1

All Are One; Be Alike To Everyone

The sun appears serene and peaceful. The days have become shorter, and the cool wind is blowing. The fields are ripe with golden crops. Marigold flowers are blossoming like garlands of pearls on the banks of rivers. The farmers are rejoicing and singing. The sweet festival of Sankranti comes in the month of Pushya (a month in Indian calendar), filling our homes with the newly harvested grain.

(Telugu poem)

MAN needs several objects in this world; yet,
none of them is permanent. All are like passing clouds. What you think as permanent in this world is, in fact, impermanent. Hence, one has to strive to achieve that which is permanent, real and eternal. The Bhagavad Gita declares, “Mamaivamso jivaloke jivabhuta sanathana” (the eternal Atma in all beings is a part of My Being). I am in you, with you, around you, above you, below you. There is no place in this Universe where God is not present. Similarly, there is no name or object which does not belong to Him. The Upanishads proclaim the same truth in the declarations, “Easwara sarva bhutanam” (God is the Indweller of all beings) and “Isavasyam idam sarvam” (the entire universe is permeated by God). Unable to realise this truth, the human being laments “wherever I look, I find only human beings; I am not able to find God”. “Yad bhavam tad bhavathi” (as are the feelings, so are the results) Supposing you wear a particular dress and stand before a mirror, you will find the same reflection in the mirror. Similarly, your own thoughts and feelings reflect in the outside world. Everything is reaction, reflection and resound. Your own life style is reflected in the outside world. Whatever you speak comes back to you as a reply. But, people think that it is someone else who is speaking these words. This is the truth. However, different people explain this truth in different ways in keeping with the aphorism, “Ekam Sat viprah bahudha vadanti” (truth is one, but the wise refer to it by various names). Every form you see in the outside world is in fact your own reflection.

Basic Human Values Are The Vital Airs Of Human Being

There are several thousand people gathered in this hall. But, there is only one heart in all of them; that is the spiritual heart. I am not referring to the physical heart. Unfortunately, people are unable to repose their faith in this spiritual heart, in spite of their best education. You are all educated, well educated.

In spite of his education and intelligence, a foolish man will not know his true Self and a mean-minded person will not give up his evil qualities. (Telugu poem)

This is not the type of education you have to pursue. This is the category of worldly education. This type of education we learn from an Institution under the guidance of a teacher. Today, all our education, words and speech are only artificial. There is something deeper which forms the basis for everything. That is fundamental truth. It does not come under the realm of education. It is ‘Educare’. Education is worldly whereas “educare” is other-worldly. Educare is not something that can be seen with the naked eye. It lies in the depth of our heart. It has to be brought out by conscious effort. Where is peace? Is it outside? No; only pieces and pieces are outside. Peace is in your heart. Similarly, love. Love is in your heart. It cannot be seen. Love is God; Live in Love. This also forms part of educare. So also non-violence. It is not in the outside world. The world today is torn apart with conflicts. We don’t find peace anywhere in the world. Truth, Righteousness, Peace, Love and Non-violence constitute the five vital airs of a human being (Panchapranas). Love is the undercurrent that flows in all these human values. Follow truth, keeping love as the basis in your heart. Truth is eternal. Truth is God. It is not subject to changes in time. Let love be reflected on the mirror of Truth. Whenever you come across a person not of your liking, you consider him as your enemy keeping in mind your worldly relationship with him. You begin to hate him. This is not correct. He is, in fact, not different from you. You and he are one only. Hence, it amounts to hating yourself. There is nothing like another person or object in this world. There is only one. First and foremost, we have to realise and follow this truth. Unfortunately today we are not able to find truth at all in this world. Whether it is in the field of education, politics or worldly life - we don’t find truth at all Even in the court of law, the seat of Justice, people swear upon God and speak untruth. Thus, wherever you go untruth or falsehood is rampant. People spend a lot of money for the sake of establishing truth. It is not necessary. If only people cultivate love for one another, it is enough. Whenever you come across someone whom you consider as your enemy, say, “Sir, my pranams to you”. He will, in turn offer his pranams to you. As are our feelings so are his. Our own thoughts and feelings are reflected by the other person.

Peace, Truth, Love Are In One’s Own Bosom Only

You don’t find peace at all in the world today. Wherever you go, you will find only ‘galata’ (confusion and conflict) - be it the market place, bazaar or a shop. Even if you go to a hotel, you will find someone quarrelling with the waiter saying, “this idly is not good, vada is not tasty or that dosa is not fried properly”, etc. You do not find order anywhere in this world. Everywhere it is confusion and conflict. In fact, the word ‘peace’ is not to be found anywhere in the world. On the other hand, the atmosphere here in Prasanthi Nilayam is totally different. There is absolute peace in this hall. You don’t find this peace anywhere else in the world. So also, the feeling of love. You do not find this love anywhere else. That is the reason why lakhs and lakhs of people from all over the world congregate here.

Why do people go to holy places and pray? For what purpose? For acquiring peace, happiness, bliss and love. These boys studied in Brindavan and Puttaparthi. They travelled all over the country and even abroad. But, they could not get peace of mind anywhere even for two minutes. In fact, peace is in one’s own mind. There is no use searching for peace in the outside world. Similarly, truth and love are also to be found in one’s own bosom only. When you cultivate love, you can achieve anything in the world. Swami is an Embodiment of Love. Love is His biggest property. My duty is to share that love with you all. If you are able to understand Swami’s love in true spirit and make use of it in proper way, you will prosper. Except Swami’s love, nothing can protect you. You will have to understand this Prema tatwa. All are brothers and sisters. But, differences arise even amongst the brothers and sisters. Hence, cultivate love for one another. Always maintain a cheerful disposition, with a sweet smile on your face. You should never put up a ‘castor-oil face’. Then only your life can become noble and ideal. You must always be happy and cheerful. What do you lack in? you have everything, with Swami’s love and grace.

Some people are not able to put up with difficulties. However, if only they keep a little patience, even that pain and suffering will turn out to be an occasion for rejoicing. Pleasure is an interval between two pains. “You are not one person, but three: the one you think you are; the one others think you are and the one you really are.” ‘The one you really are’ is the real truth. You must be reading several books. But if you are not able to keep your head in proper condition, all that reading will become useless. Hence, the ‘head’ is very important. That is ‘Educare’.

You must have read volumes and volumes of books, written by great people. Each one of the authors must have highlighted a particular aspect of Divinity. But, the sum total of all these descriptions that represent Divinity is one only. Sometimes, your own mind turns against you. It is the result of your own thoughts. Everything is reaction, reflection and resound. Both good and bad are in you only, not in the outside world. When your vision is bad, you will see bad. On the other hand, when your vision is good you will see God everywhere. If you forsake truth and love and begin to see the world from that stand point, then you will find differences everywhere.

The Feeling Of Oneness Brings Self-satisfaction

Embodiments of Love! Dear Students,

You are all working in far-off countries, yet you remember Swami and try to be in His Divine presence at least for a few days every year. This is your good fortune (loud applause). There could be only one reason for it, your love for Swami. But for the bond of love between you and Swami, you would not have come here along with your families incurring huge expenditure, undergoing a lot of physical strain. You must realise this truth. You might have studied in Brindavan or Prasanthi Nilayam and now working in different countries. Wherever you are, remember always that Swami is with you and in you. If someone enquires from where did you come, you will reply that you are from Brindavan or Prasanthi Nilayam. You say so for your own satisfaction. But, the truth is, Swami is in you, Brindavan is in you and Prasanthi Nilayam is in you only. If one wishes to attain self-satisfaction, one has to realise that all are one.

Religions are many but goal is one.

Clothes are many but yarn is one.

Jewels are many but gold is one.

Cows are many but milk is one.

Beings are many but breath is one.

Castes are many but humanity is one.

(Telugu poem)

Human beings may be of different complexion, but the bliss they experience in their hearts is only one. We must aspire for that bliss, disregarding individual differences. The differences are only temporary. Divinity is only one; it assumes different forms in different ages. Lord Vishnu assured different forms in Krita Yuga. The same Lord came as Lord Rama in the Treta and as Lord Krishna in the Dwapara Yugas (Ages). The same Divine principle (God) is referred to as Brahma (The Generator), Vishnu (the Organiser) and Maheshwara (the Destroyer). The different names are ascribed for the purpose of identification.

When someone enquires your name, you mention a particular name. In fact, that name was given to you by your parents. You were not born with that name. At the time of your birth, you were just a baby. The names were given subsequently. Unfortunately, today we are indulging in controversies even in the case of God, on the basis of names and forms. Whomever you come across, he or she is an embodiment of Divinity, verily. For example, you come across a beggar. He is also God. God is in that form. Hence, offer your salutations to him. Nothing wrong in doing so. All are one; be alike to everyone. Love all and serve all, be he a beggar or a millionaire.

Several changes may occur in this year, at the physical level. But, there will be no change at all in the spiritual realm. It is possible that there may be some conflicts here and there in the secular world. There may be a few permutations and combinations in the political field. Some new parties and alliances may be formed. ‘Parties, parties and parties’… what are ‘parties’, anyway? For tea only, not parties. We must treat all human beings alike. By doing so, all people will be happy. Good and bad, pleasure and pain - everything must be faced with a sense of equanimity. That is the foremost duty of a human being. The human mind is susceptible to several changes, on account of the food one takes and the company one moves in. The mind is like a mad monkey. It is not an ordinary monkey, but ‘mad monkey’. Strictly speaking, the mind is a component of the mankind. Hence, it should be kind. Unfortunately, today we are converting it into a monkey. A man should always be a man. Let others do whatever they wish to us, unknowingly. But, we should not consciously think in terms of doing harm to others. This is My advice.

Unity, A Step Towards Divinity

This body is approaching the 83rd year. In all these years, I have never done any harm to anyone or caused any pain to anyone. I have never spoken untruth. I always speak truth and truth only. It causes Me great pain when I see untruthfulness. Let us, therefore, speak only truth and nothing but truth. Surely, victory will be ours. You always tread the path of truth. Love all. It is easy to love someone, but quite difficult to hate. If you love others, there will be unity among you. All will become one. Where there is unity, there will be purity. Where there is purity, there Divinity will be. Hence, if you wish to attain Divinity, you must develop unity. And, for achieving unity, people should shed their narrow-mindedness. This is a handkerchief. It is made up of several threads. If you remove one thread after the other, finally there will be no handkerchief at all! The cloth is made up of threads and they in turn are made out of cotton. Similarly, there can be no humanness without human beings. The humanness must be gradually transformed into Divinity. A divine person will have divine power. In fact, you all possess divine power. There is not a single human being without divine power. But, no one is aware of his innate divine power.

People ask Me very often a question: “Swami, how can we achieve unity?” In fact, unity is the very nature of humanity. Forgetting this truth, people go on arguing, “He is different from me, I am different from him”, etc. Divinity can never be attained by such arguments. Always think that you and others are only one. You say, “So and so is my father; so and so is my mother; so and so is my sister.” These are not real relationships. Father, mother, sister, etc., are only relationships at the body level. It is only out of marriage, the husband-wife relationship has arisen. Otherwise, who is a husband and who is a wife? These are all man-made relationships. However, as long as the relationship exists one should respect that relationship and follow it. The husband and wife should never hurt each other. If either of them commits a mistake, it should be gently brought to the individual’s notice for rectification. Harassing, abusing and physical violence are bad practices. They should never be resorted to. If all of you live in unity and constantly contemplate on God, you will achieve purity. Then, Swami will surely give you Darshan right where you are (applause). I belong to you all (applause). You all belong to Me. I do not differentiate between individuals. All are mine and I belong to all. There may be differences in certain aspects among people, from the worldly angle. But, there should not be any difference at the spiritual level.

Always Adhere To Truth

Dear boys, you have come here with great love for Swami. May your hearts be filled with love up to the brim. Always speak truth. You may encounter certain difficulties in speaking truth. Does not matter, adhere to truth. Then you will surely achieve success. We should never be afraid of speaking the truth. We should even be prepared to fight for truth. Truth alone triumphs (Sathyameva Jayate). Hence, always speak truth. Untruth will fetch you bad reputation. Adhere to truth under all circumstances. Cultivate love. Truth is love and love is truth. If you are guided by these two like the two eyes, you will always succeed in life. There is no use worshipping God repeating the word bhakti (devotion) as an empty rhetoric. You may be very intelligent. You might have also acquired vast knowledge. However, if you do not develop a sense of discrimination, all your intelligence and knowledge will be reduced to zero. Hence, discrimination is of utmost importance. You analyse whether your point of view is right or wrong. If you are convinced that your point is right, stick to it till the end. The world today is in a state of utter confusion and chaos. Wherever you see, there is endless strife. The world today is filled with selfishness and self-interest. As long as these two take predominance, it will only lead to defeat. You are all students of Sri Sathya Sai College. You should therefore live up to the ideals of the Sathya Sai Educational Institutions. If people praise that so and so is a good boy, he is a student of Sri Sathya Sai College, I will be very happy. You all must earn that good name. It gives Me great happiness (applause). There is nothing greater that I can wish for. I am not asking this for My sake. You should earn a good name for your own sake. Bangaru! (dear golden ones!) conduct yourselves accordingly. Wherever you are, do not forget to contemplate on the divine name of God. You may contemplate upon any name like Rama, Krishna, Govinda, Narayana, Madhusudana, Trivikrama, etc. Though the names are different, God is only one. He is Sahasra seersha Purusha sahasraksha sahasra pad (the Cosmic Being has thousands of heads, eyes and feet). Adhere to truth and love always.

(Bhagawan continued his discourse after singing the bhajan “Hari Bhajana Bina …”)

The joy we derive by singing bhajans cannot be attained by any other means. There is so much joy in singing bhajans and extolling the glory of God. I can also sing bhajans melodiously. But, at the moment I have a very bad throat. Bhajans give great joy. Even if others do not share this joy, you sing bhajans for your own joy. I am very happy. (Addressing the old students) When do you propose to leave for your places? Wherever you go, Swami’s grace is with you in abundance. I will distribute prasadam to you all tomorrow. May you all return to your places with joyous memories of this divine congregation.

New Year Message, Prasanthi Nilayam, 1-1-2008.

All Are One; Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One; Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One; Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One; Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One; Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One; Be Alike To Everyone

Strive for the happiness of the community and of the human race. Pray that all men everywhere may have peace and plenty. Be eager to do good and be good…Moderation in food, moderation in talk, and in desires and pursuits; contentment with what little can be got by honest labour, eagerness to serve others and to impart joy to all these are the most powerful of all the tonics and health-preserves known to the science of health, the Sanathana Ayur Veda, the Veda of the full life.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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Revere Your Mother And Father As God

Emperor Nala, who reigned over a vast kingdom, could not take with him anything when he passed away. Did King Mandhata, who adorned the Krita Yuga, carry any wealth with him when he left the earth? Even Lord Rama, who built a bridge across the ocean, is not to be seen on the earth today. Many kings have ruled over the earth, but none of them could carry even a fistful of dust with him. Oh noble one! do you think you can carry the kingdom and its riches on your head when you leave the world?

(Telugu poem)

MAN has not brought anything into this world
at the time of his birth. Property, wealth, bank balance, etc., are all acquired in the middle, during the course of his life’s journey from birth to death. He cannot take these along with him while departing from this world. Then why should man worry over losing them in between?

Never Forget God Who Is Supreme

You are not born for shedding tears. Hence you should also leave this world happily. Why should you have to worry about the ephemeral things like wealth and property which are physical, fleeting and impermanent? Such an attitude is unbecoming of a human being. These are all gifts from God. There are four concepts which you must always keep in mind - the Vyasti (the individual), Samasti (society), Sristi (creation) and Paramesti (God). The Sristi (creation) emerged out of Paramesti (God). From Sristi came Samasti and Samasti itself consists of Vyasti (individuals). Without Vyasti (individual) there can be no Samasti (society). Hence, ultimately these are all God’s gift. Are we making any efforts to shed tears for the sake of God? No. we are worried about passing clouds, which are ephemeral. This is not the true nature of a human being.

You might have noticed that when thick clouds gather in the sky, the sun or the moon is obscured by them. It should not bother you. Just wait for a few minutes. The dark clouds move away and the sun and the moon are back shining brightly. What is required is a little patience.

Forbearance is the real beauty in this sacred land of Bharat. Of all the rituals, adherence to truth is the greatest penance. The nectarous feeling in this country is the feeling of love towards one’s mother. Character is valued far higher than the very life itself. People have forgotten the basic principles of this great culture and are imitating Western culture. Alas! The Bharatiyas are not aware of the greatness of their cultural heritage just as a mighty elephant is not aware of its own strength.

(Telugu poem)

The power that a human being possesses is unparalleled. The human being is most powerful. That is the reason why even God incarnates in the form of a human being (applause). It is said Daivam manusha rupena (God is in the form of a human being). A human being is the crown of God’s creation. And, God is supreme. It is a sacrilege to forget such an omnipresent, omniscient and omnipotent God. We must constantly contemplate on God. You may be engaged in a variety of tasks. But, you should never forget God, who is changeless and eternal. That should be your true nature. Your true nature should always remain the same.

The root cause for all the troubles we face is we forget God and hanker after illusory worldly things. Happiness or sorrow is all our own making. God is always blissful. He always gives us happiness, joy and bliss. We, out of our illusion misinterpret God’s gifts as difficulties and feel sorry for the same. Your own feelings are responsible for your suffering. Hence, change your feelings, develop a positive attitude and you will never experience pain and suffering.

Today, you all have come here wearing white shirts and black blazers. Our Anil Kumar thought, “When our boys are wearing black coloured blazers, why not I?” He also wore a black coat and attended this function. This is imitation. In fact, the whole world is full of imitation. Such imitation is not a good sign. It may give you a momentary pleasure only.

There were kings and emperors in the past who ruled the world, but all of them left this world empty-handed. They could not take even a blade of grass along with them. No doubt we can enjoy good things as long as we live in this world. Thereafter, we cease to have any relationship with them. All the worldly relationships are of our own making only. We should not maintain such artificial relationships. As long as you live, be happy and enjoy your life. But, your joy should not be like the one you derive when you eat an ice-cream, which melts away in a short time. Real joy springs forth from your heart. That is bliss. You should experience that bliss continuously.

The body is made up of five elements. It is bound to fall. We as human beings feel happy when a child is born and feel sad when someone dear to us dies. You should never give scope for sorrow. You may encounter any number of sorrows and difficulties. But, you should face them with courage and faith in God, thinking, “I am a part of Divinity; I will not therefore feel sorry or shed tears.” Lord Krishna declared in the Bhagavad Gita :

“Sreyohi Jnanamabhyasath

Jnanaddhyanam Visishayathe

Dhyanath Karmaphala Tyagah

Tyagah Santiranantaram”

(Better indeed is knowledge than mechanical practice. Better still is meditation. But, better than meditation is renunciation of the desire for the fruit of karma (action). For, peace follows renunciation.)

The Divine Principle Alone Is Eternal In This Fleeting World

As long as one develops a desire for the fruit of one’s actions, one will not have peace of mind. You take the case of an individual. Before marriage, he was one and only one. After marriage he becomes two. The couple begets a child after one year. In the beginning, he has only two legs; after marriage, they have four; after the child is born they multiply into six legs. Thus, as the family grows, the number of legs also grows and they will end up in sorrow. It is not of God’s making. It is the result of one’s mental weakness.

You participated in the Annual sports meet and performed various feats. You derived joy out of it. Pleasure or pain, everything is the result of your own actions. Nothing is permanent in this world. All are fleeting. One need not be elated or depressed for anything. Whatever is born today is bound to die at sometime or the other. No one knows for sure what happens to us the next moment. You are an embodiment of Divinity. The Divine Principle in you is eternal. That lives today, tomorrow and the day after tomorrow. Hence, you should treat the past, present and future as one though our experiences in the three phases of time are different. You should not give much credence to these experiences. Past is past; it will not come back. We are not sure of future. Present is the only reality with which we should be concerned. This is not ordinary present, but omnipresent because the past as well as future are present in it.

Dear Students!

All your experiences in this changing world are only momentary and unreal. They are like passing clouds. You need not be too much worried about them. You are marching forward. Continue your life’s journey with steadfast faith in God. Why should you have to look back and brood over the past? Some people worry for everything, not only about their education but in life too. They are worried about some individuals who are no longer living. Whoever is born has to depart from this world at some time or the other. God is the only one present at all times - past, present and future, since He is omnipresent. He may assume different forms and names at different times in keeping with the aspirations and imagination of the devotees. Keep aside your imaginations and God can be perceived as one and only one Divine principle at all times.

A few days ago, people celebrated the New Year all over the world. From where did this New Year come? It has not suddenly descended from heavens. There can be no ‘new’ without ‘old’. The old transforms itself into new and the new becomes old after sometime. Thus, old and new are like the object and its reflection. Hence, you should not attach much importance to these variations in time. Constantly contemplate on the timeless principle, that is Divinity. If at all you are worried about some sorrows and difficulties troubling you, keep them aside. Some boys are worried about their examinations, which is totally unnecessary. You must face the examinations boldly and write the answers confidently to the extent of your preparation. God will take care of the rest. It is the courage and confidence that will fetch the desired result. This courage is also termed as ‘pushti’ (strength).

There are six evil qualities which form part of the human psyche - Kama (desire), Krodha (anger), Lobha (greed), Moha (delusion), Mada (pride), Matsarya (jealously). The same qualities reflect in the outside world. Hence, keep your inner consciousness clean. Then, you can win over the outside world in all areas.

Embodiments of Love! Dear students!

You are acquiring degrees in several branches of knowledge. But, of what use are they?

Modern education leads only to argumentation, not to total wisdom. What is the use of acquiring education which cannot lead you to immortality? Acquire the knowledge that will make you immortal.

(Telugu poem)

Develop Sense Control

What is the use of acquiring so many degrees without realising one’s own nature? The education that we pursue must ultimately bring some benefit to the society. You should pursue such type of education. Share your knowledge with others. Then only your outlook will be broadened. The very purpose of your humanness will be fulfilled. Vyasti (individual) is only one. When another individual joins him, it becomes Samasti (society).

Develop the power of senses by developing control over your senses. It is only by sense control that a human being can be called a Vyakti. Unfortunately, today we do not at all find sense control anywhere. The senses are allowed to run amuck in the outside world. The senses are created by God for making proper use of them by a human being by exercising proper control over them. It is not for indiscriminate ‘enjoyment’ of God’s creation. The birds, insects and animals are, however doing the same. Even ants are raising families and sustaining them. You need not have to follow their example. You are a human being.

Whoever has created you, will also provide for your sustenance. You need not worry about your food and other needs. You may earn five thousand dollars a month abroad. No doubt it is a big money when converted into Indian rupees. But, compare the cost of living in India and abroad. The five thousand dollars you earn in foreign countries is equivalent to five hundred rupees in India. This much amount is sufficient here. Several people go abroad with great hopes. But, what is there abroad? That broadness lies in your heart. You need not go abroad. Develop broad-mindedness. Remain here. Take good care of your parents, wife and children. Make your children acquainted with Indian culture and spirituality. That is true education. Does education mean reading and writing? Can you call all those who have learnt to read and write educated people? No, not at all. Knowledge without discrimination and not beneficial to the society - can it be called education? Education that does not develop discrimination is totally void. Real education is that which comes from within, that is Educare. What all the teachers teach is only that which is contained in the books. Real education is not available in the books.

Hence, dear students, don’t waste your time reading books and acquiring merely bookish knowledge. You read throughout the night, without sleeping. Thereby your health is spoiled. Hence, you have to read only those books which are necessary for your purpose, not all the trash you find in the bazaar. People read several books, cinema magazines and newspapers which are in no way useful to them. When you open a newspaper, it is full of advertisements and cinema pictures. There is nothing you can learn from them. You follow your conscience which guides you. If you follow your conscience you are worthy of being called a human being. You don’t become a human being simply because you have certain limbs like hands, legs, eyes, ears, nose, etc. Even small insects have them. Can you equate yourself to them? Certainly not. You must lead the life of a real human being and set an example to others. You must be an example in true culture.

Humanity Is Your Caste

There is a subtle difference between caste and culture. You belong to the caste of humanity, for, there is only one caste - the caste of humanity. It is an inborn gift from your parents. On the other hand, the culture is something that is adopted in your life. Culture teaches you what is to be done and how. It is based upon certain traditions. None can change your caste which is humanity. Based upon your inborn caste of humanity, you can follow a culture. Another important point to be noted in this context is that caste and culture devoid of discrimination are not only useless, but harmful too. Your knowledge and sharp intellect are not that important. Discrimination is of utmost importance. You must be able to choose that which is useful and necessary for you. You have to switch on a light when you are in darkness. It is not proper to switch on a light when there is already light in the room.

Dear Students!

It is not knowledge or energy that you have to develop, but the power of discrimination. Whatever object you come across, first enquire with in yourself: “Is it good or bad, is it useful to me or not?” Before you take up a particular work, think carefully whether it is worth or not. Being a human being, develop the quality of humanness. Do not at all cause pain to your parents who are responsible for your birth. The Vedas emphasise the need for showing utmost reverence to the parents by declaring, “Matru devo bhava, Pitru devo bhava, (revere your mother and father as God). Children today do not care for their parents. They consider wife, the ‘artificial doll’, as the central point of their life. They follow the dictates of the wife, ignoring the parents who gave birth to them and nourished and nurtured them all through undergoing several difficulties. You may love your wife; nothing wrong in that. But, you should obey your parents too. Parents deserve your utmost concern. All others come after the parents. First and foremost, you love your mother and follow her commands. It is only when you make her happy that your life too will be happy. If she sheds tears for any reason, you will have to suffer for your entire life time. There are very few people today who have recognised the value of a mother’s love. If the mother were to say something they try to snub her saying, “Keep quiet; I know everything.” Yet others bluntly tell her, “Shut up. You need not advise me. I am highly educated. I have taken a number of degrees. Do I not know?” You may have taken degrees in the academic field. But, did you acquire a degree in general knowledge useful for leading a balanced life? Only the parents can teach that knowledge. One has to serve his father and mother and make them happy, apart from acquiring high degrees. Then only can one lead a happy and peaceful life. These are the things one has to learn and carefully follow in life.

Dear Students!

Do not underestimate the importance of singing the glory of the Divine name. Hari Bhajana Bina Sukha Santi Nahi….. Participate in bhajans which bring a lot of peace and confer bliss on you. Bhajan is a group activity where a number of people come together (Samasti) and sing the glory of God. One important point in Bhajans is that everyone should join in singing the bhajans. There would be a lead singer and all others follow him. If you are not confident of your voice at least repeat the Divine name in your heart. Unfortunately, today people have no time even for that. You may forget any item of work in your daily life. But, you should never forget Namasmarana and Nama Sankirtana. The Divine name is eternal. Hence, constantly contemplate on the Divine name.

Sankranti, 15-1-2008,

Prasanthi Nilayam.

Revere Your Mother And Father As God

Revere Your Mother And Father As God

Revere Your Mother And Father As God

Revere Your Mother And Father As God

Revere Your Mother And Father As God

Revere Your Mother And Father As God

3

Understand The Principle Of Unity

People undergo a lot of difficulties and struggle day and night for the sake of money. They even stealthily resort to unfair means to earn money. Their ego and mental aberrations add to their sufferings. So long as the world is in such a bad condition, man cannot escape from sufferings. He can attain peace and prosperity only when he is true to his word and his mind is full of sweetness. One cannot have the vision of God with a disturbed or wavering mind.

(Telugu poem)

Embodiments of Love!

Today the entire world revolves round money.
Right from a student to a vegetable vendor, everyone runs after money. One cannot definitely say that this man has more craving for money or that man. But everyone considers money as the be-all and end-all of life. People undergo all sorts of difficulties for the sake of money, but there is none who undergoes difficulties for the sake of God. God protects all. One may have any amount of money, but life without God is no life at all. However, such people are very few in number who give highest importance to God in their life. There are fewer still who contemplate on God.

God Is Present In Everyone In The Form Of Love

That is why we have started Bhajans. There may be a few who take to wrong path even after joining Bhajans. But, by and large, people will contemplate on God when they sing His glory. There may be many types of waves in the ocean, but water in all of them is the same. Similarly, people may have different types of thought currents but the same God is present in all of them. Beings are many but the atmic principle in all of them is the same. Ekatma sarva bhutantaratma (one atma dwells in all beings). Ekam Sat viprah bahudha vadanti (truth is one, but the wise refer to it by various names). Those who adhere to this truth are in fact real devotees. The essence of all the Vedas lies in establishing this truth. But such people who understand this truth are not to be seen today. Never forsake truth. When truth and righteousness come together one can experience peace and love. Truth is the basis of everything. Sathyameva adviteeyam Brahma (Truth is Brahman which is one without a second). Truth embodies the form of love.

Embodiments of Love!

Love does not come from somewhere outside. It is immanent in the heart of everyone. Man cannot live without love. This love assumes many forms, such as, love between husband and wife, mother and child, and between friends. In spite of its different forms, love is the same. If someone asks you where is God, you can say that God is present in the heart of everyone in the form of love. This love signifies the principle of oneness. The life that is led by observing the principle of love is true life. Without the principle of love it is no life at all. All other values are contained in love.

Here is a small example. A few days ago, Shourie left his mortal coil. Many people joined his funeral procession. When his body was cremated, the five elements of his body merged with their source - earth merged with earth, fire with fire, air with air, so on and so forth. What remained in the end? Just a heap of ash! But the atmic principle in him followed its divine course.

Everything is immanent in Brahman. Brahman is one without a second. Therefore, if someone asks you what is your name, you should reply, “Aham Brahmasmi (I am Brahman); I have no other name.” People call God by many names, such as, Rama, Krishna, Govinda Narayana, but Brahman is one. Brahma sathyam jagan-mithya (Brahman alone is real, the world is unreal). People give many names to God. Names are given according to the liking of individuals. Mother gives some names to her children and calls them by those names. In the same way, we call people by various names in this world. But God has only one name and that is Brahman. One who understands the principle of Brahman becomes Brahman himself. All the names of God such as Rama, Krishna, Govinda Narayana refer only to Brahman. Hence, we should not attach too much importance to names. Sathya, Dharma, Santi, and Prema are divine principles. When we adhere to these divine principles, we can attain the proximity of God. Contemplate on any name of Brahman, with the feeling that He is present in all. You may identify others by any name, but Brahman is present in all of them since He is omnipresent. Wherever we see, we find only Brahman. Brahman is the only reality. Therefore, we should always contemplate on Brahman. Everyone should chant “Namah Sivaya, … Namah Sivaya, … Namah Sivaya.” The principle of Brahman is present in this sacred Panchakshari mantra.

I have been seeing both Easwaramma and Pedda Venkama Raju for the last one month. They also appeared before Me when I was coming to Sai Kulwant Hall. Even Satyajit who sleeps in My room has seen them. Both of them were wearing yellow dress. Yellow colour represents the principle of Brahman. Today I wanted to bring out an yellow colour Linga. But as I was coming to the Hall, all the students, devotees and residents of the Ashram prayed to Me, “Swami, You need not bring out Linga because we cannot bear the suffering that You undergo. We want to see only Your blissful form.”

My heart is totally pure. Whatever I will must happen. The heart of the worldly people is always unsteady. But Sai’s heart is steady and changeless. How can there be any change in the principle of truth? Nobody can understand this eternal principle of truth. Once there was a yogi who mastered the Vedas and other scriptures after putting in a lot of hard work. When he was asked what he had learnt, he told that he had mastered all the Vedas, Puranas (mythological texts) and other scriptures. However, what is that from which all these scriptures originate? All these have originated from the Word. What is the form of the primordial Word? It is Pranava or Om. God is embodied in sound. All other forms of energy emanate from it. In the same way, the sound of Siva’s Damaruka when He performs His cosmic dance contains the sound of all the musical instruments. There is a song which describes the cosmic dance of Siva. The form assumed by Siva while performing the cosmic dance is possible only for divinity and none else. We should never forget such a divine form.

Lord Siva is lost in ecstasy

Parameswara, Sambasiva is lost in ecstasy,

Dancing and dancing the Tandava dance

With Sage Narada accompanying on Tanpura and

The Lord’s matted locks are shining brilliantly.

Wielding the Trident, Siva is dancing

Tadhim, Tadhim, Tadhim Tadhimtaka.

Lord Siva ...

With Goddess Saraswati playing Veena and Indra, the flute, Lord Vishnu on Mridanga,

Dhimi Dhimi Dhimi Dhimitaka.

Lord Siva ...

With Ganga coursing through his matted locks,

And the third eye flashing on his forehead,

As the crystal rosary sparkled and glinted,

Siva danced the Tandava.

