RISK OF READING DR. SHRINIWAS
KASHALIKAR The most important purpose; and effect of reading books of philosophy, biographies of saints and scriptures is to get oriented to one’s true self. Considering oneself as a mere and mortal body (as is done by atheists) is a kind of illusion and hence; such reading is very important for freedom from such illusion. However, such reading frequently leads to (inspite of honest and good intention) fancying oneself or actually assuming oneself as a guru or a spiritual savior of a caste, creed, religion or even mankind! This is sometimes associated with illusions and hallucinations which are publicized (by the followers) as miraculous powers. This can lead to
motivational effect in terms of urge to or even obsession to; preach, persuade, coax, brainwash, convert, or oppress, repress, persecute and even kill others! The person concerned is pathetically confused and/or in conflicts; and makes others also miserable; under the illusion of bringing about social revolution, reform etc. It does not mean that one should not read. What it means is that this risk has to be preempted, by a simultaneous activity called NAMASADHANA i.e. NAMASMARAN i.e. remembrance of NAMA i.e. name of God. This helps an individual to blossom from the state of inflated ego, or fancying oneself as a guru, or feeling like being a savior; to actually realizing the truth (perhaps also, actually being a true guru or a savior)!
NAMASADHANA or practice of NAMASMARAN is the key; to protect any good intention from aberrations and transform or culminate into universally benevolent activity. One can tally one’s experiences and verify the validity of this statement.