Akhand Jyoti Magazine May June 2021 by Akhand Jyoti Swadhyay

VOLUME: 19

ISSUE: 3

MAY-JUNE 2021

Amrit Chintan

Righteous Use of Life

ost of human life is primarily spent in – eating, sleeping, and being engaged in sensual passions and pleasures, or worrying, fearing or fighting, etc. Almost all the time and efforts are centered around the body. But is that all the purpose for which the human life is bestowed? If the domain of life is confined to activities related to the body, its protection, fulfillment of its instinctive desires, then what is the difference between humans and animals? Humans are the most evolved and intelligent beings. Greater responsibilities are also entrusted along with this superior status among all living beings. Those among us, who do not bear the duties of human life, are not worthy of the dignity of being called humans. Eradication of evils, vices, sufferings, and agonies, and establishment of the righteous, expansion of the enlightened values of humanity is the primary purpose of human life. All the great talents, skills, abilities, and powers which Nature has endowed us with are for the betterment of the world, for the welfare of all. So we must try our level best to help others, elevate them. No doubt, one should take care of one’s health, excelling of one’s potentials, and that of near and dear ones, but one’s duties should not end there. Whatever time and resources we have must also be shared for selfless service of the needy around us. - Pujya Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya

Each of us must decide whether it is more important to be proved right or to provoke righteousness. - Bernice King AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

CONTENTS 1.

Amrit Chintan Righteous Use of Life ............................................................................................................

From Chief Editor’s Desk

Shantikunj: An Institution Dedicated to the Transformation of Human Thought ................ How Good are You in Interpersonal Communication? ..........................................................

4. 5.

Unique Occasion of Inner and Outer Puriﬁcation ................................................................

5 7 9

Science and Spirituality Worldly and Spiritual Signiﬁcance of Voice ..........................................................................

Health and Wellness Drink Water as A Medicine ....................................................................................................

Success Comes to Those Who Strive Hard............................................................................

Speak Thoughtfully................................................................................................................

Youth Column How to Boost Self-Respect? ..................................................................................................

10.

Honesty: A Virtue Direly Needed for Righteous Living........................................................

11. 12.

Let us Lead a Holistic Lifestyle .............................................................................................

27 30

Odyssey of the Enlightened - 79 Noble Guru is a Reﬂection of God - 2 ...................................................................................

13.

Facing the Problem is also Solution of the Problem..............................................................

14.

Yug Gita - 30 Janma Karma ca me Divyam (My Birth and Action are Divine) ..........................................

15.

Plant Trees and Save Lives ...................................................................................................

16.

Amrit Vani Annamaya Koïa S³dhan³: Boons of Physical Labor ............................................................

17.

The Debt of Hanumanji .........................................................................................................

18. 19.

Cultivate Generosity ..............................................................................................................

46 48

Keep Smiling! ........................................................................................................................

20.

Shantikunj News ..................................................................... (Inner and back cover pages) One of the trials of life is that we do not usually receive the full blessing immediately for righteousness or the full cursing for wickedness. - Ezra Taft Benson

AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

From Chief Editor’s Desk

Shantikunj: An Institution Dedicated to the Transformation of Human Thought

he circumstances presenting in one’s life are considered to be the result of one’s own actions. The seed is grown in the form of a tree. In the same way, the seed of action grows and ﬂourishes in the form of circumstances in one’s life. Something similar happens with the personality of a person. The thought arising in one’s mind is a kind of seed. When it gets the support of desire, emotion, and resolve as manure, water and sunshine provide for seed growth, it becomes a belief. It is these beliefs that make the character of a person and shape his personality accordingly. As is the personality, so are the deeds. It is useless to expect good behavior from evil persons. Similarly, one cannot even imagine bad behavior from virtuous persons. The purpose of writing these lines is that if we can understand this simple philosophy, the root cause of all the problems confronting society today can be known. We act according to our traits and habits, and the circumstances are formed according to our actions.

These circumstances are responsible for our rise or fall, pleasure or pain, and fame or defame. In the present times, we find that most people are engulfed in physical ailments, mental disorders, family quarrels, and social problems. If we investigate the root cause of these, we will easily find that it is nothing but disappointing poverty in the way of thinking. In fact, the body is merely a medium of fulfilling desires and taking action. The actual controller is the mind. If the mind presents some demand, the body is seen dancing to its tune. That is why Lord Krishna has called the mind as our friend and foe. Our inner self is formed by our thoughts, desires, and emotions, and hence it must be realized that our personality would be formed as per the wishes of the mind. The mind forms its own world according to its will. As is the mind – so is the way of thinking, as is the thought style – so is the personality, as is one’s personality – so are his/her actions, and as are one’s actions – so are his/her circumstances. Therefore, if there is any need for refinement/ correction, it should be done in the mental field or the thought style of a person and nowhere else. If the direction of thinking is changed, a person can become a great man, laureate, scientist, etc. A sculptor shapes the rough stone into a beautiful piece of an idol; in the same way, if a person wishes, he/she can refine his way of thinking and mold his/her personality in the desired direction. For this purpose, there is no need for the blessings of any God/Goddess. The requirement is to resolve to uplift one’s personality, and then

Things have a way of working themselves out if we just remain positive. – Lou Holtz AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

it will not take any time for the circumstances to change to favorable ones. This principle applies not only to an individual but to the entire humanity. People together form a society. If we find the solution to the circumstances presenting before us but do nothing to the mindset that is responsible for developing such situations, it would be akin to leaving the wound of a person after washing it and giving no medicine for healing it up. Adopting such methods provide only temporary solutions. The roots of problems remain as such, and with time they reappear in more aggravated form. Therefore, infusing excellence in the thought process of individuals as well as groups and eradicating evil impressions is the only solution. Though this task appears impossible at first sight, but if several talented, empathetic, determined people come together and make an effort in this direction, this transformation is not at all difficult. For this very purpose, Shantikunj (Headquarters of All World Gayatri Pariwar) was established by Pujya Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya so that the impossible-looking task of refining human thought is made possible easily. When monarchies existed in the entire world, democracy appeared like a dream. But the spark of democratic revolution

spread so fast that now there are very few monarchies left in the world. The surge of communism and the digital revolution are examples of the same process. Then why is it not possible to implement ‘Vichar Kranti’ (Thought Revolution) proposed by Pujya Gurudev? It is certainly possible to give it a concrete shape. Pujya Gurudev has already given a three-pronged approach to developing an individual, the family, and society. He has also written vast literature (about three thousand books) for this purpose and developed more than ﬁve thousand reformation centers in India and abroad with huge human resources dedicated to this noble cause. In the golden jubilee year of the establishment of Shantikunj, let us resolve to work unitedly towards achieving the goal of ushering in the New Era of peace and harmony.

With prayer-ﬁlled wishes and greetings for Gayatri Jayanti and Ganga Dashahara, (Pranav Pandya)

Men fear thought as they fear nothing else on earth - more than ruin, more than even death. The thought is subversive and revolutionary, destructive, and terrible; thought is merciless to privilege, established institutions, and comfortable habits; thought is anarchic and lawless, indifferent to authority, careless of the well-tried wisdom of the ages. Thought looks into the pit of hell and is not afraid ..... thought is great and swift and free, the light of the world, and the chief glory of man. - Bertrand Russell I don’t think anything is unrealistic if you believe you can do it. – Mike Ditka AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

How Good Are You in

Interpersonal Communication?

he personal, social, and professional life of an individual depend largely on the efficacy of interpersonal communication. This expertise defines whether those relationships fail or succeed. If we are mindful of certain essential points, then communication can be both effective and influential. When ignored, not only is the conversation unfruitful but also can cause hurdles to success and happiness. Everyone needs to realize the role of communication in life and dedicate some time to improving it daily. Let some time be set aside for introspecting and evaluating oneself – ‘Where can I improve myself when I speak to others? What should I improve?’ Make a list of these and plan for regular practices to help you achieve your goal for effective conversations. It would be best if you can bring in a friend or wellwisher into this process of learning. Their feedback and suggestions can be helpful to your progress. You could listen to some good conversationalists, observe the nuances, imbibe those relevant to you,

and put them into practice. In this way, you can consciously make interpersonal communication a part of your development goal and strive to make it a tool for chiseling a great personality for yourself. The most important part of a conversation is understanding the message you want to convey and remaining centered around it. Also, ensure that you keep the language simple and voice it courteously while being ﬁrm on what you want to convey. You can do this without hurting anyone’s feelings. Always keep your words within moral bounds. Whatever is said with positivity and poise has a way of reaching the listener’s heart. At the same time, words spoken in haste and huff fail in communicating the desired message and often end up in an adverse reaction from the audience. So, don’t ever let your focus waver from the message and render it with Satyam-Shivam-Sundaram (Truth-Auspiciousness-Beauty). Establish an emotional connection with your listeners or viewers. This is the most pivotal point for effective communication. This is what ensures that the words emanating from your heart reach the hearts of the audience. Along with the best of intentions from your side, it is equally important to understand your audience – ‘What is their background? What are their requirements? What problems are they facing?’ Before you face the audience, you must do your homework diligently in understanding these aspects so that you can provide them with needed solutions and advice. This will ensure effective communication, lacking which even the most sophisticated arrangements fail to achieve desired results.

The key to healthy communication is having a willingness to lay aside our defensive tendencies and accept responsibility for our part of the relationship. - Asa Don Brown AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Think twice before you speak. It is essential to listen ﬁrst and then think before replying. Do not ever give a reaction or response in haste. When talking, always ensure that the listener follows your line of thought and is on the same page. If you do this, you will be spared of having a one-sided conversation. You can quickly ﬁgure out if the other person understands what you say by looking at their body language, and it is also a good idea to ask questions every now and then to check if they are grasping correctly. Suppose the topic of the talk ends up being serious or heavy to the listeners. In that case, you could sprinkle some anecdotes, stories and show audio-video content to break the monotony.

sit as a courtesy. Such conversations fail utterly. In essence, it is crucial to be a good listener and show respect and empathy towards the audience you wish to address.

If you want to become a good speaker, you should ﬁrst become a good listener. Empathetic listening is a crucial requirement for effective communication. If you listen and observe others with empathy, you can grasp both their external circumstances and mental state. This will form the basis for valuable exchange of ideas. This also establishes a bond of trust and respect between speaker and listener.

Be aware of your body language. Many times, body language conveys more than what is being verbally communicated. What you are feeling while talking and the depth of emotions from which those words are emerging is more important than what you are speaking itself. All of this is conveyed through body language. That is why honesty is the best policy. A pleasant smile on your face conveys that you are interested in the listeners, respect them, and look forward to spending time with them.

The sum-total of all these principles would help us carry out a fruitful conversation that could otherwise have been onesided and boring if the speaker focused only on speaking without listening. This also reﬂects poorly on the speaker as being egoistic or standofﬁsh, which results in listeners losing interest in what is being told, and they continue to

Eyes reﬂect the truth that is conveyed through words and body language. Always try to establish eye contact with the audience as you speak. All these aspects form the basis for effective interpersonal communication.. ◙

A single word can brighten the face of one who knows the value of words. Ripened in silence, a single word acquires a great energy for work. War is cut short by a word, and a word heals the wounds, And there’s a word that changes poison into butter and honey. Let a word mature inside yourself. Withhold the unripened thought. Know when to speak a word and when not to speak at all. - Yunus Emre Interpersonal skills are like database management systems: being a good listener is about routing incoming requests to an appropriate service handler. - John Alejandro King AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Unique Occasion of Inner and Outer Purification he holy festival of Gayatri Jayanti and Ganga Dashahara will be celebrated on 20th June this year. In (Vedic) Indian Culture, this particular day1 is of great spiritual importance. It marks the epochal occasion of the sublime emergence of the supreme divine light of Adyaïakti2 Gayatri and the beatifying day of the descent of the holy river Ganga on the earth. The Vedas sing paeans in reverence of Gayatri. Several Indian scriptures pay tribute to the holy Ganga as a divine boon for the earth.

also took place only after the dedicated long-term tapasy³ (ascetic endeavor) of Rajarshi (a rishi like king) Bhagirath, the descendant of king Sagar in the dynasty of Ikshvaku. The Gayatri (Mantra) is revered in the Vedic texts as “Vedamata” — the origin of the Vedas. It is said that after the absolute s³dhan³ of Gayatri, one can attain the deep knowledge of the Vedas. Gayatri Mantra is a symbol/the identity of the grandeur of the wisdom, sagacity, and the limitless treasure of mystic knowledge (jó³na) of Vedic India. “Ganga” represents the holy spirit and the sacred culture of Vedic India. Lord Krishna gloriﬁes the piety of jó³na as supreme (Na Hi Jó³nena Sad•aïa® Pavitramiha Vidyate| -- Bhagvat Gita 2|3|). Thus, Gayatri and Ganga both are the source and manifestations of piousness.

It is on this day in the Vedic Age that the transcendent effulgence of absolute divinity was realized in the spiritual acumen of great rishi Vishwamitra as the sacred Gayatri Mantra — O® Bh¿r Bhuva¡ Swa¡|Tat Saviturvareñya®, Bhargo Devasya Dhºmahi, Dhiyo Yona¡ Pracoday³t || He attained this state after arduous, devout s³dhan³ (spiritual endeavor) of self-puriﬁcation and cultivation of divine virtues that led to his self-transformation from an arrogant king Vishwarath to a rishi — sagacious spiritual yogi, a saintly friend of the entire world (Vishwamitra). The descent of the holy Ganga on this earth

Gayatri s³dhan³ purifies the mind (including intellect and emotional core), intrinsic character, and the innerself of a devout s³dhaka. River Ganga purifies a devotee externally. Gayatri (Mantra) is also called “Tripad³” (word meaning: having three legs), as there are three main components in the mantra after “O®”3 and the vy³hratis4; see the segments of the mantra after “|”; three segments are separated by commas. Ganga is described in the scriptures as “Tripath³” (word meaning: moving along three paths), as it is supposed to flow on the Earth, Heaven, and Hades (Hell), where it is respectively referred to as “DharaGanga” (or simply as “Ganga,” as we know); “AkashGanga,” and “Patal-Ganga.” Wherever Gayatri S³dhan³ is performed and river Ganga flows naturally, they generate divine purity in the sublime and the physically manifested environment, respectively.

