous attack by the Communist Party (West Bengal). It happened in Ananda Nagar; and since then this day is held in their honour.

Yet over time Dadhiici Divas has become the day which marks the occasion to remember when any and all Margiis and WTs sacrificed their life for the great cause of AM ideology, i.e Bhagavad Dharma– irrespective of which date and in which particular manner their lives were actually sacrificed. Only one day is fixed to honor those who gave their life for the ideals of AM. And that day is Dadhiici Divas, 5 March.

THE DETAILS OF THAT FATEFUL DAY

Here is a more in-depth look back at the events which transpired on that fateful day of 5 March 1967 as well as the events leading up to it.

As is commonly known our Ananda Nagar was first started on over 1000 acres of land in Baglata, Purulia District West Bengal in 1964. And that time so many beautiful projects and programmes were started to materialise Baba’s vision. There were primary schools, a college, a medical clinic, a children’s home, etc. Many great projects were going on.

But by 1967 serious resistance started to come from the nefarious communist party – CPI(M). Those days the CPI controlled the entire local Purulia area and they had a wicked grip on the West Bengal Govt by controlling many high positions.

So now we can see how the tensions were mounting those days.Because on the one hand due to selfless service by our Marga wholetimers in & around Ananda Nagar, the local people / villagers were getting benefited and were coming close. And the villagers began to see how the CPI was exploiting them.

In reaction, the CPI(M) began to instigate local movements to conspire against AM. To that end, members plotted and convinced local BDO Ashok Chakravarty against our AN Ashram. Then in Aug 1966 this BDO (Block Development Officer) came to our Ashram saying he wanted to be a member of the controlling body of our AM Degree College.

When it was explained to him that unfortunately he did not meet our Ashram’s regulations for such a position, then he became quite furious and irate. Certainly, he was not acting on his own; rather he was just the front-man for the communist party. Then to counter-attack and get revenge BDO returned in Feb 1967 demanding for our Marga to support the local communist candidate in the General Elections. So our WT & Margii brothers and sisters humbly explained about our socio-spiritual approach and told that we do not support any political party, per se. In that circumstance this negative BDO was determined for revenge. In truth that BDO was but a pawn of the ruling communists.

The communists began an intensive campaign started to defame AM among Purulia locals. And one serious plot was hatched to attack our Ananda Nagar Ashram. No doubt local people had developed good relations with our Ashram due to the different service projects. But communist workers worked hard to undermine that.

And together with the BDO they sabotaged our relation with the villagers through numerous underhanded and grotesque scene.

For example the communists and the BDO secretly slaughtered many cows and stealthily spread those remains around the villages in the middle of the night. And they told and spread the rumours that the Ananda Marga Ashramites were responsible for the nefarious work. In result, Hindus were furious since they worship the cow as a goddess. And the CPI(M) told the Muslim villagers that the AM sadhus had been driven out of Pakistan and settled in Purulia with deep hatred toward Muslims, and that they would surely be stealing all their land.

So after drumming up sufficient nasty hatred among villagers, the CPI & BDO held another meeting in Susundi village on March 3rd 1967. And they made all the Hindus and Muslims present that day to swear by oath on the Mahabarata and Koran to remove AM sadhus by any means, including murder.

And fifth March was decided to be the day to carry out their dark plot. It was known by all, including AN Ashram residents, all Purulia gov’t and police officials and West Bengal gov’t that the event was planned.

Certainly Ananda Marga sannyasis appealed to both the Purulia gov’t and to police multiple times for protection and security from the oncoming doom. But all of those appeals were ignored. And just one skeletal, paltry force of police was assigned to the ashram grounds. That was the night of March 4th but it was all only to make a show etc. Proof being that by three o’clock in the morning of 5th March, Ananda Nagar was declared as being safe by chief of police. So he left to go back to Purulia, leaving behind only a small show of around thirty men.

But that too was only in show, as in morning when attack came, not one policeman raised his hand. And that terrible day of 5 March 1967, thousands of armed villagers arrived on the scene goaded by the hatred inculcated by CPI workers. And in that fury the villages swept through our Ananda Nagar ashram, destroying everything in sight.

On their horror-stricken path, hundreds of Ananda Nagar residents were seriously wounded and five were struck dead with mortal wounds. And not just killed, but butchered & mauled. Among those victims who fought bravely to defend Ananda Nagar & AM way of life were Dadas Abhedananda and Sachidananda.

Altogether, 5th March 1967 is a day never to be forgotten in Ananda Marga history. A day to recognise those who died for the highest goal.

A DAY TO REMEMBER THE SACRIFICE OF ALL

Since that fateful occasion, many have come forward in our Marga and sacrificed their lives for the cause of bhagavad dharma including the terrible murder of 17 Wholetimers in broad day-light in the early 80’s, and after that also all such persons who sacrificed for the special cause of AM ideology are honourably called as Dadhiicis. March 5 is in their memory as well (see list in note 1).

OBSERVATION OF THE DAY

In this way, Dadhiici Divas is known as a day of great dedication and sacrifice for the high ideal of AM ideology. It can be celebrated with due respect and regard in the following way:
(A) Half-Day Fasting
(B) Dharmacakra
(C) Slide Show: History of Struggle for Dharma in Ananda Marga
(D) Story-telling for Children
(E) Debate
(F) Poetry Readings
(G) Dance – Drama: Teach and Educate New People
(H) Talk: Review of spread of bhagavad dharma and recounting the efforts of those who sacrificed.
(I) Exhibition

DADHIICI DOES NOT MEAN MARTYR

The terms ‘Dadhiici’ and ‘Martyr’ are not the same thing. That is why Baba has specially given the occasion as Dadhiici Divas and not ‘Martyrs Day’ or ‘Shahiids Day’ etc. Because the term dadhiici bears a unique & special significance. Baba says:

“When Christians die for Christendom, they are called martyrs;
When Muslims die for Islam they are called shahiids;
When My children sacrifice their live for the ideals of Bha’gavat Dharma,
I call them Dadhiicis.” – 5 March, 1967

Hence in Ananda Marga, our concept of dadhiici has absolutely no relation with the Christian term martyr. Because Christian martyrs are only fighting for their selfish and narrow-minded group interest such as in the Crusades and other religious wars. Those martyrs did not sacrifice their lives for the welfare of one and all. In contrast in our Ananda Marga, those Dahiicis who sacrificed their lives did something for the upliftment of the entire humanity. So none should be confused that the greatness of the term “dahiicis” is similar to the dogmatic Christian concept of “martyr.” Rather these two titles are worlds apart.

SPECIAL POINT ABOUT DADHIICI

As we know, often is the case in India that martyrs are known as ‘shahiid’, which is an Arabic word. The common Hindi or Sanskrit term – Dadhiici – is not usually used.

While giving a discourse Baba make this point quite clear.

“Those brave warriors who take part in the Islamic religious wars (jeha’dd) are called muja’hid in Arabic. Those muja’hids who give up their life in battle are called shahiid. Those who are victorious in battle are called ga’jii (if they live, ga’jii; if they die, shahiid). Similarly, those who give up their life in the Christian religious wars (crusades) are called “martyrs”. By what logic then do we call those brave progeny who give up their life for their country or for any other great cause shahiid? Instead, we can use the word dadhiici for them because Mahars’i Dadhiici sacrificed his life for the welfare of others. He did not lose his life in a jihad or crusade.” (1)

In His above Baba commentary, Baba clarifies the meaning of the term shahiid and makes an explicit distinction between (a) those fanatics who die for the limited agenda of their dogmatic religion and (b) those great souls – Dadhiicis – who selflessly sacrifice their lives for that all-expansive cosmic ideology.

BABA’S ETERNAL GUIDELINES

On the occasion of this coming Dadhiicii Divas, we should reflect on its special significance and adhere strictly to Baba’s dharmic codes and teachings and establish Ananda Marga ideology. Please see

“Fight for your Ideology. Be one with your Ideology. Live for your Ideology. Die for your ideology.” (2)

“Life represents Ideology. Life should be sacrificed for the Ideology.” (3)

Namaskar,
Surrendering to Him,
Gurucharan Deva

OUR SANSKRIT / SAMSKRTA NAMES

Little by little we should all be accustomed to following Baba’s below guideline and begin at least by using Deva when we sign our emails.

Baba says, “The word deva should be suffixed to the name…the more the usage of deva as a title, the better it is. The Sanskrit name should be used in all worldly dealings.” (Caryacarya-1)

Note 1: LIST OF DADHIICIS IN ANANDA MARGA

Here following is a list of some of the brave and courageous WTs and Margiis who have sacrificed their lives for the mission:

On 5th March 1967:
Ac Abhedananda Avt
Ac Saccidananda Avt
Ac Bharat Brc
Ac Prabhash Brc,
and Ac Avadhesh Brc sacrificed their life at Ananda Nagar.

Bhagawat Panday (Ghazipur) was killed by communists.

On 28th August 1969: Brother Ravi Sarkar sacrificed his life at Coochbehar.

LFT margii Ramdhan: Burned to death in Patna Ananda Marga school during communist attack in 1970.

Ac Tyageshvarananda Avt: Bhagalpur interrogation police killed him while in jail (1972).

Those who self-immolated and sacrificed their lives – including Ac Divyananda Avt, Ac Dineshvarananda Avt, Ac Atulananda Avt, and 5 others – during the struggle when Baba was in jail.

Massacre of 30th April, 1982 at Bijon Setu (Kolkata) in broad daylight. The following dedicated
workers were murdered by communist goondhas:
Avtk Ananda Praceta’ Ac
Ac Adhishivananda Avt
Ac Bhaveshvarananda Avt
Ac Krpashivananda Avt
Ac Artasevananda Avt
Ac Subashwarananda Avt
Ac Venketashwarananda Avt
Ac Kamaleshananda Avt
Ac Girishananda Avt
Ac Prashivananda Avt
Ac Shomnath Brc
Ac Mukul Brc
Ac Virendra Brc
Ac Subrat Brc
Ac Dhruvajyoti Brc
Ac Jagamohan Brc
Sri Ram Raghuvar at Jaipur.

Jan 24, 1988:
Ac Asitananda Avt lost his life at Gilliguchi.

April 2 1990:
Ac Asiimananda Avt (an agricultural specialist) along with four brothers were brutally butchered in broad-daylight by the CPM goondas at Ananda Nagar.

June 4 1990:
Ac Ajiitananda Avt lost his life at Pundag railway station by the attack by CPM strong arms.

September 18, 2003
Ac Abhipremananda Avt was murder by B group hitmen / assassins.

To these Dadhiicis I pay my deepest salutations.

REFERENCES:
1. Varna Vijiana, Disc 21
2. Ananda Vanii #14
3. Ananda Vanii #15

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THERE MUST NOT BE MANY DADHIICI DIVAS

Recently (03 feb 2013), margii T wrote with great anticipation about setting up an observance on April 9 of this year in memory of the 40th anniversary of Dadhiici Ac Divyananda Avt who self-immolated on that day in 1973.

Margii T wrote: “I will further state that on April 9 will be the 40th anniversary of the Self-immolation of Mahadadhici Ac Divayananda Avt. I ask any those Ranchi margis who are angry at the programme being done by Tiljala margis to please organize a public programme near the old Legislative Building (Vidhan Sabha) to honour the self-immolation of this true disciple of our Baba.” (Margii T, 03 Feb 2013)

Actually this type of issue first came up after the 30th April massacre at Bijon Setu, Kolkata. That time many Bangla-speaking Wts requested Baba to change Dadhiici Divas from 5th March to 30th April. They reasoned that only 5 were killed on 5th March, whereas 17 were murdered on 30th April.

Baba gave His reply. He told that keeping Dadhiici Divas on 5th March is proper – all will be honoured on that date. So everyone understood the spirit and letter of Baba’s response. There were no more questions. 5th of March is the fixed date for observing Dadhiici Divas, regardless of any other past or future events.

The only thing that does happen on 30th April is a protest. But that is not a remembrance or honouring of the murdered Wts, nor is it called as Dadhiici Divas or Dadhiici Divas #2. That protest is done because still the case has not been resolved.

The request by Dadas to change the date to 30th April is very similar to the situation with the Jains. The Jains did not have any social service projects so they misdirected their entire wealth, time, energy, and resources in constructing temples because they did not know what to do other than that. Similarly, when some in AM do not have any committed work or social service project in mind, then they think every single sacrifice should be observed independently. Then there will be a maximum days for Dadhiici Divas programs.

We all know that Baba has graciously given 05 March as the singular day to honour and recognise the sacrifice of all Dadhiicis. Baba wants all Dadhiicis to be celebrated and honoured on the same day. So many have sacrificed and given their lives for the growth and prosperity of Ananda Marga, i.e. for the great cause of bhagavad dharma, and all should be remembered each year on 05 March. That is the official day of Dadhiici Divas as given by Baba.

Thus it is very curious why anyone would even think to observe other dates like April 9 etc. Ultimately, ours is a man-making mission. Our duty is to follow Ananda Marga ideology and follow Baba. To this end, there are diverse and dynamic plans and programs to manifest. We must serve suffering humanity in so many ways. That will all be put on hold if we start observing multiple Dadhiici Divas celebrations each year; that would start a trend whereby soon there will be 365 days of Dadhiici Divas celebrations. Clearly, this is not what we should do.

Best is to follow Baba’s stated declaration to remember all who sacrificed for the great cause of ideology on 05 March – that is our singular occasion to honour those who gave their lives for bhagavata dharma.

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LETTERS FROM READERS

Re: Ananda Marga Is Colourful

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2013/03/ananda-marga-is-colourful.html

Namaskar Gaunga,
Beautifully illustrated ! Yes, Baba has woven a beautiful garland with a huge variety of flowers having so many colors, textures and fragrances. Never before, in the history of mankind, has such a synthesis happened. Ananda marga is for all.

Thanks for the inspiration.
In Him,
Amrit Lalloo

Re: Story: Incurring Debt Ruins Mental Peace And Friendship

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2013/02/story-incurring-debt-ruins-mental-peace.html

I want to thank you all who contributed towards composing this Mail. Its was a real “eye opener ” for me and for every one who want to be away from all such problems.

THANKS. NAMASKAR. JAY BABA NAM KEVALAM

Gautam Kumar

The section below demarcated by asterisks is an entirely different topic,
completely unrelated to the above material. It stands on its own as a point of interest.

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Tamasik Leafy Vegetable: Red Puiṋ Shak

Here Baba guides us that the red, leafy puin shak (vegetable) is “bad for the mind” and hence tamasik.

“Some of you have possibly seen that there is a creeping leafy vegetable plant called puiṋ shák [Indian spinach] … slightly wild, and its leaves are small and blackish. This kind of puiṋ is called buno puiṋ [wild variety]. Although its nutritional value is as good as that of any other puiṋ, it is not good for patients suffering from acidity. Although all kinds of puiṋ have more or less the same qualities, it is the white puiṋ or puiṋ with light green large leaves that is relatively easy to digest. The wild puiṋ is bad for acidity, as the red puiṋ is bad for the mind.” (Shabda Cayanika – 4, Disc: 24, pt #33)

This red, leafy vegetable (puin shake) is found throughout Asia and is sold around the globe in Asian vegetable markets. However, as Ananda Margiis we should not ingest puiṋ shak as it is tamasik.

It should also be noted that in our Ananda Marga books, it is spelled two different ways:
(1) Puiṋ
(2) Puni

The first spelling is correct, i.e. puiṋ, and that is the way it is spelled in the above quote.

The second listing – i.e. puni – is not correct. That is not the proper spelling, yet it is written that way in some of our publications. See the below quote as an example.

The key point to keep in mind is that it grew ouy of rotten matter. So, although many communities treat this as a good vegetable, but for Ananda Margiis red puiṋ shak is tamasik and therefore avoided. This is commonly missed because sadhakas think that every leafy vegetable is sentient, but that is not true. Red puin shak is one such example.

“Static food: Food which is harmful for the mind and may or may not be good for the body is static. Onion, garlic, wine, stale and rotten food, meat of large animals such as cows and buffaloes, fish, eggs, etc., are static. Very often people eat food without knowing its intrinsic qualities. For example, the milk of a cow which has just given birth. Or white eggplant, khesárii pulse [horse gram], red puni [Basella rubra Linn.], or mustard leaves, all of which often grew out of rotten matter. In order to have a balanced mind and to progress spiritually, human beings will have to pay attention to the qualities of the food they eat. The idea that “I will just do my sádhaná and eat any food, proper or improper” will not do.” (Ananda Marga Philosophy In A Nutshell: Food, Cells, Physical and Mental Development)

For more information about this plant visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basella_alba

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Simple But Most Misunderstood Point In Our Day to Day Life

Date: 11 Feb 2013 21:35:38 -0000
From: “K Lingappa”
To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: Simple But Most Misunderstood Point In Our Day to Day Life

Baba

This entire email is composed of 3 parts:
(1) Prabhat Samgiita #1111;
(2) Posting: Simple But Most Misunderstood Point…;
(3) Trailer Quote: Ananda Margiis, Apes & Casteism

Each section is demarcated by asterisks (*).

****Here begins the Prabhat Samgiita.

“Saba’r saunge tumi a’cho, tumi a’cho, Prabhu tumi a’cho…” (PS 1111)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, my Lord, You so gracious, You are with all; O’ Prabhu, You are with everyone always. You know not any barriers of relativity. You always remain with everyone. Baba, by showering Your infinite love & compassion, You have graciously captivated and attracted my mind. Baba You are ever present – ever present.

O’ Divine Entity, in the fast, ferocious winds and strong storms of the cyclone, in the deadly grip and deathly noose of the cobra, when the god of death comes near, or when in the jaws of the enemy, in all these terrifying circumstances You shower Your sweet grace by smiling and dancing. O’ my Lord, even in the fire of the unbearable inferno, You shower Your causeless grace and turn everything into the cool balm of sandalwood. Baba, You are ever-gracious.

Baba, O’ Parama Purusa, You are present eternally. Even before anything existed and before there was even the hint of creation, You were present then also. You are the Creator. You are the origin; You are omnipresent. Even when there were no seconds, minutes, hours, days, dates, months, or years, and no one was there to count the time, and time itself was non-existent, then also You were present. O’ Parama Purusa, in that moment, You were alone. There was no divine play of the hope and hopelessness between the Lord and His devotees; just You were all alone. Baba, today You are ever-present along with Your creation. You are vibrating in Your liila’rasa, dancing with divine ecstasy in the bond of love, showering Your grace to all the jiivas, and attracting everyone close to you. Baba, You existed and You are still present; You are ever-present, omnipotent. O’ Parama Purusa, You love all and You seek the love and affection of all. Your liila is unfathomable.

Baba, You are the beginning and You are the only desideratum, the Goal. O’ Parama Purusa, please shower Your ahetuki krpa…

**** End of Prabhat Samgiita and start of the first letter ****

== SIMPLE BUT MOST MISUNDERSTOOD POINT IN OUR DAY TO DAY LIFE ==

Note: This letter is a reminder about the great import of one of our most fundamental practices. It is not a small point as it represents our entire outlook in life.

Namaskar,
In our Ananda Marga, our entire outlook and life is spiritually based – focused completely on Parama Purusa, revolving only around Baba. Our each and every thought, word, and action is aimed towards Him.

From morning till night, our existence is centered around the Divine Entity: When we awaken, we meditate on Him; when we serve others or feed a beggar, we feel that we are serving or feeding Him. When we receive anything from anyone, we feel we have gotten a gift from Parama Purusa.

When we talk to our children, we feel that Parama Purusa is expressing Himself in the form of these children, i.e. that He is in front of us in the form of these young boys and girls.

In this beautiful way the day passes – ensconced in His thought & ideation.

And our namaskar salutation is part and parcel of this flow: It is one of our daily activities that is related with Parama Purusa.

Because as we all know, when we do namaskar we are not saluting any particular individual like Ram, Shyam, Tom, Dick, or Harry, but rather recognizing the presence of the Infinite Supreme Consciousness within that person.

NAMASKAR IS TO BE DONE TO ALL

Our namaskar salutation, therefore, is to be done to all. Because it has nothing to do with one’s seniority, social stature, post, age, or any other relative factor.

Because when we do our namaskar mudra we are not bowing down to any individual per se. Rather we are paying salutation to the presence of the Divine within that person.

Baba says, “Namaska’ra…It can be done to all regardless of their age, because this mode of salutation is used with the ideation that everyone is the manifestation of the Supreme Being.” (1)

Thus part and parcel of our namaskar practice is seeing the Divine within all. That is the essence of doing namaskar. For that reason even the senior-most people in society should do namaskar to little babies, and top-level workers should do namaskar to newly initiated persons. And fellow classmates should do namaskar to each other.

So namaskar is to be done by one and all to one and all.

There should not be any shyness or feelings of superiority that inhibits this process. Because the sweet ideation behind it all is that when doing namaskar we are honoring the presence of the Supreme within that individual.

Hence, we should always be ready to do namaskar to anyone.

BE THE FIRST TO DO NAMASKAR

Secondly, side by side Baba’s guidelines is that we should be the first to do namaskar.

Baba says, “You should always make an effort to do namaskar to others first.” (2)

So these are two of Baba’s fundamental teachings about Namaskar: (a) That it is to be done to all, and (b) that one should be enthusiastic to do namaskar first.

These are two fundamentals aspects of our namaskar practice.

Reason being that namaskar is an acknowledgement or salutation to Parama Purusa in the form of that human being. It is not the act of bowing down to a particular individual. So we should readily do namaskar to everyone– first.

WE SHOULD ALWAYS SAY NAMASKAR FIRST

According to Baba, there are numerous benefits to always doing namaskar first. And Baba furthermore guides us that He always does namaskar first in order to teach others.

Baba says, “As ideal human beings you should not wait to do namaskar after another has greeted you: you should rather take the first opportunity to greet others. When someone greets you, it is merely common courtesy for you to salute back; you do not become an ideal human being thereby. Rather one who seizes the first opportunity to salute others is the ideal. So you should always make an effort to do namaskar to others first: you should not care whether the person whom you greet will greet you in return or not. (When people come to me during personal contact, I greet them first whether they salute me or not.) By giving honour to others you will not be belittled, you will rather enhance your prestige.” (3)

By Baba’s above guideline we can understand that those who do namaskar first are better than those who wait to do namaskar in response. Unfortunately, those who are unaware about this do not do namaskar first, they think they should wait for namaskar. But by this way they just cheat themselves and deprive themselves of becoming ideal human beings. That is Baba’s specific teaching.

TRUE ANANDA MARGIIS NEVER DO NAMASKAR TO ANOTHER HUMAN BEING

Unfortunately, some have forgotten this divine formula. And for that reason certain dogmatic ideas about the meaning of namaskar have crept into our Marga.

Chiefly, some have the wrong idea that when doing namaskar they are saluting another human being. When in fact the truth is we are saluting the Divinity within that human being. But due to their dogmatic understanding, some big Dadas are hesitant to do namaskar to those who are their juniors. Those Dadas think that, ‘I am more senior and more respected than him, so why should I salute or bow down to such & such person’. Hence with their dogmatic understanding, those big Dadas refrain from doing namaskar when seeing others. This is the common occurrence, especially at retreats.

At the same time, Baba guides us that we should always to namaskar to others first. And if those Dadas understood that by doing namaskar they are honoring the Supreme and not bowing down to some human being, then they would surely follow Baba’s guideline: They would be the first to do namaskar.

But since they have the dogmatic view that by doing namaskar they are bowing down to some human being, then they do not like to do namaskar. And that is exactly what happens when big Dadas go to any public gathering or retreat. They expect the entire campus to do namaskar to them, but unto others they refrain, or at best do namaskar in reply. But again, this entire situation can be averted if everyone becomes more aware about the real nature of our namaskar practice.

NAMASKAR: MEANING OF THE TERM

Here following then is Baba’s special explanation about the meaning of namaskar.

In various discourses, Baba has explained that:

(a) The prefix ‘namah’ means ‘I salute’;
(b) The root ‘kr’ means ‘do’; and,
(c) ‘Ghain’ is simply a standard Sanskrit suffix.
(d) So: Namah – kr + ghain = Namaska’r

Hence the full meaning of ‘namaskar’ is ‘I salute’.

So the term ‘namaskar’ is grammatically vague: It does not literally qualify to whom one is saluting. It just means ‘I salute’ or ‘I pay my salutations’. Beyond that it has no further literal meaning.

Why is it like that? Why did the rs’is of old create the word in that way? Because by this way ‘namaskar’ indirectly refers to Parama Purusa.

That is why it is fitting to use the term ‘namaskar’ when addressing other jiivas– other human beings. Because the term ‘namaskar’ recognises those humans as being expressions of Cosmic Consciousness.

NOT A SALUTATION TO OTHER HUMAN BEINGS

We should not forget that no human being should salute any other human being. Ours is not like that of the military or some dogmatic regime.

Rather one should always salute Parama Purusa. Because why should we bow down to any human being? That is the spirit and this is the uniqueness of our Ananda Marga philosophy. In the various religions this supreme idea is wholly absent.

They salute human beings, but we don’t.

REAL MEANING OF NAMASKAR (REVISITED)

So ‘namaskar’ means: O’ Mr Ramesh or O’ Mr Manoranjain, I salute the Divine which is residing within you. That is the true spirit of doing namaskar.

But if Ramesh or Manoranjan is ignorant and foolish, they will think that they are being saluted. And if the one doing namaskar is foolish, he will think that he is saluting Ramesh or Manoranjain etc. Those who do namaskar in this misguided way, they commit a mistake which is commonly done in the general society – and unfortunately in our Marga as well. That is why we say the is a simple but often misunderstood point in our day to day life. Essentially, this false and ignorant manner should be stopped.

In the real sense, with the term ‘namaskar’ (literally meaning ‘I salute’), we are paying our salutations to the Divine in an indirect way. Because we seeing ‘Ramesh’ or ‘Manoranjan’ or ‘Tom’, ‘Dick’, or ‘Harry’, as being manifestations of the Supreme. Thus the word ‘namaskar’ recognises the Divine within them; it is an indirect reference to Parama Purusa.

That is the way it works.

Thus none should get confused and think that by saying ‘namaskar’ we are saluting another human being or that someone else is saluting us. It is not like that.

CONFUSION ABOUT NAMASKAR IN OUR MARGA

Unfortunately, here again let it be said that some in AMPS are confused and they think that by saying namaskar they are saluting another human being.

That is why you might have seen how some Dadas do not like to say namaskar to juniors or new margiis etc. Because they think that they themselves are someone high, worthy of respect, and that it would be unfitting to address someone younger or less senior with the term namaskar. But unto them, those same Dadas want all to quickly come and say namaskar. Because they think by this way they are getting the respect and praise of others.

So their misunderstanding works in two faulty directions. Certain top Dadas do not want to say namaskar to others as they think it diminishes their own stature. That is the first half of their dogma. Secondly, they think by having others say namaskar to them then they are getting huge honor and respect. And that is the second half of their dogma.

They do not know they are saluting the Divine when they do namaskar to others, and they do not know that the next persons is saluting God by doing namaskar to them. So that is their blindness.

This type of misdealing is all due to their misunderstanding of the term namaskar. Theirs is a dogmatic type of meaning that is wrongly based on social status and prestige. That is why some top Dadas do not like to address others by saying ‘namaskar’ and that is why they want the entire world to come to them and say ‘namaskar’.

Such is the confusion and deep rooted dogma that has infested their minds. And that is why they cannot get the spiritual benefit of using the namaskar term– because they fail to realise that by saying namaskar they are indirectly paying their respects to Baba as they have come in form of next.

For this reason one should always be zealous to do namaskar to others first. But in general, mostly people do not know this secret so they desire that others should do namaskar to them first.

MEANING OF THE MUDRA

Lastly, any discussion about namaskar would be incomplete if one fails to discuss the accompanying mudra as well.

As we all know, when we say namaskar, first we raise our palms together and touch the trikuti point with our thumbs. By this we are recognising the center of the mind which is at the ajina cakra. And then we lower our palms to the heart or the anahata cakra. By this way we are acknowledging the feeling of heart, which is one of the subcenters of the mind as it is responsible for feelings of love, affection, dedication, and respect.

So when we do namaskar, we are paying our deepest salutations to Parama Purusa with the totality of our mind and heart. And when doing the mudra we say, ‘namaskar’. This everybody understands.

By this manner we are saluting the Divine Entity inside the next person and by this way our entire mind & heart gets spiritualised. Because doing the mudra is very helpful for inculcating the proper ideation.

It is just like if you try doing sastaunga pranam from a standing position then it does not work nearly as well as when you do sastaunga pranam while lying on the ground in the proper mudra. Here the whole point is that the mudra supports the ideational flow in the mind since when we do any mudra then it brings the mind and body into one parallel position, which ultimately reinforces the idea in the mind.

That is the specialty of our namaskar mudra.

SUMMARY: OUR NAMASKAR IS UNIQUE

We can see that throughout this entire world there are hundreds of ways to salute someone, but the way in AM is unique and divine. That is why we must propagate this unique practice all around. All should understand the true meaning of this salutation and follow it– in body, heart, and mind.

BABA’S RELATED TEACHINGS

“Namaskára: Namaskára is done by bringing the palms together and touching the ájiṋá cakra [the mid-point of the eyebrows] with the thumbs, without bowing. It can be done to all regardless of their age, because this mode of salutation is used with the ideation that everyone is the manifestation of the Supreme Being.”
Do not shake hands with anyone, because it is unhygienic, and do not do kurnish [a kind of court salute signifying submission to one’s authority] to anyone, as you are not anyone’s slave. Kurnish is a symbol of slavery, so as a form of salutation it is strictly forbidden.” (4)

“Tadekam jagatsákśiirúpam namámah. “If there is anyone to whom spiritual aspirants should surrender, if there is anyone to whom they should pay salutations, it is Parama Puruśa.” The system behind salutations is to look for the Supreme Being that is the inner essence of a person, and to pay salutations to that Parama Puruśa. The generally-accepted rule is that one should say namaskára to a human being or a god or goddess, but one should say namaste or namastubhyam only to Parama Puruśa, not to any other entity.” (5)

“Tadekam jagatsákśiirupam namámah – “If I am to pay respect to anybody, I am to pay respect to You only.” Because all other objects of this universe are expressions of that very Parama Puruśa. So I pay respect to the Nucleus who created all these great personalities, all these little and big ones.”
“As per yoga and Tantra, to Parama Puruśa one is to do namaste. Namah plus te – “I pay respect to You” – namaste. And namaskára means, “I am paying my respects.” And that is why you may use the word namaste only for Parama Puruśa, but namaskára for both Parama Puruśa and the jiiva [unit being]. Tadekaḿ jagatsákśiirupaḿ namámah – “If I am to pay respect to anybody, I am to pay respect to You only.”” (6)

“If I ever salute anyone, I will salute only the Supreme One and no one else.” The rule is, if you pay salutations to a human being, you should say “Namaskár”, but if you pay salutations to Parama Puruśa, you must say “Namaste.” Namaste means “I salute Thee.” Human beings are greeted with the word “Namaskár” because they are considered to be the expressions of the Supreme Being. They should not be greeted with “Namaste.” In the case of Parama Puruśa either “Namaste” or “Namaskár” is permissible.” (7)

“How to pay salutations to Parama Puruśa? Namastubhyam or namaste. Namah plus tubhyam make up namastubhyam, and namah plus te make up namaste – “We do namah to You.” To jiivas [unit beings], it is namaskára – short for Namah karomi – “I greet, I salute.” Here there is no tubhyam or te, that is, “you”. To jiivas, namaste or namastubhyam should not to be said; namaskára should be said. But to Parama Puruśa you can say anything you like – namaste, namastubhyam, namaskára. And if you do not wish to say either namaste or namaskára, it does not matter. After all He is only a member of your own family.” (8)

“A person who is always engaged in the thought of his or her pratiśt́há must learn how to care about the respect and prestige of others. Such a person must never forget that respect begets respect, and that he or she should always honour those who are not honoured by anyone. A constant practice of this type will remove the evil effects of the desire for pratiśt́há. One easy way to do this is that you always do namaskára first and do not create a situation in which you may have to do prati-namaskára.” (9)

“We say, Namaskár. That is, “I pay respect to the Supreme Entity residing within you.” You should remember this. “I concentrate all the good feelings of my mind here in the trikut́i [between the eyebrows].”…So many thoughts are in your mind. But you should concentrate all your thoughts at a particular point, here – that is, with all the strength and goodwill of your mind you are doing this – you are touching these two palms here [trikut́i]. That is, you are concentrating all your goodwill here, because you are paying respect to Parama Puruśa residing within this body; this body; this body; this body [pointing to different people]. First do this.”
“And not only mental concentration, you are human beings, you have got so many sentiments also. Human sentiment, you know? When you feel much joy you burst into tears, when much sorrow you burst into tears. These are sentiments. And human beings are guided by sentiment, more by sentiment than by logic, you must not forget it – more by sentiment than by logic. So your sentiment is also there, so with all the concentration of your mind and with all the sweetness of your sentiment, from the very core of your heart, you are paying respect to Parama Puruśa residing within human structure. So you do this [palms together at mid-point of chest], and say, Namaskár.”
“I think you have understood it? A very sweet idea. So it is my opinion, my desire, that human society [be] one, indivisible; it is an expressed form, a sweet expression, of Parama Puruśa, to whom you should always pay respect by doing namaskár.” (10)

BABA’S BLESSING

Baba has graciously blessed as with a salutation system that brings one closer to Him. Because when we do namaskar we are not saluting any human being, rather we are distinctly paying our salutations to Him– drawing ourselves closer to Him, by His grace. That is one special aspect of doing namaskar.

Baba says, “The only goal of living beings is to attain Parama Purus´a. This singular goal should permeate the major portion of the activities of ideal human beings. You should always remember that from the moment you get up until the moment you go to sleep, Parama Purus´a is your supreme Goal. Whatever you do, you should do keeping your vision fixed on that Goal.” (11)

Namaskar,
in Him,
Karun

Note 1: ABOUT THE SUFFIX GHAIN

As we all now know, the term namaskar is derived from the root ‘namah’ meaning ‘I salute – ‘kr’ meaning ‘do’ + ‘ghain’, which is one of the many traditional suffixes in Sanskrit. For those interested, on page 1413 of Baba’s Sanskrit Grammar Book, He outlines many words that employ
the suffix ghain:

yuinj + ghain = yoga

div + ghain = deva

rainj + ghain = ra’ga

kr + ghain= ka’r

So ghain is a commonly used suffix in Sanskrit and is also used in the formation of the term ‘namaskar’. For more about this linguistic science or to learn more about the use of the ghain suffix, then please refer to Baba’s Sanskrit Grammar Book.

REFERENCES:
1. Caryacarya – 1, Chapter 7
2. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life – 11
3. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life – 11
4. Caryacarya – 1, Methods of Salutation
5. Subhasita Samgraha – 11, The Intuitional Science of Tantra
6. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 12, What Are You?
7. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life – 11, Relativity and the Supreme Entity
8. Subhasita Samgraha – 21, Náma and Námii
9. Subhasita Samgraha – 21, Náma and Námii
10. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 30
11. Subhasita Samgraha – 12

The section below demarcated by asterisks is an entirely different topic,
completely unrelated to the above letter. It stands on its own as a point of interest.

*****************************************
Ananda Margiis, Apes & Casteism

“Ananda Margiis have no caste or gotra. I have said before also that the division of humanity into Káshyapagotra, Bharadvájagotra, etc., is nonsensical. This is just to mislead people. If we look back in [anthropology] we will see that the forefathers of the present-day humans were apes or ape-men. So if people are very particular about their gotras, I will say to their faces, “Boys and girls! You belong to the ape gotra.””

“We have all descended from our common ancestors, the apes. The same is true in relation to the castes. [One might try to argue that] the forefathers of the Bráhmańas were the ape-Bráhmańas and the forefathers of the Kśatriyas were the ape-Kśatriyas; but that just isn’t so. As apes do not have any particular caste, the present-day caste differences are all hypocrisy and maliciousness. You should remove even the least vestige of these nonsensical notions. You must not give credence to such things.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 7, Bhaerava and Bhaeravii)
*****************************************

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The Dogma Started by Cowards & Opportunistic Intellectual

From: “Liila / Leslie”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: The Dogma Started by Cowards & Opportunistic Intellectual
Date: Sun, Feb 10 2013 22:34:56 (00:00)

Baba

This entire email is composed of 3 parts:
(1) Prabhat Samgiita #1272;
(2) Posting: The Dogma Started By Coward And Opportunistic Intellectuals
(3) Trailer Quote: Everyone Is Interdependent.

Each section is demarcated by asterisks (*).

Baba

Intro to PS: In this song the devotee is innocently sharing his inner heart feeling about that most loving Entity, Parama Purusa. Yet, unbeknownst to him, the very Personality whom the devotee is communicating with is none other than Parama Purusa Himself. So that is the unique aspect of this song.

“A’ma’r gopan kathá jene niyeche” (PS 1272)

Purport:

My Parama Purusa is my most close and most dear; He is surrounding me in all the ways; I remain under His eternal shelter. He understands all the vibrations of my mind, all the feelings of my heart – all my secret tales. He knows me inside and out; He is aware about everything. He understands the pain and longing of my heart; He knows what is good for me and what is bad for me; what is for my welfare; and, what I should and should not do. All these things He understands well. Parama Purusa is my everything. My entire existence is within His mind. Everything is at His fingertips. He knows everything about me.

Whatever I try hide to from Him cannot remain hidden – ever; everything gets exposed. He is well aware about my secret tales. Whatever I think, He knows. Nothing can be hidden from Him. Everything is within His reach. He brings everything into the light of His awareness.

He resides in the depths of my heart. He saturates my soul with the sweetness of His mind. By remaining there, my whole being gets saturated by His divine presence. So He is my most dear One. In my inner-heart and inner-mind He whispers sweet, loving words into my ears.

Parama Purusa is living in my heart and He knows everything. Indeed He is more aware about my whole existence than I am myself. And He eternally guides me and keeps me under His loving care and shelter. In that way I am moving – I feel so blessed. I don’t wat anything but Him and Him alone…

**** End of Prabhat Samgiita and start of the first letter ****

== THE DOGMA STARTED BY COWARD AND OPPORTUNIST INTELLECTUALS ==

Namaskar,
One dogma has been started by certain individuals and that dogma must be removed from our Ananda Marga society.

NOT PRAISEWORTHY TO USE NON-SANSKRIT NAMES

As we have seen in the past that when Sanskrit names were introduced into our Ananda Marga society, then in the beginning many were feeling uncomfortable or reluctant to use their Sanskrit names in public. And some still today in their day to day worldly dealings do not like to use their Sanskrit name.

I think all this happened because of a weakness of the mind and lack of proper moral strength.

In His DMC discourse, Baba explains that those who suffer from such a weakness of mind due to materialism or other negative philosophies get such psychic complexes.

Baba says, “Those who are reared in the cradle of materialistic ideologies, feel shy or ashamed at first to sit in meditation in the presence of others.” (1)

Likewise, those who do not like to use their own Sanskrit name are not doing something great or praiseworthy etc. Rather their faulty manner is the expression of a weak mind. It is clear by Baba’s above guideline.

Pseudo-culture is such a prevalent thing, and using one’s non-Sanskrit name is a “gift” of pseudo-culture. In current times pseudo-culture permeates nearly every aspect of life, so sometimes it is hard to recognize it.

