ETERNAL HUMAN VALUES FOR ALL THE RELIGIONS

RELIGION

Religion is entwined in sacred intention,

Based basically on the firm affirmation,

That fair-play and compassion

For needy should form the basis

Of our all-encompassing efforts

Different religions as various pathways

Lead us to a common Source

And unite us all with Almighty God

No single pathway has shortcut for Divine touch

Each pathway has to follow exterior and intrinsic value systems

In order to connect without Ishwaraji

The Holy Principles – of the Bible, The Gita, The Quran, Sri Granth Sahib Ji,

Magnetize the humankind equally with sermons

Dearest to  the Omniscient

Religion teaches us the lessons

In truth, kindness, love and non-violence

And the reward for it all the sincere efforts is total bliss.

Thence we share our bliss with our fellow beings

For upliftment of faith and tradition pervasive,

And to harmonize diverse mentalities,

Mode of mind is religion,

And there are manifold hues of minds as manifold religions

When minds are confused and stop working logically.

Religion let  the clock of mind to tick on

And makes it possible to work in unison

For the benefits of its adherents.

Indelible ink of religion imprints hold ideas in us all

Our barren minds get fertile

By the torrents of currents of religion

And we learn to live righteously.

Fragrance of holy ideas get spread

And the devil in us gets vanquished

Dehumanized souls are humanized

For ultimate good of mankind

With the benevolence of our compassionate Omnipotent.

ETERNAL HUMAN VALUES FOR ALL THE RELIGIONS

PURPOSE OF RELIGION

The main purpose of a religion is to unite humans with the source. Religion, in its broader sense, not merely delves on the SOURCE but also studies about human relationships, self-awareness/self-realization, morality, ethics, humanism, compassion etc. for the overall good of humanity.

There are organized religions such as Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, etc. Through religions, we learn highest values; compassion, deeper connection with spirituality including inculcation of the positive attitude. With it, we shed the wrap of negativity from our system. Along with spiritual forward journey, the religion teaches us about the sense of belongingness with social interaction and a sense of belongingness.

SELF ESTEEM BY FOLLOWING RELIGIOUS PRINCIPLES

The feeling of self-esteem and self-worth could also be learned from the religion. Following the principles enshrined in different texts, rituals along with meditation/prayer can provide the healing touch to our mind and body. Although spirituality could be pursued without leaning towards any particular religion yet religion becomes a means to an end – liberation or Moksha.

HOLY BIBLE PROCLAIMS: For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

KNOWLEDGE AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH

It has been observed that today, we aspire more to physical growth besides are in the quest for more knowledge in different fields. This knowledge may be for our personal growth in the hierarchy of career growth or pursuit of wealth. In that hunt, we conveniently forget about spiritual growth.

INTRINSIC VALUES LEANT THROUGH SPIRITUALISM

A life full of love, beauty, kindness, truth and purposeful activities, related to intrinsic values bestow our inner peace and balance in our life. These provide us fortification against any downtrend in our growth and development. It also provides us avenues to seek happiness thus lead a harmonious life in a positive partnership with our Creator and fellow beings. By following a spiritual life, we remain contented, cheerfully while living within the complexities of life and that too with self-esteem while respecting others privacy. Ethical living and spiritual enlightenment alone can bring about the total transformation in one’s material life of material achievements by enabling him to become a human being in a true sense of the term.

BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE THROUGH VALUE INCULCATION

The purpose of human being is to get better quality of life along with peace and tranquility. While living a purposeful life, it is also mandatory that he is free from exploitation. Besides progress externally, it is paramount that he a person gets spiritually awareness for a total growth and development. For this, integration of physical science (external aspect) and spiritual science (internal qualities) is a must for growth and development related to physical culture, mental culture and soul culture are the areas which are required to be taken care of.

HOLY QURAN ENUNCIATES: The inherent moral sense in a human being allows him to
recognize what is true and good for what is false and evil.

HUMAN VALUES HAVE COMMON THREAD IN ALL THE RELIGIONS. ALL THE RELIGIONS HAVE THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERISTICS:-.

 

• RIGHTEOUSNESS. Righteousness is the intrinsic human values. For establishing a balance in our life, it is in essence necessary to follow ethical norms and code of conduct which make our life meaningful. By following right principles, we can make our balanced personality. It makes our life purposeful and we love to live life in whatever forms – happy or unhappy situations. Balanced mind is the one which follows and takes right course, following right principles such as being mindful of others’ needs, cooperating with others, be courageous in facing difficult situations, control over our emotions, having traits of head and heart, following faithfully the right path, not be influenced by false promises, keeping words, be tolerant despite provocations, having right vision and mission and make concerted efforts in fructification of that mission etc. besides doing everything with the active participation of God. That sort of a person loves the spirit of harmony and cooperation in all the ventures we undertake.