(Telugu song)

Man Should Remember His Divine Parents

The cosmic dance of Parvati and Easwara is most enchanting. None other is capable of performing it. Parvati and Easwara are the divine parents of all the people of the world. We will be free from all suffering when we constantly remember them. But today nobody remembers them. How can then people have protection?

Once when Siva and Parvati were moving about in the sky, they saw a person cutting the branch of a tree on which he was sitting. As he was on the verge of falling, Parvati prayed to Siva to save him, “Oh Lord, please save him when he falls on the ground.” But Siva said to Parvati, “It is you who saw him first. It is you again who realised that he would die when he falls down. So, it is your responsibility to save him.” Then Parvati submitted, “Dear Lord, when someone falls on the ground, he will either utter ‘Amma’ (mother) or ‘Appa’ (father). If this man utters ‘Amma’, then I will save him, but if he utters ‘Appa’, you should save him.” Easwara agreed to this proposal. As the branch broke, both Siva and Parvati came forward to save him. But while falling, this man did not utter either ‘Amma’ or ‘Appa’; he uttered ‘Ayyo’ (alas). Though both Siva and Parvati were waiting to save him, he did not call them. The moral of the story is that we should always remember our parents. One who does not remember his parents even in times of difficulty is really a fool. Lord Easwara and Mother Parvati are universal parents. If one constantly remembers them, one will not encounter any difficulty or suffering. Unfortunately, today people do not remember their parents. That is the reason why they lack protection.

When our end approaches, we should remember either our divine mother or divine father. Those who remember their divine parents are really blessed ones. What to talk of our divine mother and divine father, people today do not remember even their own parents. Why should one remember one’s mother? It is the mother who carries you in her womb for nine months and gives birth to you. She brings you up bearing all difficulties. He is a fool who does not remember his mother with gratitude. Similarly, your father bears all types of difficulties to provide education to you and brings you up in life. Is it possible for you to progress in life without going to a preceptor and acquiring education? Hence, everyone should always remember his parents. You may or may not remember anybody else, but you must remember your parents.

Message Of Sivaratri

Easwaramma is the mother of this body. The meaning of the word ‘Easwaramma’ is ‘mother of Easwara (God)’. In the history of Divinity, Mother Easwaramma exemplifies Divine Motherhood. Not only this. Pedda Venkama Raju, the father of this body, signifies the lord of seven hills. Now both of them are residing in Vaikunta (heaven). Swami is the incarnation of both Parvati and Easwara. In the triune Sai Avatars, the first one was Shirdi Sai, the second is Parthi Sai and the third will be Prema Sai. Prema Sai will bring about complete unity of mankind. Love is the unifying force in the world. Now we do not find any unity in the world. There are differences and differences all along everywhere. There will be complete unity only when love manifests in the heart of man. Then all will become one. There will be unity of caste, culture and country. When somebody asks you, where you have come from, you should not say that you have come from Mysore (Karnataka) or Andhra Pradesh or Tamil Nadu. You should say that you have come from Bharat. You should proudly proclaim, “Bharat is my country.” In fact, Bharat is the home of everyone. When I visited East Africa, Idi Amin asked Me where I had come from. I did not say that I had come from Karnataka or Andhra Pradesh. I told him, “I have come from Bharat.” If everybody develops such feelings of allegiance to his country, then the whole country will prosper. Very soon, the whole of India will be united and all the differences will disappear. It is necessary that there is unity of caste, culture and country. When there is unity between these three, then all of us will become united and live like brothers and sisters. The history of Bharat exemplifies this spirit of oneness.

In the story of the Ramayana, both Kausalya and Kaikeyi shared their pudding of the Yajna with Sumitra when the bowl containing her share of pudding was taken away by an eagle. While Kausalya gave birth to Rama and Kaikeyi to Bharata, Sumitra gave birth to Lakshmana and Satrughna, both of whom served their elder brothers Rama and Bharata respectively. Thus, all the three wives of Dasaratha and his four sons set highest ideals of unity and love in the world. In keeping with the noble traditions set by the Ramayana, we should always maintain unity, morality and spirituality. The name Sumitra itself signifies that she was a good friend to one and all, and a paragon of all virtues. Similarly, Sita’s other name, Vaidehi, signifies that she was the daughter of Videha (one who transcended body consciousness). The Ramayana, the Mahabharata, the Bhagavata and other scriptures contain names which signify great qualities of persons bearing those names. In the same way, God is called by different names, all of which have deep inner meaning. The name of this body is Sathya Sai. But this has a deep inner meaning and it signifies one who reclines on truth (Sathya Sayee).

We should all become united. People may speak different languages and pursue different disciplines of education, but all should follow the principle of one country, one caste and one culture. The present differences have arisen because people are divided on the basis of caste, language and culture. The message of Sivaratri is that Bharat should achieve the objective of unity of the entire country.

Embodiments of Love!

Wherever you may go, you should say with a sense of pride that you belong to India that you follow Indian culture and speak its language. It would be very nice if you understand the principle of unity, develop faith in it and lead your life accordingly. There should be unity of caste, culture and country. Only then can our country achieve desired progress. The name ‘Bharat’ contains two syllables ‘Bha’ and ‘rat’. ‘Bha’ signifies God and ‘rat’ stands for love. Hence, Bharat is that country where people have love for God. You should understand this truth and treasure it in your heart. (Bhagawan sang the Bhajan “Hari Bhajan Bina ...”) Whoever wishes to have Santi (peace) must participate in Bhajan. Bhajan alone can confer true peace on us.

Sivaratri, 6-3-2008,

Prasanthi Nilayam.

Understand The Principle Of Unity

Understand The Principle Of Unity

Understand The Principle Of Unity

Understand The Principle Of Unity

4

Redeem Your Life By Good Actions

Man is born out of Karma,

He lives and dies in Karma.

Karma is verily God,

And it is responsible for man’s

Happiness and sorrow.

(Telugu poem)

KARMA is verily the life of man. Whatever
actions man undertakes to perform from morning to evening, he should first understand and then perform. This is the primary duty of man. The nature of the action that you perform determines the type of result you get. When man performs good deeds, he will have good results. On the other hand, when he performs actions with evil intention, the results are bound to be bad.

Man Should Behave Like A Human Being

Bats fly in the sky like all other birds which perch on the branches of trees to take rest. However, unlike other birds, bats hang from the branches with their head down and feet up. Has anybody tied them in this manner with a thread? Or, has someone forcibly put their heads down? No. It is the result of their Karma. In the same way, if man harbours evil thoughts and performs evil actions, he is bound to get evil results. However, if he performs good actions, he will get good results in accordance with the nature of his actions. When we look at them, even bats appear to be like other birds. But, they have a different fate unlike other birds, which fly freely.

We cannot escape from the consequences of our actions. But we perform bad deeds and expect good results. There is none who desires bad results after performing good actions. However, every action has a result in accordance with its nature. When you write correct answers to the questions put by your teacher in the examination, you get good marks. But if you commit mistakes your marks will be deducted. In the same way, one who is born as a human being should perform actions after enquiring what is good and what is bad. To perform good actions is the primary duty of man. To perform bad deeds is the attribute of an animal. You should always remind yourself that you are a human being and that you should perform only such actions which behove a human being. You should ask yourself before performing any action, “Am I behaving like a human being or an animal?” We should perform actions after examining them in a proper way. A human being should perform actions which befit his human birth. If you act contrary to human nature, even your neighbour will chide you, saying, “Having been born as a human being, you are behaving like an animal.” In this manner, man will be punished by his fellow human beings if he behaves like an animal. Therefore, man should conduct himself like a true human being. It is a disgrace to humanness if man behaves like an animal. Man must conduct himself in a manner which is appropriate for a human being. The result of good actions will be good and bad actions will be bad.

Do Not Forget Your Humanness

There is no need for God to punish you for the bad actions performed by you. Your own bad actions will give you the punishment. It is not possible to get good result out of a bad action and vice versa. We should understand the truth that we are born as human beings only to perform good deeds. The word ‘Manava’ (man) consists of three syllables Ma, na, va. Ma means ignorance, na means without, va means to conduct. A human being is one who conducts himself without ignorance. One who is born as a human being must conduct oneself like a human being and speak sweetly and softly. Among the birds also. there are many categories. Some of them sing sweetly and give happiness to all. But there are others like crow which are disliked by people and are driven away when they start cawing. One feels like listening to the song of a cuckoo for any length of time. Similarly, the type of treatment that we receive from others is in accordance with our speech and behaviour. We are born to do only good deeds. A human being should always help his fellow human beings. Help Ever, Hurt Never. We should not hurt anybody. Sometimes, we hurt others knowingly. This is a greater mistake. God has given mind, intellect and chitta (mind stuff) to man to use them in a proper way. It is for this reason that the Vedanta declares Manah eva manushyanam karanam bandhamokshayo (mind is the cause of bondage and liberation of man). The mind that has been gifted by God to man should be put on the right path. It is not the real nature of a human being to criticise others, to make fun of them or to hurt them. Man should be devoid of all such evils. When even animals are doing service to man, there is nothing great if man helps his fellowmen. Having been born as human beings we should love our fellow human beings like our brothers and sisters. That is the hallmark of a true human being.

First and foremost, man should obey the command of God. The same divine principle is present in all human beings. Daivam manusha rupena (God is in the form of a human being). Man should implicitly follow the command of God who incarnates as a human being. You should listen to the command of God and not of your friends who may be very close to you. We are born as human beings. Our appearance is also like a human being. So, we have to conduct ourselves like a human being. Never harm anybody by your thoughts, words or deeds. Conduct yourself as a human being and uphold your humanness. Whatever caste or culture you may belong to, you should acquire goodness in accordance with that. Since you are born among human beings, live among human beings, you should follow humanness. Only then will your life as a human being become worthwhile. If you forget your humanness, there is no use in performing any amount of Japa, Tapa, Yoga and Yajna (recitation, penance, spirituality and sacrifice). Whatever spiritual practice you may undertake, you can be called a human being only when you uphold humanness.

First Achieve The Unity Of Thought, Word And Deed

You should perform only such actions which will please God. Then only does your life as a human being become meaningful. Jantunam nara janma durlabham (of all living beings, human birth is the rarest). You should not waste such a precious and rare human birth. You will lose your humanness completely if you indulge in falsehood, injustice and unrighteousness. Therefore, you should have good thoughts, good speech and good vision. See Good, Do Good, Be Good. This is the inner meaning of human life. There are people who may appear to be good and smiling but their mind is filled with evil intentions. This is not good. Manasyekam vachasyekam, karmanyekam mahatmanam; Manasyanyat vachasyanyat, karmanyanyat duratmanam (Those whose thoughts, words and deeds are in perfect harmony are noble ones; those who lack harmony of these are wicked). One should have unity of thought, word and deed. If you have unity, then you will attain purity and purity will lead you to divinity. Therefore, one should have purity in order to attain divinity. Saying one thing and doing something other than that is not good. This is no unity at all. How can you have purity when you are devoid of unity? Therefore, if you want to have purity, you must have unity. Suppose somebody criticises you, you should think that this also is for your good. Whatever others may do, think that it is all for your own good. Perform all actions with the aim of redeeming your life. You should see to it that you do not lose your humanness. You may lose any property, but do not lose the property of humanness. Lead your life always smilingly and blissfully. But laughing unnecessarily is also not good. You should perform all actions with good intentions. When you perform good actions, your thoughts will also be good. When your mind is filled with good thoughts, all your bad thoughts will disappear. Therefore, you should always develop only good thoughts. This will lead to good health. We should love everyone. Love All, Serve All. If you adhere to these principles, you will always have good health.

It is necessary for man to be healthy. Health is not limited only to physical body, it includes mental well-being also. Never eat improper food. Eat only those food items which are good and sacred and have been sanctified by offering to God. Do not offer improper food to God. Offer only sacred and satwic (pure) food to God in clean utensils. You get the result in accordance with the offering that you make. As are the actions, so will be the result. It is not possible to get good results by performing bad actions. Therefore, we should perform good actions and experience good fruits. Then only can we have good health. If we eat good food, we will have good thoughts. But people today say one thing and do something else.

Once a sanyasi came to a house and begged for food. The housewife said to him, “My dear son, go to the river and have your bath. Meanwhile, I will prepare food for you.” This sanyasi was an epitome of laziness. He said to her, “Mother, for sanyasis like us, Govindeti sada snanam (reciting the name of Govinda is like having a bath).” Then the intelligent housewife gave him a befitting reply, saying, “Govindeti sada bhojanam (reciting the name of Govinda is like having food). Hence, you may go.” It is meaningless to say, Govindeti sada snanam to justify our laziness and not to have a bath. When you say that reciting the name of Govinda is like having a bath, you should also accept that the recitation of His name amounts to having food. We should observe propriety in our life.

Understand The Importance Of Good Company

Sometimes, you may get bad thoughts. You should immediately change them into good thoughts. For this, good company is necessary. “Tell me your company, I shall tell you what you are,” it is said. When you join good company, you become good. On the other hand, when you are in bad company, you become bad. Hence, always have good company. How can anybody accept you as a good person when you indulge in smoking, drinking and meat eating? If you want to be good, perform only good deeds.Whatever is the type of action you perform, you will get the result according to that.

Human life is most sacred. It is attained as a result of merits earned in many previous births. Thousands of people have gathered here. For what? Only for God. Many people gather at places like liquor shops also. But there you cannot have good thoughts. Therefore, we should always have good company.

We should join good company and develop good feelings. Do not have jealousy, anger and ego. Not only that. You should have gratitude for every good thing done to you by others. Gratitude is very important. One with a sense of gratitude will reap its good fruits wherever he may be. There are some people who betray even those who have done good to them. This is not good. We should be grateful even for a little good done to us. Your life will be a mere waste if you lack gratitude. Develop good qualities. Wherever you may go, you should conduct yourself with good feelings and serve everyone. Even if you come across your enemy, you should offer your greetings to him. Then he will also reciprocate in the same manner. On the other hand, if you talk to him with disrespect, he will also show disrespect to you. Our entire life is reaction, reflection and resound. If you want to achieve good results, you should lead a good life. If you work hard and study well, you will secure first rank. But if you do not study well, how can you get good marks? If you do not study well and yet get good marks, people may doubt that you have copied in the examination. Your conscience is your witness that you got good marks because you had written your examination well. Hence, do good and experience goodness. Only then will your life as a human being become meaningful. Live your life as a human being.

You need not pray to God for protection. Your goodness will protect you. Your goodness is your true support in life. Manasuku manasu sakshi (mind is the witness of mind). We do not need any other witness. Lawyers say, “witness, witness, witness”. But what sort of witness? Not always a true witness. Our true witness is only our mind. Whether it is for earning money or for developing virtues, we should act in a righteous manner. We should do only such acts which are acceptable to our conscience. Self-satisfaction is very important. We can perform self-sacrifice only when we have self-satisfaction. Students! right from this age, you should develop good feelings. That is true education. There is no use reading big books without developing good feelings. There are many students who appear to be studying all the time. But nobody knows what they are really studying. You should study something only after knowing that it is good for you. You should not read those books which teach you to go on paths contrary to humanness.

Perform All Actions To Please God

You are all students. Hence, your only objective should be to acquire education. But what sort of education? Atma Vidya (education of the Self). You should study for self-satisfaction. Some students study day and night. But nobody knows what they are studying. They have big big books and in those big books they keep trash books and read them. Their parents feel happy thinking, “Our child is reading the Mahabharata!” You should not resort to such evil practices. When you act in this manner, you will lose respect in society. Not only that, your life itself will be ruined.

First and foremost, students must control their anger. Thereafter, they should develop forbearance. Not merely that, they should always be peaceful. Only when you are peaceful can you understand the real meaning of what you are studying. At this age, students have a sacred heart. Offer your pure heart to God. You may not be able to please everybody in this world, but you can please God. If you return the money given to you by someone, he will be satisfied. But you should return not only the money, but give him your love also. You should treasure that gratitude in your heart. Then only you can say that you have repaid your debt. Everybody wants happiness. But where is happiness? “Hari bhajan bina sukh Santi nahin …” (There can be no happiness and peace without chanting the name of God). That is why Guru Nanak started the practice of community singing. When many people sing the glory of God together, at least a few of them may be able to focus their mind on God and achieve self-satisfaction. Some people may be dozing during Bhajans, while the mind of some others may be wandering here and there. But at least one person’s mind will be focused on God. Hence, community bhajan singing is very good, which will fill your heart with bliss.

Yesterday was Sivaratri. Sivaratri means auspicious night; the night to develop virtues. Day and night come one after the other. But all nights are not Sivaratris. The night on which you recite the name of God is real Sivaratri. That is the night which brings auspiciousness to you. Hence, you should develop good feelings in your heart at least on Sivaratri.

Sivaratri, Prasanthi Nilayam, 7-3-2008.

Redeem Your Life By Good Actions

Redeem Your Life By Good Actions

Redeem Your Life By Good Actions

Redeem Your Life By Good Actions

Redeem Your Life By Good Actions

Students should realise the importance of service, to realise the Divine. It makes one’s life significant and purposeful.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

5

Have Self-confidence And Achieve Everything

The land, whose sons are known for name and fame across the continents,

The land whose heroes fought invaders and conquerors to achieve freedom,

That famed land whose sons of wisdom and scholarship are the praise of the globe

That land of saints, poets, singers and divine songsters,

Oh sons of Bharat, go forth and uphold your heritage and be worthy of your glorious past.

(Telugu poem)

IT is not possible to describe the greatness and
glory of the land of Bharat. There are many men of affluence as well as great leaders even today. But what is the use when they are not prepared to get rid of their greed and devote their life for the welfare of the needy. Born in this sacred land, the Bharatiyas should try to sanctify their life by serving the poor and needy.

Embodiments of Love!

Divinity exists in all in the form of consciousness.The doctor and the judge who spoke earlier, talked about Swami and His mission. But their talk was limited more to worldly matters than to spirituality. One may acquire all types of education, but, without spiritual knowledge, all this is just a waste. People today have everything, except self-confidence. In the word ‘self-confidence’, ‘self’ refers to ‘I’. What is the meaning of ‘I’? That which cannot be seen by the physical eyes, or heard by physical ears or comprehended at the physical level is ‘I’. It is divine, auspicious and all-pervasive in the form of consciousness (Chaitanya Sakti). All beings in the universe are the creation of God. There is nothing in this world which is not divine. People observe differences between one another. This is a great mistake. All are one. Ekam Sat viprah bahudha vadanti (truth is one, but the wise refer to it by various names). There is no second entity in this world. Sarvatah panipadam tat sarvathokshi siromukham, sarvatah sruthimalloke sarvamavruthya tishthati (with hands, feet, eyes, heads, mouth and ears pervading everything, He permeates the entire universe).

There is none in this world in whom God is not present. Everything is permeated by divinity. Nobody has a right to say that this is divine and that is not. God is present even in difficulties, sorrow and misery. Though we have the capacity to understand this divine power, we are, unfortunately, not able to use that. When we observe the natural scenario around us, we see vast areas of land and a number of rivers such as Yamuna, Ganga, Pinakini, Cauveri, Tungabhadra, Godavari, Saraswati, etc. In spite of having such a vast land with numerous rivers, there is scarcity of food for man. What is the reason? The reason is that he is not making proper use of his innate power and potentiality. Instead, he is misusing his powers and wasting his intelligence. If he makes efforts in the right direction, he can achieve everything.

What We Ought To Know Beyond Our Senses

You should have faith that everything that you see in this world is an aspect of divinity. There is nothing else other than this. Only One exists in this world and there is no second. We are unable to understand this truth and we suffer from many misconceptions. We are prepared to believe what others write in their books, but no one is prepared to have faith in one’s own self. People have all types of confidence except self-confidence. What is the use of having everything except self-confidence? If only we have self-confidence, we can achieve everything; there is nothing in this world which we cannot accomplish. We should make efforts to recognise this principle of Atma which is divine, auspicious and ever new. But man today does not make efforts to know himself. When we ask anyone who he is, he will tell his name given to him by his parents. If you put the same question to God, He will say Aham Brahmasmi (I am Brahman). As we are unable to recognise the truth, we take to wrong path and get confused. We do not make efforts to know what we are supposed to know. On the other hand, we try to know that which is not possible for us to know by our senses. Is it possible to know divinity which is all-pervasive? It is impossible. Hence, whatever happens, recognise it as the Will of God. All the differences are born out of our own feelings of mine and thine. In fact, there is no difference between you and Me. You and I are one (loud applause). Do not think that God exists separately in a particular place. Think that you are God. You are not the body. Body is like a water bubble. Mind is like a mad monkey. Intellect is wavering. Hence, you are neither the body nor the mind, nor the intellect. You are you. You should make proper efforts to know this truth.

The Rama Story

Tomorrow is Rama Navami. This is the day on which Sri Rama was born. There is a story about it. In Treta Yuga, King Dasaratha ruled over Ayodhya. He married Kausalya who was the daughter of the king of Kosala. After some time, she gave birth to a daughter. She was named Santa. But Dasaratha was not satisfied with the birth of a female child and wanted a male child. Therefore, he gave her to a friend who adopted her. Thereafter, he did not have any other issue. Therefore, he wanted to have another wife. As per the prevalent customs in those times, he had to seek the consent of the first wife before marrying another woman. Therefore, Dasaratha went to Kausalya and said to her, “I am thinking of marrying again.” She replied, “Certainly you may do as per your wish.” After securing the permission of Kausalya, he married Sumitra in the hope of getting a son. But she also did not bear him a child. Therefore, King Dasaratha became very worried. At that time he received the information that the king of Kekaya had a beautiful daughter by name Kaikeyi. He approached the king of Kekaya and proposed that he wanted to marry his daughter, telling him that he already had two wives. He always spoke the truth. Sathyannasti paro Dharma (There is no Dharma greater than adherence to truth). He never said anything that was untrue. He explained to the king of Kekaya everything in detail. Then the king of Kekaya said, “You already have two wives and they have not borne you any children. Now you want a third wife. I can give my daughter in marriage to you on the condition that the son born to her will be the heir to your kingdom”. Dasaratha agreed to that condition. Manthara, who was the main associate of Kaikeyi, was hearing all their conversation.

Accordingly the marriage was performed with great rejoicings. However, she also did not bear any child even after the passage of a long time. Therefore, Dasaratha decided to perform the Putrakameshti Yajna, as suggested by his well-wishers. Sage Rishyasringa, along with his wife Santa came to Ayodhya to perform the Putrakameshti Yajna.

On the eleventh day of the performance of the Yajna, an effulgent being appeared from the fire in the sacrificial altar with a vessel containing a payasam (sweet pudding). Dasaratha gave the payasam to sage Vasishta and requested him to distribute it equally among the three queens. Accordingly, Vasishta distributed the payasam to Kausalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi. Kausalya and Kaikeyi took their share of the pudding to their respective puja rooms. Each of them was happy thinking that her son would be the future king of Ayodhya. Kaikeyi thought Dasaratha would crown her son as per the promise made by him at the time of marriage. Kausalya thought, she being the first wife, her son had every right to become the king. But Sumitra had no such claims. She was a paragon of virtues. Her name ‘Su-mitra’ itself signifies that she was a good friend to one and all. She carried her bowl of pudding to the terrace and placed it on the parapet wall while drying her hair in the sun. Suddenly, an eagle swooped down and carried away the bowl and left it on the Matanga Mountain. Anjana Devi found the bowl and partook of the sacred pudding. Consequently she became pregnant and gave birth to Hanuman.

Sumitra ran down and informed Kausalya and Kaikeyi about what had happened. Kausalya and Kaikeyi came to her rescue and shared their pudding with her. Kaikeyi gave half of her share to Sumitra. Kausalya did the same. In due course, Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Kaikeyi to Bharata, and Sumitra to Lakshmana and Satrughna. Kausalya and Kaikeyi had one son each, whereas Sumitra had two sons. When we enquire into the reason, we can understand the mystery behind it. The sons of Kausalya and Kaikeyi were happily playing in their cradles whereas Sumitra’s sons were crying all the time, and were not taking milk. Sumitra was at a loss to know the reason for their crying and tried in vain various types of yantras, mantras and tantras to make them comfortable. Ultimately, she went to Sage Vasishta and told him about her predicament. Sage Vasishta closed his eyes. His yogic vision enabled him to know the truth. He said to Sumitra, “As you partook of the sacred pudding given by Kausalya, you gave birth to Lakshmana who is an Amsa (part) of Rama. Similarly, Satrughna is born out of the share of pudding given to you by Kaikeyi. So, he is a part of Bharata. Put Lakshmana by the side of Rama and Satrughna by the side of Bharata. Then they will rest peacefully.” Sumitra did as instructed by Vasishta. Both Lakshmana and Satrughna stopped crying and started playing blissfully in their cradles. This was the basis of the intimate relationship between Rama and Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna.

Since both the sons of Sumitra, namely, Lakshmana and Satrughna, were always in the company of Rama and Bharata, she had nothing much to do. Time and again she would go to Kausalya and Kaikeyi to see how her sons were playing with their elder brothers. After seeing them, she would shower her love and affection on them. In this manner all the four sons of Dasaratha grew up in an environment of love and happiness. Sumitra was very happy because she thought her son Lakshmana would serve Rama and Satrughna would serve Bharata when they grew up.

Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna grew up as young men of great valour and learning under the loving care of their parents and Guru Vasishta. When Rama and Lakshmana went to protect the Yajna of sage Viswamitra, he took them to the court of King Janaka to participate in the Swayamvara of his daughter Sita. Then Rama broke the Siva bow and won the hand of Sita. The marriage of Rama and Sita became an occasion of great rejoicing in Mithila. The people of Mithila sang joyous songs, welcoming one and all to witness the marriage of Sita and Rama.

Welcome to all for Rama’s wedding;

together we shall witness the joyous scene.

Many have gathered already,

decked up in all their finery.

With necklaces the ladies are adorned

of jewels pure and gleaming.

Rama shall tie the knot today to beauteous Sita.

Oh, what a fine match they make! (Telugu song)

The women of the kingdom came to participate in the wedding and joyfully sang blithesome songs:

Come let us go and see the marriage of Rama and Sita,

The sight shall confer great merit.

Blessed are those who see this scene.

Oh, come one and all, watch with joy the sacred marriage.

(Telugu song)

After marriage, as they were returning to Ayodhya, they heard a deafening sound. As they wondered where the sound had come from, Sage Parasurama appeared and roared, “Who is the one who broke the bow of Siva?” “It is I who has done it,” said Rama. “If that is so, let us see if You can break my bow,” saying so he gave his bow in the hands of Rama. Rama broke even that bow with His left hand. Seeing that, Parasurama offered his salutations to Rama and submitted his two kalas (splendours) to Rama, who was already endowed with twelve kalas. Rama thus shined with his own twelve kalas, two kalas from his brothers and another two given by Parasurama, that is, with all the sixteen Kalas of the Virat Purusha. With the surrender of Parasurama, Rama’s power became full and complete.

In due course of time Dasaratha realised that he was growing old and that it was time he should have crowned one of his sons as heir to his kingdom. Since Rama was the eldest of the four sons and he had all the qualities of a worthy king, he thought of crowning him as the heir to his kingdom. This news was received by the subjects of the kingdom with great joy and happiness because all of them thought that Rama was most suited to assume the reigns of the kingdom.

When Manthara heard this news, she went to Kaikeyi and reminded her of the two boons granted to her by Dasaratha. She suggested to her that she must demand from Dasaratha that Bharata be crowned as his heir to the kingdom and Rama be sent to the forest for fourteen years. Though Kaikeyi loved Rama more than Bharata, she was influenced by the evil advice of Manthara. She removed all her ornaments and lay down in great anger in her chamber. Dasaratha went to her chamber and enquired as to what the reason for her anger was. When Kaikeyi demanded the two boons granted to her by Dasaratha earlier, he was very much distressed. But as Kaikeyi persisted with her demands, he relented and agreed to make her son Bharata the crown prince of Ayodhya. But when she put forth the second demand, asking him to send Rama to the forest for 14 years, Dasaratha was crestfallen. However, Rama immediately agreed to make Bharata the heir to the kingdom and go to forest for fourteen years to uphold the promise given by his father to Kaikeyi. But when Lakshmana heard this he became very angry. In a fit of rage, he even thought of putting Kaikeyi and Manthara to death. Rama pacified him saying that it was their foremost duty to follow the command of their father and that he should not do anything that would bring disrepute to their father.

Kaikeyi wanted Rama to go to the forest immediately. Lakshmana and Sita also decided to follow Rama. Lakshmana went to his mother Sumitra and sought her permission and blessings to serve Rama in the forest. Sumitra was very happy to hear that Lakshmana was following Rama to serve Him. Lakshmana then went to his wife Urmila. As he entered her room, she was making a painting. She was a good painter. Lakshmana enquired as to what she was painting. She replied that she was making a painting of Rama’s coronation.

On hearing this Lakshmana told her that Rama was not going to be crowned and was going to the forest for 14 years. He also informed her that he had decided to go with Rama to the forest for 14 years. Urmila did not have any objection to it and said, “Protect Rama and Sita just as eyelids protect the eyes. They are everything for you. Consider them as your father and mother. Never be slack in serving them. Never think of me even for a moment in the forest for these fourteen years. Only Sita and Rama should be uppermost in your mind.” Saying this, she offered her salutations to him.

Sita, Rama and Lakshmana got into the chariot and proceeded to the forest. Dasaratha ran after the chariot saying, “Oh Rama, stay for a while. Let me see your beautiful form at least for some time. Any way I cannot stop you from going.” The shock of separation from Rama was too severe for Dasaratha to bear. He did not eat anything and he refused to drink even a drop of water. All the time he was saying, “Rama, Rama …” In this way remembering Rama every moment, he left his mortal coil. All this happened because there was a reason behind this and it was like this:

Once Dasaratha went to the forest for hunting. As he reached near the bank of a stream, he heard a noise and thought that some wild animal was drinking water. On hearing this sound, he shot an arrow at the source of the sound. That arrow hit Sravana Kumar which proved fatal. Sravana Kumar had come to the stream to take water and quench the thirst of his old mother and father who were blind and helpless. He was the only support of his parents and carried them with him in a kavadi (a bamboo stick with two baskets at each end) to all places of pilgrimage. When Dasaratha realised what he had done, he was grief-stricken that he had caused the death of the only son of his old parents.

Before dying, Sravana Kumar requested him to carry the water to his old parents. When Dasaratha informed his old parents about the tragic death of their son, they were drowned in inconsolable grief and cursed him that he would also die a tragic death due to separation from his son. That is what had happened to Dasaratha. After all, a curse uttered by noble souls cannot be reversed.

After the marriage of Sita and Rama, Viswamitra left for the forest.

It is not enough if we worship Rama only on His birthday. When Rama returned to Ayodhya all the people of Ayodhya joyously welcomed Him singing His glory and chanting His name. In Bharat, we do not find any village which does not have a temple of Rama or a person who does not know the name of Rama. Wherever we go, the name of Rama is heard . Though thousands of years have passed, Rama’s name is as fresh and new as it was in the past. Rama is ever new. The name of Rama gives joy to everyone. If even an old woman is asked she would say, “I may not be able to say any other word but I constantly chant the name of Rama.” Not even one person would be found in a village who does not know the name of Rama. There is no village where you do not find temples of Rama. Even if the people are not able to build a temple, they will erect a small shelter covered with a couple of sheets and install the idol of Rama in it. Even after the passage of thousands of years, the name of Rama is known everywhere and is held in high esteem by the people. Nowadays even in Russia people are chanting the name of Rama. In fact, the name of Rama has spread to every nook and corner of the world. The name of Rama is the crest jewel of all names. Everybody can easily chant this. Therefore, whatever task you are engaged in, you should constantly chant the name of Rama while performing that task. When you step out from your home or when you are on your way to college, you should keep chanting the name of Rama all the while. The name of Rama should become your life-breath.

Tamil New Year, 18-4-2008,

Prasanthi Nilayam.

Have Self-confidence And Achieve Everything

Have Self-confidence And Achieve Everything

Have Self-confidence And Achieve Everything

Have Self-confidence And Achieve Everything

Have Self-confidence And Achieve Everything

Have Self-confidence And Achieve Everything

6

Respect, Honour And Make Your Mother Happy

Students - Boys and Girls!

Venkataraman has spoken to you
regarding today’s function in a befitting manner. He is a very learned man who has worked in the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai. He has also worked in some specific areas of science, earlier pursued by Sir C.V. Raman. He is the winner of many awards.