The body is purified by water; ego by tears. Intellect is purified by knowledge, and the soul is purified with love. - Ali ibn Abi Talib AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Gayatri, Ganga, Himalayas, and the Indian Culture: As Yugrishi Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya used to cite, Gayatri is the source of awakening the divine possibilities subliminally rooted in the human self. Ganga lands support to the Gayatri S³dhakas, who are devout seekers of this awakening. The rishis (Vedic sages) were accomplished yogis who succeeded in this endeavor. They propounded the divine Indian Culture from the Himalayan region around Ganga. The origins of Gayatri s³dhan³ and Ganga lie in the Himalayas. Gayatri s³dhan³, Ganga, and the Himalayas

are inseparable from the Indian Culture (the culture of divinity hidden in the human beings) and the Indian civilization (the most ancient and evolved civilization on the earth). India is the sacred land of enormous investigation and absolute experiments, and achievements in the deep science of spirituality. It is also the distinguished country where higher values of humanity originated and prospered in a great culture. The spiritual ascent of India and the expansion and dissemination of jó³na (and consequent development of the culture of the evolution of humankind and the civilization of prosperity with the spirit of peaceful co-existence and global welfare) originated here, are intrinsically associated with Gayatri and Ganga. The Indian Culture is the culture of higher values and righteous development of character. It is the culture that cultivates and

“It’s a fact - everyone is ignorant in some way or another. Ignorance is our deepest secret. And it is one of the scariest things out there, because those of us who are most ignorant are also the ones who often don’t know it or don’t want to admit it. Here is a quick test: If you have never changed your mind about some fundamental tenet of your belief, if you have never questioned the basics, and if you have no wish to do so, then you are likely ignorant. Before it is too late, go out there and find someone who, in your opinion, believes, assumes, or considers certain things very strongly and very differently from you, and just have a basic honest conversation. It will do both of you good.” - Vera Nazarian, The Perpetual Calendar of Inspiration Solitude is the place of purification and transformation, the place of the great struggle and the great encounter. - Henri Nouwen AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

nurtures the ﬁne qualities that lead to spiritual ascent and motivate noble deeds. This is why the “Divine Mother” Gayatri is revered as the eternal mother of this culture, and this culture is also referred to in the ancient texts as “Divine Culture.” Indeed, it is the culture of enlightenment of humankind and welfare of all. The purity and enormous resources associated with the river Ganga manifest these tenets of the Indian Culture. Worship of Ganga practiced in Indian Culture marks an expression of gratitude in this regard. Good character and dedication for duty-bound good deeds naturally lead to viable progress in consonance with Nature and worthy prosperity. In the ancient times when every citizen of this land was a true devotee of Gayatri and Ganga, a true follower of this culture, India was the most prosperous and advanced country and an adept guide of the entire world. Auspicious festivals of Gayatri Jayanti and Ganga Dashahara should be regarded as the occasions to recall and celebrate this divine bequest. It should be the day of our sincere introspection and tribute to our great rishis, who were the mystic investigators and founders of the super-science of s³dhan³ and virtuous culture. It should also be the day of pledging to follow the ideal path shown by them. For this,

it would be worth recalling some relevant and essential points for necessary guidance to the seekers of Vedic knowledge and culture. Prevailing Convictions and Reality of Gayatri S³dhan³: The near-total destruction of many ancient texts and original scriptures by the foreign invaders and consequent cultural devolution in medieval times led to wide-spread delusions and distorted convictions like — “Gayatri S³dhan³ is cursed/blocked by the rishis Vashishtha and Vishwamitra and Lord Brahma.” This is due to misinterpretation of the linguist meaning of the Sanskrit word “kºlita” used by some scholars in the context of Gayatri S³dhan³. The literal meaning of this word is — to lock, to put restrictions, or to draw boundaries. Well, so it is like opening the secure locker of an invaluable treasure. It is only after opening several locks, crossing several layers of security, that one can reach the treasure. Indeed, the precious s³dhan³ of Gayatri can be accomplished only after succeeding in the essential s³dhan³s of self-purification and self-development. Rishi Vashishtha’s life epitomizes supreme levels of patience, tolerance, forgiveness, generosity, and divine faith. Opening the lock (i.e., fulfilling the prerequisites) imposed by him implies that a true devotee, a true s³dhaka of Gayatri, should have these virtues. Rishi Vishwamitra was able to endeavor realization of the supreme spiritual light (of Gayatri) only after arduous endeavors of self-refinement and building virtuous character so that no attraction, adversity, or hindrance could perturb him from the path of devout s³dhan³. Every seeker of Gayatri S³dhan³ has to follow this path shown by him. Lord Brahma, one of the trinity gods, is revered to have first uttered the Vedas. So, passing the eligibility test laid by Him means — only those devotees can accomplish Gayatri S³dhan³ (and hence attain Vedic wisdom), whose thoughts and speech are

It may be difficult to understand why a test comes our way, but we must never forget that the test is accomplishing refining and purification. - Billy Graham AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

divinely pure and benevolent like the sacred chants of the Vedic Hymns. The three components of the Gayatri Mantra are associated with the three bodies — sth¿la ïarºra, s¿kïma ïarºra, and the k³raña ïarºra3. Refinement and enlightenment of these abodes of the s³dhaka’s being are essential for the success of his/her Gayatri S³dhan³. As the meanings of these three segments/components of the mantra respective imply — we need to adopt benevolence in our aspirations and actions in worldly life. Only then can we awaken and retain spiritual radiance (in our mind and the inner self). This inner illumination activates the real soul-power indwelling within us and firmly excels us on the saintly path that eventually leads to divine transmutation. Prevailing Convictions and Reality of Ganga-Worship: The introduction of the Indian Culture is incomplete without the reference to the holy river Ganga. It is the lifeline of millions of Indians. In its natural form (near its origin, at “Gomukh” in the Himalayas), the water of Ganga is pure with healthy medicinal properties; it is worshiped and used for purification before important sacraments; it is also offered as an oblation to the deities.

Some Puranas warn that during the peak of Kaliyug (Dark Age of celestial phase/changes), this holy river may dry, as the filth of the ambiance of life and environment and the malice of people’s thoughts and conduct would not be compatible with its purity. If things are not improved, there are significant chances that the holy river would dry. This grave blunder of humankind would eventually lead to an end of humane culture and prosperity. Indeed the present scenario of excessive exploitation of natural resources for selfish motives, all-round pollution of air, water, and soil, uncontrolled population growth, global warming, consequent threats of water-shortage along with the scarcity of other vital natural supports, reminds us of the scriptural warning. It is pathetic to

The river Narmada was in full flow in joy and enthusiasm with melodious burbling sound. There was a pond in the way whose water had been stagnant for long. The surrounding atmosphere was full of foul smell. The pond told Mother Narmada – “Why are you wasting your energy in continuously running and flowing. Just look at me. How I keep sitting at one place in comfort.” The Narmada replied – “It is by adopting the path of progress and flow that my appearance is so clean, pure, and pleasing. That is why my every drop is put to some use or the other. You have closed both the path of flow and the door to progress. So, your very existence is in danger. It also does not appear likely that your existence can serve any purpose of the public good.” You are never at any time nearer to God than when under tribulation, which He permits for the purification and beautifying of your soul. - Miguel de Molino AKHAND JYOTI

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see that many of us, the so-called devotees, who respect the holy river as “Mother Ganga,” are polluting it by our mindless customs and rituals of worship. Ganga is the source of prosperity and progress. It is high time we wake up and purify and protect our sacred Ganga and other rivers, and the mountains and forests around them, and all our precious natural resources. We all have to ﬁght the war against pollution collectively. This should not only be our pledge on the sacred day of Ganga Dashahara, but this day should also mark the constructive beginning of our transformation. Ganga is a symbol of purity with prosperity. As a mark of our tribute to the holy river, we have to remove the pollution of not only our environment but also that of our thoughts, outlook, and character. A joint celebration of “Ganga Dashahara” and “Gayatri Jayanti” imply purity of the outer and the inner domains of life. In simple terms, the gist of the philosophy of Gayatri is that — our good thoughts and aspirations would awaken and empower our good sentiments/feelings and culminate into our righteous, altruistic deeds. The lives and works of great personalities afﬁrm this universal truth. Ganga and the cultural

signiﬁcance associated with it provide natural support and inspiration in this endeavor. On the unique occasion of Gayatri Jayanti / Ganga Dashahara, we must recall and adopt this noble teaching of “Vichar Kranti” (Thought Revolution) mission of the Yugrishi and thus, step forward towards its epochal objective of — awakening the divinity inherent in our souls and descent of heaven on the earth.. ◙ Notes: 1. 10th Day of the bright lunar fortnight of the month of JyeÌÚha -the third month of the Hindu Calendar year (Vikram Sa®vat). 2. Âdyaïakti (Âdi-ïakti): Eternal, Omnipotent Divine Force; the Origin of all divine powers, the Absolute Source of all manifested and sublime existence. 3.

“O®”: The absolute self-existent original sound/syllable (of the evolutionary vibration of the Brah®); Brah® - the Omnipresent, Eternal, Consciousness-Force.

Vy³hratis: Sacred interjections; in the Gayatri Mantra, these are Bh¿r, Bhuva¡, Swa¡, indicating the Omnipresence (of the eternal, supreme divine light of Gayatri) in the three lokas (realms of existence).

5. Sth¿la Ïarºra (the physical body), S¿kïma Ïarºra (the subtle body; it consists of the vital energy and the mind (with intellect)), and the K³raña Ïarºra (the causal body - the deep core of the inner self and the transcendent source of its existence; it is also the sublime domain of the soul-presence in a life-form and therefore also described as the “astral body”).

What drains your spirit drains your body. What fuels your spirit fuels your body. – Caroline Myss AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Science and Spirituality

Worldly and Spiritual Significance of Voice

e experience the importance of what we speak in many ways in our day-to-day life. Psychological impact or reaction of speech is the best evidence of the power of speech (voice). The history of human society has ample examples illustrating this power. Few words of inspiration and enthusiasm can trigger the soldiers on the front to turn a losing battle into a great triumph. The terrific effect of Mr. Winston Churchill’s ‘V for Victory’ motto is said to have changed the fate of England in World War II. Similar events illustrating the power of the courageous words of Napoleon Bonaparte are also cited in French history. Deeper psychological analysis shows that the power of syllables is electrified by the inner strength and confidence with which they are spoken. The motivating slogans like — “Tum Mujhe Kh¿na Do, Main Tumhe Âz³dº D¿ng³” uttered by Mr. Subhash Chandra Bose, and “Swar³ja Ham³r³ Janma Siddha Adhik³ra Hai” by Lokmanya Tilak....., had made a significant impact on the masses during India’s freedom movement. Mahatma Gandhi’s speeches had the power to hypnotize the listeners; his appeals used to drive millions of people to follow him, although his speeches used to be quite ordinary in terms of language, audible quality of voice, articulation, eloquence, or breadth of knowledge. There also are ample historical examples of the calamitous impact of negative use of the power of speech. Few scornful words of Draupadi are supposed to have triggered the ego of Duryodhana, which consequently resulted in the devastating

war of Mahabharata. The good or bad impact of the power of written words is also equally signiﬁcant. That is why literature (including print media) is recognized as an important force on par with political, defense, or economic powers. Indeed, the power of words manifests itself according to the intentions and inner strength of the speaker (or writer). In terms of spiritual science, the effect of the vocal, written, or mentally processed (in thoughts) words/sound is an expression of the manifested power of Ïabda1. In the language of anatomy, the ‘hearing and speech’ (including the inaudible and invisible expressions of thoughts and imagination) system gets top priority in the brain. It occupies about 60 percent portion of our brain’s functionally active part. The functions of the creative activities of the hands get the next priority, and so on. Therefore, in order to avoid the wastage or misuse of the precious power of our brain, we should give top priority to cautiously control the words we speak, write, read, or listen to (and

Speech is the voice of the heart. - Anna Quindlen AKHAND JYOTI

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hence ‘store’ in our memory). Spiritual disciplines do give crucial importance to the practices of satsang, sa®yam, swadhy³ya, and manana for enhancing the purity, integrity, austerity, and piety of hearing, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking. What we have discussed so far pertains only to the enormous power of Ïabda expressed in the Baikhari V³ñº (audible voice/speech) and partly the Madhyam³ V³ñº (mental voice used/ expressed in thoughts). Adopting the spiritual disciplines gradually reﬁnes and helps to awaken the higher (spiritually evolved) levels of V³ñº2. Sublime Power of Spiritually Energized ‘Voice’: As has been experienced by many devotees across different lines of faith, the auspicious words – e.g., the devotional prayers, pious names of God, and the holy quotes or preaching of great saints, create positive effects on our emotional core. The intensity of such effects depends upon the purity of heart and deep faith of the devotee/ disciple. Sacred thoughts, serene tendencies, and good deeds are directly linked with these positive effects. The practice of chanting and writing some auspicious words before starting any important work, which is common among many religious people, also

seems to have roots in this possibility. At higher levels of spiritual refinement, the spoken, written, or mental (thoughts) ‘voice’ may become so powerful that the blessings and curses ‘uttered/expressed’ in it would also come true. As part of their ascetic disciplines and devout spiritual endeavors, the rishis (Indian sages, spiritual scientists of Vedic times) used to think, speak and hear only absolute truth; they were therefore endowed with the supernormal talents of using this manifested power of ïabda to beatify the good people and to punish the cruel/ devilish. But such supernormal attainments would remain ‘mythological’ and ‘imaginary’ to us, as evolution (of consciousness-faculties) to this level is not possible without arduous spiritual endeavors with deep ïraddh³3. We all know that a healthy diet, disciplined food habits, and physical exercises are necessary for physical fitness as books/learning inputs and practical training/guidance for education. Similarly, the spiritual disciplines of self-restraint over the greed of tongue, strict vigil and control over speech and thoughts, observance of truthfulness for refinement of Baikhari and Madhyam³ V³ñº are essential for adept mantra s³dhan³[1]. Concentrated powers of the refined baikharº v³ñº and the madhyam³ v³ñº strengthened by the mantra japa gradually energize the extrasensory nuclei of consciousness-energy (referred to as chakras in the yoga-science). The chakras begin to function like sublime ‘conducting channels’ to supply the electrified currents of pr³ña (vital spiritual energy). Continuation of devout mantra s³dhan³ with the support of ïraddh³ helps sublime transmutation of v³ñº to the levels of païyanti and par³ v³ñºs2. Limitless powers of these spiritually evolved levels of ‘voice’ are beyond our realization in the physical world; we can only get a glimpse of these supernatural faculties (of consciousness-force)

In leadership, life, and all things, it’s far wiser to judge people by their deeds than their speech - their track record rather than their talk. – Rasheed Ogunlaru AKHAND JYOTI

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from spiritual descriptions or through interaction with true spiritually elevated saints and sages. Some Scriptural Citations: The four faces in the idols of Lord Brahma symbolize the four levels of v³ñº – namely, the baikharº, madhyam³, païyanti, and par³2. The allegoric stories in the pur³ñ³s mention the maintenance of the universe by God Brahma’s continuous movements upward and downward along the lotus-cord emanated from the ‘navel’ of God Vishnu. This rhetoric description signifies the eternal cosmic impact of the repeated cycling of mantra japa in the four v³ñºs. Several Vedic scriptural quotes also signify the power of spiritually refined v³ñº; some of these are cited here: P³vk³ Na¡ Sarasvatº V³jebhirv³jinºvatº | Yajóa® vaÌtu dhiy³vasu¡ || Meaning: The voice purified by tapa offers piety and trenchancy of thoughts together with creative talents and discerning intellect. ViÌñumukh³ Vai Dev³ichandobhirim³nlok³nana Pajapyamabhyajapan | Meaning: (The power of) God Vishnu subtly resides in the mouth. It is (an expression of v³k in the form of) a (Vedic) mantra. The (Vedic) mantras are (sublime carriers of) divine powers that can triumph over everything in a righteous manner. Devº V³camajanayanta Dev³st³®, Viïvar¿p³¡ P³ïavo Vadanti | S³ No MandreÌÌam¿rga® Duh³n³, Dhenurv³gasm³nupasuïÚuvaitu || Meaning: The par³ v³ñº (v³k) is the Goddess of the universe. It is the mother of all divine powers. All Gods (divine powers) are immanent in the subtle body of the mantras. The knowledge of v³k encompasses all the sciences. V³k is the true K³madhenu4.

Whatever we speak, think, know or feel is possible because of the presence of v³k in the inner self; our life exists because of this eternal boon (of expression of Consciousness-Force) of the Almighty. Dedicated endeavor for the (spiritual) reﬁnement of v³ñº is an essential part of mantra-s³dhan³. A sincerely performed tapa of v³ñº gradually leads to the activation of its successive sublimated forms. The science of mantras revolves around the dual aim of this spiritual endeavor along with the mantra s³dhan³. When the devotees practice the japa5 of the great Gayatri Mantra, initially, it is usually their baikharº v³ñº alone that enunciates the mantra. Therefore, the japa may not be as effective for most of them as described in the scriptures. However, as their devout practices of self-restraint and disciplined, thoughtful, and truthful use of speech succeed and their mental and emotional concentration during japa improves, their madhyam³ v³ñº awakens. The (mental) japa through this voice would be signiﬁcantly more effective and gradually lead to higher spiritual development. With higher-level s³dhan³ and consequent spiritual ascent, the païyanti v³ñº would also awaken, and the s³dhaka would experience the astonishing attainments and supernormal powers of this divine mantra.

Think of speech as a magical tool because it is. - Mat Auryn AKHAND JYOTI

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Revered Vedic sage Vishwamitra had realized the Gayatri Mantra in par³ vañº after param-tapa6. He had then attained the riddhis-siddhis7, including the potential of creating another universe, which are referred to in the Vedic texts as the boons of Gayatri Sadhan³. Indeed, the spiritual refinement of v³ñº accelerates the righteous development of the s³dhaka along the path of greatness. Evolution of v³ñº to the sublime levels of par³-v³k during mantra-s³dhan³ enables the active expression of the divinity indwelling the inner self. Par³ V³k helps realize the eternal existence of Ïabda Brah® and the attraction of the desired streams of its limitless transcendental powers. Attainment of success in mantra (and v³k)-s³dhan³ thus showers the boons of riddhis-siddhis on the deserving s³dhakas. Realization of Ïabda Brah® in the deep inner self is the true state of unification of the inner self with God; it is the state of ultimate beatified bliss, soul-realization, and nirv³ña. The relation between the piñÃa (microcosm) and the Brahm³ñÃa (cosmic expansion) is like that between a seed and its tree — each exists because of the other. The piñÃa is a small unit of the Brahm³ñÃa, and the latter is its manifold, unlimited

expansion. Every jºva (individual-self, soul in life-form) exists in the Brah®. The absolute state of enlightenment and ultimate spiritual evolution of the soul is a reflection of the Brah® (Omnipresent consciousness Force). Eternal unity of the soul with the Brah® can be realized by mantra-s³dhan³ in par³ v³k. ◙ Notes: 1. Ïabda: Eternal, omnipresent element of sound. 2. V³ñº: The word meaning of v³ñº is voice or speech. (In spiritual texts, this is referred to as the Baikhari V³ñº). It is a manifestation of the physical power of Ïabda and is used for vocal expression/communication; the subtler form of this power expressed in the language of thoughts is called madhyam³ v³ñº. The spiritually refined ‘voices’ (vibrations of Ïabda) of the deeper cores of the inner mind, and the soul, are termed respectively as païyanti v³ñº (used by the rishis in intuitive expressions and ‘silent’ communication sans any medium or barrier of space and time) and par³ v³ñº (or par³ v³k — the Supreme divine voice). 3. Ïraddh³: Intrinsic faith, deep reverence, and unflinching urge for divine ideals, values, and virtues; absolute reverence and devotion for God (and hence for the associated mantras). 4. Japa: Repeated rhythmic chant (of a mantra) with meditation and emotional engrossment. 5: Paramtapa: Supreme ascetic endeavor of spiritual refinement and awakening of the inner-self. 6. Siddhis: Supernatural powers and divine-like faculties. 7. K³madhenu: A celestial cow, referred to in the scriptures, whose ‘milk’ is supposed to fulfill all earnest desires. Reference: 1. Pandya P. and Shanbhudass (Editors): “Spiritual Science of Mantra S³dhan³ and Its Success,” Akhand Jyoti - The Light Divine. Vol. 18, Issue 1, pp. 14-18 Jan-Feb. (2020)

Speech falls on the heart like fire; one cannot endure the word of mouth. - Miriam Lichtheim AKHAND JYOTI

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Health and Wellness

Drink Water as A Medicine

here is a Slovakian proverb - “Pure water is the world’s first and foremost medicine.” According to Ayurveda, there are specific rules for consuming water. It will significantly help in improving our health if we follow them. For example, drinking water right before eating or immediately after eating is not considered good. However, one may take water 40 minutes before eating food. If there is a need, one may take one or two sips during meals. It should not be cold. It should either be at normal temperature or lukewarm. If we feel really thirsty after breakfast and feel a need for water, then preferably orange or sweet lime juice may be taken. Likewise, if we feel thirsty after lunch, sweetened curd or buttermilk can be taken. And, after dinner, warm milk can be taken. These drinks do not cause any harm and, in fact, help in digestion. Whenever we drink water, it should be sip by sip just as we drink tea or coffee. We should drink water slowly and never an entire glass of water in one breath. It is a good practice to fill a copper vessel with water overnight and then drink the water in the morning, again sip by sip. If water is kept in a copper vessel overnight, it need not be boiled again. All the qualities that water attains after boiling and cooling get assimilated into the water by keeping it in a copper vessel. This water enhances the facial glow. If we have any skin problems or are tired of trying out different remedies to get glowing skin, we must start drinking a glass of warm water every day. All skin-related issues will get solved, and the skin will begin to glow. Warm water helps in removing

harmful elements from the body. The digestive system’s problems can be solved by drinking warm water early in the morning with an empty stomach and after dinner. Constipation and flatulence-related problems also get solved to a large extent. Warm water enhances appetite too. Warm water with lemon juice, black pepper, and salt quickly reduces heaviness in the stomach. Drinking warm water on an empty stomach ends diseases of the urinary system and subsides chest burn. Warm water acts as nectar for all conditions arising out of vat dosh. Daily intake of warm water enhances blood flow in the body. Warm water increases body temperature, and so, along with sweat, all poisonous substances get expelled from the body. At the time of fever also, the patient should drink warm water instead of cold. Warm water is certainly more beneficial. If there is aching due to gas, then a glass of warm water removes it and brings relief.

To get rich, never risk your health. For it is the truth that health is the wealth of wealth. – Richard Baker AKHAND JYOTI

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Most of the diseases of the digestive tract are caused by impurities in water. Drinking water that is cooled after heating prevents many of these problems from arising. Warm water enhances the ﬂow of energy in the body. It helps in overcoming cough and cold-related diseases quickly too. If a person is suffering from asthma, hiccups, or sore throat, then after eating anything that is fried, drinking warm water brings quick relief. Drinking warm water ﬁrst thing in the morning with lemon provides vita-

min C to the body. Warm water with lemon strengthens the immune system and helps balance the pH level of the body. A glass of warm water a day acts as an excellent tonic for the cells of the brain. It moistens the scalp and reduces the problems arising due to its dryness. Warm water also plays a vital role in weight reduction. Drinking warm water an hour after eating food activates the metabolism of the body. A few drops of honey and lemon juice in warm water make our body more shapely. For people who wish to look young forever, warm water is the most wonderful medicine. So, if water is drunk thoughtfully, it can act as the best medicine for all diseases. ◙

Viruses and bacteria don't stand a chance with a strong immune system The immune system needs many different types of fuel. Fruits and vegetables provide them. Your diet should be healthy and colorful: Oranges, red peppers, green leafy vegetables, and red cabbage contain a potpourri of vitamins and are especially rich in natural vitamin C. Sufficient sleep not only allows your body to recuperate, during the slow-wave sleep phase, neurotransmitters are also released, and the immune system springs into action. Studies show that good spirits and a zest for life promote a strong immune system. Laughing and playing don't just provide for a better quality of life; they also boost the body's defenses. Negative stress activates the release of adrenalin and cortisol. These hormones can paralyze the immune system. Sensible stress and time management allow the body to rest and replenish new energy. Selective relaxation exercises like meditation, autogenic training, and yoga can significantly boost the immune system. Taking walks in the fresh air gives you a change of temperature and exercise - both stimulate the body's defense systems. Mucous membranes also benefit from improved circulation, and the increased humidity makes it easier to fight off attacks. [Source: www.dw.com] It’s true that laughter really is cheap medicine. It’s a prescription anyone can afford. And best of all, you can fill it right now. - Steve Goodier AKHAND JYOTI

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Success Comes to Those

Who Strive Hard

veryone wants to be successful in life, but only those persons achieve success who strive for it with full dedication, skill, and labor. Even hard work by itself is not sufficient for success. Dedication and skill are equally important. Commitment should be such that the person’s mind and eyes never deviate from the goal. Talent is essential to give refinement and finesse to work. After that, it is hard labor and effort which pave the path on which a person treads to success. Thus, all three inputs - dedication, skill, and labor – are required to equip a person on the path to success. A person who tries to achieve success on the strength of only one of these three attributes gets only partial success. For example, if he has the dedication, he will, of course, keep working ceaselessly but only half-heartedly and without much effort. If he is deficient in the required skill, the work done would be partial and unsatisfactory. If the person has the skill for a particular work and knows how to do that work efficiently, but he has neither devotion nor exerts much for it, he will fail. On the other hand, a person strives hard but lacks dedication and knowledge, he would not be able to stick to the work for long. For lack of commitment, his striving will be without whole heart in it. He, too, will achieve only truncated success at best. Many times, no hard labor is required for success. Such hard labor is indeed necessary for those who are new to the field of endeavor. But for those familiar with the work field and have already achieved some level of skill in that field, the

requirement is only concentration with some effort. No backbreaking exertion is needed for them. Another element is direction. If the direction of the effort is not correct, even the most sincere and enduring effort will be nulliﬁed. For example, if we want to dig a well for water, we have to dig deep in one place. Digging, of course, is a work of hard labor. But if one is ignorant of the entire process and knows only that he has to dig earth for extracting water, what will happen? He might keep cutting the ground horizontally rather than vertically. He will then dig a drain, not a well. So, the effort for success must be in the right direction; otherwise, the right result will elude us. It is often seen that when people start working for success, they keep too much worrying about the result. This concern is all the more visible in a sport or classroom. In sports, there are several teams, each playing for the win. Lakhs of people are watching the game. Win or loss becomes a matter of great prestige and big money. But the fact is that only one person or team

Don’t aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in, and it will come naturally. - David Frost AKHAND JYOTI

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will win and occupy first place. There is simply no room for two there — ditto for any school or university class. Only one can be a topper in every class or discipline. If a player is too much concerned with the result, he is under tension. In this mental condition, he can neither enjoy the game nor play his spontaneous style. In other words, he is unable to give his full in the right direction. There is a strong chance that he would lose because victory in a game comes to those who are not only skilled but who also play with their natural flow while enjoying the effort and not bothering about the result. Hence, the mind must be kept calm and peaceful without much worry in any endeavor. Only a mind in peace works at its maximum efficiency level. It is often seen that people are casual and of fleeting mind during work. In this condition, the body cannot devote total energy to the task at hand, which affects the final result. If the person is always thinking of win or success, the mind remains under constant pressure. There is always a conflict in the mind

whether the labor being done is fruitful or not, whether success will come or not, whether he will win or not? By keeping the mind under such stress, the person cannot show his natural talent in any play or his efficiency in any other work. He does not remain his natural self. Consequently, he has to face defeat or failure. Students invariably remain under stress during examination time. This is because the result determines whether their laborious study in the previous year or semester will be reflected in the result or not. This constant anxiety about the result keeps them under continuing pressure. In a sport, apart from the prestige of win heavy prize money is also involved. This generates constant stress in the mind of the players and the team leader. The team members do not play for the sake of enjoyment but for winning the prize and for fame. If they win, they become overjoyed; if they lose, they become sad and mournful. They keep thinking that all the hard labor done by them has gone in vain. But the fact is that any work done by a person never goes futile. It always imparts some lessons or the other. It brings to the fore the weaknesses and deficiencies which, if removed, could lead to success. Hence for success, it is essential that the person keeps his mind calm and relaxed, does not bother much about the win, tries to learn from past mistakes, and thus devotes himself with total energy and concentration on the execution of the work rather than on its outcome. ◙

No man succeeds without a good woman behind him, wife or mother. If it is both, he is twice blessed indeed. - Godfrey Winn Success is the sum of small efforts - repeated day in and day out. - Robert Collier AKHAND JYOTI

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Speak Thoughtfully

³ñº (Speech) is a divine gift given by God to humans. Indian scriptures consider it to be the seat of Goddess Saraswati. They have described it as a potent power. Voice is even denoted as ïabda brahma - the omnipresent vibration in the universe. The power of mantras is nothing but an expression of the subtle form of speech. Scriptures are ﬁlled with anecdotes of spoken boons and curses, which are demonstrations of the power of speech. At the worldly level, speech has its own importance as it forms the basis of success in social life and leads to inner happiness and contentment. Speech expressed as spoken word is known as vaikhari, whereas para, pashyanti, and madhyama are the inner being’s subtle voices. Scriptures go even further and equate sound with the subtle vibrations that permeate the whole universe and extol its great potential. Whenever we speak, our words affect not only the subconscious mind of a listener but also the entire human society because sound never disappears completely. The sound of every spoken word keeps reverberating in the atmosphere, and whenever it ﬁnds a

like-headed person, it resonates with his subconscious mind and casts its desired effect. It is a proven fact that whenever we express our good feelings towards a person in words, he develops affection towards us and becomes our well-wisher unknowingly. On the other hand, if we harbor or express ill feelings towards a person, he unknowingly becomes hostile to us and turns into an adversary. Auspicious speech with goodwill for all propagates propitiousness in everyone, and the entire social environment becomes cheerful and joyous. Every word we speak also leaves an everlasting, subtle impression on our inner being, contributing to forming our nature and character. Because words have such tremendous power, our sages and seers of yore have suggested that we should be careful about every word we speak; and have also instructed that our speech should always be sweet, pious, and kind. Goswami Tulsidas has written in Ramacharitamanas – ‘Tulasi meethe vachan te, sukh upajat chahun or, vashikaran ek mantra hai, taj de vachan kathor.’ (meaning: Happiness begins to grow everywhere with sweet words. If you want to enchant others, use this simple mantra - never speak harsh words). In the same way, ‘Kaga kako dhan harai, koel kako deya, meethi vani bolkar jag bas mein kar leya.’ (meaning - what does a crow steal and what does a cuckoo give to anyone? Yet by its melodious voice, cuckoo steals everyone’s heart). With sweet and kind words, the entire world can be endeared, everyone can be made ours, and we can make a place in other people’s hearts. Scriptures have prescribed truthfulness and goodwill as essential qualities of speech. Maharshi Vyasa says - truth

Body language is a very powerful tool. We had body language before we had speech, and apparently, 80% of what you understand in a conversation is read through the body, not the words. - Deborah Bull AKHAND JYOTI

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must be used to benefit all beings and not harm them. If they hurt others, such words, despite being true, would be called false and sinful. Truth, spoken without discretion and concern for others, creates problems for others, and the speaker sins by doing so. We must carefully analyze a situation and then, using our prudence, speak words that are good for everyone. Speech can work both as an elixir as well as poison. A proper speech that encourages and creates joy, that is honest, sweet, and beneficial, is like an elixir of life. On the other hand, harsh, vile, egoistic words that ridicule and are spoken out of jealousy and hatred would cause harm to self and others and are no less than poison. Our speech can help in uplifting our own selves as well as the whole society. By continuously addressing our mind with positive resolve, it can be persuaded to follow the righteous path. In a focused and quiet state, we should speak to our mind words that give it new energy, inspiration, and encouragement. By expressing such instructive words to ourselves, we can significantly enhance our mental power and inner strength, and by doing so, make our life purified, happy, and prosperous. The practice of ‘maun’ (maintaining silence) can be adopted to make our words more effective and potent. Mahatma Gandhi used to say – ‘Silence is the best way to converse. If you need to speak, be as concise as possible. If one word is sufficient, don’t speak two.’ Benjamin Franklin has said – ‘None preaches better than an ant, and she says nothing.’ In Carlyle’s words, ‘Silence has more strength than words during any conversation. Misuse of speech results in

enormous wastage of our energies.’ Just as abstinence is crucial for control of our senses, adopting silence is especially important for learning control over our speech. Even otherwise, talking unnecessarily and excessively is harmful. For one, it leads to wastage of our energy. Second, it exposes weakness and superficialness of personality. It becomes difficult to know when the tongue may slip in a constant flow of words, leading to speaking what was better left unsaid and causing us to repent gravely in the future. Undoubtedly, silence is golden. Control over our speech and adopting silence greatly enhances our energy. Practice silence for a day in a month or a week and focus entirely on selfcontemplation and positive and righteous thoughts that day. Speak only what is essential. Wise people speak in very few words. Just as a sieve separates husk from grains, such people process words through the sieve of their minds and say only what is essential. Good usage of speech is no less than all other methods for spiritual upliftment, and everyone must learn it. ◙

It is never my custom to use words lightly. If twenty-seven years in prison have done anything to us, it was to use the silence of solitude to make us understand how precious words are and how real speech is in its impact on the way people live and die. - Nelson Mandela Speak when you are angry - and you’ll make the best speech you’ll ever regret. - Laurence J. Peter AKHAND JYOTI

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Youth Column

How to Boost Self-Respect?

elf-respect is the sense of selfevaluation of an individual and how he rates himself or assesses his worth. This evaluation depends upon his belief in himself and his emotional state. It is a subtle element, which is the feeling of respect for the self. The development of self-respect depends a lot on the upbringing in childhood. Lack of proper emotional nurturing from parents or guardians, wrong company, deep trauma or adverse experiences in life, poor performance in school or college, bad habits, or falling prey to addiction are the causes that inhibit healthy development of self-esteem and the person begins to suffer from a deep inferiority complex and thus cannot live life to its fullest. Consequently, the symptoms of stress, anxiety, solitude, or depression increase, and a person faces difﬁculty making friends or forming or maintaining healthy relationships. This severely affects his intellectual and employment-related activities, and such a person is often seen falling prey to alcohol and intoxicants. In such a situation, the person cannot freely open up about his aspirations, requirements,

and sentiments. He does not consider himself worthy of even the ordinary pleasures, comforts, and rights of life and also feels difficulty making decisions. A person suffering from negative thinking feels that wrong things happen only to him, and he is not made for good things. He keeps wandering in the past and only counts his failures and negative experiences. In such a situation, he becomes a victim of extreme anxiety. He is beset by his inability and a sense of futility that no one likes, loves, or accepts him. Undoubtedly, proper development of self-esteem is essential for leading a healthy, balanced, and successful life. If, for some reason, a person is threatened by a lack of self-esteem, he can treat it on his own and augment his self-confidence through measures mentioned below: In order to develop self-confidence, pinpoint the perversions which reduce your self-worth. Find out their source and think profoundly about the misconceptions in mind, which impart this negative sense to the self, give rise to the feeling of guilt and disgrace oneself. Make a list of such habits and actions that are discoloring self-respect. These days, the smartphone is emerging as a villain in this context. It continues to incite such activities, which become a cause of concern and remorse later on and undermine self-respect. Beware of its illusion. Calm your inner critic. Stop the negative voice of the mind, which indulges in unnecessary criticism by expounding and soothing it.

Be tolerant with others and strict with yourself. – Acharya Shriram Sharma AKHAND JYOTI

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Inner negative voice is primarily based on our own actions done in the past and events that have happened earlier. It takes time to heal such an inner canker that occurs under an impulse or frenzy, ignorance or circumstantial pressure; let it recover. For this, adopt a healthy and balanced lifestyle and live in an environment with righteous thoughts and sentiments. This task can be perfectly accomplished through reading noble literature, being in noble company, and performing meditation and prayers. Reach down to its root cause with deep introspection, understand it properly, and treat it sincerely. Identify your negative beliefs and challenge them. Also, recognize the positive things about yourself and encourage them. Live in the present, be aware of your thoughts and feelings, practice meditation, and stay connected with yourself. Deeply bury the inner critic within, who holds double standards. Neither be unduly harsh towards yourself nor be extremely generous towards others. Give some space to yourself, train your inner critic. Try to understand the functioning of the mind. Understand the subconscious and unconscious nature of the mind. Being very ruthless with mind may even lead to adverse outcomes. So, deal with it wisely, prudently, and patiently. Treat it just like a mother deals with her spoiled brat. Work on it with great forbearance while employing the dual strategy of affection along with improvement. Keep relaxing in between and do what makes you happy during intervals. Compliment yourself on small achievements and live your life with joy. Make the best possible endeavors, but do not curse yourself for your inadequacies. Human errors are possible in the path, which will happen, but constantly cursing yourself for them would end up using up all your energies in some non-productive consequences. In such a situation, learn from the incident, accident, or

As a man was passing the elephants, he suddenly stopped, confused by the fact that these huge creatures were being held by only a small rope tied to their rear leg. No chains, no cages. It was obvious that the elephants could, at any time, break away from their bonds but for some reason, they did not. He saw a trainer nearby and asked why these animals just stood there and made no attempt to get away. “Well,” trainer said, “When they are very young and much smaller, we use the same size rope to tie them and, at that age, it’s enough to hold them. As they grow up, they are conditioned to believe they cannot break away. They believe the rope can still hold them, so they never try to break free.” The man was amazed. These animals could at any time break free from their bonds but because they believed they couldn’t, they were stuck right where they were. Like the elephants, many of us go through life hanging onto a belief that we cannot do something. Let’s shun that belief and start moving ahead.

Respect yourself, and others will respect you. – Confucius AKHAND JYOTI

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flaw. Write it down in bold letters. Keep repeating it many times and pace up your constructive practice. If you make a mistake again, it should be on a different level. In doing so, as small successes will add to your self-confidence, one day, your face will shine with the smile of victory. In this way, just like a sportsperson, enrich your self-esteem by refining your skills in between defeat and victory. Realize that no one is complete; everyone makes mistakes. You are not an exception. Focus on what you can change. Spend your time with people who have a good opinion of you and who make you feel better, who inspire you to do your best, and promote your self-esteem. If such a company is not available, then one can take recourse to the books of eminent personalities and enjoy the company of their discourses. For this, study the lives of those who have strived to attain the pinnacle of success in their respective fields. In this process, stay away from those who try to demean you due to their inherent envy, malice, and frustration, disseminate negativity and become the cause of downgrading your selfesteem. Learn the art of dealing with such people without losing your inner balance. In fact, the attitude of neglecting

evil is beneficial up to a certain level. Also, learn to stand up for your rights and learn to say ‘no’ when needed. Establish mutually beneficial relationships on a practical basis and refrain from negativity. Also, pen down a motivational anecdote of your struggle. Move forward daily with small steps. Keep track of your progress in a chart. Identify any shortcomings in it. Move forward daily while facing new challenges. If you want, you can create such situations on your own and put yourself in them as an exercise. Write down the saga of your struggle and share it with those in need of it. This, too, will prove to be an initiative of boosting self-confidence. Think of the struggling people like you and try to be a solution to them. ◙

Self-control is important to achieve higher goals Napoleon Bonaparte was quartered in the house of a barber, while he was studying. Barber’s pretty wife got attracted to Bonaparte. She would try to talk to him and try to gain his attention but he would only focus on his studies. She was annoyed that her charm had no power to draw Napoleon. Few years later, when in command of the army in Italy, Napoleon passed through the village on his way. He stopped at the barber’s door and asked his former hostess if she remembered a young officer named Bonaparte, who once quartered in her family. “Indeed I do,” she replied pettishly, “a very disagreeable young man he was. He was always shut up in his room and if he did walk out, he never condescended to speak to anyone.” “Ah! My good woman!” Napoleon rejoined, “Had I passed my time as you wished me to have, I should not now be in command of the army of Italy.”

Respect yourself enough to walk away from anything that no longer serves you, grows you, or makes you happy. - Robert Tew AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Honesty: A Virtue Direly Needed for Righteous Living nce a poor person arrived at the residence of a rich man to meet him. That rich man had an array of domestic servants to serve him in his ornate home. When this poor person reached to meet him, his servants and housekeepers stopped him from entering despite his repeated requests to allow him to meet the rich man. These housekeepers believed he had come to ask some favor of money or employment. But the poor person repeatedly insisted that he had not come to ask any favor and just wanted to meet the rich man. Ultimately this turmoil outside drew the attention of the owner of that palatial house that some stranger is willing to see him, so he himself came out at the gate.

sincerity and truthfulness made the rich man admire him greatly and felt highly obliged. The poor person then returned from there. On his way back, his soul was full of supreme blessedness, and he enjoyed every bit of this significant event. This pleasurable contentment made him feel as if he had found something incomparable. This story is sufficient to convince us that affluence lies in moral excellence and not the abundance of material possessions.

Outside he saw a person standing, and what surprised the rich man most that this person was holding the same bag he had forgotten a few days back somewhere near the railway station. He courteously greeted that person inside his palatial house. The poor person told the rich man – ‘Sir, I am a simple rickshaw puller. One day I found this bag near the railway station on the way to my routine job. I opened the bag and found it full of precious ornaments and some money also. I also found your address written on a piece of paper in the bag, and I am here to return this bag and your belongings to you. Please carefully check that all your possessions are in order.’ The rich man inspected his bag and found everything intact.