• BEING EGOLESS. Ego is AN enemy number one of a person. A person under its influence leads a life full of selfishness, always is of the opinion that whatever he possesses is due to him only. What sort of ways he adopts in life, good or unethical does not affect that person. He lives a life bereft of humility. Justice and fair-play. He is more attached to his possessions than anything else in life. He does not discriminate what is right and what is wrong. There is no spirit of sacrifice in such a person but on the other hand, he would like to have his own way of getting what he wants. He is intolerant and unsympathetic towards others. His integrity is always in suspect. We following the negative trait of egocentricity if we are irreligious.

• NON-VIOLENCE. It is following a course of action without resorting to violence or coercion for getting things done in our favor. It is basically the non use of force or on the principles of kindness and consideration of others’ viewpoint. It is based on respecting others opinions, without ill-will, greed, respecting others beliefs and faiths, following disciplined lifestyle, rejecting all that is bad, adopting all the positive traits in life, being fearless in thoughts and action thereof, that person does not fear what he does since that action is not beyond the ambit of decency. Mahatma Gandhi followed the life of non-violence and also influenced others too to follow the same. A man with the qualities of non-violence leads a life full of truth with love for all.

• HUMAN VALUES. It is based on right conduct for the benefit of humanity. It is based on selfless service without any expectations from others. We should not discriminate others on the basis of religion, caste or color. Love transcends every other trait. It is infact a driving force which helps us in having the humane life with humanistic outlook in our life. It is based on giving something to others without any expectations from others. Love is a motivating force which transforms our life and helps us for self-expansion through self-expression thereby changing our thinking and acting. It enhances goodwill and generates brotherly feeling in us. It also helps in transforming us to be sympathetic, feeling of kindness with selfless feeling along with a feeling of the passion for spiritual love. Humanism is the adoption of love as a trait for practical spiritualism. It is based on human compassion for others without any discrimination. For this, one has to have intense self-discipline, the oneness of purpose, unflinching determination and intense self-belief in God. The practical spirituality helps in self-expansion which manifests from patience and unflagging belief in Divine force. For such a person, God could be connected anywhere and anytime. This could be possible when one has rendered service to humanity without any shred of expectations.

• LOVE IS ENNOBLING. Love is ennobling and enhances the stature and personality of a person and it is one of the best values that a person should possess. When we spread the message of love, we spread the message of goodwill and wellness. With it, we come to know about the values of truth and keeps ourselves away from all sorts of negativity. One who loves others, he becomes an embodiment of love and thereby attains spiritually oriented lifestyle, adopting purity of body, mind, and soul along with purity in our thoughts and actions. But there are people who understand love synonymous with lust which is, in fact, debasing and egotistical in nature.

• TRUTH & RELIGION. There are two kinds of truths. Firstly it is the one which is perceived by our five senses and the other one is which is perceived by our by supersensuous power. The science wants things as empirical truth which religions link with the transcendental truth. In olden times, the Rishis strived for personal experiences of absolute truth. Their pursuit truth is self-realization. This could be attained by adopting moral and spiritual values through self-discipline and adopting all those traits which help us realize the truth. When one realizes the absolute truth, through spiritual knowledge, one is able to perceive absolute truth and presence of God in all the creations. For such a person, there is no attachment for any particular thing. With detachment, we remain in the balanced state both in happy and sad situations.

 

• LIVING A HARMONIOUS LIFE. For the development of humans, it is necessary that we adopt a peaceful life. Peace is essential for leading a purposeful and happy life. It has been experienced that if a person is in peace, he can delve deep into the recesses of his heart thus imbibe positive attitude, humanitarian approach and also attitude with compassion for all, justice and fair-play for all, having the trait of the common good or social conscience.

From the above, it could be concluded that all of us aspire to happiness based purely in right conduct through the commitment to equity and social justice. For the growth and development individual requirement is peace within self and also for the development of the humans, peace, harmony, and cooperation between humans is of utmost importance. The first requisite for establishing harmony and peaceful co-existence, we have to, first of all, develop inner peace first and then spread fragrance in our relationship, neighbors, society and above to all the humanity. For this purity of mind is an essential requirement. By self-analysis and self-restraints we can develop right attitude for following righteous thoughts and actions we can get divine light ultimately by following principles enshrined in different religions. 

BHAGWAD GITA STRESSED THE FOLLOWING AS THE HUMAN VALUES

• WELLBEING OF ALL. Seeking the welfare of all living beings; helping everyone as much as possible with an attitude of service
• REGULATION AND CONTROL OVER SENSE ORGANS. Regulation and control over the sense organs and the mind; quality insistence and quantity moderation in eating, sleeping, working, talking and sense indulgence
• DIGNITY AND HUMILITY IN ALL SITUATIONS. Having equanimity amidst the ups and downs of life; facing life with courage, perseverance, dignity, and humility without being overwhelmed by failure or carried away by success

 

 

CERTAINTY OF DEATH

 CERTAINTY OF DEATH

A BUBBLE LIKE EXISTENCE

I was standing on balcony of my home, enjoying the pearl like tiny drop-lets of rain which were quenching the thirst of the parched earth and also putting life in the plants, birds and animals alike. Then after sometimes, small drop-lets, together transformed into running water, after filling the small pits and uneven portions of earth. It was a real sight to see. How rain water, even in small drops could amass and could change into a flowing water, a stream – in fact a genuine natural wonder!