JUST A LITTLE COURAGE IS NEEDED

Also, 40-50 years ago in various countries, meditation or yoga asanas were looked upon as something very negative, like witchcraft. The general people were scared to practice – or at the very least embarrassed. But with the efforts of courageous people it became common and now yoga is well respected – indeed it is the latest rage; everyone is doing it. And all capitalist companies show people doing meditation in their advertisements. Similarly if we start using ‘Shrii’ before the name, then without any delay, it will become common and well-respected.

Just like we are follow many Sanskrit terms in our general talking style, and we are using those as we have become habituated to them. Such as the term jagrti, we do not call it a temple, mosque or church. Likewise we use the term Dharmacakra; we do not call it prayer or namaj or yajina.

And, we do not call AM a religion, rather we use the word dharma. Also we use ‘namaskar’ and not “Hi” or “hello” or namaste or Salaam Vale Kum. Or Ram Ram. Rather we use namaskar as our salutation–with folded hands not shaking hands.

All these dharmic approaches have been incorporated into our Ananda Marga way of life.

COWARDS FALL PREY TO PSEUDO-CULTURE

Similarly it is our duty as Ananda Margiis to not fall prey to pseudo-culture. The whole society is waiting for our guideline. Baba has given everything. Our duty is to first practice in our life, and then help to guide others and bring them in the proper path. Due to a lack of proper guidelines and due to faulty theories the whole society is moving in a confused state, misguided direction. We should not allow this to continue– nor introduce any negative ways.

Likewise, respect and reverence to Guru is not very common in present crude society. That’s why certain cowardly and opportunistic intellectuals don’t like to give reverence to Guru in their writing. They fail to preface Baba’s name with Shrii etc. Just in casual way, they refer to Baba as “P.R. Sarkar”. That is highly disrespectful.

HOW PSEUDO-CULTURE GETS SPREAD; HOW DOGMAS TAKE ROOT:

RICH PEOPLE IMPOSE THEIR DEGRADED STYLES OF ART AND DANCE ON OTHER SOCIETIES

In His ‘Exploitation and Pseudo-Culture’ chapter of Neo-Humanism, Baba explains that via the medium of theatre & cinema, rich people impose their low and degraded styles of art and dance on other societies. And because of their inferiority complex, innocent people start copying that and fall into pseudo-culture. Unfortunately they adopt it quickly. And even worse is that they feel honored. It is such a pity that they leave their beautiful customs and culture and adopt pseudo-culture and feel glorified by that. This problem is rampant these days.

This very stage is very detrimental. Those whose backbone is broken by the heavy weight of pseudo-culture are a burden and cannot do anything.

Baba says, “If their cultural backbone is broken, then all their struggles will end in nothing–like offering clarified butter to a sacrificial fire which has been reduced to ashes. If one’s spine is shattered, it is impossible to hold one’s head erect. Can those whose necks and backs are crushed under the weight of pseudo-culture, be expected to hold their heads high in any sphere of life?” (2)

Unfortunately some in our Ananda Marga have fallen into this position.

Here we should remember that Baba has taught us that in our Ananda Marga culture we are to use ‘Shrii’ before the name. This is the given system.

Unfortunately, some of are obsessed with various dogma and with that psychic disease they don’t want to leave that tradition which is going on in outdated local social ethics. Because of this, in a growing number of countries, usually a few people don’t understand the value of the term “Shrii” writing before the name.

WE ARE THEN RESPONSIBLE FOR REFERRING TO BABA IN THE PROPER WAY

The divine and auspicious advent of Taraka Brahma onto the planet is one holy and magnificent event. In the entire world population, only Ananda Margiis are aware about His great arrival. As His disciples, we are then responsible for referring to Baba in the proper way – using the proper name according to our Ananda Marga system. And by this approach the entire globe will learn correctly what to do.

When anybody opens the book of our Prout series, they see Baba’s photo. If one looks carefully at that photo, they will notice Baba’s signature is witten in Bengali. In His own writing, it is clearly written: “Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar”. This is Baba’s pristine example. By this way, anyone can understand that Baba is the writer, and His full name is Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar. Not just ‘P.R. Sarkar’.

Unfortunately, some cowards intellectuals do not ahere to Baba’s system.

SHRII IS THE FOURTH ATTRIBUTION OF THE LORD

As we know our Baba – Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji – is not only Bhagawan, but furthermore He is Taraka Brahma.

While explaining the term Bhagawan, Baba has told that the Personality who has bhaga is called Bhagawan. And the term Bhaga means the collection of six attributes. These attributes are: (1) Aeshvara, (2) Viryam, (3) Yasa, (4) Shrii, (5) Jinanam, and (6) Vairagya. In ‘Jaeva Dharma and Bhagavata Dharma’ reveals this fact.

Baba says, “The meaning of the word Bhaga is ‘Aeshvarayamca samagram viiryamca yashasah shriyah Jinana-vaergyamca sanaam bhagaiti smrta’. Bhaga is the collection of six attributes.” (3)

We can see then that bhaga is just the collection of six attributes or qualities. And one of the qualities is ‘Shrii’. Indeed, ‘Shrii’ is the 4th attribution of the Lord. And the meaning of Shrii is “attraction” or “charm”.

That is why we have always seen that Baba uses the term ‘Shrii’ before His name. Two times. While writing His name He writes Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji, not just Anandamurtiji or Shrii Anandamurtiji. He prefers Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. Or double ‘Shrii’ before His name.

And it is our duty as disciples to follow His guideline – to follow Baba’s example.

Thus we must emulate His given system and use the preface Baba’s names with ‘Shrii”: Such as Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji or Shrii PR Sarkar, whichever is needed.

BLUNDER DOES A LOT OF DAMAGE

MUST USE “SHRII” OR “SHRII SHRII”

The mention of Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar without putting “Shrii” in front is most disrespect to our Guru Baba, who is Taraka Brahma. And the mention of Anandamurti without using the preface “Shrii Shrii” is equally disrespectful, and an equal blunder.

Some persons may be imagining this is just a “small thing”. For those who may be thinking in this misguided fashion, please consider these following examples:

Suppose, for instance, if one is walking in a dry, dirty area, and gets covered with dust. That may not be bothersome to the person. But if one tiny grain of dust gets in the eye. Then it will be a big problem. So something small may create chaos. Depending upon how critical it is.

Suppose someone puts their shoes on their head instead of on their feet. It may seem like a small mistake, but it will create a big problem.

Suppose a person tries to walk upside down, with their head on the ground. This may seem like a simple thing, but it will create huge difficulties.

Or suppose if someone cuts off their nose. The nose may be something small, but cutting off the nose will derange their entire face.

So by these above examples it becomes clear that “small things” can create huge errors and much harm. And as such one can hardly call those things as small, inconsequential errors. Rather they become serious problems which need to be addressed and corrected.

Now let’s apply this to Baba’s appellation.

Two of the seven ‘Secrets of Success’ are:

(1) Shraddha’ (deep reverence for the Goal (Ista); and
(2) Guru Puja, (respectful offering and surrender to the Guru).

So these are two of the Secrets of Success which Baba Himself highlights in so many discourses. So see then how essential it is to have deep reverence for the Guru. And to express that properly. And in Ananda Marga that is our way – to give maximum regard to BABA, Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji, the Granter of salvation.

So consider that something supposedly small like putting “Shrii” before Baba’s name, it has tremendous importance. And not doing so creates huge negativity by its being most extremely disrespectful to that divine Entity.

TRUE FOLLOWERS ALWAYS SHOW RESPECT

BUT NEGATIVE HABIT OF OUR SOME COWARD AND OPPORTUNISTIC INTELLECTUAL “WRITERS” IS OPPOSITE

In all spheres of life people give maximum reverence and high regard to those whom they revere.

For example when the pope or Dalai Lama are introduced then words like “his high holiness”, “revered one”, and “divine being” are used. Their followers will always do like this.

The devotees of Ramakrsna, Yogananda and Vivekananda always use Swamiji or Thakur and then they close with Paramahansa. These titles show great respect and reverence.

Likewise the laukik name of Nima’i is not so impressive sounding that is why followers refer to their saint as Caetanya Mahaprabhu.

Even when worldly leaders are introduced, then always proper due reference is given. They are known as “Mr President”, or “Mrs Prime Minister”, or whatever their respected title may be.

Hence it is quite common to publicly revere leaders – whether they be a leader of a church, state, or mission.

By this way, the rest of the world knows that that person is a respected one. People may or may not be catholic, but because those catholics revere the pope up to the sky, then everyone on this earth feels that the pope is someone of great stature and import. Same is the case with the Dalai Lama, Ramakrsna, and the leaders of various countries.

In contrast, if their own followers do not give them reverence on the public stage, then the rest of the world will automatically think that that so-called leader is not so great – rather he is just a second rate individual, or worse than that.

Hence, it is extremely important for one to give great reverence to those whom they revere.

Unfortunately some of our most “prolific” writers in AM nowadays have fallen into the extremely negative habit of just writing ‘PR Sarkar’– and in some cases they just write ‘Sarkar’. By quickly surveying the books, articles, and emails of “writers” then we can see this unfortunate form of expression.

Not only that, such WT writers and publishers in Ananda Marga who write about Baba refer to themselves as Ac Abc-Ananda Avt, yet when publice refer to Baba they write “PR Sarkar” or just “Sarkar”. Such Wts are shameless. They are keen to honour themselves and quick to dishonour Baba.

And overall this has a negative effect across the entire society.

Because then non-margii writers adopt this same ungainly approach and they just write ‘PR Sarkar’. Whereas if such mundane writers were aware that our “top” writers and margiis always respectfully refer to Revered Baba as ‘Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar’ or ‘Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji’ then they would get a good teaching and follow our example.

It is just like how mundane or non-British reporters always refer to Queen Elizabeth using the title “Queen”, and they always refer to Prince Charles using the reference of ‘Prince’. Never do they just write “Elizabeth” or “Liz”, or “Charles” or “Charlie”. And if they did then the public would object. Because everyone has become taught and trained that “Queen Elizabeth” and ‘Prince Charles’ are the proper ways.

Likewise, Catholics address their leader as His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. The Pope’s worldly name is Joseph Alois Ratzinger, but no Catholic would ever consider calling the Pope, “Joey”. That would be a terrible display of disrespect. No Catholic could ever imagine doing that. Rather, they refer to him as His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. And by this way they teach others to do the same. Lay people, heads of state, newspaper reporters, indeed everyone refers to the Pope in a most respectful way. All because that is the tone and address used by the Pope’s chief followers, i.e. catholics.

Although we are not trying to emulate the British monarchy nor the Catholic Church etc, but this particular point is meaningful. The idea being that if we ourselves are perfectly consistent in always giving proper reference to Baba as ‘Shrii PR Sarkar’ or ‘Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji’ then people of the general society will also follow suit. It will become natural for them. And that will be the proper way to introduce non-sadhakas to Baba as well as the proper way for Ananda Margiis to refer to the social and spiritual names– Shrii PR Sarkar & Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji, respectively– of our Revered Guru.

IT COULD BE ANYBODY

One related key point is that PR Sarkar could refer to Pramod Rai Sarkar, Paramatma Ram Sakar, Prabhu Rsi Sarkar or countless other names. So in addition to using Shrii, we should always employ the full form of Baba’s name, i.e. Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar.

Along these lines there is one famous story.

When the police came to arrest Baba, they arrived with an arrest warrant that said “PR Sarkar”. Baba refused to recognise the warrant as being legitmate. He said, “That is not my name; that warrant could be for so many other people whose initials are PR.” On this point, the police accepted defeat so they left without Baba and came back with a new warrant that stated Baba’s complete name.

So we should always employ His full name – Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar – when referencing Him in any way.

DON’T DISPLEASE BABA

Casual and crude way of referring to Sadguru is not only objectionable but absolutely abominable. Nobody should do such sin. In the scripture it is said, “Shive rusto…” The meaning is that if Guru is displeased, then nobody can save that person. Reverence and pleasing Guru is very important. To do this, Baba taught us many things including how to address Parama Purusa, Mahasambhuti, Taraka Brahma.

To teach us Baba has given very clear example while writing the books about Shiva and Krsna. The names of these two books themselves are very honorable and respectful.

For example Lord Shiva’s book is “Namah Shivaya Shantaya”. And the meaning is, “Salutations to Lord Shiva who is the Ever-Tranquil Divine Entity.” And similar way about Lord Krsna Baba has titled the book as “Namami Krsna Sundaram”. That is, “Salutations to Lord Krsna Who is the Ever Beautiful and Charming Divine Entity”.

By this way Baba has given one glorious example. And the motive was only to teach us, how we should address Guru. He does not address Lord Shiva and Lord Krsna in a casual manner.

So when we refer to Baba it should be done in the most reverential and respectful terms.

MUST FOLLOW BABA’S SYSTEM

It is Baba’s system that He prefers that His name should prefixed with Shrii. That’s why He signs in this way. As His disciples we should address Him in the way in which He prefers most.

BABA’S RELATED TEACHINGS

“Shrii: That special quality which attracts everyone in one direction, the “one” of that attractive power, is said to have shrii. It is also called shriipati (tirupati). In other words, shrii means “the power of attraction” or “charm” or “fascination”.” (4)

“Shrii: Sha is the acoustic root of rajoguńa [the mutative principle] and the ra of energy. When people plunge headlong into the field of action with all the rajas [mutative force] at their disposal, and backed by this stored-up energy take to karma yoga, that is, when they take up the challenge with all the inherent force and vigour of their personality, we say that sha and ra are well-blended in them. So sha + ra = shra. The word is in the feminine gender, so it becomes shrii when suffixed by uniiś. Shrii means the power of attraction – a unique combination of mutative lustre and inner vitality. All human beings covet this rare quality, shrii, so even those who are devoid of shrii like to prefix their names with shrii.” (5)

“Next is ra, which is the acoustic root of energy. We have spoken earlier about energy. In Sanskrit, indra means energy – for example, light, sound, electricity. Where sha, that is, the rajoguńii vrtti [propensity], and ra, that is, energy, are both present, success is assured. Many may have a mind to do something, but do not have the requisite capability to do so. The desire is there, but no effective skill. Obviously, ra is absent here. Where both sha and ra are present we get shra, and adding the feminine uniiśa gives shrii.” (6)

“You must have seen objects that instantly draw your attention. That means the particular object has an attractive force within it. There are some people who are not particularly learned or intelligent; nor are they adept at public speaking; but they are very good conversationalists. People gather round them eagerly to enjoy their pleasantries. That too is a kind of shrii. There are people who are not conversant with the intricacies of music, but they sing so melodiously that others rush to listen to them. That is the person’s musical shrii. Hence that singer may be honoured with the title giitáshrii. One who possesses this quality of shrii, this charm, this fascinating faculty, is said to have the fourth quality of bhaga.” (7)

“One of the names of Parama Puruśa is Shriinivása. Here the Saḿskrta word shrii means “the most charming personality.” The word shrii is derived from sha + ra + uniiś. Sha is the acoustic root of the mutative principle and ra is the acoustic root of energy. With the help of these two things, sha plus ra, human beings are moving, dancing, speaking and doing so many things. Obviously they need sha and ra very much. The supreme abode of this shrii is Parama Puruśa: hence He is affectionately called Shriinivása. To Him only all the living beings will return, either today or tomorrow. That is the supreme abode of bliss, the supreme culminating point – ánandadháma…parágati.” (8)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Liila

REFERENCES
1. Subhasita Samgraha- 3, p.86
2. NH-LOI
3. SS part 21
4. Shabda Cayanika – 2, Disc: 8
5. Namámi Krśńasundaram, Disc: 24, Shabda Cayanika – 2, Disc: 8
6. Discourses on Krsna & the Giita, The Significance of the Word “Bhagaván”, Shabda Cayanika – 2, Disc: 8
7. Discourses on Krsna & the Giita, The Significance of the Word “Bhagaván”
8. Subhasita Samgraha – 12, To Whom Do You Belong? Where Do You Come From?

******************************************
Everyone Is Interdependent

Only Fools Think Nobody Should Bother About Me

“You will hear many a vain and assuming person say, “I don’t need anyone’s help, I’m doing very well by myself. I don’t want to concern myself with anyone else’s affairs and I don’t expect anyone else to bother about mine.” Nothing could be more foolish than this statement. Medicine and nursing are necessary to cure diseases; the neighbours’ help is needed to cremate a dead body; and for the regular supply of food and cloth the cooperation of farmers and spinners is essential. Remember, no created being in this universe is independent. No one can exist alone, everyone has a supra-cosmic relationship with the whole, at times prominent, at times indistinguishable. In this scheme of mutual relationships, even the slightest mistake or discord will raise a furious furore in the universe. In this mighty creation, the brilliantly luminous sun and the tiny ant have the same existential value, having combined together to make the universal family. Similarly, in human society, the importance of a powerful and eminent person is no less than that of a disabled and dying patient. None can be ignored. The least injustice done to anyone will cause the break down of the entire social framework.”
(A Few Problems Solved Part 6, The Spirit of Society)
******************************************

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Mister or Shrii

To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Candra Deva
Subject: Mister or Shrii
Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2012 22:49:28 -0400

Baba

“Apa’r ananta tumi ki va’ ja’ni a’mi, toma’r krpa’y mor din cale ja’y…” PS# 2147

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, O’ Baba, You are endless and infinite, but how can I understand this fact when I myself am not merged in that — when I myself am not infinite and vast. O’ Lord, even then my days are passing only by Your
grace.

Baba, by taking Your name and singing Your song, I am moving along on Your divine path according to Your desire. My existence moves on in Your flow.

Baba, I love You – by singing Your name, I laugh and cry, by Your grace. Baba, for Your work, I come onto this earth again and again. The way You want my life to proceed, I will go on making it like that, according to Your desire.

The discussion of scripture, philosophy, and science do not reach up to You. By this way one cannot get any clue about You, indeed not any trace. Always these approaches fall far short of the mark, far below Your divine stature.

Baba, according to Your desire everything happens. Everything happens due to Your karuna’, due to Your immense compassion. O’ Parama Purusa, O’ Baba, You are infinite, beginningless, and endless. And by singing Your name and chanting Your song, my whole life is passing according to Your direction…

== MISTER OR SHRII ==

Namaskar,
Here is one of Baba’s key guidelines that we should apply in our day to day life.

Baba says, “The Samskrta word Shrii means ‘the most charming personality’. The word ‘shrii’ is derived from sha + ra + uniis. ‘Sha’ is the acoustic root of the mutative principle, and ‘ra’ is the acoustic root of energy. With the help of these two things, ‘sha’ plus ‘ra’, human beings are moving, dancing, speaking, and doing so many things. Obviously they need ‘sha’ and ‘ra’ very much. The Supreme abode of ‘shrii’ is Parama Purus’a.” (Subhasita Samgraha – 12, p.4)

In this above teaching, Baba is describing the meaning of ‘Shrii’ so that we can understand why we call Him ‘Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji’– not ‘Mr. Anandamurtiji’. Naturally in our life we should then address Him in the way which He likes to be called.

However, because of their dogmatic beliefs, some jinanis prefer the term ‘Mister Sarkar’ or even just plain ‘Sarkar’ instead of ‘Shrii’. In some of their publications they have written like that. In that case we should gently try to make them aware about their dogma. And then take a firmer stance as needed.

The central idea is that ‘Shrii’ is a very meaningful term and we should most certainly use this when addressing our Beloved Guru – Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji.

In addition, everyone should use the term ‘Shrii’ (once) before their own name as well. This is also Baba’s direct teaching.

Namaskar,
Candra

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Highly Refined Language

From: Jagadnath Deva
Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2012 21:44:12
To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: Highly Refined Language

Baba

“Toma’ri katha’ bheve ma’rmika anubhave…” (P.S. 3006)

Purport:

O’ Baba, by thinking of You with all the feelings of my heart, my ba’ndha-bha’unga’ mana [1] is ensconced in bliss and floats towards infinity. O’ Lord of the divine and mortal worlds, the Soul of the soulless, even a wee-bit of Your great love is enough to fill my heart with spiritual bliss and give me goose bumps, horripilation, throughout my being. Baba, is it You who brings that devotional surge within me.

Baba, O’ Divine Entity, thinking about You, my mind is ensconced in bliss.

Baba, You are incomparable in rhythm and most pleasant in aroma. You have no comparison. In all vibrations, in the quintessence, deep down, You are the Dearest One to all; You are the nucleus of all the vibrations. In the garland You are the flower. In the necklace You are the jewel. In everything You are the best. Remaining in viitara’ga [2], You smile with the beauty of divine love like flowers.

Baba, O’ Divine Entity, thinking about You, my mind is ensconced in bliss.

Baba, in the severe heat, You are those first, cool showers that bring relief and respite. In the space between the monsoon clouds, You are the effulgent pole star. In the darkness, You are the beauty of the moon’s enchantment. Under the hot sun, You are cool shade beneath the trees. In each and every circumstance, You are the Saviour. Baba, even staying afar, You stay in my mind’s divine haven.

Baba, O’ Divine Entity, thinking about You, my mind is ensconced in bliss.

O’ Parama Purusa, keep me eternally at Your lotus feet…

NOTES FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA #3006:

[1] Ba’ndha-bha’unga’ mana: This is when the mind is overwhelmed with joy. Such as when one is extremely happy and bursts into tears or when one jumps for joy or exclaims or dances. In actuality though it is more than the joy experienced in worldly circumstances. It is that inexpressible bliss from the spiritual flow. It happens in the spiritual realm when one’s mind is totally ensconced in His bliss and one starts crying uncontrollably. This is a state wherein one completely loses their composure.

[2] Viitara’ga: This is the state of being beyond any worldly attachment or attraction – i.e. perfect equanimity in all circumstances. One of the qualities of Parama Purus’a is vaera’gya. Baba has demonstrated this on countless occasions. Even when all kinds of serious and critical problems came in the organisation, then He remained totally unaffected, keeping perfect composure. For social reasons He may have showed sympathy or concern, but internally He was totally unaffected. Those bhaktas close to Baba understand this well.

For instance, before going to jail & whenever there was serious any catastrophe going on in organisational life, Baba had the divine ability to give discourses of eternal value. That can only happen when one’s mind is in viitaraga.If anyone reads that discourse they will not get any hint about the extreme upheaval going on in the organisation. Such composure ise not possible by human beings. Being human means being affected by the bondaage of maya.

Whereas in viitraga the mind remains 100% unassailed by any negativity, and is just the embodiment of universal welfare. Viitara’ga does not mean that the Entity in viitara’ga is unpetrubed by the suffering and tears of human beings. Everyone knows that Parama Purusa loves and cares so much.

== HIGHLY REFINED LANGUAGE ==

Namaskar,

Baba says, “Pra’krta was the language of the common people. The scholars of those days used to neglect this language and compose their literature in Sanskrit. For this reason this highly refined language was called “Sanskrit” which implies that it was not the people’s language; it was written by refining the people’s language…When Krs’n’a would speak with Duryodhana he would use Sanskrit but when he spoke with the Pandavas he would speak in Shaorasenii Pra’krta because he had a close relationship with the five Pandavas.” (Varna Vijiana, p.65)

In our Ananda Marga society, the Sanskrit language is part and parcel of our daily existence. Baba has infused the system where every initiated margii receives a Sanskrit name, most of the chants are in Sanskrit, many of His discourses are interwoven with Sanskrit shlokas, and the names of the various wings of our organisation are mostly in Sanskrit etc. In that way Sanskrit is part of the very pulsation of life in AM. Given this, we should understand why Baba has selected Sanskrit to have such a special place in our Marga. As Baba tells in the above quote the language is called Sankrit because it is highly refined. That is the meaning behind the name. And we can rationally conclude that Baba given this highly refined language a sacred spot in our Marga because it nicely reflects the subtle aspects of human existence and life divine.

The term ‘Shaorsen’ refers to an area outside Delhi near Mathura and the language from that area is known as ‘Shaorasenii’. So the linguistic relationship between Sharosen and Shaorasenii is the same as that between Italy and Italian, Japan and Japanese, Russia and Russian, Bengal and Bengali, Bhojpur and Bhojpuri, Spain and Spanish. The first term refers to the place and that latter term refers to the language.

Namaskar,
Jagadnath Deva

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It Does not Express

Date: 12 Apr 2012 22:59:31 -0000
From: “Shivadayal Singhal” futures…
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: It Does not Express

Baba

== IT DOES NOT EXPRESS THE REAL MEANING ==

Namaskar,

Baba says, “The word ‘mantra’ in Samskrta is very meaningful, and it has no synonymous term in any other language…the word ‘mantra’ cannot be properly represented by the word ‘incantation’. But for want of a proper word in English, we find no alternative but to use the word ‘incantation’.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 5 p. 96, 100)

By reading the above quote it is clear that the English language is very weak in that it has little capacity to express spiritual ideas.

So in order to know more deeply about spirituality etc, then one has to become familiar with the meaning of various Sanskrit words and phrases. Otherwise one will have no option but to depend upon the translator– but that will not work since the real essence of those Sanskrit words cannot be translated into other languages like English.

For example: dharma, mantra, karma, upavasa etc. These words cannot be translated into English. And here is another example where the English version fails to carry the spirit of the Sanskrit meaning. The term ‘half-bath’ does not at all reflect the meaning of the original Sanskrit term: ‘Vyapak Shaoca’. But in the English books in place of vyapak shaoca the English term half-bath has been used. When really Vyapak means ‘detailed’ and to explain shaoca Baba has given a 5 page discourse about this in ‘A Guide to Human Conduct’.

But when they put 16 points into English they translated ‘vyapak shaoca’ as ‘half-bath’. When in fact the term half-bath utterly fails to carry the real essence and special import of vyapak shaoca. Because the etymological meaning of vyapak shaoca is ‘in-depth’ and ‘all-round’ cleaning.

Unfortunately this type of mistranslation is not an isolated case because there are innumerable Sanskrit words which have got wrongly translated or could not be expressed in a proper way in languages like English. Because of this each and every good margii is trying to learn more and more Sanskrit.

Namaskar,
Shivadayal Deva

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Baba Story: Wrong Pronunciation

Date: 15 Mar 2012 20:41:57 -0000
From: “Gursharan Deva”
To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: Baba Story: Wrong Pronunciation

Baba

== DMC STORIES FROM MY DIARY ==

Namaskar,
I can never forget the time when, by Baba’s grace, I attended DMC at Kullu on 1 November 1979. Actually in my life, I was blessed with the opportunity to attend many DMCs, and all were special in their own way, due to His divine presence. In particular at Kullu, I remember the strong spiritual vibration. All were enchanted by His sweet charm.

NAME OF THE DMC DISCOURSE AT KULLU

From my diary, I am reminded how at that DMC Baba delivered the discourse: Moks’a Kya’ Hae, or What is Moks’a.

BABA CORRECTED GURU PUJA PRONUNCIATION AT KULLU DMC

Also on that occasion, I noted in my diary how Baba graciously stopped the chanting of Guru Puja and corrected the pronunciation. Because as we all know, for Guru Puja to be effective, one must maintain purity of mind, proper ideation (bhava), and recite the chant three times with the correct pronunciation. Without those qualities, Guru Puja will not work. It is Baba’s grace that He has shown us the proper pronunciation so we may do our puja in the right manner.

AUDIO FILE ON THE AM-GLOBAL BLOG

I have the audio file of that very DMC program from when one Dada shared it with me, and I have uploaded it to the blog for all to hear.

http://www.am-global-01.blogspot.com/

MY DIARY ENTRY FROM KULLU DMC (INTRO)

What follows below is my diary entry from that magnificent occasion of Kullu DMC where Baba lovingly showered His grace on all, irrespective of one’s social stature or birth. Because at DMC, Baba calls His bhaktas– all kinds of people, from all kinds of backgrounds, from all corners of the earth– and He equally showers His love on everyone, without any differentiation. That is the special quality of DMC.

(Note: It will be too long if I include my entire entry, so here I am appending the later part of the DMC experience which includes Baba’s blessing, Guru Puja, and Jai Slogan etc. In addition, in parentheses (00:00) I have added the timings which relate to the sound file on the blog.)

MY DIARY ENTRY FROM KULLU DMC (PART 1)

…Baba is beautifully concluding His discourse– ‘What is Salvation’– in Hindi. (00:57, timing on the sound file)

Sadguru Baba is seated on the dais, His eyes closed and His palms together, as He recites, Samgacchadhvam…

(At this point, they have removed the microphones from in front of Baba so all will be able to witness and experience the upcoming varabhaya mudra. For this reason it is difficult to hear Baba recite Samgaddhadhvam. But if one listens carefully the chant can be heard.)

The anticipation and spiritual energy mounts as Baba recites, ‘Omn Shanti, omn shanti, omn shanti’. (01:28, timing on the sound file)

All eyes are minds are pin-pointed towards Baba– everything is still– and in His loving manner Baba slowly begins to separate His hands, bringing His right hand slightly up, palm facing the margiis, while His left hand is placed by His left thigh, palm facing upward.

Baba is graciously giving varabhaya mudra– His divine blessing!! (01:34, timing on the sound file)

There is a strong upsurge of devotional feeling and spiritual flow. Sadhakas are crying out, ‘Baba!, Baba!, Baba!…bhaktas are crying in bliss…His divine love is radiating everywhere– in all directions… (01:34 – 01:52, timing on the sound file)

(According to His causeless grace, at His various DMC’s, Baba will give His blessing for around 10 seconds, per His wish. The longer the varabhaya mudra is held, more and more sadhakas will become unconscious, inundated in divine bliss, and go into samadhi.)

MY DIARY ENTRY FROM KULLU DMC (PART 2)

(It is always arranged that the BP or local in-charge should be close by PA Dada so that as soon as Baba concludes His mudra, then the BP can ask PA for permission to ask Baba to do Guru Puja. So first the BP goes to PA Ramanandaji, and then the BP respectfully approaches Baba for permission. That is the system. And it all happens in a matter of seconds.)

The Bhukti Pradhan now asks PA Ramananda Dada and PA Dadaji gives the BP access to Baba. The BP requests Baba about Guru Puja and Baba graciously grants permission. (1:52)

Before the start of Guru Puja, we can hear reminders how the terms “Gurave” and “Parama'” should be pronounced properly. (2:00)

(In particular Gurave should not be spoken as Guruve, as that (Gurave) is the proper Sanskrit grammar. Those who do not read the text properly pronounce it in the wrong manner, as Guruve.)

Secondly Parama should be pronounced with a natural “a” at the end. Once again, those not aware about Sanskrit merely say Param. But that is not correct. In essence there are three ways that parama is pronounced:
(a) Param: This is when the -ma is given half-pronunciation. This is not the proper way.
(b) Parama: This is when the -ma is given full-pronunciation wherein the -ma sounds like the “ma” in the work market. This is the proper pronunciation.
(c) Parama’: This is when the -ma is given an overly long pronunciation with the mouth open wide such as the “a” sound in the word father. This also is not the proper way.

Finally, the best way to learn how to pronounce the word parama is by listening to the audio file on the blog.

In the early days of AM it was also like that. That is why the CC-1 1975 English Edition also states, “Param” in the Guru Vandana’ section. Around 1978 or so, Baba clarified to one and all that it should be Parama. And that is reflected in the later books as well as in ZY Find or the Electronic Edition of Baba’s books. In certain instances it was written as paramah, but that is not correct. It should be parama.

MY DIARY ENTRY FROM KULLU DMC (PART 3)

One Dadaji begins leading Guru Puja. (2:11)

When Dada recites the last line of the first stanza, Tasmae Shrii Gurave namah, the Dada mispronounces Gurave as Guruve, and one can hear Baba making corrections in pronunciation to PA Dada. (2:43 – 2:52)

But Guru Puja continues.

When Dada recites the last line of the second stanza of Guru Puja, again he commits the same mistake by saying, Guruve. Then in dramatic fashion, Baba again clarifies to PA Dada that ‘Gurave’ is the proper pronunciation, not Guruve. Baba repeats the corrections again and again, emphatically. (3:18 – 3:23)

Then, you can hear PA Dada shout, ‘Stop it!’.

At this point Guru Puja is halted. The whole DMC Pandal is totally silent.

Then the Dada re-starts Guru Puja from the very beginning. (3:30)

From then on, the three rounds of Guru Puja proceeds without incident, as the Dada correctly says “Gurave” and “Parama”. And it all goes smoothly.

After three blissful rounds of Guru Puja, we collectively chant, “Tava Dravyam…” (9:53)

Then everyone does sastaunga pranam.

MY DIARY ENTRY FROM KULLU DMC (PART 4)

When Guru Puja (Akhanda Mandala…) and the Pranama Mantra (Tava Dravyam…) have concluded, then Baba showers another blessing upon us all. (10:29)

Sarve’tra sukhinah bhavantu sarve santu nira’maya’h;
Sarve bhadra’n’i pashyantu na kashcid duhkhama’pnuya’t.

Let everybody be happy (11:10)
Let everybody be free from all ailments
Let everybody see the bright side of everything
Let nobody be forced to undergo any suffering or exploitation

Parama Pita Baba Ki– Jai!! Parama Pita Baba Ki– Jai!! Parama Pita Baba
Ki– Jai!! (11:30)

PRONUNCIATION IS KEY FOR ALL CHANTS

We should be vigilant in the pronunciation of all our chants: Samgacchadhvam, nityam shuddham, and of course Guru puja – as all as any other chants used in our AM way of life. Then one can derive the full benefit from those chants. That will be very meaningful.

CLOSING

So this was the beautiful scene that we all experienced that day at Kullu DMC. And still that divine vibration of Baba is alive in everyone’s mind and heart. All we need to do is search Him within and He is there showering His blessing.

Baba says, “Now by dint of sadhana,’ one is to arouse and exalt that sleeping divinity. That Svayambhu’liunga becomes one with Shambhu’liunga. But for this one requires divine help. And I know one is sure to get divine help. And I know further that one is getting divine help. And I know still further that in future, for infinite time and infinite space, one will be getting this divine favour. And you are all sa’dhakas. You will certainly attain that supreme stance and enjoy that divine blessedness. You are sure to enjoy it, my sons and my daughters.” (AV-23)

Namaskar,
Gurusharan

Note 1: VARBHAYA MUDRA AND JANUSPARSHA MUDRA

Generally at DMC, Baba would graciously shower His varabhaya mudra upon all. On some select occasions, Baba would lovingly present His janusparsha mudra, wherein both hands are on His knees, palms facing upwards. Although less common, this is another one of Baba’s divine blessings.

Note 2: ABOUT SAMADHI

When a sadhaka becomes inundated in His spiritual bliss, then that sadhaka may undergo all kinds of blissful sensations.

Baba says, “When the mental flow of a spiritual aspirant moves along the introversial phase of Macrocosmic meditation, one’s animative force, having the potentiality of divinity itself, rises above all tendencies – all sam’ska’ras – and proceeds towards Eternal bliss. In this state the mind is vibrated with Cosmic feeling. The unexpressed divine qualities of the higher glands find expression and the resonance of the mind vibrates the nervous system. This gives rise to pious expressions in the physical body. In the case of those people whose occult feelings are not physically expressed due to causes associated with the nerves, the mental vibrations cause certain radical changes, in the various glands within the body. These occult feelings are basically of eight types: stambha (astounding), kampa (trembling), sveda (sweating), svarabheda (hoarseness of voice), ashru (tears), roma’inca (horripilation), vaevarn’a (change of colour) and pralaya (fainting fit). There are other feelings associated with these major feelings. For examples, nrtya (dancing), giita (singing), vilun’t’hana (rolling), kroshana (weeping), hum’ka’ra (roaring), la’la’sra’va (salivating), jrmbhan’a (yawning), loka’peks’a’ tya’ga (indifference), at’a’ha’sya (bursting into laughter), ghu’rn’ana (whirling), hikka’ (hiccoughing), tanumot’ana (relaxation of the physical body) and diirghashva’sa (deep breathing).” (Guide to Human Conduct)

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Nu’tan diner nu’tan su’ryat pu’rva a’ka’she ut’heche a’cho…” (P.S. 1308)

Purport:

Baba, by Your grace, today the new sun of the new dawn is rising up in the sky. With the feeling of fear and shyness, the Cimmerian darkness of the night has disappeared. O’ human being, throw away the staticity and dogma of the past, and embrace the effulgence of the new dawn. The divine Entity with the divine effulgence has come to your doorstep – with new form and color, showering love on all. O’ human being, the creatures of darkness have disappeared. The Parama Purusa who is the nucleus of this universe, that very Entity is the greatest One. Ideating on Him go on doing His service…

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Name of Your Baby

Date: Sat, 19 Nov 2011 21:33:47
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: “Pavitra Deva” pwKlauss@springnet…
Subject: Name of Your Baby

Baba

== NAME OF YOUR BABY ==

Namaskar,
When Baba held DMC in our Berlin Sector, then Baba Himself was emphasizing the importance of Sanskrit names. Time and again He beautifully explained the meaning of various names and on multiple occasions Baba also corrected the then PA Dada Ramanandaji’s pronunciation of Sanskrit names, or even changed the name itself to one having a spiritual meaning.

Surrounding this, one beautiful scene comes to mind.

STORY HOW BABA BLESSES AND CORRECTS HER SANSKRIT NAME

During one DMC we held our usual kaoshikii and tandava contests & when Dada Ramanandaji called out the names of those involved then he announced the name of one sister named Ama’vati.

Immediately Baba pointed out that this name meant ‘darkness’ or ‘new moon’. Then and there, in front of one and all, Baba graciously told that her name should be Jyotismati, meaning ‘divine effulgence’. In that special way our sister took on this new name – one with a truly spiritual meaning.

Certainly this was Baba’s blessing upon that sister and the society. The overall idea is that Baba gives great emphasis on the proper use of Sanskrit names, both with respect to pronunciation and meaning.

NAMES ARE NOT JUST WORDS BUT SPIRITUAL REMINDERS

A name then is not just a word per se. It is an important reminder to both the named and the person addressing that individual that we live in a God-centered universe. This helps spiritualise one’s daily life experience and reminds us of our Goal.

Thus not any name will do – names should be given based on this spiritual ideal.

Choosing a name based on the sound of the word, or issuing a name that lacks a devotional meaning is not part of our AM system. Yet, on occasion – or even more frequently – this has been known to happen.

When names are such an essential element of our life as sadhakas, we should take the opportunity to carefully review this important topic.

USING SANSKRIT NAMES: 24 / 7

As we all know, Baba has placed tremendous emphasis on the use of Sanskrit names. We are to use them in all circumstances – cent-per-cent of the time.

Baba says, “At the time of initiation or shortly afterwards, those who do not have a Sanskrit name should be given one by the A’carya.” (CC-I, p.6, 1995 Ed.)

Baba says, “The Sanskrit name should be used in all worldly dealings.” (CC-I p. 7, 1995 Ed.)

That is why in our Marga, we all receive a Sanskrit name as soon as we enter AM and that name should be used pervasively, in all aspects of our life.

Unfortunately quite commonly, outside of India, many use their Sanskrit name only at the time of dharmacakra or only when talking to margiis etc. In their daily or professional life, or even when communicating with their spouse, they may fail to use their Sanskrit name. This is one point for us all to be careful about.

NOT ALL SANSKRIT NAMES ARE SPIRITUAL

At the same time we must be aware that not every Sanskrit name is appropriate, as depicted in the above story of that DMC.

To ensure proper Sanskrit names are given, Baba has specifically detailed names that are of spiritual value. Every acarya has this list / booklet. Those are the names that are to be used in our Ananda Marga at the time of initiation. But it does not always happen like that.

Of course, a large majority of the names in Sanskrit are “good” or “acceptable” for use in AM. By “good” or “acceptable”, we mean that that Sanskrit name directly refers refers to Parama Purusa Himself or one of His divine qualities.

Names like Purusottama (Cosmic Nucleus), Liila (His Divine Play), Kpra Devii (Personification of His Divine Grace) and Divyamurti (Embodiment of God) are ideal in that they remind us of the presence of Parama Purusa.

However, there are many Sanskrit names that fail miserably in this regard.

Names like Brinjal (eggplant) as well as other Sanskrit names meaning rice, chili, and other food items are not our ideal. Yet these Sankrit names are also used in the general society and, on occasion, sneak into our Marga.

Plus various names such as the highly popular surname Singha, meaning lion, are based on the animals. Yet we know that according to the cycle of brahmacakra, human life is the veritable movement away from our baser animalistic vrittis towards our inherent sublime nature, i.e. life divine. So there is no value – rather it is detrimental – to have a
Sanskrit name that refers to an animal. This is also a point of caution.

Finally, there are some Sanskrit names like Khendi and Puddan, which do not mean something that is not very glorified. And there are so many other examples. Then there is the so-called Sanskrit name, Pheku, meaning garbage, That also is obviously not up to the requisite standard.

In addition, in India, they begun giving Sanskrit names that are actually verbs or adjectives, not nouns. One such name is Chalati which is a verb meaning “to go”.

People choose such names because they feel they are unique. That is the new trend.

Whether one is born inside or outside of India, regardless of our local traditions etc, we should ensure that our Sanskrit names are of proper meaning. If you have any question, consult your local acarya.

NICKNAMES

Another critical facet of this discussion is the use of nicknames. All too often family members or close friends give nicknames to their close people. Normally these nickname are given when people are very young, such as when we are 4 or 5 years old, or during student life.

You have all heard them. Names like Pinky, Rinky, Tee-tee, Lulu, Bessy, Beansie etc. Often these names rhyme with our given name or are given for just some silly reason, albeit with good intention.

Actually, when I was in India, I was surprised to see how each family member often has a non-spiritual nickname which all the other family members call them. In that way, they pass the bulk of the life being called a name that has virtually no sense and zero spiritual import.

Wherever we live, we should all be wary and conscious of the use of nicknames – they should not replace our given Sanskrit name.

KUMAR AND DEVA

Finally, there are two other common words to discuss associated with naming. The first is Kumar and the second is Deva.

At present, many in AM seem to attach Kumar to their name. Names like Devesh Kumar, Krsna Kumar, Jayanta Kumar, Chandranath Kumar and the like are quite common.

Yet Kumar (kaoma’ra) refers to that state of life when one is immature.

Baba says, “Childhood, or kaoma’ra.” (SS-21)

In those early years of life, children needlessly break and destroy their toys for no apparent reason and constantly switch from one task to the next, unable to concentrate on anything for any period of time. That is what kaomara means: the life of a child when all kinds of silly or senseless things are done.

Here my intent is not to criticise children – they have their natural dharma. Childhood is part of the growing process. Only the point is that we should not attach that idea or identity with our Sanskrit name by adding the suffix Kumar. That is not our AM system – that is some folk manner from the traditions of old.

If we wish to append any word to our Sanskrit name then that name should be Deva.

Baba says, “Now, the word “deva” comes from the root word “div”. “Div” means “a divine existence”. So “deva” means “a divine existence”.” (AV-3)

Baba says, “The word deva should be suffixed to the name. Every person is at liberty to use his/her own surname, but the more the usage of deva as a title, the better it is.” (CC-1)

Thus we should link our Sanskrit names with Deva, not Kumar.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace when a proper Sanskrit name is given that that brings all kinds of beauty in life: Both to the individual and the society. It reminds us of the eternal presence of Parama Purusa and keeps us ever-focused on the divine nature of human life.

When we seek names for our own children we should keep in mind all of the above. Then their names will serve them well for their entire life.

Those who are devotees can easily understand these points – others may not.

We should be vigilant to ensure that only proper Sanskrit names are used in our units and that we use these Sanskrit names in all circumstances and conditions.

Baba says “If Sam’skrta is used human unity will be encouraged and human beings will move closer together.” (PNS-17)

Baba says, “Today not even the Pacific Ocean between Asia and America is difficult to cross. The people of Asia and America are touching each other’s minds and have learned to accept each other sympathetically as their own. Europe, Africa, Australia, Mercury, Jupiter, the stars, the comets, the constellations – none of them is alien to the other, none is distant from another. Gradually everyone has begun to realise the vibration of the One Integral Mind.” (AFPS-1)

Namaskar,
Pavitra Deva

Note: WHY SHYNESS TO USE SANSKRIT NAMES IN THE WEST

Baba tells in SS part III that those not established on the path of spirituality are shy to practice in front of others.

Baba says, “Those who are reared in the cradle of materialistic ideologies, feel shy or ashamed at first to sit in meditation in the presence of others.” (SS pt 3, p.86)

Those who lack a deeper sense of deep devotion feel shy to reveal themselves as an Ananda Margiis, and most of the time they do not like to tell or use their own Sanskrit name – or the Sanskrit names of others.

But this is only because of their weakness of the mind and lack of proper moral strength. So we should not be affected by this. Rather we should instill within that person the requisite strength, courage, and devotional confidence to move ahead in the right way.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

PS intro: This song is a metaphor. The flower garden and grass lawn represent the life of a struggling devotee. The rains signify the showering of His grace. The darkness represents mental agony and the allotted path refers 16 Points, do’s and don’ts, and conduct rules. This is a mystical song that should not be taken literally or at face-value. Keeping this in mind, please read the following purport.

“A’ma’r bhuvane ka’lo haye a’che, a’lora devata’ a’jao ele na’…” (PS 1232)

Purport:

My world is dark, the Lord of effulgence did not come even today. The flower bud could not blossom, nor could nectar be stored in the flower core.

The rains did not come. Due to lack of water, scorching heat, and fiery winds, the flower garden and the grass lawn could not survive.

My heart is dry. Even my rehearsed song I am unable to sing. I cannot follow the allotted tune; I could not move on the path You provided.

“Without Your grace, nothing can happen”: This essential truth I did not understand.

That is why the showering of Your grace did not happen on me. I was thinking that I can do anything and everything by myself, and solve all the problems alone. My ego became dominant. My heart was dry and life became listless and burdensome. Baba, because of my ego I could not realise Your grace.

O’ Lord of Effulgence, O’ Parama Purusa, please come and make my dark abode filled with effulgence. Baba, please be gracious…

***************************************
One Should Always Remember

Baba says, “However little one’s capacity might be, if one constantly remembers that Parama Purus’a is always with him, that they are in the closest contact with Parama Purus’a, they will be able to do everything. They are not as small as they think themselves to be. And as long as they remember this closest association with Him, they can do much more than ordinary human beings. When this idea becomes permanently established in their minds, they become great. This is why no one should be disappointed or depressed in any circumstances; let everyone constantly perform great deeds, remembering that the flow of their capacity is coming from Parama Purus’a, and thus they can do everything.” (AFPS-3, p.62)
***************************************

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It is Not a Joke

To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: It is Not a Joke
Date: Mon 25 Jul 2011 13:37:49 +0500 (IST)
From: Ram Sahay Deva

Baba

Introduction to Prabhat Samgiita #3007:

In this song, Baba explains how even though some sadhakas are aware
about sadhana, the do’s and don’ts of life, and the disciplined system
of practice, they can’t follow the cult properly because of the various
pashas [bondages] and ripus [internal enemies]. However, by Baba’s
grace, if in the corner of their heart there is devotion, then they will
feel in their heart that the Lord will help them reach the final Goal.

In this song, Baba has come to the sadhaka and the sadhaka is
communicating with Him. During the first few minutes, i.e. the first
stanza, the sadhaka is speaking indirectly to Him and telling: You
promised me in dhyana that You would come, and now You have come so
please grace me.

Prabhat Samgiita #3007:

Ke jeno a’sia’ marme pashiya’,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Mor jata dos’a mane ca’pa’ ros’a,
S’amiya’- karun’a’- karibe-,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Path dekha’yecho path bujhiya’chi
A’—————————–a’
Path dekha’yecho path bujhiya’chi
A’lasye upeks’a’ karechi—
Jene shune bhu’l pathe caliya’chi
Bharosa’- holo smita ha’sibe-,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Ja’ni mor bolite- kichu na’i,
A’————————-a’
Ja’ni mor bolite- kichu na’i,
Toma’r jinise mor bole ja’i
E moha chalana’ shra’nti ya’tana’
Bolo nirasan karibe- kabe,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Ke jeno a’sia’ marme pashiya’,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Purport:

(Note: Here the sadhaka is indirectly addressing Parama Purusa as He,
but the sadhaka is talking to Parama Purusa.)

Someone came, entered my heart, and said He would come in the vernal
month. He also told that He would forgive me for my suppressed
frustration and all my shortcomings, and shower His karuna’.

(Note: Now in their conversation the sadhaka is directly addressing
Parama Purusa as You.)

You showed me the path, and by Your grace I understood Your guideline;
yet because of my lethargy, I neglected to follow that path. Knowingly,
I treaded the wrong path; but because of Your love, I felt in my heart
that You would gently smile [1] when You come.

I know I have nothing to call my own, nothing belongs to me, even then I
think of Your objects as mine. [2] This infatuative deception, this
agony of illusion, O my Lord, please tell me when You will dispel it.

Baba, I do not have strength to follow your path, now You have come by
Your causeless grace pull me towards You on my Lord…

END NOTES FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA #3007:

[1]: When you have deep, deep love for someone, then you know in your
heart that when you see them, they will not think about your past
mistakes but will instead express their kindness and affection. It is
just like how a small child never thinks: “My mother will only calculate
about my wrongdoings when she sees me after school. Instead, with her
love my mom will warmly embrace me and serve me something sweet to eat.”
In stark contrast, in the case of the judge and a convict, that never
happens: The judge will always look upon the convict with consternation.
Whereas in the loving relation between Parama Purusa and the sadhaka,
when they meet He always showers His grace and kindness because at that
time both feel truly happy just by seeing one another.

[2]: Commonly human beings think that the material possessions that they
have are their own and they brag about that to others. People think, “I
have this property and this mansion and this prestige etc.” But they do
not know that what they think is theirs does not actually belong to
them. The real owner is Parama Purusa. What to say about one’s property,
their first shelter,. i.e. their body, also belongs to Him.

Baba says, “This body, this mind, this wealth has been given to me by
Parama Purus’a…That is, the actual owner of this body, the actual
owner of this mind is He.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam-14)

== IT IS NOT A JOKE ==

Namaskar,
By Baba’s grace, He has blessed us with all the practices and ways to
build up a healthy human society. One unique facet of this is our baby
naming ceremony, ja’takarma.

None should think then that our AM baby naming ceremony is just a casual
afternoon affair. It is not just a time to eat, drink and be merry.

Rather the occasion of ja’takarma is an integral and revolutionary part
of how we are to create a single universal family based on love,
affection and mutual respect. As we know, it demands our lifelong
commitment and dedication.

As a refresher, let’s take a closer look then at this program of
ja’takarma and examine just exactly what it entails.

HOW MANY HAVE YOU ATTENDED

Before beginning, we might ask ourselves: In my life, how many baby
naming ceremonies have I attended – either as a margii, acarya, mother,
father etc? Have I attended 1, 6, 25 or more? How many?

We should take a moment to reflect on each and every one.

After all, in our AM units and at our regional and sectorial retreats,
baby naming ceremonies are commonly held. Over the years, we might have
attended dozens of such programs.

NOT JUST A RITUAL

The first and foremost point to keep in mind is that our AM baby naming
ceremony is not just a ritual. It is not just a token celebration.
Everyone who participates – i.e. each and every attendee – is taking an
oath to be an active force in the proper development and growth of that
child.

Baba says, “The mantra of ja’takarma is the first step of human approach
in rousing the sense of responsibility and affection in man. Those, who
will be present on the occasion of the child’s ja’takarma, must also
indirectly have to bear the responsibility of bringing up the child. In
other words it will not do to sit inactive saying that the direct
responsibility in this connection is on its parents.” (Tattvika Diipika-4)

Thus all participants – all attendees – of the baby naming ceremony are
bound under oath to take an active role in ensuring the welfare of that
child – from its first feeding up till adulthood and beyond.

We must also remember that oaths are taken extremely seriously in AM and
like all our oaths, the oath taken by every attendee present at the
ja’takarma program is done in the name of Gurudeva. So it is a most
serious commitment and not something to be taken lightly.

So long as we are living on this earth we must consider and fulfill this
responsibility. Indeed, as Baba says, this is part of our sadhana.

Baba says, “The oath taken on the occasion of ja’takarma will reawaken
the sense of that duty again and again. Any grown-up person or any
father shall not forget his duty when he has once looked at the helpless
face of the child. It does not end here. In pursuance of the mantra of
ja’takarma in A’nanda Ma’rga, a child has not simply been regarded as a
child only but also a manifestation of Brahma in the child. So, serving
the child, shall be a part of sa’dhana’ (Brahma-Sa’dhana’) to him.”
(Tattvika Diipika-4)

Hence our oath to watch for the welfare of the newborn is not just a
commitment to a particular person, but an oath to watch over that baby
as a manifestation of Brahma. Thus our oath is to Parama Purusa and
comes within the scope of our dharma sadhana.

WHAT PEOPLE COMMONLY THINK

People in the general society commonly think that when a married couple
has a newborn then that child is the sole responsibility of the parents.
Most of the communities and countries of the world function under this
paradigm. Because of this, some in AM may also be thinking in this manner.

A person, even a new margii, might think that it is solely the duty of
the parents to bathe, clothe, feed, educate and look after the newborn
up to adulthood.

But in AM this is not our approach. Nowadays society is suffering
terribly and one of the reasons is that parents are overwhelmed and
challenged socially, economically, spiritually and in so many ways.
Under such pressure, they cannot raise children by themselves.
Especially those who suffer economic hardship, which is most of the
society these days. To eradicate all such problems and bring relief to
those parents in need, Baba has given this special system of ja’takarma.

Here again is Baba’s passage.

Baba says, “It will not do to sit inactive saying that the direct
responsibility in this connection is on its parents.” (Tattvika Diipika-4)

Rather in our unique system, that child is society’s responsibility and
in particular those in attendance at the ja’takarma ceremony are taking
an oath to care for and ensure the proper growth of that babe.

A few may be thinking: “Oh my, already my life is too busy – I will
never attend a ja’takarma program ever again.” But it is not like that.
As we all know, bearing the responsibility and taking oaths are part of
our debt and service to Guru. We are most fortunate to have been graced
with such an opportunity.

Baba says, “…The best you can do is only to serve. Remember, you are
to serve bearing in mind that every creature is verily the living
manifestation of the Supreme Consciousness. Remember also that the
credit of service is not yours; it is due to the Supreme and the Supreme
alone, whose ideation has inspired you to acquire the capability of
rendering service.” (A’nanda Va’nii #23)

Thus we should all be eager to attend the baby naming ceremonies in our
Marga and ready to fulfill our moral, social and spiritual duties with
regards to the raising of that child. And by taking an active role and
attending to our oath in a serious manner, then Baba will surely grace
us with the energy, understanding, and ability to be successful.

THE MANTRA OF JA’TAKARMA

Now, let us take a closer look at the baby naming ceremony itself as
well as the oaths involved.

Baba says, “When an infant is six months old (or any time between six
months and one year of age), at least five members of Ananda Marga will
gather together on a convenient day, and the infant will be laid before
them.” (Caryacarya-1)

In Caryacarya Baba further guides us about the program and also presents
the oaths to be taken by all attendees – i.e. all A’nanda Margiis
attending the program.

First we are under oath to watch for the physical well being of the child.

“O gracious Brahma, may we unitedly be able to arrange for the upkeep,
medical care and physical growth of this infant who has entered our
society today.”

Thereafter we take an oath to ensure the proper psychic growth of the
newborn.

“O gracious Brahma, may we be able to provide adequate education for the
mental development of this infant who has entered our society today.”

Then we take an oath to care for the spiritual development of the child.

“O gracious Brahma, may we succeed, through proper education, in
effecting the spiritual elevation of this infant who has entered our
society today.”

Finally, we take the oath to always remember that the child is but a
manifestation of the Supreme.

“O gracious Brahma, may we be able to see Your pervasive manifestation
in this infant, in the form of which You have appeared to us today. We
collectively give this baby the name . . . . . . .”

Upon the completion of this oath the new born is given its Sanskrit name.

NOT JUST SOME MUNDANE OATH

By all respects then, the oaths administered in the ja’takarma program
are most comprehensive and serious. It is verily a strict commitment by
every Ananda Margii present. To go against any of the oaths is to break
our vow to Guru.

Thus we should all take particular attention as to how we are to fulfill
this oath. We must not sit back and watch the parents struggle to raise
the child on their own. No one should be so slack in their oath to Guru.

Rather by taking the oath seriously, Baba will surely gives us the
courage, ability, insight, and opportunity to properly fulfill that
oath. Certainly He will bless us in this way. First, however, we must
each sincerely consider and internalise the oath, then He will provide
us the way.

Of course, many in our Marga are aware about all this and have taken
(in)direct responsibility for many newborns and babes in our Marga
society. And for others, perhaps there is scope for improvement.

Whatever the case may be, let’s us take this as a moment to re-evaluate
the content and responsibility associated with our jata’kjarma ceremony.

In the mundane society, thieves, politicians, lawyers, and all kinds of
people take oaths, only to soon break those oaths in a matter of days or
weeks. Our system – wherein each member of society must strive to become
a sadvipra – is not like that. An oath means a strict commitment to
Guru; it is a lifelong responsibility.

GREAT BENEFIT FOR SOCIETY

Here Baba neatly describes how the ja’takarma program helps create a
human society based on love and fraternity.

Baba says, ‘In this occasion no covering of the child has been
prescribed so that such a fine picture of the occasion may be stamped in
the minds of those present in the ceremony, as will not fade even when
the child will be full-grown. In later years, when the child will come
to him dressed as a gentleman, he will look on him as the self-same
child of the past ja’takarma ceremony and not as a gentleman of the
present day and will express signs of tenderness and responsibility in
his dealings. The fact that he had taken oath regarding the child will
rise afresh in his mind. When the child also, thus dressed as a
gentleman, will learn that he is one among those who took part in his
ja’takarma ceremony, he will respect and regard him as a father and this
will result in a sweet social relation.” (Tattvika Diipika-4)

Thus we must must carry this forward; by this way so many good results
will occur in the society. Through this unique ja’takarma system, no one
will feel isolated – all will feel cared for – no one will be left
behind. Gradually the whole society will purified. Through these oaths,
all are seen as family members and those elders rightly earn the respect
of the youths. Indeed, when the baby grows then there is a sweet and
blissful relation amongst all. That is Baba’s teaching.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with a most unique baby-naming
ceremony. Such a system is not present anywhere else.

It is our bounden duty to take this seriously – we must keep our oaths,
otherwise we will just be hypocrites and doing an injustice to Guru.

In our sadvipra led society, we must all aim for that high ideal and
carry out all oaths accordingly. It is not just a joke. By properly
fulfilling the oaths related with ja’takarma, a great new society will
flourish on this earth, by His grace.