Quite often, we come across such stories in our life. Such decent persons are many times honored in society for their honesty and excellent behavior. They are widely appreciated in the community. Those uprightly executing their duties in every ﬁeld irrespective of their professions earn outstanding reputation and great distinction because of their honesty. This is such a distinctive attribute. Honesty is the ﬁnest example of human excellence. Indeed, this divine attribute of honesty is over and above all humane characteristics. Honesty is such an attribute that even unethical and corrupt people also prefer honest people as their companions.

The rich man was amazed to see the honesty of that naïve person. He hugged him and took out some money to oblige him, but the poor person refused to accept. He said – ‘Sir, I am already overwhelmed to deliver this bag to you, and this joy cannot be compensated with any remuneration.’ Such

The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively. – Bob Marley AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Pujya Gurudev Pt. Shriram Sharma has said – ‘An honest person is like a sparkling diamond among thousand beads.’ Honesty is not a condition of being honest only in maintaining accounts etc. Instead, an honest person leaves his influence in every field of life. If he is a physician, his integrity is visible in curing his patients. He remains faithful to his professional obligations and displays steadfast adherence to upholding specific ethical standards. If he is a student, he wholly adheres to the discipline of student life. If he is a teacher, his integrity appears in his teaching. If he is an engineer, his truthfulness can be seen in the superior quality and fineness of technical projects that he undertakes. As a farmer, his dedication can be noticed in his harvest. If he is an industrialist, his honesty appears in the quality of his products and is also visible in social welfare tasks undertaken by him. If he is a player, his honesty speaks in his dedication to his sports and sportsman spirit. An honest person is equally sincere in maintaining his family relations also. He or she nourishes all his/her relations as a husband/wife, brother, uncle, mother, etc. As an austere person, he is always steadfast to ascetic disciplines. He remains very attentive in dispositions of austere self-discipline and daily chores prescribed by his Master. Contrary to all this, an unethical person marked by a lack of honesty is unreliable and untrustworthy in discharging his duties whether he is a teacher, engineer, doctor, industrialist, or artist, etc. Such a person lacks allegiance to fulfill his duties, obligations, and strict adherence to promises. Everywhere he wants to meet his selfish ends by whatsoever wicked means. Honest people skillfully carry out their tasks to an end whereas dishonest person concludes his job half-heartedly. He develops the habit of carrying on the tasks in a makeshift manner, which is often contagious not only to him, but the entire society also bears with him. He has to pretend himself as an honest person as honesty is not in his behavioral pattern.

The caption ‘You are under CCTV surveillance’is usually displayed at various places to keep watch on such unethical, unscrupulous and contemptuous persons. Such captions mentally trouble these persons as they are afraid of being caught red-handed. They are constrained to surreptitiously execute their jobs because of the panic of surveillance or punishment if apprehended. Fearfully they are forced to live in discipline contrary to their lifestyle. An honest person never has to pretend for honesty as honesty is in his manner of behaving, which he can never give up. Honest people never believe in makeshift working. So, the pleasurable contentment derived by him on completion of a task cannot even be imagined by a dishonest person. Whereas honest people are honored and rewarded for successful and efficient working, dishonest ones are severely rebuked and humiliated everywhere. Such people lose their trust in the family as well and are not regarded as trustworthy. Whereas truthfulness and sincerity gleefully fill the heart of an honest person with a high spirit, a fake person always remains in a gloomed and depressed state of mind from loss of hope, confidence causing him inferiority complex and guilty consciousness. Despite attaining sporadic successes by resorting to cheating or

People of integrity and honesty not only practice what they preach; they are what they preach. - David A. Bednar AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

unfair means, his heart is always full of outcries. His spirit remains impatient. Every time he is frightened with the fear of apprehension and failures. Due to the languor of spirit, he falls in his own eyes and others as well. He becomes a victim of mental disorders like anxiety, depression, frustration, etc. Despite being wealthy, he never gets peace and happiness. On the other hand, an honest person remains happy and cheerful even with small means because his steadfast adherence to strict ethical standards gives him eternal happiness, contentment, and peace. Let the people offer cheers or express warm compliments to a wicked person; even then, there always remains an outcry in his heart because whether someone knows it or not, he knows what trend or what behavior he is originally from. The sweetness of his truthfulness marks its presence in the heart of an honest person; his soul cheers him for his virtuous traits and veraciousness. Man often encounters situations where his faith is at stake. Excessive desire to acquire more often causes a setback to persons of deceptive faith because the power of attraction starts dominating their honesty. Attractive monetary gains weaken their faith. Often people are tantalized towards short-term joy due to overly desires for material gains. Those

who tend not to yield to external pressures, remain firm and resolute against such adverse situations are real heroes. A truthful person succeeds in enjoying his entire life like a festival. He enjoys every moment of his life as an occasion of celebration. He experiences complete contentment in his physical as well as in spiritual life. His life blooms like a Rosy tint whose pleasant characteristic odor enlivens every sphere of his life. His sincere attitude makes other to follow him in their life. This is the merit of honesty that it causes other virtues to draw along with itself. An honest person neither shows fear nor indecision. Due to his adherence to honesty, divine virtues of compassion, love, service, empathy, forgiveness, sacrifice, justice, etc., develop in his inner self on their own. All his flaws, whether of previous life or the present one, come to an end. All this expedites his spiritual growth, and he begins to enjoy the comforts of worldly life as well. On the other hand, dishonesty is such an immoral practice that it starts soliciting many other vices with it like fraud, cheating, impatience, cruelty, fear, inferiority complex, despair, etc., and starts appearing in his behavioral approach. Suppose we, therefore, intend to fill our life with delight, enthusiasm and wish to convert it into a joyous feast. In that case, we must sincerely start disseminating truthfulness and integrity in our life. If this is not part of our life so far, even then, we should practice living with it. Honesty has no substitute, and this must be indispensable in our life like other daily chores. This virtuous trait of honesty shall fill our and others’ life with all the pleasures once we include it in our lifestyle. This virtue has all the basic assumptions to make everyone’s life easy, joyous, and candid. Therefore, start practicing it immediately. Consistent practice of honesty will help us to make it our fundamental characteristic one day. ◙

When you are able to maintain your own highest standards of integrity – regardless of what others may do – you are destined for greatness. – Napoleon Hill AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Let us Lead a Holistic Lifestyle

ifestyle refers to the way we lead life. It could either comprise of same kinds of activities every day or can include a variety of changes. Our lifestyle largely depends on the prevailing circumstances, but intelligent and strong-willed individuals can adapt to anything that life throws at them and emerge successfully. They are not scared of difﬁcult situations and ﬁght against them and turn them around in their favor. And when faced with favorable conditions, they know how to make most of it and achieve progress faster.

On the other hand, those who are not strong-willed get swayed by the prevailing unfavorable situations and cannot hold their fort. They change their lifestyle to whatever situation demands since they are not wise enough to realize that challenges that come in life will not stay forever. They can only place hurdles for a short duration, and it is up to us not to let them steer us away from our goals. Our society and the people living in it are wired such that they do not care for

those who are useless and have failed in the school of life. Those who are successful and can help others are held in high esteem and considered valuable members of society. According to the renowned thinker Chanakya, ‘Life is a great teacher and teaches man quite a lot of things in the form of experiences right from childhood to old age. We should share those learnings and experiences so that the future generations can benefit from them.’ A noble lifestyle does not just mean earning well but knowing how to live life indeed. Many people are surrounded by beautiful things but still are not happy in their hearts. At the same time, there are other people in society who are flush with money but are burdened with innumerable worries and problems. Some are extraordinarily rich in terms of wealth but are poverty-stricken at heart, and there are some others who may not be rich but are so contented that they lead a life of plenty. The basis for a holistic lifestyle is that you keep using your resources for the welfare of society. This will ensure that you not only experience fame and happiness in this world but also joy in the depths of your heart. We can help others in many ways, not just with money. The help should be done with no sense of selfishness and magnitude little more than what you intended. This extra dollop of service you render will keep you happy and content throughout the day. If a person can make this an integral part of his lifestyle, there will be no dearth of

Holistic self-realization is the realization of your heart’s desire. Why holistic? Because it involves your entire being. - Stefan Emunds AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

internal happiness and richness. The face will beam with self-confidence and zeal for life. Another essential guideline that helps us maintain a healthy lifestyle is celebrating each positive action that we do. When you keep rewarding yourself for each small step, it leaves behind a feeling of achievement and contentment. It is these small moments that will appear substantial when we look back in life. Nobody can ensure happiness, prosperity, and fame forever. It is up to us to keep ourselves feeling good, contented, and happy. It is not a difficult task to enjoy a noble lifestyle. We must first come out of the influence of fanciful books and adventurous experiences relayed by others. We must expand the horizons of our thinking and interactions. Leading a life of prosperity is a mental experience in which we do not feel the shortage of anything. We feel so capable and happy that we can even help others. Our self-confidence receives a nice boost whenever we succeed in a task, and there is an opposite effect when faced with failure. This is why we have to set small milestones for ourselves to reach a loftier goal. We can then experience joy and accomplishment and enhance our self-confidence while we move forward on the path of achieving our goals. It is always easier to take baby steps because taking a giant leap right at the beginning can be daunting and tiring. This could become a hindrance on the path. If our goal is to scale a big mountain in total darkness, then we should start this journey with a single step in the presence of some light. If we begin to contemplate and worry about scaling the mountain from the first minute, then we might not even take

that ﬁrst step towards it. This would be counterproductive. Therefore, we must include those activities in our lifestyle, which we can easily achieve. At the same time, we should also have some stretch goals that we can continuously strive to reach. Our lifestyle should be such that we should feel energetic and not fatigued in addition to feeling contented. For this, we should resort to a healthy lifestyle and food habits. Right food taken in the right quantity and at the right time can keep us energetic both physically and mentally. Similarly, the relaxation/rest taken after adequate physical and mental exertion can rejuvenate both body and mind. Healthy thoughts inspire us towards a positive lifestyle, and regular meditation helps our minds remain focused and sharp. This will enable us to take up any task and perform it with utmost concentration and effectiveness. Our lifestyle should be a holistic blend of worldly and spiritual life if we want to experience the richness of life both externally and internally. This calls for attention to both physical and mental health in our day-to-day life. ◙

People and land need healing that is all-inclusive - holistic. - Allan Savory AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Odyssey of the Enlightened – 79

Noble Guru is a Reflection of God – 2

he construction of other buildings planned for the Tapobhumi was pushed ahead by few months in view of the ﬁrst general elections in 1952. Laborers were in high demand by the political parties for setting up the daises, stages, tents, carrying posters and other canvassing material, etc. In and around Mathura, too, this was a good chance for laborers to make extra earnings; so, instead of construction work with any contractor, they were running to work for election-related jobs. The entire nation appeared to have geared up for the parliamentary elections with new enthusiasm! It was like a grand nationwide celebration. Keeping off from Politics Shriram was a dedicated volunteer of peaceful movement for India’s freedom inspired by Mahatma Gandhi under the banner of the Indian National Congress. However, postindependence, he had had no contact with the leaders of the Congress party. He never attended any of the meetings or functions of this party or any political forum. In recognition of his remarkable contributions, the government of India and the state

government wanted to honor him, but he modestly turned down the offers. He was invited by the local administrative bodies for the national festivals of Independence Day (15th August) and Republic Day (26th January), but most often, he kept away from the politicians on such occasions. He used to hoist the national flag with pride on his house (which had the office of “Akhand Jyoti” as well) and also used to worship Bharat Mata on these national festivals. Post-independence, a new political party named “Janasangh” was also formed. Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji, who had earlier been a minister at the national level, was the founder president of this party. People in this party mostly used to blame the Congress party for the partition of our country. In their views, if the party leadership had remained firm, this could have been avoided. Leaders like Dr. Mukherji were confident that the division was temporary and the two parts will reunite one day and re-establish the “Akhand Bharat” – one undivided and strong India. The ideology of the Janashangh party was framed along the notions of nationalism, “Akhand Bharat,” and Indian Culture. It had received the support of many religious bodies and scholars associated with Indian religion and culture. Many business people and traders disappointed by the Congress party had also moved to this party. The party had recently opened a branch in Mathura. Mr. Balavant Choube was its prominent leader there. He knew of Shriram’s patriotic nature and his background. He was also aware that Shriram was not interested in the

My religion consists of a humble admiration of the illimitable superior spirit who reveals himself in the slight details we are able to perceive with our frail and feeble minds. - Albert Einstein AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

activities of Congress those days and was dedicated towards religious activities and upliftment of the masses. So he felt that Shriram might be inclined towards the ideology of the Janasangh party. With this impression in mind, he went to meet Shriram in the ofﬁce of Akhand Jyoti Magazine one day. A national-level leader of this party who had arrived from Delhi was also with him. Referring to the eternity of the Hindu religious philosophy (Sanatan Dharma), the glory of Indian Culture, national unity, love and respect for the motherland, patriotism, etc., and highlighting their party’s motivation towards these issues, they sought Shriram’s active support to strengthen this party. Shriram made it clear before them that he was not going to be associated with any political forum. Had he wanted to work for politics or so-called social service, he could have joined any government or non-government organizations, including those motivated by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles. He was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals and was himself a saint, but he did not join any organization because his vision and mission were quite different. It was not only his choice and preference, but his angelic mentor as well had directed him to devote his life to spirituality and religion. He had also declined the offers of many congress leaders and made his views clear. Shri Jagan Prasad Ravat, a member of the Indian National Congress, was an old friend of Shriram. He was familiar with Shriram’s true patriotism and remarkable contributions to the freedom movement of India. While touring Mathura around the ﬁrst general election time, he paid a visit to Shriram. The two friends discussed several social and national issues. In between, Ravatji asked him —“Panditji! You should also stand and win in this election.” Shriram didn’t even consider it necessary to respond to such a suggestion.

But Mr. Ravat seemed serious! He emphasized — ‘You have been a dedicated volunteer of the movement of Mahatma Gandhi. So you should be a candidate of the Indian National Congress Party and help in the gigantic task of nation-building.’ Shriram then explained to him —“I have no interest in politics. Mahatama Gandhi’s advice is ideal for me. He had once told me that I should work for nation-building from the platform of religion. Mahatmaji had offered similar suggestions to the Indian National Congress Party and advised his followers to work in the social fields. You see, none of them listened to him! It would have been better if they had! Up till now, it has been a party of diligent and devoted workers. They may struggle to shake out something wrong. However, their mentality and approach at present are not quite suitable for social reconstruction and mass upliftment”. “Perhaps you are right. But having spent most of our life in the field of politics, we find it difficult to change the field now” — was Ravatji’s remark. “Fine, so as you can’t leave politics, I cannot leave the field of religion (spirituality)” – Shriram put a full stop to this topic.

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. - Winston S. Churchill AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Ravatji’s primary purpose of visiting Mathura was to arrange his party-colleague Mr. Liladhar Pandey’s meeting with some siddhas in the pilgrimage site of Mathura/Vrindavan. Mr. Pandey was keen to seek the blessings of such saints for a safe win in the forthcoming elections. The Real Miracle (of Sadhana) Ravatji asked Shriram if he knew any such siddhas in that region. Shriram said that he is not quite familiar with the yogis and saints of this area. He mentioned only two — Devaraha Baba and Baba Neem Karoli. But he was not sure whether they would be available in Mathura or Vrindavan, as they only used to stay there for some time of the year. Ravatji had also heard the names of these saints earlier. “Are they really siddhas? What is your personal opinion about them?” – He seemed curious to hear from Shriram. Shriram told him that many people came to seek their blessings. He made it clear that he was not interested in ﬁnding out which saint-yogi had what siddhis, etc.; and also informed that as such, there had not been any occasion for him to witness any siddhis of these two Babas, but a large number of people regard them as siddhas like Mahaavtar Baba and Swami Vishuddhanand of Varanasi. He had met Baba Neem Karoli in 1951 in Prayag. Baba was walking near the banks of the holy Sangam (conﬂuence) of rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati at that time. Unlike the mahants or mathadhishas (priests or heads of religious trusts), he did not have any special attire or team of disciples accompanying him. The Baba was a simple hermit, walking alone, barefooted; he appeared immersed in the serenity of the holy ambiance. The Baba looked at Shriram, who was also walking alone. After a few minutes, Shriram noticed that the Baba was

staring at him; his eyes were wideopened, as though he was angry! Shriram touched his feet with respect and asked if he had committed some mistake or if the saint wanted to order him to offer some service. The Baba appeared seriously engrossed in some thoughts. Moments later, he laughed loudly and then said – “Yeah! You have committed one mistake — the mistake of descending on this earth. You are a muktatma (liberated soul)! Why have you taken birth again?” Moments later, he answered himself — “It’s for God’s purpose only that you have come in human form!” Baba did not ask him anything about his present life. When Shriram reiterated — “Please let me know what I can do for you,” he said — “You don’t have to do anything for me, you should do the work assigned by your divine mentor. I did not have the fortune to ﬁnd a guru. Your guru is angelic, miraculous”. Then Shriram discussed with Baba about some advanced-level transcendental sadhanas, deeper facets of spirituality, etc. While talking to Ravatji, Shriram made only a brief mention regarding his meeting with the Baba. He also informed what Baba had been telling the devotees about India. He said, ‘Baba is very optimistic about the

Joy is the best companion, virtue is the noblest acquaintance, wisdom is the cleverest friend, and love is the kindest soul mate. - Matshona Dhliwayo AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

bright future of India. Citing many examples, scriptural excerpts, and proofs, he predicts that India will progress very fast. The ancient Indian culture will revive and shine. We may learn about civic management and governance from the west, but gradually, the modern system will also be attracted to the principles and culture propounded by our Rishi-Munis and will begin to adopt the values they guided.’

beauty of these ﬂowers, plucking them to take home, etc., his journey that was destined to the temple will break in between. Similarly, if the attainment of siddhis that naturally occur with the progress of arduous spiritual sadhanas distracts a sadhaka, he would not be able to complete the sadhana.’

As Ravatji was curious to know about what kind of siddhis of the Baba people often talk about, Shriram informed him some. At the same time, he made it clear that he is never impressed by the magical powers of any yogi or accomplished saint. “I have experienced the force of spirituality of people like Neem Karoli Baba differently,” – he added. Noticing a question mark on Ravatji’s face, he explained – ‘Supernormal powers by which a yogi or siddha can do astonishing things (e.g., producing lotus in the air or some sweets in space, appearing at several distant spots simultaneously, walking on burning embers, surviving in the buried state without air, water, food, and light, for weeks at a stretch, etc.) are only the by-products of their sadhanas. These are like ﬂowers on the way to the temple. If one goes for the darshan of the deity in a temple, he would anyway get an opportunity to see these ﬂowers as well. If one gets trapped in watching the

“As far as I know of them, Devaraha Baba and Neem Karoli Baba, they have not let the path of their sadhana get distracted by siddhis. They have continued the spiritual journey far beyond. That is why, in their company, one is inspired to become good, to rise (from the ﬁlth of ignorance) and see the light (of the soul); one feels as though some invisible force is pulling them upwards, towards the Divine Sun (source of enlightenment)” — Shriram remarked. [To be Continued] ◙

Lord Buddha guided his disciples: ‘Listen Bhikshus! Just as a herdsman recognizes each of his own animals, a bhikshu should recognize each of the essential elements of his own body. Just as a herdsman knows the characteristics and tendencies of each animal, a bhikshu should know which actions of body, speech, and mind are worthy and which are not. Just as a herdsman scrubs his animals clean, a bhikshu must cleanse his mind and body of desires, attachments, anger, and aversions.’ Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for. – Zig Ziglar AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Facing the Problem is also

Solution of the Problem

roblems of myriad kinds are a part of life. It is desirable to face these problems wisely and with fortitude and search for ways to come out of their tangle. To put off the problems for a while might occasionally be a part of the resolution strategy, but the tendency to procrastinate or always drag feet gives birth to a chain of other problems. They will ultimately assume an ominous form and begin to affect the whole life adversely. In a person’s life pattern, many seemingly minor events of negligence and bad habits grow strong over the years and become the cause of many mental and physical ailments. If no effort is made in time to reform the lifestyle, they take the form of serious and incurable diseases one day. We daily come across people suffering their painful results. If a timely corrective step had been taken earlier, such a miserable situation would not have arisen in the ﬁrst place. This is true in respect of carelessness or laxity adopted in other ﬁelds of life too. When the problems in life become grave, they begin to engage and control a person’s whole time, energy, and attention. They become the cause of the person’s anxiety, depression, and extreme grief. Then one begins to regret why he did not try for a solution earlier. Whatever be the problem, one can most possibly get over it by adopting the proper method to solve it in time. First of all, it is imperative to accept that a problem exists, and then an attempt is made to identify its nature. It is only by acknowledging the existence of the problem that one can proceed in the direction of its solution. Thinking over

the issue well makes the resolution easier; otherwise, it develops many complexities, and one becomes scared to face it later. By directly looking into the eyes of the problem and facing it squarely with grit and determination, one begins to realize that the solution was indeed not so difﬁcult or risky as it was initially perceived to be. It had assumed enormous proportions because of attempts to postpone or neglect it and not because of any concrete underlying basis. Thus, if our life is not ﬁlled with expected happiness and contentment, we can identify by introspection the problems which lie at the root of this dissatisfaction and which we have been hitherto avoiding to face. By drawing nourishment from our fear and escapism, these problems have become the cause of huge mental agony, apprehension, and misery. By going to the root of these problems one by one and tackling them with wisdom and courage, they can be eliminated, and the basis of a happy life can be prepared. ◙

Few things in the world are more powerful than a positive push - A smile, a world of optimism and hope, a ‘you can do it’ attitude when things are tough. - Richard M. DeVos AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Yug Geeta - 30

Janma Karma ca me Divyam (My Birth and Action are Divine) Interpretation of Avatara according to our times aram Pujya Gurudev writes in Akhand Jyoti (Hindi) magazine of August 1979, ‘It is the ideological heroism that is Avatara. It is generated as a strong emotional flow and inspires innumerable people…..Pragyavatara is the second half of Buddhavatara. Solving the problems of the intellectual era demand reasoning. The beliefs, thoughts, and desires are sources of inspiration, and society flows according to them. Therefore, the form of Avatara should befit the times. Immorality, undesirability, and blind faith filled in the minds of the masses these days can only be corrected through Vichar Kranti (Thought Revolution). (see page 23).’ One can easily understand from this interpretation that the forms of Avatara are different in different circumstances. In order to comprehend them, it is essential to awaken farsighted wisdom. This is the reason the sadhana of Gayatri has been prescribed in the present times.

We have been continuously discussing the statement of Lord Krishna – ‘Sambhavami yuge yuge.’ (I incarnate

in every era, and my objective is obvious, ‘Establish Dharma and make an appropriate environment for this purpose.’)’ One thing is clear from this statement that the birth of Avatara or Incarnation is a continuous process. It never ends. Swami Akhilananda of Ramakrishna Mission, after reviewing the book of James Hewitt titled ‘Christ, the savior of humankind,’ wrote that its title should be changed. It should be ‘Christ, a savior.’ ‘Christ, the savior’ means that Christ is the only savior, only incarnation, whereas ‘Sambhavami yuge yuge’ means whenever there is need, He will manifest; sometimes as Buddha, other times as Rama, or Krishna, or Prophet Mohammad or as Christ. He writes, ‘Considering a particular Avatara as ﬁnal is wrong. Whenever God incarnates, He appears to manifest the process of transformation. In the development of western civilization, the growth of consciousness did not reach that level where our ancient seer/sages had reached. That is why they said, ‘Christ is the limit.’ Param Pujya Gurudev writes, ‘Mahakal (Time Spirit) is the power that completes the objective of transformation of the era. This power acts as Rudra and does his work in ﬁerce mode.’ A sentence appears in Srimadbhagavata, ‘Avat³r³¡ hyaanantaïca’ that is, Avataras are many, not one. A seer says, ‘Avatara, in whatever soul it descends - whether he is Guru Gobind Singh, or Banda Vairagi or Bhagat Singh or Subhash Chandra Bose, or Mahatma Gandhi, or Sri Aurobindo, or Swami Vivekananda, gets his assigned task completed by him.’ Thakura Shri Ramakrishna Paramahansa says, ‘First we

Set thy heart upon thy work, but never on its reward. - Veda Vyasa, The Bhagavad Gita AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

heard of ten Avataras, then twenty-four and now many. God incarnates depending on the problems of prevalent times.’ In the West, many thinkers like Hegel, Hume, etc., talked of many things. Their talks are based on the philosophical hypothesis and rest on the wings of imagination. Whereas the rishis (seers) ﬁrst peeped into the future and then gave statements. The Gita is not a hypothesis; it is a statement, an experience, and an authentic message. Know the essence of divine birth and action Lord Krishna endorses in the next ïloka the declaration done in ïlokas 7 and 8 – Janma karma ca me divyameva® yo vetti tattvata¡ | tyaktv³ deha® punarjanma naiti m³meti so”rjuna || 9/4 Meaning: He who thus knows my divine birth and action in the true light, after having abandoned the body is not born again; he comes to Me, O Arjuna! This ïloka is very touching. It is carrying a hidden meaning in it. Its interpretation starts after all the discussions of Avatarahood are over. It goes on to let the person know the principle of rebirth, get the knowledge of the Supreme Spirit in the true light, and guide the way to attain Him. Getting incarnated in the human body by the Supreme Spirit is indeed a supernatural task. Lord is calling it to be a mystery. According to one deﬁnition, God is ‘Aja,’ the one who is not born. Even then, He incarnates with the help of His own power of Maya. His heart melts on watching the sufferings of the masses and incarnates to liberate them from such conditions. According to scriptures, all beings take birth according to their actions in the past or destiny. But God takes birth by His will for social welfare. No good or bad destiny is attached to it, and hence it can only be divine. Let us focus for a moment on the words of Lord Shri Krishna, ‘My birth and action are divine.’ This ‘I’ is not ego-centered.