Rain drops were falling on the running water, taking course of water for a while and then dying after coming into contact with an obstruction. Some bubbles survived and moved ahead but their end was sure to be there – somewhere after sometimes. It ignited my reverie. Is not man also like a bubble created by our Creator – a bubble like existence? The life force of a bubble is the air inside but the outer part is still delicate. It could smash while it is impacted against any sold object. Our life too is like a water bubble. It can survive till life-force remains. Life force within our body which gives the body form, life and meaning. Without it, we are just a deadwood. Our body too is not apart from its Creator. On the larger canvas, water could be considered as the means and rain drop the cause and end is the end result of all including the life force of our body as well as that of other creatures on this planet.

In essence, from the above, it could be construed that as the bubble could burst at any time or may be due to dissipation of life force or due to loss of enduring energy, some bubbles could sustain for sometimes, more than other bubbles, yet all bubbles have their end sooner than later. But for sometimes it has its journey within the confines of its source – the water. It has its turns and twists during its sojourn when it is in existence. Similar is the case with other creations of our Creator.

IN HOLY QURAN DEATH HAS BEEN DESCRIBED: So whoever desires to meet his Lord, he should do good deeds and not associate anyone in the worship of his Lord

Man too is created by our Creator and it too lives within the confines of its source but with a distinction that man has propensity to think and discriminate. Due to this potential, man ought to be more self conscious about his existence – that it is there till life force flowing in him is there in his system. He cannot survive even for a moment without this life force. Willpower, endurance and survival of the fittest keep a man afloat and kicking but these too dissolve after some time due to ageing.. This could be due to some accident or any other reason but all have to die  on ageing.

LORD SHIVA PREFERRED TO SIT IN THE CREMATION GROUND

Lord Shiva preferred to sit in the cremation ground because He understood entirely about birth, evolution and finally death. But those who live in self defence instinct do not want to think about death. They are of the view that life is merely living and enjoying. Deah does not come in their scheme of things. For such people, human life is just like working of a machine. A machine’s life ends after fair, wear and tear and similar is the life of some humans.

Lord Shiva thought that man could survive and live with minimum needs. He lived on fruits and herbs that are available in forests. He feels elated when Bel Patta and berries are offered at His Lingum. Creations could survive with minimum needs. Humans have a special trait of discrimination – distinguishing between what is right and what is wrong should also delve on the birth and death. Lord Shiva’s assistance is sought whenever a man is in dire need.

Lord Budha too wanted that humans should remember about death. Life follow different stages of death and finally death. That is taking birth, growing, developing and ultimately death. The people who believe in this theory do not believe in the idea of self-preservation. They do not fear death. Shiva also advised his disciples to focus on whatever to be done including contemplation.

NOBODY CAN ESCAPE DEATH

Even the incarnations of Prabhu Ji’s did not remain immune to this final destination – death. There is a story in Bhagwat Puran, Parikshit was the son of Abhimanyu and Uttara – only successor of Pandavas. He was saved by Lord Krishna from the Brahmaastra of Ashthathama. He is said to be a great ruler maintained the Dharma. One day he was very tired after hunting the wild beasts in the forest. He reached the Ashram of great seer Semeeka Maharshi while the Rishi was in deep meditation. Parikshit too felt bad and puts a dead-snake around the neck of the sage when under the ill-influence of Kaliyuga. When, Shrungi Rishi (the son of Semeeka Maharishi) saw this, he, in fit of rage, gave the king a curse. That in seven days Parikshit will die of Takshaka bite. Subsequently, when the sage comes back from his meditative trance and feels sorry for the curse. But what had happened cannot be retrieved. Now that Parishit was given seven days for living but are we given these many days for an assured life? No, fact is, we are not! But we conveniently forget this and do not want to even remember the imminence of death.

HOLY BIBLE PROCLAIMS: Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.

OUR EGO PUTS A BLANKET COVER

A person under the influence of ego, which fogs our intellect, due to which we forget about the purpose of his life and we forget that he is corporeal – have to leave this planet whenever his time comes. After acquiring power and pelf, he is intoxicated with his possessions so much so that he forgets even his roots and origin and his final destination. Fact remains, our ego is a blanket cover which hides our real self.

SELF AWARENESS REMOVES IGNORANCE

Need is to be totally aware of existence and how we ought to live purposefully, respecting the laws and nature and also respecting the norms set by the society. When this awareness dawns, then the ignorance vanishes under its influence.

REINING IN OUR MIND

We do not want to remember our final destination simply because our mind is trained to ward off of turn away from this thought. Our mind, in fact is trained, to life and living and the intricacies which are experienced in our life. The water bubble like existence is conveniently forgotten.