Now, what can I say about the mother of this body? Man has actually three bodies – physical, mental and spiritual. Therefore, you are not one person but three – 1. The one you think you are, i.e., body, 2. The one others think you are, i.e., mind, and 3. The one you really are, i.e., Atma (spirit). Your true form is the Atma, not the body or the mind.

The Life Principle Is The Mother, Not The Body

In the circumstances that prevail today, there are very few who honour their mother. Your mother carried you in her womb for nine months and gave you birth after undergoing many difficulties and hardships. Forgetting such a mother is like forgetting God. This amounts to forgetting yourself. Mother is your first teacher. It is the mother who feeds and nourishes you. It is on the lap of your mother that you grow up and experience all types of happiness. None should forget the love that he receives from his mother. First and foremost, our mother deserves our highest respect.

After the death of his mother, many people told Sankaracharya to take the body out. But Sankaracharya told them, “Neither my mother is going to leave me, nor I am going to leave my mother. My mother and I are one forever. Bodies are different but the principle of the Atma is the same in both of us. You may go away from me but none has any right to separate my mother from me. Her body will be cremated in the compound of the house.” Accordingly, Sankaracharya cremated the body of his mother in the compound of his house. None can estimate the feelings of the mother. Even today people of Palakkad either cremate or bury the body of their mother in the compound because they feel that such a great person like Sankaracharya had done it and that they should also follow the same. In the beginning many people criticised Sankaracharya, saying in spite of being a learned scholar, he had committed such an act of impropriety. Knowledge of the scriptures is not that important; it is cultural refinement that has great value. Culture is that which brings about refinement.

Physically your mother may not be with you, but your love for her should remain the same. The mother of this body sent a letter to me when I was in Kodaikanal. After that I came to Brindavan (Bangalore). Once she prayed that My name should be on her lips at the time of her death. When she passed away in May 1972, Summer Course was in progress at Brindavan. She was hale and hearty. All of a sudden she called out, “Swami, Swami, Swami …” I replied, “I am coming, I am coming …” When I came down the stairs, she breathed her last.

So long as there is life in the body, we should take care of it. Once the life goes away the body has no value. Truly speaking, who is the mother? It is the life principle that is the mother, not the body. Body is like a water bubble, mind is like a mad monkey. What for we should keep the body? Immediately, I asked for the car to be brought and sent her body in the car to Puttaparthi. I remained in Brindavan. For the summer course, students had not come just from one college but from various colleges all over India. They all thought that Swami would not come to the class that day. Then what? Exactly at 9 o’ clock, I entered the classroom smilingly. Students were surprised to see Me there. They were all thinking, “What is this? Swami’s mother has passed away and He has come to the classroom.” Mother does not go anywhere. The body that was being addressed as ‘mother’ has left. But the mother is with Me only. Hence, there was no need to be sad. So long as I am there, mother is always with Me. Therefore, I told the students to be happy and not to feel sorry that the mother of this body had left her mortal coil. At that time V.K. Gokak was the Vice Chancellor. He was also surprised thinking, “What, Swami is talking like this!” I have not taken birth from the physical body. After all what is this body! It exists when five elements are there in it. Body is like a bag containing five elements. When the five elements leave the body, it becomes an empty bag. Hence, one should not have undue attachment with the body.

All mothers and children should develop these feelings of detachment. So long as the mother is alive, we should respect her, honour her and make her happy in every possible way. There is no need to be sad when she leaves the body. Even here in Puttaparthi, people said, “What is this? Swami has sent the body of Easwaramma, but He Himself has not come?” What for I should go with the body? Body is only a vesture. It is like a leather bag. When the five elements leave the body, the five senses also go with it. Then why should we grieve over the lifeless body? I arranged for whatever was supposed to be done at the worldly level. I remained in Brindavan and conducted the summer classes happily. In this world, all the physical relationships are of our own making. Otherwise, who is related to whom? This relationship of mother and son is only at the physical level. The mother came, performed the acts that she was destined to perform and then left. I have to perform My duty. Therefore, I engaged Myself in the performance of the task for which I have come. When we see from the worldly point of view, the body is physical and ephemeral.

The body is made up of five elements and is bound to perish sooner or later, but the indweller has neither birth nor death. The indweller has no attachment whatsoever and is the eternal witness.

(Telugu poem)

We should keep Dehi (indweller) in our view and not the physical body (Deha). Everyone forgets the body when he goes to sleep. When you can forget it in your sleep, why can’t you forget it forever? However, so far as your parents are there, you should make them happy. Do not ignore their well-being. We should look after our parents and treat them with love and respect. However, we should not have undue attachment to the body. The relationship between husband and wife is there only after the marriage. Wife comes in the middle of your life but mother is there with you right from the birth. It is sheer foolishness to forget your mother who is with you since your birth and get entirely immersed in the love of your wife who comes in the middle of your life. Other relations like sons, daughters, grandsons, sons-in-law, etc., are also formed in the middle of one’s life. In fact, all worldly relations are temporary; they come and go like passing clouds. You have connections with these relations so long as you exist. Where is the connection when you yourself are not there? Hence, do not form any relationships on the basis of the body. However, perform all duties which you are required to perform at the physical and worldly level with earnestness. Your conduct should be good and your deeds should also be good. Never forget your mother; treasure her form in your heart. We come from the heart of our mother and mother should always be in our heart. Therefore, neither your mother ever leaves you nor you should leave her. Mother and children are united with each other for ever.

Twameva matacha pita Twameva,

Twameva bandhuscha sakha Twameva,

Twameva vidya dravinam Twameva

(you alone are the father and mother, friend and relation, wisdom and wealth).

(Sanskrit verse)

Wherever you may be, keep your heart suffused with the feelings of love for your mother. Once Narasimha Murthy came to Me and said, “My mother has passed away.” I asked him, “Who has passed away – your mother or her body?” Then I told him, “Your mother is here. I am your mother (loud applause). It is the body that dies. Body is like a water bubble. Bodies come and go. Therefore, you should have no worry about the death of the body of your mother. I am here with you. Ask Me whatever you wanted from your mother, I will give (loud applause). Hence, you should not feel sad at all.” From then onwards, Narasimha Murthy is with Me. I give him whatever he wants. Mother, father and other relations are temporary – coming and going, coming and going. But God is not coming and going. He is always present. Therefore, it is only God who is present at all times. The entire world is ephemeral and transitory. How many people have taken birth in this world? Are they all here now? Death can occur in any manner; it has no sign or symptom. Death is death. Even if some symptoms of death are visible, we should not worry at all.

Never ever show disrespect to your mother. Never make her shed a tear by your conduct. Keep her always happy. Her happiness will bring you all good things in life. But we should not worry at the death of our parents. Recently also I told in My discourse in Bangalore that both My mother and father appeared before Me. They smiled on seeing Me; I also smiled on seeing them. We should be happy when our parents smile. Small children smile at everyone. We also start smiling when they smile. The parents are also like small children. Mother always loves her children. Therefore, whatever high position we may attain in our life, we should never disrespect or look down upon our parents. Always consider them as God. Mother is God, father is God. That is why it is said, Matru devo bhava, Pitru devo bhava, Acharya devo bhava, Atithi devo bhava (revere your mother, father, preceptor and guest as God).

Parents Be Made Happy At All Cost

Mother gives you your body. Father provides the means of nourishment and growth of the body. Acharya gives you education and God gives you everything. Therefore, you should never forget these four and treasure them in your heart. Mother and father have their place in the heart of man. He should not forget them even if he is in great difficulty or upset over something. One who forgets his or her parents cannot be a human being. How can you exist without your parents? They are the seeds of your life; the very sourse of your life on earth. Therefore, parents should have prime importance in our life. Even if you are old or in great difficulty, you should make efforts to make your parents happy as far as it is possible for you. You should feed them even if you have to resort to begging. Bear all hardships to look after them. Fulfil all their desires. This will result in the fulfilment of your own desires. Everything in this world is reaction, reflection and resound. None can escape from these. If you cause difficulties to your parents today, your children will cause difficulties for you tomorrow. You will get back the result of your actions without much delay. You may love anyone you like, but do not forget your parents. When your parents have not forgotten you, you should not forget your parents.

Mata nasti, pita nasti, nasti bandu sahodaraha, artham nasti, griham nasti, tasmat jagrata jagratah.

(The relationships like mother, father, brothers, sisters and friends are not real. House and wealth are also illusory. Beware of this truth.)

(Sanskrit verse)

You should remember your parents at all times. You should never forget them. If is for this reason that I have come here straight from Brindavan. Earlier, people thought that Easwaramma Day might be celebrated at Kodaikanal. But I decided that I should be here at Puttaparthi on 6th May and a grand function should be held here and poor people should be made happy by distributing clothes and serving them sumptuous food. Wherever I am, I perform this function in the same grand manner. You should never ignore poor people. We should always remember them and help them.

But some people out of their distress and anger abuse and ridicule them. This is a great mistake. If you ridicule them now, it will come back to you in future. You may be thinking that you are ridiculing them, but, truly speaking, you are ridiculing yourself. Never ridicule or insult them. Always love them. If you insult them before others, you will also be insulted by others. You cannot escape from the reaction, reflection and resound.

Shun Gambling, Lust and Anger

Difficulties come and go. Even the mighty Rama had to cry like an ordinary man on account of his separation from His wife Sita. Even the valorous Pandavas had to live in forest eating leaves and tubers. How much power and valour they had! Yet they had to live in forest and bear all difficulties. What for? They were defeated in gambling. Similar will be the fate of all those who take to this bad path. Gambling is not good at all. Similarly, drinking of liquor is also not good. Addiction to drinking leads to loss of control over oneself. Under the influence of liquor, a drunken man may speak anything. Later on, he will repent after coming back to his normal senses. Lust and anger are the two demonic qualities. Never allow them to come near you. In a fit of anger, we may say anything without considering its consequences. But after a few minutes, when we come to our normal mood, we will feel sorry, “Alas! Why did I abuse like this?” Therefore, first and foremost, kill the anger. Rama killed many demons and demonesses in the forest because of their evil qualities of lust and anger. Whoever one may be, whether a male or a female, if he or she has the evil qualities of lust and anger, they should be punished. Anger and lust are very bad for man.

Love God. Adore Him and worship Him. He is your father, mother and everything. Have relationship only with God. God will never leave you. He is omnipresent. All the worldly people whom you love are like passing clouds. They come and go. But God comes and grows. Therefore, love God and have faith in Him. One who has love for God only is a true human being. (Here Swami called a boy from Iran, who is a student of Sri Sathya Sai Primary School and asked him to chant Vedic mantras.) See how beautifully this boy from Iran has chanted the Vedic mantras! He is a Mohammedan boy. In their country, people are not allowed even to utter the name of Rama in public. When you ask him his name, he will tell, “My name is Sathya.” (Here Swami asked this boy – “What is your name?” What is your parents name? Chant the Vedic mantras nicely and learn all Vedic mantras. Do you know Rig Veda?” The boy then recited Rudram and Sri Suktam with perfect intonation and pronunciation to the applause of the entire gathering.)

Everything is there in the Vedas. The essence of all the religions like Hindu, Islam and Christianity is there in the Vedas. Even Christians sing the glory of God in the same manner. Even the Mohammedans extol the five elements and worship the god for wealth. Hence, God is one for all religions. God is one. There is difference only in names. Mohammedans offer prayers to God five times a day. Hindus also pray to God in the morning and evening. We should never say that the Veda is only for Hindus. Veda is for all. That which is one and universal is the Veda. Veda can alleviate all types of suffering of man. Hence, it is good for everyone to learn the Veda. Many people from America also come here and learn the Vedas. Many people in Russia and Germany also recite the Vedic mantras both in the morning and evening. Since, Hindus do not recite the Vedic mantras, they are forgetting them. Therefore, nobody should forget the Vedas. Veda and Vedanta are like your parents. We should always remember them and never forget them. Therefore, students, whatever you may study, you should never forget God. Only then can you attain peace. People say, “I want peace.” There can be no peace without bhajan. (Here Bhagawan sang the bhajan, “Hari Bhajana Bina …” and continued His discourse.)

Many people perform Yajnas and Yagas for the sake of peace. Where can you get peace from? It is within you only. It does not come from outside. What come from outside are only pieces, pieces, pieces! Peace comes from our heart only. You should do bhajans to attain peace. Only bhajan can give you peace.

Easwaramma Day,

Prasanthi Nilayam, 6-5-2008.

Respect, Honour And Make Your Mother Happy

Respect, Honour And Make Your Mother Happy

Respect, Honour And Make Your Mother Happy

Respect, Honour And Make Your Mother Happy

Respect, Honour And Make Your Mother Happy

7

Namasmarana Is The Highest Spiritual Practice

Embodiments of Divine Atma!

From time immemorial, the Bharatiyas have
been performing various spiritual practices like yajna, japa, tapa, dhyana, etc., to attain God. It has been their faith that one could attain God by undertaking such spiritual practices. But nobody knows about the sankalpa (will) of God who is omnipresent.

God Is The Indweller In The Heart Of Man

Sarvatah panipadam tat sarvathokshi siromukham, Sarvatah sruthimalloke sarvamavruthya tishthati (with hands, feet, eyes, head, mouth and ears pervading everything, God permeates the entire universe). God has innumerable mouths, ears, eyes, hands and feet. Wherever you look, God is present there. Such a Cosmic Being cannot be attained merely by undertaking spiritual practices by man. Nobody can say that God is this or that. Then, what is the nature of God? He is most subtle and universally present. Whomsoever you salute or ridicule, it reaches God. Ordinary mortals cannot understand such a subtle divine principle because of their own weakness. They seek satisfaction in earthly and worldly pleasures and have no yearning for ethical and spiritual attainments. All of them, from the most ordinary to the highly evolved individuals, undertake all types of rituals like Yajna or yaga merely for their satisfaction. But God can be attained only by ethical and spiritual endeavours. Desire to amass more and more money is increasing in all fields, more particularly in politics today. But this is sheer ignorance. So long as man is in the grip of this ignorance he cannot understand the principle of divinity. As long as your heart is filled with the feelings of ‘I’(pride) and ‘mine’ (attachment), you cannot realise God. Therefore, what is the first and foremost requirement to know God? Elimination of the feelings of ‘I’ and ‘mine’.

Many people offer worship and perform yajnas to have the direct vision of God. But this is not possible for anyone by such means. Then, how can it be possible? All objects in Creation are bound to perish one day or the other. The mountains can sink in water and rivers can dry up. Human body is also perishable. Nothing in this Creation is permanent. Only God is eternal, immortal, infinite and imperceptible. How is it possible for anyone to understand such a Cosmic Being? Some people imagine that they had the vision of God in meditation or in the yajna fire. But this is merely their illusion; such a vision is not everlasting. But where does God dwell? He dwells in the heart of all in the form of Atmic principle. He has to be attained only by the principle of the Self. It is not proper to attribute various names and forms to Him.

Divine Name Has Infinite Power

When Rama reached the seashore to go to Lanka and bring Sita back after killing Ravana, many people felt that it was an impossible task because they thought Ravana was very wicked, fierce and powerful. Moreover, there was a vast sea to be crossed which was not possible. Rama suggested that a bridge across the sea be built. Hanuman, Jambavan and other monkeys asserted that the bridge could be constructed in no time. Agreeing to their suggestion, Rama commanded them to start constructing the bridge. The monkeys then brought big boulders and parts of mountains from various quarters and started throwing them into the sea, but they all sank in sea water. How could the bridge be made in this way? It could not be made unless the rocks and boulders settled at one place. So, what could be done for that? Perceiving the difficult situation, Lakshmana said to Rama, “Dear elder brother, everything in this world is perishable and bound to sink. But there is one thing that does not perish or sink. And that is Your Name. Your Name is everlasting, ever true and ever abiding. It is indestructible. The bridge should be constructed on the foundation of Your Name.” Rama commended Lakshmana by patting his back and said, “Lakshmana,you have suggested the correct method.” Hearing this, Hanuman said to Rama, “Swami, I can do this work.”

Now the monkeys started bringing the rocks and Hanuman told them to write the word ‘Rama’ on each boulder. The boulders with the Name ‘Rama’ written on them did not sink in water, but started drifting away. Then Hanuman told them that they should write the letter ‘Ra’ on one boulder and ‘ma’ on the other. The monkeys did as commanded and threw the two boulders together in to the sea with devotion and steadfast faith. The waves of the ocean brought the two boulders together to make the word ‘Rama’. In this way, the bridge was constructed. No rock did ever sink and such a long bridge was constructed in a short time. What was the foundation of the rocks and boulders? It was Rama’s Name. Since all of them bore the two letters ‘Ra’ and ‘ma’ which constituted the Name Rama, they floated on water. As soon as the bridge was constructed, Rama, Lakshmana, Hanuman and the entire army crossed over and reached Lanka in no time. Vibhishana also said, “Oh Rama! Everything can be achieved by the power of Your Name. Your Name of just two letters has enabled the monkeys to build such a long bridge.” The war with Ravana resulted in his death and the release of Sita from his prison. Thus, it is the Name of Rama that is most powerful and eternal. The form will sink at any time, at any place and under any condition. But the Name will not sink and will save you wherever you are. In this way, Rama taught that the Name is ever true and eternal. None can ever damage or destroy it, nor can anyone take it away from you.

The war with Ravana could be won on the strength and power of the Name. It is, therefore, enough if you chant Rama’s Name. Then you will be victorious in all your endeavours. Like the Name of Rama, the Names of Krishna, Siva, Hari and Hara are also constituted by two letters. Make any Name of God as the basis of your life, then you can achieve everything. Name is eternal but form is ephemeral; the form has old age and death. Therefore, it is the Name that is most important. This is what Rama has taught mankind. Therefore, chant the Name of God constantly. Other spiritual practices like charity, yajna, worship, etc., are of little use if you do not chant the Divine Name. The Bharatiyas have been practising nine modes of worship of God, namely, listening, singing, contemplating on Vishnu, serving His Lotus Feet, salutation, worship, servitude, friendship and self-surrender.

The last and highest step in these modes of worship is self-surrender. Surrender does not mean offering your body to God. Real surrender is the chanting of the Divine Name and making it the basis of your life. It is for the same reason that Guru Nanak, the first Guru of the Sikhs, started community singing. He told his followers that they should seek fulfilment in life by chanting the Divine Name. Therefore, all Sikhs give highest priority to chanting of the Divine Name in their life. In the Golden Temple at Amritsar, the holy place of the Sikhs, the Divine Name is chanted constantly. Therefore, consider the chanting of the Name of God as the most important spiritual practice.

You may spend any amount of money in charity and in doing acts of service, but these practices will give you only temporary mental satisfaction if not associated with the chanting of the Divine Name. You see how people give useless advertisements in newspapers with the desire to earn money. Money comes and goes, morality comes and grows. Therefore, develop morality. This gives you purity of mind. You do Laksharchana or Kotyarchana (reciting one lakh or one crore times the Name of God), and wait for the fruit of this spiritual practice. But this turns out to be a futile wait; you never get the expected result because you perform that as a mere ritual. What you get is temporary satisfaction. There are many rich people who spend any amount of money in the performance of yajnas and yagas, but when a beggar comes to their door for alms, they withdraw their hand. This is not correct. God cannot be attained by money. It is God who has given you all your money. Then why do you give it back to Him? Utilise your money on your worldly and spiritual pursuits. Also use it to help poor people. However, you can attain Me only through Namasmarana. Therefore, chant the Divine Name and attain the Divine. It is only by chanting the Divine Name that you can easily attain God. When Draupadi was being humiliated in the Kaurava court, she prayed to Krishna to protect her and called out His many names like Dwarakavasi, Brindavana Sanchari (dweller of Dwaraka, rambler of Brindavan, etc. Krishna did not come. Then she called out describing His attributes like Dayamaya, Kripamaya (embodiment of kindness, embodiment of compassion), etc. Still Krishna did not come to her rescue. But when she addressed Him as Hridayavasi (in dweller in her heart), He manifested before her that very moment. Where does God live? He lives in your heart. Therefore, there is no use calling Him with the feeling that He dwells somewhere outside.

Form Is Perishable But Name Is Eternal

It is possible for you to acquire any number of worldly and material things but you are not able to attain God who is right within you. See God who is immanent in you. Look inside, don’t look outside. Close your eyes and pray to God who dwells in you. Then only will God manifest before you and grant you everything. It is only by chanting the Divine Name that you can receive God’s grace and His direct vision. Nagar sankirtan has been devised to spread Namasmarana (chanting of the Divine Name) among people more and more. While chanting the name of God in Nagar sankirtan, do not extol on the attributes of God. There is no use extolling the attributes of God any number of times. God is the embodiment of the Atma. The Atma is attributeless. The names such as Krishna, Rama or Sai Baba, etc., are the names of the bodies of the avatars. The avatars were not born with these names. Names were given to them by others. It is the body that has birth, not the Atma. Death can come to the body at any time. When you ask God His name, He will reply, “Aham Brahmasmi (I am Brahman).” He will not say, “I am this or that form.” Aham (I) has no particular form; it connotes the Atma. We give many names to the Atma and seek satisfaction by calling out these names. Not only that, we clamour so much for this temporary satisfaction. This satisfaction is not permanent; it is ephemeral and lasts only for a short time. It is only the Atma that is ever true, everlasting and eternal.

Rama incarnated thousands of years ago. But His Name lives even today. Even now, when we are faced with any difficulty, we say, “Ayyo Rama!” It is the Name that is eternal and not the form. Therefore, contemplate on the Name of God, have His direct realisation, install Him in your heart and merge with Him. Many rivers like Cauveri, Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati flow in India. When there is an earthquake, thousands of houses are destroyed. When the rivers are in flood, several villages are washed away and many lives are lost. Hence, forms are not permanent; forms are ephemeral and perishable. But formless Ganga and Yamuna are flowing within you in the form of Soham ‘So’ in the right nerve channel and ‘Hum’ in the left, both joining the central nerve channel Sushumna. By activating this subtle channel Sushumna, you should reach your spiritual heart. Many of you know, when people go to a temple, they close their eyes and offer their salutations to the idol of the deity installed there. Don’t you go there to have the Darshan of the deity? Then, why do you close your eyes on reaching there? You do not look at the idol of the deity in the temple, while you keep chanting ‘Rama, Rama, Rama’ within you.

Perform All Actions To Please God

Similarly, when you go to Tirupati, you stand before the idol and chant ‘Venkateswara, Venkateswara, Venkateswara’. You pay a fee to enter the temple and have the Darshan of the deity. In spite of that, you close your eyes when you are in front of the idol. Develop this inner vision if you want to have the grace of God. Do you know why has God given you eyes? Not to see anything and everything, but to see the Lord of Kailasa. Why has God given you hands? Has God given you hands only to take food into your mouth? No, no. God has given you hands to serve mankind. Similarly, God has given you tongue to chant the name of God. Do you know why has God given you feet? Not to roam about in all the countries of the world, but to go round the temple of God. That is how you should sanctify the organs of the body given to you by God. You say, you do Seva (service). But do you know the meaning of Seva? Is it to massage the feet of somebody with your hands? No, no. When you serve anyone, develop the feeling ‘I am serving Rama’, ‘I am serving Krishna’, ‘I am serving my deity’. Develop such feelings in your heart more and more. Whatever you eat, whatever you do, everything should be done with the feeling of offering it to God. Perform all tasks to please God. Whatever work you do, consider it as the work of God. When you develop this feeling with total dedication, then God will manifest before you.

Fill your mind with the name of God. If you fill your mind with the name of God, you will experience immense bliss. Bhajans have been devised to fill your mind with Divine Name. “Hari bhajan bina sukha santi nahin …” (There can be no happiness and peace without chanting the name of God). It is enough if you adhere to Divine Name. Then you do not need to offer any other material like flowers, food, etc., to God. God does not need your flowers which if you offer in the morning will dry up in the evening. You offer food to God. You place it before the deity and then eat it yourself! Why do you do this drama of offering food to God? Instead, offer your love to God. That is the food of God. It is love that is most important. Love has no form. Sathya, Dharma, Santi, Prema and Ahimsa are the gifts of God to man. Sathya has no form. The name ‘Sathya’ has been given to this body, but Sathya (truth) is formless. Truth is eternal. It does not undergo any change in the three periods of time past, present and future. Sathyannasti paro Dharma (there is no Dharma greater than adherence to truth). Dharma originates from Sathya only. Where there is truth, there is Dharma. Where there is no truth, Dharma also does not abide there. When there is Sathya in your heart, you would be endowed with Dharma. When you have Sathya and Dharma, peace will descend on you and you will experience supreme peace. You say, you try to attain peace and pray for it. Where is peace available? Is it available in a shop or in a marketplace? No, no. It has to come to you from you only. It is, in fact, present in you. When you have peace, love will shine in you. The evil qualities of anger, hatred, jealousy, hypocrisy and ostentation cannot even come near a person who is endowed with love.

Speak Truth Under All Circumstances

Love has no form of its own. Whatever you desire, you start loving it. Have love and give love to all. Do not hate anyone. Where jealousy and hatred are not there, conflicts cannot exist. The students sing the song: Sathya Dharmamu, Santi, Premalato Nee Nitya Jivana Yatra Saginchu (perform the journey of your life with truth, righteousness, peace and love as your companions). Therefore, first and foremost, you should develop truth. You should speak truth under all circumstances. Do not tell a lie to escape from blame. You can escape from blame temporarily by telling a lie, but your heart will be devoid of peace forever. When you do not have truth, how can you get righteousness? Therefore, first of all protect truth. Truth is God. There are no two truths; truth is only one. God is truth. Therefore, always protect truth. Whatever you do, tell it truthfully. If you give room to evil qualities like anger, hypocrisy, jealousy, etc., then you are bound to ruin yourself. When your heart is bereft of truth, you cannot do anything good. When you truthfully tell someone, “I have bought this article for three rupees and will give you for five rupees,” you earn a profit of two rupees. But if you demand ten rupees for the same article by telling a lie just to earn more profit, you will be inviting many more untruths.This is the main reason why man today has become the victim of so many miseries. Do not tell lies. Do not burden yourself with the load of sins by telling lies. Do not tell lies to earn more profit. You will have to undergo so much suffering due to this. Lead your life with love. Whomsoever you address, speak to him with love. When you thus lead your life with love, you will attain everything.

Embodiments of Love!

There is love in everyone of you. But you do not make proper use of it. Rather, you put your love to misuse. How far can a person go if he walks on his head instead of his feet? God has given you feet for walking. Similarly, God has given you tongue to speak truth. Speaking untruth is like walking on your head. How long can you go like that? God has given you head to make proper use of it and think: “What is good and what is bad? What is truth and what is untruth?” While saying or doing anything, first think whether what you are saying is true or untrue, and what you are doing is right or wrong. After due consideration, take only to the path of truth. Conduct yourself in accordance with God’s command. Speak only that which is truthful. Truth is the other name of God. Constantly chant the name of God. There is no use spending money aimlessly on rituals and worship. Instead, give food to the hungry and clothes to the needy. Do as much as you can. But never do anything by forsaking the name of God. If you give alms to a beggar, chant the name of Rama while giving alms. Chant silently in your mind; there is no need to chant loudly. Mind is the foundation of your life. Manah eva manushyanam karanam bandhamokshayo (mind is the cause of bondage and liberation of man). Whatever your mind may forget, it should not forget the name of God.

Give Up All Demonic Qualities

It is by the power of His Name that Rama crossed the ocean and reached Lanka. Hence, we should cross the ocean of our difficulties and troubles by using the power of the divine name. Only Name is enough to root out all our anxieties, troubles, sorrows, miseries, worries and maladies. Lust, anger, jealousy, envy and hypocrisy were the qualities of the demons who lived in Lanka. Do not give room to these demonic qualities in your heart. If you allow the demon of anger to abide in you, that itself is enough to turn everything bad in your life. No work of an angry man becomes fruitful. Anger distances even your relatives and friends from you. Therefore, do not allow anger to come near you. Lead your life, chanting within you constantly the name of God who is the embodiment of peace and love.

When all individuals develop peace in them, then the entire country will become good and peaceful. Those who aspire for the welfare of the country should live always in love. Lead your life without causing any harm to anybody. We sing this prayer after the conclusion of Bhajans: Loka samasta sukhino bhavantu (may all the people of the world be happy!). Remember God with love. The entire world will be good by the power of love. Devotees should never do away with love. Even if others criticise, abuse or beat you, you should lead your life with love. Live in love. Love lives by giving and forgiving, self lives by getting and forgetting (loud applause). Fill your life with love. Even if someone beats you, do not abuse him. Think that it is God only who has punished you like this. Everything happens according to what God wills. It is God who gives you troubles and joys; it is He who protects you and punishes you in many ways. Everything is God. Therefore, offer everything to Him. Whatever you get in your life, consider it as the gift of God. Do all actions to please God. When you think like this, then you will attain great blessedness. If He could make boulders to float on water, can He not make your mind float in the ocean of Samsara? Cross the ocean of Samsara by converting the mind into a bridge. Use it to cross that vast ocean and kill the demons of lust and anger. For this, you must do Bhajan and sing the glories of God. Bhajan is very necessary to realise the glory of the divine name. When so many people do Bhajan together, the prayer from the heart of at least one or two will reach God. Won’t even one person among so many have a sacred heart? Hence, there is a great possibility of your melting the heart of God by community singing. Bhajan is very necessary to melt the heart of God. When you do Nagar sankirtan early in the morning, everybody will get up and listen to the Divine Name. Hearing the name of God as soon as they wake up will fill them with great bliss and enthusiasm. Therefore, constantly remember the name of God; never forget it. This is the most noble path. This is true spiritual practice. When you do this, you will be immensely blessed.

Divine Discourse, Brindavan, 24-5-2008.

Namasmarana Is The Highest Spiritual Practice

Namasmarana Is The Highest Spiritual Practice

Namasmarana Is The Highest Spiritual Practice

Namasmarana Is The Highest Spiritual Practice

Namasmarana Is The Highest Spiritual Practice

Namasmarana Is The Highest Spiritual Practice

Namasmarana Is The Highest Spiritual Practice

8

Seeing Unity In Diversity Is True Spirituality

All names and forms are the manifestations of the Supreme Being who is the embodiment of peace and auspiciousness. He is Existence, Knowledge, Bliss Absolute and non-dual. He is Sathyam, Sivam, Sundaram (Truth, Goodness, Beauty).

(Sanskrit verse)

Embodiments of Divine Atma!

People today acquire many types of education
in this world but they lack the knowledge of humanness. They see diversity in unity but cannot see unity in diversity. Embodiments of love! It is very easy to see diversity in unity; anyone can do that. But it requires a lot of effort to recognise unity underlying the entire diversity that exists in this world.

Recognise The Divine Principle Present In All

Man today should try to acquire the knowledge of the Atmic principle that is uniformly present in all. One who knows the principle of the Atma knows everything. Consider all human beings in this world as one and recognise the oneness of the entire mankind.

Religions are many but goal is one.

Clothes are many but yarn is one.

Jewels are many but gold is one.

Cows are many but milk is one.

There is unity in the entire creation of God, but man causes many divisions in it. Unity of the entire mankind is the need of the hour. When you develop unity, there will be purity in your heart. Where there is purity, there is divinity. Unity, purity, divinity are closely interlinked and interdependent. But man today is drifting away from unity. I have been telling, “Religions are many, but goal is one.” So many people have gathered in this hall. Though they took different routes to come here, the destination for all of them was the same. In the same way, all have to reach one God. Divinity is immanent in every human being. Human life is not possible without divinity. Daivam manusha rupena (God is in the form of a human being). Who is a human being? Without understanding the meaning of this term, people consider someone as a human being who is endowed with human form, with hands, feet, ears, eyes, etc., like a human being. But it is not so. In fact, man is not different from God. He is not a separate entity. One who realises his oneness with God is a true human being. There may be differences in physical forms of human beings, but the same divine principle is present in all. However, some people cause differences between man and man by various ways. This is the cause of all types of conflicts, sorrows and miseries in the world today. When man understands the truth that the same divine principle is present in all, there will be no room for differences and troubles. Therefore, we should always focus on the divinity of man. All our difficulties arise when we multiply our differences, forgetting our divinity. Therefore, we should firmly install the divine principle in our heart which is the same in everyone.

You Can Accomplish Everything By Chanting The Divine Name

I told you a few days ago, how Hanuman crossed the ocean and reached Lanka by the power of the divine name of Rama. Before this, all the Vanaras gathered on the seashore were asked the question, “Who can cross the ocean in one leap?” Some of them said they could cover a distance of 40 Yojanas (leagues); others said they could go up to a distance of 50 or 60 Yojanas. But when the same question was put to Hanuman, he said, “By the grace of Rama, I can cover any distance.” While others had a limited understanding of Rama’s divinity, Hanuman alone had the total perception of the reality. It is not the spiritual practices like japa, tapa, yoga and yajna that give us the direct perception of God. Many people have been undertaking these practices. But, what have they experienced and achieved? These are merely physical and external practices. It is the name of God that is most important. When you know this truth, you will know everything. That is why I keep on telling you from time to time “Hari bhajan bina sukhas santi nahin …” (There can be no happiness and peace without chanting the name of God). You can accomplish everything by chanting the name of God alone. Hanuman crossed the vast ocean by constantly chanting the name of Rama. But other Vanaras misunderstood this truth.

At the time of construction of the bridge over the ocean also, Hanuman told the Vanaras to write ‘Ra’ on one stone and ‘ma’ on the other and throw them in the ocean. Then the stones would join together to form the bridge. Rama, Lakshmana and the Vanaras crossed the ocean and reached Lanka by walking on this bridge constructed on the principle of unity of the divine name of Rama. We should treasure this truth in our heart. Instead of observing differences on the basis of names like Ramanna, Lakshmanna, Bhimanna, etc., we should recognise the Atmic principle in them and consider all as the embodiments of divinity. Spiritual practices like japa, dhyana, yajna and yoga have little significance if divine name is absent in your heart. You have a name which has been given to you by your parents after your birth; you were not born with this name. What you are born with is the principle of Rama. That is the Atma. Call it Atma, call it Omkara, call it Rama, all refer to the same divine principle. Even if you come across your enemy, offer your salutations to him. Your salutations do not go to your enemy, they reach God. When you greet him lovingly saying “hello”, he will also give up hatred and become friendly with you. But people today out of their ego identify themselves with their names. They consider themselves as Ramaiah, Krishnaiah, etc., instead of saying Aham Brahmasmi (I am Brahman). This is the root cause of all our differences. The name that is universally present in all is the name of Rama. When you offer your salutations to others while contemplating on Rama, your salutations will reach Rama. Therefore, do all actions to please God. All our daily chores like cooking, eating, etc., are suffused with the principle of Rama. People undertake worldly, external and physical practices because they do not understand this subtle truth.

Ego And Attachment Are The Cause Of Man’s Bondage

All the developments in science are only at worldly and physical level. Scientists have developed aeroplanes which can fly at a high speed and cover hundreds of miles in a minute. But they expose man to all sorts of dangers. All the worldly things are bound to perish one day or the other. A potter makes many pots. But if they slip from our hand, they break into pieces.

There is no greatness in all that we do for our individual benefit; whatever we do should be beneficial to society and community. Our welfare lies in the welfare of the society. But today nobody thinks about society. Wherever we go, we find selfishness and self-interest rampant. That is why there are so many conflicts and differences in the world. There are divisions even in one family. Due to the increase of differences among people, unity has been shattered. Therefore, we should strive for unity. You and your neighbour are one. There is difference only in your names, but divinity immanent in both of you is the same. There is no mistake in calling people by different names when the divine principle of unity is firmly embedded in your heart. Perform your grihasta dharma (duty as a householder). This is your worldly duty. But you must recognise your daiva dharma (duty as a divine being) which is universal. That is why I address you as ‘Divyatma Swarupulara’ (Embodiments of Divine Atma). When somebody wants to say what he is saying is absolutely true, he would use the term ‘Atma sakshi’ meaning Atma is his witness. Therefore, we should conduct ourselves recognising the principle of Atma.

Unity of the world today has been destroyed due to the abnormal increase in the differences of people. Therefore, we should not observe differences on the basis of names and forms. We should develop faith in the Atmic principle. Atma is only one. It is indivisible and cannot be broken into pieces. Only the body dies, but the Atma lives forever. It is said that every human being undergoes the cycle of birth and death. But it is only the human body that takes birth, grows and dies, not the Atma. Therefore, know the oneness of the Atmic principle. Let people say anything, you should recognise that your Atma is your witness. Do not give up this divine principle under any circumstances. Whatever you do, do it for the sake of Atma. Whatever delicious items of food you eat, consider them as an offering to God. Whatever you do in life, do it with the feeling of offering it to God. Sarva karma bhagavad preetyartham (do all actions to please God). When you have such sacred feelings, you can attain liberation easily.

One can attain moksha (liberation) only when one gives up moha (worldly attachment). The feeling of ‘I’ is the cause of ego and that of ‘mine’ is the basis of attachment. Ego and attachment are the cause of your bondage. Therefore, first and foremost you should try to get rid of ego and attachment. As much as you reduce these two, that much closer you will go to liberation. Less luggage more comfort makes travel a pleasure. Man should reduce the burden of his desires. But man, on the other hand, keeps on adding to the burden of desires as he grows. As his desires increase, humanness in man decreases and he loses the awareness of his divinity. Therefore, we should develop divinity in us. Everything else is bound to perish one day or the other. Howsoever safe and secure we may keep our possessions, ultimately we have to lose them. We may deposit all our money in a big bank, put it under lock and key and arrange proper security for it. In spite of all that, we are bound to lose it some time or the other. We should not have temptation for things which are perishable. What remains with us forever at all places is the principle of the Atma.

Develop The Spirit Of Unity

Though thousands of years have passed since Rama incarnated as the son of Dasaratha, all people, from a child to an old man, even today chant His name. People say, ‘Rama, Rama’ when they encounter any difficulty. This sacred name is whispered into the ears of a dying man. It is the name of Rama that you should love and nothing else. As He attracted everyone, He was given the name ‘Rama’. You may chant any name of God, but you should have firm faith that the Atma within you is the divine principle. Then you will not have any difficulties. We accumulate so much money. But for whom? Can we carry even a paisa with us when we depart from this world? No, no. We leave even our body here. The mind may waver and the intellect may be clouded, but the Atma remains as the eternal witness. That is the principle of Rama. The name Rama does not denote any particular form. It denotes the divine principle. Therefore, always chant the divine name, be it Rama, Krishna or any other name. Siva means auspiciousness. It is only the name of God which imparts auspiciousness to us. We may say Srinivasa, Venkatesa, Rama, etc. All these denote the same divine principle. Install this divine principle in your heart. People chant ‘Ram, Ram, Ram’ and perform japa. When the japa comes to an end, Rama is also forgotten. But we should never forget Rama. Whatever work we may be doing, we should constantly chant the divine name. In Kali Yuga, namasmarana is prescribed as the means to attain liberation. Realising this truth, Guru Nanak started the practice of community singing. All should come together and sing bhajans. The mind of some may go to other directions. But at least a few of them will focus it on God’s name. Therefore, when you do Bhajans in a group, the prayers of at least one or two may reach God which will benefit all. Do we eat all the fruits that ripen on a tree? No. We eat only a few and distribute the rest to others. We prepare payasam (sweet pudding) in our house. All the family members partake of it; one who prepares it does not consume the whole lot.

When Dasaratha performed Putrakameshti Yajna (sacrifice for the birth of a son), an effulgent being emerged from the yajna fire and gave him a vessel of payasam for distributing it to his three wives, Kausalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi. (Here Swami narrated the story of the birth of Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna and revealed the mystery why Lakshmana always followed Rama and Satrughna followed Bharata).

There was such a strong bond of love between Rama and Lakshmana as well as between Bharata and Satrughna that they never left the company of each other. See, how much power this unity holds! Union is strength. When you don’t talk to each other and develop enmity, you achieve nothing. Even if some feelings of enmity arise in you, you should try to adjust with each other. Devotees should conduct themselves gracefully with proper understanding and adjustment. Even if someone criticises the deity you worship, do not react to that criticism. Rather, you should think that it is your deity only who has assumed the form of the critic. Praise and censure make no difference to God. You should always love all. When you love everyone in this manner, all evil qualities like hatred, anger and greed will leave you. When you become free from these evil qualities, you will attain liberation easily. You claim that you are a devotee, but what is the use when you have hatred, anger, jealousy, hypocrisy, malice, etc., in you? These evil qualities will ruin your life. Talk smilingly to others and develop the spirit of unity.

So many people have come here. All of them have participated in Bhajans. But, how many have true devotion in their heart? Even if there are ten people with true devotion, it is enough. All of you should imbibe the spirit of unity. Whomsoever you come across, say, “He is my brother, she is my sister.” In this way, consider all as your brothers and sisters and conduct yourself with unity. All are the children of God. Therefore, if at any time feelings of hatred develop between you and others, remind yourself that you are not separate from them. Consider that all are one, attain unity and experience its bliss. Seeing unity in diversity is divinity and true spirituality. Study of scriptures, performing rituals, doing worship, etc., do not signify true spirituality. Recognising the unity of the Atmic principle is true spirituality. When you realise this unity, you will earn divine grace. You are always chanting, ‘Sai Ram’, ‘Sai Ram’, ‘Sai Ram’, but this alone will not develop devotion in you. You should imbibe the spirit of unity and chant the divine name to develop true devotion. If you have even a trace of true devotion in you, you should do good to others and live in harmony with them. Do not hate anyone. Love all. If you have love and faith, you will develop non-violence. Then only can you experience bliss.

Unity Of Human Race Is Imminent

What is the real purpose of telling you to develop truth, righteousness, peace and love? Righteousness emerges from truth. Sathyannasti paro Dharma (There is no Dharma greater than adherence to truth). Without truth, there can be no righteousness. Similarly, love cannot exist without righteousness. If you have love, you will not hate or disrespect anybody. Sathya, Dharma, Santi and Prema are the primary human qualities. Anger, jealousy, malice, hypocrisy, lust, hatred and greed are not human qualities. If you have love and peace, all other virtues will develop in you automatically.

People keep on repeating, “I want peace, I want peace.” Can anybody get peace by this type of constant repetition? No, not at all. You can have peace only when you develop love. Peace is not a commodity that you can buy in the market. It comes from the heart which is filled with love. Where does love come from? Love comes from righteousness and righteousness comes from truth. Hence, truth is the source of righteousness, righteousness is the source of love and love is the source of peace. Where there are both peace and love, non-violence comes there on its own. Therefore, truth, righteousness, peace, love and non-violence are the qualities of a true human being. Consider them as your Pancha Pranas (five life-breaths). Man has forgotten today these five life-breaths of human qualities. Instead he is harbouring evil qualities like lust, anger, etc., considering them as his life-breaths. That is why he is enmeshed in so many difficulties. When you develop human qualities, you will surely attain peace. Therefore, man should preserve his innate human qualities like his five life-breaths. He should keep away from evil qualities like lust, anger, etc.

Believe it or not, in the next 25 to 30 years, the entire human race will become one. People of all religions like Hindu, Muslim, Christian, etc., will be united. There will be complete unity in the world. It is from Bharat that the spirit of devotion for God will spread to all other parts of the world. Treasure this truth in your heart. People consider culture as a way of life. No, no, it is not so. Unity of all is culture; purity is culture. You will realise divinity when you burn all your impurities. When you develop love, all your evil qualities like hatred, etc., will wither away.

People develop hatred and jealousy against those who excel them, saying, “How much money he has accumulated! What a high position he has attained!” They hate those who have greater achievements. This is not good. If someone has achieved more than you, you should consider that it is your own incapability which is the cause of your lesser achievement. You should expand your love and broaden your heart.Then you will succeed in achieving more. Victory and defeat depend on the feelings of your heart. It is with reference to this that the Vedas declare, Manah eva manushyanam karanam bandhamokshayo (mind is the cause of bondage and liberation of man). Our mind is the root cause of our feelings of love or hatred. Whatever work we do, we should do it with the spirit of unity. Perform all your actions to please God. That will surely lead to universal good. After Bhajan, we all chant, Samasta Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu (May all the beings of all the worlds be happy!) What is the great achievement if you alone are happy? All should be happy. Your happiness lies in the happiness of all, your well-being lies in the well-being of all. You cannot be happy when others are not happy. Therefore, you should pray for the welfare of all, including small creatures and insects. This is the real meaning of unity. Only the heart that desires the well-being of all is dear to God.

All that I have said today is profound truth. This is the essence of devotion. What does devotion mean? It is not a big ocean. It is an ocean of bliss. That is what is described as Nityanandam, Parama Sukhadam, Kevalam Jnanamurtim, Dwandwateetam, Gagana Sadrisham, Tattwamasyadi Lakshyam, Ekam, Nityam, Vimalam, Achalam, Sarvadhee Sakshibhutam, Bhavateetam, Trigunarahitam (God is the embodiment of eternal bliss, wisdom absolute, beyond the pair of opposites, expansive and pervasive like the sky, the goal indicated by the Mahavakya That Thou Art, one without a second, eternal, pure, unchanging, witness of all functions of the intellect, beyond all mental conditions and the three attributes of satwa, rajas and tamas). We should attain this eternal bliss.

Divine Discourse, Brindavan, 31-5-2008,

Seeing Unity In Diversity Is True Spirituality

Seeing Unity In Diversity Is True Spirituality

Seeing Unity In Diversity Is True Spirituality

Seeing Unity In Diversity Is True Spirituality

Seeing Unity In Diversity Is True Spirituality

Seeing Unity In Diversity Is True Spirituality

Do not postpone the cultivation of devotion to God. Start serving God through service to fellow-beings. Every act of service, however small, is service to the Divine. Demonstrate, by reverential behaviour, selfless service, truthfulness and integrity, that you are pursuing the ideals for which the Sathya Sai Educational institutions stand.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

9

Undertake Rama Chintana

Embodiments of Love!

THE Ramayana Saptaha (seven day chanting
of the divine name ‘Rama’) has been conducted with great joy and devotion during the last seven days. You have all participated in this great event. The purohits (priests) who conducted the Saptaha with great devotion and sincerity and the speakers from different parts who participated in it made the event a grand success. Setty garu who arranged this function had made several conveniences for the priests and devotees and made every one happy.

Group Singing Of Ramanama Is More Effective

Constant contemplation on Ramanama and singing of the glory of the divine name ‘Rama’ confers bliss, peace and prosperity on one and all. There are two ways of contemplating on the divine name and singing its glory – the individual sadhana and the collective sadhana. Of the two, the collective sadhana is better. It was Guru Nanak who had initiated the practice of group singing of the glory of the divine name. In fact the individual chanting of the divine name is not enough. If thousands of people join together and sing the glory of the divine name in one voice, the prayers of atleast one or two individuals will certainly move Divinity. Hence, it is better to follow the collective method. Wherever you are, sing the glory of the divine name of Rama in a group. Contemplation on Ramanama confers peace and happiness. It is a universal sadhana.

The name ‘Rama’ is not limited to a particular form. It dwells in every individual as ‘Atma Rama’. The atma which dwells in every individual is given the name ‘Rama’. Hence, right from a child to a grown up individual, everyone has to undertake the sadhana of constant contemplation of Ramanama. We often see even blind people contemplating on Ramanama, saying ‘Rama Rama’. It is only the divine name that can confer peace and happiness. Nothing else, not even wealth and property, can bring happiness and peace. Constant contemplation on the divine name can remove all worries.

“To be born is a worry

To live on this earth is a worry

The world is a source of worry

Death too is a worry,

All actions and difficulties cause worry,

Devotion to Sri Rama is the panacea for all worries” (Telugu poem)

Hence, undertake Ramachintana (contemplation on the divine name of Rama), whenever you find yourself surrounded by worries. The Ramanama has been in the hearts of people since aeons.

The Story of Rama’s Birth

In Treta Yuga, King Dasaratha of Ayodhya longed for sons to continue the Ikshwaku dynasty. He performed a yajna called ‘Puthrakameshtiyaga’ praying that he be blessed with a son. King Dasaratha had three wives – Kausalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi. He had one daughter named Santa through Kausalya earlier, whom he gave in adoption to his friend. She married Sage Rishyasringa. The Puthrakameshti yaga was conducted under the guidance of that couple. At the conclusion of the yaga, Agni Deva, the fire god emerged from the sacred homakunda with a vessel containing Payasam (sacred pudding). He gave it to Dasaratha to be distributed equally among his three wives. Kausalya and Kaikeyi received their share of the sacred pudding happily and took it to their puja (worship) rooms. Both were very happy that their son to be born would be the heir apparent to the throne of Ayodhya. The claims of both appeared to be genuine, - Kausalya’s by virtue of her being the eldest queen and Kaikeyi’s because of a promise her father had extracted, at the time of her marriage to King Dasaratha that the son to be born to her would be made the King of Ayodhya. Dasaratha cannot go back on his word, as per the tradition of Ikshwaku family. However, Sumitra had no such desire. She carried her bowl of pudding to the terrace and placed it on the parapet wall, while drying her hair in the sun. She was in a pensive mood thinking that it was of no use to partake of the pudding as her son to be born would have no claim to the throne like Kausalya’s or Kaikeyi’s. While she was thus contemplating on the future, an eagle swooped down and carried away the bowl containing the sacred pudding. She was shocked and disturbed fearing the reprimand she would have to face from her husband for being careless. She at once rushed downstairs and informed Kausalya and Kaikeyi about what had happened. They hugged Sumitra and consoled her, saying, “Sister why are you so much disturbed? We three are one and we will share our portion of the pudding with you”. So saying they brought their bowls and poured some quantity of pudding from each of their bowls into another bowl and offered it to Sumitra. Unlike present times, there used to be perfect rapport between the co-wives in those days. Thus, all the three queens got their bowls containing the sacred pudding ready and took them to Sage Vasishta and obtained his blessings. Thereafter, they offered their pranams to King Dasaratha and happily partook of the sacred pudding. All the three queens became pregnant. In due course, Kausalya the eldest queen delivered a beautiful baby-boy who was named Rama. The Universal Atma embodied itself in the womb of Kausalya. He was named ‘Rama’, meaning he who makes one and all happy. Kaikeyi too gave birth to a son, who was named Bharatha. Sumitra, however gave birth to two sons named Lakshmana and Satrughna. Lakshmana was born out of the share of pudding given by Kausalya and Satrughna from that given by Kaikeyi. Hence, Lakshmana always followed Rama while Satrughna followed Bharatha. This is how the story unfolfed:

Sumitra’s two sons, Lakshmana and Satrughna, were crying all the time, day and night without even taking food. Sumitra could not bear the suffering of the infants. She went to sage Vasishta and explained to him of her predicament. Sage Vasishta closed his eyes and meditated for sometime. His yogic vision enabled him to realise the truth. He explained to Sumitra: “Since you partook of the sacred pudding given by Kausalya, you gave birth to Lakshmana who is an amsa (part) of Rama. Similarly, Satrughna is born out of the share of pudding given to you by Kaikeyi. So, he is a part of Bharatha. Put Lakshmana by the side of Rama and Satrughna by the side of Bharatha. Then, they will rest peacefully.” As soon as Sumitra acted accordingly, the babies became peaceful. As years passed, the four brothers grew up happily together.

Back to the story of the eagle taking away the bowl containing the sacred payasam kept by Sumitra on the parapet wall while drying her hair in the sun, it dropped the bowl on the ground in a mountainous region where Anjanadevi was meditating. She picked up the bowl and happily ate the sacred pudding. As a result, she gave birth to the great hero of Ramayana, namely, Hanuman. While Rama and Lakshmana were moving in the Rishyamuka mountain range during their search for Sita, Hanuman approached them on the orders of Sugriva, the Vanara king. After enquiring the purpose of their search, Hanuman took them to Sugriva and introduced them to him. He persuaded Rama to seek Sugriva’s friendship and help in their search for Sita. The vow of everlasting friendship was solemnised in the presence of a ritual fire. Sugriva then brought one bundle of jewels wrapped in a cloth which was thrown by Sita from the Pushpaka Vimana of Ravana that carried her to Lanka. Sugriva placed the bundle before Rama in order to identify and confirm that they belonged to Sita. Rama called Lakshmana to his side and directed him to identify the jewels. Lakshmana on seeing the jewels expressed his inability saying “Oh Rama, I seek your pardon; I do not know of any jewels that were worn by mother Sita. However, I can identify her anklets since I was prostrating at her feet daily to pay my obeisance to her”.

Undue Desires Bring Untold Miseries

During the stay of Rama and Sita in a hermitage built by Lakshmana in the Panchavati region, one day, at the behest of Ravana, Maricha the demon assumed the form of a golden deer and began moving about in the vicinity of the Ashram. Sita was fascinated by the charming golden deer and persuaded Rama to catch it and bring it to her so that she could play with it. Rama decided to oblige her as per the divine plan. However, he instructed Lakshmana to stay behind and guard the Ashram and Sita from the wily demons, during his absence. As Rama went in pursuit of the golden deer, it went deep into the forest. Finally, Rama lifted his bow and released a fatal arrow on the deer. Maricha in the guise of the golden deer at last fell dead in his real form. However, before he breathed his last, he cried in agony, in a feigned voice of Rama, “Ha! Sita, Ha! Lakshmana.” The cry fell on the ears of Sita and Lakshmana.

Sita, on hearing the cry implored Lakshmana to go in search of Rama immediately. Lakshmana counselled Sita that no danger could ever befall Rama and that this was all the plan of the wily demons. Sita was not convinced. She even used harsh words that hurt Lakshmana, while compelling him to go to the rescue of Rama. Of course, this too was as per the divine plan that would unfold itself in the future. Left with no other option, Lakshmana agreed to go in search of Rama. However, before he left the Ashram, he drew a line around the hermitage and asked Sita not to step out of that line under any circumstances till Rama and himself returned. As soon as Lakshmana left the hermitage in search of Rama, Ravana approached the Ashram in the guise of a rishi. He stood before the Ashram and asked for food saying “Bhavathi bhiksham dehi” (Oh Mother, give me food). Sita heard this and decided to provide him food. She brought the food from inside the Ashram and tried to give the same to Ravana standing behind the line drawn by Lakshmana. But, Ravana insisted that Sita should come closer across the line drawn by Lakshmana and offer the food to him. He pretended as though he could not bear the pangs of hunger anymore. Finally Sita obliged and came out of the line drawn by Lakshmana to give alms to Ravana. Just at that moment, Ravana assumed his real form, and abducted her in his chariot.

Ravana took Sita to Lanka and kept her in confinement under a tree in the Asokavana. Sita then lamented for her indiscreet act of becoming crazy about a golden deer and the consequences that followed. She lamented, “Oh! Why did that sinful animal (golden deer) come to the vicinity of our hermitage? Why did I develop a fascination for that golden deer? Why did I request Rama to catch that deer and bring it to me?” Of what use is all this repentance at this stage? She found herself in captivity in Lanka.

Ravana kept three ladies to guard Sita during her incarceration in the Asokavana. One was Sarama, the wife of Vibheeshana, younger brother of Ravana. The other two ladies were Ajata and Trijata, who were none other than daughters of Sarama. They were very considerate towards Sita, keeping up her sagging morale all the while by their comforting words. Sita wondered whether such good people also existed in Lanka. In fact, it was due to their consoling words and protection that Sita could bear her ordeal courageously. Though Sita was imprisoned in Lanka, Ravana did not dare to touch her. He knew that he would be reduced to ashes if he touched her without her consent. He was all the while pleading with her to accept him. When Ravana stooped to the level of denigrating Rama and threatened her, she without even looking at his face, plucked out a blade of grass and threw it before him saying, “You are a mean fellow. You are not worth even this blade of grass. How dare you denigrate Rama in front of me, you vile and vicious wretch”.

Sita had another name Vaidehi, meaning one who has no body attachment. King Janaka was her foster father. He lovingly brought her up and gave her in marriage to Rama. There are several inner and subtle meanings in the story of Ramayana. In fact, Sita was not the sister of Rama, as has been portrayed in some texts. If she were to be the sister of Rama, how could King Janaka offer her as bride to Rama? Unfortunately, people do not realise these inner meanings.

The Nobility Of Hanuman

Hanuman was a great hero in the story of Ramayana. He led an army of Vanaras in his holy mission of searching for the whereabouts of Sita, who was kept in captivity in Lanka by Ravana. He was a very intelligent and faithful servant of Rama. He was a person of noble qualities and great physical strength. In his noble qualities and might, he was unparalleled. In fact, one whole chapter, namely, Sundara Kanda was devoted to describe his qualities of head and heart, in the Ramayana. While he was embarking on his holy mission of finding out Sita in the city of Lanka, he was given certain identification clues about Sita. He was told that Sita was a woman of noble qualities and divine beauty and that she would not mix with the Rakshasa ladies. He searched for Sita in every nook and corner of Lanka, including the inner chambers of the palace where Ravana’s queens and the ladies attending on them stayed. During his search he came across ladies scantily dressed and fallen on their beds, intoxicated by drink and dance. But, he was totally unmoved by these obscene forms, keeping always in his mind the characteristics and excellence of Sita that Rama had described to him earlier. His supreme stability of mind in such an environment befitted his true Brahmachari (celibate) status. One cannot find parallels to Lord Rama and His noble servant Hanuman, in this world. They are both unique.

The boys just sang a beautiful bhajan “Rama Lakshmana Janaki, Jai bolo Hanuman ki”. During their singing, Hanuman’s name was mentioned after a little pause, indicating the importance of Hanuman. It is only when people like Hanuman are worshipped and their qualities emulated, one can cultivate good thoughts, good habits, good qualities and good behaviour. It is said, “The end of education is character”. It is only in Rama and Hanuman, such noble character is to be found. Hence, you constantly contemplate on Rama and Hanuman and their noble qualities. The different names like Rama, Krishna, Hanuman, Siva, Vishnu, etc. represent the one Divinity that is all pervading. God is one, the names and forms differ.

“Gold is one; ornaments differ.

Religions are many, Divinity is one,

The cows are many in colours;

but milk is the same.” (Telugu poem)

You Are Brahman

Similarly, God is one though He is referred to by different names and forms. Different people when asked to give their names, reply ‘I am Ramaiah’, ‘I am Lakshmaiah’, ‘I am Govindappa’, etc. But, the real answer should be ‘Aham Brahmasami’ (I am Brahma). There can be no other names. All are embodiments of the Divine Self. The atma has no gunas (qualities). It is formless and attributeless.

Nityanandam, Parama Sukhadam, Kevalam Jnanamurtim, Dwandwateetam, Gagana Sadrisham, Tattwamasyadi Lakshyam, Ekam, Nityam, Vimalam, Achalam, Sarvadhee Sakshibhutam, Bhavateetam, Trigunarahitam...

(The Atma is the embodiment of eternal bliss, wisdom absolute, beyond the pair of opposites, expansive and pervasive like the sky, the goal indicated by the ‘Mahavakya Tat twam asi’, one without a second, eternal, pure, unchanging, witness of all functions of the intellect, beyond all mental conditions and the three attributes of satwa, rajas and tamas).

(Sanskrit sloka)

Strictly speaking, God has no name or form in spite of the fact it is said ‘Daivam Manusharupena’ (God is in human form). He has no birth and no qualities. He is formless and attributeless. When someone asks ‘who are you?’, reply ‘I am God’. Names like Ramaiah, Lakshmaiah, etc., are only those given by your parents after your birth. In fact, you have no specific name. All are embodiments of the Divine Self. Whether you act the role of Ramaiah or Krishnaiah, you are essentially the same Divine Self. Only the roles differ. God is immanent in every human being, nay, every living being. He is the Atmaswarupa. “Ekatma Sarvabhutantaratma”. The one God is immanent in all human beings and all living beings. Names and forms may appear to be different. You must develop firm faith in the oneness of Divinity. Whomever you come across, offer your pranams to them. Pay your obeisance even to a beggar. He may be a ‘beggar’ as a physical entity, but he is ‘bigger’ as the embodiment of the Divine Self. Do not develop hatred toward any individual. Do not consider anyone as your enemy. In fact, they are all reflections of your own divine self. Everyone repeats ‘I’, ‘I’. Everyone claims ‘this is my body, my mind, my intellect and my chitta’. Then ‘who am I?’ That ‘I’ is Divinity, in essence. The same ‘I’ is referred to by several names. The symbol of Christianity, the cross (†) signifies cutting off of the individual ego (ahamkara). We say ‘I came here’; ‘I am going’; ‘I am coming’, etc. What is this ‘I’? It represents the one Divine Self. You have to develop that ‘Ekatmabhava’ (the feeling of one divine atma permeating the entire Universe). That is real devotion. Do not differentiate between ‘I’ and ‘you’. Those who desire to attain self realisation must shed this difference. They must get rid of the feeling of ‘I’ and ‘mine’. We are all one. “All are one, be alike to every one”. This is the essence of all philosophy. Be happy.

Srimad Ramayana Sudha Pravachano Saptaham, Prasanthi Nilayam 28.6.08

Undertake Rama Chintana

Undertake Rama Chintana

Undertake Rama Chintana

Undertake Rama Chintana

Undertake Rama Chintana

Undertake Rama Chintana

10

Develop Faith And Self-confidence To Gain Self-realisation

By what power of love the earth rotates without an axle,

By what power of love the stars remain in the sky without falling on the ground,

By what power of love the oceans confine to their limits without submerging the earth,

By what power of love the wind god blows cool breeze in all the worlds,

That mighty power of love is verily the Atmic power.

That power of love is most wonderful, infinite, unique and all pervasive.

The entire creation is saturated with love. (Telugu Poem)

Call it Prema (love) or Sathyam (truth)
or Aham (I) – all are God’s different names only! The Vedas declare “Aham Brahmasmi!” (I am Brahman). If God were to reveal His name, He would say “Aham Brahmasmi” (I am Brahman). That is His true name.

The entire creation is from Truth,

Into Truth the entire creation merges.

Is there a place in the Universe

Where truth is not present?

The whole Universe is a manifestation of pure consciousness.

Know this reality. (Telugu poem)

God is the source and sustenance of all activities in this world. The entire Universe moves according to His Divine will and command. Shivraj Patil made an in-depth study of the Bhagavad Gita for some months and grasped the essence of the Gita. Finally, he wrote a commentary on Bhagavad Gita in English. Several people write several books, but the Gita commentary written by Shivraj Patil is a unique work. Whenever he had an occasion to meet Swami, he used to show his work to Him, to check whether the interpretations given in the book were correct or not. In fact, the essence of Bhagavad Gita is contained in this small book. The Gita made a deep imprint on his mind and he beautifully recorded those impressions in his book.

God Alone Is The Real Guru

Today is Guru Purnima. What does it signify? People think that it is a day on which they offer some money to a guru, a mendicant or a yogi or a great person and obtain a mantra from him. It is not correct.

Gurur-Brahma Gurur-Vishnu Gurur Devo Maheswara,

Guru Sakshat Param Brahma Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha.

(Guru is Brahma, Guru is Vishnu, Guru is Maheswara. Guru is verily the supreme Brahman. So, salutations to the Guru.)

Who is a guru? The sloka mentioned above states that a Guru is verily Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the sustainer) and Maheswara (the destroyer). These are the different facets of God and hence Guru means God, verily. Purnima is the day on which the spotlessly clean and unblemished moon sheds his cool and steady light on the world. Whatever is said or taught with a pure heart is God’s own word. People celebrate Guru Purnima as a Guru puja day, the day on which they worship their guru and offer some money or presents in return for some mantra or other sacred words taught to them by him. In fact, one’s own heart is one’s Guru. Whatever comes from the depth of one’s own heart is the real teaching of Guru (Guru Vakya).

You all know the story of Ekalavya. He approached Dronacharya and prayed to teach archery. Dronacharya turned down his request saying that the sacred skills of archery must be taught to a valiant hero and not to a wandering tribal youth engaged in hunting animals. Ekalavya, however, considered Dronacharya as his Guru and installed him in his heart. Even though Dronacharya did not give any instructions to him, he went and made a clay image of his Guru and started worshipping it daily. He learnt all the skills of archery, constantly contemplating on Dronacharya as his Guru. He became an expert archer in no time.

The Unique Guru Bhakti Of Ekalavya

One day, the Kaurava and Pandava boys were playing, near a well. Dronacharya happened to pass that way along with his wife and son, Aswatthama. Observing that the young boys were going round and round the well making a big noise, Dronacharya went near them and enquired, “My dear boys, what are you searching for?” The boys said that they were actually playing with a ball and it had fallen into the well. Then, Dronacharya took out an arrow from his quiver and shot it into the well. It went straight and stuck to the ball. Next, he released some more arrows one after the other and with the help of the chain of arrows he pulled the ball out. The boys were wonderstruck at the skill of Dronacharya and reported the matter to their parents. Then Dronacharya was called to the royal court by Bhishmacharya and was made the Guru of Pandava and Kaurava boys to teach them archery.

