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The following discourse has been translated into English from
Bhagavan's Telugu speech as heard on this festival's ashram audiocassette.
It is a complete, literal translation made with the objective of
preserving Bhagavan's precious original poetic style as much as
possible. The
words spoken by Bhagavan in English are highlighted in bold black.
VIJAYA DASAMI (7th and Final Day) 26-10-2001 Divine Discourse by
Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Prashanti Nilayam
Which is the preferred flower to Easwara? What should be done to observe the regulations of the Yajna? The renunciation (control) of the senses is preferred. Forbearance is peace to Easwara. The Word (Truth) that exists is the word that is being conveyed. (Telugu poem) Today the Yajna is Complete Embodiments of Love! In the Kritha and Thretha Yugas, the Maharshis of those days performed yajnas in many different ways. In the Dwapara Yuga, Vishwamitra also performed a yajna. Physical, worldly and earthly demons were destroyed and the yajna was completed. Bad qualities, bad feelings and bad forms were destroyed, and only afterwards they completed the yajna saying, “Shanthi, Shanthi, Shanthi” (Peace, Peace, Peace). ‘Samaapti’ (completion): today the yajna is complete. We should attempt to recognize the inner meaning of this seventh concluding day of the yajna. In so many ways we are seeing the decline of the senses, the bad path of the senses and the agitation of the senses in every human being. However, all of these are that which are created. They are external. They are secular. This is only a kind of characteristic of Prakrithi (Nature). Yet, what is the inner meaning of this yajna? God continues to teach the nature of pravritthi and nivritthi. Bad qualities, bad habits and bad feelings begin in pravritthi. The characteristics of nivritthi are Truth, Love, patience and sympathy (forbearance), which arise from the heart. The good qualities that arise from the heart are always permanent. Pravritthi are the bad qualities that arise from the head and only give unlasting troubles. What does ‘God’ Mean? Whom should this be offered to? It is said, “To God.” What does ‘God’ mean? What is the meaning of ‘Bhagavan’ (God)? ‘Bha, ga, van’: ‘Bha’ means ‘the one who spreads the light’, ‘the one who gives effulgence’, ‘the one who makes there be radiance’, and ‘the one who increases light’. This is the inner meaning of the letter, ‘Bha’. ‘Ga’ means ‘the nature that spreads it’. To spread what? Just to spread the light, radiance and effulgence. ‘Van’ means ‘the one who has the ability to do this’ is God. It is necessary to recognize the truth that ‘Bhagavan’ means ‘the one who has the ability to spread light’. