Sentient Environment

Date: 07 Jan 2012 22:19:34 -0000
From: “Surya Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Sentient Environment

Baba

“Bha’loba’so yadi tave eso priyatama diiner e kut’iire…” (P.S. 2619)

Purport:

O’ my dearmost Baba, if You really love me then please come to the hut of this lowly person. I want to make You listen to my love songs up to Your full heart’s content; that’s why in my mental viina I have practiced many tunes and melodies for You.

Baba, I do not have any knowledge or intellect. Nor do I have any virtue, name & fame, or the weight of those things. I have only one thing: Love for You in my mind. My whole heart is completely filled with love for You. And by offering that love I will satisfy You, by Your grace.

Baba, I do not have any prestige nor do I get any respect or honor. None of these do I have. Nor do I have such devotion that I feel my ego getting wounded by Your not coming. Baba, I have only gratitude in my heart for all those things which You have graciously bestowed upon me. Please shower me in Your ahetuki krpa.

Baba, I know in my heart that You love me, but if You really love me then please come close in my heart. For You I have prepared and decorated my mind in Guru cakra. Baba, please grace me by coming close…

== SENTIENT ENVIRONMENT CREATED BY PAINCAVATI ==

Namaskar,
Creating a sentient environment for our spiritual-cum-devotional pracitices is critical for every Ananda Margii. This letter gives some of Baba’s unique guidelines in this regard.

ALL ARE ANANDA MARGIIS

We all are Ananda Margiis. Innocently one can ask the question that, ‘We are margiis but many are Wts also, so what about them?’. And the answer is very simple. Wts, acaryas, Lft’s, kapalika, avadhuta or purodha, all are Margii. Because margii means those who are following Ananda Marg ideology and the same time they have accepted their Guru as Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji.

We see in our Supreme Command which is always repeated after dharmacakra, that the term Ananda Margii has been used. And that term is not only limited to family margiis alone. Plus we all know that the Supreme Command is the most significant guideline. That is why it is repeated after each and every dharmacakra. With this repetition it reminds us that we are all Ananda Margiis– irrespective of social status like Acarya, Avadhuta or Purodha.

So if we see the critical definition of Ananda Margii then we will reach the conclusion that Ananda Margii means those who are adhering to the path of bliss. In this material world people are searching for bliss. But artha does not have the capacity to quench the infinite human thirst. That is why Baba has brought us onto the path of AM and shown us the proper way with various guidelines.

NOW TO THE POINT OF SADHANA

Many points have been discussed in relation with better and proper sadhana. And here I want to add one new point in that series. It is related with sentient environment, freshness of air, and that type of atmosphere which is conducive for sadhana because it invites positive microvita.

In one of His discourses, Baba has given the guideline about the paincavati– Five sacred trees. In the ancient history of India when rishis were maintaining their spiritual ashram, then their ashram was fully focused on spiritual meditation. And they found that these sacred trees were highly beneficial for creating a positive environment for sadhana. That is why these paincavati were quite common. So in the important site of their ashram where those yogis were doing sadhana, they were planting those trees by their sadhana pitha.

Of course those days there was not a lot of scientific development but because of their sadhana they were able to reach to the conclusion by their higher senses about this theory of paincavati. And Baba has appreciated their analysis and conclusion.

No doubt today in those ashrams everything has gotten polluted because in place of sadhana only dogma is occupying the place. But now this is the time when Baba has given this technique to us for making a better environment in our own meditation place.

HOW TO UTILISE IN COLDER CLIMATES

The only question then is that in the cold countries how is it possible to plant those trees because they are originally from tropical areas. And not exactly the same, but a similar problem is there for those who are living in crowded cities– due to a scarcity of open space, planting big, big trees may not be possible.

In this situation though, already science has solved the issue. Because nowadays these plants can be kept as bonsai. You may know even this gigantic banyan tree can be kept in one small plate and its height will be 12 inches maximum. And it will have its leaves and flowers and fruits, everything.

So around the place of doing sadhana keeping such things will be beautiful. Just 5 trays are needed in the sadhana room where they can be kept. And in cold countries arranging such things is not very, very difficult. And it can be kept inside the room. The temperature which is conducive for humans, that same temperature these plants also like. So their growth and survival will not be problematic and the outcome will be very positive, abundant. They will invite positive microvita and not only sadhana but whole vibration of the house will be charged. About these five sacred trees (paincavati) Baba’s guideline is significant.

BABA’S GUIDELINE

BABA says, “The air of the margosa tree destroys the harmful effects of bacteria. It can also fight against negative microvita. This is the reason why margosa is also recognised as one of the five sacred trees (paincavati). In olden days, people liked to perform spiritual practices sitting in an environment free from the pernicious effects of disease and germs. That is why they would plant paincavati — nimba’ (margosa / neem), bilva (wood apple), bhalmali (silk cotton tree), bat (banyan indica) and ashvatha (Indian fig tree) — in and around the place of meditation or spiritual practice. Some people of course use a’mlakii’ (wood sorrel) as a substitute plant. In paincavati maha’nimba may be planted instead of ordinary margosa.” (Microvita Nutshell, p.9)

Namaskar,
Surya

Note 1: Artha vs. Paramartha’

Baba says, “Suppose a man has no clothes and feels cold. Having no money he cannot afford to buy clothes and having no food, he feels hungry. If he gets some money he can remove his hunger by procuring food and thus he can remove his afflictions. Thus we say that Artha is that which removes afflictions. People buy food, clothes,etc. with money and so money in Sam’skrta is called Artha. But it should be remembered that money is only Artha and not Paramartha’, for Paramartha’ means “that which removes one’s afflictions forever”–once the afflictions are gone they will never return. Suppose we buy food with money today; tomorrow we will again feel the pangs of hunger. So money is Artha, not Paramartha’. Paramartha’ is that which brings permanent cessa tion from the triple afflictions–physical, mental and spiritual.” (‘Importance of Society’)

Note 2: Bonsai = About this please ask your friends, or your local plant nursery, plant house or tree farm, or garden center, as well as books and literature. I think everyone may be aware that in Madhu Malainca (Lake Gardens) Baba had so many such trees.

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How Meaningful

Baba says, “A jiiva is manifested out of Paramashiva as a jiiva in human body– or rather, simultaneously in the Cosmic Body and in a human body. Each and every microcosmic structure is like a universe. Hence the yoga of scriptures say, Traelokye ya’ni bhu’ta’ni ta’ni dehatah– ‘Whatever exists in the universe exists in your small structure as well.” (Discourses on Krsna & the Giita, p.19)
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Who Can Think This Is…

Date: Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:12:49 +0530
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: “Priyanath C Mittra”
Subject: Who Can Think This Is…

Baba

“Prabhu toma’r liila’ apa’r, buddhite ke bujhite pa’re…” (PS 507)

Purport:

O’ Prabhu, Your divine liila is beyond all human comprehension. Merely relying upon one’s own minute intellect, who can understand Your vast cosmic liila– no one. Baba, You are present in form as well as in the unexpressed universe. You reside within everything and You are also surrounding each and every one. Baba, You are infinite.
Baba, by Your grace You are present in the depths of the deep blue ocean as well as in the whiteish fog of the tall mountain peaks. Whereever I look or see and even in the places that I cannot see, everything resides within Your mind.
Baba, You are present in the poreless stone and lac and You are also present in the revolving seasons. You are in the mobile as well as immobile entities; You are everywhere. Baba, whatever I think and even what I do not think, everything resides within Your mind. Baba, You are so vast.
Baba, Your liila is fathomless; I long for Your causeless grace; Baba, I want Your shelter, please grace me…

== WHO CAN THINK THIS IS A TRUE ANANDA VANII ==

PRESENT AND PAST HISTORY OF FAKE ANANDA VANIIS

Namaskar,
One by one we are undoing and getting rid of the dogmas which have hounded our Marga since 1990. Things are most definitely moving in a positive direction. As we all become more ideologicall aware and set Baba’s ideal as the gold-bar standard, then naturally dogmas that certain people draggged into the Marga or invented by themselves will be dismantled.

SPECIALITY OF ORIGINAL VANIIS

We all know that the original and true Ananda Vaniis are golden bullets of inspiration that inspire us to move ahead, overcome all obstacles, and lead the humanity into the new crimson dawn. So Baba’s Ananda Vaniis are truly unique.

Even then some “leaders” are thinking that they can create their own false versions– and have come up with a tainted formula for doing so.

IS SIZE THE ONLY FACTOR?

Some may be thinking that:’Because Ananda Vaniis are small, since they are just one or two paragraphs, so therefore to make one new Ananda Vanii, just take one Baba’s discourse and select one tiny paragraph out of that. And that will be an “Ananda Vanii”.’

A few may be thinking in this above distorted manner.

And indeed if anybody sees superficially then they will say that ‘Ok, true Ananda Vaniis are generally one or sometimes two paragraphs. So the ruling group or subgroup did fine by collecting some excerpts or quotations from Baba’s long discourses. So on the basis of size, their fake Ananda Vanii is ok.’ This is just one misguided outlook.

So some may get confused because the the length of the true Ananda Vaniis and the length of the fake Ananda Vaniis is the same. That is to say, the length of Baba’s true Ananda Vaniis are one or two paragraphs, and the random pre-published lines that group leaders select for Fake Ananda Vaniis is one or two paragraphs. And then they stick on the name– Ananda Vanii– when in fact what they are sending out is just a Fake Ananda Vanii.

Here the main idea is that on the point of length or the counting of words, certain quotes and true Ananda Vaniis may be similar. But length is not the criteria to evaluate this situation. If you start valuing this by its length, then that will be a foolish approach.

A FEW COLORFUL EXAMPLES

For example, suppose, you chop the trunk of the elephant and you start calling it a horse, who can believe that? Or, suppose you chop from the legs of the camel and then start calling it a cow, just because both are the same size. This type of logic, only babies or crazy people can accept. Not anyone else.

Or take the example of a car. Suppose you remove two wheels from that car, and with the remaining two wheels you proclaim that “This car is now a motorcycle. Because it has only two wheels. As, a motorbike has also two wheels and now this car only two — so it is now a motorcycle.” All this type of reasoning is nonsense.

LENGTH NOT THE ONLY CRITERIA

Surely this approach will be a foolish approach if anybody does the above. Just as having two wheels is not the only criteria of a motorbike, similarly in the true Ananda Vanii, its length is not its only criteria. It has many more things such as orginality, completeness, and so much more which we never find in those Fake Ananda Vaniis which are mere selections from a bigger discourse. Baba designated the true Ananda Vanii as something unique– as “Ananda Vanii”. So, this is unparalleled.

FAKE ANANDA VANII IS BORN

It is known that when Sarvatmanandaji was initially struggling to find out some formula to create his fake Ananda Vaniis, then he finally devised his plan & he called a CC meeting in order to generate group support.

And during the CC meeting they were all were thinking of a solution to continue the tradition of Ananda Vanii. After long discussion, then one great idea was put forth by one of Sarvatmanandji’s trusted pawns. He told, “Don’t worry. Here is a unique idea to create fake Ananda Vaniis. Because the length of Ananda Vanii is small, one or two paragraphs. So take Baba’s discourse. Select one or two paragraphs. And the length of this new paragraph is the same as that of real Ananda Vaniis. And then just call this new para as ‘Ananda Vanii’.”

Listening this, all the CC Purodhas clapped and accepted this idea. And since then, this selection of a few paragraphs from Baba’s discourses and passing to margiis as a new Ananda Vanii of “Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiiji” of every year, is coming.

And other groups have since adopted this same model of Fake Ananda Vaniis. So now multiple fake Ananda Vaniis are being presented each time. This is the ongoing drama by such group and sub-group leaders.

REALISING IT IS FAKE

Of course now after critical analysis margiis are realizing that (A) Ananda Vaniis and (B) certain quotes of the discourses, are two different things, not one.

1) Baba’s original Ananda Vaniis are unique teachings not repeated from earlier discourses;
2) Baba’s original Ananda Vaniis are complete unto themselves; they are not part of a greater chapter;
3) Baba’s original Ananda Vaniis were a special message both for that’moment as well as for eternal time; only Parama Purusa Himself can give such a teaching;
4) Baba’s original Ananda Vaniis are self-contained truths;
5) Baba’s original Ananda Vaniis were hand-written Parama Purusa Himself.

In contrast, a quoted passage or an excerpt from a discourse does not fulfill the above stipulations that comprise an Ananda Vanii.

In other words we can say, the current formula to produce fake Ananda Vaniis is similar to these above noted animal examples. Take some discourse and select one or two paragraphs and put the title “Ananda Vanii” and date it ‘1st January, such-and-such year’. And – “Here it is, ready. New Ananda Vanii”. How easy it is.

But those who are rational margiis and WTs, they understand that taking some paragraphs of Baba’s discourse is just one quote. Neither it is a full discourse, nor is it as pointed and conclusive as a true Ananda Vanii. So at any cost, Baba’s quote cannot be called as “Baba’s Ananda Vanii”. And they cannot be collected together with the “Ananda Vanii Samgraha” book.

WILL BE REJECTED BY FUTURE ANANDA MARGIIS

Altogether we have 74 true Ananda Vaniis that are of eternal value. It is from this original collective given by Baba Himself that we should select an Ananda Vanii. Baba would handwrite those Ananda Vaniis on a piece of paper. They are totally unique

So we have to think. Carrying dogma is not good. Ultimately it will be thrown out by future Ananda Margiis. Because Baba says, “Dogma no more no more”.

Here following is this divine teaching of Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. If we follow this, then no problem will remain on our path of forward movement as the Fake Ananda Vaniis and other dogmas will be gone

Baba says, “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.” (AV 8, p.51)

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s infinite grace and with the strength of many devoted margiis and wts our Marga is going to rise up tall. None should think that our AM will be forever sunk in groupism & dogma. It is sure that soon it will be dharma exemplified.

Baba says, “Under no circumstances should human beings be pessimistic. That is why I am always an incorrigible optimist, because I know that optimism is life.” (AFPS-3)

Namaskar,
Priyanath

Note 1: CANNOT CREATE FAKE SUPREME COMMAND

Just as we cannot create a Fake Supreme Command from a few paragraphs of His discourses. In the same way, we do not have the right to create some fake Ananda Vaniis.

Note 2: GREATNESS OF TRUE ANANDA VANIIS

True Ananda Vaniis are unparalleled, full of spirit, and they give the clarion call of marching song and victory. So that is the greatness of Ananda Vanii.

Note 3: FIGHTING SPIRIT OF VANIIS

In the real Ananda Vaniis of Baba, He is inspiring strong fighting tendency. To overcome injustice and exploitation in the society. But the so-called Ananda Vaniis since 1991 never deal on this societal point. Or if they do, it is directed towards fighting against the opposite group, when Baba’s idea is that we should not fight amongst ourselves, but rather against dogma– i.e. against dogmas like Fake Ananda Vaniis.

Note 4: SOURCE OF INSPIRATION

We must be alert. We should take it seriously that in the name of Ananda Vanii, certain groupist factions are trying to mislead margiis. To avert and fix the situation of this current Ananda Vanii problem, we have to depend on the real original treasure of true Ananda Vaniis. Such true Ananda Vaniis are the eternal source of our inspiration.

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Negative Teacher

Baba says, “Karna’s teacher was Parasurama. One day Parasurama and Karna were engaged in a conversation. Parasurama for some reason or other was tired, and he fell asleep, laying his head on Karna’s lap. At that moment a deadly insect gave a sharp bite to Karna’s thigh, and it started bleeding profusely. Karna was in great pain, no doubt, but he neither made any sound nor moved his legs even in the slightest, lest it should disturb the sleep of his guru…Later, when Parasurama woke up, he wanted to know why there was so much blood. Karna said, ‘This bleeding is due to the biting of a deadly insect on my thigh.’ Parasurama asked him, ‘Then why didn’t you make any sound, or move your legs, or even wake me up ?’ Karna said in reply ‘I didn’t do all those things because it would have disturbed your sleep. To disturb my guru’s sleep would be a sacrilege on my part. Hence I refrained from doing anything like that.’ Then Parasurama said to him, ‘Since you have so much power to endure pain, certainly you were not born in a vipra family.’ Parasurama was under the mistaken impression that Karna was a vipra by birth…’So you must have been born in a Non-Brahmin Family’ said Parasurama.” (MHB, p.62-3)

Note 1: In the above teaching it is clear that the teaching of Parasurama was inappropriate and sinful. Because he was selecting his students on the basis of caste. A proper teacher never commits such sin. On this silly ground, Parasurama cursed Karna and kicked him out from the ashram.

Note 2: Similar sinful things are going on in our present AM society. If any WT is not an ardent follower of a particular group then they will not get kapalik sadhana or vishesh yoga from those groupist leaders. Such “leaders” who are depriving others of their spiritual rights are sinners.
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Atma’ Kii Diivali

Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:48:29 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Atma’ Kii Diivali
From: Girish Deva

Baba

“A’lokojval ei sandhya’y…” (PS 1894)

Purport:

Baba, by Your grace, this effulgent Diipa’vali evening has been lit by the lamp of Your divine love. With the sweetness of Your mind, You are that Divine Personality who has graciously removed all the blemishes and defects from my mental temple. By Your grace, You have made me clean and pure. O’ Eternal One, who is this Vast Entity who has graced me and appeared in my mental sky.

O’ Baba, the planets and stars have lit the lamp for You; by Your grace their hearts are filled with overflowing love for You. Baba You are so magnificent. By seeing Your infinite, divine grandeur, even this great, silver-coloured galaxy has become spellbound & awestruck. Baba, by Your grace You go on dancing and You go on floating in my oversurging heart, which You Yourself have illumined.

Baba, by Your grace I have longed for You for hundreds of lives. I have yearned for You through countless cycles of life & death; and by Your grace I have gotten new life again and again– always longing for You. Baba, I long for Your love in each and every fraction of my heart. By Your grace my mind is filled with the deep attraction of Your love. Baba, You have filled my entire being with the light of devotion. By Your causeless grace, the river of my mental longing is overflowing with Your divine love.

O’ Divine Entity, O’ Parama Purusa, O’ Baba, today You have graced me by coming in my heart on this resplendent night of Diipavali …

== “A’TMA’ KII DIIVALI ==

Note: The great festival of Diipavali is arriving soon: Wednesday, October 26, 2011.

Namaskar & Happy Diipa’vali!!

On the eve this wonderful occasion of Diivali or Diipavali, may we all rejoice and celebrate both the social & devotional aspects of this highly significant and spiritual occasion. After all this is one of our recognised AM festivals which is designed to bring a renewal and rejuvenation throughout one’s entire existence.

MANY WORSHIPERS OUTSIDE AM ALSO CELEBRATE

Of course Diipa’vali is not just a day celebrated in Ananda Marga. Throughout the vastness of tantric society, Diipa’vali is recognised as a highly meaningful occasion. Estimates are that upwards of 900 million to 1.4 billion people celebrate Diivali.

Whether one is a vidya tantric or an avidya tantric, whether one is an idol worshipper or one engages in prayer, whatever type of sadhana one does, Diipa’vali is the day when
all sincerely engage in their selected practice. On this occasion, one does more sadhana– whatever type that may be.

At the same time, many materialistic and dogmatic people display fireworks in the external arena; that is also one aspect of this event. Of course in AM, we do not support the use of fireworks – the reasons of which are outlined in note 3 at the end of this letter. Instead we might use eco-friendly, electric lamps – if one has the desire to celebrate in this manner.

After all ‘diip’ means ‘light’ or ‘lamp’ and Diipa’vali is that occasion which is a festival of lights. And many come forward in various ways to celebrate. It is a widely recognised occasion. Y

Of course in our Ananda Marga we have our own special, dharmic understanding of this great festival. And here below Baba sweetly describes the inner significance of Diipa’vali.

BABA’S SPECIAL DESCRIPTION OF DIIPA’VALI

As we all know in Caryacarya part 1 Baba neatly outlines all our AM festivals. Plus in various other discourses Baba also talks extensively about so many of these various festivals. And that is the case with Diipa’vali also.

Before we move ahead any further it should be noted that there are various different spellings of this occasion, depending on the language and area etc. Suffice to say here that ‘Diipavali’, ‘Diivali’, ‘Diipa’vali’ and ‘Deewali’ etc all refer to the same wonderful festival.

And in His June 1990 DMC discourse, ‘The Cult of Spirituality– The Cult of Pinnacled Order’, Baba makes special mention of this event.

In this discourse Baba explains how this festival known as Diipa’vali is linked with the enlightenment of the soul. That is the great significance of this day.

Hence Diipa’vali is related with spiritual effulgence, sentient thought, and all psycho-spiritual ideas that are linked with light: Igniting the lamp of love for Parama Purusa.

Here below is the original Hindi from this discourse. For those with the English editions of this book– “Yoga Psychology”– this section comes on page 136 of the 1991 edition and on page 174 of the 1998 edition. It directly follows the two line Sanskrit shloka, “Phalis’yatiiti vishva’sah…”. Unfortunately in both of these English editions, the proper translation of the original Hindi could not be given.

Here then is the original Hindi followed by the correct English translation:

Man ka’ jo andhaka’r hai usko hat’a’na’ hae.
(The darkness of the mind should be removed.)

Esa’ nahin kahana’ hai ki ghar-ghar men diivali,
mere ghar men andhera’.
(‘In each and every house there is a festival of light,
yet my home is dark’, one should not say like this.)

Ghar men bhii diiva’lii honi ca’hiye.
(There should be diivali in the home)

Aor ye hae a’tma’ kii diivali.
(And it is the diivali of the atma’)

According to Baba’s above DMC discourse, Diipa’vali is the idea of cultivating that inner spiritual yearning for Parama Purusa, thereby illuminating one’s entire existence with the sweet flow of spirituality. That is, infusing one’s soul with the great, devotional love of Parama Purusa.

HOW WE SHOULD CELEBRATE

Of course abiding by the Supreme Command, each and every Ananda Margii does sadhana twice a day, at minimum. So it is our regular habit and regular practice to illumine our minds and hearts with that deeply spiritual of flow. This is Baba’s grace and His great gift to all Ananda Margiis.

So when the day of Diipa’vali arrives then what are we to do. We are to dedicate even more time to our devotional practices of sadhana and kiirtan– enabling our existence to better reflect and capture the infinite love of Parama Purusa. By Baba’s divine grace may we all pass this occasion in this way.

And of course we may partake in any festival program as organised in our local units, as outlined in Caryacarya.

BABA’S BLESSING

On this wonderful festival of Diipa’vali, let us once again recall Baba’s great boon upon all Ananda Margiis.

Baba says, “You should remember why You have been born. Following the path of devotion, you will have to ultimately reach Parama Purusa.” (YP, ’91 Edn, p.140)

Namaskar,
Giriish

Note 1: DISCOURSE NEEDS TO BE CORRECTED

Both the 1991 and the 1998 printed editions of Baba’s famous 1990 DMC discourse, ‘The Cult of Spirituality– The Cult of Pinnacled Order’, carry the wrong translation of the original Hindi lines. In English that paragraph begins and ends in the following way:

“In Sam’skrta, gu means ‘darkness’…
there should not be a festival of lights…of the soul.”

If compared with the original Hindi lines as translated in the main part of this posting, it is apparent that there are various mistakes and omissions in the English translation of this important paragraph. That is not to say that the idea has been totally misconstrued. But, we cannot say it is a proper translation of Baba’s words either. That is why both the grammar and the word selection in the English editions needs to be redone according to Baba’s original spoken discourse. As this is a DMC discourse, it was given using a mixture of the three languages (Bengali, English, and Hindi) but the special section about Diipa’vali was uniquely given in Hindi only. And the English translations should be made to reflect Baba’s original words.

Note 2: BABA’S PRABHAT SAMGIITA ABOUT DIIPA’VALI

Here is one of several of Baba’s divine songs about Diipa’vali.

“Diipa’valii sa’ja’yechi prabhu…” (PS #63)

‘Baba, my Beloved, by Your divine grace I have arranged a row of lamps in Your reception. Please grace me and come inside my heart always with newer and new form and dress. Please come inside my heart with Your gentle footsteps. Please come inside my mind with more song and dance. Baba by Your grace please radiate Your sweet and tender smile– illumine my entire existence. Baba, by Your causeless grace please come in my world of ideation with rhythm and new effulgence–exuding Your charming vibration…’

Note 3: WHY WE DON’T LIGHT FIRECRACKERS

There are a variety of reasons why we do not support the lighting of fireworks during our AM festivals or anytime.

1. Fireworks / Firecrackers are costly and a waste of money;
2. Fireworks / Firecrackers are dangerous can bring bodily harm;
3. Fireworks / Firecrackers create a huge amount of pollution

This below letter details some of the dangers and pollution issues related with fireworks:

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/07/deadly-practice.html

This Baba story sheds light on why firecrackers are a waste.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/10/baba-story-warning-about-firecrackers.html

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The Way Baba Prepared for Struggle

Date: 09 Sep 2011 21:07:45 -0000
From: “K Lingappa Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: The Way Baba Prepared for Struggle

Baba

== THE WAY BABA PREPARED FOR STRUGGLE ==

Namaskar,
We know, and Baba has told us again and again, that life is not always smooth. One’s progress and movement is systaltic in nature – up and down. So there will always be highs and lows. Everyone will experience such patterns in their life.

This below Baba story is not just the recounting of a very devotional and tantric period in our AM history, but also a practical method for how we are to proceed in day to day life.

THOSE DAYS IN 1971 IN PATNA

Those pre-emergency days in 1971 in Patna, Baba was vigorously preparing everyone for the difficulties that lay ahead. He was teaching so many do’s and don’ts and then checking those things as only a Sadguru can. The scene was both riveting and exciting, as well as full of love and bliss.

Baba, of course, did not say openly that the whole world would turn on Ananda Marga and that we would all be persecuted and put in jail. Only He hinted that there will be a time when the number of margiis will be few and Ananda Margiis will not be accepted etc. Baba was also telling margiis to start stocking extra food in the homes, schools, and jagrtis.

Hearing this though, no one was worried. We all knew that Baba was the Parama Purusa and we rightly felt that nothing could harm us. We heard Baba’s gentle warnings about the future but at the same time we did not really listen.

It is just like if the weather is perfect outside – the sun is shining, there is a gentle breeze, and there is not a cloud in the sky – then if someone says that a cyclone is coming, few, if any, will take it seriously.

Same was the case with us back in 1971. Baba was there and that was enough. We could not think that such difficult days were coming. Trouble was around no doubt, but so was He and that was enough to satisfy us and think that everything would be fine.

HOW BABA LOVINGLY PREPARED US

In the Jamalpur days, Baba graciously gave yama and niyama for our conduct and dealing – for our betterment. In that phase He, of course, also delivered so many philosophical gems like Elementary Philosophy, Idea and Ideology, Ananda Sutram, and so much more. Our do’s and don’ts in personal life though were essentially limited to yama and niyama.

Around 1971, Baba began systematically giving so many teachings related with our personal dealing and way of living – most notably 16 Points. Prior to that some wholetimers were still drinking tea etc, but in 1971 all that stopped.

No doubt, prior to 1971, some had gotten certain practices from Yogic Treatments so a few were doing fasting on occasion and / or wearing laungota etc. But in 1971, those practices and so many more became pervasive in our Marga and were made mandatory via 16 Points and other codes of conduct.

Many may remember that before 1971, in order to have Baba’s darshan, then VSS and in-charges would ensure all had perfectly memorized the Supreme Command. One had to repeat it perfectly either in Hindi, Bengali, or English. Then and only then would they be allowed to enter the darshan hall or room.

But in 1971, that changed. Then everyone had to perfectly recite 16 Points in their exact order. That time Baba also began delivering so many discourses on various aspects of Sixteen Points.

SOME BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Thus it was in Patna that Baba graciously first checked our Sixteen Points in so many different ways to ensure that we were all moving and growing properly on the path. Reciting the mere list of 16 Points was not all that was expected – we also had to follow.

It went something like this.

In the 2nd half of 1971 after shifting the office from Ranchi to Patna due to extreme social tension and unrest, we would regularly arrive – almost daily – at Baba’s Quarters or the jagrti for darshan.

AM was still growing at a good clip, but not at the booming rate as months earlier because the government and newspapers were releasing and printing so much false propaganda about Baba and the Marga.

In that dramatic era, we would all file in to see Baba and when there were 20 or 30 of us, then He would graciously take His seat and we would all be inside the walled Patna compound seated in an open area focused on Him. It was all quite beautiful and charming.

And as I say, those were the days when Baba has strictly checking 16 Points as He was well aware that the Emergency was looming eerily on the horizon.

BABA’S SPECIAL WAY OF CHECKING

In His divine manner, Baba would look around at the margiis present and openly ask us about our practices.

But it would be done in a very special way.

Baba would say, “Gopal, show us your shaoca manjusa. You have such a beautiful shaoca manjusa. It is very nice. Show it to us so everyone may see – after all this is one of our 16 Points.”

Baba had intentionally called on Gopal because He knew that Gopal did not have a shaoca manjusa.

In response, in the course of this loving liila where Baba was watching out for the welfare of all, Gopal would feel a bit ashamed or humiliated or embarrassed, and internally understood that he would have to be more strict on the point of shaoca manjusa.

And in that way, all the other margiis present understood as well that they would have to be strict, lest they get called on in front of all.

Baba would do the same thing with the point of laungota. If anyone present was not wearing a laungota, then that was the person Baba would call upon.

Baba would say, “Oh, Chandra Mohan, I understand you are very sincere in wearing a laungota every day. Is that not so. Don’t you always wear your laungota. Tell us.”

Then everyone knew that Chandra Mohan was not wearing a laungota. Plus they all knew that if next time they did not wear one then they would get called on.

Once all the physical aspects were addressed in this way, from food to fasting to taking bath properly etc, Baba raised the standard to the psychic & psycho-spiritual planes. He would check to ensure all repeated Guru Mantra before entering the room and that everyone was doing sadhana – all lessons – as directed.

So by applying pressure, Baba was teaching and ensuring we were actively involved in 16 Points. None wanted to be pointed out so step by step, point by point, all began following. This was the way things were rolling those days. Baba was getting everyone prepared and ready.

And not only that, in His loving liila, Baba would harshly rebuke and scold in-charges and VSS for allowing margiis to enter without following 16 Points. So they in turn began vigilantly checking to ensure all margiis were wearing laungota, carrying shaocamanjusa, doing pracara and properly following all the various element of 16 Points.

By this way everyone became strong Ananda Margiis and could weather the storm that was about to come.

STILL RELEVANT TODAY

Now in this year of 2011, the same system applies. Sixteen Points will save us from all difficulties and keep us moving in the right direction.

Baba says, “For progress in entitative flow, one is to lead a pure life, a moralistic life, a life based on moral principles. Do not do anything bad. What is bad? Bad is that which depraves human existence. Follow a strict code of morality. Live a pure life, a neat and clean life. Be strict in 16 Points. What will happen? Your entitative flow will get
purified and will be in parallelism with your psychic wave.” (SS_12)

And here below Baba directly states that our strength and stamina will increase multi-fold by adhering to Sixteen Points.

Baba says, “The more rigidly you follow the 16 Points, the more your mental strength will increase. It will increase so much that it will be more powerful than the collective mental strength of 100,000 people. In a psychic clash they will have to concede victory to you. A person who is physically strong can fight against eight, ten or twenty people at
most, but no more than that. A psychically developed person, however, is able to fight against many more people. So you must endeavour to develop your psychic strength – this is your bounden duty. The more rigidly you follow the 16 Points, the more psychic strength you will acquire. It will not take you long.” (AV-7)

Thus in the same way that 16 Points gave Wts and margiis the strength to manage and thrive during the Emergency, today also 16 Points will fortify us in all the ways needed to spread His teachings and gain success.

Let us also not forget that Baba is watching and those who follow His teachings of Sixteen Points will be graced more and more to proceed onwards. That is also His expressed guideline.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace ours is not the path of preya (mundane pleasure), but rather the path of shreya (Supreme benevolence). Sixteen Points is the way forward. Our duty is to follow and make sure other margiis are also following. Then our Marga will be strong, on both the individual and collective level.

Baba says, “…In order to march ahead on the road of human welfare, we will have to strengthen ourselves in all the arena of life. The complete seeds of welfare in all the spheres – physical, mental, moral, social and spiritual – are embedded in the sixteen points. Hence be firm on the sixteen points.” (A’nanda Va’nii #45)

Namaskar
Karun

Note 1: MANY OF THE 16 PT TEACHINGS WERE PRESENT ALREADY

Although Sixteen Points was formally given during the above time period in 1970-71, many of those teachings were already present in the form of various worker and margii conduct rules, Yogic Treatments, and other teachings. By giving 16 Points, Baba codified and explicitly listed all these rules and regulations into one concerted list.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“A’va’r ki re a’lo elo dhu’lor e dhara’te…” (P.S. #615)

Purport:

O’ human being, behold! Ajana Pathik has come again on this dusty earth. The flood of effulgence has come. Through the medium of longing, You quench the thirst of the eyes. Look, the Lord of Effulgence has Himself come. All the minds and hearts which were crying in suffering and pain, are now dancing in joy. Because, He has come. He loves one and all, everyone. He has come here to remove the suffering, and establish dharma. Because of His advent, everything changed. The sweet breeze is blowing full of fragrance. On this dusty earth, Ajana Pathik has come…

***************************************
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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You are Chained- You Need Freedom

From: “Shantatma Deva”

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Subject: You Are Chained – You Need Freedom

Date: Thu 28 Apr 2011 20:08:11 +0530

Baba

== YOU ARE CHAINED – YOU NEED FREEDOM ==

Namaskar,

Every human being understands they are bound; they understand they are

not free.

A few ignorant people may believe they are free but if they think more

deeply then realise that they are not free.

Yatha’ laohamayaeh pa’shaeh…

Everyone is bound by samskaras and they have no choice but to face them:

Disease, old age, sickness, loneliness, death. Everyone tries to avoid

these afflictions but ultimately they are chained and shackled by those

samskaras. There is no other recourse – one must face such bondages.

That is what Baba is teaching in the above shloka.

But is there really no escape? Must one return again and again onto this

earth, thousands and millions of times, to face their karmaphala (fruits

of their actions)?

This letter explains both the science of bondage and the solution, as

given by Marga Guru in the Supreme Command. As the gracious Taraka

Brahma Baba has given the way out from this cycle of bondage of life and

death.

SAMSKARAS, SUPREME COMMAND & MORE

So long as one is alive, every sadhaka has samskaras. It is impossible

for a human being to walk this earth and not have any samskaras.

Samskaras and human life go hand in hand – one cannot exist without the

other.

In your life you surely have faced many things which you did not like

and will not like: Humiliation, disease, loss, and so many troubles.

These are all the karmic reactions of past samskaras.

The question then is: If up to the very minute of one’s death a person

is still bound by all these samskaras, then how can they achieve

liberation?

Specifically, how does the Supreme Command work? How can one attain

liberation when they are shackled by piles of samskaras waiting to take

expression.

We will explore the above conundrum as well as other critical aspects of

samskara theory & the Supreme Command – all done according to the

teachings and guidelines of Baba.

CREATING MORE & MORE SAMSKARAS

In more than a few discourses, Baba explains how in one life a typical

human being creates such a huge amount of samskaras that they cannot be

exhausted in the next 100 lifetimes. Compounding that by multiple lives

then makes for an enormous bundle of samskaras.

Baba says, “Human beings have been committing numerous crimes and sins

for lives together resulting in a huge pile of sins as high as the

Himalayas.” (AV-7)

From that perspective, human beings are creating huge numbers of

samskaras whereby we are totally bound, if not crippled by a mountain of

karmic reactions.

For instance, suppose in one second, a person harms someone and then

they may face the reaction of that misdeed for years or even lifetimes.

Or if a baby was sexually abused once by one adult, then that baby will

be scarred their entire life and the guilty party must undergo a whole

boatload of reactions for this single crime.

Or suppose in a fractions of a minute a person poisoned food and

subsequently killed one hundred people, then that samskara will be

reaped for hundreds of lifetimes.

Or what about those who kill animals for sport or food, and they are

totally oblivious that they are incurring sin. Indeed there are many

examples like that.

It happens in society too according to gender and race, such as with

slave owners etc. People feel they have the right to harrass others

because that is the social norm of the day, but they will face the

reaction for countless future lives.

All in all, the human mind is wrought with so many propensities and

inclinations and in their lifetime people chase after one desire after

another. Name, fame, sex, wealth, prestige, house, property, children,

food, dreams, vanity, fear etc. All day long your average human is fully

engrossed in these dealings. In a single day, a typical person might

create dozens or even hundreds of new samskaras.

Then Baba cites how most are involved in negative works. It is not like

the whole entire humanity is engulfed in benevolence. People are

thieving, looting, raping, grabbing etc. With their vanity ego they

harass others and do injustice and do not even realise how much they are

harming others.

So people acquire samskaras by the truckload day after day – even for

doing good actions.

But that is not all.

Finally, as soon as one creates a new samskara, then that samskara or

unexpressed reaction starts growing. It collects interest just like in

the case of a bank loan. So we have to pay back that samskara with

interest.

That means if a person steals Rs100 then depending on how much time goes

by they will have to lose or payback 200, 1,000, or even 1,000,000

rupees. It all depends how much time goes by before they undergo the

reaction. Sometimes the payback is not for several lifetimes. In that

case, just imagine the interest. What was a simple misdeed can balloon

into a massive debacle.

If you punch someone unjustly just once, then ten years later you may

get get beaten by so many bandits or gang members at the same time,

getting punched again and again. One may think, “I did not do anything

wrong, why is this happening?”, but this is samskara from earlier.

In various phases people face either good samskaras and bad samskaras.

Even though one may be facing a good samskara today, in the future one

may face a whole pile of bad samsakras. It all depends on what is more

conducive at a particular time.

A young person may think that “I will never get sick”, yet all the while

they have samskara for a terrible sickness and that samskara is waiting

for the right time or conducive moment to take expression. Then in the

bad days of one’s old age that disease will manifest. It is all about

having a conducive environment. Just a seeds sprout in the spring and

not in winter, same is the case with both good and bad samskaras. The

right environment is needed.

The whole scenario then is quite serious. Getting bound by samskaras is

an inevitable and involved process. It happens to everyone – period,

whether one is a sadhaka or not.

How then are we to escape this web – this intricate and burdensome

bundle of samskaras.

BABA’S GRACIOUS BOON ON SADHAKAS

LIBERATION IS A SURE GUARANTEE

Enter the Supreme Command.

We all say it each and every week, if not more frequently, “Those who

perform sadhana twice a day regularly, the thought of Parama Purusa will

arise in mind at the time of death; their liberation is a sure guarantee.”

Thus, in the Supreme Command, Baba guarantees liberation to all sadhakas

– irrespective of the bundle of samskaras that they are carrying. And

here’ s how it works.

At the time of death, one witnesses a movie-like series of images that

flashes across one’s citta covering their life’s events. Typically that

produces a range of thoughts and the common person will get glued to one

of those worldly thoughts.

Things like: Yelling, thievery, stealing, harassment, killing, as well

as good thoughts like feeding others. But the dominant thought that

comes most strongly is usually something negative – not a benevolent ideal.

Then as soon as their body expires, the person will be in search of a

new body that matches up with their prevailing thought, or samskara. In

that way common people get reborn as dogs, bugs, mice, humans, stones etc.

It does not happen to just humans. In Jamalpur, Baba did a demonstration

where He made Dasrathji a medium to see a margii’s past life. There was

a yogi doing meditation who got bit by one wasp. The yogi then killed that

wasp – there was no reaction for the yogi – and the wasp died with the

thought of the yogi in mind and was reborn as that margii sadhaka.

Here the point is that one’e rebirth depends on one’s mental colour or

dominant thought.

Baba says, “One acquires a physical body according to the nature of

one’s sam’ska’ras. A human being who behaves like a goat or a dog may be

born as a goat or a dog in the next life, because such an animal body is

the proper base for the congenial expression of the latent sam’ska’ras.

Hence it is not at all impossible for a human being to be reborn as a

hog, a worm, a tree, or even a piece of stone. One’s destiny will be

decided according to the nature of one’s karma – this is an infallible

law.” (AMIWL-7)

Plus in so many discourses Baba tells that those who ideate on money

turn into coin or dollars etc.

But with sadhakas, however, the process is entirely different.

Baba guides us that if one is earnest in doing sadhana twice a day, then

they will get liberation. How? Because normally at the time of death the

mind seeks a new body according to karmic law. But if one is involved in

the thought of Parama Purusa at the time of death, then the rules of

karma do not apply. Then one is not bound by their past actions and

potential reactions. Then the movie reel of negative deeds will not

appear in their mind at the time of death – only the thought of Him will

come. That is His grace. Then one will think nothing other than the

thought of Parama Purusa. In that state all samskaras get burned and the

sadhaka becomes one with Parama Purusa.

For that Baba wants that you must fulfill the guidelines of the the

Supreme Command. You do your duty of sadhana and He fulfllls His

guarantee of liberation. If the first half (i.e. sadhana) is not done

then second half (i.e. liberation) does not happen. Then the sadhaka is

bound.

On this aspect margiis are forunate and we should bring others onto the

path so they can save themselves from the horrors of samskaras and get

liberation. That is also part of the supreme command.

By His grace, when we do sadhana twice daily, then liberation is sure.

That is His divine compassion. Human beings alone cannot overcome all

those samskaras by themselves – His grace is needed. So then Baba

graciously dissolves all the remaining samskaras, and the sadhaka merges

in Him.

That is the special formula. And for it to happen, the pre-requisite is

twice a day sadhana.

One must try earnestly to do sadhana for 30 minutes each sitting- it

need not be perfect sadhana – the mind might flicker and one’s

concentration on the mantra might waver, but one’s sincerity must be

proper. That is the key point: sincerity.

If this type of reverential approach is taken in sadhana twice daily,

then regardless if one’s sadhana is “good” or “bad”, the bhakta is sure

to attain liberation. That practice is enough to ensure that at the time

of death one will think of Him, by His grace, in which case He will take

away all remaining samskaras and grant liberation. That is Guru’s most

gracious promise and boon.

WHY MUKTI IS IMPORTANT

Even then, those in the dark, may think that, “I am not bound – I am

free – I need not seek liberation.” Such is a classic case of sheer

ignorance, sometimes even good sadhakas can think like this.

Here we should always remember that everyone on this earth is bound by

samsakras in one way or another. Every jiiva is bound – bound by death,

by old age, by hunger, by so many things. No one is free.

One can only get temporary satisfaction through worldly things like

food, sleep etc. But then soon again one will feel hungry or tired. It

happens.

Baba says, “To live in this physical world, to preserve our existence,

artha or money is essential. However, we also require parama’rtha.

Parama’rtha is that factor which brings about the permanent cessation of

the triple afflictions. Here permanent cessation means cessation of

those afflictions which, once removed, will never return again in the

future. That artha which brings permanent relief from the pangs of

hunger, which is the instrument of permanent cessation, is called

“parama’rtha”. It is important that you understand the true significance

of “parama’rtha”.” (AV-4)

Only the spiritual sphere can permanently satisfy all human hunger and

yearning.

Only by following the rules and guidelines in the Supreme Command can

one attain eternal peace. Till that time, one will always be engulfed in

some kind of limitation and ignorance.

When we adhere to the Supreme Command – when we do sadhana twice daily

with sincerity – then by His grace we will be relieved of all bondages

and suffering and be granted liberation.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace every Ananda Margii does sadhana twice daily. In that

case liberation is certain.

So no one should get caught up in worry or despair. Baba is controlling

everything. He can and will save us from each and every predicament.

There is no cause for hopelessness or helplessness.

With sincerity in sadhana, He will grace us with only His thought when

we die, ensuring liberation. That is His guarantee in the Supreme Command.

Baba says, ” If one dies while seeking the Supreme, one will surely

attain the Supreme after death. One who is totally absorbed in ideation

on the Supreme becomes one with the Supreme at the time of death. This

is certainly true in the case of devotees.” (AMIWL-9)

Namaskar,

Shantatma

Note 1: UNDERGOING SAMSKARAS

Here are two more points about undergoing samskaras.

(A) You may have noticed how people comment that once one gets initiated

then so many problems and difficulties start happening. That is because

the karmic cycle speeds up so one can undergo all their reactions. Even

then by His grace He will ensure that they get totally exhausted in the

end. So that is one phenomenon.

(B) Side by side, if the mind is high and vibrated then the

manifestation of bad samskaras does not cause mental anguish to the

sadhaka. If one is devotionally remembering Him, then one will feel

light and easy.

For instance, if Baba is coming and one sadhaka is rushing to go see

Baba and while running he cuts his foot. That sadhaka may not even know

that his foot is bleeding because his mind is so engrossed in the

thought of Baba.

That is the way it works. Other may think you are suffering a lot but if

the mind is high, then one does not experience any mental trouble while

undergoing those samskaras.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

PS Intro: In this following song the devotee is talking to Baba, all the

while indirectly referring about himself.

“Jeo na’, shon’o katha, bojha vytha’, abujha hoyo na’…” (PS 660)

Purport:

Baba, please be gracious, please do not leave me all alone, please do

not go far away; please keep me in Your shelter. Baba, please listen to

the tale of my aching heart; please understand my pain and suffering–

because of my deep longing for You. Baba, I beg You not to remain aloof

about my yearning and crying for You. Baba, You have graced me and have

made the flower of devotion blossom in my heart. And these flowers are

solely for making one beautiful garland for You– ultimately

surrendering them at Your lotus feet. Baba, please do not mercilessly

crush those flowers. Baba, please be gracious.

Baba, by Your infinite grace please keep me close. Please do not

permanently forget about that person who is under shelter day and night.

Baba, it seems You have removed him from Your memory. Baba, please

recall how in the past You loved him deeply up to his heart’s content.

That time You saturated his mind with bliss and filled his eyes with

Your loving gaze. You were so gracious those days. Baba, You know that

very person was with You in each and every rhythm of the song, he was

also with You in all kinds of works– always remaining by Your side.

Baba, please do not forget him.

Baba, by Your grace I never forget this eternal truth that You are

everything. You are the effulgence of the day as well as the darkness of

the night. Baba, in this life of mine I have loved only You. Baba, You

are the heart of my heart. Please shower Your divine grace on me day and

night, incessantly. Baba, even if You always remain forgetful of me,

that I can tolerate. Only I ask one thing of You. Baba, please do not

push me away from Your holy, lotus feet. Baba, You are my closest &

dearest One. You are my everything. Baba, please keep me in Your shelter…

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

Who is blessed one?

Baba says, “The man who is intelligent should, from his very childhood,

move along the path of proto-spirituality. The sooner a man starts and

moves along this path of psycho-spirituality, the better it is. He is

the blessed one.” (AV-12, p.75)

Note: With the start of this happy new year we should once again reflect

how Baba has graced us by providing us all the tools and teachings for

moving along the path of spirituality. So again with renewed vigor we

should be more firm and more sincere in our adherence to Sixteen Points.

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

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Difference Between Half & Full Sadhana

Date: Sat, 09 Apr 2011 20:02:11

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Subject: Difference Between Half & Full Sadhana

From: Jiivendra

Baba

== DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HALF & FULL SADHANA ==

Namaskar,

In our AM approach, sadhana is looked upon as the cream of all our

practices. It is the greatest endeavour of our human existence. And of

course per Baba’s divine teaching we all practice our meditation lessons

twice daily, at minimum. This is His Supreme Command as well as the nectar

of our spiritual life.

In our daily lives it cannot be denied however that we have innumerable

duties to attend to and countless tasks to perform. Sometimes it can seem

as though our worldly responsibilities are endless– or nearly so.

Fortunately, while engaging in these occupations we can keep the mind

vibrated in His thought by doing half-sadhana. That is another one of our

jewels of meditation.

So even though we may not be able to close our eyes and sit for meditation

each and every minute of each and every day, through the practice of

half-sadhana we can keep that sweet spiritual flow in tact, by His grace.

IMPORTANCE OF SADHANA

Of course all acknowledge the great value of sadhana. However still there

is a certain trend in AM where some think about doing sadhana without ever

really sitting down to do meditation. That is they read about sadhana or

talk with others about spirituality etc, but they never seem to get the

time to really sit down and immerse the mind in long, silent sadhana

sessions. For them it remains just a dream only. This happens to some in

our Marga.

Here below Baba gives the teaching that just reading and talking about

spiritual discourses will not bring one closer to the Goal, to Him. To gain

success in spiritual life one must commit themselves to the practice of

sadhana.

“Na’yama’tma’ balahiinema labhyah…”

Baba says, “The A’tma’n cannot be attained by the immoralist or the

materialist.And the one who listens to learned discourses or reads the scriptures in

the hope of realizing the A’tma’n with the help of keen intellect will

surely be disappointed.”

“How can one know the A’tma’? The answer is, by performing spiritual

practice (sa’dhana’) with devotion and sincerity. For human beings

spiritual practice in individual life is mandatory. Without sa’dhana’ one

cannot expect to make any progress. If one learns the secrets of spiritual

practice from a learned preceptor and practices regularly one will realize

intuitively the existence of the Supreme Cognitive Faculty.” (TK-3)

So, according to Baba, dedicated & sustained efforts in the discipline of

meditation are needed in order to advance along the spiritual path. Without

sadhana progress is impossible.

And here again in the following passage Baba emphasizes the need to deeply

engage in sadhana if one hopes to get Him.

Baba says, “To realize Him one must direct all one’s sentiments and

propensities – in fact the entire psychic flow with its integral outlook –

towards one’s inner existence. Only on this path of supreme synthesis can

human beings attain the Supreme Entity and transcend the bondages of pain

and pleasure, old age, death, etc.” (APH-5)

Thus in so many ways we can see that sadhana is the key aspect for

spiritual growth and development. And without doing deep sadhana, one will

never really feel His sweet grace. That is Baba’s teaching.

OUR APPROACH IN FULL SADHANA

And sure enough, sadhana is the main ingredient of our spiritual lives.

Plus it has to be recognised that in our AM sadhana we follow a very

systematic approach.

In our twice daily meditation, we close the eyes, fold back the tongue, and

shut down the external senses through the practice of pratyhara– by

performing the three shuddhis as we embark on our meditation. And

ultimately we bring the mind to one particular point, cultivate that great

devotional feeling of loving Him, and ensconce the mind in the repetition

of our mantra. When doing first lesson then the mind is immersed in the

ista cakra and when doing dhyana the mind is absorbed in Guru cakra. This

every practitioner of sahaja yoga understands. And in a nutshell this is

how we approach our regular sadhana practice.

SOME OF THE BASICS OF HALF-SADHANA

Of course, from morning till night we have so many other worldly plans and

programs to attend to. In that case the practice of half-sadhana is

invaluable. Because this can be done anytime throughout the day since in

half-sadhana the eyes remain open.

Exactly when is it that we can do half-sadhana? While walking, cooking,

driving, washing clothes, doing errands, commuting, cleaning, and

innumerable times throughout the day.

So half-meditation is quite a handy approach.

And while here we will go through the various aspects of half-meditation,

the chief difference between full sadhana and half-sadhana is that in

half-meditation we do not keep the mind fixed on a particular cakra. Reason

being that in half-meditation we are involved in various worldly works so

the eyes must remain open, not closed, in which case keeping the mind

introverted at a particular point is not really possible.

HOW HALF-SADHANA CAN BE DONE

As you probably already know, when doing half-sadhana using our ista mantra

then we skip over the shuddhis that we normally do in first lesson and go

right into the phase of cultivating that devotional longing for Baba. And

then with the eyes open we repeat our ista mantra, not necessarily

concentrating on any particular cakra. Just however one feels comfortable

one should engage in their mantra japa and generate that sweet link with

Him– all the while keeping one’s eyes open and attending to their worldly

duties.

Our approach to doing half-dhyana is similar. Here again we bypass the

shuddhis and delve right into the devotional flow, cultivating that

yearning and longing for Him. And then we start repeating our dhyana mantra

again and again, feeling His divine presence all around us. Since the eyes

are open and we are not focused on any particular cakra, then we can think

that He is watching all our movements. Or we can think that we are just

moving through the day with Him right by our side. The main point being

that He is along with us and we are repeating our dhyana mantra– tangibly

feeling His sweet presence.

ONE OTHER DIFFERENCE

One other aspect of half-sadhana that is different from full sadhana is

that in half-sadhana the mantra need not be coordinated with the breath.

Rather one can just go on repeating the mantra at any pace they like– fast

or slow, irregardless of one’s breathing pattern. In this practice, both

fast and slow mantra repetition have their distinct benefits. On this point

everyone can experiment.

KINDLING THE PRACTICE

So this is our basic approach in half-sadhana. Since we are all sadhakas

then most if not all of these points are not new to any of us. Even then

perhaps this reminder will help enable us to do this devotional practice

more and more throughout the day. For it is the practice that makes it real

& blissful. Just knowing about intellectually but not doing it leaves the

mind dry & barren.

Thus as we engage in our practice of half-meditation then all are

encouraged to write in with any new points which they discover– or just

describe the feeling that comes when doing half-meditation. Reflect on what

way it changes the day.

One other thing that sadhakas often find is that by doing half-sadhana

regularly throughout the day then when they sit down for their full

meditation then their mind quickly immerses in that flow– making the

shuddhis almost effortless and the practice of mantra japa blissful. So

that is another wonderful benefit of half-meditation– it complements our

twice daily full sadhana practice.

ONLY THE BRAVE DO SADHANA

Whether we are talking about half-meditation or full meditation, one thing

is certainly proven: That meditation is only for the brave. This is Baba’s

divine guideline.

“Na’yama’tma’ balahiinena labhyo…”

Baba says, “Those who are weak, i.e., who have neither spiritual nor mental

force, do not achieve intuitional knowledge. The timid and cowardly remain

remote from Brahmabha’va or cosmic ideation.” (SS-2, p.46)

So it is only the courageous who immerse their minds in the practice of

sadhana and get that divine bliss; while those who are meek or wishy-washy

types just gossip about doing sadhana.

By practicing half-sadhana and by adhering to His supreme command of twice

daily meditation, we actively immerse ourselves in His thought and proceed

towards that Cosmic Nucleus thereby getting His divine touch, by His grace.

BABA’S BLESSING

In bestowing upon us the practice of dharma sadhana, Baba has truly

showered His greatest blessing on us all. May we realise Him fully.

Baba says, “When the mind transcends the barriers of intellect the

realization dawns in human beings that they cannot reach the abode of the

Supreme Entity through material science or philosophy, but through

intuition alone. Supreme blessedness lies in the unfoldment of intuition.

Those who are graced with intuition, even though they may be totally

illiterate, can reach the Supreme rank, thereby establishing themselves in

a state of perennial blessedness. The greatest pandits, however, become

lost in the labyrinth of logic, and even though they try to find a way out,

they finally attain nothing.” (AMIWL-9, p.640)

Namaskar,

Jiivendra

Note 1: SADHANA NOT TALL TALKS

Here below Baba is guiding us that He can only be attained through the

practice of sadhana– not by high-sounding talks etc.

Baba says, “You cannot get that Supreme Entity by tall talk. Na medhaya´ –

Not by your intellect. Na bahuna´ shrutena – Nor by reading or going

through so many books or lectures…Do your sa’dhana’, do your sa’dha’na’,

do your sa’dhana’…Get it by doing sa’dhana’.” (AV-23, p.23-4)

Note 2: SYSTEMATIC SADHANA MAKES ONE UNDEFEATABLE

Baba has blessed us with a perfect system of meditation and by doing all

the lessons on a regular basis then we are sure to attain success– never

to be defeated.

Baba says, “You have learnt a well-ordered system of meditation and other

spiritual practices based on dharma. If any individuals or groups, however

powerful they may be, try to suppress you or even succeed in suppressing

you, they are bound to be destroyed. History has witnessed many such a

downfall in the past. No one has ever been victorious or will ever be

victorious by opposing dharma. March ahead with your own strength, march

with firm steps and your head held high. Always remember that when dharma

is with you, whoever will oppose you will be razed to the ground – their

destruction is a must.” (AV-4)

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

PS Intro: This song describes the feeling of one higher stage of devotional

realization.

“Prabhu, toma’y kii kahibo a’ro…” P.S. 447

Purport:

Baba, oh Prabhu, I love You so much. How can I express the deep love

of my heart to You. Words alone fail to describe the feeling. With my vocal

chords I cannot express the grace which You have showered on me. Baba, You

have permanently drenched me in Your ahetuki krpa’. Since I have gotten You

in my life, my life has become meaningful. I do not have any other type of

longing in my mind except You. Baba, by Your grace, my mind is running

always towards You & You alone. Baba, You have made my life blissful, in

all the ways. It is just as if my whole existence is full of nectar.

O’ my dearmost, the cimmerian darkness has vanished from my life;

those black days have gone far, far away. There is no longer any trace of

them. This has all happened since the divine effulgence descended in my

life by Your grace.

Baba, according to Your tune, melody, and rhythm, I am dancing. My

days and nights and my entire life has become just like one bouquet of

songs. Not even a wee-bit of dilemma or confusion is existing in my life.

By Your infinite grace my mind is perfectly straight. This is all because

of Your boundless karuna’.

Baba, my whole existence– my body, mind, and prana– is vibrating

with the spiritual waves which You have generated by Your sweet touch.

Baba, I have gotten You by Your grace. You have graced me immensely. Baba,

I fully surrender myself at Your lotus feet…

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

Brave Persons

Baba says, “Do not remain worried about your individual problems at all.

Be prepared to carry your own burden and be prepared also to carry the

burdens of others. Then alone are you brave. Be dagdhabiija. Everyone

has their own individual problems. Do not try to pass them on to others.

On the contrary, bear the burdens of others. No one is your enemy. Be

ready to bear the burdens of others.” (AV-30, p.4)

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

Read Full Post »

Reverence to Guru is at Stake

Date: 20 Mar 2011 19:27:44 -0000

From: “Anil Vijayan”

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Subject: Reverence to Guru is at Stake

 

Baba

 

== REVERENCE TO GURU IS AT STAKE ==

 

Namaskar,

As once again some are murmuring about changing the Supreme Command, let

us all take a moment to reflect on what it means to have a Guru and be

on the path of tantra.

 

 

SPECIAL ASPECT OF TANTRA: GURU PUJANAM

 

As we all know, in tantra, Guru’s example, teaching, and word are

everything. We have all experienced how this is an invaluable feature of

being on the path. With reverence & surrender, the disciple must follow

Guru’s each and every order. That is the way tantra works: To do as per

Guru’s wish.

 

So the spirit of Guru pujanam is an essential aspect of tantra– it

creates a special link of love and reverence between the sadhaka and the

Guru. Without that there is no tantra.

 

Baba says, “Gurupu’janam – one must have reverence for the guru.” (AV-34)

 

Baba says, “Gurupu’janam: one should do as per the gospels of the

preceptor.” (SS-18)

 

Hence, Baba’s clear-cut mandate is that each and every disciple must

adhere to Guru’s expressed guideline. And indeed the devotee feels in

their heart that there is no other way, ‘I must follow what Baba has

given; that is what is most dear to me’. This is the innate feeling of

every Ananda Margii, of every bhakta. And this inherent yearning– along

with His divine grace– are what propel us towards the Goal.

 

 

MISGUIDED ATTEMPT OF A FEW JINANIS

 

However, yet again, some misguided jinanis are trying to misdirect

simple margiis by wrongly claiming that the Supreme Command must be

changed. And they have given all sorts of logic and reasoning which need

not be addressed here– nor anywhere.

 

Because all such attempts to change Guru’s Supreme Command are useless–

since they undermine the whole essence of tantra, and with it the

Guru-disciple relation.

 

 

BABA HIMSELF SPOKE THE ‘SUPREME COMMAND’ TERM

 

In the recorded version of the discourse– ‘Mantra O Mantrajapa– given

in Morning General Darshan on 18 June ’79 in Kolkata, Baba Himself

states the term ‘Supreme Command’, in English. That itself is enough to

know that He approves of that very translation of the Bengali ‘Caram

Nrdesh’.

 

So when the term ‘Supreme Command’ is His own selection of words, then

that should be honoured.

 

It is not that we are debating the translation of Carma Nrdesh into

Swahili, Portuguese, Thai– or any other language which Baba chose not

to speak. Rather the Supreme Command term is the very English term which

Baba Himself spoke. Hence there is no question of having it changed.

This is Guru’s given term: Supreme Command.

 

 

DISEASE OF SOME JINANIS

 

But some dry jinanis have the penchant to change everything– even the

Supreme Command– which is why Baba Himself makes explicit jokes about

such jinanis.

 

In Varna Vicitra part 2, in the last chapter Baba muses how when

proofing another’s writing, a jinani will even cross out the term

‘please’ and put ‘kindly’; and if the person had originally written

‘kindly’ then the jinani will mark it out and insert ‘please’. This is

the diseased approach of various jinanis. Their ego goads them to change

each word– to put their fingerprints on everything.

 

And it is this very same pettiness of mind which leads certain jinanis

to even change the words of Guru’s Supreme Command.

 

When, in reality, the term is not up for debate. Baba has Himself spoken

the phrase ‘Supreme Command’ in English then that is enough for us. What

He has given is gold and none should get duped into chasing after some

glittery tinsel instead– i.e. the false words of some jinanis.

 

 

GURU’S WORD IS EVERYTHING

 

The overall idea is that Guru’s guideline is everything in tantra. In

vaedic diiksa, the guru is not so important. But in tantra the relation

with Guru is everything. That is the greatness of tantra.

 

And verily true tantric disciples have been blessed with the inner

feeling that Guru’s every mandate is divine.

 

So when Baba is the Tantric Guru and when He Himself has given the words

‘Supreme Command’, then that is the term to be used– period.

 

It is just like how Baba has given the term avadhuta– then there is no

question of changing that to mullah, or priest, or pundit etc. Because

what He has given is what is best. That is His preference and it is that

preference which we must uphold.

 

 

BABA’S BLESSING

 

By Baba’s grace, He has given us everything to progress in life and the

very essence of those teachings have been embedded in His Supreme

Command. As His disciples, we are not only to strictly follow the orders

given in the Supreme Command, but with reverence– with Guru pujanam–

we are to honour the name itself as that is the one Guru has explicitly

chosen.

 

Baba says, “In Tantra, the greatest emphasis is placed on the

preceptor-disciple relationship… [and] also on the need for disciples

to make a total surrender to the preceptor in the early stages of the

Tantric path.” (AMIWL-9)

 

Namaskar

Anil

 

Note 1: BABA’S WARNING: BEWARE OF JINANIS

 

Baba strongly warns us about such tricky jinanis who wish to change

Guru’s teachings like the Supreme Command. Wherever they go, such

jinanis create hell and confusion in the society– for no reason other

than to show off their own intellectual extravaganza.

 

Baba says, “Such hypocrites want to misguide the people by their tall

talks alone…’Loka Vya’moha Ka’raka.” That is, ‘They create disease in

the minds of the people.’ Their aim is not to solve society’s problems.

Rather, they are the chief cause for the downfall, retardation and sad

plight of human society. The present crisis in today’s civilization is

due to them. Their theories are based on the psychology and intellectual

extravaganza of the hypocrite. You will certainly encounter many such

theories in the social sphere, the economic sphere, and other spheres of

life. This is not the problem of a single country, but of the entire

intellectual world. Again I repeat that the crisis in civilization today

is due to the intellectual extravaganza of these hypocrites, these

polished satans.” (PNS-6)

 

Thus jinanis are never happy nor ever satisfied unless they are puffing

up their own egos by putting forth their own false theories and

attaching their own name to such theories. That is what Baba is warning

us about in the above passage. And that is exactly what we see happening

with such jinanis who have made up their own fake term– Supreme Direction.

 

As Ananda Margiis, we are to uphold Baba’s original and chosen term,

‘Supreme Command’.

 

 

Note 2: MORE LETTERS ON THE SANCTITY OF THE SUPREME COMMAND

 

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/03/digging-dead-issues.html

 

 

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

 

“Maner vyatha’ mani ja’ne, ca’pa’ a’che gopane…” – P.S. 463

 

Purport:

 

Baba, I love You so much. The yearning and longing which I have for You,

everything is hidden deep within my mind. The feeling which is in my mind

nobody can understand– except my mind. If I want to express these ideas

and sing them to You in the form of song, then it is very

difficult to do. Because these are the inner feelings of my heart– and

are not to be shared in public. But I can sing those songs to You if

only You and I are there– nobody else. When we will be together in a

lonely place then I will surely make You listen to those songs which

resonate the inner feelings of my heart. Baba, the pain of my mind only

my mind can understand.

Baba, the Prabhat Samgiita songs which I sing in dharmacakra & other

programs, whatever I sing in those songs the feeling of my heart is not

expressed. Those songs which express my internal feeling I do not sing

in dharmacakra. What I will sing in lonely place that I will sing for You.

The language of the heart only the heart can understand. It cannot be

heard by external ears. In my practices, I feel in my heart that You are

and I am– and that except us there is nothing else in this entire

universe…

 

 

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

The Way Parama Purusa Evaluates

 

Baba says, “Do not think that those who are highly learned intellectuals

are elevated. In the realm of spirituality even illiterate persons can

reach the Goal, leaving those intellectuals behind. Parama Purusa does

not consider the intellectual qualification or intellect. He evaluates

everyone with the measuring scale of how much love one has for Parama

Purusa.” (SS-14, p. 91, Saharsa DMC, 27 June 1980)

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

 

Read Full Post »

Desire of Cowardly People

From: “Mahendra Deva”

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Subject: Desire of Cowardly People

Date: Mon, 14 Mar 2011 08:51:08 +1000

 

Baba

 

== DESIRE OF COWARDLY PEOPLE ==

 

Namaskar,

In a recent discussion, one critical point came to the fore: Should we change our AM terminology and toss away certain terms used by Baba because those words now hold a negative connotation in the general society?

 

Before reviewing the specific example recently raised in a discussion forum, we should see Baba’s example.

 

 

BABA STORY:

 

AM’S REPUTATION DURING EMERGENCY

 

During Emergency, many margiis were having a hard time starting and carrying out new social service programs because the public had a very poor regard for Ananda Marga. In those days, the name and reputation of Ananda Marga was very bad due to the false propaganda by Mrs. Indira Gandhi’s despotic regime. So the margiis made a motion and asked Baba for permission to change the name of Ananda Marga. Baba’s reply was very straightforward: “No.”

 

Hence even though the name “Ananda Marga” was misunderstood, controversial and poorly received in the general society, Baba was quite adamant that the name must not be changed.

 

We must keep Baba’s above example in mind in light of the recent suggestion to change the term “benevolent dictator” – or any other AM term for that matter – simply because the public has a poor opinion of the term “dictator”.

 

Here below are further points for everyone to contemplate.

 

 

MORE REASONS WHY WE SHOULD KEEP

 

OUR TERM BENEVOLENT DICTATOR

 

1. JOINING OF TERMS: We have to remember that when two terms are joined together then they create an entirely different word and meaning.

 

(a) For instance, take the case of “Scotland Yard”. “Scotland” is a land area in the United Kingdom, and “yard” refers to a small patch of land in front of or behind a house. Yet when we put those two terms together, i.e. “Scotland Yard” then it refers to the “Metropolitan Police Service of London”.

 

(b) Likewise, when the terms “cup” + “board” are put together the term cupboard takes on a whole new meaning. As we all know cupboard means cabinet and has nothing to do with “cups” and “boards”. Similarly, nowadays in the west, the terms “boy” + “friend” when added together take on a whole new meaning. Boyfriend now means sexual partner, which is quite different from the literal meaning of a friend who is a boy.

 

(c) Same then is the case with the term “benevolent dictator”. When those two words are put together, then it takes on a completely new meaning. By itself, the term “dictator” might refer to a tyrannical ruler etc, but when joined together with “benevolent” then it refers to a selfless spiritual revolutionary who works for the welfare of the people.

 

 

2. MEANING CHANGES: Ultimately over time, the meaning of any word changes based on the activities and actions associated with that term.

 

For instance, if a particular group uses a very popular word – like flower – and carries out terrorist activities under that banner, then the people will begin to despise the word “flower”. Similarly, at this point in time the world may not like the term “dictator”, but when our benevolent dictatorship practically features great works done for the welfare of humanity, then people will naturally change their opinion about that term. They will understand that the old, singular term “dictator” has no bearing on the meaning of our dharmic phrase, “benevolent dictator”.

 

 

3. MEANING BY ASSOCIATION: Words take on a new meaning based on what they are linked with. For example: The name “King” is a common family name in the west. So if someone’s last name is “King” but that person is very poor or homeless, then the people of that area will associate poverty with the name “King”. They will not think of someone regal and rich.

 

The point being that a word takes on a new vibration and meaning based on its association.

 

Thus, when Baba’s Proutistic term, “benevolent dictator”, is associated with all kinds of dharmic and righteous works for the well-being of humanity, then the “benevolent dictator” phrase will reflect a very positive meaning even though it contains the term, “dictator”.

 

Here are further terms that changed in meaning due to their social context.

 

(a) Cult: This was looked upon as a dharmic term in the past but now due to fanatic religious cults in the west, the term cult is looked upon as radical and dangerous.

 

(b) Ideology: In the past ideology was viewed as a positive or neutral term, but now with the political rhetoric in the USA, ideology is looked upon as one’s own self-serving agenda.

 

(c) Yoga: The term yoga used to be related with Lord Shiva, Lord Krsna and the great Himalayan sages; now it refers to skinny females in tight clothing doing stretching exercises.

 

(d) Ponzi: This was originally just a person’s name and now it has come to mean anyone who commits financial fraud on a grand scale as done by Madoff.

 

(e) Selfishness: In past centuries, being selfish was looked upon as a very negative personality trait; now however with the ascent of materialism, doing for oneself has become the theme of the day. It is expected that one will be selfish and it is viewed as a good quality.

 

(f) Religion: In the past religion was looked upon as something noble and worthy; now in most countries, especially in the west, religion is seen as an antiquated institution with narrow-minded views.

 

(g) Gay: In the past it was looked upon as sinful and criminal to be gay; now being gay and supporting gay rights is seen as progressive and open-minded.

 

(h) Children out of wedlock: In the past having children out of wedlock was a mortal sin wherein one was totally ostracized from society; today having children outside of marriage is view as “hip”, “progressive”, and very “stylish” – all the stars do like this.

 

(i) King: in the past kings were treated as second gods and their every order was followed as law. Today however, the entire sense of the term has changed. People have no interest or desire to follow any particular king. Those days are long gone.

 

(j) Dictator: With the likes of Hitler, Mussolini, Stalin, Saddam and others, during the course of the 20th century the term dictator became something very negative.

 

So in all the above cases the meaning of the term changed with the social conditions or context. Thus when people see how a benevolent dictator can bring all kinds of great changes to the society and lead others onto the path of well-being, then that vibration and meaning of the term “benevolent dictator” will be viewed in a very noble way.

 

 

4. BENEVOLENT DICTATOR IN EVERY FAMILY In each and every family the mother is primarily the one who makes the decisions concerning the well-being, discipline, and growth of the children. It is the mother who loves and cares for everyone’s welfare. She in effect is the benevolent dictator of the household and by this way the family flourishes. So this concept of a benevolent dictator is not foreign to us. Rather it is part and parcel of everyone’s upbringing.

 

 

5. SHOULD WE CHANGE ALL “CONTROVERSIAL” TERMS: If we are going to change our term “benevolent dictator” simply because the general society holds a poor opinion of the term “dictator”, then so many other words in our Marga will have to be changed.

 

Indeed we will have to remove the swastika from the pratik because people have a negative view of the swastika symbol. Plus we will have to change our Supreme Command as people do not like “throw oneself into the tortures of animal lives” and there are countless aspects of our AM philosophy and terminology which we will have to change.

 

For instance, the term “revolutionary” strikes fear in some people’s hearts as they associate revolution with blood and battle, but in AM we use revolutionary in a totally dharmic and positive manner. But since the term revolutionary is controversial in the general society, under this pretext we will have to banish it from our AM books and vocabulary as well.

 

Or take the case of the word dharma. Baba uses the term “dharma” in Ananda Marga to refer to bhagavad dharma, i.e. living in a righteous manner, doing sadhana for one’s own liberation and serving the society. Yet the Hindus also refer to their Hindu dharma which means to base one’s life on the ritualistic approach of Hinduism, i.e. following the dogmatic caste system etc. Should we therefore remove dharma from our books as well.

 

If we were to adopt this protocol with each and every word that is potentially controversial, then there would be countless books and discourses given by Baba that would need to be changed and His divine ideas would be lost. Baba’s teachings are totally revolutionary and He uses words and symbols in a totally new way. We should be ready to strictly stand by His chosen terminology, lest His every discourse be changed.

 

The central notion is that Baba has given His terms and definitions and we should abide by His teachings and not get swayed by public opinion.

 

 

6. MORE CHANGES: Nowadays in materialistic societies, there are some parents who sexually abuse their children. Thus the terms mother and father have come into question. Yet in Caryacarya, Baba guides us that we are to respect both mother and father. Should we therefore change Caryacarya because in some unfortunate circumstances the terms mother and father have taken on a negative connotation.

 

 

7. CONDUCT NOT THE NAME: In this day and age, people are more concerned about the product than the name. People like Apple computers because of the product not the name per se. If in Ananda Marga, our leaders embody dharmic codes and we call such leaders as “benevolent dictators”, then everything will be fine. In contrast, if in the name of benevolent dictatorship all kinds of nonsense and wrongdoings take place, then the people will not tolerate it. So we should not be concerned about specific terms rather we should aim to manifest Baba’s dharmic ideal associated with those terms. If we embody those ideals then people will naturally grow to greatly respect terms such as benevolent dictator.

 

 

8. BABA’S DIVINE EXAMPLE: Then of course we have to keep Baba’s aforementioned example in mind. Baba outrightly told the margiis not to change the name of Ananda Marga just because the general public held a poor opinion of AM. Hence, by Guru’s example alone it is quite clear that we are not to change His given terms simply because the public holds a poor opinion of those words.

 

 

9. USE OF BRACKETS: If there remains much concern that people will not understand our term “benevolent dictator” – or other potentially controversial words – then whenever the term appears in our AM books and writings, we can insert explanations in square brackets [ ] to indicate what we mean by the term. Then the public will easily get the idea. But under no circumstances should we do away with or change Baba’s designated term, “benevolent dictator”.

 

 

SUMMARY

 

As Baba’s disciples, our duty is to carry forth His message and teachings to the people, not change His terminology and guidelines according to the whims of the masses. We should take up this task with proper determination, then we will get success and the world will come to appreciate terms like benevolent dictator etc. Only cowardly people will wish to change Baba’s given terms. If we allow Baba’s terminology to be changed then His teachings will be tainted and we open the floodgates for xyz persons to change every word Baba has spoken. That is the very real danger. So we should stick by our principles and keep Baba’s original teachings as is. That is our duty.

 

Baba says, “Nindantu niitinipunah yadi va stuvantu: “If I am too concerned with those who praise or censure me, I will not find time to do my real work. As I have come to this world only for a short period, my only concern should be to keep on doing the duty the Lord has assigned to me. And while doing this allotted duty, I should remember that I belong to Parama Puruśa. I have come form Him, and I will have to return to Him – and to do that, I must complete my allotted duty.” (Subháśita Saḿgraha Part 12)

 

As His disciples we are also to safeguard the authenticity and veracity of His discourses. That means we are to keep them as is, and not change even one word. Only cowards – affected by public opinion – will be tempted to change Baba’s teachings. We will easily be able to recognise such persons. Whereas true dharmikas will stand firm on Baba’s teachings and guidlines.

 

Baba says, “The scriptures containing spiritual injunctions must be totally flawless.” (NSS, Disc: 14)

 

Namaskar,

Mahendra

 

 

Note 1: CHANGE BENEVOLENT DICTATOR TERM

 

Now let’s come to the present circumstance. Just the other day on the email, one respected Wt proposed that we change our Proutistic term: “benevolent dictator”. Here is what this Wt suggested:

 

“In my opinion there is no way that anybody will listen to us in the world if we use the term “dictatorship”…The world does not trust dictators.” (posted by one WT)

 

I have deep regard for this WT who is very brave. I do not know the reason why this WT raised this matter. I do not see any other weakness in their character so it is beyond my understanding why such a noble WT would raise this matter.

 

But now we all know that we must keep Baba’s designated term – “benevolent dictator” – as we are not to change His teachings nor His terminology. Plus, by our actions and selfless service, the common people will see that a benevolent dictator is an honourable term.

 

 

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

 

“Jyoti-ujjval pra’n’occhal tumi priyo…” (P.S. 2229)

 

Purport:

 

Baba, O’ Parama Purusa, You are the Divine Controller of this vast

universe. You are the brilliant effulgence– full of vitality & saturated

& with the love. Baba, You are my dearmost. By Your own glory You are glorified.

O’ Parama Purusa You are ever-adorable.

Baba, I do not have the strength to catch hold of You. With my little

strength and with whatever means I have, I try to catch You– but it is

impossible for me. Instead I remain engrossed in my own self– unit “I”.

This ‘unit I’ is preventing me from coming close to You. Baba, please

transform my ‘I-feeling’, make it Yours.

Baba, with my own strength I will not be able to get You. With the

thread of the spider’s net I will not be able to bind You and hold You.

Because of this, please by Your causeless grace, allow Yourself to get

held. This is my only request to You. Please keep this open for Your

consideration.

Baba, in my mind & in my heart, I have deep longing for You– to have

You close. Please grant me this by Your causeless grace. Baba please

come in my shravan, manan, niddidhyasan, & dhyana and make me Yours…

 

 

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

Proper Method of Sas’t’aunga Pranam

 

Baba says, “Prostration is called sas’t’aunga pranama…Of the five sensory

organs (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin), one, the skin, can be omitted,

and of the five motor organs (vocal chord, hands, legs, excretory and

genital organ), one, the vocal chord can be omitted. This leaves the eight

constituent parts. And the prostration made with these eight body-parts is

called sas’t’aunga pranama.” (APH-6, p. 398)

 

Note 1: As we all know, sas’t’aunga pranam is only done to Guru, not to

anyone else.

 

Note 2: Here following is the etymological meaning of the term sas’t’aunga.

 

sa + as’t’a + unga = sas’t’aunga

(with) (eight) (parts) = with eight parts

 

Thus, as Baba tells us in the above quote, “the prostration made with these

eight body-parts is called sas’t’aunga pranama.”

 

Note 3: In Baba’s small encyclopedia book known as Laghu Nirukta, on pages

337-38 Baba clearly defines that sastaunga pranam means to lie down in

front of Guru like a stick, completely straight. Specifically, when in the

lying posture, both the arms get extended straight over the head with the

palms together. Thus from the very tip of the middle finger down to the

bottom of the feet, one’s entire body will be one perfectly straight line.

 

Note 4: As a general rule, the amount of floor spaced needed to do

sas’t’aunga pranam is 2-3 feet more than the actual height of the person.

 

Note 5: In Laghu Nirukta, Baba also clarifies that the Personality to whom

you do sas’t’aung pranam does not derive any benefit per se. Rather those

doing this practice get 100% of the benefit in the psychic and spiritual

spheres. Hence this practice of sastaunga pranam is a scientific process

for acquiring greatness.

 

Note 6: For biological reasons, women should not do the mudra aspect of

this practice.

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

 

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Digging Dead Issues

From: “Satiish K Deva”

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Subject: Digging Dead Issues

Date: Thu, 03 Mar 2011 20:24:52 +0530

 

Baba

 

== DIGGING DEAD ISSUES =

 

Namaskar,

In reality this entire topic is a non-issue because when a devotee knows that the Supreme Command (English version) has been approved by Baba Himself then they will embrace it wholeheartedly. Because for a bhakta, Guru’s word is everything.

 

Unfortunately, one jinani has taken exception to Baba’s approved version of The Supreme Command.

 

Now kindly review the following points as we strive to maintain and safeguard the sanctity of Guru’s orginal teachings.

 

 

THE TITLE SHOULD REFLECT THE SPIRIT

 

1. The English title of the Supreme Command should express the spirit of the original Bangla. Literal translations are useless. The title should carry the proper vibration. The Bangla title, “Caram Nirdesh” means Supreme Authority and the spirit of that term is Supreme Command. Those who are Supreme they command. Parama Purusa commands. That is the feeling of Caram Nirdesh. Yet one jinani has written a false version in English and titled it as “Prime Directive”. This is totally wrong. Baba is Parama Purusa and what He has given is a command. Hence the proper English title is “Supreme Command”. And indeed that is the very title Baba has given and approved.

 

 

JINANIS ALWAYS FALL INTO PROBLEM

 

2. Problems only arise when one does not have adequate devotion for Baba. Such persons cannot accept or follow what Baba has said. Instead their jinani intellect gets in the way and they want to change everything. Those who have love for Baba should not allow such things to happen. What Baba has approved is final.

 

3. The jinani wrote: “The fact is that Baba posted an editor specifically for this work and the rule was that each translation should be finally approved by someone who knew the language very well before printing. In the case of the Supreme Command, the first English-speaking didis and dadas came after 1970, otherwise one of them would have asked to oversee the translation.”

 

Now here is the reply:

 

When Baba has approved the Supreme Command then this is a non-issue. If one is going to change the Supreme Command based on the faulty logic that it was given before 1970, then all these publciations will have to be changed as well: (1) Senior Acarya Diary, (2) Junior Acarya Diary, (3) Idea & Ideology, (4) Elementary Philosophy, (5) Discourses on Prout, (6) Problems of the Day, (7) Talks on Prout, etc. These aforsaid discourses were originally given in English and approved by the Author before 1970, but according to this jinani that is insufficient.

 

According to the jinani’s faulty logic, all these will have to be put in queue for re-translation. In that case the whole thing will be a mess. The Author – Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji – has already given His approval of these texts. Others do not have right to change those original discourses. That will be a gross injustice to the future generations. All must have the opportunity to see the original – even those who have yet to be born.

 

 

INTRODUCING NEW PEOPLE TO THE SUPREME COMMAND

 

4. Here is another classic quote by this jinani: “The other large challenge facing the English translation is the line: “Disobedience to this command is nothing but to throw oneself into the tortures of animal life for crores of years.” Any dada who has been in DC in English-speaking countries can tell you how the Margiis, especially new ones, cringe at the cruelty depicted in this line…One solution to this has been that many jagritis skip reciting the command when there are new Margiis present in DC.”

 

Here is the reply to such a statement.

 

If new margiis are introduced to and taught about our action-reaction theory then they will not be perturbed by the Supreme Command. Rather they will understand the logic and rationality and appreciate it very much. Here then the key point is to educate new people about our AM philosophy. That is the real solution. Then such new persons will easily comprehend the beauty of the Supreme Command.

 

In truth our Supreme Command is just like a road sign – giving warnings about the upcoming journey. This below link tells more about this analogy.

 

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/02/short-stories-about-naive-people.html

 

So again the real solution is to educate new people about our samskara theory and Baba’s divine teaching, “As you think so you become.” Then they will readily understand and appreciate Baba’s Supreme Command.

 

The answer is not to change the Supreme Command itself in order to appeal to the common masses. Rather they should be lifted up to the standard of Ananda Marga.

 

5. Regarding new margiis, if we constantly give in to public pressure and try to appease the public on each and every matter that they take issue with in Ananda Marga, then we will compromise on all levels including: alcohol, tobacco, male-female relations, homosexuality, tamasik food (meat), racism, casteism, social justice, abortion, rich and poor, and countless other issues. If we were to compromise our ideals and accept the public preference on such matters and accept those things into the Marga, would we still be Ananda Marga or something else?

 

 

THE SUPREME COMMAND GIVES US A SHARED UNDERSTANDING

 

6. The entire teaching of the original Supreme Command is very important. By this way, margiis from all over become aware about what is going to happen after death. Without that, a huge population of margiis will be in the dark about this. Instead they will follow old dogmas of svarga & naraka, zannat & dozakh, heaven/hell etc. But now, because of the Supreme Command, margiis have some basic concept of what happens after death. And this understanding is common among all in AM. We all agree on this as it is Guru’s guideline.

 

However, if some jinanis are allowed to change the Supreme Command in their own way, then things will become a mess and there will be no continuity (or truth) in our Marga about this. Changing the Supreme Command is nothing but their delirium. All the proposed changes by this jinani are just his delirious way of thinking.

 

 

CAN ONLY UPDATE IF THERE IS AN ORIGINAL RECORDING

 

7. if we have Baba’s original cassette of a particular discourse then that is a different matter. Baba wanted that those orginal discourses to be translated and preserved – hence our duty is to ensure the translation is proper by matching it up with the original cassette. Thus in cases like the Supreme Command, i.e. when He did not allow for the taping of that teaching, then His approved version is final. In that case, there is no grounds for changing anything.

 

8. We should follow and adhere to Baba’s approved English version of the Supreme Command. The life of any language is 1000 years. We should not listen to those calling to change the English version. If we give way to such a trend, then the original version will be lost forever.

 

 

SOME WILL DO ANYTHING FOR ATTENTION

 

9. Finally we should remember that some people will push any point imaginable to the fore just to bring their name in public and show that they themselves still exist. They just want attention – nothing more. It seems that was this jinani’s motive when he recently posted his 2006 article about the Supreme Command. The jinani’s aim was just to show and highlight himself. Otherwise there are so many valid ideological points to discuss. But that he did not do.

 

 

DEVOTION IS NEEDED

 

Once again it should be noted that such problems only arise when one does not have adequate devotion for Baba. Such persons cannot accept or follow what Baba has said. Instead their jinani intellect gets in the way and they want to change everything. Those who have love for Baba should not allow such things to happen. What Baba has approved is final.

 

Namaskar,

Satiish

 

 

Note 1: WHAT BABA SAYS IS OUR WAY

 

The jinani wrote: “In the English version of the Supreme Command, there is a grammatical mistake right in the very first sentence.”

 

Here is the reply to those who are concerned about the grammatical construction in the English version of the Supreme Command. On occasion, Baba Himself has accepted incorrect grammar into our AM teachings. In classical Sanskrit, it was correct to say: Satymameva jayati. But over the centuries this grammatical construction became tainted and in our AM teachings it is stated as, “Satyameva jayate”. So the final vowel is now an “e” instead of an “i”. This point was once raised with Baba, and Baba replied that in AM we use the changed version – not the original grammatically correct version. Baba’s reply is sufficient and final for any bhakta. What Baba says is the teaching – not any other version. But jinanis always get confused about this and create a mess.

 

 

Note 2: JUST A QUACK

 

So it seems this jinani is restless to highlight his name for any reason – even if it means creating a bogus version of the Supreme command. His situation is just like one doctor was so bad that nobody dared to get operated on by this doctor. So to attract new patients this doctor cut of his own nose and then stitched it back on as sample to prove what he could do. Even the nobody became interested as they knew this doctor was a quack.

 

 

Note 2: BABA CALLED HIM A JINANI

 

The person who made all these faulty changes to the Supreme Command is

Dada Bhaskarananda. In his silly essay, “Comments on The Supreme Command” (2006) he wrote all these things. And Dada just posted this thing again the other day.

 

It is well known that Baba used to call Bhaskarananda, “jinani”. Bhaskarananda liked it yet we all know how Baba describes jinanis in His many discourses. Baba says that they always create a mess. Now today we see how this is true with regards to Bhaskarananda; he is making a mess of the Supreme Command.

 

All this is happening due to a base lack of devotion. Such jinanis have no other work. Their only job is to create their own false logic etc. Tomorrow such a jinani may say not use a laungota because many object or for whatever reason. Such jinanis bring points from nowhere and create a problem by raising their false justifications on the public stage.

 

 

Note 3: ONE OTHER ERROR

 

Here is yet another misnomer that Bhaskarananda raised in His article.

 

“The Ananda Vacanamritam series, directly translated from the original Hindi, is an example of this type work done within the boundaries of scarcity of time.” (Bhaskarananda)

 

But the reality of the situation is as follows:

 

1. Some of the Ananda Vacanamrtam discourses were given in English, translated into Bangla, and then re-translated back into English.

2. Some were given in Hindi and translated into Bangla and then translated into English.

3. Some were given in Bangla and translated to English.

4. Some given in English and printed in English without any translation.

 

So can’t say that all the discourses of Ananda Vacanamrtam were translated from Hindi. Bhaskarananda has no idea that is why saying like this. If you want more detail write me etc. Here is one example.

 

The discourse, “Solilquy of the Supreme”, of Ananda Vacanamrtam was given originally in English in Patna and the printed in English directly. But the book says translated from the original Bangla.

 

One other key point is that most of the discourses originally given in three languages (i.e. H, B, and E) were then ruined as they only kept the Bangla portion and promptly discarded the sections Baba spoke in Hindi and English. So this situation is not straightforward. It is 100% wrong to proclaim, “Ananda Vacanamritam series, directly translated from the original Hindi”.

 

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Unpublished Unique Handwriting of Baba

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2011 11:18:21

From: “Hank Deva”

Subject: Unpublished Unique Handwriting of Baba

 

Baba

 

== UNPUBLISHED UNIQUE HANDWRITING OF BABA ==

 

Namaskar,

Our Ananda Marga is 100% rational in all respects – firmly based in the

ways of neo-humanism.

 

In 1961, Baba delivered one unique teaching – in the form of a

handwritten message – that ensures the well-being of all peoples and

protects the dignity of the entire humanity.

 

Till today, this special teaching has not been published in any of our

AM books, pamphlets or magazines.

 

 

BABA’S HANDWRITTEN MESSAGE

 

Here is the hand-written message which Baba has written in both English

and Hindi:

 

“Propagandists of communalism, provincialism, casteism, lingualism and

any other ism should be strongly dealt with even if it is found that

their charges are properly established.” – Baba (8 Jan 1961)

 

Such are the words Baba Himself penned on that day. It is a great

teaching for all, especially those who are the vanguards of society.

 

In each and every era, various groups or communities have tried hard to

exploit and demean another people, and in that process the exploiters

have come up with all kinds of justifications and logic, but Baba’s

above guideline wholly rejects all such attempts.

 

In a phrase, Baba’s guideline does away with all kinds of stereotypes.

 

Let’s together investigate the full impact and scope of Baba’s above

handwritten guideline.

 

 

APPLYING BABA’S MESSAGE

 

Baba’s above guideline offers a strong response to all those who indulge

in stereotypes. As we all know, a “stereotype” is when a person or group

makes a blanket statement about another community based on their own

biased views.

 

For instance, a person might proclaim:

 

– Black people are dumb; or,

 

– Females are too weak to be leaders; or,

 

– Jewish people are stingy, i.e. not generous $$; or,

 

– Muslims are terrorists; or

 

– Hairjans are dirty and uncultured; or,

 

– Mexicans are thieves.

 

(Note: There are certain existing stereotypes in AMPS such as no matter how hard they try, females will never be smart enough to run their own organisation. They should always be controlled by Dadas. Likewise, some feel that overseas Wts are not and will never be devoted enough to become Sectorial Secretary. Then there are other stereotypes surrounding circumcision, Supreme Command, co-ed camping at retreats, and adolescents having boyfriends and girlfriends, and many more.)

 

These are the types of “stereotypical” statements that some proclaim.

And in many cases, they may even have the data, facts, and figures to

back up their claim. Yet Baba’s staunch guideline from His handwritten

message is that we should firmly reject such charges.

 

For instance, about black people, a white supremest will say that by

nature black people are stupid and do not finish school. To support

their claim, that white supremest might present data from Harvard

University that shows that many black people drop out of high school,

very few go to college, and that many black people in the US end up

impoverished or in jail. Based on these established facts, the supremest

concludes that black people are dumb. Such racists, like this white

supremest, use real facts to justify their view(s).

 

However, Baba’s guideline is that even if “their charges are properly

established”, we should never accept the ways of racism etc. That means,

it may be true that more black people in the US do drop out of high

school and end up in jail, but one must never indulge in the racist

belief that therefore black people are only “half-human” or dumb. That

is not the proper conclusion as there are many factors involved.

 

Proof being that the same high school dropout rate would apply to white

students if they faced similar circumstances like financial hardship,

neighborhood crime, and a slew of other issues that have been rampant in

black neighborhoods after centuries and decades of racial discrimination

and unfair treatment.

 

It is our duty to attune our minds to the myriad of social injustices

that forced black people into such a desperate position. That is the

direction we should look and then remedy the situation accordingly. The

answer is not to indulge in racism and wrongly conclude that black

people drop out of school because they are dumb.

 

Thus, in no way, shape or form, should we give credence to such

stereotypical statements that play into one community pushing down or

exploiting another. Whether those statements are about the nature of

women, the ways of people from a particular nation, or the behaviour of

those in a specific religion or caste etc, we are to firmly stand by our

principles and keep a neo-humanistic outlook, never giving way to crude

beliefs based on caste, group, religious, or national sentiment etc.

 

 

THE SITUATION IN AM

 

Unfortunately, there are similar things going on today in our Marga.

Because of the grand diversity of life in AM and Baba’s special system

of posting workers, the scene in AM is far, far better than that of the

general society, even then we can find hints of racism or lingualism etc.

 

For instance, if any group in AM tries to enhance their prestige by

promoting their language or their area as being the best and the most

unique in the world, then that stand cannot be at all appreciated. We

must wholly reject such views.

 

That means if certain Bengali Wts and margiis proclaim that Amra Bengali

is the most important or best samaj and therefore all others are “second

best”, then we should reject their claims. The Bengali speaking leaders

may argue that only their language is 92% Sanskrit, or that Baba wrote

thousands of Prabhat Samgiita songs in Bengali, or that their race is a

unique blending of the four races etc. They may present all these types

of facts to show that workers from Bengal are most venerable and great.

But it is totally wrong to say that Bengali wts are the best or that

Amra Bengali samaj is the top. Because such statements are based on

“isms” like racism and lingualism. In that case those people (i.e.

propagandists) should be dealt with strongly. That is Baba’s exact

teaching.

 

“Propagandists of communalism, provincialism, casteism, lingualism and

any other ism should be strongly dealt with even if it is found that

their charges are properly established.” – Baba (8 Jan 1961)

 

All stereotypes are baseless as they are based on some type of ism. We

should be vigilant when dealing with such type of propagandists. That is

Baba’s exact teaching.

 

 

MORE ABOUT THE SITUATION IN AM

 

If we look from a different perspective we can see that Hindi group

leaders proclaim that any worker from Bengal is a spy and not to be

trusted. Such groupists view people based on groupist affiliation and

geo-sentiment. Thus, the Hindi or EC leaders are no less guilty of this

disease than those workers from Bengal.

 

The striking point is that in AM, geo-sentiment is dominant internally. Openly

they may not preach this sentimeent as they intellectually know it goes against neo-humanism, but those in power got there based on this sentiment. They

feel more comfortable with people of their same clan.

 

All the various Wt groups have been formed on this basis. No doubt they have

their logic to support their racist views etc, but whatever logic they

give should be discarded. Because they are just manipulating certain

facts to support their own narrow-minded ism.

 

If we see critically, then most of the key posts of a particular group

are given to people of their area or to those who have surrendered their

faith to that particular geographical place.

 

It is just like if an Afghan man surrenders himself to US supremacy then

and only then can he get a high post – otherwise he will just be thought

of as a terrorist.

 

Right now, in almost whatever direction we look, we can see groupist

leaders justifying their case and placing greater importance on their

chosen area, at expense of other places and peoples. That is the current

situation in AM and it is this that we should oppose. That is Baba’s

guideline.

 

 

KEY POINT TO REMEMBER

 

One key point to remember is that each and every area has mix of good

and bad people – everywhere it is like this. In Bengal, there are many

good people as well as bad persons, i.e. criminals and thieves, etc.

 

So no area, race, caste or group can proclaim themselves as the revered

ones or the best above all others. If anyone does like this it means

that they are are adhering to groupism, racism or some other ism. No

matter what logic they give, we should treat that as straw and throw it

away.

 

Unfortunately, some people never tire of praising that their own group

and some dumb people feel fortunate or honoured to receive those ideas.

In that we they get totally duped and become groupist pawns. However, we

should never get caught up in the belief that a certain group, language,

or region is really blessed and better than others.

 

Everywhere there are those who are blessed and those who are sinners. It

is not a functions of race, birth, language background, or birth etc.

 

 

BABA’S BLESSING

 

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with all the teachings in life to

build up a healthy human society and overcome all racism, casteism, etc.

We are to take a firm stand against those who indulge in stereotypes.

That is Baba’s distinct teaching that He wrote down that day in 1961.

And it is as true today as it was then. We should all pay heed.

 

Namaskar,

Hitendra

 

 

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

 

“Tumi eso go, eso go, eso go, a’mi hrday-duya’r khule diyechi…” (P.S.

673)

 

Purport:

 

Baba, by Your grace I have so much longing in my heart. Baba, I am

anxiously waiting for You. By Your grace I have kept the door of my

heart open for You. Please come, please come, please come and reside in

the deep core of my heart. Baba, You have taken all the nectar from my

flower blossom which I had been saving for You. Baba, You have taken,

You have taken.

 

Baba, year after year has passed– so many sweet,

loving memories have been lost in the oblivion. But You did not come.

Time passes like this. Baba, so many divine songs that I have song for

You have been swept away into the vast expanse. But You did not come.

Even now, I am eagerly waiting and looking constantly towards the path

of Your arrival. Baba, I am desperately waiting and looking forward to

hearing Your footsteps.

 

Baba, by Your grace I am always moving forward

towards You. Sometimes my speed is fast, by Your grace. And sometimes

due to my lethargy, my speed is quite slow. But by Your grace always I

am moving ahead on Your path, singing Your song with deep longing for

You. Baba in Your divine tune and melody and with the rhythm of

devotional yearning, by Your grace I am always ideating on Your supreme

thoughts and blissful tales.

 

Baba, please be gracious and come; my heart is always open and longing for You. Baba, please grace me and reside eternally in the depths of my heart and become my own…

 

 

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

Money and Peace

 

Baba says, “With the acquisition of money people still feel that they have

nothing; in spite of possessing a huge amount of money they often beat

their chests in despair. So it is not money they seek– what they truly

desire is peace, not happiness. But it is only rarely that people attain

peace in life…The answer [then] is that by attaining Parama Purus’a one

no longer has any unsatiated hunger or unqueched thirst.” And that is the

stage of perfect peace. (SS-12, p.38)

 

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Short Stories About Naive People

From: “Seshagiri Deva”

To: am-global@earthlink.net

Subject: Short Stories About Naive People

Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2011 21:37:19 +0530

 

Baba

 

== SHORT STORIES ABOUT NAIVE PEOPLE ==

 

Namaskar,

Some friends went to the zoo and were very intrigued by the lion. There were big, thick iron bars all around the area and red warning signs stating “Alert – Dangerous Animal: Keep your hands and feet away”.

 

Seeing the magnificence of the lion, some of the people were very mesmerized and were tempted to extend their hands within the boundary line. The zoo keeper noticed what was going on and warned everyone not to place their hands. He told them all to go back.

 

Immediately, the naive visitors became quite angry with the zoo keeper. They said, “Why are you terrorizing us, why are you trying to scare us; everything is alright, nothing bad is going to happen.” This was their reaction to the zoo keeper’s guideline.

 

Of course, we all know that the zoo keeper was not trying to scare or curse anyone. The zoo keeper’s sole intention was to warn them of the dangers and keep everyone safe and happy. If those visitors to the zoo understood this then they would not have argued with the zoo-keeper. Instead they would have calmly accepted his guideline, knowing that the zoo keeper was watching for their well-being.

 

Here is another story.

 

Once a team of travelers were driving from the flat lands up into a hilly and mountainous region. Soon they began to see lots of road signs: “Winding Road, Drive Slow”; “Dangerous Roadway, Exercise Caution”; and, “Deadly Turn – 200 Foot Chasm” etc.

 

Seeing all the signs, the drivers became furious and started a court case against the department of transportation for trying to terrify and scare them.

 

But we all know that the highway authorities were not trying to frighten anyone. Their sole intention was to warn drivers of the very real dangers and keep everyone safe and happy.

 

So those are the two stories. Now let’s see how they relate with our AM way of life.

 

 

RELATING THIS TO OUR ANANDA MARGA

 

At present in our Marga, a few people are upset and want to change or delete certain words from our Supreme Command. In particular they do not like these lines:

 

“Those who perform sadhana twice a day regularly, the thought of Parama Purusa will certainly arise in their minds at the time of death…Disobedience to this command is nothing but to throw oneself into the tortures of animal life for crores of years…”.

 

They especially do not like the second half of the aforementioned quote, which is intrinsically inseparable from the first line.

 

These naive people contend that Baba is trying to scare and terrify them – hence they do not want to speak or repeat this line, nor the entire Supreme Command.

 

But we all know that Baba wants our welfare and as the Supreme Father He is merely alerting us of the dangers of not doing sadhana twice daily. It is similar to the zoo keeper warning those visitors not to extend their hand beyond the boundary line and the department of transportation warning about the deadly turn.

 

Baba wants our progress to hasten along the path of bliss. He does not want to see anyone fall into problem.

 

Due to their simplicity, some people do not realise this. For this reason they are no different from those naive visitors to the zoo or those ignorant travelers on that mountain road.

 

 

THE PROBLEM AND THE SOLUTION

 

Here the critical problem is that some people are not aware about Baba’s teachings on brahmcakra, saincara, pratisaincara and negative pratisaincara. If they knew those points, they would understand that not doing sadhana and indulging only in materialistic thinking causes one to get turned into matter: stone, iron, wood and rock etc.

 

Unfortunately, such people do not realize that this line of the Supreme Command has been given to warn every aspirant about the dangers of materialistic and sensual pursuits. Baba wants everyone to make their life successful.

 

If those people were properly taught by their acaryas and understood Baba’s teachings about pratisaincara and the cycle of creation, they would have felt gratitude for Baba’s reminder in The Supreme Command.

 

Just like high-blood pressure patients feel gratitude towards their doctors for saving them by educating them about the dangers of a eating meat; in result, they can extend their life. Such patients feel grateful.

 

If those people understood how Baba’s guideline will help save them, they too would feel gratitude. But naive people cannot think in this way and instead become furious upon hearing Baba’s good advice.

 

Namaskar,

Seshagiri

 

 

Note: THE WORK OF OUR DADAS

 

My deepest respects to those wts doing pracara work in difficult fields. I appreciate their sacrifice and hard work. They have dedicated their life to propagate the gospel of neo-humanism and truth. My request is that they should do just that by educating these sympathizers who have newly come to the Marga. Such sympathizers do not understand Ananda Marga philosophy. Dadas should educate them. Then this type of problem will be eliminated permanently. And they will be grateful to those Dadas for saving them.

 

 

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

 

“Dhya’nete a’ji dekhechi a’sabe tumi a’ma’r ghare…” (P.S. 4594)

 

Purport:

 

O’ my dearmost Baba, by Your divine grace, today I have seen You in my dhya’na and You told me that You will be coming to my house. O’ my Lord, You are so gracious. And now everything is ready for Your grand arrival. The seat has been properly prepared and the colorful a’lpana’ decorations have been beautifully placed on the path of Your arrival. Baba, since then how many days and how many nights have passed– I have no calculation. Why is it that You did not come. You must have taken a strong vow not to come. But by Your grace today You have broken that vow– and that is why You are coming. It is Your grace.

Baba, we are so very close; we have been together since the dawn of creation. Your and my introduction did not only happen hundreds and thousands of years ago. O’ all-pervading Entity, all along– each and every moment– You have secretly been with me, since the beginning of time. Baba, always You have remained by my side.

Baba, today You blessed me in my dhyana and You told me that You are coming to my house. This is Your causeless grace…

 

 

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Slowly Moving Towards Cemetery

 

Baba says, “Human beings often attach less importance to the spiritual aspect of nitya karma and more importance to the physical aspect. This is detrimental because one should not forget that human life is short. From the moment of birth one slowly and steadily advances towards death with every passing second. This short period of time from birth to death is human life. Human beings have come from the world of invisibility and at the end of this short span of time will return to the world of invisibility. Those people can be called intelligent who utilize every moment of their short life engaged in spiritual practice.” (APH-4, p. 251)

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Do You Know This New Dogma?

Date: Sat, 24 Apr 2010 22:54:19
To: AM-GLOBAL
From: V.J.K. Rajpurhit
Subject: Do You Know This New Dogma?

Baba

“A’mi toma’y bha’loba’si, ja’na’i kii kare…” (PS 3837)

Purport:

Baba, by Your grace I love You. For me You are everything; I love You
so much. You know my eyes ceaselessly shower tears of love for You.
Baba, please tell me how I can express this feeling of my heart:
That I love You. O’ my dearmost, the love of my heart resonates in
Your heart. By that way You understand. Beyond that I do not have
any words to express my feeling of love towards You.

Baba, You are so gracious. When the new dawn comes then in the crimson
sunrise by Your grace I can see You emanating Your divine effulgence.
Baba, You are so beautiful; You shower Your effulgence everywhere. In
the form of innumerable flowers and also in the fragrance of niipa
blossom, You grace everyone by pouring Your divine sweetness.

Baba, in the eastern crimson horizon through the sweet, gentle breeze,
You tenderly call me and graciously embrace me in Your bosom. Baba,
in the auspicious and charming moment of the colourful evening sunset, with
Your infinite love You always radiate Your sweet smile. That very time
You reassuringly tell me again and again that, ‘Now is the time for you
to take rest, tomorrow I will come calling for You’. These are the sweet
words You whisper to me in that divine moment. Baba You are so gracious
You are always with me. Baba, Your charming and gracious tales and love
stories always float throughout this entire universe and also in my
mind, in my heart.

Baba, You are my everything; I love You so much…

Note: Baba says love (prema) is not unilateral or one-sided. Rather when
the devotee loves Parama Purusa, the Parama Purusa loves the bhakta–
whether any response comes from Parama Purusa or not. The inner equation
is that Because Parama Purusa loves the devotee so much, that is why the
devotee also loves Parama Purusa. Divine love or prema is always
mutual– not unilateral. In so many discourses Baba has revealed this
fact about the inner secret of love between devotee and Parama Purusa.
Here we should remember that prema means divine love– not attachment
(ks’ama) for worldly things etc. And it is specifically in this
devotional relation between bhakta and Bhagawan where love is always
mutual and never one sided.

Baba says, “Human beings love Parama Purus’a and He loves human beings:
this love is always mutual, not unilateral.” (SS-11, ‘What is the Way’)

Baba says, “The desire in your mind to meet God is only born when He is
inclined towards you. It is the result of His desire to meet you. Your
meeting with God is not a unilateral affair, it is a mutual thing.”
(AV-23, p.123)

== DO YOU KNOW THIS NEW DOGMA ==

Namaskar,
Unfortunately, a disturbing trend has been in vogue at one group’s DMS
gatherings the past few years, if not longer.

One might think that some typical groupist power ploy is being done, but
actually the situation is worse than that. It is really quite serious.
Even the other factions have not stooped this low.

We should all be aware and ready to unitedly solve the problem.

OURS IS A UNIVERSAL MISSION

As we know, ours is a universal mission. Baba’s teachings are for all.
It is not that some of Baba’s teachings apply to one segment of the
population and other teachings are for another.

Baba’s entire AM ideology is meant to be shared with all, irrespective
of race, creed, gender, nationality etc.

But at one DMS program it is not happening that way.

ONGOING DOGMA AT JAMALPUR DMS

The ongoing scene at Jamalpur DMS is that they are only singing those
few Prabhat Samgiita that were written in Angika language. That means
the Ranchi group leaders are only willing to allow the 5 or 8 Angika
songs to be sung at this DMS – because Angika is the native tongue to
Jamalpur.

Here let me say that I personally love the Angika language and regularly
sing those Prabhat Samgiita compilations that were written in Angika.

Yet, as we all know, in total, Baba has composed 5,018 songs that cover
the entire gamut of human consciousness and realisation, as well as all
aspects of nature and social occasions. All songs are to be sung by all
– they are not to be divided or rejected due to one’s language group etc.

Tragically, though, that is what is being done at this DMS function.

The ramifications of this policy are quite extreme and we will examine
that. First, however we should consult Baba’s divine teachings on language.

SIX STAGES OF EXPRESSION

In His discourse, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 3, Baba neatly
outlines the six stages of expression and shows how all languages have
the same origin.

Baba says, “There are six stages to the expression of language: para’,
pashyantii, madhya’ma’, dyotama’na’, vaekharii and shrutigocara’.” (NHNS-2)

Then Baba goes on to explain how from the muladhara cakra to the anahata
cakra, every language is the same. From (1) the seed of an idea to (2)
the sprouting of an idea to (3) the picture of an idea and the urge to
speak and (4) to the initial vibration, this process is the same
regardless of the language group.

Or think of it this way. Let’s say two persons speak different languages
and both are thirsty. Then they will both have the same idea of thirst.
They will have the same feeling of wanting to drink something. They will
both cultivate the image of water in their mind. And they will both
desire to express the idea that I am thirsty. All that is the same. Only
their vocal presentation or wording will differ.

Baba says, ‘Para’ shakti, the seed of all expression, lies in the
muladhara cakra, but the seed is not transformed into language. It is
just the seed of the idea. This is called para’ in Sam’skrta.
Pashyantii, the stage where the seed of the idea sprouts, lies in the
next higher cakra, that is the svadis’tha’na. In the next stage,
madhya’ma’, the idea is consolidated to give a picture to it. That is to
say, people visualise the form of the idea they want to convey. In the
man’ipura cakra there is an urge to transform the idea into sound
form…In the next stage, that is dyotama’na’, the idea acquires the
form of language. Dyotama’na’ means vibrational. In this stage there is
some vibrational expression but the exact word is not formed. In the
fifth stage, when the vibration reaches the vocal cord, the idea gets
transformed into language. This is vaekharii shakti or the
transformation of ideas into language. The last stage is called
shrutigocara’ and occurs when the word gets vocalized with the help of
the tongue.” (NHNS-2)

Baba says, ,”In all languages para’, pashyantii, madhya’ma’ and
dyotama’na’ are uniform. Only in the fifth and sixth stages is the
expression different.” (NHNS-2)

For more details read the book.

Or another way is that if you do not understand what Baba is saying then
here is the idea: If two persons speak different languages yet both are
thirsty then they will both have the same idea, feeling, and image of
water – only their wording is different. Because all languages share the
same source.

By this entire science, it is quite clear that language is just the
outer layer of human expression. Before any word is spoken or sung,
there is a great universal process going on. That is why we appreciate
all languages, only superficial distinctions exist from one language to
the next. Their inner feeling is the same.

To divide or reject Baba’s teachings based on which language He spoke is
not our way. As His disciples we are universally embracing the idea of
His teachings, not selecting or rejecting them on the basis of language.

To only sing 5 or 8 songs from His Prabhat Samgiita collection and
reject all others because of their language is to miss out on Baba’s
great gift to humanity as well as His personal instructions to you as a
sadhaka.

As His disciples, we should be eager to learn and sing all of Baba’s
Prabhat Samgiita. Each song carries a special idea and teaching for a
sadhaka’s social and spiritual development.

And indeed there is a wide array of songs: Melancholic, special
occasions, dhyana, neo-humanism, change of seasons, Prout, social
consciousness, fighting dogma, creation theory or sristi cakra, Ananda
Purnima, mysticism, dance, music, art, and so much more. The lists goes
on and on.

The limited number of songs written in Angika do not carry all these
teachings. The Prabhat Samgiita in Angika do not represent every
occasions and realisation.

Thus to choose songs based on the language in which they were written is
nothing but narrow-minded and short-sighted.

The only question that does arise is this: Why were most songs in Baba’s
Prabhat Samgiita collection written in Bangla? The answer is that He
wants to teach us that the language in which He most frequently spoke
should be used for poetry and similar forms of expression.

ALL LANGUAGES ARE THE SAME

Here Baba outrightly proclaims that all the 7,500 languages on this
earth are His language and hence we are to embrace them all. Baba
furthermore condemns the idea of dividing humanity or His teachings due
to language.

Baba says, “One should remember that all languages are the languages of
Parama Purus’a. I may master perhaps one, two, three or maybe 100 or 300
of these languages, but it does not mean that the languages I do not
know are not the languages of Parama Purus’a. Hence, it is absurd to
divide humanity on the basis of language.” (AFPS-3)

However, because of their narrow-mindedness, one group is outrightly
rejecting Baba’s divine gift for humanity by not allowing the vast gamut
of Baba’s Prabhat Samgiita compositions to be sung at DMS.

Or how else can we describe the situation.

HORRIBLE RAMIFICATIONS

Here is one way of putting things into perspective.

Baba’s divine composition contain golden nuggets of teachings and
devotional expression. Every sadhaka should become versed in all the
songs to get the benefit.

To only learn certain songs based on language is just plain silly and
short-sighted. In that case Spanish speaking margiis would not sing any
Prabhat Samgiita since none were written in Spanish – that is the
message the Ranchi teams is perpetuating. Those groupists only think for
their own group interests and do not realise how they are harming the
society at large.

If we were to apply their silly formula to other facets of AM ideology
it would look something like this.

Those margiis in Athens, Greece, would only follow one or two of Baba’s
discourses and reject the rest of Baba’s teachings because only 1 or 2
discourses were delivered in Athens.

Likewise those in Caracas (Venezuela) or Kaohsiung (Taiwan) would only
adhere to those discourses delivered in their areas. Thus they would be
bereft of Sixteen Points, yama and niyama, and thousands of other
eternal teachings.

And those in Suva sector would outrightly reject all of Baba’s
discourses since He he did not deliver any discourses in Australia or
New Zealand. In that case, those margiis might decide to only follow
those teachings of Baba which they got in their dream.

Those grouipists are giving this teaching and lesson to others and I am
afraid others may do like this.

Indeed some misguided jinanis have already twisted The Supreme Command
and soon others may translated their ista mantra or Baba Nam Kevalam.

That is the dogmatic message that Ranchi is sending around the globe by
their actions at the Jamalpur DMS gathering.

Such is the sheer silliness of those in Ranchi who are essentially
banning more than 5000 Prabhat Samgiita songs from the Jamalpur DMS. B
group has done many wrongs and violated countless dharmic codes, but at
least on this point, the Tiljala team welcomes all of Baba’s divine
Prabhat Samgiita songs – all are sung at gatherings in Kolkata. Or at
least, it always was like that. If anyone has different information then
let me know.

BABA’S EXAMPLE OF DMC

Let us remember that when Baba held DMC in Rajasthan, Bombay, Fiesh, or
in any area then the DMC logistical announcements were in the local
language primarily, but on the dharmic front, the vast array of Prabhat
Samgiita were all sung, regardless of the language. On this point Baba
did not compromise.

Likewise, samgacchadhvam and all chants were done in their original
language as well. Those things were not omitted or translated because of
where the DMC was held.

Today’s DMS programs should reflect this same universal quality. That is
what Baba wants – we should follow His example. It is not that only
Angika Prabhat Samgiita should be sung in Jamalpur or that Guru Puja
should be chanted in English at DMS in NY Sector.

DMS is a mix of people from all over the globe and all should be welcome
and allowed to experience the universal spirit of Baba’s teachings. No
groupist dogma should limit the expression of our DMS programs.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace, He has blessed us with a vast array of universal
teachings, including Prabhat Samgiita. All margiis are to raise their
voice against the dogmatic scene at the Jamalpur DMS program.

We should remember that it is very easy to implement dogma. Those
egotistical groupists who do not know what Baba wants often invent and
impose their own dogma. That is what is happening at the Jamalpur DMS
program.

But we should not allow it to continue.

We should follow Baba’s teachings that all languages are our language
and we should sing all His Prabhat Samgiita songs at our AM functions,
irregardless of the language in which they were composed.

Baba says, “The human race has numerous languages. Each language is our
language, the language of all of us. In this context sentiments such as,
“My language; your language” or, “Indigenous language; foreign language”
are extremely defective. Only this much can be said: that we have many
languages, but I can express myself in one or more than one language
among them.” (POD #20)

Namaskar,
Vidyasagar

******************************************
Cause of Degeneration

Baba says, “Very often people become victims of disappointment for the sole
reason that they forget their goal of life. If they look towards their goal,
then their disappointments and frustrations will cease…The
tragedy is that in their foolish effort to walk alone, people often
stumble and fall down.” (SS-12, p.5)

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Difference Between Half & Full Sadhana

Date: Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:46:42
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Difference Between Half & Full Sadhana
From: Jiivendra

Baba

PS Intro: This song describes the feeling of one higher stage of devotional
realization.

“Prabhu, toma’y kii kahibo a’ro…” P.S. 447

Purport:

Baba, oh Prabhu, I love You so much. How can I express the deep love
of my heart to You. Words alone fail to describe the feeling. With my vocal
chords I cannot express the grace which You have showered on me. Baba, You
have permanently drenched me in Your ahetuki krpa’. Since I have gotten You
in my life, my life has become meaningful. I do not have any other type of
longing in my mind except You. Baba, by Your grace, my mind is running
always towards You & You alone. Baba, You have made my life blissful, in
all the ways. It is just as if my whole existence is full of nectar.

O’ my dearmost, the cimmerian darkness has vanished from my life;
those black days have gone far, far away. There is no longer any trace of
them. This has all happened since the divine effulgence descended in my
life by Your grace.

Baba, according to Your tune, melody, and rhythm, I am dancing. My
days and nights and my entire life has become just like one bouquet of
songs. Not even a wee-bit of dilemma or confusion is existing in my life.
By Your infinite grace my mind is perfectly straight. This is all because
of Your boundless karuna’.

Baba, my whole existence– my body, mind, and prana– is vibrating
with the spiritual waves which You have generated by Your sweet touch.
Baba, I have gotten You by Your grace. You have graced me immensely. Baba,
I fully surrender myself at Your lotus feet…

== DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HALF & FULL SADHANA ==

Namaskar,
In our AM approach, sadhana is looked upon as the cream of all our
practices. It is the greatest endeavour of our human existence. And of
course per Baba’s divine teaching we all practice our meditation lessons
twice daily, at minimum. This is His Supreme Command as well as the nectar
of our spiritual life.

In our daily lives it cannot be denied however that we have innumerable
duties to attend to and countless tasks to perform. Sometimes it can seem
as though our worldly responsibilities are endless– or nearly so.
Fortunately, while engaging in these occupations we can keep the mind
vibrated in His thought by doing half-sadhana. That is another one of our
jewels of meditation.

So even though we may not be able to close our eyes and sit for meditation
each and every minute of each and every day, through the practice of
half-sadhana we can keep that sweet spiritual flow in tact, by His grace.

IMPORTANCE OF SADHANA

Of course all acknowledge the great value of sadhana. However still there
is a certain trend in AM where some think about doing sadhana without ever
really sitting down to do meditation. That is they read about sadhana or
talk with others about spirituality etc, but they never seem to get the
time to really sit down and immerse the mind in long, silent sadhana
sessions. For them it remains just a dream only. This happens to some in
our Marga.

Here below Baba gives the teaching that just reading and talking about
spiritual discourses will not bring one closer to the Goal, to Him. To gain
success in spiritual life one must commit themselves to the practice of
sadhana.

“Na’yama’tma’ balahiinema labhyah…”

Baba says, “The A’tma’n cannot be attained by the immoralist or the
materialist.And the one who listens to learned discourses or reads the scriptures in
the hope of realizing the A’tma’n with the help of keen intellect will
surely be disappointed.”
“How can one know the A’tma’? The answer is, by performing spiritual
practice (sa’dhana’) with devotion and sincerity. For human beings
spiritual practice in individual life is mandatory. Without sa’dhana’ one
cannot expect to make any progress. If one learns the secrets of spiritual
practice from a learned preceptor and practices regularly one will realize
intuitively the existence of the Supreme Cognitive Faculty.” (TK-3)

So, according to Baba, dedicated & sustained efforts in the discipline of
meditation are needed in order to advance along the spiritual path. Without
sadhana progress is impossible.

And here again in the following passage Baba emphasizes the need to deeply
engage in sadhana if one hopes to get Him.

Baba says, “To realize Him one must direct all one’s sentiments and
propensities – in fact the entire psychic flow with its integral outlook –
towards one’s inner existence. Only on this path of supreme synthesis can
human beings attain the Supreme Entity and transcend the bondages of pain
and pleasure, old age, death, etc.” (APH-5)

Thus in so many ways we can see that sadhana is the key aspect for
spiritual growth and development. And without doing deep sadhana, one will
never really feel His sweet grace. That is Baba’s teaching.

OUR APPROACH IN FULL SADHANA

And sure enough, sadhana is the main ingredient of our spiritual lives.
Plus it has to be recognised that in our AM sadhana we follow a very
systematic approach.

In our twice daily meditation, we close the eyes, fold back the tongue, and
shut down the external senses through the practice of pratyhara– by
performing the three shuddhis as we embark on our meditation. And
ultimately we bring the mind to one particular point, cultivate that great
devotional feeling of loving Him, and ensconce the mind in the repetition
of our mantra. When doing first lesson then the mind is immersed in the
ista cakra and when doing dhyana the mind is absorbed in Guru cakra. This
every practitioner of sahaja yoga understands. And in a nutshell this is
how we approach our regular sadhana practice.

SOME OF THE BASICS OF HALF-SADHANA

Of course, from morning till night we have so many other worldly plans and
programs to attend to. In that case the practice of half-sadhana is
invaluable. Because this can be done anytime throughout the day since in
half-sadhana the eyes remain open.

Exactly when is it that we can do half-sadhana? While walking, cooking,
driving, washing clothes, doing errands, commuting, cleaning, and
innumerable times throughout the day.

So half-meditation is quite a handy approach.

And while here we will go through the various aspects of half-meditation,
the chief difference between full sadhana and half-sadhana is that in
half-meditation we do not keep the mind fixed on a particular cakra. Reason
being that in half-meditation we are involved in various worldly works so
the eyes must remain open, not closed, in which case keeping the mind
introverted at a particular point is not really possible.

HOW HALF-SADHANA CAN BE DONE

As you probably already know, when doing half-sadhana using our ista mantra
then we skip over the shuddhis that we normally do in first lesson and go
right into the phase of cultivating that devotional longing for Baba. And
then with the eyes open we repeat our ista mantra, not necessarily
concentrating on any particular cakra. Just however one feels comfortable
one should engage in their mantra japa and generate that sweet link with
Him– all the while keeping one’s eyes open and attending to their worldly
duties.

Our approach to doing half-dhyana is similar. Here again we bypass the
shuddhis and delve right into the devotional flow, cultivating that
yearning and longing for Him. And then we start repeating our dhyana mantra
again and again, feeling His divine presence all around us. Since the eyes
are open and we are not focused on any particular cakra, then we can think
that He is watching all our movements. Or we can think that we are just
moving through the day with Him right by our side. The main point being
that He is along with us and we are repeating our dhyana mantra– tangibly
feeling His sweet presence.

ONE OTHER DIFFERENCE

One other aspect of half-sadhana that is different from full sadhana is
that in half-sadhana the mantra need not be coordinated with the breath.
Rather one can just go on repeating the mantra at any pace they like– fast
or slow, irregardless of one’s breathing pattern. In this practice, both
fast and slow mantra repetition have their distinct benefits. On this point
everyone can experiment.

KINDLING THE PRACTICE

So this is our basic approach in half-sadhana. Since we are all sadhakas
then most if not all of these points are not new to any of us. Even then
perhaps this reminder will help enable us to do this devotional practice
more and more throughout the day. For it is the practice that makes it real
& blissful. Just knowing about intellectually but not doing it leaves the
mind dry & barren.

Thus as we engage in our practice of half-meditation then all are
encouraged to write in with any new points which they discover– or just
describe the feeling that comes when doing half-meditation. Reflect on what
way it changes the day.

One other thing that sadhakas often find is that by doing half-sadhana
regularly throughout the day then when they sit down for their full
meditation then their mind quickly immerses in that flow– making the
shuddhis almost effortless and the practice of mantra japa blissful. So
that is another wonderful benefit of half-meditation– it complements our
twice daily full sadhana practice.

ONLY THE BRAVE DO SADHANA

Whether we are talking about half-meditation or full meditation, one thing
is certainly proven: That meditation is only for the brave. This is Baba’s
divine guideline.

“Na’yama’tma’ balahiinena labhyo…”

Baba says, “Those who are weak, i.e., who have neither spiritual nor mental
force, do not achieve intuitional knowledge. The timid and cowardly remain
remote from Brahmabha’va or cosmic ideation.” (SS-2, p.46)

So it is only the courageous who immerse their minds in the practice of
sadhana and get that divine bliss; while those who are meek or wishy-washy
types just gossip about doing sadhana.

By practicing half-sadhana and by adhering to His supreme command of twice
daily meditation, we actively immerse ourselves in His thought and proceed
towards that Cosmic Nucleus thereby getting His divine touch, by His grace.

BABA’S BLESSING

In bestowing upon us the practice of dharma sadhana, Baba has truly
showered His greatest blessing on us all. May we realise Him fully.

Baba says, “When the mind transcends the barriers of intellect the
realization dawns in human beings that they cannot reach the abode of the
Supreme Entity through material science or philosophy, but through
intuition alone. Supreme blessedness lies in the unfoldment of intuition.
Those who are graced with intuition, even though they may be totally
illiterate, can reach the Supreme rank, thereby establishing themselves in
a state of perennial blessedness. The greatest pandits, however, become
lost in the labyrinth of logic, and even though they try to find a way out,
they finally attain nothing.” (AMIWL-9, p.640)

Namaskar,
Jiivendra

Note 1: SADHANA NOT TALL TALKS

Here below Baba is guiding us that He can only be attained through the
practice of sadhana– not by high-sounding talks etc.

Baba says, “You cannot get that Supreme Entity by tall talk. Na medhaya´ –
Not by your intellect. Na bahuna´ shrutena – Nor by reading or going
through so many books or lectures…Do your sa’dhana’, do your sa’dha’na’,
do your sa’dhana’…Get it by doing sa’dhana’.” (AV-23, p.23-4)

Note 2: SYSTEMATIC SADHANA MAKES ONE UNDEFEATABLE

Baba has blessed us with a perfect system of meditation and by doing all
the lessons on a regular basis then we are sure to attain success– never
to be defeated.

Baba says, “You have learnt a well-ordered system of meditation and other
spiritual practices based on dharma. If any individuals or groups, however
powerful they may be, try to suppress you or even succeed in suppressing
you, they are bound to be destroyed. History has witnessed many such a
downfall in the past. No one has ever been victorious or will ever be
victorious by opposing dharma. March ahead with your own strength, march
with firm steps and your head held high. Always remember that when dharma
is with you, whoever will oppose you will be razed to the ground – their
destruction is a must.” (AV-4)

**********************************
Brave Persons

Baba says, “Do not remain worried about your individual problems at all.
Be prepared to carry your own burden and be prepared also to carry the
burdens of others. Then alone are you brave. Be dagdhabiija. Everyone
has their own individual problems. Do not try to pass them on to others.
On the contrary, bear the burdens of others. No one is your enemy. Be
ready to bear the burdens of others.” (AV-30, p.4)
**********************************

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What Every New Sadhaka Should Know: Part 1

Date: 21 Mar 2010 14:49:01 -0000
From: “Chandramohan Jha”
To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: What Every New Sadhaka Should Know: Part 1

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, 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, thinking
about You, my is mind 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, thinking about You, is
my mind 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.

== WHAT EVERY NEW SADHAKA SHOULD KNOW ==

Namsakar,
This letter, the first in a series, focuses on an array of important
points for new sadhakas to know. After all. AM pracar is one of our
first and foremost duties.

Baba says, “…It is the bounden duty of every Ananda Margiis to
endeavour to bring all to the path of bliss…” (Supreme Command)

To this end, a few senior margiis gathered and came up with a few points
– intellectual and devotional – that will be helpful for us to propagate
to new people as they come onto the path. These points will be presented
in an ongoing series of letters.

Please do share your experiences and thoughts as well – because we all
have taken the duty and responsibility under Guru to do pracar and
everyone has their own particular talents, skills and knowledge in this
important arena.

“AS YOU THINK, SO YOU BECOME”

Ya’drshii bha’vana’ yasya siddhirbhavati ta’drshii

Baba says, “As you think, so you become.” (AV-12)

Baba has given this seemingly simple guideline in a number of
discourses. Some new people may have heard or read this and think they
understand. Other new people may not have yet come across it.

We should ensure that every new sadhaka understands the full import of
this teaching because this is one of the very revolutionary aspects of
Ananda Marga.

These days, with the great popularity of yoga, most yoga groups solely
focus on the physical, or they may include their own interpretation of
pranayama as well.

Only AM offers the full system for transforming one’s person into
godhood. And the above guideline, “as you think so you become”, is
instrumental to our approach.

HOW IT WORKS: Part 1

When Baba says, “as you think so you become”, He is telling us that we
must have some control or restraint in our thinking.

If one thinks of something mundane or crude they will transform into
that object – step by step. That is one part of the equation.

Baba says, “It is the natural wont of the mind to take the shape of its
object of meditation. If the object of worship is crude, say money or
any crude thing, the mind takes the shape of that crude thing in the
course of time.” (Baba in Fiesch)

And not just money, in this materialistic era people’s minds are riddled
by all kinds of thoughts: name, fame, jealousy, stress, anger, sex,
fear, enemies, disease and so much more. And by thinking in this way,
part, or even all of their mind, gets consumed in that thing. By that
way, the problem festers and grows.

Wild or uncontrolled thinking is one of the main causes of both psychic
and physical diseases in materialistic societies.

Those new to the path of sadhana – and even those not yet on the path –
should be informed of the adverse effects of this equation, “As you
think so you become.”

HOW IT WORKS: Part 2

Then there is the other side of the equation: If we refine our thoughts
to focus in a spiritual manner we will move towards the Supreme.

This also we should preach and teach to every new sadhaka. By this way
they can not only free the mind of so many fetters and distractions, but
one can truly move ahead on the spiritual path.

In AM, that is exactly what our system of sadhana is – a methodical
manner of thinking wherein the mind focuses on the Ista.

Baba says, “Concentrated thinking is called “meditation”… In spiritual
parlance, when the mental flow is directed towards the goal, that is,
the Supreme Entity, it is called “concentration”, but in metaphysical
terms, it is a concept of dharma. Concentrated thinking leads to the
development of positive ideas…in the process of constant mental flow
towards the goal. In the process of meditation the following things are
involved – brain cells, apexed or pinnacled psychology, concentrated
thinking, Guru cakra and ultimate devotion.” (YP)

Thus concentrated thinking is a integral part of our approach. By this
way one can transform their entire existence. Even those who are
terribly depressed and anxiety ridden can become stellar sadhakas
through this method. And this is unique to AM. No one else other than
Baba highlights the sublime importance of thinking.

So those new to AM should understand that they will not get this
teaching nor this practice on other paths and they should clearly
understand and experience the dynamism of this practice.

Our mantra japa in first lesson or sixth lesson is the culminating
practice of, “as you think so you become.” By bringing the mind back
again and again to the idea of the mantra and training the mind to
maintain that flow, then one’s entire physical, psychic and spiritual
existence gets transformed. Then one veritably becomes divine. Then one
becomes Parama Purusa. That is Baba’s teaching for every sadhaka to
realise – new or old.

BABA’S MANDATE

Because this principle – as you think so you become – is such an
important guideline Baba reminds us of this again and again.

Baba says, “I told you, or I have been telling you, that a man takes the
form of his psychic object; that is, your very existence will be
converted into your psychic object. You should select your psychic
object very carefully.” (AV-12)

Really then, we should share the import of this concept with all new
sadhakas. By this way we too may become more aware of the use of our
mantra, either during and / or after sadhana.

As pracarakas, this equation – as you think so you become – is one
important point of our approach. So many in the world nowadays are
looking for something new. And our Marga has all the practices they need
to transform their life.

So those being introduced to na’ma mantra meditation or first lesson or
even just kiirtan, should be made aware of the profound effects of this
subtle science.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with the practical method of how to
ideate on Him. We should share this technique with one and all. We
should never allow others to settle for any lesser approach. It is
everyone’s birthright to get Him – by their thoughts alone, one can
attain His eternal shelter, by His grace.

Baba says, ‘It is also stated in Tantra that if a person wants only to
attain limited progress, one may practise on certain limited ideas. But
those who are genuine seekers of Brahma will never agree to worship any
finite idea. Those who want the Supreme Entity will have to ideate on
Parama Purus’a alone. People may attain limited achievement in terms of
occult power through the grace of the gods and goddesses, but they will
remain far away from the attainment of the Supreme Entity.” (DT-1)

Namaskar,
Chandramohan

Note 1: IDOL WORSHIP IS THE WORST

Here Baba points out the very negative effect of dogmatic idol worship.
But none should think this adverse reaction is limited to idol worship.
Any persistent engagement in crude thoughts (sex, money, greed,
jealousy, etc) will turn one into negative microvita.

Baba says, ““If idols made of wood, clay, iron or any other metal are
accepted as objects of meditation, then what will be the result?” It is
said, Ya’drshii bha’vana’ yasya siddhirbhavati ta’drshii [“As you think,
so you become”]. The aspirants’ own entitative existence will be turned
into clay, metal or wood – a state which in the scriptures is called
Prakrtiliina [negative microvita]. It is a dreadful state.” (SS-11)

Note 2: SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

Please write in with your thoughts regarding what you feel is very
important to impart to new people on the path.

Read Full Post »

Getting Rid of the Dogma

Date: Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:42:06 +0530
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: “Priyanath C Mittra”
Subject: Getting Rid of the Dogma

Baba

“Prabhu toma’r liila’ apa’r, buddhite ke bujhite pa’re…” (PS 507)

Purport:

O’ Prabhu, Your divine liila is beyond all human comprehension. Merely
relying upon one’s own minute intellect, who can understand Your vast
cosmic liila– no one. Baba, You are present in form as well as in the
unexpressed universe. You reside within everything and You are also
surrounding each and every one. Baba, You are infinite.

Baba, by Your grace You are present in the depths of the deep blue ocean
as well as in the whiteish fog of the tall mountain peaks. Whereever I look
or see and even in the places that I cannot see, everything resides within
Your mind.

Baba, You are present in the poreless stone and lac and You are also
present in the revolving seasons. You are in the mobile as well as immobile
entities; You are everywhere. Baba, whatever I think and even what I do not
think, everything resides within Your mind. Baba, You are so vast.

Baba, Your liila is fathomless; I long for Your causeless grace; Baba, I
want Your shelter, please grace me…

== GETTING RID OF THE DOGMA ==

PRESENT AND PAST HISTORY OF FAKE ANANDA VANIIS

Namaskar,
One by one we are undoing and getting rid of the dogmas which various
group leaders created after 1990. Dogmatic Mahaprayan is on the way out;
the false phrase ‘Translated from the Original Bengali’ has been removed
from our AM Books; and now it is time to make one final push and get rid
of the Fake Ananda Vaniis.

SPECIALITY OF ORIGINAL VANIIS

We all know that the original and true Ananda Vaniis are golden bullets of
inspiration that inspire us to move ahead, overcome all obstacles, and lead
the humanity into the new crimson dawn. So Baba’s Ananda Vaniis are truly
unique. Even then some groupist leaders are thinking that they can create
their own false versions– and have come up with a tainted formula for
doing so.

IS SIZE THE ONLY FACTOR?

Some may be thinking that:

‘Because Ananda Vaniis are small, since they are just one or two
paragraphs, so therefore to make one new Ananda Vanii, just take one Baba’s
discourse and select one tiny paragraph out of that. And that will be an
“Ananda Vanii”.’

A few may be thinking in this above distorted manner.

And indeed if anybody sees superficially then they will say that ‘Ok, true
Ananda Vaniis are generally one or sometimes two paragraphs. So the ruling
group or subgroup– whether B or H, Biharii, or non-Biharii etc– did fine
by collecting some excerpts or quotations from Baba’s long discourses. So
on the basis of size, their fake Ananda Vanii is ok.’ This is just one
misguided outlook.

So some may get confused because the the length of the true Ananda Vaniis
and the length of the fake Ananda Vaniis is the same. Means, the length of
Baba’s true Ananda Vaniis are one or two paragraphs, and in the same way
from the discourse various group leaderss select one paragraphs to create
their Fake Ananda Vanii. And then they stick on the name– Ananda Vanii–
when in fact what they are sending out is just a Fake Ananda Vanii.

Here the main ideas is that on the point of length or counting of words,
certain quotes and true Ananda Vaniis may be similar– in length. But
length is not the only criteria to measure anything. If you start valuing
anything with its length, then that will be a foolish approach.

A FEW COLORFUL EXAMPLES

For example, suppose, you chop the trunk of the elephant and you start
calling it a horse, who can believe that? Or, you chop a little bit from
the legs of the camel and then start calling it a cow. Because the camel
was a high animal. This type of logic, only babies or crazy people can
accept. Not anyone else.

Or taking the example of a car, you remove two wheels from that car. And
with the remaining two wheels you proclaim that “This car is now a
motorcycle. Because it has only two wheels. As, a motorbike has also two
wheels and now this car only two — so it is now a motorcycle.” All this
type of reasoning is nonsense.

LENGTH NOT THE ONLY CRITERIA

Surely this approach will be a foolish approach if anybody does the above.
Just like, in the motorbike, only two wheels is not its sole
characteristic. Similarly in the true Ananda Vanii, its length is not its
only criteria. It has many more things, which we never find in those Fake
Ananda Vaniis which are mere selections from a bigger discourse. That is
why Baba designated the true Ananda Vanii as something unique– as “Ananda
Vanii”. So, this is unparalleled.

FAKE ANANDA VANII IS BORN

It is known that when Sarvatmanandaji was initially struggling to find out
some formula to create his fake Ananda Vaniis, then he finally devised his
plan & he called a CC meeting in order to generate group support.