It is a fact that the one who is born has to die one day. Time and place is not known to us. We want to avoid even talking about the idea of death because we are in perennial fear of death. We’ve to be fully conscious of death. Overcoming fear of death by contemplating it makes it possible to be devoid of any fear thus our attitude towards death and life will change.

Contemplation of death has the following benefits:-

(a) We become bereft of any fear and live a life full of care.

(b) We change our outlook on life and we live a positive oriented life.

(c) Knowing about death means, we know our final destination thus remain away from the lure of material possessions than what is required for our sustenance.

(d) Knowing about death means we have no attachment with the fruits of our actions.

(e) Contemplating about death means we shall endeavour to earn our living honestly and not adopt corrupt practices.

(f) Having awareness of death, we shall live a life full of peace and live all the stages of life with equanimity without fear.

(g) Knowing about death also means we imbibe positive traits in life. These may include love, compassion, empathy etc.

(h) We also would face difficulties of life with a sense of balance. No heightened feelings whenever adversity visits us.

(i) By following a life full of compassion for others, we shall feel ourselves as a living being with a feeling for others who are in pain and not a living body who feels for himself only.

(j) When we have the traits of following life with full intensity, then we adopt intensity for self awareness and for expanding our knowledge.

(k) By following a life which understands life and death eliminates or limits the influence of conditioned mentality about it all.

(l) When we know imminence of death, we also know about the other creations and also about our common Creator.
(m) Following life and its stages, we tend to follow a spiritually inclined life in our life and by doing so we remain connected with our Bhagwan Ji.

(n) And while we reach our final destination, we hardly feel any remorse or unhappiness since we know man is a mortal.

In Bhagwad Gits it has been mentioned : As a person gives up old and worn out garments and accepts new apparel, similarly the embodied soul giving up old and worn out bodies verily accepts new bodies.

ETERNAL SLEEP

After our earthy sojourn,

We mortals traverse to a world unknown,

Where to – guesswork abounds,

Some think few are welcomed to enchanting Heaven,

And the others to burning ‘ghats’ of hell are thrown,

Depending solely on earthy deeds or misdeeds,

Ledger of which are assiduously maintained and screened.

Death is inevitable, then why gets afraid?

Death is a stark reality, then why get sad?

When parting with our kin so dear, finally,

During life too, we experience death in small ways routinely,

The one who has seen the dawn of the day,

Will surely see the dusk of the day.

A mistaken sense of pride,

Egged on by mistaken sense of permanence of life,

Spurs us to cling to this life so tight,

That sometimes, we forget the imminence of our end.

Which is so near but seemingly so far away from sight.

Earthy inning is quite alluring,

Parting with worldly possessions so paining,

Yet, in life, we ought to adopt righteous course,

Why fear, accept the change of garb with courage and without remorse,

A life filled with inner freedom is helpful,

Engrave this idea, eternal sleep is sacred and peaceful

Welcome the eternal sleep when it comes naturally with

open hands,

For this end is not the end of cycle of life and earth,

But a continuity of a play played by earthlings,

And supervised from His Heavenly abode by Supremebeing;

the one and the only one by whatever name you mention him..

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ON TRANSPARENCY IN OUR THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS

 

TRANSPARENCY IN OUR LIFE

 

Whence our thoughts and actions

Are in sync with our intentions

Bereft of any lingering doubts

Whatsoever we do

We do in the glare of general public

With no hostility or dislike

For anyone under the sun

There is no corrupt practice followed

Purity in ideas and Karma thereof

Making the outcome most tasteful

For the proponent to cherish his deeds

For others too to observe indeed

The transparency of his accomplishments

Not merely monitored

By all and sundry but also by the Mysterious Authority

That adores us all.

Thence there are the individuals  

Who with their ill-intentioned actions – KU-KARMA

Lead a life with dual leanings

Feign transparency in their dealings

But in actual practice

It seemingly is bereft of any significance

Either to the person concerned

Or the people around

Who’ll anyhow come to know

Concerned person’s real intent.

 

TRANSPARENCY OF OBJECT AND TRANSPARENCY IN ACTION OF AN INDIVIDUAL

Transparency of an object is the property of that object to transmit light through it, so that bodies situated beyond or behind can be distinctly seen. In other words, transparent means to see through easily. Similar is the case with the transparency traits of an individual. In terms of transparent behavior is the one which could be easily understood or detected without much difficulty.

A person with transparent attributes is like a mirror – he does not hide anything.  His sincerity of purpose, essentially, could be observed by us with ease.

TRANSPARENCY FACTORS COMES INTO FORCE  WHEN THERE IS NOTHING TO HIDE

Transparency also means whatever is done is done within the glare of the general public. It is a fact that whenever we hide something, it goes to show that we have something to hide. Or we do not want to share the information with others may be fearing reprisal from the parties concerned. Keeping information secret means there may be a hidden design. 