Baba says, “Society must ensure that proper care is taken of human
babies who are totally dependent on the care and protection of their
parents for their existence. These helpless children can only convey
their pain and discomfort through tears. To raise children from infancy
to maturity is an immensely important task. I have said before that the
members of society must advance in unison. The newborn babe is another
traveller on the path. To adopt a child as our companion, as one
included in the society, is called the “ja’takarma” of the child.”
(A Few Problems Solved-6)

Namaskar,
Ram Sahay

******************************************
To Those Who Can’t Concentrate

Baba says, “Most people are well acquainted with the fourth state of
mind (eka’gra). In this state the human mind sometimes becomes exalted
with divine sweetness; and sometimes becomes as debased as an infernal
creature. Sometimes it keeps company with good people and takes a
resolve never to tell lies, accept bribes, get intoxicated, or become
characterless; and sometimes it thinks that honesty and virtue are sheer
folly, for happiness lies in falsehood, taking bribes, stealing,
promiscuity, and the like. The mind is continuously tossed between good
and bad. But when the practice of sa’dhana’ inspires one to accept
shreya (path of benevolence) as one’s ideology, one attains the true
state of eka’gra bhu’mi. In this state waves upon waves of citta emerge.”

Sha’ntaditao tulyapratyayao cittasyaeka’girata’parin’a’ma

“Every newcomer to the path of sa’dhana’ suffers from a lack of
concentration of mind. After repeating the is’t’a mantra a couple of
times hundreds of undesirable thoughts flood the mind. The newcomer
thinks, “I am unable to attain the One on whom I meditate, and instead
am pestered by those objects I do not want.” The hand counts the beads,
the lips mutter the name of the is’t’a, but the mind roams in the filth
of hell. When all the undesirable waves are removed from the mind, one
blissful wave begins to flow, and the sa’dhaka attains the state of
eka’gra bhu’mi.” (AMIWL-9)

Note: If in your sadhana you are not one pointed (eka’gra means “one
pointed”) it means you are not repeating your mantra in a proper manner
– it means you are lacking sincerity and regularity of practice.
******************************************

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Bull & Human Behaviour

Date: Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:58:46 -0000
From: “Motilal Deva”
Subject: Bull & Human Behaviour
To: am-global@earthlink.net

Baba

“Toma’ke bha’lo besechi, tumi shudhu mane acho…” (P.S. 2562)

Purport:

Baba, I love You; only You are in my mind. You are my dearmost One and
You alone are mine; You are the only moon in my mental sky– mental
plate. Baba, except You, everything else in this entire universe is
temporary. Everything comes for a short time and then get lost into thin
air, into the oblivion. Baba, only You are beginningless and endless;
only You remain permanently– eternally.
Baba, nothing lasts forever in this world. At the end of the day, night
falls and the light of day gets engulfed by the darkness. Similarly, the
darkness of the night vanishes with the advent of the brilliant new
dawn. Thus everything in this world is changing, transient. But the
constant pouring of Your divine effulgence continues on and on– it
knows no limit; it knows no end.
Baba, I am loving You; You are always residing in my mind; You are my
only polestar. Baba, You are my Goal; You are my everything…

== BULL & HUMAN BEHAVIOUR ==

Namaskar,
We have all seen how Baba uses all kinds of colourful analogies to help
deliver His message and put forth an important point for our betterment
and learning.

Some of these analogies are very easy to understand, some less so. It
depends upon the person and their experience.

What cannot be denied, however, is that each of these analogies hold
great meaning and insight into the life of every spiritual aspirant. So
we should strive to understand every morsel of Baba’s analogies.

WHAT IS NEEDED TO BE UNDERSTOOD

Baba has given one analogy about bulls and the burden of having an
inflated ego, asmita’. The analogy relates of course to our human
experience and sadhaka life.

To gain clear understanding of Baba’s teaching, three things are needed:

(1) Knowledge about bulls;
(2) knowledge of Hindi or Sanskrit, and;
(3) knowledge of Baba’s spiritual teachings on vanity, ego and devotion.

Once all the above three components are known, then the reader will have
complete understanding of Baba’s teaching in this analogy.

Since I was not aware of the above I consulted with my acarya and now
share what I learned with all of you. Perhaps this is known to you
already, perhaps not. In either case we get opportunity to once again
review and contemplate Baba’s divine teaching.

ABOUT BULLS

First off, as you may know, bulls can be quite terrifying creatures.
They have big, sharp horns, a menacing look, and a potentially nasty
disposition. Not only that, they are huge and can weigh up to 1000kg or
2200lbs or more, even as much as 2000kg or 4400lbs. So they can be quite
intimidating and ferocious.

Often these bulls live in areas where they are the biggest animals, as
usually there are no elephants nor whales where bulls reside. So when
full-grown and healthy, bulls consider themselves to be the strongest
entity alive.

When they walk this earth they are well-known for making this type of
sound, “Hmmm”. This is their natural sound, especially when they are angry.

ABOUT HINDI

The next component needed to understand the analogy are two simple Hindi
words.

The term “ham” in Hindi and other Indian languages means “I”. And the
term “tum” in Hindi means “you”.

That is also essential to understand Baba’s teaching.

EGO, VANITY & DEVOTION

Then of course we all know that ego or I-ness has an inverse
relationship with devotion. The aim of our human life is to realise that
Parama Purusa is the Supreme Subject and Supreme Doer in the universe,
not our little “I” feeling.

We are to think, “O’ Parama Purusa You are everything, because of Your
grace everything happens.”

Baba says, “By His mercy one can [do] anything and everything. Without
His mercy even a blade of grass cannot move.” (AV-30)

Baba says, “Gurukrpa’ hi kevalam – “The Guru’s grace is everything.”
This alone is the supreme truth. This is the be-all and end-all of
life.” (AFPS-8)

With this idea in mind, then one can lead a devotional life, realising
that His love, presence and touch guide us in all circumstances.

Baba says, “Through devotion you should realize that He is the life of
your life, the Lord of your inner heart.” (APH-7)

By his grace, with devotion we can practically feel that He is the
be-all and end-all of life.

However, a devotional outlook is categorically impossible when one is
sunk in their own egoistic feeling. Then one thinks, “I am great, I have
done so many things, I am the king of the mountain” etc. In that case
one will give all credit to themselves, and not even think of Parama
Purusa.

Baba says, ““I did this, I did that, I’m not an ordinary man” – like
this. In devotion there is no scope for being puffed up with vanity.”
(SS-21)

Thus the more one gets absorbed in their own petty ego, the less one is
able to realise Him. Ego, or asmita’, then is the main stumbling block
in leading a devotional life.

HOW BABA WRITES THE ANALOGY

With the above understanding about bulls, Hindi and ego, then we can
best understand Baba’s below analogy and how it relates with human life.

Baba says, “People say that a bull, when he is in the fullness of his
strength, [calls] Ham, meaning “I am great.” After he dies, the
[cotton-spinner] makes a bow with strings from his intestines, and it
produces the sound Tun, Tun, meaning “You are great.” Thus will fall the
ego ultimately. Therefore the wise will take the “You are great” stance
from the very beginning.” (AV-23)

LITERAL EXPLANATION

Since the bull thinks it is so strong and walks around all day calling
“hmmm”, “hmmm, “hmmm” – similar to the Hindi word “ham” meaning “I” –
Baba is making the joke that a bull is totally stuck in its own unit
ego, touting its own greatness, day in & day out.

However a day is sure to come when it will die and its body parts and
intestines will be used as a string on a machine to spin cotton. Then
the sound of that bull will be “tun”, “tun” – similar to the Hindi word
“tum” meaning “You”. Thus after its death, when its ego is crushed, then
and only then does the bull recognise Parama Purusa and repeat, “You are
everything.”

Best then is to overcome the pitfalls of the ego early in life, and sing
His praises each and every day – why wait until death, like the bull does.

This is the humorous yet highly significant meaning of Baba’s analogy.

WHAT IT ALL MEANS

With regards to our human life, we all know how when people gain success
and gather name, fame, prosperity, and fortune, then they often think
that they are really great – then their ego is on the top.

In that case, they are prone to a fall. In social life, their ego will
be a problem. But in their spiritual life it will be deadly.

Because with a big ego, one will forget Him and accumulate all kinds of
samskaras, negative karma, and sink oneself in all sorts of burdens.
When one forgets that the Doership is Him and instead drowns in the
mantra, “I am great – I did this” etc, then there is not an iota of
scope for devotion.

Stuck up in that kind of egoistic superiority complex, they will create
hell in the their personal life and their spiritual life will be nil. As
Baba says below, theirs is a “Himalayan ignorance”.

Baba says, “When people perceive something through the mind, they think
that their sight or perception alone is the factor which determines the
existence of an object. This sort of foolish presumption is called
asmita’ [ego]. Such people cannot understand that not only behind their
cognition but also behind their sensation there exists the radiant
reflection of an Effulgent Entity. This radiance is reflected not only
in the crude and subtle but in the causal entity as well, and is the
perfect semblance of His characteristic identity. Ignorant people cannot
think of anything beyond what little light reflection they see on their
own unit entities; their sense entities remain confined within that very
limit. And that is why the ignorant materialists do not want to
recognize anything beyond his observable world. This flagrant disregard
on their part is not mere arrogance but Himalayan ignorance.” (AMIWL-5)

The only way out is to escape the shackles of one’s ego and accept Him
as the sole aim of life. That is the intelligent way to live. And that
should be started from this very moment, not when one is old an gray, or
even worse – dead, like the bull.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has given us the perfect recipe for living a life
above the fray of ego and vanity, ensconced in the spiritual ideal that
He is everything and that all inspiration and energy stem from Him. Then
one can serve all without vanity and reach Him by surrendering unto His
sweet will. No one then should live their life like a bull, sunk in
their own false sense of prestige and vanity. That is Baba’s teaching to
us all.

Baba says, “Now, this complete surrender, complete self-sacrifice, is to
be done. But how? What is the secret? All human egos, all egoistic
expressions, are based on the vanity moving around the self, moving
around the “I” feeling, the first expression of existence. “I am” is the
base, is the fundament, of all egos and all vanities. You know, when a
man learns much or earns much, his ego, his vanity, gets puffed up. The
man gets puffed up with vanity, and under such circumstances he becomes
so conscious of his little existence that it becomes very difficult for
him to surrender before the Supreme. What to speak of surrender, even if
a logical theory is placed before him, he does not like to accept it. He
thinks that if he accepts that theory, if he accepts that veracity, it
will be humiliating for him. This sort of psychology misguides him under
such circumstances. How to surrender? This can be done internally with
the help of dhya’na [meditation in which the psyche is directed towards
Consciousness], and externally by ascribing Godhood to all external
entities.”

“While helping the poor people your vanity may increase. You may think:
“I have done this, I have done that. I am not an ordinary man.” This is
a psychic disease. Actually, vanity is a psychic disease, a psychic
ailment. But if, while helping a man, a poor man, or a diseased person,
you ascribe Godhood to him, that is, if you think, “I am not helping a
man, I am helping God in human structure,” then vanity will not be
encouraged. What will be the reaction within the person? “This body,
this mind, this wealth has been given to me by Parama Purus’a, and
Parama Purus’a has come before me, God has come before me, as a
suffering person, and I am paying back that thing to Him. That is, the
actual owner of this body, the actual owner of this mind is He, and His
wealth I am paying back to Him.” So there will be no vanity.”

“And I said that the internal process is meditation. In meditation,
Parama Purus’a becomes your object and you become the subject. You
become the seer and He becomes the seen. But the inner spirit of
meditation is that while looking at Him internally with your inner eye,
you should think: “I am not meditating on Him nor am I seeing Him
mentally. What is actually happening is that He is seeing me; that is, I
am the object and He is the subject. He sees whatever I do, He sees
whatever I think, so I am His object and He is my subject.” This idea
helps in freeing oneself from the serpentine noose of ego and vanity.”
(AV-14)

Namaskar,
Motilal

Note 1: MORE ON EGO / VANITY AND REALISING HIM

These below two posting clearly review the entire concept behind the
statement, “the umbrella of vanity”, how that ruins one’s life and how
one can feel His grace.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/02/unfortunate-umbrella.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/03/date-sat-07-march-2009-230429-0000-to.html

Note 2: FURTHER READING ON BABA’S ANALOGIES

These below letters look at other interesting analogies that Baba uses
in His discourses to put forth His sublime teachings.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/08/early-catching-is-good.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/08/story-of-three-thieves.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/01/dog-analogy-is-right-one.html

***************************************
Practical Aspect of Mysticism

Baba says, “Mysticism is a never-ending endeavour to find a link between
finite and infinite.” (AV-23, p.101)

Note: Here Baba is indirectly giving the guideline that in the realm of
devotion one should have a particular personal relation with Parama
Purusa. And these relations are known as “bhava”– whether they be
sakhya bhava, dasya bhava, madhura bhava etc. So these various bhavas
are that very “link between finite and infinite”. Because with the help
of these relations devotees gradually come in closer and closer
proximity with Parama Purusa. Until finally by linking up in this way
the sadhaka becomes one with Him.
***************************************

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Misinformation in our Official Book

Date: Mon, 11 Apr 2011 20:12:26 +0530

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Subject: Misinformation in our Official Book

From: Manomohan Sanyal

Baba

== MISINFORMATION IN OUR OFFICIAL BOOK ==

Namaskar,

We have all come across certain books which provide us with a distinct

glimpse or insight into a particular area of life. With their composed form

and expert guidelines, such texts, or reference materials, grant us a

deeper look, greater breadth, and a unique angle. Certainly the “A’nanda

Ma’rga Dictionary” (2005) aimed to be such a tool. How far it has achieved

this however is for everyone to decide. Here following are some key terms

that can serve as a measuring rod in this regard.

BABA’S SPECIAL DEFINITION OF SANSKRIT (SAM’SKRTA)

Each and every Ananda Margii has experienced to some or more degree the

unique and special role that the Sanskrit language has. Indeed Baba has

described and outlined the important use of Sanskrit– both now and in the

future.

Indeed without any doubt, Baba has ceremoniously told how Sam’skrta has a

distinct purpose and use in the present-day world and beyond.

Baba says, “India is one and indivisible…Let Sam’skrta be the national

language, as this will provide equal opportunity to all.” (PNS-17)

Thus according to Baba, Sam’skrta is a “live” language– a language that

carries special utility.

GURU’S DEFINITION IS TOP-MOST

And being the Sadguru and Founder of AM, Baba’s opinion is the Ananda Marga

perspective of the term. His description is the defining point; it is the

true Ananda Marga definition– period.

And by looking around we can easily find numerous examples in our Ananda

Marga way of life as well as in Baba’s discourses that all point to the

deep significance and use of Sanskrit.

Yet, for one reason or another, the editors of the new AM Dictionary go

against Baba’s guidelines and instead describe ‘Samskrta’ in a totally

different way– as if Sanskrit is a thing of the past.

Because in their reference publication the editors & “experts” involved

with the AM Dictionary have basically defined Sanskrit as being a dead

language (p.115).

SANSKRIT’S GREAT USE IN THE PRESENT DAY WORLD

Why or how those editors did like this we should think, but here is further

proof of Samskrta’s clear-cut importance and use in the world.

(A) Baba has given approximately 10,000 pages worth of discourses solely

dedicated to the technical aspects and innuendos of Sanskrit grammar. These

writings are captured in the various books and series: Varna Vijiana, Varna

Vicitra, Laghu Nirukta, Shabda Cayanika, P.R. Sarkar Grammar & more. And

when as the Dharma Guru His each and every word carries special

significance for the growth and development of the society, then how can

anyone lay claim that Sanskrit is a dead language when Baba Himself devotes

thousands of pages of material on Sanskrit.

(B) Baba has appointed Sanskrit as one of the mandatory languages to be

studied in our acarya / WT training centres. So Baba has included the

Sanskrit language as required learning for guiding the society. It is an

integral part of developing human understanding and spiritual knowledge.

(C) Plus in our Marga, each and every activity in life from morning till

night is characterized by Sanskrit terminology. From paincajanya to

dharmacakra, from kiirtan to sadhana, from satsaunga to svadhyaya to samyak

ajiiva, our each and every motion in life is beautifully named and

described in the Sanskrit language– including all our mantras also.

(D) And of course each and every Ananda Margii has given up their

worldly or laokik names and instead been given a name from the Sanskrit

language. Indeed we need not look any further than how we call one another

as proof of the vibrancy of the Sanskrit language in the present-day world.

(E) In addition in India and around the globe there are thousands of

Sanskrit universities and colleges where they speak exclusively in Sanskrit.

(F) Even worldly dictionaries highlight and define Sanskrit as still being

in use. So it is unfortunate that the recently created AM Dictionary

defined Sanskrit as ‘a thing of the past’.

SOME LANGUAGES HAVE DIED– BUT NOT SANSKRIT

(G) Surely enough there are innumerable languages which have died away from

this earth such as Pra’krta, Vedic, and Pali, etc.

Baba says, “One thousand years after its birth, Magadhii Pra’krta also died

a natural death.”

However Sanskrit is not one of those expired languages. Rather it is

commonly known– and growing.

Baba says, “I am using Sam’skrta slokas and not Pa’li because Pa’li may not

be intelligible to you. Sam’skrta is better understood. That is why I am

using Sam’skrta slokas.” (Prout 10)

BABA’S UNIQUE DIRECTIVES ABOUT SANSKRIT

(H) And here are more of Baba’s famous teachings on the grand utility and

beauty of Sanskrit.

Baba says “If Sam’skrta is used human unity will be encouraged and human

beings will move closer together…So you should encourage the study of

Sam’skrta.” (PNS-17)

Baba says, “At the time of initiation or shortly afterwards, those who do

not have a Sanskrit name should be given one by the A’carya.” (CC I, p.6,

1995 Ed.)

Baba says, “The Sanskrit name should be used in all worldly dealings.” (CC

I p. 7, 1995 Ed.)

Baba says, “India is one and indivisible…Let Sam’skrta be the national

language, as this will provide equal opportunity to all.” (PNS-17)

By His above guidelines, it is crystal clear that Baba directs us that we

are to use and propagate Sanskrit more and more; but those “experts” behind

the AM Dictionary are directly or indirectly discouraging it– by that way

they are only ruining their own credibility. Because which margii will pay

heed to the way these editors are making their dictionary.

SANSKRIT NOT THE ONLY CASE

Unfortunately not just Sanskrit, but the editors have ill-defined or poorly

defined various other key terms in AM life such as Vrinda’van (p.147),

prakrtaliina (p.96), vivaha (p.147) etc, as well as included some terms and

names which just do not belong such as Ac. Shraddhananda Avt, (p.8) etc.

For instance, the editors dogmatically define Vrindavan as “an important

pilgrimmage spot for the Hindus” when Baba uniquely guides us that

Vrindavan is that ‘special devotional place in the devotee’s heart.’ (NKS)

In a separate example, there is the term Prakrtaliina which Baba describes

as follows.

Baba says, “Those who wrongly worship Parama Purus’a in the form of clay,

iron or other material substances, are ultimately transformed into

prakrtiliina.” (YP, p.79)

By this definition it is quite clear that prakrtaliina is a type of

negative microvita. Yet in the AM Dictionary the editors wrongly define

prakrtaliina as “positive microvita”.

Thus like swapping over day to night, the editors mix up nearly every

word– overturning common and basic terms from our Ananda Marga way of life.

Tragically, those Dictionary writers make more mistakes on nearly every

page, thus how can I include them all here. Some further are noted below.

REFLECTION & RECTIFICATION

The culminating idea is that Baba has beautifully provided us with new

terms and definitions by which to spiritualize and revolutionize the entire

society. He has given us the all the tools to propel the society in the a

positive direction. So any dictionary of AM terms properly should carry the

spirit and accuracy of Baba’s use of words. Unfortunately those inventors

of the first AM Dictionary could not properly hold up the AM Banner. So

those black spots should be corrected and / or others who are more up to

the task should be given opportunity to be part of the next edition of the

AM Dictionary. Because those with shallow knowledge always create problems.