And during the CC meeting they were all were thinking of a solution to
continue the tradition of Ananda Vanii. After long discussion, then one
great idea was put forth by one of Sarvatmanandji’s trusted pawns. He told,
“Don’t worry. Here is a unique idea to create fake Ananda Vaniis. Because
the length of Ananda Vanii is small, one or two paragraphs. So take Baba’s
discourse. Select one or two paragraphs. And the length of this new
paragraph is the same as that of real Ananda Vaniis. And then just call
this new para as ‘Ananda Vanii’.”

Listening this, all the CC Purodhas clapped and accepted this idea. And
since then, this selection of a few paragraphs from Baba’s discourses and
passing to margiis as a new Ananda Vanii of “Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiiji” of
every year, is coming.

And H group has adopted this same model of Fake Ananda Vaniis. So now
multiple fake Ananda Vaniis are being presented each time. This is the
ongoing drama by such group and sub-group leaders.

REALISING IT IS FAKE

Of course now after critical analysis margiis are realizing that (A) Ananda
Vaniis and (B) certain quotes of the discourses, are two different things,
not one.

In other words we can say, the current formula to produce fake Ananda
Vaniis is similar to these above noted animal examples. Take some discourse
and select one or two paragraphs and put the title “Ananda Vanii” and date
it ‘1st January, such-and-such year’. And – “Here it is, ready. New Ananda
Vanii”. How easy it is.

But those who are rational margiis and WTs, they understand that taking
some paragraphs of Baba’s discourse is just one quote. Neither it is a full
discourse, nor is it as pointed and conclusive as a true Ananda Vanii. So
at any cost, Baba’s quote cannot be called as “Baba’s Ananda Vanii”. And
they cannot be collected together with the “Ananda Vanii Samgraha” book.

WILL BE REJECTED BY FUTURE ANANDA MARGIIS

Altogether we have 74 true Ananda Vaniis. If we allow to go on adding every
year two quotes, two new fake Ananda Vaniis, then in the next millennium
the total of fake Ananda Vaniis will be more than two thousand. And the
true Ananda Vaniis already will remain only 74 in one book. So we have to
think. Carrying dogma is not good. Ultimately it will be thrown out by
future Ananda Margiis. Because Baba says, “Dogma no more no more”.

Here following is this divine teaching of Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji.
If we follow this, then no problem will remain on our path of
forward movement as the Fake Ananda Vaniis and other dogmas will be gone

Baba says, “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.” (AVM 8, p.51)

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s infinite grace and with the strength of many devoted margiis and
wts our Marga is going to rise up tall. None should think that our AM will
be forever sunk in groupism & dogma. It is sure that soon it will be dharma
exemplified.

Baba says, “Under no circumstances should human beings be pessimistic. That
is why I am always an incorrigible optimist, because I know that optimism
is life.” (AFPS-3)

Namaskar,
Priyanath

Note 1: CANNOT CREATE FAKE SUPREME COMMAND

Just as we cannot create a Fake Supreme Command from a few paragraphs of
His discourses. In the same way, we do not have the right to create some
fake Ananda Vaniis.

Note 2: GREATNESS OF TRUE ANANDA VANIIS

True Ananda Vaniis are unparalleled, full of spirit, and they give
the clarion call of marching song and victory. So that is the greatness of
Ananda Vanii.

Note 3: FIGHTING SPIRIT OF VANIIS

In the real Ananda Vaniis of Baba, He is inspiring strong fighting
tendency. To overcome injustice and exploitation in the society. But the
so-called Ananda Vaniis since 1991 never deal on this societal point. Or
if they do it is directed towards fighting against the opposite group, when
Baba’s idea is that we should not fight amongst ourselves, but rather against
dogma– i.e. against dogmas like Fake Ananda Vaniis.

Note 4: SOURCE OF INSPIRATION

We must be alert. We should take it seriously that in the name of
Ananda Vanii, certain groupist factions are trying to mislead margiis. To
avert and fix the situation of this current Ananda Vanii problem, we have
to depend on the real original treasure of true Ananda Vaniis. Such true
Ananda Vaniis are the eternal source of our inspiration.

***************************************
Negative Teacher

Baba says, “Karna’s teacher was Parasurama. One day Parasurama and Karna
were engaged in a conversation. Parasurama for some reason or other was
tired, and he fell asleep, laying his head on Karna’s lap. At that moment a
deadly insect gave a sharp bite to Karna’s thigh, and it started bleeding
profusely. Karna was in great pain, no doubt, but he neither made any sound
nor moved his legs even in the slightest, lest it should disturb the sleep
of his guru…Later, when Parasurama woke up, he wanted to know why there
was so much blood. Karna said, ‘This bleeding is due to the biting of a
deadly insect on my thigh.’ Parasurama asked him, ‘Then why didn’t you make
any sound, or move your legs, or even wake me up ?’ Karna said in reply ‘I
didn’t do all those things because it would have disturbed your sleep. To
disturb my guru’s sleep would be a sacrilege on my part. Hence I refrained
from doing anything like that.’ Then Parasurama said to him, ‘Since you
have so much power to endure pain, certainly you were not born in a vipra
family.’ Parasurama was under the mistaken impression that Karna was a
vipra by birth…’So you must have been born in a Non-Brahmin Family’ said
Parasurama.” (MHB, p.62-3)

Note 1: In the above teaching it is clear that the teaching of Parasurama
was inappropriate and sinful. Because he was selecting his students on the
basis of caste. A proper teacher never commits such sin. On this silly
ground, Parasurama cursed Karna and kicked him out from the ashram.

Note 2: Similar sinful things are going on in our present AM society. If
any WT is not an ardent follower of a particular group then they will not
get kapalik sadhana or vishesh yoga from those groupist leaders. Such
“leaders” who are depriving others of their spiritual rights are sinners.

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

Read Full Post »

You Are Chained – You Need Freedom

If this type of reverential approach is taken in sadhana twice daily, then regardless if one's sadhana is "good" or "bad", the bhakta is sure to attain liberation. That practice is enough to ensure that at the time of death one will think of Him, by His grace, in which case He will take away all remaining samskaras and grant liberation. That is Guru's most gracious promise and boon.

From: “Shantatma Kerketta”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: You Are Chained – You Need Freedom
Date: Mon 09 Nov 2009 11:38:42 +0530

Baba

PS Intro: In this following song the devotee is talking to Baba, all the
while indirectly referring about himself.

“Jeo na’, shon’o katha, bojha vytha’, abujha hoyo na’…” (PS 660)

Purport:

Baba, please be gracious, please do not leave me all alone, please do
not go far away; please keep me in Your shelter. Baba, please listen to
the tale of my aching heart; please understand my pain and suffering–
because of my deep longing for You. Baba, I beg You not to remain aloof
about my yearning and crying for You. Baba, You have graced me and have
made the flower of devotion blossom in my heart. And these flowers are
solely for making one beautiful garland for You– ultimately
surrendering them at Your lotus feet. Baba, please do not mercilessly
crush those flowers. Baba, please be gracious.

Baba, by Your infinite grace please keep me close. Please do not
permanently forget about that person who is under shelter day and night.
Baba, it seems You have removed him from Your memory. Baba, please
recall how in the past You loved him deeply up to his heart’s content.
That time You saturated his mind with bliss and filled his eyes with
Your loving gaze. You were so gracious those days. Baba, You know that
very person was with You in each and every rhythm of the song, he was
also with You in all kinds of works– always remaining by Your side.
Baba, please do not forget him.

Baba, by Your grace I never forget this eternal truth that You are
everything. You are the effulgence of the day as well as the darkness of
the night. Baba, in this life of mine I have loved only You. Baba, You
are the heart of my heart. Please shower Your divine grace on me day and
night, incessantly. Baba, even if You always remain forgetful of me,
that I can tolerate. Only I ask one thing of You. Baba, please do not
push me away from Your holy, lotus feet. Baba, You are my closest &
dearest One. You are my everything. Baba, please keep me in Your shelter…

== YOU ARE CHAINED – YOU NEED FREEDOM ==

Namaskar,
Every human being understands they are bound; they understand they are
not free.

A few ignorant people may believe they are free but if they think more
deeply then realise that they are not free.

Yatha’ laohamayaeh pa’shaeh…

Everyone is bound by samskaras and they have no choice but to face them:
Disease, old age, sickness, loneliness, death. Everyone tries to avoid
these afflictions but ultimately they are chained and shackled by those
samskaras. There is no other recourse – one must face such bondages.
That is what Baba is teaching in the above shloka.

But is there really no escape? Must one return again and again onto this
earth, thousands and millions of times, to face their karmaphala (fruits
of their actions)?

This letter explains both the science of bondage and the solution, as
given by Marga Guru in the Supreme Command. As the gracious Taraka
Brahma Baba has given the way out from this cycle of bondage of life and
death.

SAMSKARAS, SUPREME COMMAND & MORE

So long as one is alive, every sadhaka has samskaras. It is impossible
for a human being to walk this earth and not have any samskaras.
Samskaras and human life go hand in hand – one cannot exist without the
other.

In your life you surely have faced many things which you did not like
and will not like: Humiliation, disease, loss, and so many troubles.
These are all the karmic reactions of past samskaras.

The question then is: If up to the very minute of one’s death a person
is still bound by all these samskaras, then how can they achieve
liberation?

Specifically, how does the Supreme Command work? How can one attain
liberation when they are shackled by piles of samskaras waiting to take
expression.

We will explore the above conundrum as well as other critical aspects of
samskara theory & the Supreme Command – all done according to the
teachings and guidelines of Baba.

CREATING MORE & MORE SAMSKARAS

In more than a few discourses, Baba explains how in one life a typical
human being creates such a huge amount of samskaras that they cannot be
exhausted in the next 100 lifetimes. Compounding that by multiple lives
then makes for an enormous bundle of samskaras.

Baba says, “Human beings have been committing numerous crimes and sins
for lives together resulting in a huge pile of sins as high as the
Himalayas.” (AV-7)

From that perspective, human beings are creating huge numbers of
samskaras whereby we are totally bound, if not crippled by a mountain of
karmic reactions.

For instance, suppose in one second, a person harms someone and then
they may face the reaction of that misdeed for years or even lifetimes.
Or if a baby was sexually abused once by one adult, then that baby will
be scarred their entire life and the guilty party must undergo a whole
boatload of reactions for this single crime.

Or suppose in a fractions of a minute a person poisoned food and
subsequently killed one hundred people, then that samskara will be
reaped for hundreds of lifetimes.

Or what about those who kill animals for sport or food, and they are
totally oblivious that they are incurring sin. Indeed there are many
examples like that.

It happens in society too according to gender and race, such as with
slave owners etc. People feel they have the right to harrass others
because that is the social norm of the day, but they will face the
reaction for countless future lives.

All in all, the human mind is wrought with so many propensities and
inclinations and in their lifetime people chase after one desire after
another. Name, fame, sex, wealth, prestige, house, property, children,
food, dreams, vanity, fear etc. All day long your average human is fully
engrossed in these dealings. In a single day, a typical person might
create dozens or even hundreds of new samskaras.

Then Baba cites how most are involved in negative works. It is not like
the whole entire humanity is engulfed in benevolence. People are
thieving, looting, raping, grabbing etc. With their vanity ego they
harass others and do injustice and do not even realise how much they are
harming others.

So people acquire samskaras by the truckload day after day – even for
doing good actions.

But that is not all.

Finally, as soon as one creates a new samskara, then that samskara or
unexpressed reaction starts growing. It collects interest just like in
the case of a bank loan. So we have to pay back that samskara with
interest.

That means if a person steals Rs100 then depending on how much time goes
by they will have to lose or payback 200, 1,000, or even 1,000,000
rupees. It all depends how much time goes by before they undergo the
reaction. Sometimes the payback is not for several lifetimes. In that
case, just imagine the interest. What was a simple misdeed can balloon
into a massive debacle.

If you punch someone unjustly just once, then ten years later you may
get get beaten by so many bandits or gang members at the same time,
getting punched again and again. One may think, “I did not do anything
wrong, why is this happening?”, but this is samskara from earlier.

In various phases people face either good samskaras and bad samskaras.
Even though one may be facing a good samskara today, in the future one
may face a whole pile of bad samsakras. It all depends on what is more
conducive at a particular time.

A young person may think that “I will never get sick”, yet all the while
they have samskara for a terrible sickness and that samskara is waiting
for the right time or conducive moment to take expression. Then in the
bad days of one’s old age that disease will manifest. It is all about
having a conducive environment. Just a seed sprouts in the spring and
not in winter, same is the case with both good and bad samskaras. The
right environment is needed.

The whole scenario then is quite serious. Getting bound by samskaras is
an inevitable and involved process. It happens to everyone – period,
whether one is a sadhaka or not.

How then are we to escape this web – this intricate and burdensome
bundle of samskaras.

BABA’S GRACIOUS BOON ON SADHAKASLIBERATION IS A SURE GUARANTEE

Enter the Supreme Command.

We all say it each and every week, if not more frequently, “Those who
perform sadhana twice a day regularly, the thought of Parama Purusa will
arise in mind at the time of death; their liberation is a sure guarantee.”

Thus, in the Supreme Command, Baba guarantees liberation to all sadhakas
– irrespective of the bundle of samskaras that they are carrying. And
here’ s how it works.

At the time of death, one witnesses a movie-like series of images that
flashes across one’s citta covering their life’s events. Typically that
produces a range of thoughts and the common person will get glued to one
of those worldly thoughts.

Things like: Yelling, thievery, stealing, harassment, killing, as well
as good thoughts like feeding others. But the dominant thought that
comes most strongly is usually something negative – not a benevolent ideal.

Then as soon as their body expires, the person will be in search of a
new body that matches up with their prevailing thought, or samskara. In
that way common people get reborn as dogs, bugs, mice, humans, stones etc.

It does not happen to just humans. In Jamalpur, Baba did a demonstration
where He made Dasrathji a medium to see a margii’s past life. There was
a yogi doing meditation who got bit by one wasp. The yogi he killed that
wasp – there was no reaction for the yogi – and the wasp died with the
thought of the yogi in mind and was reborn as that margii sadhaka.

Here the point is that one’e rebirth depends on one’s mental colour or
dominant thought.

Baba says, “One acquires a physical body according to the nature of
one’s sam’ska’ras. A human being who behaves like a goat or a dog may be
born as a goat or a dog in the next life, because such an animal body is
the proper base for the congenial expression of the latent sam’ska’ras.
Hence it is not at all impossible for a human being to be reborn as a
hog, a worm, a tree, or even a piece of stone. One’s destiny will be
decided according to the nature of one’s karma – this is an infallible
law.” (AMIWL-7)

Plus in so many discourses Baba tells that those who ideate on money
turn into coin or dollars etc.

But with sadhakas, however, the process is entirely different.

Baba guides us that if one is earnest in doing sadhana twice a day, then
they will get liberation. How? Because normally at the time of death the
mind seeks a new body according to karmic law. But if one is involved in
the thought of Parama Purusa at the time of death, then the rules of
karma do not apply. Then one is not bound by their past actions and
potential reactions. Then the movie reel of negative deeds will not
appear in their mind at the time of death – only the thought of Him will
come. That is His grace. Then one will think nothing other than the
thought of Parama Purusa. In that state all samskaras get burned and the
sadhaka becomes one with Parama Purusa.

For that Baba wants that you must fulfill the guidelines of the the
Supreme Command. You do your duty of sadhana and He fulfllls His
guarantee of liberation. If the first half (i.e. sadhana) is not done
then second half (i.e. liberation) does not happen. Then the sadhaka is
bound.

On this aspect margiis are forunate and we should bring others onto the
path so they can save themselves from the horrors of samskaras and get
liberation. That is also part of the supreme command.

By His grace, when we do sadhana twice daily, then liberation is sure.
That is His divine compassion. Human beings alone cannot overcome all
those samskaras by themselves – His grace is needed. So then Baba
graciously dissolves all the remaining samskaras, and the sadhaka merges
in Him.

That is the special formula. And for it to happen, the pre-requisite is
twice a day sadhana.

One must try earnestly to do sadhana for 30 minutes each sitting- it
need not be perfect sadhana – the mind might flicker and one’s
concentration on the mantra might waver, but one’s sincerity must be
proper. That is the key point: sincerity.

If this type of reverential approach is taken in sadhana twice daily,
then regardless if one’s sadhana is “good” or “bad”, the bhakta is sure
to attain liberation. That practice is enough to ensure that at the time
of death one will think of Him, by His grace, in which case He will take
away all remaining samskaras and grant liberation. That is Guru’s most
gracious promise and boon.

WHY MUKTI IS IMPORTANT

Even then, those in the dark, may think that, “I am not bound – I am
free – I need not seek liberation.” Such is a classic case of sheer
ignorance, sometimes even good sadhakas can think like this.

Here we should always remember that everyone on this earth is bound by
samsakras in one way or another. Every jiiva is bound – bound by death,
by old age, by hunger, by so many things. No one is free.

One can only get temporary satisfaction through worldly things like
food, sleep etc. But then soon again one will feel hungry or tired. It
happens.

Baba says, “To live in this physical world, to preserve our existence,
artha or money is essential. However, we also require parama’rtha.
Parama’rtha is that factor which brings about the permanent cessation of
the triple afflictions. Here permanent cessation means cessation of
those afflictions which, once removed, will never return again in the
future. That artha which brings permanent relief from the pangs of
hunger, which is the instrument of permanent cessation, is called
“parama’rtha”. It is important that you understand the true significance
of “parama’rtha”.” (AV-4)

Only the spiritual sphere can permanently satisfy all human hunger and
yearning.

Only by following the rules and guidelines in the Supreme Command can
one attain eternal peace. Till that time, one will always be engulfed in
some kind of limitation and ignorance.

When we adhere to the Supreme Command – when we do sadhana twice daily
with sincerity – then by His grace we will be relieved of all bondages
and suffering and be granted liberation.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace every Ananda Margii does sadhana twice daily. In that
case liberation is certain.

So no one should get caught up in worry or despair. Baba is controlling
everything. He can and will save us from each and every predicament.
There is no cause for hopelessness or helplessness.

With sincerity in sadhana, He will grace us with only His thought when
we die, ensuring liberation. That is His guarantee in the Supreme Command.

Baba says, ” If one dies while seeking the Supreme, one will surely
attain the Supreme after death. One who is totally absorbed in ideation
on the Supreme becomes one with the Supreme at the time of death. This
is certainly true in the case of devotees.” (AMIWL-9)

Namaskar,
Shantatma

Note 1: UNDERGOING SAMSKARAS

Here are two more points about undergoing samskaras.

(A) You may have noticed how people comment that once one gets initiated
then so many problems and difficulties start happening. That is because
the karmic cycle speeds up so one can undergo all their reactions. Even
then by His grace He will ensure that they get totally exhausted in the
end. So that is one phenomenon.

(B) Side by side, if the mind is high and vibrated then the
manifestation of bad samskaras does not cause mental anguish to the
sadhaka. If one is devotionally remembering Him, then one will feel
light and easy.

For instance, if Baba is coming and one sadhaka is rushing to go see
Baba and while running he cuts his foot. That sadhaka may not even know
that his foot is bleeding because his mind is so engrossed in the
thought of Baba.

That is the way it works. Other may think you are suffering a lot but if
the mind is high, then one does not experience any mental trouble while
undergoing those samskaras.

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Who is blessed one?

Baba says, “The man who is intelligent should, from his very childhood,
move along the path of proto-spirituality. The sooner a man starts and
moves along this path of psycho-spirituality, the better it is. He is
the blessed one.” (AV-12, p.75)

Note: With the start of this happy new year we should once again reflect
how Baba has graced us by providing us all the tools and teachings for
moving along the path of spirituality. So again with renewed vigor we
should be more firm and more sincere in our adherence to Sixteen Points.

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