We find that in life, we see through a person’s intentions without doubt when that person’s credentials are above board based entirely on past practical experiences. Then we say that we have belief in his/her general behavior. Fundamentally when somebody’s intentions are pre-judged it could be construed as transparent intentions. It is partly due to the fact that there is no hideous design or plot or there is air of earnestness in a person’s stance. When an individual follows transparency principles, that has unquestionable integrity and follows aboveboard behavioral patterns in life.

TRANSPARENCY AND NORMS OF BEHAVIOUR

For a person with transparency traits, actions are to be performed anyhow and that too within the ambit of norms.
The transparency is the perceived trait of an individual to pass information voluntary without pressure and with clear vision. Transparency could be in working place, home within communities/societies and within the countries concerned for a common use. On the other hand, when left-hand does not know what right hand is doing, it is termed as bad practice. This is true in business too. In schools and colleges including the professional institutions, there are hidden charges or capitation fee being charged by these institutions’ This is not a healthy or not based on the percept of transparency.

GENERAL TRAITS OF A PERSON WHO FOLLOWS PRANSPARENT LIFE

(a) That individual walks with his/her head held high.

(b) Such person is above suspicion since his life is an open book and could be read by anybody at any time and place.

(c) Such person carries with him a positive aura.

(d) No pecuniary considerations can lure such person.

(e) A person with transparent attitude is never in doubt about his thoughts and actions.

(f) Such person never harms others because he is humane to the core and also compassionate in his dealings.

(g) Such persons never shirk from the responsibilities assigned.

(h) Persons with transparent trait fulfill the promises made.

(i) Their life is like a transparent plot which could be predicted without much difficulty.

(j) Life for a transparent individual is like a game; where winning and losing hardly matters, what matters is to play the game in the spirit of a game.

(k) As such person persons are clear in their viewpoints and opinionated, fair and frank /candid, people would like to take their assistance whenever there is a need.

(l) People with transparency carry with them an aura which outshines wherever they go.

(m) As transparency connotes openness in communication, people with transparent attitude are always accountable for their actions.

LACK OF TRANSPARENCY FACTOR IN OUR LIFE.

Importantly, it is worthwhile to mention that what lack of transparency could lead can be gauged from when all the tenets of transparency were flouted by Vijay Mallaya while taking loans from the consortium of banks to the tune of Rs. 9,000. Though he was a Rajya Sabha MP yet rules and regulations have to be kept in mind while loaning out money; which unfortunately were thrown to the wind. Charges of money laundering by him is a case in point. He had a loan from the consortium of banks to the tune of rs. 9,000/- but did not use the money for the purpose he had taken. Instead he siphoned off the money to his banks outside the country thereby proving to be a willful defaulter. Not to speak of this, he has flown out to England and a case has been going on against him for fraud and cheating and Government of India is trying for his extradition to India so that he faces the law of the land for his corrupt practices. He had shell companies which helped him to siphoned off the money he had taken on loan from various banks. Now that the money trail is crystal clear and transparent, he will have to face the music.

The above instance, among others too, goes to demonstrate how come such an exorbitant amount was loaned out to him with lack of transparency, actually with tacit support of power that be including heads of banks. This case also shows how hideously the bank loans were granted uncaring for all the transparency factors and application of rules and regulations governing granting loans to the customers. In this case rules were bent to suit his requirements. Although Enforcement Directorate has filed charges on 14^th June 2017 against the defaulter the culprit is sitting in the cozy residence in the UK,  caring two hoots for the Indian law enforcement agencies.

Transparency principles call for observing some norms of behavior to be taken into consideration:-

• Transparency in Governments. Politicians should show transparency in their actions.
• Transparency at Homes – between family members for ensuring harmony in the family.
• Transparency at Work Places. For cooperation and coordination for good results for the organization.
• Transparency in words and deeds in day to day life. This has to be done in order that people with whom we come into contact believe us.
• Karma is positive when there is transparent and above board. Our action speak for itself. When we are transparent, there is always positivity in our thoughts and actions.
• There is an air of optimism in our attitude and action thereof when our actions are open for scrutiny.

 

TRANSPARENCY CAUSED DUE TO ADVENT OF INTERNET & MOBILE ETC

We are living in the age of mobile phones, computers and in that internet with its multifarious functions. Private electronic communication through wiretapping or interpreting of email, whats app and phone calls have made it easier and possible to get required information as and when needed for ensuring transparency.  Ultra sensitive nano cameras has made eves-dropping possible with pinpoint accuracy which has made it possible to bring forth the secrecy of others by the law enforcing agencies working against the interests of a country. GPS has made it possible to locate a person’s location when required and when it is locating a criminal on run this system has proved its worth for the law enforcing agencies. Facebook and twitter accounts etc could also be handy tools for information collection as and when required. The advent of these gizmos have obviously benefited the Governments in keeping a tab on the terrorists and law breakers for their nefarious deeds.