BABA’S BLESSING

By His grace and through the proper understanding of Baba’s teachings we

are sure create that great human society.

Baba says, “Build an ideal human society based on dharma. Let this be the

sole mission in your life.” (NKS ’81 Edn, p.155)

Namaskar,

Manomohan

Note 1: ABOUT THOSE INVOLVED

Who knows who has really written this AM Dictionary. Although

Shambhushivanandaji is listed & treated a key figure in all of this, I do

not believe he really could have done such a thing. So although

Shambhushivanandaji name is printed there who knows how far it is true

because these days articles are regularly written by one person yet someone

else’s name is listed in the “by” line etc. Because to make their bosses

happy writers have to list the names of their supervisors as being the main

people. In this way when everything is proper, the bosses get all the name

and fame but when something is negative then those same bosses should also

be ready to face other remarks. Anyway, whatever the trend, I still do not

believe that Shambhushivanandaji was involved in such publication. Because

being a Gurukul chief, how can it be that he does not know the simple and

basic truth about many points related with our AM ideology. So surely other

people are involved and they just stuck his name there. But those others

who are involved and whose names are listed are so insignificant then what

can be said about them. Overall this book will mislead innocent readers

whereas those who are more experienced and alert have already thrown this

book away in the garbage.

Note 2: PRECISION NEEDED

It is well known and commonly accepted that any proper Grammar book

dictionary should be pristine, clear, conclusive, and flawless. That is why

Baba has given utmost importance of purity and sanctity to our scriptures.

Because of the wrong interpretations of their scripture Buddhism got

divided. On that point we are fortunate because up till now at least on

ideological points even various narrow and dogmatic groupist people do not

have a difference of opinion about Ista & Adarsha. All have faith. Because

Baba has given everything in a clear and conclusive manner. But if we allow

this trend of publishing negative books then the situation will not be in

favour.

Note 3: HOW THEY PUT SHRADDHANANDAJI IN THE DICTIONARY

Ac Shraddhananda Avt.- the one who diverts all his energies

towards the ultimate truth is filled with bliss… (p. 8)

By seeing this type of definition then all sorts of things strike in the

mind.

First point being that everybody knows that Shraddhanandaji himself stopped

following Sixteen Points when he took over the top chair. Means since 1990

Shraddhanandaji did (a) not sing kiirtan, (b) not do guru puja, (c)

not sing Prabhat Samgiita, (d) not attend dharmacakra, (e) not

attend paincajanya, and (f) not raise the Jai slogan for Baba. Plus he

started watching all sorts of crude TV programs and he kept himself aloof

from the margiis. Like this in so many regards he was off the mark

entirely– not following Baba’s guidelines of 16 Points and Bhagavata Dharma.

Thus who can believe that by this way they have included and defined

Shraddhanandaji in the AM Dictionary. It is downright shocking as we all

are aware of the legacy left behind by the first PP. Under his watch groupism

flourished and spread like a disease in our Marga. That is the old story

that everyone knows. In that case is our former PP Dada really “the one who

diverted all his energies towards the ultimate truth…”. You should

decide for yourself if that is accurate and if his name should remain in

our AM Dictionary.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Toma’re ke cinite pa’re balo…” (P.S. 782)

Purport:

Baba tell me, who can recognise You. It is not easy to recognise You.

You go on moving on Your own path of forward movement. You do not care

about any obstacles or hindrances. You always remain with everyone, side by

side, individually and collectively through Your ota and prota yoga

(individual tactuality and collective tactuality).*

You are with everyone; You never hate anyone. To encourage and inspire

one and all to do good deeds, You fill their minds with benevolent thoughts

and You give them strength to go on doing great work. Baba, Your divine

play is unparalleled, & unfathomable also.

Everything is Your expression and in that way You are always present. In

the scorching heat of the summer sun’s hot wind and also in the cold breeze

of ice-covered mountains– everywhere You are. In the deep, dark, depths at

the bottom of the ocean and at the same time in the raging heat of the

mirage in the desert, everywhere You are dancing and everything is Your

expression.

In the burning heat of the desert You provide the soothing shade of the

tree, and You pour nectar in everyone’s heart. You saturate the human heart

with the divine nectar. Baba Your ways are infinite. Your liila is beyond

comparison…

* In Gwalior DMC in 1984 Baba told the meaning in English of ota and prota

yoga– “individual tactuality and collective tactuality”.

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

If We Follow

Baba says, “You must continue doing good to society, and at the same time

must fight against the bad…On the path of dharma, one is not only to do

noble deeds; one must also fight against the dishonest people both are

virtuous actions. There are many good people in the society – noble people

engaged in noble deeds – who are not ready to fight against wrongs and

injustices. This sort of passive benevolence does not really promote the

cause of human progress in the world. What is desirable is to acquire

virtue by doing noble deeds and fighting against all sins and crimes. Both

are mandatory, both an integral part of dharma.” (AV-8, p. 50-51)

Note: If we follow Baba’s above mandate our organisation will be free from

all kinds of negativity. Stagnant minded people will not get the

opportunity to pollute Baba’s ideology by imposing their dogma.

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

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Dispute on Pronunciation of Kiirtan

Date: 07 Apr 2011 16:38:46 -0000

From: “Shivadayal Deva”

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Subject: Dispute on Pronunciation of Kiirtan

 

Baba

 

“Maneri gahane tumi a’cho, a’cho prabhu sada’ jege a’cho…” (4380)

 

Purport:

 

Baba, You are always remaining in the depths of my mind– You never leave me. Baba, You always remain awake. You go on working day and night, beyond all time. You never stop. Baba, whatever You want to do, You continue doing ceaselessly

This whole expressed universe is Your eternal game. You are ever-present: beginningless and endless. You are ever intoxicated in Your divine flow. You are the Goal of everyone– everyone wants You. You are remaining with one and all.

Baba, only those trying to come close to You by their virtuous deeds and by shravan, manan, nididhyasana [1], & dhyana, are able to reach near to You. Only they are able to realise You and have Your grace and proximity.

Baba, You are grace-Personified…

 

 

NOTES FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA 4380:

 

[1] Shravan, Manan, Niddhidhyasana: Here below Baba explains the great import of these three devotional practices.

 

Baba says, “To attain Him human beings have to take recourse to shravana (constantly hearing His name), manana (constantly ideating on Him) and nididya’sana (constantly meditating on Him). The Supreme Entity is Gurha, that is, He is lying hidden in the innermost recess of the human entity. To attain Him one must penetrate deep within oneself, and for that the development of an introversial outlook is essential.” (Tattva Kaomudii – 3)

 

 

== DISPUTE ON THE PRONUNCIATION OF KIIRTAN ==

 

Namaskar,

There has been dialog – and even disputes – about the correct pronunciation of our kiirtan mantra.

 

 

ABOUT THE BELOW WRITTEN MANTRAS

 

(Note: The following has been written in Roman Sanskrit. If you are not aware about Roman Sanskrit you can consult our AM books, especially English books published since 2000. Those editions have an expanded explanation of the Roman Sanskrit alphabet pronunciation. That will help in understand the below. Here pronunciation is important because our kiirtan is a practice. We sing this mantra so we should pronounce it properly.)

 

 

FIRST STYLE OF PRONUNCIATION

 

In some parts of India and in most overseas sectors, the pronunciation is generally like this:

 

(a) Ba’ba’ na’m kevalam

 

 

SECOND STYLE OF PRONUNCIATION

 

In other parts, especially where those born and raised in Bengal reside or those whose mother tongue is that language, the following pronunciation is done:

 

(b) Ba’ba’ na’mo kevalamo

 

Regarding the above, some non-native speakers think that the addition of “o” adds a melodious aspect. But they should remember that the mantra must be spoken in a proper way. It is just like how we do not change the pronunciation of our Ista mantra to seemingly make it more melodious. One must always remember that the mantra is based on sound vibration. And the sound should be accurately spoken or chanted. For instance, nobody says: “Babo” to make the mantra more melodious. Because all clearly understand that is not correct.

 

 

THIRD STYLE OF PRONUNCIATION

 

And finally, in some rare cases, this is spoken:

 

(c) Ba’ba’ na’ma’ kevalama’

 

 

SINGERS DISPUTE ~ MARGIIS FOLLOW

 

For years and years, on and off, people have been claiming that their own pronunciation is right. Singers propagate a particular style which they think is correct. Sometime singers quarrel amongst themselves about the pronunciation. Some singers wish to advance their own particular view, it seems.

 

General margiis do not engage in this debate. They follow whatever the lead singer sings.

 

 

MUST BE VIGILANT

 

As disciples of Baba we should be very strict to follow the way in which Baba pronounces the mantra. We should not chant it in the wrong way. We must not be lax about this. This is a vital point: Mantra is a sound vibration. If it is chanted wrongly, it will not produce the desired effect.

 

 

NEW AUDIO FILE: BABA’S STYLE OF PRONUNCIATION

 

To find out the correct pronunciation that Baba really wants and resolve this issue permanently, we should follow Baba’s way.

 

Toward this end, a sound file has been uploaded to the AM-GLOBAL blogsite in the upper left column. It is titled: Baba’s Pronunciation: Baba Nam Kevalam.

 

We should all download and listen to Guru’s style of pronunciation and emulate that. We must practice in that way.

 

In tantra, what Guru says is final. We should not be confused. Ultimately we are singing for Him so we should pronounce the mantra in the way Baba does. We must not allow others to preach their own agenda and pollute the scene. We should follow Baba’s way.

 

Namaskar,

Shivadayal

 

Read Full Post »

Thief Inside the House

Date: Fri, 28 May 2010 21:17:46 +0530
To: AM-GLOBAL
From: “Pandit_Sudhakar”
Subject: Thief Inside the House

Baba

Toma’re a’mi ceyechi (PS 3000)

Purport:

Baba, I have wanted You in hundreds of forms, inwardly, within
every pore of my mind. O’ Lord of my heart, why did You not come?
Why You did You remain afar? Is it because of Your wounded ego.
Baba, I have wanted You.

Baba, keeping Yourself invisible, You are singing with delight.
You make the river of melody flow to satiate my heart. The strings
of Your viina, with its sweet resonance, floats & brings me to the
distant sky. Baba, I have wanted You.

O’ Baba, this divine attraction of Yours is impossible to avoid.
The sweetness and love of my mind races unto You. What a blissfully
sweet nectar You have spread all around. By Your grace, Your divine
fragrance always remains in my heart. Its tune, its pollen and Your
love draws me to You – not paying heed to any restrictions or
obstacles. Baba, by Your divine pull, I am rushing towards You.

O’ Lord of my heart, why did You not come, I have wanted You…

== THIEF INSIDE THE HOUSE ==

~ AN INTRODUCTION ~

Namaskar,
When Guru has specially given something in a particular manner or method
and then certain people in AM attempt to swap out the main ingredient
and instead insert something else, is that not like having a ‘thief
inside the house’.

BABA’S SUBLIME IDEALS

We all know Baba has graciously come on this earth to spread His sublime
ideals amongst the whole humanity. His goal is to put forth teachings
that will allow and enable all human beings to grow and prosper and live
peacefully together. In short, during His advent, we can say that His
main emphasis was to put forth AM ideology.

And for that to happen, He needed to ensure that what He spoke and what
He told told was properly understood by the people. Because His
directions, guidelines, and instructions are AM ideology– nothing else.

THE NECESSITY OF TEACHING SANSKRIT

For this reason from the very outset, from the get-go, Baba spoke in
ways most conducive for us to understand His divine ideals. Accordingly,
He began educating us about the Sanskrit language. Because Sanskrit
contains many of the words, phrases, and concepts needed to teach the
ideals of AM. So Baba used Sanskrit as a definitive base for propagating
His ideals. Furthermore, to ensure that the Sanskrit words were properly
understood, He clarified and expounded upon their meaning and usage.
This He has done in countless discourses; this anyone can verify. Thus
teaching Sanskrit became part and parcel of spreading His mission.

WAYS IN WHICH BABA EMPHASIZED SANSKRIT

Indeed Baba has used Sanskrit in so many unique ways in our AM. He has
put the Roman Sanskrit alphabet in the beginning of every AM book; He
has made the system for giving everyone Sanskrit names; He has given all
our mantras in Sanskrit; and He carefully explained the meaning of
Sanskrit words– like bhakti, dharma, tantra, mantra, Ista– in His
various discourses. Plus there are so many other examples how Baba has
used Sanskrit to put forth His AM ideology. All done so that everyone
could understand the various teachings which He wished to convey to the
humanity.

Thus from 1955 up through 1990, Baba taught us more and more about
Sanskrit so that we could develop a better understanding of His sublime
ideals of– because other languages did not have words to express what
He wanted to say.

THE REASON FOR EXPOUNDING UPON

That is why early on Baba explained about the importance of language in
discourses like ‘Expression and Symbolisation’. And that is why in
countless discourses in Ananda Vacanamrtam and Sabhasita Samgraha Baba
explains the meaning, derivation, and application of so many Sanskrit
words. Indeed such a large number of His discourses begin in this very
manner.

And then later on, when a strong foundation of understanding Sanskrit
had already been established, then Baba spoke in greater detail about
Sanskrit and its special relation with all the other languages around
the globe. Thus in His books Varna Vijiana, Varna Vicitra, and Shabda
Cayanika, Baba is further explaining the essence of the Sanskrit and its
link with all the major & minor languages spoken on this earth, from
French to Hebrew to Spanish to Urdu, and from Latin to Greek to Hindi to
Swahili, and from Tagalo to Bengali to Angika to Chinese, and from
Korean to Japanese to Portuguese to English etc.

Baba says, “In Ma’gadhii Pra’krta, as in Bengali, Oriya, Assamese,
Maethilii, Bhojpuri, Angika, Magahii, Chattrishgar’ii, Na’gpurii, etc.,
there is no difference between masculine, feminine and neuter genders in
the genitive case.” (VV, chapter 10)

And again, all of this was done for the greater goal of not highlighting
any particular language per se, but so that Baba could clearly put forth
His AM ideals in a way which was most comprehensible to us.

THIEF IN THE HOUSE

Unfortunately, some have understand all this entirely, and in order to
highlight their own language, they propagandise day and night how Baba
is highlighting the importance of Bengali. For example, in each and
every AM book, Baba has designated a particular page for delineating the
Roman Sanskrit alphabet. But if you open the Bengali version of those
same books certain Bengali Dadas named that very page as the Bengali
alphabet, ‘Bangla Varna Mala’. Such is an example of their thievery.
Baba has given something and they have switched it for something else.
It is just like putting one’s own personal sign on the front of someone
else’s business. It is unethical, illegal, and totally duplicitous.

Verily the Sanskrit alphabet is closely related with so many Indo Aryan
languages, but no other language community took away Baba’s title of
Sanskrit alphabet and put their own language name at the top of the
alphabet page in AM books. Only certain top Bengali Dadas committed such
thievery and distortion.

And they did not stop there, they are also trying to proclaim the series
of books like Shabda Cayanika & Varna Vijiana as being dedicated to the
study of Bengali. When in reality Baba has given those series discourses
to explain Sanskrit and its link with other languages so that others may
best understand that teachings of Ananda Marga.

But this fact those Bengali Dadas & their agents do not like to
understand. Instead, day and night they engage in their silly agenda of
the Bangalisation of the holy house of our Ananda Marga.

OUR AIM

True disciples have no other aim in life than to highlight Guru’s
teachings. That is the goal– not the Hindi-isation, Angli-cisation,
Sino-isation, Spanish-isation, or any so-called isation of Ananda Marga.
Only our goal is to propagate the Ananda Marga which Guru has given.
This is our sole reason for coming on this earth.

Tragically, some have some other agenda, some other ulterior motive. And
even worse, some of these people are living right here in Ananda Marga
and they are trying for the Bangalisation of AM.
And this we must not allow.

Only we should propagate the true Ananda Marga which Baba has given.
That means highlighting His teachings and not some narrow-minded agenda.

FUTURE POINTS TO BE ADDRESSED

Please excuse me as this topic is very long and there are innumerable
points to convey. So to best respect the recent poll which shows that
letters addressed to this network should be shorter in length, I am
closing my letter here. In follow-up I may write again soon, yet also
request other of our margii brothers and sisters to address this
important topic.

Here is a glimpse of what is to come:

* Sanskrit does not have its own script, so when some books like Shabda
Cayanika were first noted down in Bengali, then some top Dadas
capitalised on this and tried to twist the whole topic as being about
the Bengali language. Such is their style of thievery when in fact
Sanskrit has been written in so many Indian languages from Tamil to
Kannada to Hindi etc, but no one else tried to say that what Baba spoke
was exclusively about their language. No one else had such audacity.

* Baba’s emphasis on language holds universal appeal as He is
propagating AM ideology, thus He wants for all the languages of the
world to be expanded to best convey human thought and understanding.
This He has encouraged in so many discourses and talks like, ‘Expression
and Symbolisation’.

* Baba’s teaching of Sanskrit grew from the teaching of prefixes and
suffixes to a full linguistic, historical, social, and cultural survey
of Sanskrit and how it relates to today’s world based humanity– all so
that everyone could best understand His sublime ideals of Ananda Marga.

* And so many more points are coming.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace our special endeavour is to propagate what He spoke in
its original form and not any other side agenda like the Bangalisation
of AM. Because the very words which Guru spoke are mantra for us and
that alone can lead the humanity into the golden era.

Baba says, “Finally one must remember, Mantramu’lam’ Gururva’kyam.” (AV-6)

Namaskar
Sudhakar

Note 1: ONE EXAMPLE OF MANY

Here below in this below section from chapter 10 of Varna Vijiana, Baba
is explaining about the formation of so many languages, because in this
series of books Baba is again and again showing that since Sanskrit is
the mother of all languages, then naturally any complete discussion of
Sanskrit will involve numerous other languages as well.

Baba says, “In Ma’gadhii Pra’krta, as in Bengali, Oriya, Assamese,
Maethilii, Bhojpuri, Angika, Magahii, Chattrishgar’ii, Na’gpurii, etc.,
there is no difference between masculine, feminine and neuter genders in
the genitive case.” (VV, chapter 10)

This proves how Baba is talking about all the languages and indeed in
this book there are so many reference to Hebrew, Latin, French,
Japanese, English, and so many other languages.

***********************************************
Age of Marriage

Baba says, “The female body attains maturity at the age of eighteen years,
while the male physique attains maturity between twenty-two and twenty-six
years of age. No marriage should be performed below these years.” (TD-5)

Note: Baba’s above teaching is very concentrated and addresses multiple
issues. One of which is that because young parents are not adequately
mature and have been indulging and therefor misusing their undeveloped
bodies, their offspring may suffer from birth defects. This is a very
critical issue.

Here are further points to keep in mind.

1. When young married person start misusing their undeveloped organs,
then those organs may not function properly their entire whole life.

2. This may result in their progeny having lifelong health issues.

3. This is not just related with just first child but all their
children since their glands [i.e. of the parents] have been affected
permanently.

4. Those in this predicament should warn others – that is all they can
do. They cannot repair themselves. Those glandular defects are lifelong.

5. That is why in the west millions of parents are becoming sterile.
They have a strong longing to have child and to satisfy this longing
they adopt etc because they cannot procreate. This is mostly due to
indulgence at an early age.

6. Early indulgence leads to the problem. That is what Baba is
telling in the above teaching.

7. That is why there is a growing birth defects and instances in of
autism in countries where people indulge sexually at early ages. For
instance: About 120,000 babies (1 in 33) in the United States are
born each year with birth defects; and autism is the fastest-growing
developmental disability in that US at a 1,148% growth rate

8. So Baba’s above mandate is the order of the day. People should
not marry nor sexually indulge before the ages He has delineated in
His above teaching.
***********************************************

Read Full Post »

Which Style is Correct

Date: 02 Mar 2010 05:38:27 +0530
To: AM-GLOBAL
From: “Pandit_Sudhakar”
Subject: Which Style is Correct

Intro to PS: This following song is unique in its own special way. Here
Baba, in disguised fashion, is talking to the devotee and asking him
various questions.