One day, the Pandavas along with their Guru Dronacharya were going on a hunting expedition in a forest. They had taken some hunting dogs also along with them. Meanwhile one of the dogs started barking. Immediately, an arrow released by someone from somewhere came like a bullet and stuck to the mouth of the dog. When they started searching for the person who shot that arrow, they came across Ekalavya who confessed to shooting that arrow. Arjuna then realised that Ekalvaya employed the technique of ‘sabdabhedi’ (shooting an arrow at a target, sensing the direction from which the sound was coming). Arjuna became jealous at the extraordinary skill in archery of Ekalvaya, particularly his ability to use the technique of ‘Sabdabhedi’. Ekalavya prostrated before Dronacharya, whom he had considered as his guru. Arjuna, seething with anger and jealousy looked at Dronacharya and said, “You had promised me that you would not teach this technique of ‘Sabdabhedi’ to anyone except me. I implicity believed your words”. Dronacharya replied, ‘I am not the guru of Ekalavya nor did I teach this technique to him. You can ascertain the fact if you wish, from him.” Then Ekalavya was questioned. He replied, “It is true that Dronacharya refused to teach me archery. But, constantly contemplating on him, as my guru, I learnt archery including the sabdabhedi technique”. Ekalavya’s reply fanned the flames of jealousy in Arjuna. He wished that there should be none in the world who could excel him in the skills of archery. He wanted to subdue Ekalavya somehow and make him powerless. He therefore prompted Guru Dronacharya to ask for guru dakshina (an offering to Guru made by a disciple as a token of his gratitude for teaching skills) from Ekalavya. Bowing to the wishes of Arjuna, Dronacharya enquired of Ekalavya, “What guru dakshina you would offer to me?” Arjuna then made a subtle suggestion to Dronacharya saying, “Ekalavya informed just now that he had learnt the skills from you, treating you as his guru. Hence, it must be you again who should frustrate his efforts to excel in archery.” Dronacharya then asked for an unusual ‘guru dakshina’ from his ‘disciple’ Ekalavya, that is, the right thumb of Ekalavya should be offered to him.

Immediately, Ekalavya cut off his right thumb and offered it to Dronacharya as his guru dakshina.

As he has offered his right thumb to his Guru, he could no longer wield a bow in his hand. Thus, Ekalavya’s skill of archery was contained and Arjuna’s ego satisfied.

(Telugu poem)

Arjuna felt very happy, for he knew now that there was none who could excel him in archery, particularly in the technique of “sabdabhedi”. Right from that moment, Ekalavya never touched his bow and arrow. He did not at all feel sad for losing his skills in archery. On the other hand, he felt extremely happy that he could fulfil the wishes of his Guru. Thus, a great archer was permanently incapacitated due to the jealousy of another great archer. Arjuna moved about freely with puffed-up ego that he was invincible.

It is possible that sometimes the subtle meanings of some slokas of great texts like the Bhagavad Gita may be revealed to one by one’s own inner voice coming from his heart. In fact, that is the real teaching. Shivraj Patil, by his deep devotion could tap that inner source and translate Gita into other languages. That is the reason why his Bhagavad Gita translation has turned out to be a great work. The atma tatwa can be realised if only one could shed the feeling of ‘I’ and ‘Mine’. Today, many people make efforts to realise atma tatwa. But, their efforts do not succeed since they are unable to get rid of the feeling of ‘I’ and ‘Mine’. In fact, they are the obstacles to self-realisation. First and foremost, one has to remove the feeling of ‘I’ (ego). Then realisation will dawn on you. The religious symbol of Christianity (†) also denotes this cutting off of ego. The ego-centric assertion of ‘I’ is the root cause for all sorrows, unrest and difficulties. One has to realise this truth. The feeling of ‘mine’ has also to be shed. When a teacher develops a feeling “these are all my disciples”, ego will raise its head there also. Hence, the feeling of ‘I’ and ‘mine’ has to be removed. Then only atma tatwa can be realised.

Faith And Self-Confidence Will Lead One To Self-Realisation

Shivraj Patil has been coming to Swami since the last thirty years. He first had the darshan of Swami in the house of S.B.Chavan. Thereafter, they both used to visit Swami, together. Thereby, he developed intense devotion to Swami. In the meanwhile, Shivraj Patil became a Minister in the Government of Maharashtra. Thereafter, he moved to Delhi and became a Minister in the Central Government. He also held the position of Speaker of the Lok Sabha in Delhi. Thus, he came up in life with the grace of Swami and his own hard work and sincerity. He never aspired for any positions in life. Even when Swami enquired from him what he wanted, he used to evade a reply. He earned a very good name as a Minister in Government. They used to repose lot of confidence in him.

One has to develop faith and self-confidence. Self-confidence leads to self-satisfaction and self-sacrifice and ultimately to self-realisation. The Bhagavad Gita is a very sacred text. It is verily the breath of God. One has to develop faith first. Even a demon worships God. But, his actions are demonic. One can have peace only when one develops faith in God and dedicates all his actions to God. You may study any number of books and sacred texts. You may even lecture on them. But, that is of no use. Whatever you put into practice, only that will become part of you. There are three steps to self-realisation, namely, self-confidence, self-satisfaction and self-sacrifice. When these three go together, there will be purnatwa (fullness). That is Purnima (full-moon day) when the moon will be spotless, shedding cool light on the world. It is only when there is perfect accord between thought, word and deed, it becomes truth. Simply giving expression to one’s thoughts and lecturing on principles without putting them into practice will amount to an empty rhetoric. It will amount to falsehood. Such a person will not become a full individual. Shivraj Patil is not such a person. He experienced truth and gave expression to his thoughts in the form of a book. That is why his book earned reputation, giving him great satisfaction.

I expect all students to relate to their teachers what they have learnt from them. Mere book reading is of no use. There must be close interaction between the teachers and the students. Such an interaction would be like the positive and negative coming together. Students have to develop intimate relationship with their parents. They must love their parents and obey their command. Then only they will succeed in life.

The last sloka in the Bhagavad Gita reads

Yathra Yogeshwara Krishno Yatra

Partho Dhanurdharah

Tathra Srirvijayo Bhutir Dhruva Neetirmathir Mama.

(Sanskrit sloka)

(Where there is Krishna, the Lord of Yoga, and where there is Arjuna, armed with his mighty bow come together, there lie wealth, victory, glory and everlasting morality.) The essence of the Bhagavad Gita is contained in this one sloka.

Today, Shivraj Patil has brought out this beautiful and nectarous message for the benefit of one and all through his Bhagavad Gita translation. It is our good fortune to come across such noble works. People write several books on several subjects; but, books like this are rare. We see students going to the library and reading books stacked there. Some of them develop interest for spiritual books, while some others read novels. Some boys keep novels in between their text books or spiritual books and read them with absorbing interest. This is nothing but cheating others as well as themselves. It is not good. That is the reason why we thoughtfully avoided stacking such books in our library. I am sure our boys are not interested in such trash. Their hearts are pure and sacred. Our boys are generally good and well-behaved. But, due to the age, there will be some distractions now and then. They are like passing clouds. Students should develop enough mental strength to keep themselves away from such distractions.

I wish that our students should also write some good books on academic topics and spiritual subjects (Swami then called an ex-student by name Gowri Shankar, who is presently working as a faculty member in the Dept. of Physics in Sri Sathya Sai University and introduced him to the audience). This boy has been invited to Hungary to present a paper in an international conference being held there by the Institute of Nuclear Science. All his expenses for travel and stay in Hungary will be borne by the institute. This boy is well behaved and highly educated. I wish that all our students get such opportunities of being invited by other Institutions / Universities in India and abroad. I will be very happy to see you participating in such activities. I am sure your parents will also be happy. Whatever you have read and learnt must be shared with all.

Today you have witnessed the release of a book written by Shivraj Patil containing his impressions and commentary on Bhagavad Gita. No doubt, his book will be of interest to one and all.

Two of our students from the Anantapur campus secured very good marks in English and Physics, respectively. They have been invited to America, all expenses paid. Such academic excellence brings credit to our Institute. I am happy.

Guru Purnima, Prasanthi Nilayam,18-7-2008.

Develop Faith And Self-confidence To Gain Self-realisation

Develop Faith And Self-confidence To Gain Self-realisation

Develop Faith And Self-confidence To Gain Self-realisation

Develop Faith And Self-confidence To Gain Self-realisation

Develop Faith And Self-confidence To Gain Self-realisation

11

Develop Educare And Be United

Embodiments of Love!

I have nothing more to add to what has been told
to you by Michael Goldstein and All India President of Sri Sathya Seva Organisations, Srinivasan. Education is not a subject on which anybody and everybody should talk. Today, education has become more outward and worldly. There are millions and millions of people who have pursued such worldly education in India. In what way the society is benefited by such people? Everyone is concerned with his own selfish interest. There is none who cares for public interest and welfare. No one is bothered about how society is and in what condition it is, or what difficulties people are undergoing. When they speak in public they are highly rhetorical about helping the poor, but when it comes to action, they are nowhere near.

Shun the Feeling of I And Mine And Develop A Broader Outlook

You all know in what state the world is today. Wherever you turn, you see sorrow and suffering. Peace and happiness are not to be found anywhere. Every country claims progress and achievement in different areas. These claims are hollow in nature as peace and happiness cannot be found anywhere. If we enquire into the truth, every country is steeped in difficulties and is in some crisis or the other. No government makes a sincere effort to understand the difficulties faced by poor people. It is very difficult to determine who is poor and who is rich. All are ‘poor’ in one sense. Then who are the rich people? Those who put into practice what they say. It is said, “Manasyekam vachasyekam karmanyekam mahatmanam”. It means that those whose thoughts, words and deeds are in perfect accord are “mahatmas” (great souls). Such people are very rare. In fact, countries which are considered to be super powers, are causing great harm to the poorer countries. They do not even regret for their mistakes. They are unable to realise how the people of the underdeveloped and developing countries are suffering. For example, the people in Iraq underwent untold suffering. But, none cared to bother about their suffering. No doubt, in every country there are rich and poor people. Strangely, it is the rich people who are taken care of and provided with help. No one comes to the rescue of the poor people or provide succour to them. Hence, first and foremost, the poor and the downtrodden should be protected.

Every devotee must cultivate love and compassion. It is said, “Tyagenaike amrutathwamanasuh” (it is only by sacrifice that one can attain immortality). It is only a person with the quality of sacrifice who can experience bliss. Those with the ego-centric feeling of ‘I’ and ‘mine’ can never be happy in life. Where there is the feeling of ‘I’ there comes ego. Those who cultivate the feeling of ‘mine’ and ‘my people’ develop attachment. One should never develop the feeling that only my country should prosper. One should develop a broader outlook and pray, “Lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu” (May the whole world be happy!). Those who develop the narrow-minded feeling of ‘I’ and ‘mine’ undergo a lot of suffering. This is due to the secular education that they have acquired. Worldly education does not go beyond one’s own selfish interest. We should love all and serve all. Today the rich have lost the qualities of ‘papa bheeti’ and ‘daiva preeti’ (fear of sin and love for God). If only you cultivate these two qualities, you can achieve anything in life.

We must bring down our selfish interest to a greater extent. One has to gradually give up selfishness. We have to make full use of our education and energies for the benefit of the society. If there are no poor people, you cannot even be sure of your food; for it is they who toil in the fields and factories to produce the grains and goods for the consumption of people in the society. While the rich enjoy the comforts of life, the poor sweat to keep their body and soul together. Every individual in a society has his own rights, the right to live, etc. Hence, we must take care of the poor people also and provide them with certain basic necessities. For utilising their services, we must also serve them in return. Today those who are highly educated and those who are holding positions of power are steeped in utter selfishness. It is only they who exhibit mean mentality.

Human Beings Are Those Who Practise Human Values

Today, everyone wishes to fulfil one’s selfish interests at the cost of others. No one acts with a pure heart and good intention to help others. A human being is expected to have the qualities of Sathya (truth), Dharma (righteousness), Santi (peace), Prema (love) and Ahimsa (non-violence). Devoid of these qualities, he is not a human being at all. How can a person with demonic qualities be called a human being? Hence, first and foremost one has to cultivate human qualities. No one has a right to enjoy when his fellow-human being is suffering. All are God’s children only. To whomsoever you cause suffering, it will affect you. Hence, you have to conduct your life with devotion to God and love for all human beings. All should remain united. Where there is unity, there shall be purity. Where there is purity, there is divinity. You all have to lead your lives keeping in view these three aspects of unity, purity and divinity. You should not remain unconcerned with others’ difficulties and suffering. Treat their suffering as your own. The one God dwells in the hearts of all people. “Easwarah sarvabhutanam”. God is immanent even in ants and mosquitoes. There should be compassion in your heart. But, this has become a rare quality these days. Instead, we find ‘come-fashion’ everywhere. How can then equality prevail in society? Show at least an iota of humanity. He who has such a human quality will become a person with compassionate heart in the real sense. Lust, anger, hatred, jealousy, pride, etc., are animal qualities. The real wealth of a human being is noble qualities like love, compassion, righteousness, sacrifice and truth. It is only when a person has these human qualities that he can be considered a human being. Unfortunately, today people are human only in form, but qualities are those of animals. What is important is not the form, but qualities.

You cannot be sure when difficulties would confront you. Every action (karma) has its reaction, resound and reflection. If you hurt others, surely it will have its reaction. It is only when you recognise this truth and conduct yourself accordingly that you can be called a true human being. You talk to any student of our institutions, even primary school children will explain to you the human qualities very clearly. The human values have therefore to be cultivated right from childhood. The boys and girls should grow in human values. Even elders can learn from such students.

Truth Originates From One’s Own Heart

Now, about Truth. From where did Truth come? It has not sprouted from the earth nor has it descended from the sky. Its origin is not North, South, East or West. Truth is firmly installed in one’s own heart. If you develop your inner vision, you can surely recognise truth there. Where there is truth, there is righteousness. When truth and righteousness go together, love emerges from the heart. From love comes peace. When peace and love go hand in hand, non-violence reigns. We have to understand the inter-relationship between the five human values, namely, Truth, Righteousness, Peace, Love and Non-violence. All these human values are embedded in our own inner being.

A human being is God, verily. That is the reason why God is portrayed in human form. If God were to reveal His true identity, He would declare, “I am Brahman”. He would not say “I am so and so”. All the names of individuals are only those given to the human body by their parents. They are not God-given. God has given only one gift, that is atma. That is, “Mamatma Sarvabhutantaratma” (the one Divine Self permeates all beings). You can observe the ants. They move in a line up and down. While doing so, they greet each other happily. If a cow has given birth to a calf, it does not join the flock leaving the young calf alone. The cow recognises the cry of the calf, even from a distance. The calf cries “Amba! Amba! And the mother cow responds. Such is the relationship among animals and even in birds.

In the Ramayana story, a hunter saw two birds happily spending their time in each other’s company, perched on a tree. The hunter shot an arrow and killed the male bird. Unable to bear the separation from her beloved, the female bird also died soon thereafter. Sage Valmiki who witnessed this pathetic scene uttered a sloka, even without knowing it. It came spontaneously from his mouth. That soka (grief) became the inspiration for the great epic Ramayana. Thus, the birds and animals also love each other. How then can a human being lose such a noble quality of love? Today there are many things that a human being can learn from birds, animals and even beasts. But, the human being is least bothered to learn these lessons. I have been teaching many good things since decades, but you don’t listen. Even if you listen, you don’t put them into practice. If somebody abuses you, you feel sad. Don’t you know that he also feels in the same way when you abuse him? Praise or criticism, treat them all as part of the divine leela. When you develop such a sense of equanimity, you will come up in life.

Today, even rich people are crazy for money. But, they do not show the same enthusiasm for God. People have lost self-confidence, totally. “Where is Atma? What is Atma?” People ask hundred and one questions. They do not at all understand that the atma they were questioning about is very much immanent in them. People say, “This is my handkerchief”. It means ‘I’ is separate and ‘handkerchief’ is separate. Similarly, when you say ‘my body’, you are different from your body. What is this ‘my’? You say ‘this is mine’. But, who are you? You do not know the truth about yourself. When you know yourself, it amounts to knowing everything. If you do not know yourself, you cannot know others. Hence, sit calmly and peacefully in some corner and try to enquire into the nature of your own self. That is real dhyana (meditation). Meditation does not imply contemplating on God. Know about yourself, in the first instance. God is in you, with you, around you, above you and below you. YOU ARE GOD. Whenever someone enquires “Who are you?”, say “I am God”. Don’t say, “I am so and so.” How happy you will feel when you consider yourself as God! Even those who listen to your reply will feel happy.

Develop Inner Vision

Education does not mean simply imparting knowledge. We learn many things from the text books. But, we may not be able to understand their real meaning. First and foremost, enquire into yourself “Who am I? Who am I? Who am I?” Then you will get the real answer. Are you the mind? Or intellect? Or chitta? Or ego? Or body? You are none of these. No doubt the body, mind, intellect, etc., are all gifts of God. You have, of course, to respect them and value them. It is not enough if you read various texts and feel happy and contented that you have gained vast knowledge. Yesterday, one boy came to me and informed, “Swami, I have completed parayana of Sri Shirdi Sai Satcharitra.” When I enquired whether he had read the book fully, he replied that he had completely read the book without leaving a single letter. Then I enquired, “How many teachings of Baba contained in that book are you practising?” He replied, “None, Swami,” Then, what for is this reading? For turning pages? Not at all. There should be a transformation in your heart. Then only your parayana (reading of sacred texts) will be sanctified.

Devotees undertake several kinds of sadhana. But, they are not sadhana in the real sense. If you wish to see ‘reality’, you have to develop an inner vision. If you open your eyes and see the outside world, you will see a number of heads. On the other hand, close your eyes and look into yourself. Then you will see none but yourself. Hence, develop an inner vision. You enquire into yourself “Who am I?” Immediately reply comes from within “I am I”. That is the correct answer. People say “I am so and so; I am an American,” etc. These are not the real answers to the question “Who am I?” These are all outward names for identification in the external world. They are not important. What is important is self-enquiry. Then you will realise the Truth.

Goldstein and Srinivasan who spoke earlier eulogised education. What they said related to worldly education. I do not agree. It should relate to you. Then only the concept of ‘I am I” can be realised. Tomorrow, I will provide answers to some of your questions that bother you in your daily life. I am sure very soon you will realise Divinity. I do not wish to speak about modern education. That everybody will do. Reading books and gaining worldly knowledge is not great. This is only bookish knowledge. You must gain knowledge of your own self (inner being). That is real knowledge. That is changeless and eternal. Truth is only one, not two. Truth is God. Righteousness is God. Peace is God. Love is God. Know this. “Love is God; live in love”. If you cultivate such selfless and divine love, you can achieve everything in life. “God is one; goal is one”. If you develop firm faith in this maxim, you can understand everything. Your experiences and enjoyment in this material world are not important. They are not true. Behind these momentary experiences, there are some eternal values to be cultivated, some human qualities to be developed. These values and qualities have to manifest from within, not in the outside world. That is Educare. Educare means bringing out the latent qualities and values from the core of our inner being. The books you read in the outside world relate to education. But, this is ‘Educare’. What is needed today is ‘Educare’. If people develop ‘Educare’, all will be united.

Take it from Me – in about 25 to 30 years’ time the entire world will become one. There will be only one caste, one religion, and one God. What is needed is such unity. Today, there are several differences between individuals on the basis of caste, creed, religion, language, nation, etc. Such differences should disappear and unity should prevail. The Veda has emphasised this unity in the declaration “Ekam Sath viprah bahudha vadanti” (Truth is one, the wise say it in different ways). That is the real world we are visualising.

Today, I have spoken at length taking a lot of time. Tomorrow I will clarify all your doubts leisurely.

Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference,

Prasanthi Nilayam.20-7-2008

Develop Educare And Be United

Develop Educare And Be United

Develop Educare And Be United

Develop Educare And Be United

Develop Educare And Be United

Henceforth, develop universal love and dedicate yourself to the service of society. Life is constantly ebbing away. To utilise all your resources for the good of others is the way to experience real bliss. Whatever may have been your lapses in the past, begin a new life of dedication and devotion from today. Make the best use of the sacred atmosphere prevailing in the Ashram and engage yourself in sadhana (spiritual practices) and service to the people around you.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

12

Ideal Parents Have Ideal Children

Modern education leads only to argumentation, not to total wisdom. What is the use of acquiring education which cannot lead you to immortality? Acquire the knowledge that will make you immortal.

(Telugu Poem)

In spite of his education and intelligence, a foolish man will not know his true Self and a mean-minded person will not give up his evil qualities.

(Telugu poem)

You may acquire as high an education as you
can, but if you do not put it into practice, it is of no use. You may earn any number of degrees or titles, but they do not make you a truly learned person. All your learning is flawed if what you practise is different from what you have learnt. Therefore, put into practice what you learn.

A Teacher Should Be A Role Model In Human Values

A mean-minded person does not give up his evil qualities in spite of his high education. These so-called highly educated persons are, in fact, much more ignorant than those who are illiterate. Unfortunately, children today imitate and follow such ‘highly educated’ persons. (After this, Bhagawan answered the questions of the delegates to Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference 2008.)

The first question: What type of relationship should students have with God?

God is not separate from you. He is not outside. He is very much within you. Therefore, you should develop a relationship of love and oneness with God. If God were separate from you, you could form a mundane relationship with Him. But He is not separate from you. He is with you, in you, around you and behind you (loud applause). You cannot have worldly relationship with God who is all-pervasive. You should strengthen the feeling ‘God is in me’ and develop oneness with Him. This is the answer to the first question.

The second question: What are the signs of spiritual transformation?

You should examine yourself whether you are leading your life with worldly feelings or with wholehearted faith in God. You should have the firm conviction that you are equal-minded in both pleasure and pain. There are no special signs of spiritual transformation. But, at times, you may have certain spiritual dreams and visions. You should enquire yourself whether you are progressing or declining in your devotion. Everything depends upon your faith. Other than this, there are no special signs.

The third question: What should be the qualities of a teacher in the Sai System of Education?

The teacher should not give too much freedom to the students. He should exercise control over them with loving and convincing words. He should not allow them to act in an arbitrary way just because they are his students. He should give them freedom in a measured manner, but in between he should apply brakes. He should also punish them whenever it is necessary. He should not punish just for the sake of punishment. He should use punishment only as a deterrent.

The fourth question: How should a teacher conduct himself in this system of education and what sort of discipline should he observe? What efforts should a teacher make to become a role model in human values?

This is another question that has been asked. This is a very important subject. A teacher should conduct himself like a teacher. Similarly, a student should behave like a student. The teacher should take care that proper learning environment is provided in the classroom and the students are happy and satisfied.

When the teacher behaves with the students in an ideal manner, the students will also follow him. What you want your students to do, you should show them by your own example. Not only that, the teacher should eat the same food that he advises the students to eat. If the teacher asks the students not to eat fish and meat and himself eats all these things, it is very bad. Whatever you tell your students, you should first practise yourself. Whatever you want your students to become, first you should become yourself. You should not act in an arbitrary way with the pride that you are a teacher. You should be humble, caring and full of love when you are dealing with your students.

The next question is: How should teachers behave with girl students?

If there are only boys in the classroom, it is okay. But if there are girl students also, the teacher should behave in a much more refined and disciplined manner. Consider all the girl students as your sisters. Make them happy and treat them with respect as you do with your own sister. Only then can you inculcate virtues in them. In this way, you should lead an ideal life and become a role model for others.

Children Should Make Their Parents Happy

How should the parents impart human values to their children and how can we involve the parents in the education of their children?

Parents should never discuss family matters in the presence of their children. They may be having financial and other problems, but they should not let their children know about them. They should deal with their problems themselves, try to keep the children as happy as they can and work for their progress.

First and foremost, the parents should put the human values into practice in their own life and then encourage their children to develop these values. The parents should guide their children on the right path by their own example. At the same time, the children should not cause any trouble to their parents. Their parents bring them up with great expectations. The children should develop the understanding that they have made progress in life only due to the sacrifice of their parents and hence should show gratitude to them. Howsoever great may be the difficulties that the parents have to undergo, they hide them from their children in order to make them happy. In such a situation, if the children cause even a little trouble to their parents, they will be totally dejected.

Set your life on a course that gives happiness to your parents. Even if you have your own family, see to it that your parents do not suffer in any way. You should not ignore your parents, thinking, “My family should be happy, why bother about the parents?” This is not good. Only an illiterate fool will behave like that; no educated person will act in this manner. From time to time, you should go to your parents, serve them, make them happy and try to fulfil their needs. Giving happiness to parents is the main duty of the children.

But some children associate themselves with bad company and acquire evil qualities. Man is known by the company he keeps. That is why it is said, “Tell me your company I shall tell you what you are”. Therefore, never associate with bad company. You should look after the needs of your parents carefully. Those who do not look after their parents should be condemned. Differences between parents and children are on the rise in today’s world. The tastes of the children are different from the expectations of the parents. If you merely pursue your own tastes, then what about your parents? You have every right to satisfy your tastes provided you fulfil the needs of your parents. It is sheer selfishness to work merely for your own satisfaction and cause grief to your parents. Children should not resort to this type of behaviour. You have your mother-in-law and father-in-law after your marriage. But from your very birth, you have lived with your parents. Therefore, it is your duty to make your parents happy. The children should always pray for the welfare of their parents and discharge their duty towards them. Moreover, you should not interfere in the affairs of others unnecessarily. Before enquiring about others, you should enquire about your parents and try to know their wishes. Parents should also educate their children in this regard. If you pay all your attention to your in-laws and forget the parents with whom you had a long association, that amounts to selfishness and deception. It is due to the rise of selfishness that there is a lack of happy and cordial relationship between parents and children today. However, such selfish children are in minority. Hence, there is no need to worry too much about it.

Parents Should Inculcate Human Values In Children

Whatever the parents tell their children to follow, they should themselves adhere to it. Then only will their children become good. Due to the effect of modern times, some children try to keep distance from their parents thereby causing them to develop tension and bad temper. But you should control your temper. It is a great mistake if you show your temper to your parents who always wish for your welfare. You should show gratitude to your parents, to God and to all those who have helped you. You should never do anything due to which your parents may shed tears. When you make your parents happy, you will also be happy.

Bal Vikas is very necessary for children because the children learn human values in the Bal Vikas class. But, first of all, parents should themselves develop human values. Then only will they have the right to teach human values to their children. When you do not practise yourself and merely tell the children to follow, then how would they listen? Whatever you tell the children, you should demonstrate by your own example. But you say, you don’t have time and you are busy with your office work. When you pay all your attention to your office work, who will look after the children? I have written a poem in this regard.

When husband and wife go out to office, who will do the household work?

If women go out to teach others’ children in schools, who will teach their own children?

If women also go to work just like men, who will cook food in the kitchen?

Earning money may solve some financial problems, but how will it resolve domestic problems?

Women can work and earn money but they cannot lead a happy life if they neglect their home.

(Telugu poem)

Educated women want to take up jobs. But if women go for jobs, who will do the household work? When both husband and wife go to office for work, then who will look after the children? Some people employ an ayah (female servant) to look after their children. But can an ayah look after the children with love like a mother? No, it cannot be so. Therefore, mothers should themselves look after their children even at the cost of their jobs. If women also go to office like men, then who will cook food in the house? Here is a small example. Both husband and wife phone from their office to their cook that they would come home at 5 o’clock and therefore he should keep tea ready. But, have they provided the required articles for the preparation of tea? No. For the preparation of tea, milk, sugar and tea leaves are required. Without these articles, how can anybody prepare tea? Besides that, cups and saucers are also required. In the absence of all these, if you ask the cook to prepare tea, how can he do so? In this way, you will lose respect before the invited guests. First of all, you should set right your house, then only should you pay attention to the outside work.

There is nothing wrong if both husband and wife go to work. But they should make sure that the children are not put to any inconvenience in the house. If you leave your children to the care of the ayah and the cook and go to work just to earn more money, then what is the use? It is of no use because you will have to pay salary to both the ayah and the cook. Not only that, you will lose so many articles in the house. Then, what is left with you out of your earning? When you yourself look after the children, you save that much money. But the parents do not give importance to this. Sometimes, even cups are not available in the house for drinking coffee. In such a situation, what is the use of women taking up jobs outside? Nowadays people are crazy for jobs but they do not care whether necessary comforts and conveniences are there in the house or not. As soon as the husband and wife return from office, they engage themselves in reading newspapers, listening to radio and seeing TV programmes. There are some who do not come home but straightaway go from office to clubs where they play some cheap games. How can such people bring up their children in an ideal manner? If the children are not doing well in studies, it is not their fault; it is the fault of their parents. Therefore, women should remain at home and look after their children in a proper way. That is your real income. If you lose that real income and strive to earn some money by working outside, spoiling your children in the process, you will be termed as selfish parents. When your children take to bad ways, you will have to undergo a lot of suffering. It is the main responsibility of parents to look after their children properly.

You should practise human values in your profession and at your workplace. Human values are not separate from day-to-day life. You may be a police officer or a nurse or a doctor or in any other profession. You should perform your duty sincerely. Then everything will become good. But, unfortunately, people do not perform their duty honestly. Consequently, children have to suffer entirely due to the fault of elders. You should engage yourself in good and honest work. Only then can your children attain progress and happiness.

Parents Should Keep A Watch On Their Children

Sai schools can have a corpus fund for their maintenance. They can take the help of parents in running the school. Such mutual cooperation between the school and parents should be developed. Discipline, devotion and duty should be given utmost importance in these schools. Teaching of human values should find a prominent place in the school curriculum. Put the children on the spiritual path so that they develop love for God. If they want to put on an improper dress, they should not be allowed to do so. You should observe moderation in everything. Only then can the children be kept in check. It is the responsibility of parents to keep a check on their children. Parents should be made aware of the Sai System of Education. Some of the parents may not be aware of this system. The children can also explain the various aspects of this system to their parents. Only then will the parents understand it clearly. Otherwise, they may have some doubts regarding what is being taught in the school to their children.

Sometimes, the children out of fear may not tell their parents everything correctly. Therefore, the parents should go to the school at least once a week and check whether what the child is telling is correct or not. The parents should go to school without the knowledge of their children and try to know the facts personally. They should also try to enquire about the studies and behaviour of their children. Some children may tell their parents that they have secured 50 marks, when actually they got only 20 marks. Some parents blindly believe what their child tells them and they do not go to the school to check the correctness of the child’s statement. I am not saying anything about schools in other countries, but this is a common practice in India. Only in villages we find the parents taking proper care of their children to inculcate necessary discipline in them. Whenever it is necessary, they punish their children and put them on the right path. But in towns and cities, the parents, particularly those in the higher strata of society, do not pay much attention to their children. In fact, it is only they who are supposed to be more vigilant.

When children have time, they should sit quietly and study. But many of them roam in the bazaars. This is not good. Students should not loiter in the streets at all. Only stupids roam in the streets. They behave like street dogs. The students who want to maintain their honour and dignity should sit calmly in the house and engage themselves in studies. The parents should check their children to see that they do not spend money in an arbitrary manner. They should tell them what is right and what is wrong and make them understand that spending money lavishly is not good. In this manner, the parents should teach them what is good and put them on the right path. There should be harmony between the parents and children at home. What is the use if there is no harmony at home? The parents do not pay heed to their children and the children do not listen to their parents. This should not happen. They should discuss among themselves what is right and what is wrong and maintain harmony in the house.

More importantly, the parents should be vigilant with regard to the studies of their children. They should know about the types of books they are reading. Some children keep cheap novels in their textbooks and read them. When we see from a distance, we think they are reading their textbooks. But it is not a textbook but a novel of bad taste! Only when we keep a watch on the children will they come up in life. We should throw such books away as soon as we see them. There is not even one such book in our library (loud applause). If somebody brings such books, they are immediately destroyed. If you follow this practice in your home also, then your children will become good. We should look after the children carefully and strive for their progress in this manner.

Observe Ceiling On Your Desires

Don’t waste money, Don’t waste energy, Don’t waste food and Don’t waste time. This is what is meant by ceiling on desires. It is only when we ourselves practise ceiling on desires can we keep our children in check. But today neither the elders nor the children observe ceiling on desires. Many of the elders do not even know what is meant by ceiling on desires. Only in India, we find some people practising this. But in other countries like America, people do not practise this. In fact, they waste a lot of food and money. They spend so many dollars even on one dinner party. They should observe certain limits. They should feed those who are in need. Ceiling on desires is very important as it can help man to progress in life. Misuse of money is evil. Waste of food is bad. If you waste money, you may have to face many difficulties. Do not throw away the food which is left after you have eaten. Better you give it to someone who is hungry. Unfortunately, people throw away the food instead of giving it to those who are hungry. Ceiling is necessary in every aspect of life. Even in talking, we should observe ceiling and should not talk too much. Then, we will experience immense happiness. If you make someone happy by giving food to him, your happiness will also become double.

Nobody should waste anything. Time waste is life waste. By wasting time, we waste our life. We should also not waste money. What is the use of wasting money? Misuse of money is evil. Therefore, never misuse money. Spend only when it is necessary. Is it proper for you to spend money unnecessarily only because your pocket is full? Is it not a mistake? In this manner, many people waste money. Those who get fat salaries spend money in an arbitrary way. When you lead your life in such a lavish manner, low income people like sweeper and milkman will also try to imitate you and ask for more salary. We should not set a bad ideal to others. We should follow the path which is beneficial to all. When you have too much money, you don’t mind wasting it. But do not spend money like that. You should think before spending, whether you are making proper or improper use of money.

With this, all your questions are answered. Lead your life very carefully. Even a small mistake can be blown up by others in society. Therefore, do not make even a small mistake. Conduct yourself in this careful manner.

– Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference, Prasanthi Nilayam, 21-7-2008.

Ideal Parents Have Ideal Children

Ideal Parents Have Ideal Children

Ideal Parents Have Ideal Children

Ideal Parents Have Ideal Children

Ideal Parents Have Ideal Children

Ideal Parents Have Ideal Children

Ideal Parents Have Ideal Children

13

Love Is Truth; Truth Is Love. Live In Love

All the names and forms are but the manifestations of the Supreme Being who is Existence-Knowledge-Bliss Absolute and non-dual. He is the embodiment of Sathyam, Sivam, Sundaram (Truth, Goodness, Beauty).

(Sanskrit verse)

Embodiments of Love!

DURING the last two days, you attended the
conference and listened to the speakers sitting here in this Hall, undergoing all inconveniences. It is really your good fortune that you could come here from far off countries and participate in this conference. You have come here spending a lot of money and undergoing great strain. This in itself is a testimony to the purity of your heart. There are millions of people in this world. There are lakhs of schools and colleges. But only a few of you are blessed with the opportunity of coming here. You can imagine how fortunate you are!

The Educated Must Manifest Human Values

Having come here and participated in this conference, what is it that you are supposed to learn? First of all, you must understand the nature of your own heart and manifest human values, namely, truth, righteousness, peace, love and non-violence. Only then can you be called educated in the true sense of the term. There are many lawyers in this world who study voluminous books. In spite of their learning, we find many ‘liars’ among them. There are many doctors. But what is the use? They are getting bogged down with professional rivalry. We cannot find unity anywhere. First and foremost, we have to develop unity.

All of us are the children of God. We are all brothers and sisters. We should preserve this truth in our heart. At times, there may be some differences among brothers and sisters. Therefore, we must learn to adjust with each other. Not only that, we must understand each other in the first instance. Adjustment becomes easy when we have proper understanding. There cannot be any adjustment without proper understanding. Firstly, you must understand that whatever Swami teaches is only out of His love for you.

There is great progress in the field of science today. All the inventions of the scientists are within the purview of senses. In fact, many scientists are acting in a senseless manner and committing mistakes. Scientists themselves are not sure of what they are saying and doing. They say they are helping society but in fact they are doing just the opposite. Help never, hurt ever – this seems to be their motto. As a result, man today is leading his life with fear and anxiety. When you board an aeroplane, you are not sure whether you will reach the destination safely. People are in the grip of fear. They are afraid of even rats!

We should never be afraid of anything. Don’t fear. Fear is the root cause of anxiety and delusion. People today are afraid to eat even fruits and vegetables because they are grown with the help of chemicals which are harmful to health. The food we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe are all polluted. How can we lead a healthy life in such a polluted environment? We should therefore make our lives pollution free. We have to do it ourselves. Merely for the sake of satisfying our taste buds, we should not eat junk food and spoil our health. When you take proper care of your health, the children born to you will also be healthy.

Always speak the truth. Apart from speaking truth, you should remain calm and composed in the face of criticism. Only then can there be peace. Our ancient rishis used to observe silence as part of their spiritual sadhana. Observance of silence helps you to progress on the spiritual path. When you practise silence, you can easily experience peace of mind. Love manifests from peace. When you are filled with love, you will have no enemies. Therefore, lead your life with love. Only through love can we establish peace in the world.

Today people talk of peace but we find only pieces everywhere. Even the country is being divided into pieces! What I mean to say is people are keeping the interests of their regions above the national interest. We should stand united as a country. When someone asks you, ‘Where do you come from?” you should proudly say that you belong to India. Do not say you belong to Puttaparthi, Anantapur district, etc. Only those with a narrow mind will give such an answer. “I come from India,” this should be your answer. Similarly, one should not say that he comes from California, which is only a small part of America. One should say that he comes from America. Always be broadminded in your thinking. It is your good fortune to be endowed with such a broad mind. When you develop broadmindedness, your children also will be broadminded.

Parents Should Lead An Exemplary Life

Parents should enrol their children in Bal Vikas classes and impart sacred teachings to them. As are the parents, so are the children. Therefore, parents should tread the right path and set an ideal so that their children can emulate them. The fault lies in the parents if the children do not behave properly. Hence, parents should take utmost care in bringing up their children. After a certain age, children do not obey their parents. The reason being parents themselves do not follow the right path. Parents should lead an exemplary life if they want their children to be good and come up in life. There should be no difference of opinion between the father and the mother. They should be united in whatever they tell their children. In some families, mother says one thing and father says something else. Such lack of unity and understanding between the parents is not a good sign. Both of them must stand on one word and teach their children the right path. First of all, they should teach their children to adhere to truth. It is enough if we follow the path of truth, because truth is the basis of everything.

Sathyannasti paro Dharma (There is no Dharma greater than adherence to truth). Peace originates from righteousness and love manifests from peace. Where there is love, there is non- violence and everyone can lead a peaceful life. If the nation has to attain peace and prosperity, we should follow the path of truth. What is truth? “Manasyekam vachasyekam karmanyekam mahatmanam” (He is a noble soul whose thoughts, words and deeds are in harmony). If your thought, word and deed are at variance, it amounts to falsehood. Before we teach our children to adhere to truth, we should practise truth in our daily life. Only then can the children emulate us and become ideal.

We should lead a ‘heartful life’, not an artificial life. Today, right from the system of education, everything has become artificial. People read a number of sacred texts, chant mantras and undertake meditation. But all this is done in an artificial manner. Whatever may be the spiritual practice we undertake, we should do it whole- heartedly. In the name of meditation, people close their eyes and sit cross- legged, but they have no control over their mind. Their mind goes everywhere as per its whims and fancies. Therefore, we should control our mind in the first instance. Manah eva manushyanam karanam bandhamokshayo (mind is the cause of bondage and liberation of man). As is the thought, so is the action. Hence, we should entertain only good thoughts, which lead to good actions and ultimately yield good results. Do not follow the vagaries of the mind. Do not be under the control of the mind. The mind should be under your control. Mind is like a mad monkey. It goes everywhere without any restraint. But it becomes quiet and subdued when it is turned towards God. When the sun rises, our shadow is very long. If we start walking towards the sun, our shadow will fall behind us. On the other hand if we walk in the opposite direction with our back towards the sun, we have to follow our shadow which falls ahead of us. When the sun is right on our head, the shadow will fall under our feet. Maya (delusion) is like our shadow. In order to conquer Maya, you have to turn your mind towards God. When your mind is directly focused on God, maya will be totally subdued like the shadow under your feet.

Keep Your Mind Focused On God

There are three hands in the clock indicating seconds, minutes and hours. The second hand is the longest and moves quicker than the other two. When the second hand completes sixty digits, the minute hand moves forward by one digit. Similarly, when the minute hand crosses sixty digits, the hour hand crosses one digit. However, it is the hour hand that is most important. Thinking of God once in a while and spending the rest of the time in worldly pursuits is like the second hand which has little significance. But constant contemplation of God at all times is like the hour hand which is most important.

You should not act as per the vagaries of your mind. As I have mentioned earlier, mind can cause liberation or bondage. Therefore, you have to exercise control over your mind and turn it in the right direction, i.e., towards truth and love. Then it becomes steady and attains the power of concentration. Love is truth and truth is love. Live in love. This is not physical and worldly love. We should preserve spiritual love in our heart. Only then can we develop steadiness of mind. Worldly love will only make our mind fickle and unsteady. Therefore, keep your mind always focused on God. Only then can you experience peace. People think it is very difficult, but let Me tell you that there is no sadhana easier than this.

When we develop love for God, mind can be controlled very easily. On the other hand, if the mind is not turned towards God, it can never be controlled. Whatever you do, consider it as God’s work. Everything happens as per the Will of God. Do not be under the delusion that your will alone can make things move. If that be the case, why are you not able to exercise any control over certain events that take place in your life? Understand that everything moves as per the Divine Will. If something good happens to you, consider it as the will of God. If something bad were to happen, accept that also as the will of God. There is certainly some purpose behind whatever He does which you cannot comprehend. Whatever He does is for your own good. Hence, leave everything to His will. Sukhadukhe samekruthwa labhalabhau jayajayau (one should remain equal-minded in happiness and sorrow, gain and loss, victory and defeat). Whatever may happen, consider it as an act of divine love and welcome it wholeheartedly.

When you get immersed in the divine love, you will be successful in all your endeavours. But today people are getting immersed in worldly love only. One who develops worldly love is a liar! Only divine love can be termed as true love. Divine love will never betray you. Let people think what they like, let them criticise you in any manner, but you should always remain firmly established in divine love. Under any circumstances, do not deviate from the path of divine love. When you preserve divine love in your heart, your future as well as the future of your children will be safe and secure.

When someone asks you, “Who are you?”, you are unable to give correct reply. You identify yourself with the physical body. But in fact, physical body is like a leather bag which contains various entities such as the mind, intellect, chitta, etc. Once the life principle ebbs away from the body, it becomes an ‘empty bag’ which is of no use to us. Hence, we put it in fire and reduce it to ashes. Before the body becomes an ‘empty bag’ and is burnt to ashes, you should offer to God all that is contained in it and redeem your life.

Eliminate The Bad In You And Establish Direct Contact With God

First of all, you should give up the bad qualities such as kama, krodha, lobha, moha, mada, matsarya (Lust, anger, greed, infatuation, pride, jealousy). They can cause you only misery, not happiness. You can see for yourself how blissful you become when you get rid of these evil qualities. In order to experience such eternal bliss, offer to God all that is in you. You have a number of desires. But is it possible to get all your desires fulfilled? No. Never cause harm to others in the process of fulfilment of your desires. If you desire something, pray to God and ask Him directly. Establish direct contact with Him. If you follow ‘indirect’ methods, you will be put to untold misery. But today people are trying to harm others in order to satisfy their own greed. Such people are bound to reap the consequences of their evil deeds. Long ago during the independence movement, I composed a song picturising a scene where an infant was crying and his mother was consoling him with an assurance that everything will be alright and there is nothing to worry about the fate of the country. I sang it on the stage, placing a rubber doll in a cradle and rocking it gently.

Do not cry, my child, do not cry.

If you cry, you will not be called a valiant son of Bharat.

Go to sleep, my child, go to sleep.

Did you get scared because the terrible Hitler has invaded the invincible Russia?

Go to sleep, my child, go to sleep.

Do not cry my child, do not cry.

For the Red Army is marching under Stalin.

They will put an end to Hitler.

Then what else is the reason for your crying?

Is it because the countrymen lack unity?

All the countrymen will unite and fight to win freedom;

Go to sleep, my child, go to sleep.

(Telugu song)

Maintain A Noble Character Suffused With Love

Today you have gathered here in such large numbers. Have we sent any invitation letter to any of you? No, no. It is only love that has brought you here (applause). It is only love that can unite everybody, not hatred. When your love and My love come together, any task can be achieved. Hence, develop love. With the power of love, you can win over anybody, even a mighty rakshasa can be subdued. When Ravana abducted Sita, Hanuman went to Lanka in search of her. He found her in Asoka grove, sitting under a tree and chanting the name of Rama. She had firm faith that only Rama could protect her from the clutches of the rakshasas. In spite of all his learning, valour and wealth, Ravana was as insignificant as a blade of grass when compared to Rama, because he lacked character. Rama was one of noble character. If one is endowed with noble character, one can achieve any mighty task. That is why I often tell our students that the end of education is character. What is the use of all your education if you lack character? Some of the lawyers keep reading a number of books day and night. But, when they go to the court, they speak only untruth. Greatness does not lie in reading books. The truth that the books teach should be preserved in our heart. We must develop good character. Then we will certainly achieve success in all that we do.

Once you go back home, remember all that Swami has taught you and develop good character among your children. Develop a spirit of sacrifice and sanctify your life with noble deeds. What is the use of merely amassing wealth? Alexander, the great emperor, conquered different parts of the world and came to India with a desire to conquer this country too. On his return journey, he suffered a grave illness. Sensing that his end had approached, he called all his ministers and generals and told them that he was not going to live any more. He instructed them to take his body to his country after his death. He further told them to expose his hands out of the bier with his palms turned upwards and take the funeral procession to all the streets of the city. This was to tell the people of the world that in spite of his great conquests in the world and a great name and fame, Alexander left the world empty-handed. This is true to all of us. Whatever we may accumulate, we have to go empty-handed only. In the ultimate analysis, all the worldly possessions are useless. Our bank balance will not follow us when we leave this world. Therefore, utilise your wealth for the benefit of the poor and the needy with a spirit of sacrifice. When you spend your life in such a sacred manner, you will certainly be redeemed.

Valedictory Address,

Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference,

22-7-2008, Prasanthi Nilayam.

Love Is Truth; Truth Is Love. Live In Love

Love Is Truth; Truth Is Love. Live In Love

Love Is Truth; Truth Is Love. Live In Love

Love Is Truth; Truth Is Love. Live In Love

Love Is Truth; Truth Is Love. Live In Love

14

Educare Leads To Unity Of Thought, Word And Deed

This land of Bharat is the motherland for great people who acquired name and fame in different continents;

This land of Bharat is the battlefield where the warriors of foreign countries were driven out and freedom from foreign rule obtained;

The sweetest feeling of this land of Bharat is the feeling of motherhood.

Consigning to flames the moral fabric of our country that ordains self-respect as more valuable than one’s own life,

The dagger of unrestrained freedom has been given to the people today imitating the western countries;

Just as an elephant that is unable to realise its own strength,

So are the Bharatiyas today.

(Telugu poem)

THE elephant, not knowing its own inherent
strength, meekly submits itself to the mahout and obeys his commands. Similarly, man, unable to realise his own divine nature, submits himself to the world and its attractions and in the process encounters several difficulties. He is unable to bear even a little inconvenience. When someone is transferred to a new place, he feels diffident to take up the new assignment. If his son or daughter falls sick, he is filled with anxiety. He is living in the grip of fear. He is unable to realise his own strength.

Education Is For Life Not For A Living

The reason for this fear complex is modern education. It does not develop self-confidence and self-reliance. Modern education teaches you how to make a living in the outside world. You may earn money and make a comfortable living by providing all sorts of conveniences to the ephemeral physical body, with the help of modern education. But, you cannot have peace of mind. You may enjoy worldly pleasures with money, but spiritual bliss cannot be attained with wealth. Hence, one should never forget spirituality under any circumstances. It is only spiritual life that can confer peace and happiness. It is said “Bhajana bina sukha santi nahi…..” Peace and happiness can be attained only by singing the glory of the Divine and not by wealth or worldly possessions. Worldly education aims at providing physical comforts only.

In spite of his education and intelligence, a foolish man will not know his true Self and a mean-minded person will not give up his evil qualities. (Telugu poem)

Modern education leads only to argumentation, not to total wisdom. What is the use of acquiring education which cannot lead you to immortality? Acquire that knowledge which will make you immortal.

(Telugu poem)

What is the use of pursuing such type of education? A human being needs to cultivate the five human values, namely, Sathya (Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Santi (Peace), Prema (Love) and Ahimsa (Non-Violence). Kama (lust), Krodha (anger), lobha (greed), moha (delusion) etc. are qualities of animals. Unfortunately today man is developing animal qualities. He does not make effort to cultivate human qualities. That is the reason why he has no peace of mind or happiness in spite of accumulating a lot of wealth.

It is in this context that much emphasis is laid on ‘Educare’ instead of Education. What is ‘Educare’? Educare is manifesting one’s own innate divine nature. One can experience bliss by doing so. There are several colleges and universities in different parts of the world today. There are innumerable professors and Ph.Ds too. But, could their high academic degrees confer peace and happiness on them? Why did the world not experience peace and happiness in spite of producing so many educated people? The reason being, all their education is meant to make a comfortable living. Education is for life, not for a mere living. One has to pursue Educare along with education. Education is related to the outside world, whereas Educare concerns itself with one’s inner being. It relates to the atma (soul). Where is atma? It is everywhere. It is omnipresent. The Vedas declare Aham Brahmasmi (I am Brahman). This dictum denotes the universal existence of God. A human being is the embodiment of the divine Self, verily. He is not merely a human being. Since he identifies himself with the physical body, he considers himself a mere mortal.

There are five human values. The first one is Sathya (Truth). What is its form? It has no form. It is beyond description. Similarly, Santi (Peace) cannot be perceived by the naked eye. So also the other human values like Dharma (Righteousness), Prema (Love) and Ahimsa (Non-Violence) have no form. Prema is one quality that is present in all human beings, but it is invisible. It can be recognised only when it is showered on another human being. Where there is love, there cannot be hatred. Where there is no hatred, there cannot be violence. That is ahimsa (non-violence). Strangely, the term human value has acquired a new meaning these days. It is mistaken for accumulating wealth and maintaining bank balance. People think this is the purpose of education. This is not true. The real human values are Sathya (Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Santi (Peace), Prema (Love) and Ahimsa (Non-Violence). Anything contrary to these values is animalistic in nature. Hence, whenever you are confronted with such animal thoughts you remind yourself “I am not an animal, I am not an animal, I am a human being, I am a human being”. You are a human being, not an animal. However, you can be considered a human being only when you manifest human qualities, not otherwise. You may be highly educated and well-read, but if you do not have human qualities, you cannot be called a human being. It is only that person who manifests the five human values that could be called a real human being.

You may be an Emperor with lot of wealth and man-power to support you, but you may not be happy. Real peace and happiness come from an inner feeling of peace and tranquility. Worldly positions and power cannot confer peace and happiness. You all know the story of Alexander. He went round the world on a conquest. He crossed the river Sindhu and came to India. Meanwhile he had a heart attack. There were a good number of doctors around him, who examined him and declared that he might not live long and die very soon. Alexander then called his ministers and generals and told them “After I leave this body, wrap my dead body with a white cloth keeping my both hands in a raised position so that all people can see my empty hands. Then you take my body in procession through all the streets of our village. Whoever sees my body thus will enquire why my hands are kept in such raised position. You tell them that Emperor Alexander conquered all the countries and accumulated a lot of wealth. However, at the time of his death, none, even the mighty army or the doctors present could save him. He left the world empty-handed leaving behind all his empire and great wealth.”.

Similarly, one may be a billionaire or a millionaire; yet one has to leave this world with empty hands. You may store your wealth in bank lockers; but you cannot take even a handful of earth along with you at the time of leaving this world. Not even a dust particle.

That Which Manifests One’s Innate Divinity Is Real Education

All education that we pursue today is secular. No doubt that is also necessary, but the real education is that which helps you to manifest your innate divinity. You may read a number of texts, you can teach them to others, too. They cannot make your life exemplary. Hence, what sort of education should a man pursue? ‘Educare’. What is Educare? Educare is manifesting one’s innate human qualities in the outside world. No text books need be read for this purpose. However, since you came into this world with a physical body, you have to acquire education and earn money to sustain that body. Secular education is for sustaining the physical body. The chanting of the Gayatri Mantra starts with AUM. Then the mantra proper reads “Bhur Bhuva Suvah Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat”. The chanting of AUM itself will confer all the benefits that accrue by chanting of the mantra. There is a great necessity today to explain the significance and inner meanings of such mantras to students. That is why we have recruited teachers who can explain these spiritual aspects along with secular education.

The first Vice Chancellor of our University, V. K. Gokak, was one such great teacher who could impart secular education with spiritual background. I knew him even before we started our colleges. He learnt several aspects from Me. He always used to chant the divine name of Swami. He and his wife had single minded devotion. Whenever I visited their house, first of all, they would take Me to their Puja room. Gokak’s heart was very pure. Such a noble person became the first Vice Chancellor of our university. The students today are enjoying the fruits of all the hard work done by him. He used to obey My command in letter and spirit. He used to approach Me to clarify even a small doubt. Today, his eldest son Anil Gokak is laying down the office of the Vice Chancellor of our university after completing his tenure of three years. Anil is a worthy son of a worthy father. Having completed his tenure, he is leaving the university, but I know that his mind is always with Swami.

Both Anil Gokak and his wife are ardent devotees of Swami. Do not think that they are going away from us, nor are we sending them away. Sri Sathya Sai University is imprinted in their hearts. Their thoughts are always focused on Swami. Their hearts are always tuned to Swami. Swami is always with them. Do not think that we are giving them a send-off today. No, no. We do not give send-off to any one, we always welcome, welcome, welcome. I also told them that wherever they were, they should come here and have Swami’s darshan. The Gokak family has always remained a homogeneous unit. Wherever they are, Swami is firmly installed in their heart. Anil Gokak is Mine and I am his. I told him, ‘I and you are one’. Not only Anil, all of you are part of Me though outwardly you appear to be different from Me. Easwara sarva bhutanam (God is immanent in every living being). Easavasyamidam jagat (The entire universe is permeated by God). Even ants and insects are different forms of God. There is nothing in the universe which is not divine. That is the truth.

The creation emerges from truth and merges into truth,

Is there a place in the cosmos where truth does not exist?

Visualise this pure and unsullied truth. (Telugu poem)

Develop The Feeling That God Is Always With Us

Everything is God. It is God that protects or punishes. You should not be under the impression that someone is punishing you. It is God’s Will that works through him. Whoever hurts you or causes suffering to you, you should always think that he belongs to you. You should never entertain an ill-feeling against that person. All are one, be alike to every one. The bodies may be different and the thoughts may be different. But, the atma tatwa in all is only one. No one can separate the atma as belonging to this person or that person. Wherever you go, whether it is America or Japan or Germany or Pakistan or India, only one sun illuminates the entire world. It is day time for us now, whereas it is night in America. Does it mean that there is no sun in America? No. The sun is here, there and everywhere, illumining the entire world. Since the Earth rotates round the Sun, it is night in America at this point of time. Similarly, God is everywhere. He is omnipresent. We need not search for Him in some corner. He is immanent in us. We should develop a feeling that God is always with us, in us, above us and below us. One should develop such firm faith. Then one can see Him at any place of one’s choice. You may contemplate upon Rama or Krishna. While doing so, keep the form of your chosen deity before your mind’s eye and contemplate on Him. Surely you will visualise that form. You should therefore not entertain the feeling that God has forsaken you. If God were to forsake you, how can you exist in the world? God and you are one. Lord Easwara is also referred to as Arthanareeswara, signifying the unity between the male and female aspects of Divinity.

In fact, all our troubles are due to our attachment to Prakriti (material world). Do not entertain the feeling that you are separate from God, that you are only a devotee, etc. Do not think that He is God and you are only a Dasa (servant of God). You are not merely a devotee. You are God verily. Constantly remind yourself “I am God, I am God, I am God”. All the names that are given to individuals are for the purpose of identification. They are not eternal. In fact, all names and forms are meant to be shed at one time or other. But the atma is eternal and changeless. If ‘I’ and ‘Mine’ are removed, what remains is God only. You say this is my body, my mind, my intellect, etc. You are not the body, you are not the mind, you are not the intellect. You are separate from all these things. You are God, verily. Fill water in thousand vessels and keep them in the sun. The sun reflects in all thousand vessels. But there is only one sun. Just as the one sun reflects in thousand vessels, so also the one God illumines the entire universe. God is one and the goal is one. You have to develop the feeling that everything good or bad, profit or loss, is God. Of course, secular education and ideas are necessary to a certain extent.

Today Viswanath Pandit is taking charge as the new Vice Chancellor. He has also toured several countries of the world as an academician. He is ‘Viswanatha’. He is a very good person. In the past also, several Vice Chancellors worked in this university and left after completing their tenure. They may not be present here in their physical bodies. But, their atmas are always with Me. In fact, I am their atma. Hence, no one should feel that someone has left and some other person has come in his place. You perform your duty. This duty strengthens your relationship with God. Duty is God. Anil Gokak performed his duties very well. Even a small matter, he used to bring to the notice of Swami for clarification. I need such people. Right from the first Vice Chancellor, the senior Gokak, to the junior Gokak, all Vice Chancellors are My people only. Even the future Vice Chancellors belong to Me only. I am utilising the services of all these persons for the development of students.

Students Must Develop Equal-Mindedness

The students are also good. College students in the outside world these days are problematic. But, our students cannot be compared to those boys. Our students are unique. They do not join unsuitable company in the outside world. They maintain good behaviour at all times. Everywhere they are distinct and distinguishable, but that does not mean that they are separate or misfits in any society. Wherever they are, they act in harmony with their local community and always conduct themselves with dignity, obeying Swami’s command.

Spirituality is like the head of a physical body. It is only when the head functions well, that all other limbs in the body function smoothly. All our students should therefore treat spirituality as their head. Each lecturer teaches a particular subject in the class room. The students should imprint their teachings in their hearts. They should not differentiate between the lecturers saying so and so is a great lecturer and others are not. If you conduct yourself as good boys with sterling character and leadership qualities, you can even rule this country in the years to come. Hence, develop a sense of equal-mindedness, treat all lecturers as good and take their lessons to your heart. This is what I wish to emphasise today as My advice to all the students of our Institute. Let there be unity between your thoughts, words and deeds. That is ‘Trikarana Suddhi’ What you think, you should speak; what you speak, you must put into practice. That is real humanness. Unity does not mean gathering of all people at one place. What is needed is perfect harmony between thoughts, words and deeds. That is real Educare. The Educare is very much immanent in you. You need not refer to any text books to find Educare. Our heart itself is a text book. Follow its teachings. Then you will become good students and good people. The good people are God’s own people. Don’t consider yourself as just students. You are not merely students. Only your body is a student. In your heart, you are verily divine.

Anil Gokak is leaving today. He will come back. Wherever he and his family reside, they belong to Me. I belong to them too. This is our relationship. I wish that all of you should conduct yourself as good students and welcome the incoming Vice Chancellor Viswanath Pandit with love and respect. Be happy.

Divine Discourse, Prasanthi Nilayam.6-8-2008,

Educare Leads To Unity Of Thought, Word And Deed

Educare Leads To Unity Of Thought, Word And Deed

Educare Leads To Unity Of Thought, Word And Deed

Educare Leads To Unity Of Thought, Word And Deed

Educare Leads To Unity Of Thought, Word And Deed

Educare Leads To Unity Of Thought, Word And Deed

15

Develop Self-confidence To Achieve God-realisation

This land of Bharat gave birth to great people who earned name and fame in different continents;

This land of Bharat is the battlefield from where the foreign rulers were driven out and freedom won;

This land of Bharat had earned great reputation for erudite scholarship;

This land of Bharat is a divine land which produced great intellectuals in the fields of art, music, literature and sciences;

Having been born in such a great land, oh Boys and girls the responsibility to uphold the glory of this country is yours.

(Telugu poem)

BHARAT is no ordinary country. It is so
pleasing to God that He incarnated several times in this great land. The people of this country developed great love and devotion to God (Bhagavadrati). This land gave birth to great warriors, scholars and intellectuals. But, such a great country is in a sad plight. However, we need not be disheartened. No doubt, in the modern world science has progressed by leaps and bounds . But, it has failed to realise Divinity.

Only Spirituality Can Ensure Self-Confidence And Morality

Devoid of self-confidence, any amount of education, scientific knowledge and experiments are absolutely of no use. Not only are they useless, but a waste of time too. This is not the way to God-realisation. God-realisation is possible only through the control of senses and mind and by developing faith in God. Self-confidence is the key to God-realisation. Hence, dear students, develop self-confidence. Then you can achieve anything in life.

People now are crazy about science; but it is only illusory. Science teaches about transitory, impermanent and unreal things only. It fails to teach true Atma Tatwa. Scientists are still engaged in unravelling the mysteries of the universe without concentrating on the realisation of the Atma Tatwa. These experiments are an exercise in futility. Science may explore a few mysteries in the physical world and contribute to a better living. It may make some inventions that would help amass great wealth, but would miserably fail in developing noble qualities. What is the use of acquiring wealth, ignoring morality? Money comes and goes, but morality comes and grows. Morality is possible only through spirituality. There has been a galaxy of scientists who made great inventions. But, they failed to control their body and mind. Why should people pursue such scientific knowledge that would spoil their brains? Instead, one should develop his brain, cultivate a positive outlook and engage himself in service to the country and society. The education you pursue must contribute to the welfare of the society. Then only can you earn name and fame and develop morality and integrity.

Develop morality. It is only then that you can realise Truth. Strive to uphold truth. Truth is the father and mother to the world. When truth and righteousness join together, peace is born. From peace, comes love. Where there is love, there is no scope for hatred. There will be no place at all for evil qualities like anger and jealousy. It is only because people have lost the noble quality of love that even brothers and sisters hate one another these days. Hence, first and foremost develop love. There is nothing in this world that you cannot achieve by love. Love is God, live in love. Love is your life. Even an ant cannot live without love. It makes friendship with other ants while moving about. The insects too love one another. Only human being has lost this noble quality of love today. No doubt, he has love inherently, but he is showing it for wealth and to certain individuals only. There is no use developing such individualised love. One has to develop love for the society as a whole. It is only when there is society that an individual can exist. One can live as a member of the society. By living in the society, one can contribute to the welfare of the society. No other method would work.

The Onam Story

Emperor Bali was a great renunciant. He earned great name and fame for his noble quality of charity. He used to readily give away whatever was asked by others. The people of Kerala are most fortunate to have had Bali as their emperor. Once he was performing a yajna. Several scholars attended that yajna. The Vamanavatar too came to see that yajna. While He was approaching the yajna vedika, people started wondering, “This boy is too young! What has He to do with the yajna? This is an occasion on which great Vedic scholars are expected to participate. How dare this young lad venture into this yajna!” But, the daughter of Emperor Bali did not take Him so lightly. She was attracted and charmed by His captivating beauty and scholarly look. Emperor Bali received the great Vamana and enquired, “Swami, what brought you here? What can I do for you?” Vamana replied that he did not need anything like money or grains and that he would be content to have just three footstep length of land. Bali was surprised at Vamana’s request, since even to bury a dead body six feet length of land was required. He therefore requested Vamana to ask for something more. But Vamana replied, “If you give Me three steps length of land, that would be enough.” Emperor Bali immediately promised to give Him three steps of land as requested. In fact, Vamana’ request has to be understood from the spiritual angle. It may appear to be a trivial request from the worldly point of view. Vamana then covered the entire Earth with one foot. Similarly, He occupied the entire sky with the second step. Now, there was no space available to set the third footstep. He enquired from Emperor Bali as to where He could set His third step, so that He might leave the place immediately. Emperor Bali was nonplussed at the developments and offered his head saying, “Swami, I have now only my head. Kindly keep your foot on my head.” So saying, he removed the crown and offered his head. Lord Vamana then kept His foot on Emperor Bali’s head and pushed him down to the nether world. Vamana did so only with a view to crush the ego of Emperor Bali. In fact, Emperor Bali was a man of righteousness and great charitable disposition. He was proud of these qualities and had developed ego. Vamana therefore decided to crush his ego. Emperor Bali’s subjects were greatly distressed that they had lost a great emperor. However, Emperor Bali promised to visit their land once in a year. This festival of Onam is held every year to commemorate that great day.

On this day, the people of Kerala take a good head bath, cook a variety of tasty dishes and feast on them. Notable among the dishes is the banana pudding. Before partaking of this pudding, they light a sacred lamp in their shrines and offer it to God with prayers. The people of Kerala firmly believe that Emperor Bali would visit them on Onam day and give his darshan. They, therefore, offer their prayers with a pure and sacred heart. This tradition is being continued in Kerala till this day. In fact, they eagerly wait for this great festival. When the king loves his subjects so intensely, so will his subjects too. It is said, Yatha raja thatha praja (as is the king, so are the subjects). The people of Kerala loved Emperor Bali and he too loved them intensely. The festival of Onam reflects the bond of intimate love between Emperor Bali and his subjects. What does the name Bali signify? It signifies the great quality of total sacrifice. When Vamana asked for three feet land, he kept up his promise and offered himself in the end, in total surrender to the Lord. That is why he has become immortal. It is said, Na karmana na prajaya dhanena tyagenaike amrutatthwamanasuh (immortality is not attained through action, progeny or wealth; it is attained only by sacrifice).