LIVING A DOUBLE LIFE

Of course there are people who live double life. Outwardly some people feign to be transparent, sincere in their attitude but when you actually observe them minutely / closely, doubtlessly they are following dual lives. For example the lifestyle of some of our Dharma Gurus is revelation in itself. While in their discourses in the huge congregations they dish out the importance of moral standpoint but do not follow this in actual practice themselves.  This is obviously unrealistic and unethical life.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNIFICANCE OF EKADASHI DAY FASTING TO PURIFY BODY, MIND AND SOUL

SIGNIFICANCE OF EKADASHI DAY FASTING TO PURIFY BODY, MIND, AND SOUL

Ekadashi occurs on the eleventh day of the lunar cycle (both full and new moon)  It happens twice in a month according to Hindu Calendar – the waxing phase or Shukla Paksha and fading moon called Krishna Paksha. There are 24 Ekadashis in a Calendar year and there are two more Ekdashis that take place in a lunar leap year. Ekdashi Day is considered as the most spiritual event when strict fasting is observed from early morning to the next day morning.

Ekadashi is one of the prominent occasions which if observed with detachment and as per prescribed rituals helps in cleansing our sins as well as the sins of our nears and dears. Ekadashi Moksha (Moksha means liberation) is a most special and most auspicious occasion. On this day Lord Krishna (Vishu’s  Incarnation – Avtara) delivered His Bhagwad Gita recital to Dhanushdhari Arjuna when both the armies of Pandvas and Kauravas were facing each others in Kurukeshtra battle field. Every specific activities performed on this day has its own significance and benefits accrued to us provided the fasting is observed strictly in accordance with scriptural norms.

ORIGIN OF EKADASHI

In Satya Yuga, Lord Vishnu had a long-drawn-out battle with demon named Mura. Due to the protracted battle, Lond Vishnu got tired as a result of which He tired and went to sleep. Mura was waiting for this occasion. He pounced on Lord Vishnu for killing Him. Then a damsel appeared from the body of Lord Vishnu who fought a pitched battle with Mura and killed him. She was actually Mahashakti who appeared  on 11^th day of fading moon thus Lord Vishnu named ned Ekadashi.  He also bestowed her the boon that whosoever fasts on this day would be free off the sins and also will have moksha finally.

SIGNIFICANCE OF EKADASHI DAY FAST

The religious rituals, given in the sacred Pranas / Vedic scriptures, and also referred to as Hari’s Day. their strict observance thereof helps the devotees in many ways than body, one. 

• Observance of fast cleanses our body, mind and soul.

 

• It helps alleviating us in spiritual ladder.

 

• Its strict observance can help us attain Moksha or Liberation from pangs of birth and deaths.

 

• It can transform our Kukarma (Bad Karma) into good Karmas thus paving the way for an aspirant to attain the traits of detachment, the mention of which has been amply made in Bhagwad Gita. Action performed without consideration the fruits or results of that action could help us attain Liberation.

 

• Anybody observing the Ekadashi with all the focus at his/her command could remove that person’s sufferings.

 

• As this day is termed as the Lord Hari’s day, its observance could alleviate the sufferings of an individual.

 

• While the body and mind is cleansed, it is possible to ward off from the three sins: lust, greed and anger.

 

• Fasting on this auspicious day is bereft of any external pressures. This day passes both in peace and harmony including inculcation of good habits.

 

• As the people who fast keep away from solid grain foods and take light diet consisting of milk products, dry fruits and fruits, we feel light and our digestive system too works wonders as it provides due rest to our system thus keeps our health in fine fettle. Healthy eating even for a day fortnightly can repair our system.

 

• As we are aware, the gravitational pull of the moon influences the oceans in the form of high and low tide hence Intake of less food item and more of liquid Ekadashi Day helps in influencing us biologically too. It has been practically observed by the proponents who fast sincerely – the diseases like blood pressure, insomnia, depression, gastric problems etc could be cured with fasting. Observance of such fasts have obviously helped me in maintaining good health after even 66+ years of age.

 

• While we fast on this day, we also meditate thus not only helping us spiritually but also enhancing the chances of connectivity with God.

 

• It has also been felt that the benefits of Ekadashi fasting and all the purity and sincerity observed on this day to the individual concerned but also to his/her family members.

 

• Ekadashi fasting helps in self awareness simply because of individual observance of fast strictly in accordance with scriptures since self realization results from self-disciplinary efforts.

 

• Self awareness resulting from strict observing converts conviction into practical experience.

 

• We learn how to control our unethical desires and lead a life full of compassion.

 

• Canvas of our spirituality enhances with the observance of Ekadashi Fast.

EKADASHI RITUALS OBSERVED

Ekadashi has its special mention in Pranas Scriptures. Ekadashi Moksha  with after having kept Ekadashi Lord Vishnu fast which most falls twice in a month, for the last so many years, i chose to observe the fast and  on 5^th may 2017 (Nirjala Ekadashi –  meaning remaining even without water). Preparation for this Moksha and spiritual rituals started on one day before i.e. Dasami day.