“Caran’e a’j kiser dvidha’, shayan keno ka’nt’a’-bhara’…” (PS 627)

Purport:

O’ devotee, for whom are you deeply yearning and longing for? In this
state of dilemma, even your walking has gotten affected. In these late
hours of midnight, you do not have sleep in your eyes– just you remain
crying on the bed in someone’s longing. It is as though your bed is
filled with thorns, one sleepless night after another.

In whose love do you have such intoxication; why are your eyes
showering tears. The One whom you love, has He forgotten you? Is that
why you are crying in longing. Because of this, all these devotional
feelings have saturated in your heart, is that why you are sleepless.

O’ sadhaka, your situation is like one person who is floating in tears
due to the loss of the most precious jewel of his heart. You should
understand that in love these feelings are quite natural. Go on serving
and immerse yourself completely in that very work which He desires. For
whom you love, go on acting according to His direction.

O’ devotee, in whose longing is your heart so restless, such that your
eyes cannot sleep on this lonely night. To whom you love, He cannot keep
Himself away– because true love is mutual. He has to come to you…

== WHICH STYLE IS CORRECT ==

Namaskar,
The world over, people have different ways of pronouncing the same word.

Yet Baba gives great emphasis on which way is actually correct,
especially with respect to Sanskrit words – though certainly He has
commented on the proper pronunciation of words in French, English,
Hindi, Japanese, and so many other languages.

Within India, there are crucial differences in the way many Sanskrit
words are pronounced. This gap is greatest with respect to languages of
North India vs languages of South India.

The word r’si is one such word that is often contested. And in one
discourse, Baba clearly tells which style of pronunciation is correct –
the style of North India or that of South India. The answer to this
debate is presented in this letter.

Baba’s unique style of discourse and the inherent beauty of the Sanskrit
language are all discussed. Please read the below – get the answer to
the debate – and share your thoughts.

BABA’S UNIQUE DELIVERY

We have all experienced how Baba’s way of delivering discourses is
completely unique. Here I am not referring to the manner in which His
discourses often get published, but rather the way in which He gave it
originally.

In each discourse, Baba presents a totally new philosophy for humanity.
Yet to do that He had to use established constructs, in particular
language. He could not both present a new language and a new philosophy.
That would make things too difficult for us.

So He has used languages that were already established, including
Sanskrit. With that came outdated and misunderstandings about certain
words. Because our understanding, presentation, and usage of language is
not perfect.

Thus in nearly every discourse, Baba begins by clarifying what He means
by the words – often Sanskrit ones – which He is going to discuss. In
this way He would teach us the proper grammatical usage of a particular
word, its pronunciation, as well as the correct definition.

In was in this manner that Baba could then propound His revolutionary,
neo-humanistic philosophy. Without that it would have been impossible.

Thus His teachings on philology are critical to the proper understanding
of His divine discourses and sublime ideology.

In addition, so many of His discourses like, “The Acoustic Roots of the
Indo-Aryan Alphabet”, as well as His books like “Varna Vijiana”, “Varna
Vicitra” and the “Shabda Cayanika” series, place tremendous emphasis on
the importance of language.

Further proof that spelling and pronunciation are important is that He
has mandated that the Roman Sam’skrta alphabet be placed in the preface
of each and every AM book.

Thus, everyone on the path of AM – all who sincerely wish to understand
AM teachings – must pay heed to Baba’s guidelines on language, grammar,
and pronunciation.

Yet, even many Indian Dadas indulge in wrong pronunciation of certain
Sankrist words like r’si, and certainly outside of AM, the fake yoga
movement has begun butchering the Sam’skrta language.

Care should be taken as Baba gives great emphasis on its proper
pronunciation.

THE PRONUNCIATION ISSUE: R’SI

Now let us come to the debate at hand. What is the proper pronunciation
of the word r’si. In North India it is pronounced one way and in South
India it is pronounced a second way. Which one is correct.

In North India, Devanagari script is used to write Sanskrit, and most
often the word is correctly written as r’si, yet when translated into
English it is often written as rishi, and although it is written
correctly in Devanagari script, North Indians generally pronounce r’si
as the way in which they write it in English, rishi or really ris’i.
They pronounce the r as in the English words “rim” or “riddle”, and that
is not correct.

In South India, the Tamil script is often used to write Sanskrit, and
when South Indians speak the word r’si they often say it as rus’i. In
that case, the South Indians pronounce the r as in the English word,
“rule”, and that is not correct.

According to Baba, neither the North Indian style is correct nor the
South Indian style. Both are wrong. The irony is that both think that
they are correct and the other is wrong. But, according to Baba, neither
are correct.

BABA’S AUDIO FILE ON AM-GLOBAL BLOG

For the proper pronunciation of the word r’si, please listen to the
newly posted sound file on the AM-GLOBAL blog.

In that file, Baba points out the defects of both the North and South
Indian pronunciation styles, and gives the proper way. Anyone can listen
and get the correct answer.

There is also an English translation of the sound file for everyone’s
ease and convenience. Although Baba’s sound file is in Hindi, He does
employ a number of English words so non-Hindi speakers can get the sense
by listening to the sound file.

And most importantly, on that sound file, Baba gives the correct
pronunciation of r’si. And that is of interest to all – so everyone
should listen.

SIGNIFICANCE OF SOUND

The pronunciation of a word is of course related with its sound. And in
discourses like, “The Acoustic Roots of the Indo-Aryan Alphabet”, Baba
talks of the great import of sound – both with regards to language and
the development of the human mind.

Here Baba speaks in particular about how sound comes to be expressed by
human beings.

Baba says, “Every vibration in this universe has colour and sound. Every
vibration also represents a particular idea, and hence each idea has a
vibrational sound and vibrational colour….To externalize an idea one
has to apply physical energy (philosophically, this energy is called
indra). We can call this stage the first expression of the sound
tanma’tra…The vocal cord lies in the area of the vishuddha cakra. It
is the organ responsible for transforming abstract idea into vocal
expression…Even after an idea gets metamorphosed into language, if
there is the slightest defect in the uvula, vocal expression will be
disturbed.” (APH-8)

Note: “The uvula is the conic projection from the posterior edge of the
middle of the soft palate,The uvula plays a key role in the articulation
of the sound of the human voice to form the sounds of speech.” (Wikipedia)

Furthermore, in that discourse, Baba gives proof how sounds are linked
to different human vrttis, or propensities of mind. And there are so
many other significant revelations Baba makes in that discourse about
words, pronunciation and mind. It is a long discourse filled with
interesting points. We should all review this discourse regularly.

Suffice to say then that the sound or correct pronunciation of a word is
very important. This obviously also applies to the pronunciation of the
mantras used in our sadhana practice.

So we should all learn the proper pronunciation of the word r’si as well
as all the Sam’skrta words. By learning where to place the tongue and
how to angle it, one can speak Sam’skrit correctly. No one should get
discouraged and give up the hope that they can do it. Irregardless of
where one was born, everyone can learn the correct style of
pronunciation of Sam’skrta.

BEAUTY OF SANSKRIT

In our Ananda Marga, Sanskrit is used to propound our neo-humanistic
philosophy. Plus we use Sanskrit for all our names. Baba has also given
the idea that Sam’skrta is composed of very sweet sounds so people enjoy
hearing the Sam’skrta language. It creates a pleasant vibration in the mind.

All Indians use Sanskrit irregardless of which religion they follow even
Indians who are Christian. And now – with the immense popularity of yoga
– we are witnessing how around the globe Sanskrit is getting more and
more popular. So we should refine our understanding of this beautiful
and ancient language as it has great bearing on our modern world.

Baba says, “India is one and indivisible…Let Sam’skrta be the national
language, as this will provide equal opportunity to all.” (PNS-17)

Baba says “If Sam’skrta is used human unity will be encouraged and human
beings will move closer together… So you should encourage the study of
Sam’skrta.” (PNS-17)

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has given us all the teachings needed to create a
healthy human society. Nothing has been forgotten or overlooked – not
even the style of pronunciation of certain words.

Till now we often think we know the right way or pronunciation – but
often we are off the mark. Such is the case with both North and South
Indians with respect to the word, r’si.

Now, by Baba’s grace we can all learn the proper pronunciation and use
of r’si, as well as the entire Sanskrit language. This will help unite
our human family.

Namaskar,
Sudhakar

***************************************************
PROPER THINKING

Baba says, “Sadhakas should always maintain the spirit of prapatti
(surrender) and they will never develop any sort of pride in their
minds…’Whatever qualities I possess is all due to the His grace.
Parama Purusa is the Lord of everything; He is the machineman and I am
simply a machine’.” (31/05/87, AN-DMC)

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

Read Full Post »

Name of Your Baby

Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 07:12:16
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: “Pavitra” pwKlauss@springnet…
Subject: Name of Your Baby

Baba

“Ruper mela’y bose tumi arup ga’n shun’iye ja’o…” (PS 3331)

Purport:

O’ Formless One, O’ Divine Entity, You have situated Yourself in the
festival and grandeur of form. You have created Your advent in this
colourful world. You are playing Your flute– singing Your song for me.
By Your grace You have come emanating Your eternal call. Baba, bathing
Yourself in the ocean of form You resonate Your divine sound in my
heart. That is: by leaving Your eternal formless stance of Nirguna
Brahma, You graciously descend upon this earth as the Taraka Brahma and
come into the world of form. By Your grace, You fill the heart with
devotion and with the irresistible urge to get You. O’ my dearmost, You
have come into the world of form and showered Your grace by playing Your
eternal flute. Baba, Your sound– Your divine flute– resonates
eternally in animate and inanimate beings, in flora and fauna, in mobile
and immobile beings, everywhere. You saturate Your divine love in every
thought and in all expressions. Baba, You play Your flute and by Your
grace it vibrates in all atoms and in every molecule– in everything and
everywhere. O’ Parama Purus’a, You are the Na’dtanu of the ages, You are
beyond time; You are Ka’la’tiita. You are immutable. You remain in one
unaltered state in all times: past, present and future. Because of Your
immutable characteristics, You are not only beyond the bondage of time
(Ka’la’tiita) but also beyond the bondage of space (Desha’tiita) and
beyond the bondage of form. O’ Na’dtanu, O’ Parama Purusa, I do
sastaunga pranam at Your alter…

*Na’dtanu: This is one of the countless names that describes one of the
infinite attributions of Parama Purusa. Specifically Na’dtanu refers to
that Divine Entity who is the Lord of all music and dance. That is, the
One whose very body is made out of the na’da– the primordial sound– is
Himself the Lord of the dance.

== NAME OF YOUR BABY ==

Namaskar,
When Baba held DMCs in our Berlin Sector, then Baba Himself was
emphasizing the importance of Sanskrit names. Time and again He beautifully
explained the meaning of various names and on multiple occasions He also
corrected the then PA Dada Ramanandaji’s pronunciation of Sanskrit
names, or even changed the name itself to one having a spiritual meaning.

Surrounding this, one beautiful scene comes to mind.

STORY HOW BABA BLESSES AND CORRECTS HER SANSKRIT NAME

During one DMC we held our usual kaoshikii and tandava contests & when
Dada Ramanandaji called out the names of those involved then he
announced the name of one sister named Ama’vati.

Immediately Baba pointed out that this name meant ‘darkness’ or ‘new
moon’; and then and there in front of one and all Baba graciously told
that her name should be Jyotismati, meaning ‘divine effulgence’. In that
special way our sister took on this new name – one with a truly
spiritual meaning.

Certainly this was Baba’s blessing upon that sister and the society, and
the overall idea is that Baba gives great emphasis on the proper use of
Sanskrit names, both with respect to pronunciation and meaning.

NAMES ARE NOT JUST WORDS BUT SPIRITUAL REMINDERS

A name then is not just a word per se. It is an important reminder to
both the named and the person addressing that individual that we live in
a God-centered universe. This helps spiritualise one’s daily life
experience and reminds us of our Goal.

Thus not any name will do – names should be given based on this ideal.

(1) Choosing a name based on the sound of the word, or (2) issuing a
name that lacks a devotional meaning is not part of our AM system.

Yet, on occasion – or even more frequently – this has been known to happen.

When names are such an essential element of our life as sadhakas, we
should take the opportunity to carefully review this important topic.

USING SANSKRIT NAMES: 24 / 7

As we all know, Baba has placed tremendous emphasis on the use of
Sanskrit names. We are to use them in all circumstances – cent-per-cent
of the time.

Baba says, “At the time of initiation or shortly afterwards, those who do
not have a Sanskrit name should be given one by the A’carya.” (CC-I, p.6,
1995 Ed.)

Baba says, “The Sanskrit name should be used in all worldly dealings.”
(CC-I p. 7, 1995 Ed.)

That is why in our Marga, we all receive a Sanskrit name as soon as we
enter AM and that name should be used pervasively, in all aspects of our
life.

Unfortunately quite commonly, outside of India, many use their Sanskrit
name only at the time of dharmacakra or only when talking to margiis
etc. In their daily or professional life, or even when communicating
with their spouse, they may fail to use their Sanskrit name. This is one
point for us all to be careful about.

NOT ALL SANSKRIT NAMES ARE SPIRITUAL

At the same time we must be aware that not every Sanskrit name is
appropriate, as depicted in the above story of that DMC.

To ensure proper Sanskrit names are given, Baba has specifically
detailed names that are of spiritual value. Every acarya has this list /
booklet. Those are the names that are to be used in our Ananda Marga at
the time of initiation. But it does not always happen like that.

Of course, a large majority of the names in Sanskrit are “good” or
“acceptable” for use in AM. By “good” or “acceptable”, we mean that that
Sanskrit name directly refers refers to Parama Purusa Himself or one of
His divine qualities.

Names like Purusottama (Cosmic Nucleus), Liila (His Divine Play), Kpra
Devii (Personification of His Divine Grace) and Divyamurti (Embodiment
of God) are ideal in that they remind us of the presence of Parama Purusa.

However, there are many Sanskrit names that fail miserably in this regard.

Names like Brinjal (eggplant) as well as other Sanskrit names meaning
rice, chili, and other food items are not our ideal. Yet these Sankrit
names are also used in the general society and on occasion sneak into
our Marga.

Plus various names such as the highly popular surname Singha, meaning
lion, are based on the animals. Yet we know that according to the cycle
of brahmacakra, human life is the veritable movement away from our baser
animalistic vrittis towards our inherent sublime nature, i.e. life
divine. So there is no value – rather it is detrimental – to have a
Sanskrit name that refers to an animal. This is also a point of caution.

Finally, there are some Sanskrit names like Khendi and Puddan, which do
not mean something very glorified. And there are so many
other examples. Then there is the so-called Sanskrit name, Pheku,
meaning garbage. That also is obviously not up to the requisite standard.

In addition, in India, they’ve begun giving Sanskrit names that are
actually verbs or adjectives, not nouns. One such name is Chalati which
is a verb meaning “to go”.

People choose such names because they feel they are unique. That is
the new trend.

Whether one is born inside or outside of India, regardless of our local
traditions etc, we should ensure that our Sanskrit names are of proper
meaning. If you have any question, consult your local acarya.

NICKNAMES

Another critical facet of this discussion is the use of nicknames. All
too often our family members or close friends give us a nickname.
Normally we are given these names when we are very young, such as when
we are 4 or 5 years old.

You have all heard them. Names like Pinky, Rinky, Tee-tee, Lulu, Bessy,
Beansie etc. Often these names rhyme with our given name or are given
for just some silly reason, albeit with good intention.

Actually, when I was in India, I was surprised to see how each family
member often has a non-spiritual nickname which all the other family
members call them. In that way, they pass the bulk of the life being
called a name that has virtually no sense and zero spiritual import.

Wherever we live, we should all be wary and conscious of the use of
nicknames – they should not replace our given Sanskrit names.

KUMAR AND DEVA

Finally, there are two other common words to discuss associated with
naming. The first is Kumar and the second is Deva.

At present, many in AM seem to attach Kumar to their name. Names like
Devesh Kumar, Krsna Kumar, Jayanta Kumar, Chandranath Kumar and the like
are quite common.

Yet Kumar (kaoma’ra) refers to that state of life when one is immature.

Baba says, “Childhood, or kaoma’ra.” (SS-21)

In those early years of life, children needlessly break and destroy
their toys for no apparent reason and constantly switch from one task to
the next, unable to concentrate on anything for any period of time. That
is what kaomara means: the life of a child when all kinds of silly or
senseless things are done.

Here I am not trying to criticise children – they have their natural
dharma. Childhood is part of the growing process. Only the point is that
we should not attach that idea or identity with our Sanskrit name by
adding the suffix Kumar. That is not our AM system – that is some folk
manner from the traditions of old.

If we wish to append any word to our Sanskrit name then that name should
be Deva.

Baba says, “Now, the word “deva” comes from the root word “div”. “Div”
means “a divine existence”. So “deva” means “a divine existence”.” (AV-3)

Baba says, “The word deva should be suffixed to the name. Every person
is at liberty to use his/her own surname, but the more the usage of deva
as a title, the better it is.” (CC-1)

Thus we should link our Sanskrit names with Deva, not Kumar.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace when a proper Sanskrit name is given that that brings
all kinds of beauty in life: Both to the individual and the society. It
reminds of the eternal presence of Parama Purusa and keeps us
ever-focused on the divine nature of human life.

When we seek names for our own children we should keep in mind all of
the above. Then their names will serve them well for this life.

Those who are devotees can easily understand all these points – others
may not.

We should be vigilant to ensure that only proper Sanskrit names are used
in our units and that we use these Sanskrit names in all circumstances
and conditions.

Baba says “If Sam’skrta is used human unity will be encouraged and human
beings will move closer together.” (PNS-17)

Baba says, “Today not even the Pacific Ocean between Asia and America is
difficult to cross. The people of Asia and America are touching each
other’s minds and have learned to accept each other sympathetically as
their own. Europe, Africa, Australia, Mercury, Jupiter, the stars, the
comets, the constellations – none of them is alien to the other, none is
distant from another. Gradually everyone has begun to realise the vibration
of the One Integral Mind.” (AFPS-1)

Namaskar,
Pavitra

Note: WHY SHYNESS TO USE SANSKRIT NAMES IN THE WEST

Baba tells in SS part III that those who are not established on the path
of spirituality are shy to practice in front of others.

Those who lack a deeper sense of deep devotion feel shy to reveal
themselves as an Ananda Margiis, and most of the time they do not like
to tell or use their own Sanskrit name – or the Sanskrit names of others.

But this is only because of their weakness of the mind and lack of
proper moral strength. So we should not be affected by this. Rather we
should instill within that person the requisite strength, courage, and
devotional confidence to move ahead in the right way.

In Subhasita Samgraha part 3, Baba explains that those who suffer from such
a weakness of mind due to materialism or other negative philosophies
suffer from such psychic complexes.

Baba says, “Those who are reared in the cradle of materialistic ideologies,
feel shy or ashamed at first to sit in meditation in the presence of
others.” (SS pt 3, p.86)

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One Should Always Remember

Baba says, “However little one’s capacity might be, if one constantly
remembers that Parama Purus’a is always with him, that they are in the
closest contact with Parama Purus’a, they will be able to do everything.
They are not as small as they think themselves to be. And as long as
they remember this closest association with Him, they can do much more
than ordinary human beings. When this idea becomes permanently
established in their minds, they become great. This is why no one should
be disappointed or depressed in any circumstances; let everyone
constantly perform great deeds, remembering that the flow of their
capacity is coming from Parama Purus’a, and thus they can do
everything.” (AFPS-3, p.62)

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