This sentence is Rishi’s statement and has been said after the experience. This is God’s ‘I.’ Swami Vivekananda was on a spiritual tour of South India. During religious discussions, local Pandits said, ‘Adi Shankaracharya used to say…’ Swamiji quickly said, ‘What He said, keep it aside. I, Vivekananda, am saying this; focus on my talk.’ When the disciples of Sri Aurobindo wished to know his reaction to this dialogue, Sri Aurobindo praised Vivekananda. He said, ‘This is not the ego of Vivekananda. He was talking, leaving aside ego, and getting established in Supreme Spirit. Therefore, whatever he said was true. In such a state, even if he proves Adi Shankaracharya wrong, we should not be surprised.’ This ‘I’ of God is the ‘Ana’l-Haqq’ (I am the Truth) of Mansur al-Hallaj; it is the Ana’l-Haqq of Sarmat (a Suﬁ saint). I am the soul. Sarmat got his head crushed by an elephant’s foot but refused to call the Sultan as Allah. Lord’s ‘I’ is Suﬁ’s ‘I.’ Mansur and Sarmat should be our exemplars. We are physical-bodied people, and our births are ordinary, and hence we cannot go beyond our physical bodies and get stabilized in our souls. If we can do so, we will be talking in the language of Avatara. The Avatara, descended for divine action, comes with empathy, embracing the whole

Perform all work carefully, guided by compassion. - Veda Vyasa, The Bhagavad Gita AKHAND JYOTI

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of creation in his heart. Therefore, there is nothing wrong when such incarnated soul says, ‘My birth and action are divine.’ What is true knowledge? Param Pujya Gurudev used to say, ‘You are worried about your own problems and yet aspire for self-knowledge. The day you get true knowledge, your heart will break on witnessing the sufferings of the masses. Learn to help the suffering people; learn to live for others.’ In order to bear the sufferings of others, a big heart like that of Swami Vivekananda and Pujya Gurudev is required. We should pay attention to what God incarnated Shri Krishna (who is established at the center of this creation) says to Arjuna. When Lord shows His ginormous form to Arjuna, only then the latter realizes who Krishna is – a great Avatara who has taken divine birth for divine action. It requires a tremendous endeavor to abandon selﬁshness and establish oneself in the consciousness of Avatara. The word ‘Divyam’ has been interpreted by Ramanujacharya and Acharya Shankar as ‘Aprakrut’ (not

of this world, godly) and full of prosperity. They have explained ‘Tattvata¡’ as ‘Svar¿pata¡’ (in true form). Lord is saying here, ‘My birth and action are divine and supernatural.’ With our ordinary intelligence, we cannot decide the reason for His birth and action. When He is in subtle form pervading the universe, why does He take birth in physical form? He does not have any assigned duties in all the three worlds; then why does He involve in worldly actions? The answer to these questions can be known by a person who has achieved self-realization. Though He is not tied to destiny to take birth, yet He takes birth and comes in action in physical form – why? A person who knows this mystery, who knows the plan of God, gets liberated forever. This is true knowledge, the essence of the Gita. The one who has realized this gets salvation and is never reborn. We have seen in earlier ïlokas that Lord is explaining the cause of His birth – protection of eternal dharma and transformation of the era for restoring peace and harmony in the world. This is the external aspect of His divine action, and this helps in removing the obstacles of humanity to proceed towards virtuous endeavors. The inner aspect of this divine action is that His super- consciousness helps uplift the consciousness of the masses. ◙ [To be continued] [Note: This is the translation of the Hindi version of ‘Yug Gita’ (Part 2) by Dr. Pranav Pandya, published by Sri Vedmata Gayatri Trust, Shantikunj, Haridwar (2011)]

Where there is righteousness in the heart, there is beauty in the character. When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home. When there is harmony in the home, there is order in the nation. When there is order in the nation, there is peace in the world. - A. P. J. Abdul Kalam The senses wander, and when one lets the mind follow them, it carries wisdom away like a windblown ship on the waters. - Veda Vyasa, The Bhagavad Gita AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Plant Trees & Save Lives

ollution is taking on the form of an epidemic today. The quality of air in cities and towns is getting deteriorated due to heavy pollution. Its price is being paid in the form of major disasters. According to the World Health Organization’s Air Pollution Database, of the 15 most polluted cities globally, 14 are in India. They include Varanasi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Patna, and Gaya. The condition of Delhi, the capital of the country, has often been like a gas chamber where a cloud of poisonous mist is seen often, which makes it difﬁcult for even a healthy person to breathe. According to a report in the Lancet Medical Journal, over ten lakh people die every year due to air pollution in India. Delhi is among the top 30 cities in the world in terms of dangerous carbon emissions. The primary reasons for these elevated carbon emissions are the poisonous gases being released from the vast heaps of garbage, and toxic smoke emanated from industrial units, and the increased number of vehicles on the roads. To control air pollution in Delhi and other cities of the country, it is recommended that people reduce the use of private vehicles and adopt public transportation, and at the same time increase greenery by promoting large-scale tree plantations. Despite the huge claims and promises for environmental protection, the destruction of trees is multiplying. Due to the lack of vegetation, the wrath of nature is becoming increasingly evident. The government, too, does not hesitate in issuing orders to annihilate lakhs of trees in the name of urban development

for building long expressways. A few months ago, an order was given to cut 16,500 trees in Delhi, but thanks to Chipko Movement, the people of Delhi started a mass campaign, forcing the government to withdraw its decision to cut down these trees. Unfortunately, the situation is not the same elsewhere in the country. Be it the Himalayan region or the catchment area of the Ganges and its tributaries, th o usands of giant trees are ruthlessly felled. To make the Char Dham Yatra enjoyable, millions of years o l d green trees were cut down in a radius of about 900 kilometers to widen the roads. Admittedly, buildin g wider expressways to speed up the country’s development is the need of the hour, but when will the government concur that the environmen t al balance is deteriorating due t o the destruction of millions of trees across the country in the name of development? In such a situation, due to the destruction of green trees, how will life on the planet, including h u mans, be safe? If life itself will not be secure, then what good is this development? Why don’t we unders t and that as

Trees are as close to immortality as the rest of us ever come. - Karen Joy Fowler AKHAND JYOTI

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dense forests decrease, the scope of natural disasters like floods, drought, and smog in the country will increase? Trees not only provide us emotional and spiritual peace but also keep the soil in place and protect us from the danger of floods and landslides. Trees keep the surrounding atmosphere clean by absorbing carbon dioxide. Rainfall is influenced significantly by the trees. They renew nutrients and also absorb toxins from the environment. Trees provide fertilizers, medicines, and shelter for wildlife. If the roads have to be widened to speed up the development work, then new methods should be found to meet the objectives of the development work while saving the majority of the trees. A report released by the New York Department of Environmental Protection says that 100 giant trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 200 kilograms of other air pollutants and also helps in stopping 530,000 liters of rainwater. According to this report, well-placed trees around the house not only reduce AC consumption by 53% in summer but also reduce cold winds in winter. This report has also mentioned that people living in an environment full of trees are safer and more sociable. Another report states that an increase of 1 gram in the weight of any tree

results in 2.66 grams of extra oxygen. According to the Indian Forest Conservation report, dense forests in the country have decreased rapidly, from 11.48 % in 1999 to 2.61% today. According to this report, in m any states of the country like Uttarakhand, Telangana, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Tripura, H a ryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Mahara s htra, Bihar, Jharkhand, Dadar Nagar Haveli, etc. forests are reduced drastically. Due to the narrowing of dense forests, wildlife is being forced to move towards cities and towns. According to a report of Nature Journal, t h ere are about 35 billion trees in India at this time, which means about 28 trees per person. This figure is not as pleasant as it sounds because most of these 35 bil l ion trees are in dense forests and not in different cities or towns. Due to the indiscriminate cutting of trees, the area of dense forests is also decreasing rapidly. In order to keep the environment pure in any place, the forest area should be dense there. A Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report states a deficit of over 9 lakh trees in Delhi. Air pollution in Delhi has increased by about 400% due to the decrease in greenery in the last five years. The climate cycle in the country is altering rapidly. The Climate Crisis is deepening, and the only way to deal with such environmental problems is to increase the density of trees. Be it air pollution, water pollution, or nature conservation, these problems can only be dealt with by planting more and more trees. In the absence of clean air, people are falling prey to different kinds of terrible diseases. It is also affecting their fertility and work capacity. The only solution to all these problems is to plant trees and maintain cleanliness around them. ◙

The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit. - Nelson Henderson AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Amrit Vani

Annamaya Koïa S³dhan³ Boons of Physical Labor (English version of some excerpts of a discourse - continued from the previous issue) In the earlier two articles of this series, Gurudev’s eloquent and logically appealing explanation of real god-forms (divine powers, devat³s) was presented. He elaborated on the signiﬁcance of the s³dhan³ of annamaya koïa (the physical body including its functional core - the mind-body system). He also taught, with real-life examples, the secret of worshiping this devat³. Considering the predominant comfort-driven attitude and preferences of the modern way of living, he has given clear warning against lethargy and excessive comforts. He has also given enlightening examples of the rich people and the revered saints who practiced and signiﬁed the importance of self-help. The Curse of Lethargy: Most of you don’t care for the righteous efforts to protect, augment and expand the invaluable resources gifted by the almighty in your physical being. Worst is the fact that many of you, like many others in our society, seem to follow the prevailing trend of keeping maids for domestic help simply so that you and your family will not have to do any physical work. Even those who or whose family members have time and potential for home-making/ housekeeping hire external help. In many families, physical labor is seen as down-graded, and having servants/ domestic help at home is considered proof of dignity and prosperity.

Some people want to marry their daughters in such families where they will not have to do any work. Once, someone was boasting — “I have got my daughter married in a welloff family; she has a good cook, a maid for cleaning who also does dusting, and mopping, a gardener, and maids for cleaning the utensils and washing the clothes, and other domestic tasks.” To such people, my advice would be that next time when you happen to meet your son-in-law, ask him also to keep some more helpers — one who would brush the teeth on your daughter’s behalf, one who would eat and digest her food on her behalf, etc. This way, your daughter will not have to take any trouble for these tasks too, and she would relax on her luxurious bed more comfortably without any disruption. Such mentality is pathetic! Because of this shortsighted mentality and a false sense of ‘well-off status,’ people protect their children from hard physical work. They

Rule your mind, or it will rule you. - Horace AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

don’t realize that sans adequate exercise, the organs and other faculties of the body would get rusted. Laziness and lethargy eventually invite infirmity, diseases, and decline in wellbeing, prosperity, and prestige. Diligence Brings and Protects Prosperity: There are contrary examples as well. Look at those who continue to work hard despite earning riches and status. I have come across many such affluent persons too. You might have also read about some great leaders and industrialists who, despite being honored globally or being billionaires, preferred living a simple life and doing most of their personal work themselves. In my view, such people are “s³dhakas” of their profession/business or chosen field of work. Time and again, I would like to remind you that “s³dhan³” means “s³dha len³” — to control, to refine, to make perfect. S³dhakas of physical strength become healthy and physically strong; they may also become good wrestlers. S³dhakas of intelligence and scholarly studies become intellectuals, scholars, etc. S³dhakas of hard labor in the farms become prosperous farmers, and so on. Let me now tell you about someone who may not be well known but who followed similar principles and diligent practices and cultivated good values and habits in his family. This gentleman lived in “Gamadi,” a small village in the “Anand” district of Gujarat. He was shocked and depressed after tragic death of his only son at the young age of 14 years. A well-wisher advised him to see me, as my blessings always come true. He met me and, in tears, prayed for my blessings so that his family would become happy. Friends, I told him that I would pray to the Almighty for him. God knows whether it was the result of my prayers or not,

but within a year, a baby boy was born in his family. Since then, he started visiting here every year; he used to donate pure ghee for the “AkhañÃa Dºpa”; the weight of donated ghee used to be proportional to his son’s age — e.g., 9 kg when the son completed nine years of age, …, 22 kg when he was 22 years old [….]. He had deep faith that it is the divine power of the sacred “AkhañÃa Dºpa” here, which has blessed him. Once, when I visited that region (for some program of our “Yug Nirman” mission), he requested me to visit his house as well; he came to receive me in a car. I told him that we could have traveled the 6 km in a bullock cart itself (which is quite suitable for a village), he should not have bothered and spent money hiring a car for me. I agreed to sit in his car on the condition that on my way back, he would drop me in a bullock cart. But he did not agree and replied that he is not spending any extra money, as it is his own car; he had bought it for his daughters who were to travel to the town for their college studies. He further informed that he and every member of his family (including his daughters) works very hard in the farms saying, “our farms return huge amount of healthy crops, like ‘silver and gold’ for the sweat/ diligence we sacriﬁce in the soil.”

Everything is within your power, and your power is within you. - Janice Trachtman AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

A Prophet Gloriﬁes Hard Work: Hazrat Ibrahim is revered in Islam as a prophet and messenger of God. Many incidents of his angelic life, narrated in Islamic scriptures, inspire noble teachings. One such story is that — one day, engrossed in the holy thoughts of Khuda (God) on his way, he reached near a farming ﬁeld. A farmer was working there. It was in the afternoon, Hazrat Ibrahim was feeling hungry. He lived like a fakir eating only whatever food he received in alms. So, he asked the farmer whether he would give some food as alms. The farmer offered him food but also asked him about his identity and work. Hazrat Ibrahim told him that he is a devotee of Khuda and keeps walking to different places to spread His light; he survives on the minimum essential that he accepts from the alms. The farmer was a hard-working man. He somehow did not appreciate the idea of anybody’s living on alms. So he remarked that it is shameful to take food without exerting any labor to get it. He suggested that the visitor should work for at least six hours every day to earn his own bread/ living and do his devotional duties and prayers in the remaining part of the day. “Else, the auspicious effects (puñyas) of your devotion would get credited only to the person who offered you the alms,” - he warned the fakir (Hazrat).