HAVAN PERFORMED ON EKADASHI DAY

This time on 5^th June 2017, the most auspicious time for Havan Vidhi was necessarily to be performed between 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM in which proper Havan, Sheja Dhan (Cot, beddings, golden ring and ear-rings, , Gau Dhan (Donation of cow), etc were performed with utmost devotion in the midst of which chanting of pious Mantras,  calling upon well-known deities like Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, Lord Mahesh, Sun (Surya) God, Moon (Chandra) God besides Navagrahas (nine planets which affect our life cycle). Seven of these deities are named after the planets in the solar system and are given the names of the seven days of the week of Hindu Calendar. The other two are Rahu and Ketu who are demons who got their prominence through trickstery. All these Nine Planets affect our life and provide protective shield when we call upon them ritualistically and systematically. Or, these planets could prove inauspicious as per our Karmic deeds or misdeeds.

 In Ekadashi, a devotee does not take food. Takes fruits and milk that too in a limited quantity. Food habits differ from one area to another. I and my wife endeavoured to keep purity in thoughts and deeds. The purpose is to keep purity  in thoughts,  body and soul. The next day on 6^th June 2017, there was a Preeti Bhoj or Lungar or community feast which was the culmination of Ekadashi Fast.

OBSERVANCE OF SCRIPTURAL INSTRUCTIONS

The preparation for the Ekadashi began on Dasami day – a day before Ekadashi. In order to observe Ekadashi in accordance with the scriptural articulation, we got up early in the morning, after proper daily routines and bath etc. In order to perform all the rituals as prescribed in the scriptures, we collected all the necessary materials (Havan Samagris) while sacred fire was ignited in the Havan Kund followed by chanting of appropriate Mantra Jap (recitation) different for different deities including family deities (Kul Devata – in our case Buaji, Kalivir, Maldevi Ji along with Nag Devta). All the Mantra recitations was performed by Pandit with as given by the Panditj named RAJAT KHAJURIA, who performed the all the rituals in connection with Ekadashi Moksh with professional finesse and ritualistic satisfying. After completion of Havan Vidi, Arati, calling upon Lord Vishuji with a entreaties to rid us off sins and save us from coming troubles, whosoever worships the Lord gets his/her reward and there is all pervading joy and will also be bestowed with wealth and well-being for that person… etc.

Om jaya Jagadīśha hare

Swami Jai Jagdish hare

Bhakta janoṅ ke saṅkat

Dās janoṅ ke saṅkat

Kṣaṇa meṅ dūr kare

Om jai Jagadīśh hare

Jo dhyāve phal  pāve

Dukh binase mana kā

Swāmī dukh binase man kā

Sukha samptī ghara āve

Sukha sampatī ghara āve

Kaṣṭa miṭe tana kā

Om jaya Jagadīśa hare……………….

 

Singing the Arati collectively alleviate the troubles of the devotees and uplifts  those participating in Arati spiritually.

 

On the Ekadashi day, total fasting is done from morning to morning of next day. Praying to Vishnu is the order of the day. Some people avoid sleep during Ekadashi night and they hear religious discourses and perform ‘Arati.’ But many people today will not be able to stay awake the entire night due to work pressure etc.

 

The next day on Dwadasi – that is the day after Ekadeshi – the same routine done on Dasami is followed. Overeating should be avoided on Dwadasi day. Puranas state that one should not take pride in observing Ekadashi or performing the rituals as enshrined in the scriptures.

 

It is good to go on fast once in a while as it recuperates the body. Ekadashi observance cleans our body and the digestive organs get much-needed rest.

 

IMPORTANCE OF LORD VISHNU

THE TRINITY

Ekadashi fast is associated with Lord Vishnu represents one of the Prime Gods responsible for preservation whatever has been created by Brahma and subsequently destroyed by Lord Shiva. These are also termed as trinity or Trimurtis. Besides their consorts i.e. Lordess Saraswati (Lordess of knowledge), Lordess Lakshmi (Worshipped as Lordess of Wealth and Wellbeing) and Parvati (Worshipped as Mother Divine). The Trinity or Trimurti along with their consorts are created by supreme ishwara.

Further, Lord Vishnu incarnated Hmself in 24 avtars (incarnations) with all the 16 supernatural powers. Amongst these Avtars these are the prominent ones: Rama Avtar, Krishna Avtar, Purush Avatar, Varaha Avatar, Narada Avtar, Nara Narayana Avatara, Kspila Avatara, Dattatraya Avatar, Yagya Avatar, Rishabh Avatar, Prithu, Matsya Avatar, Kachchap Avatar, Dhanvantari Avatar, Mohiavatar, Narsimha Avatar, Vamana Avatar, ) Parshuram Avatar, Vasaya Avtar, Balram Avatar, Budha Avatar Besides Kali Avatar Which Will Happen In Kali Yuga.