What do the three foot steps indicate? Surrender at the Lotus Feet of the Lord physically, mentally and spiritually. Emperor Bali in total surrender to the Lord offered his head to Vamana so that He might keep His foot on it. Once Vamana kept His foot over Bali’s head, he was sanctified and liberated. In order that people may remember this great sacrifice and surrender, Emperor Bali would visit their land once in a year on this day. The people too have not forgotten their emperor till this day. Kerala is a land of plenty. There is no dearth of food grains. There is no dearth of water. In fact, the monsoon rains begin in Kerala. Kerala is a sacred land. It is a land of righteousness and sacrifice. The noble quality of charity had its origin in Kerala. People outside are also full of praise for Kerala. Prayers to God began in Kerala. Kerala gave birth to several great scholars. It is only because the land is so sacred that Lord Vamana incarnated in that place. He was three feet tall and He asked for three foot steps of land from Emperor Bali. He covered the entire Earth and sky with His two feet. Such was the magnificence of His power. God is described as Anoraneeyan mahato maheeyan (Brahman is subtler than the subtlest and vaster than the vastest). The Vamanavatar had come only for granting liberation to Emperor Bali. Among the Avatars of Vishnu, the Vamanavatar is the first in human form. While the Vamanavatar dressed in the traditional attire of a dhoti was entering the Yajnasala, the gaze of all the people there was fixed on Him. Everyone was captivated by the beauty and grace of the resplendent young boy. He took Emperor Bali along with Him to His divine abode. That was the great merit earned by Emperor Bali. The Onam festival is the day on which the Vamanavatar granted liberation to Emperor Bali.

The people of Kerala celebrate Onam on a grand scale, with single-minded devotion. All of them unite to celebrate this festival irrespective of caste, creed and religion. It is their good fortune to come over here in large numbers and celebrate Onam festival in the divine presence of Swami. The devotees of Kerala whenever they come here pray, “Swami, you please visit Kerala.” I tell them, “I will come, I will come.” I never said no to them. Not only to them, I say yes to all those who invite Me. Surely, I will visit them one day and show them the glory and power of Divinity. There are great scholars in Kerala. Kerala is no ordinary State. It is a land where God had incarnated as Vamanavatar. The people of Kerala are most fortunate, for their hearts are filled with love and devotion to God. There is none among them who does not contemplate on God. They may not express their devotion outwardly, but in their heart of hearts they are greatly devoted. People from outside refer to Kerala as a communist state. No, no; it is not communist … ‘come you next’. There are very young children participating in the Bal Vikas programmes. How beautiful are their faces radiating bliss and devotion! Their love towards Swami is overflowing. They are full of love! Their hearts are pure and will become mature in due course.

The Power Of Chastity

Today, the Bal Vikas children of Kerala are going to stage a playlet on Savitri. Who is Savitri? People generally remember her as the wife of Sathyavantha. She was a chaste woman who took a firm resolve to bring her dead husband back to life. She relentlessly pursued her resolve with Lord Yama. Lord Yama offered to grant any request put forward by her, but she refused. Her firm reply was, “I do not want anything. Give me my husband back with life.” Unable to withstand her pressure, Lord Yama acceded to her request and brought her husband back to life. For six days, Sathyavantha’s dead body was lying. At last, he came back to life as a result of the boon granted by Lord Yama to Savitri. Thus, Savitri proved herself to be a great woman of chastity who brought her dead husband back to life with her noble qualities. Thus, women possess great power of persuasion. Their power can work wonders; even bring the dead back to life. Can you find parallels to Savitri in any other country? Only in Bharat do such wonders take place, since it is a land of chaste women.

This land of Bharat has given birth to many noble women like Savitri who brought her dead husband back to life; Chandramati who extinguished wild fire with the power of truth; Sita who proved her chastity by coming out of blazing fire unscathed and Damayanti who reduced an evil-minded hunter to ashes with the power of her chastity. (Telugu poem)

In the Ramayana also when Sri Rama put Sita to the test of fire after vanquishing Ravana, the God of Fire returned Sita to Rama testifying to her character thus: “Sita is a noble woman of chastity. Do not trouble her like this.” Thus, the land of Bharat is the birthplace of several women of chastity. People of other countries referred to this country by several names. When Indians go abroad, they introduce themselves saying, “I am from Delhi; I am from Kolkata; I am from Bengaluru”, etc., instead of saying “I am from Bharat.” Those are actually cities and regions which form part of India. Hence, it would be appropriate to say that you are from India. Wherever you go, you must be proud to refer to yourself as Bharatiyas. The name ‘Bharata’ has great significance. ‘Bha’ refers to Divinity and ‘rata’ refers to one who loves God. Thus, Bharatiyas are people who love God. The country of Bharath has acquired its name on account of such people inhabiting it. The present generation does not realise the significance of Bharat. They very casually mention that they belong to Puttaparthi in the Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh State in India. Where is Puttaparthi? Where is Anantapur? All these are parts in the country of Bharat only. The Bharatiyas are most fortunate people. It is the people of Kerala who imbibed the true spirit of Bharat. They are blessed. Today, they are putting up the play of Savitri. We have to learn a lot from this play.

You have seen how the devotees of Kerala staged beautiful dramas during the last two days. Yesterday, they enacted the ‘Sita Rama Kalyana’ (the celestial wedding of Sri Rama and Sita) in all its glory and splendour. The day before they put up a beautiful show of Krishna Leelas. The music, action and dialogues are wonderful. Their dresses are also good. The lady devotees of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation in Kerala did great service in putting up this show. It is only because of their hard work and enthusiasm that these playlets appeared so natural and captivating. Whatever they do, the men and women of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation of Kerala conduct on a grand scale. I wish and bless that the devotees of Kerala must keep up this spirit in all their service activities in future also. I am happy that you all realised the importance and significance of the festival of Onam. Now you go ahead with your programme of staging the playlet of Savitri.

Onam, Prasanthi Nilayam.12-9-2008,

Develop Self-confidence To Achieve God-realisation

Develop Self-confidence To Achieve God-realisation

Develop Self-confidence To Achieve God-realisation

Develop Self-confidence To Achieve God-realisation

Develop Self-confidence To Achieve God-realisation

16

All Are One, Be Alike To Everyone

Karma is responsible for the birth, existence and death of man. It holds sway over all stages of his life as the very deity of human existence. It is responsible for the joy and sorrow of man.

(Telugu poem)

PEOPLE experience pleasure and pain, sorrow
and difficulties in this world. But, when they experience pleasure, they would say it is due to their prapti (deservedness). On the other hand, when they undergo difficulties, they attribute it to their destiny. Really speaking, both pleasure and pain are the result of one’s own actions (karma). Yad bhavam tad bhavathi (as are the feelings, so is the result). As are the karmas (actions), so will be the result. As is the food, so will be the belch. Similarly, the entire world is based on karma. Hence, the karmas performed by people should be sacred.

The Three Facets Of The Divine Female Principle

It is now Dasara festival time. What is Dasara? The celebration of Dasara festival is meant to purify the actions performed by the dasendriyas (5 senses of action plus 5 senses of perception). Every human being in this world has to perform some kind of karma. The presiding deity or the driving force behind these actions is Devi, who is the personification of energy. She is the bestower of all kinds of energy to perform various kinds of karma by the human beings. Goddess Lakshmi bestows various kinds of wealth like money, food grains, gold, different kinds of objects, vehicles for movement, etc., to human beings so that they can lead a happy life in this world. The third facet of the divine female principle is Saraswati, the goddess of learning and intellect. Thus, the Trinity of Durga (goddess of energy), Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) and Saraswati (goddess of learning and intellect) are worshipped during this festival of Dasara. This is the underlying principle of worshipping this Trinity of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati during this Navaratri (9 day) festival. It is essential that man worships all these three facets of the Divine Principle.

Tridalam Trigunakaram

Trinetram Cha Triyayudham;

Trijanma Papa Samharam

Eka Bilvam Sivarpanam.

(One Bilva leaf with three petals is offered to the three-eyed Lord Siva who is the embodiment of the three Gunas (attributes), who holds the trident in his hand and who destroys the sins accumulated over three births.)

Human Intellect Is To Be Used For Righteous Actions

Everyone performs Devi Puja (worshipping goddess Devi) during the Navaratri festival, which confers energy on the individual. The worship of Lakshmi brings all kinds of wealth and that of Saraswathi, learning and good intellect. Hence, the worship of all the three aspects of goddess is very important during the Navaratri festival. In all this worship, Dharma (righteousness) is of utmost importance. One should enquire into oneself what result would accrue on account of a particular action and then get into it. This reasoning faculty is in the domain of the intellect (buddhi), which is all-pervading in the human body. Just as the electric current passes through the wire, intellect enters and influences all senses of a human being. Hence, every human being should make proper use of his intellect and undertake only righteous actions at all times. No doubt, one is bound by the result of one’s own actions – good or bad. And, no result is possible without performing an action. The Pandavas experienced the result of their karmas. So did Sita in Ramayana. Hence, we should undertake good and sacred karmas beneficial to the society, thereby sanctifying our lives.

The left side of the chest of Lord Mahavishnu is the abode of Goddess Lakshmi. Seated in that sacred abode, she showers her grace on one and all. Lord Vishnu is also known as Narayana. Lord Narayana in this context does not refer to Lakshminarayana, but to Sathyanarayana.

This Unique Avatar Is The Embodiment Of Truth And Righteousness

This Sathyanarayana moves among people, cuts jokes, talks to them and makes them happy. The Lakshmi-narayana reclines on Adisesha, the serpent. This Sathyanarayana too was rocked under the bed, by a serpent when he was just a newborn baby. Sathyanarayana looks like any other ordinary human being. But, He possesses extraordinary and superhuman powers. They are indescribable. He looks very innocent. Yet, sathya (truth) is the most important quality He looks for in the people. Wherever He goes, He teaches truth (sathya) only; for, from truth emerges righteousness (dharma). Sathyannasti paro Dharma (There is no Dharma greater than adherence to truth). In fact, Sathyanarayana is the embodiment of Truth and Righteousness (Sathya and Dharma)! It is for propagating these two human values that Lord Sathyanarayana has incarnated in human form as Sathyanarayana Raju. Sathyanarayana is an unique Avatar, though He appears to be an ordinary human being. People often commit the mistake of taking Him to be an ordinary human, since He very closely interacts with them at the human level. Whatever He speaks is truth, truth and nothing but truth! Truth is often times construed as giving expression to one’s own thoughts. It is not as simple as that, it is much more – putting them into action. Truth is one with perfect accord between one’s thought, word and deed.

People do not follow My words properly. They take My words lightly thinking them to be just a joke or fun. Whatever I speak, even if it is a joke or for fun, it is Truth, Truth and Truth only! Unfortunately, people do not recognise this truth, even those who move very closely with Swami. They therefore take it lightly. They just listen and forget about it. But, surely the result of their apathy would be apparent sooner than later. Only those who are unable to visualise the future will be taking my words lightly. Though Swami is moving in front of them, giving them darshan, talking to them now and then and performing several gigantic tasks right in front of their eyes, people are unable to recognise His true nature and get convinced by His words. How strange it is! It is nearing 83 years since this body was born. I have not forgotten a single incident in this earthly sojourn. But people say, “Swami forgets things”. No, there is no truth at all in this statement. Forgetfulness is not in My dictionary.

The principle of Sathya Sai is the principle of Soham Mantra, which never comes under the veil of forgetfulness in the waking, dream and deep sleep states.

(Telugu song)

It is human nature to misunderstand Truth, which is beyond the three periods of time (past, present and future) and three states of human life (jagrit, swapna and sushupti). I am now revealing that truth. I have never tried to reveal this so far. Since the time has come to reveal it, I am doing so. People have to realise this. Truth does not make any kind of distinction. It has neither friends nor foes. It has no hatred or dislike against anyone. All are the children of Sathyam (Truth)! Hence, all are equal to Me. I do not make any distinction between people. You may think that I am giving more attention to some people or favouring some. You may also think that I am ignoring some people. No, this is not true. You all know and you must have also seen Me. I do not at all get angry against anybody, even though some talk ill of Me. I will always be smiling. Even the apparent anger that I display sometimes is just to correct an individual. The students vouchsafe for this attitude of Mine. They wonder how Swami is able to put up such a smiling countenance in the midst of great criticism and how could Swami muster such great patience!

One Atmanarayana Immanent In All

For Me, all are one even though individuals appear to be different in form and qualities, there is only one divine force working through them. That is atma sakti (the power of atma). There is only one Atmanarayana immanent in all human beings, nay, all living beings. Every human being must try to realise this Atma Tatwa.

There are so many bulbs illuminating this hall. However, the electric current flowing in all these bulbs is the same. The bulbs may appear to be different, but current is the same. Similarly, even though the names and forms of the living beings in God’s creation appear to be different, the atmic consciousness permeating them is only one. All these lights go off and darkness envelops if the main switch is switched off. Thus, God illumines the entire universe as the atma tatwa immanent in all the living beings and objects. Even though God may appear to be involved in so many activities in this world, it is only for the pleasure of His devotees. He has no desires of His own. He has only one desire – Samasta Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu (May all the beings in all the worlds be happy!). Human beings, however, will be experiencing the results of their own actions. It is not possible for all to be happy always in this ephemeral world. One may experience happiness, while another may be suffering at the same time. This is the nature of the world. The sorrows and difficulties or pleasure and pain bring different experiences to different people, the atma tatwa present in all the human beings is only one. Electric bulbs may be of different colours and sizes. But, the electric current passing through them is the same. Only the wattage of the bulbs is different. Depending upon the wattage, some bulbs may be bright while others are dim. The brightness or dimness is only due to the wattage of the bulbs and it has nothing to do with the current. Similarly, the sorrows and difficulties, pleasure and pain experienced by different individuals are only their own making and God has nothing to do with it.

Lord Sathyanarayana is also called Vishnu. Lord Vishnu has incarnated as Sathyanarayana in this world. Hence, Sathyanarayana is verily Lord Vishnu. This has been explained in the Vishnu Purana. You must understand His Tatwa (true nature) well. I have not given any discourse during the last ten days. What is the reason? People attributed different reasons for this, according to their imagination. But, one thing is true. I am sitting before the microphone today to reveal the truth. My love is supreme and pure. I love those who love Me. I love even those who develop hatred towards Me. I am also extending My love to those who are demonic and who try to put Me to great inconvenience. There is no one in this world whom I do not love. Unfortunately, people do not realise this truth. People think, “Swami is not talking to us; perhaps Swami is angry with us.” Let Me assure you that I have no anger at all. I have only one thing – ‘hunger’; ‘hunger’ for devotees! It is only due to this hunger I am drawing devotees in large numbers to Me. Be assured that God is the embodiment of Love. He has no hatred towards anybody. It is to teach this principle of love that the Navaratri celebrations have been started. Different people worship God and sing His glory in different ways. I have no difference at all! I wish that all should live as embodiments of love and like brothers and sisters. Men are more valuable than all the wealth of the world.

All are God’s children. God is the only father of all. Hence, we must love all. Others may or may not love us, but, we must love all and serve all. People keep distance from us, so long as they do not understand the power of love. Once they understand and experience love, they become one with us. I am waiting for such a transformation in the hearts of people. Thousands of people have heard My discourses over a period of time. Thousands and lakhs of people witnessed My divine powers on various occasions. In spite of all that, people are unable to understand the true nature of My Divinity. People talk of so many things according to their perceptions and understanding. It is not their fault. There are very few people who could realise Truth and conduct themselves accordingly. Those who realise the path of Truth only will be able to follow it. When people develop anger or hatred against Truth, they keep themselves away from it. Irrespective of their love or hatred, we should always love them. People keep distance from one another due to differences of opinion. In fact, you are not different from others. Today they may appear to be different, but tomorrow they may come close to you. All are brothers and sisters! Hence, all should live like brothers and sisters with love and unity. “All are one; be alike to everyone.” This is My special Message on this holy occasion of Navaratri.

You will be able to realise Truth sooner or later. When a tree bears fruit, not all the fruits in a bunch will be ripened at the same time. Similarly, when a plant bears flowers, not all the flowers blossom at the same time. Some will be in the process of blossoming, some are fully blossomed, yet others will be in the bud stage only. It is only the fully blossomed flower that spreads its fragrance. Similarly, men will also be in different stages of evolution – some are like the bud, some at the blossoming stage and some others like the fully blossomed flower, spreading their fragrance. We have to patiently wait till the fragrance stage comes. This is My important message.

Today is the Poornahuti day of the Veda Purusha Saptaha Jnana Yajnam. What is meant by Poornahuti? It means total sacrifice. My life has always been one of sacrifice!

Poornamada poornamidam,

Poornat poornamudachyate,

Poornasya poornamadaya, Poornamevavashishyate.

(That is full, this is full. When the full is taken out of the full, what remains again is the full.)

(Sanskrit sloka)

Those who understand the truth will be able to know. Students are still in the budding stage. It will take some time for them to understand the true spirit of Swami’s words. Hence, you keep patience till then.

Students Must Avoid The Use Of Cell Phone

One more thing I wish to mention in this context. I see several boys keeping cell phones in their pockets. They think that they are keeping cell phones for their convenience and easy communication. They do not realise the ill-effects of these instruments. The cell phones are often misused for undesirable purposes like establishing contacts between boys and girls. They develop bad thoughts and bad connections between them. In order that bad thoughts should not enter our minds, we should avoid such connections altogether. It is said, Manah eva manushyanam karanam bandhamokshayo (mind is the cause of bondage and liberation of man). It is common practice that we give our telephone numbers to all and sundry. What happens thereafter? Bad contacts develop. All unnecessary calls are made to verify whether we respond to them or not. Thus, boys and girls develop unnecessary contacts and establish undesirable relationships between them. Hence, I would strongly advise you not to make use of cell phones. It may be convenient in the beginning, but gradually it will lead to bad ways.

I will be approaching 83 years of age shortly. I have not made use of a telephone till now. Several people want to make calls to Me expressing their sorrow and seeking solace. Come what may; I do not use the phone. Hence, I have a right to guide you and warn you. You must be very careful. You are still in the budding stage. Conduct yourself carefully, keeping your age in mind. If you don’t take proper care of yourself, even the world will look down upon you. You will be branded as a careless youngster. Respect and disrespect in the world depends on the way you conduct yourself. You may think that your conduct is alright, but it is for others to judge. Always conduct yourself in such a way that you do not give scope for any misunderstanding by others. The elders may exercise discretion and try to understand you in proper spirit, but children of your age cannot do so. Once misunderstanding sets in, you will miss the finer things in life and become doomed. Hence, I wish that you all be very careful in your contacts and relations with others. If possible, dump your cell phones in a well. You will be happy and peaceful. Better you don’t acquire them at all! Even if you acquire one, establish contact and connection with only those with whom it is desirable.

Do not develop unnecessary and undesirable contacts with others. By developing such contacts, you gather news from all and sundry and pass it on to others. Ultimately, you will end up as Narada poking your nose in all sorts of things. You will not only spoil your mind with unwanted things, but also spoil the minds of others. Why all this unpleasantness? Is it not because of your unwanted and undesirable telephonic contacts? Hence, be careful and earn a good name for yourself, your parents and the institution in which you are studying.

Vijayadasami, 9-10-2008,

Prasanthi Nilayam.

All Are One, Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One, Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One, Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One, Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One, Be Alike To Everyone

All Are One, Be Alike To Everyone

17

Love Is God, Live In Love

This land of Bharat is the motherland for great people, who acquired name and fame in different continents. The land of Bharat is the battlefield wherefrom the warriors of foreign countries were driven out and freedom from foreign rule was acquired. This land of Bharat has acquired great name and fame for erudite scholarship. This land of Bharat is a divine land which has produced great intellectuals in the fields of music, art, literature and various sciences. Having been born in such a great land, Oh Boys and Girls, the responsibility to protect and uphold the righteousness of this country is yours.

(Telugu poem)

THE fame and fortune of Bharat is truly great
letter. While several countries of the world had faced calamities of various kinds Bharat has remained stable. It is a country richly endowed with a variety of wealth.

Forbearance is the real beauty in this sacred land of Bharat. Of all the rituals, adherence to truth is the greatest penance. The nectarous feeling in this country is the feeling of love towards one’s mother. Character is valued far higher than the very life itself. People have forgotten the basic principles of this great culture and are imitating Western culture. Alas! The Bharatiyas are not aware of the greatness of their cultural heritage just as a mighty elephant is not aware of its own strength.

(Telugu poem)

Throughout history Bharat has been pre-eminent in material and intellectual plenty. It was ruled by great kings and righteous rulers. Several women famed for their chastity were born in this country. Savitri could bring back her dead husband Sathyavantha to life by the power of her chastity. Can you find parallels to such noble and chaste women elsewhere in the world?

This land of Bharat has given birth to many noble women like Savitri who brought her dead husband back to life; Chandramati who extinguished wild fire with the power of truth, Sita who proved her chastity by coming out of the blazing fire unscathed and Damayanti who reduced an evil-minded hunter to ashes with the power of her chastity. This land of piety and nobility attained plenty and prosperity and became the teacher of all the nations of the world because of such women of chastity.

(Telugu poem)

Bharatiyas Have Forgotten Their Greatness And Values

Sadly, however. today, many persons born in this great land of Bharat are succumbing to and are tempted by trivial things. Their perception is bad, they listen to bad things, and even their behaviour is bad. What a great fall! The Bharatiyas today are like the elephant which is unaware of its own strength. With a swish of its tail an elephant can knock a man off his feet and throw him yards away. Such a powerful elephant will meekly obey the commands of the mahout. It just acts according to the wishes of the mahout. Similarly, the Bharatiyas today are surrendering to the dictates of outsiders and are becoming their slaves. The way of life of the Bharatiyas is conditioned by truth and righteousness, in accordance with the Vedic injunctions, “Sathyam vada (speak truth) and Dharmam chara (follow righteousness).” In fact, truth and righteousness are the very treasure of Bharatiyas. Unfortunately, today the Bharatiyas have forgotton these great values and, therefore, become slaves in their own country. Their lifestyle itself has undergone a change where truth and righteousness have no place. Truly speaking, there is none in this world who can conquer Bharat. The Bharatiyas are born with the great human values, namely, Sathya (truth), Dharma (righteousness), Santi (peace) and Prema (love).

Every individual has to enquire into his or her true nature, “who am I?” The reply that comes from within is “I am a human being”. Along with this reply, one has to assure oneself “I am not an animal”. That is your true nature. When you consider yourself to be a human being, you must display human qualities. What are they? First and foremost, Sathyam (truth). From truth comes righteousness (dharma). It is said “Sathyaannasti paro dharmah” (There is no greater dharma than adhering to truth). Sathya and Dharma together bring Santi (peace) and Prema (love). Where there is love, there cannot be hatred and jealously. Unfortunately, today people have lost the great quality of love. Even a dog loves its puppy. Even the birds love their offspring. But, a human being does not love a fellow human being. Lack of unity among the people is the root cause for the present state of affairs in Bharat. There is no unity in the family, in the society and in the country. Where there is unity, there will be purity, where there is purity, there divinity shall be. What is required today is unity, purity and divinity. The scientists today are inventing several things. A double-decker aeroplane is being flown in the sky. However, along with the great advances made in science and technology, loss of the quality of human life is also on a large scale. This was not the case in earlier times. Several people used to live together under one roof, with peace and happiness. There was no fear complex at all. But, today, the fear complex is all pervading. Wherefrom did this fear come? It is due to lack of self-confidence. Man has no faith in his inner self. It is said “Naayamatma balaheenena labhyah” (the atmic consciousness is not for the weak minded).

Man has developed faith in everything in this world, but not in his own self. Where there is self-confidence, there will be self-satisfaction; where there is self-satisfaction, there will be self-sacrifice; where there is self-sacrifice, there will be self-realisation. It is common knowledge that where the foundation is strong, the walls will be safe; where the walls are safe, the roof will be secure. It is only in such a house can one live safely. Today, the foundation itself is not strong. How then can the walls remain safe? Self-confidence is the foundation for a human being, self-satisfaction represents the walls, self-sacrifice is the roof and self-realisation is life. Hence, there should be perfect coordination between these four.

Due to indiscriminate use of technology the air, water, food and everything is polluted and poisoned all over the world. Fortunately, the country of Bharat is spared from this widespread pollution. We should not run after science and technology. Science without humanness is fraught with great danger to the very existence of humanity. There is no greater power than human power. Some people question “Where is God?” The answer is very simple. Man himself is God, you are God, verily. The Vedas declare, “Chandrama manaso jaathah; chaksho surya ajaayata” (the moon was born out of the mind and the sun out of the eyes of the Supreme Being). The real strength comes from our own inner self. This strength is unparalleled.

In spite of his education and intelligence, a foolish man will not know his true Self and a mean-minded person will not give up his evil qualities.

(Telugu poem)

Modern education leads only to argumentation, not to total wisdom. What is the use of acquiring education which cannot lead you to immortality? Acquire the knowledge that will make you immortal.

(Telugu poem)

The Spiritual Health Of Bharat Is Unique

Today’s education does not provide real knowledge that matures in to wisdom. They just help one to earn a livelihood. They promote acquisition and misuse of wealth. With the money people acquire through various means, people send young boys to foreign countries for higher education. They spend lakhs of rupees for that purpose. By the time they return to their homeland, the children are spoiled totally. Here is a small incident that had happened sometime ago. The Indian parents took their son to a temple before his departure to a foreign country for his studies and advised him, “Dear son, this deity is the mother to one and all. She is the Mother of the Universe. You should never forget the Mother. Constantly contemplate on Her, wherever you are”. They, in fact, extracted a promise from him to that effect. The boy then left for U.S.A. Once he set his foot in America, he totally forgot about the Mother, fully immersed in that new environment. After a lapse of three years, he returned to his native country, Bharat, fully accustomed to the American way of life. The parents took that boy to the same temple straight from the Airport, for a darshan of the Divine Mother. As soon as he entered the temple, the boy, instead of offering his namaskar to the deity, greeted Her in English, “How are you Madam?” The parents scolded the boy for his impertinence and not paying his obeisance to the Divine Mother. They regretted very much that their son, brought up in a traditional family, did not even care to offer his pranams to the Divine Mother and all the lakhs of rupees spent on his foreign education had gone waste. They finally decided to advise all those parents who wished to send their children abroad for higher education, against it.

It is indisputably true that higher studies abroad are resulting in people acquiring bad thoughts, habits and behaviour. One need not be crazy about foreign education. The wealth of education and culture available in this country is not to be found in other countries. We must be proud of our birth in this great land of Bharat. It is a great privilege to be referred to as Bharatiyas. We must, therefore, develop self-confidence. We must develop interest in leading a moral, virtuous and spiritual life. Unfortunately, today there is no morality in people. How then can you lead a happy and peaceful life? The great spiritual wealth available in this country of Bharat is not to be found in any other country. People from several countries are inviting Me to visit their places, offering Me even special aircraft. But, I am consistently turning down their requests. I am always happy here in India. I don’t need these aeroplanes and such other comforts. I want only devotion.

Visualise The Same Atma Tatwa In All

I did not come across anyone who hate Me, and till now I have no enemies at all. All people love Me, since I love one and all. However, people do not understand My love properly. Because of My universal love, even people from far-off lands come to Me. Why then should I go abroad? Some people misunderstand and misinterpret My love. Some even develop aversion towards Me on the ground that I did not oblige them by granting their requests on some occasions. In fact, will they progress in the spiritual path if I grant all their requests? No, not at all. On the other hand, they will get spoiled. That is the reason why I wish to keep the boys and girls in proper limits right from their childhood. You can observe that no one in our educational institutions ever hates Me in the least. All students gather round Me lovingly calling “Swami! Swami!”. When I come out after paying a visit to their campuses, they take leave of Me with tears in their eyes. Do you find the same situation prevalent in educational institutions elsewhere? Do the colleges and universities outside function as temples of learning? Even the parents visiting their wards in those educational institutions are not treated with due respect.

Parents are sacred. The Bharatiya culture exhorts people “Matrudevobhava! Pitrudevobhava!” father is God; mother is God. Every human being is an embodiment of God. In fact, the entire creation is God. Unable to realise this great Truth, we say, “This person is my enemy, he ill-treated me” and develop hatred against that person. As you think, so it will be, (yad bhavam tad bhavati) love begets love and hatred begets hatred. It is common to help those who help you. But, it is only Sai who is gracious enough to help those that try to cause harm to Him, ignoring their own faults. You must love even those who harm you. That is real humanness. You must develop such a human quality. Whomever you come across treat him as an embodiment of Divinity. It is said, “Daivam manusha rupena” (God is in human form). You may observe the picture of any form of God, there God is portrayed in the human form. Rama, Krishna or any other deity – all are in human forms only. You may relate to God in different forms and names; but all are embodiments of Divine Self. The atma tatwa is the same in all human beings, irrespective of names and forms. It is said “Ekatma sarva bhutantaratma” (one atma resides as the indweller in all living beings). One has to cultivate such noble feelings right from childhood. You may think it is a difficult task. No, there is nothing easier than this feeling of equality. Supposing a person whom you consider as an enemy is approaching you; you offer your pranams to him and enquire, “Hello, How are you brother?” Immediately the other man will respond saying “How are you brother?” He will not get angry. Why? Since you called him brother, he will also treat you in the same way. It is in your language that either love and faith or enmity and distrust in the other person is displayed.

You must rise to a level where you will be able to visualise the same atma tatwa in all. Then you will truly become “Divyatma Swarupa” (embodiment of the Divine Self). You must consider “I am a Divyatma Swarupa. All these different forms of human beings are only my reflections. I am able to see myself in these bodies, which are like mirrors”. It is only when you are able to reach that stage that you will enjoy real peace. You will not experience peace by merely doing japa (constant repetition of the Lord’s name), tapa (penance), yoga or sacrificial rites like yajna and yaga.

People crave for peace and undertake several spiritual practices for the purpose. But, they don’t find peace anywhere. Wherever you see, there are only pieces in the outside world. But, once they direct their vision inward they will be able to find peace there. The peace within is manifesting outside. Such a person with inner vision can only be called a human being in the real sense. Animals, however, have no such inner vision and discriminatory intellect. They therefore display cruelty. You are not an animal. You are a human being. Hence, lead a life befitting that of a human being. You say that you are a human being, but, you live the life of a cruel animal. How then can you be called a human being?

Cultivate Love Give Up Hatred

Live like a real human being. Get rid of animal qualities like kama (desire), krodha (anger), lobha (greed), moha (delusion), mada (pride) and matsarya (hatred and envy). You should not hate anybody. I have no anger against anyone till date. That is why all people love Me. I have only one quality that is love towards all. Hence, even if I go to a forest, people will follow Me to that place. It is only My love that draws all people to Me. Yet, some people develop antipathy towards Me. It is not My fault, but their own imagination. People wonder how Swami is so divinely peaceful and is able to interact with so many people day in and day out. In fact, peace is natural to Me. I always smile and put up a serene countenance. I can never put up a castor oil face. I am always happy and smiling. I exhort you also to be so. When you all are happy, I am happy. Your happiness is My happiness.

What could be the reason for millions of people loving Me? What brought you here in such large numbers? Did I send any invitation to you all? It is only your love that brought you here. Can the invitations draw crowds? Even when there is no invitation, people rush towards Me if they come to know that I am passing through a particular place. What could be the reason for this? Only love. Love is God; live in love. That is what you have to learn and cultivate. Love is the foremost quality that you should cultivate. Take a pledge accordingly on this sacred day.

Become Embodiments Of Divine Love

Very soon, the entire world will be united. In fact, after 28 years the world itself will become “Bharat”. Everyone will call himself a Bharatiya (one imbued with godliness – Bhagavat ratas). No one will refer to himself or herself as belonging to this state or that state, this region or that region. You may go to any country, but you refer to yourself as belonging to the country of Bharat. For example, there may be Karnataka State or Tamil Nadu State, etc., but, they are all parts of a larger country called Bharat. Without the country, the States cannot exist. You are all Bharatiyas first and last. Hence, you say that you came from Bharat. The different states might have been created certain linguistic or geographical considerations. But, they are all parts of one country that is Bharat.