Hazrat Ibrahim respected the farmer’s sincere advice. While thanking the latter for the kind advice, he also said that as his village is left far behind, it would be a great help if he (the farmer) gets him some work in this village itself and also guides him to get some place where he could build a hut to stay. “I will work hard and leave no room for any complaint.” - Hazrat said politely. If you are ready to work honestly, I can assign you the work to look after my fruit garden, which I have cultivated in a nearby plot. I will give you food and cloth for it; you can also have a shelter in the garden itself — the farmer proposed. Hazrat accepted his offer. He used to work in the garden and also guard it. Several months passed; several trees blossomed with varieties of fruits in their natural season. One of those days, the farmer came to visit the garden. He was delighted to see the ﬂowers and fruits. He asked Hazrat Ibrahim to get some properly ripe, sweet fruits for him. Hazrat promptly plucked some big and yellow (ripe) fruits, washed them, and handed them over to the farmer. The farmer quickly picked up one and started eating it, but it turned out that the fruit’s taste was sour. He threw it and tried another one, but it also tasted sour; the third one too was not sweet. What is this? Don’t you know which of the fruits would taste sweet and which would be sour? There are some trees that produce sweet fruits; the fruits on some others are not so sweet, some are sour or require some more time to ripe. How come you don’t know it; haven’t you tasted any of the fruits? - The farmer reacted? Hazrat politely replied that he had tasted only one or two fruits that had fallen on the soil on their own; honestly, he has the right to taste only those. How can I pluck a fruit? I am supposed to guard this garden; how can I be dishonest in my duty? Then what kind of

Grateful souls focus on the happiness and abundance present in their lives, and this, in turn, attracts more abundance and joy towards them. - Stephen Richards AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

devotee will I be? His words were uttered through his heart and reﬂected his greatness. The farmer had now realized the true virtues of this great man! “You are a saintly person. You should not do the hard labor. I will send someone to do that job. You stay here and do your prayers and devotional practices as you wish. I will continue to provide food and other things as per your needs.” - he said in a soft voice. The next day, instead of waiting for the fakir to collect the food from his house, the farmer himself came with the food, but he only found Hazrat’s letter there. “You are not the person who taught me to survive on whatever I could earn through sincerely by means of my own hard labor. How can you now tell me only to do devotional practices and survive on the alms? How can I now repeat the same mistake? I should better leave this place.” — the letter said. The prophet had left that place for an unknown destination. Friends, thereafter, Hazrat Ibrahim ate only what he earned honestly from his hard labor throughout his life. He used to survive on the minimum and generously distribute

most of his food/earnings among the needy. His mind and heart remained engrossed in prayers all the time. He was a true devotee whose saintly words and deeds disseminated the message of divinity. Indeed, this is the true siddhi (paranormal quality, supernatural potential) of an angelic being; this is what is revered forever. Apart from the scriptural narrations of the divine incarnations and angelic beings, the lives of great personalities of our times also guide us to the path of siddhis through dedicated endeavors (s³dhan³). Many ordinary beings too, who followed this path sincerely, have accomplished extraordinary goals. I will now tell you about some incredible but real achievements, in the present times, through the s³dhan³ of annamay koïa. ◙ (To be continued)

Ramanuja was a great scholar and an emotional devotee of God. Once he was taking a round of the temple, he suddenly saw a woman in unkempt clothes. He felt that the woman might not have even bathed. He called out to her in arrogance, “Why are you making the temple impure?” The woman said, “You are pure; this temple is pure, and because of the devotees who walk this path, the dust of this temple has become pure too. Then where shall I take my impure self? Please tell me.” These words shook Ramanuja. With folded hands and full of regret, he said, “What you say is right. I have committed a great sin by calling you impure. I could not understand the purity of your worship; please forgive me.” Small shifts in your thinking, and small changes in your energy, can lead to massive alterations of your end result. - Kevin Michel AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

The Debt of Hanumanji

here is an episode from epic Ramayana. Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after winning the war of Lanka. Close associates like Vibhishana, Jamavanta, Sugreeva, Angada, etc., who helped Rama in this war, returned to their homes after Rama’s coronation. But Hanumanji still stayed there. Courtiers started whispering about why Hanumanji was continuing to stay and who would ask him to go. They approached Mother Sita and requested her to tell Hanumanji to go from Ayodhya. Mother Sita said, “I was restless when I was kept captive in Lanka. Each day felt like a Kalpa (an immense period, reckoned as 4,320 million human years). Then Hanumanji arrived with Prabhu Rama’s ring and tried to comfort me with these words: ‘Kachhuka divas Janani dharu dheera, kapinha sahita aaihahin raghuvira. Nisichara maari tohi lai jaihahin, tinhu pur naardadi jasu gahahin.’ (meaning – Mother! Wait for a few days. Lord Rama will come here along with the army of Kapis. He will kill all these nishacharas (nocturnal creatures) and rescue you from their clutches.).’ Therefore, I will never ask my son (Hanumanji) to leave Ayodhya. You may ask someone else to do this job.” Now it was the turn of Lakshmanaji. On asking the same question, Lakshmanaji said, “I was lying unconscious on the battleﬁeld. The whole army was weeping for me. ‘Prabhu pralap suni kan vikal bhaye vanar nikar, aai gayau hanuman jimi karuna manh vir rasa.’(meaning – watching their leader Rama cry, all the vanaras too started moaning; in the meantime, Hanumanji arrived, which restored the army’s courage.) The one who is talking is actually Hanuman’s

Lakshmana. How can I ask him to go from Ayodhya?” When the same question was asked from Bharataji, he started weeping. He said, “There is already a blemish of expelling Prabhu Rama from Ayodhya. Now all of you together are putting another stigma on my name. In fact, I had already lit my pyre in Nandigram. It was Hanumanji who informed me, ‘Ripu ran jeeti sujas sur gavat, Sita sahit anuj prabhu avat.’ (meaning: After winning the war and the victory praised by gods, Prabhu Rama is returning home along with Sita and brother Lakshmana.) So I was saved from attempting suicide. How can I tell him to leave Ayodhya? Ask someone else to do it. Now, who was left? Only brother Shatrughna! As soon as they approached him, Shatrughna said, ‘Nowhere in Ramayana, I have said anything. Then why are you people asking me to speak, that too, for sending out Hanumanji - the person who saved mother Sita, brothers Lakshmana and Bharata - from Ayodhya. I certainly cannot ask him to leave.’

I slept and dreamt that life was a joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted, and behold, service was a joy. - Rabindranath Tagore AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Finally, all of them looked at Prabhu Rama. Mother Sita said, ‘Prabhu! You are the Lord of three lokas (worlds) and also feel shy in front of Hanumanji. You always say – prati upkar karaun ka tora, sanmukh hoi na sakat man mora (meaning: what can I do for you? I can’t face you.) What is your opinion in this regard?’ Lord Rama then said, ‘Devi! I am indebted to Hanumanji. That is why I say - sanmukh hoi na sakat man mora. It is tough to get rid of the debt of Hanumanji. Rama is incapable of it. Why? Because one has to repay on equal terms. Listen! How can I pay for the obligation of Hanumanji? First, let Hanumanji marry, then Lankesh (Ravana) kidnaps his wife. In order to rescue her, Rama, carrying a ring, crosses the impassable sea. Then only Raghunatha can repay the divine debt of Hanumanji.’ ‘Devi! It is not that simple to get rid of the debt of Hanumanji. I have not said it in a lighter vein - ‘sunu sut tohi urin mein nahin (meaning: Listen, my son! I am indebted to you). I have said this after deep contemplation. However, if you say I would ask him in the royal court tomorrow what Hanumanji wants in return to his service to me.’

The next day, when the royal court was in session, all the courtiers were eager to know what Hanumanji would ask for and what King Rama would give him. Lord Rama said, ‘Hanuman! Everyone helped me a lot in the war against Ravana, and I have given all of them some or the other Pada (positions of authority). Vibhishana and Sugreeva were given Rajapada (kingdoms of Lanka and Kishkindha, respectively), and Angada got Yuvaraj pada (crowned as prince). Now you tell me, what do you want?’ Hamnumanji said, ‘Prabhu! The names you counted got only one pada, and you always say that – te mam priya lachhman te doona (my love towards you is double that of Lakshmana). Then can I ask for two padas?’ All the courtiers thought Hanumanji to be right in asking for two positions. Lord Rama said, ‘All right! You may ask.’ Everyone was happy in the sense that now the debt of Hanumanji would be repaid. Hanumanji said, ‘Prabhu! The padas that you have given to others may produce arrogance in me, and hence I am not interested in these royal positions.’ Then which pada you want? - Asked Lord Rama. Hanumanji held both the feet of Ramaji. He said, ‘Prabhu! Hanuman wants only these two padas (feet).’ Tulasidasji has rightly said – ‘Hanumat sam nahin kou badhbhagi, nahin kou ramcharan anuragi’ (There is no one more fortunate than Hanuman. Neither there is anyone who has more devotion to Rama’s feet.) Then onwards, Hanumanji became a permanent member of Rama Darbar (Royal Court of Rama). This is the reward of the selﬂess service of Hanumanji. ◙

Selfless service has always been one of the most powerful methods of influence. - Stephen Covey AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Cultivate Generosity

he body may be beautiful or well-adorned. But it is useful only when consciousness is present in it. Even loving ones will be eager to get rid of a lifeless body. Gentleness may be a valuable virtue, but it cannot be considered great if it is not associated with humility. Wealth can provide the means and facilities, but if it is not used appropriately, it can neither protect one’s life nor help another one. The mistake we have been committing is singing the glories of wealth and considering it an enhancer of fame and abilities. This is a gross misconception. If it were true, then wealthy people would have worked for the world’s welfare, and backwardness would have been wiped out. If the rich’s hoarded wealth could be used to uplift the downtrodden and scarcity-stricken masses of the land, then the world map would have been different. There is adequate wealth in the world. If it can be shared judiciously, all people can live happily and proceed on the path of overall progress. But when wealth is used for pleasure, hoarding, and a display of ego, it is not only being wasted but also building an undesirable environment. If the course of a waterfall is blocked, it creates dangerous ﬂoods. If an elephant is not controlled, it will go on stamping in the ﬁelds, uprooting the trees and plants, and pulling down huts. Even the people who come in its way are not spared. Wealth is like a crazy elephant; it needs to be commanded by generosity. The only curse of modern society is that everyone wants

to spend their earnings and wealth for selfish ends, displaying ego and majestic living. If this trend continues, its horrifying consequences will be much more visible in the future. The stomach capacity is limited; if you fill it beyond that capacity, it will create problems in the form of diseases like vomiting, dysentery, and ulcers. If one understands this awful reality, it leads to only one conclusion: Whatever money one may earn by honest means has to be spent on righteous living. This is true not only for money but also for capabilities, skills, education, and other resources. These virtues should also be ethically used for arresting the downfall. The three treasures of the physical plane are considered the means of progress. The fortunes of an individual or society are based on wealth, health, and competence. This is fine, so long as the restraints of morality, social responsibility, and the noble virtues are strictly applied. Man can earn any amount as long as immoral means and improper methods are not used. However, the earnings should not be considered entirely his own.

By becoming the answer to someone’s prayer, we often find the answer to our own. - Dieter F. Uchtdorf AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

It must be remembered that man is a social animal and his overall progress is possible only with the contribution and cooperation of society. Whatever has been received from the community has to be repaid. Otherwise, it may be considered plundering, and all the doors to show gratitude or repay the debt to society by returning its favors will be closed. In such a situation, only two categories of people will remain -the exploiters and the exploited. Then there will be no place for a system of cooperation, co-sharing, and equality to develop. If empathy and generosity are missing from life, then ruthlessness in which capable people will exploit the weak will prevail. If the big-ﬁsh-swallowing-the-small ﬁsh type of society prevails, then all the greatness attached to the human birth and man being acclaimed as the heir of the Divine and the crown prince of evolution will have no meaning. If the policy of “earn and eat” is accepted, then the innocent, undeveloped, handicapped, and incapable people will lose the right to live. According to the economic laws, half of the human population must commit suicide in such a case. Even older people will lose the right to live. The scenario of the world will resemble a jungle, where one wolf eats up another. How dreadful will the world be then? The capable people of the family earn, and others survive on that. This can be termed as responsibility, tradition, and generosity. This is the correct distribution of resources. This is the proper form of sharing. This can also be called pious and worthy living. The glory of human life cannot be attributed to anything less. The utility of the wealth also lies in its sharing. This is the way to uplift the oppressed and lead them to further progress.

The practice of gau-grass, daily panch yagya of the Indian tradition, zakat in Islam, and karah prasad in Sikhism — are all rituals based on the principle of sharing the daily meal. Time is also a resource. It constitutes wealth. Everyone possesses this type of wealth but in varying degrees. A wealthy person can easily share his resources, but even in a busy schedule and limited means, one must curtail some of his comforts and regularly set aside some part of his resources for selfless objectives. To be miserly on this front is a betrayal of human virtue. Charity is sometimes virtue and sometimes not. You can use a weapon for good as well as evil. Only if the charity is invested in the refinement of thoughts, emotion, and empathy can we be sure that virtue has been rightly utilized to create a bright future and for the implementation of yugdharma. Otherwise, foolish people will be cheated by the wicked ones in one way or another. They will be misled in the name of virtue. It should be remembered that the magnificent plan of creating a bright future cannot be achieved without arousing a flow of idealistic emotions and thoughts. ◙

You often say, ‘I would give, but only to the deserving.’ The trees in your orchard say not so, nor the flocks in your pasture. They give that they may live, for to withhold is to perish. - Kahlil Gibran That’s what I consider true generosity: You give your all, and yet you always feel as if it costs you nothing. - Simone de Beauvoir AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021

Keep

Smiling!

smile has special significance in human life. A smiling face also brings a smile to the faces of others, so one should always keep smiling in favorable and adverse circumstances. It not only makes us happy but also disseminates joy to those coming into our contact. A smile is like a life-giving elixir in our life, so we should keep trying to smile and spread happiness in every situation. It is also a yogic practice by which our organs and various body parts stay healthy. It is a subject of expression of emotions, sensitivity, and perception. Everyone likes a smiling face, the gesture which disseminates optimism and bliss all around. Although it comes in a moment, its pleasant reflection continues to persist for a long time. A smile can be categorized according to various age groups. The smile of children is pleasing to everyone because it is ingenious and selfless. Children keep laughing and giggling without any reason, and because of this smile, they not only spread happiness but also attract one and all towards them. The smile of the adolescents may have passion and love. Their smile may

also be complemented with sarcastic and helpful gestures. Perhaps, the smile can also be implicit in the manifestation of the acceptance of appreciation of beauty. Further, in old age, the smile of the elderly is felicitous primarily and endowed with benedictions, which have an inherent treasure of blessings and good wishes. Not only this, the smile that comes because of accomplishing noble deeds is contenting in nature, while the one that comes in happy moments spreads joy all around. Besides, people with different attributes, temperaments, and interests can have other expressions of smiles. In the stressful scenario of the present time, people have almost forgotten to smile. The greater the work- pressure on the families, the more their faces are devoid of smiles. When a person is depressed, he gets into despair, and then a smile vanishes from his face. But when one is enthusiastic and optimistic and full of joy and zeal, the first gesture to express this is the appearance of a smile on his face. One becomes serious when problems come in life, but on finding their solution, he begins to smile. When a new thought, a plan, an encouraging presumption, or a pleasant old memory comes to the mind, then a smile emerges on its own. Upon observing, one would find that a single gesture of smile makes a face free from tension and grief. Smile not only gives happiness to oneself but spreads the smile on many faces, and thus many people get benefitted from it in a single moment. If we could inculcate the habit of smiling always, it will become a part of our nature, which will keep us healthy and happy and inspire the people around us to do the same. ◙

A simple smile. That’s the start of opening your heart and being compassionate to others. – Dalai Lama AKHAND JYOTI

MAY-JUNE 2021