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ON KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM

ON KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM

MEANING OF WISDOM

The meaning of wisdom is to act in a right manner based on insight. Wisdom is also to judge what is right and wrong. It has been observed that the wisdom could also be attained from written work of philosophers and the teachings of sages. Wisdom could be enhanced through meditation/prayer, through experimenting truth in real life conditions including insights and enlightenment as enunciated in the religious scriptures.

WISDOM HELPS TO DISCRIMINATE BETWEEN GOOD AND BAD

These pearls of wisdom are to be followed in order to discriminate what is wrong and what is right by following practically what is given in the scriptures. The evolution of civilization has been possible with experience gained over a period of time by understanding the right usage of five elements earth, air, water, ether and fire through the application of know-how, skill, insight and common sense. Evolution is possible by experimentation and application of mind to distinguish good and bad. After experimentation, the fertile result is made applicable to future and the useless or obsolete one just left out. It has also been observed that accommodated knowledge could stand us in good stead.

KNOWLEDGE WHEN USED RIGHTEOUSLY IS WISDOM

Wisdom is knowledge which a  person possesses about the variety of subjects; about meaning uses in the variety of ways, their implications in the variety of ways including how best to make use of these things practically in life. Wisdom is insightful knowledge and could be construed as a cue from God who is the powerhouse of knowledge and excellence. He knows what has happened and what will be happening in the future too. In His realm, good or bad that happens in the life of a man happens for the good of a person. 

Bhagwad Gita is the treasure house of knowledge of the cosmos and also how human behavior could impact our lives.  Vedas too contain the words of wisdom, which if made applicable in real life can deliver us from problems and also help us in leading a spiritual life.  

WITHOUT WISDOM WE BECOME THE PRISONERS OF OUR HABITS

We have to train our habit to act wisely. This is partly from our family and our environments. These habits should not be superimposed on our real nature but should arise from our inner self. Mechanical habit formation or through temptation, means we are not taking into account the soul wisdom. Anything imposed on us becomes our habit and we become the slave to those habits. We also become prisoners of our desires when we do not use our inner potentials to control the mind going berserk. Wisdom is to keep ourselves insulated from bad influences both in thought and action.

GETTING KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM

It is a fact that knowledge cannot be acquired by focused attention on the subject matter. The acquired knowledge when utilized righteously leads to enhancement in wisdom paradigm of that person. Knowledge acquired when not utilized judiciously remains theory oriented and cannot come under the category of wisdom.

God knows everything has been mentioned in Holy Quran. He is the Knower of the Unseen and does not divulge His Unseen to anyone–except a Messenger with whom He is well pleased, and then He posts sentinels before him and behind him, so that He may know that they have indeed transmitted the Messages of their Lord.

We can raise our mental faculty through use of knowledge gained.

• Quality of understanding differs from person to person. Different persons behave differently in a given situation according to his/her. That person will turn even a negative situation into the positive one. Those who are having the higher state of levelheadedness help others are compassionate to the needs of others.
• Wisdom could be acquired through efforts. When we interact with somebody, we get experience out of that. Somebody we take somebody else assistance as time demands or other time we transact assigned task independent of others’ assistance. All these activities spur our intuitive prowess or vision.
• Wisdom could be utilized whenever required. In a situation where there is nobody comes to our rescue, our own willingness to excel delivers us from that situation.
• A man with wisdom cannot be exploited by others. Nobody can hoodwink us when we have the wisdom to distinguish between right and wrong and be judgemental about it all.
• As wisdom is scholarly knowledge or learning, it could be transferred. As wisdom constitute abundance in productive ideas attained through learning through introspection and putting that thinking into practice, it is evident that the knowledge learned over a period of time could make difference.
• A man with wisdom does not showcase his wisdom but it is reflected in his attitude/behavior. A person with wisdom hardly acts in a manner which is prejudicial or contrary to the norms of behavior beneficial for the overall good.
• A person of wisdom will be ethical, good moral character, A man of wisdom is ethical, moral and upright. That person will enthuse others to follow his/her footsteps. That person could leave his/her footprints/impression wherever that person goes.

BIBLE PROCLAIMS Wisdom, when used by God and good men, always carries a strong moral connotation. It is conceived as being pure, loving, and good.… Wisdom, among other things, is the ability to devise perfect ends and to achieve those ends by the most perfect means.

• Education and knowledge is his/her forte. Attainment of knowledge is the pursuit of a man of wisdom.
• Wisdom is also to execute an action plan according to the need. Wisdom also guides us how to devise a plan of action and how best to execute it including collation of varieties of inputs for its fructification.
• A man with wisdom remains calm even in dire emergency. A wise man maintains his/her composure despite provocation.
• Will when becomes dynamic, it takes the shape of wisdom at its best. It is a truth that acquired knowledge got through self-effort and experimentation thereof which gives a person the power to discriminate between good and bad, when to act and when not to act in consonance with one’s sense of right and wrong.