We all belong to only one party – the party of love. Love, love and only love. Keeping love as your guiding force, you go to any country, people will respect you, consider you as their own brothers and sisters and extend all necessary help to you. Love is selflessness. A human being should never have selfishness. However, people of their own accord develop evil qualities like selfishness, hatred, anger, etc. These are traits cultivated by human beings themselves; they are not God-given. God has bestowed only one noble quality on all human beings, that is love. Love is eternal. Physical strength, courage or valour can never be a match to the power of love. When Sita was kept in confinement in Lanka under the guard of rakshasas, it was her love for Rama that gave her courage and confidence to boldly face all difficult situations. She constantly contemplated on the divine name of Rama during the period. Finally, Rama’s love saved her. During that ten month period, none could touch her. If only you cultivate such divine love, it will confer everything on you. You all should become the embodiments of love. Pray “Samastalokah sukhino bhavantu” constantly, that is the only prayer you all have to do. Then, all people in all countries will be happy and peaceful. I am loving you all. I have no enemies. No one hates Me. Sometimes I do speak harshly in a raised voice. But, that is only outwardly. I do not bear ill-will towards anyone. Hence, if you follow the ideal set by Swami and love all, your life will be sanctified. Your parents, brothers, sisters, relatives and friends will feel happy.

27th Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University, 22-11-2008, Prasanthi Nilayam.

Love Is God, Live In Love

Love Is God, Live In Love

Love Is God, Live In Love

Love Is God, Live In Love

Love Is God, Live In Love

Love Is God, Live In Love

18

Lead A Happy Life With A Feeling Of Camaraderie And Fraternity

All the names and forms are but the manifestations of the Supreme Being who is ExistenceKnowledgeBliss Absolute and nondual. He is the embodiment of Sathyam, Sivam, Sundaram (Truth, Goodness, Beauty).

(Sanskrit verse)

Embodiments of Love!

THE country of Bharat is most sacred. In this
sacred land of Bharat, tolerance is the noble quality that we should cultivate. Just as an elephant is unable to realise its innate strength, so are the Bharatiyas today. The elephant meekly submits itself to the commands of a mahout who is ignorant and illiterate. In spite of its great strength, it cannot demonstrate its strength. Similarly, the Bharatiyas today are unable to demonstrate their strength in spite of possessing a rich culture, righteousness and justice on their side. The Vedas declare, Na karmana na prajaya dhanena tyagenaike amrutatthwamanasuh (immortality is not attained through action, progeny or wealth, it is attained only by sacrifice). The greatest drawback in this country is lack of unity among people. We have everything in this country. We have noble qualities. We are righteous. But, there is no unity among people. With the result, all other positive factors become ineffectual. Hence, we have to cultivate unity among people. We all belong to one species, that is of human beings. Being humans, we are, unfortunately, exhibiting inhuman and animal qualities. Hence, first and foremost we have to recognise our innate human nature today. We have to treat others’ suffering as our own. We have to treat others’ difficulties as our own. We have to be amicable with one and all. We must develop faith in the maxim Ekatmaswarupas (embodiments of one Divine self). We must develop a sense of discrimination between good and bad and take good only, leaving the bad in all human beings. The same principle has to be followed in society also. We have to do good even to those who harm us:

There is nothing great in helping those who have helped you. He is a noble one who helps even those who have harmed him.

(Telugu poem)

We must always entertain good thoughts about people. “See good, do good and be good – that is the way to God”. “Yad bhavam tad bhavati” (as is the feeling, so is the result). If our thoughts are good, we will always engage ourselves in satkarmas (good deeds). If you eat a mango, can you get the belch of a cucumber? No. Similarly, if you entertain good thoughts always, you will see good only everywhere. When you indulge in bad thoughts, you will see bad only everywhere.

Secular Education Is Useless Without A Spiritual Base

There is a Sathya Sai college in Muddenahalli near Bangalore. Several boys coming from poor families in the villages around are studying in this college. A number of philanthropists extended help to the college in different ways – some built classrooms, others a Bhajan hall, etc. However, this institution is not affiliated to any University. Once the boys finish their education here, they have to go to places like Bangalore to pursue a degree course. When I thought of their plight, I got a good idea. Here in Puttaparthi, our college and University are housed in spacious and beautiful buildings. Supposing we establish a campus in Muddenahalli, the boys there will also be happy. Is it not? Hence, I decided to establish a college campus of Sri Sathya Sai University in Muddenahalli too. Mine is Divine Will that is irrevocable and immutable. Now that I have decided, I will initiate the process from tomorrow. Since the boys studying in Muddenahalli college come from rural background and are very poor, they are unable to go for higher education in cities and towns. They therefore discontinue their studies and take to farming activity. Of course, that is also necessary. Secular education helps to make a comfortable living. Hence, education is of top priority. Once they finish their education, they can get into any occupation including agriculture. I have therefore decided to provide University education to the boys in Muddenahalli. I am of the view that, side by side with the academic subjects, there must be provision for teaching epics and sacred texts like the Ramayana, the Bhagavata and the Bhagavad Gita as well. The boys must be given good training and be allowed to spread the message of these epics in the villages around. All secular education is useless without a spiritual base.

There are millions of educated people in the world. But, what is their contribution to society? Nothing. They don’t even care for society. They are crazy about the luxurious life in towns and cities. They indulge in bad practices like gambling and club life. The children too are taking to bad ways, observing their parents. Hence, it is My view that the children should be taught to tread the right path. The elders will follow them later on observing them. Keeping this in My mind, I have decided to establish a University campus in Muddenahalli. Perhaps it will cost about two to three crores of rupees. I do not mind this expenditure. It is My resolve that this is needed.

The boys in Prasanthi Nilayam are excellent. They are pure gold. It is possible that one or two may stray from the right path, but, very soon they adjust themselves to the academic environment and follow the mainstream. Yesterday, the boys staged a play. It conveys a great message. The theme of the play was two brothers quarrelling for their share of property in a small village. They are counselled saying, “Dear brothers, if you quarrel with each other like this, how can our village prosper? You must be united and must lead an amicable life”, and, finally, they are corrected. The boys should therefore be encouraged to take up such village development programmes.

Students, no doubt, are good today. But, the elders spoil them by their bad behaviour. It is the elders who divert them to bad ways. However, the students quickly realise their mistakes and retrace their steps. I know of boys who advise their parents addicted to alcohol to desist from such bad ways saying, “Dear father, you should not indulge in these bad habits. By doing so, you will only be encouraging us also to take to drinking. This is not good.” If elders take to drinking, smoking and gambling, the children follow suit. They get spoiled. Hence, if the children must lead a virtuous life, the elders must lead an ideal life first. I have therefore decided to establish a University campus in Muddenahalli to teach boys to lead an ideal life with clean habits. The boys there cannot afford to go to a city for University education. Nor can their parents afford the expenditure. Hence, I have decided to establish a University campus with all the equipments and facilities like classrooms for all the courses and a good hostel. It will be ready for opening within a year. It is My Divine will.

All That I Have For You Is A Thousand Mothers’ Love

A number of people like Anil Kumar, Ajit Popat, etc., have spoken a lot extolling Me. I am not happy about such praises. I have no desire that people should extol Me. I am neither elated nor depressed by such acts. I am beyond praise or ridicule, respect or disrespect, anger or happiness. I have only one attribute throughout – My love. I love even those who hate Me. I love even those who indulge in bad propaganda against Me. I do not consider anyone as enemy. All are Mine. I am looking after you all, like a mother. Mine is not one mother’s love. It is the love of a thousand mothers. Sai’s love is a thousand mothers’ love. It is only due to that love, I ignore all your faults and move forward. Whenever someone commits a mistake, I call him and correct him in a raised voice. But, I don’t show anger against him. I have no anger against anybody. In fact, I have no anger at all. People who are unable to understand My true nature think otherwise. Whatever people may think and say, I have only one attribute, that is love. Mine is a right royal road, not shortcuts. People do not understand Me properly. Once they recognise My true nature, they themselves will repent. That repentance is expiation for their misunderstanding. However, there is no change in my attitude towards them.

What I wish is “Samastalokah sukhino bhavantu” (May all the beings of all the worlds be happy!). All should be hale and healthy and lead happy and prosperous lives with mutual love and understanding. You must acquire wealth, but you should not misuse wealth. Then only I will be happy. I will extend any help to such people. I have not stretched My hand before anyone till date for any kind of help. If there is anyone in this vast concourse of devotees in this hall whom I had approached for money, he or she may rise and point out to Me. There is none, surely. Whatever I need in My avataric mission comes from within only. “Money comes and goes, morality comes and grows”. It is My endeavour that morality should be developed. All villages must be developed. For this purpose, education in rural areas is an important tool. Simultaneously, faith in God must also be developed. People with self-confidence can achieve anything.

Those Who Denigrate Will Repent

Bhakta Ramadas wanted to build a magnificent temple for Rama in Bhadrachalam. He, therefore utilised all the tax money collected from people for the purpose. As a result, he was imprisoned by Emperor Tanisha on charges of misuse of state money and was put to great torture. Unable to bear the physical torture, he prayed to his dear Lord Rama and even used harsh words thus:

That crest jewel which adorns You cost me ten thousand gold coins. Unmindful of my travails, You are flaunting the jewellery as if it is Your ancestral property!

(Telugu song)

The very next moment he realised his folly and repented and begged Rama for pardon. Similarly, several people may think and talk in several ways about Swami. But, very soon they will realise and repent for their indiscreet acts. “Loko bhinna ruchihi” (Different people have different opinions). People indulge in loose talk out of their delusion. But, I have no illusions. Whatever people may say, I talk to them and greet them with love. I don’t punish them for their indiscreet talk or behaviour. They themselves must realise their fault and repent for it. If they denigrate Me now, they will themselves face trouble later. Hence, people must think twice before indulging in any loose talk. Unfortunately, none has been able to realise My true nature. They pretend to have understood My mind, but none could comprehend it in the least. They look to the outward manifestations only. They talk of My programmes and activities in the outside world only. They are unable to realise My divine love at all, which flows from the depths of My heart. However, I am confident that people will realise it one day. I always wish and work for the welfare of the entire world. All should live in peace. Even if we don’t have any other property, we can lead a happy life if only the property of love is with us. And, that love should be supported by self-confidence.

Discard The Feeling Of ‘I’ And ‘Mine’

God is the only source and sustenance for the entire universe. Everything else is an illusion. Sorrows and difficulties, loss and gain, diseases and sickness – treat them all as the Divine will. Then everything will turn out to be good for you. You say, “This is my body”. But, who are you? You say, “My body”, but you are not the “body”. Similarly, you say, “My mind”, but you are not saying, “I am the mind”. Thus, “you” are different from your body, mind, etc. When someone enquires your name, do not say, “I am Rama” or “I am Krishna”; say, “I am I”. Whatever name you say, it is only the name given to you by your parents. It is not your real name. In fact, nothing belongs to you in this world. “I” is your only property. That is the reason why we say “I”, “I”, “I” for everything.

You are God verily, if only you get rid of “I” the ego and “Mine”, the attachment. Then, you are really yourself (your real SELF)! When you say, “My house, my people” etc., attachment grows. This body attachment breeds ego. Hence, once you rise above “I” and ‘mine’ and lead a contented life, you will derive great happiness. May you all lead a happy, loving and long life! May you all be united!

Let us all move together, let us all grow together,

Let us all stay united and grow in intelligence together,

Let us live together with friendship and harmony. (Telugu poem)

Strive For Unity

We cannot do any work with one finger. When all the five fingers of the hand join together, we can do any work. Similarly, if people are divided, no work can be executed. A small story: Once the five fingers of a hand argued among themselves as to which finger was great. The middle finger argued with ego, “I am taller than all of you. There are two ‘body guards’ on either side of me. Hence, I am great.” The index finger said, “You can do any work if only I show you to do that work. Otherwise, you cannot. Hence, I only am great.” The small finger intervened and said, “Though I am small in size, I stand in the front as the commander-in-chief to punish any individual or teach him a lesson. Therefore, I am great.” Thereupon, the ring finger laughed and said, “People wear diamond and gem-studded rings on the ring finger only. Hence, I am the monarch of all.” Finally, after hearing all these arguments, the thumb laughed aloud and wound up the discussion with the suggestion, “None of you can undertake any work without me. Therefore, let us all get together to work.”

Let all the astikas, nastikas, astika – nastikas and nastika – astikas come together. That is what we need today. What Bharat needs today is unity. We have everything - love, truth, righteousness and justice, but not unity. It is only due to lack of unity that we are leading a life of diversity and divergent ideas. All should be united and should lead a happy life with a feeling of camaraderie and fraternity. Unfortunately, today there is a feeling of difference even between a father and a son in the house. The wife and husband, the brothers and sisters, all quarrel among themselves. How can there be peace and happiness in the family? There may be differences of opinion, but they should not last for long. They just come and go like the passing clouds. Why then should people fight among themselves? You should not mind these differences.

Always Keep The Welfare Of Others Before Your Eyes

I have not approached anyone for anything, though I am undertaking huge social service projects. I had undertaken a project for supplying drinking water to a crore of people living in Chennai. Every house has been provided with drinking water. Not only that, water has been arranged for irrigation purposes also. The people living in the upland areas of East and West Godavari districts in Andhra Pradesh were suffering for want of safe drinking water. I arranged for execution of a drinking water supply project for the benefit of all those people. Along with the supply of drinking water, arrangements were also made to provide water purifying systems en route. Thus, I always wish to do some good to every individual. Now, I propose to establish a University campus in Muddenahalli for the benefit of students studying in Sri Sathya Sai College there. I had watched with My own eyes the difficulties the students were undergoing there due to lack of facilities for higher education, and I was moved. I assured them that I would provide the necessary facilities. Is anyone here from Muddenahalli? (Swami invited Sri Narayana Rao to the stage and introduced him to the audience). “This person is the Principal of the Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School, Muddenahalli. He is highly educated and is running the school well. Whenever I visit Muddenahalli he would pray, “Swami when will You shower Your grace on us?” (with the kind permission of Swami, Sri Narayana Rao spoke for a few minutes offering his grateful thanks to Swami.) Thereafter, Swami concluded His divine discourse saying, “Share the joy that I gave you today with all! Be happy!

83rd Birthday, Prasanthi Nilayam.23-11-2008,

Lead A Happy Life With A Feeling Of Camaraderie And Fraternity

Lead A Happy Life With A Feeling Of Camaraderie And Fraternity

Lead A Happy Life With A Feeling Of Camaraderie And Fraternity

Lead A Happy Life With A Feeling Of Camaraderie And Fraternity

Lead A Happy Life With A Feeling Of Camaraderie And Fraternity

19

Contemplate On God, The Real Hero, For Victory

Bharat is the motherland of many noble souls who earned great name and fame in all the continents of the world. This is the land of valorous people who vanquished the foreign rulers in the battlefield and attained independence. This is the land which excelled in music, literature and other fine arts. Having been born in this great land of Bharat, oh boys and girls, it is your sacred duty to protect its rich cultural heritage.

(Telugu poem)

Embodiments of Love!

WHAT can one say about Jesus Christ that
has not been said already! Today is Christmas, the holy day on which Jesus Christ was born some two thousand years ago. You all know about it. All that we see, hear and do are like dream scenes which will disappear soon. They are, of course, true as long as you sleep. The moment you wake up or slide into deep sleep, they just disappear. Similarly, all that you see, hear and do in the objective world are also like dream scenes. They are unreal and subject to constant change. The atma tatwa is the only entity that is permanent in all the three periods of time, namely, past, present and future as also the waking, dream and deep sleep states. This atma tatwa is love. In fact, love is born out of atma only. If only you cultivate love, the entire world will come under your control.

Make Your Mind Steady By Curbing Your Desires

Do not hurt anyone. “Hurt never, love ever”. Constantly remember love, which is the eternal truth. You are not one person, you are three: (i) the one you think you are, (ii) the one others think you are, and (iii) the one you really are. That is your real nature. You say, “this is my body, this is my mind, this is my intellect, this is my chitta”, etc. But who is this ‘my’? Unfortunately, no one today puts this question to themself. When you say, ‘my body’, you are separate from your body. You say, “this is my house”. But who are you? You have to find answer to this question. How long will this house, which you say is yours, last? It is sure to dilapidate sooner than later. All these worldly objects are subject to change and destruction. There is only one entity that is changeless, that is brahma tatwa. That is love. If only you get hold of it, everything else will come under your control. Wherever you look today, there are only desires, desires, and more desires. Put a ceiling on these desires! Then only will your mind become steady. You say “I want this, I want that”, etc. Thus, you develop many wants. They are like passing clouds. Why should you multiply your wants, these passing clouds? Ultimately, nothing accompanies you at the time of your leaving this mortal body.

Great kings and emperors ruled over this world. They conquered several countries and accumulated boundless wealth. Even Alexander the Great, who conquered several parts of the world, could not take with him even a miniscule part of the wealth he accumulated. He had to leave this world with empty hands. To demonstrate this truth, he instructed his ministers to take his dead body in a procession through the streets of his capital, keeping both his hands in a raised position pointing toward the sky. The ministers were curious to know the reason for this strange request. He said, “I have conquered several countries and accumulated so much wealth. There is a vast army under my control. Yet, none is accompanying me at the time of my leaving this body. I am going with empty hands. This has to be demonstrated to all people.”

Embodiments of Love!

People should, of course, have some comforts for this physical body and fulfil some desires that are necessary for their daily life. But, unfortunately, these desires are reaching to a point of insatiability. You may live for a few years or full hundred years in this physical world. One day or the other the body has to be cast off. Hence, one should not cultivate unlimited desires. Some people have intense desire to have the vision of God. Where is God? But, you are all embodiments of Divinity. God is not separate. Men are more valuable than all the wealth in the world. God also is in human form.

Good And Bad Arise From Our Thoughts

We see three kinds of beings in the world: tame animals, wild beasts, and humans. One has to analyse for oneself whether one belongs to the category of animals or beasts or human beings. If you think you are a human being, then cultivate human values, lead a human life, and develop human thoughts. First and foremost, truth is a human value. Truth does not undergo any change in all the three periods of time – past, present and future. Truth is always truth. Develop faith in that truth. All others undergo change. You say ‘I am peaceful today’. What about tomorrow? No peace. All pieces, pieces! Hence, this state of peace also undergoes change. “Love is God; live in love”. In fact, your entire life is nourished and nurtured by love. When truth and love go together, nonviolence is the result. Where there is love, people will not quarrel among themselves. You don’t get angry against someone. When you develop love, you consider all people as your brothers. Supposing you meet someone and say ‘hello brother’, even your enemy will respond by saying, ‘hello brother’. Yad bhavam tad bhavati (as is the feeling, so is the result). Hence, you have to develop noble feelings.

Good and bad arise only from your thoughts. If something bad happens, it is not something that others have done for you. Nor has God a role to play in this. You are bad to yourself! Your thoughts have done you harm! Suppose you are happy, even that is not caused by God. That too is on account of your own thoughts. Hence, one has to purify one’s thoughts, first and foremost. When you develop pure thoughts, your life will be happy and peaceful. Where there is purity there Divinity is. Unfortunately, today Divinity is being divided and differentiated in the name of religion. Where unity, purity and divinity go together, life is happy. God is not responsible for either good or bad thoughts. You only are responsible for both. If you have bad thoughts, that is your own making. All are one’s own making. The same is the case with good thoughts. See! How beautiful are these lights in this hall! Who made them? The human being only. Hence, there can be no Divinity without humanness. Humanness must be sanctified. Human beings must cultivate human values. Then only can one attain Divinity. The senses create a lot of unsteadiness in us. They lead us to bad ways in many ways. However, when our mind is pure they lead us on the noble path. Hence, keep your mind fresh and pure always. It should not be allowed to waver which can lead us to ups and downs. It is said, Manomoolam idam jagat (the entire world is permeated by the mind). Do not think that God is separate from you. You are confused because you think you are separate from God. Not only are you confused, but your ‘fuse’ is also blown, meaning you are engulfed in darkness. Your faith in God must always be steady and unwavering.

Do Constant Namasmarana

Today, the world is facing a lot of unrest. People are indulging in criminal activities. What then is your role in the present situation? You need not do anything else. Just do Namasmarana (contemplating and chanting the name of God) incessantly. Contemplate upon your inner Self. You need not have to make use of any kind of bombs and weapons. Remain calm and unperturbed at all times. Maintain the attitude that whatever happens is for our own good only. On the other hand, if you constantly brood that so and so did this and so and so did that you will only develop hatred against others. Hence, constantly contemplate on God with a calm and steady mind. Never lose your courage and fortitude. If you do that, the worldly worries cannot trouble you in the least and cause fear and anxiety in you. The physical body is susceptible to birth and death. It is its nature.

The Atma is eternal without birth or death. It has no beginning, middle or end. It is omnipresent and eternal witness.

(Telugu poem)

Today we are indulging in negative thoughts relating to the body. You should never entertain negative thoughts. The physical body is like a water bubble. The mind is like a mad monkey. The body is bound to perish sooner or later. Hence, you should not trust the physical body. You should not believe your mind. Of course, you should take proper care of your body as long as you live; for, the body enables you to lead the life. Later, it drops down of its own accord. There is no one who lives in this world permanently. There is only one entity in this world which is permanent, that is the atma. People say ‘my self, my self’ and ‘I’, ‘I’. This single letter ‘I’ is the real atma (Self).

If a person has two minds, he is said to be confused and ignorant. “A man with dual mind is half blind”. Hence, develop single-minded faith and devotion. Once you develop faith in anything, it should last till your death. Unfortunately, people change their faith every now and then. When in difficulties, they respond in one way. When passing through better times, their behaviour is altogether different. This should not happen. Love, love, love – only this quality changeless. Cultivate such changeless love. Whatever happens, it is as per God’s will. You think you are the doer, out of your ego. You are not the doer. Where are you? You are not there, really. It is your inner Self, your inner voice that really responds to situations. Hence, ‘you’ means your ‘atma’ (Self). Faith in the inner Self is the basis for everything in this world.

Accept Everything As God’s Gift

Jesus was crucified on the cross. Mother Mary could not bear that scene and wept inconsolably. Jesus then remarked, “Why do you cry? This is natural. Whatever has to happen will happen. Hence, you should not shed tears.” Jesus helped the fishermen in many ways. He gave them bread. Once, the fishermen could not catch even one fish. He then called Peter and said, “Peter, bring the fishing net and follow me”. He directed the fishermen to cast the net at a particular place. There was such a huge catch that even all the fishermen could not pull the net to the shore. Thus, God can do anything at His Divine will. Everything is God’s gift only. One has to realise this fact and develop faith accordingly. If you are enjoying good times, it is God’s gift. On the other hand, if you are passing through difficult times, it is also God’s gift. You should develop such steady faith. If you are suffering from malarial fever, you will be given bitter pills. That is also for your good.

Good and bad coexist, none can separate them. You cannot find good or bad to the exclusion of the other. (Telugu poem)

Bad is not there separately in a distant corner. Good and bad exist together. It is only a difference of time. Hence, we have to accept everything as God’s gift. If we encounter bad we express disgust and say, ‘I don’t want this!’ You should not do that. There is good even in bad. There is good in bad and bad in good. Good and bad are like the obverse and reverse of the same coin. Only the time at which they occur differs. Supposing you ate nice, tasty food consisting of sweets, bread, etc., tonight. Tomorrow morning it turns into excreta. The good food has turned into bad matter. Thus, good and bad occur at different times, not at the same time. What we have to do in the present-day world is constant prayer to God. If only one develops faith in one’s own self, everything will accrue unto him. If you do not have that faith, all your wealth and property is a mere waste. We hanker after worldly possessions with ego and arrogance, but they lead us to nowhere. They are sure to land us in peril one day or the other. Hence, one should always conduct oneself with humility and faith in God thinking, “everything is God’s gift; God is the doer of everything”.

Your Atma Is None Other Than God

Where is God? This is the question sceptics often raise. God is in you, with you, above you, below you and around you. He is your ‘Hridayavasi’ (indweller of your heart). Your atma is none other than God, verily. Hence, one need not have to search for God elsewhere. You repeat the names of Rama and Krishna, thus identifying Divinity with a particular name and form. That which is beyond the body, that which is beyond the name is real Divinity. Divinity has nothing to do with the physical body. The physical body may subsist for a limited period only. It constantly undergoes change. At the time of birth, you call it a ‘child’. As it grows, you call it a ‘boy’. After sometime, you call it a ‘man’. Thereafter, when it becomes old, you call it a ‘grandfather’. The child, boy, man and grandfather are all one only. Though God has come in human form and is acting as a human being now, never forget to realise Him as God. Since we are in human frames, let us know God in human form. Devoid of your physical body, you can never realise God. Hence, one has to experience God only in human form.

People develop ego on the basis of their physical and intellectual capabilities, wealth and property. It is also common to see ego showing its head in positions of power. All these will vanish in no time. Even your body will perish. Unfortunately, these days people consider the ephemeral worldly possessions as permanent, while ignoring the really permanent things. Hence, realise the true nature of atma tatwa. People flock to this place in thousands and lakhs to have the darshan of this physical body. The more important thing to realise is that the physical body points to the eternal Divinity. Divinity is beyond the body. Hence, do not treat the physical body as permanent. However, one has to keep up the health of the physical body as long as one lives. You should not neglect it, thinking that it is bound to perish one day or the other. You have to look after the welfare of the body till your last breath. It is not your concern what happens to it later.

Embodiments of Love!

You need not go in search of the atma. It is omnipresent - behind you, with you, around you and above you. People do not repose their faith in such an omnipresent atmic consciousness; they hanker after ephemeral things. Hence, first and foremost, you have to enquire which is permanent and which is not. Enquire into yourself, “Who am I?” The answer comes “I am a human being”. If you consider yourself a human being, you must have human qualities. An animal like an ox or a he-buffalo ploughs the land, eats grass and does some hard work in the fields. Similarly, the nature of a beast is to pounce upon all creatures and cause harm to them, including killing. We are not animals or beasts. We are human beings. Hence, we have to cultivate human qualities. What are they? Truth, peace, love and non-violence. If you have to develop the quality of non-violence, you have to cultivate love first. Where there is love, there will be non-violence. Similarly, love, peace and truth are all interdependent. When love and truth go together, peace is the result. Truth is an innate divine quality. This is not bookish knowledge; this is the manifestation of the inner Self. There is no human in this world in whom truth is not present. However, one conceals that truth and makes it appear as untruth. Sadly, we are more interested in falsehood than truth, today.

Repose First Faith In The Omnipresent God

You might have witnessed a number of dramas and playlets on the theme of love. Rama, Krishna, Sita and Radha are all mythological characters. Rama and Sita, Krishna and Radha are shining examples of Prema Tatwa. Hence, they are referred to as ‘Sitaramulu’ and ‘Radhakrishnulu’. The demon king Ravana confined Sita in Lanka for ten months. He used to coax her frequently to become his queen. However, she flatly refused to submit herself to his overtures, saying, “You are in no way comparable to Rama, the embodiment of Truth and Righteousness”. She never even looked at his face. She pulled out a blade of grass and threw it on the ground saying, “You are like this blade of grass. Your might and power cannot be compared to that of Rama”. Such was her intense faith in Rama. One has to develop such strong faith in Divinity.

There are a number of terrorists operating in various parts of the world. But, none of them can cause any damage to you if you develop faith and love in God. God is everywhere. You should repose firm faith in that omnipresent God. Any number of bombs cannot cause the least damage to your body. God is in you, with you, around you, above you and below you. Unfortunately, people repose more confidence in temporary and palliative measures which are like peppermints, than developing firm faith in the omnipotent and omnipresent Divinity. You should not take Divinity lightly. He is the only Chief for the entire universe. Develop faith in that Chief. Call Him by any name, Rama, Krishna, Jesus or Allah; God is only one. Ekam Sat viprah bahudha vadanti (truth is one, but the wise refer to it by various names). You put the single digit 1 and any number of zeroes thereafter, the value of that number increases by leaps and bounds. But if you remove 1, the value of the number comes to zero even if you put one hundred zeroes one after the other. God is the only Hero, while all others are zeroes. Hence, keep God in the front always. If you contemplate on God, the real Hero, you can achieve victory in all fields. The so-called bombs and other powers cannot do any damage to you. The human power is not comparable to any other power. After all, who has made the bomb? It is only the human being. Then, who is great? Is it the one who made the bomb or the object itself? Undoubtedly, the human being is great.

The Self In You Is The Supreme Self

A human being should realise his innate strength and greatness. The Vedanta (philosophy) exhorts the human being to realise his true nature by a process of enquiry into himself. If you enquire into yourself by putting the question, “Who am I”?, pat comes the reply, Aham Brahmasmi (I am Brahman). You have to constantly remind yourself, “I am not a human being, I am God verily”. As far as the physical body is concerned, you are a human being. When God is with you, in you, around you, why should you have to fear the man-made bombs? Develop self-confidence. Develop faith in the atma tatwa. The Self in you is the Supreme Self. When that Supreme Self is present in your body, why should you have to fear anyone? Even if the body becomes weak, the power of that Supreme Self drives you to march forward. It will help you. Hence, may all people contemplate on God incessantly! Do not get confused with names. You can contemplate on any name. Many varieties of sweets are prepared with sugar, which is the basic ingredient. You may eat any sweet of your choice. But, all sweets taste sweet only. Everything is God. You should not entertain any doubts in this regard. Doubts create confusion in you. If a human being is to live the life of a real human being, all doubts have to be removed. The sooner the better, for, as long as doubts persist they work like slow poison. Develop faith in yourself. That is called self-faith. If only you possess self-faith, none can cause any harm to you. Even the bombs cannot do any damage. Many people develop a fear complex these days that that area is attacked with bombs, this area is attacked with bombs, etc. We need not entertain any such fear.

Embodiments of Love!

You have gathered here with great devotion, love and faith. Keep up that feeling of love. Constantly remind yourself, “I am God” “I am God” with a feeling of love for God. If anyone asks your name, do not reply “I am so and so”. Instead, reply, “I am God”. Not only I, you are also God Everybody is God. Develop such confidence.

(Bhagawan sang two Bhajans, “Prema mudita manase kaho …” and Hari bhajana bina …” and then continued His Discourse.)

You all say, “I want peace, I want peace, I want happiness”. Where is this peace and happiness? They are available in Hari bhajana only (singing the glory of God). You will get peace and happiness only by singing the glory of the Divine Name. They cannot be obtained from any shop. “Hari bhajana bina sukh shanti nahin …” Peace and happiness have to well up from the inner spring of your own heart. If you wish to have peace, happiness and bliss, contemplate on the Divine Name in your heart. Be happy.

Christmas, Prasanthi Nilayam, 25-12-2008.

Contemplate On God, The Real Hero, For Victory

Contemplate On God, The Real Hero, For Victory

Contemplate On God, The Real Hero, For Victory

Contemplate On God, The Real Hero, For Victory

Contemplate On God, The Real Hero, For Victory

Contemplate On God, The Real Hero, For Victory

Contemplate On God, The Real Hero, For Victory

SATHYA SAI SPEAKS

VOLUME - 41

Discourses of

BHAGAWAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Delivered During 2008

SRI SATHYA SAI SADHANA TRUST

Publications Division

Prasanthi Nilayam - 515134

Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, India

STD: 08555 : ISD : 91-8555 Phone: 287375, Fax: 287236

Email: enquiry@sssbpt.org URL www.sssbpt.org

Publisher’s Note

“Worship mentally the feet of the Spiritual Preceptor (Manasa Bhajare Guru Charanam).” That was the first clarion call to the suffering humanity given by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba as a fourteen year lad from a garden near a Telugu pundit’s house.

Years later, on the auspicious day of Vijayadasami in 1953, opening the flood gates of public discourses Bhagawan declared, “You will see me more and more in the task of Upadesha teaching erring humanity and directing the world along the path of Truth, Righteousness, Peace and Love.” True to the divine declaration, there has been a seemingly unending flow of divine love and compassion in the form of hundreds of discourses during the following five decades and more, giving solace and divine wisdom, guiding and goading mankind to lead a life of love, service and concern for fellow human being.

These discourses, never fading and ever fresh bouquet of flowers as they are, spreading the fragrance of divine love, compassion and grace to the entire humanity crossing the frontiers of caste, creed and colour and embracing all races and religions, stand testimony to the Divine Will of Bhagawan.

Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division is happy to present in the hands of the eager readers yet another fresh flower in the timeless divine bouquet, the 41st volume in the series Sathya Sai Speaks, containing 19 priceless discourses with the fond hope that they will benefit immensely from its ‘fragrance’.

With pranams at the Lotus feet of Bhagawan,

Convener

Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division

Prasanthi Nilayam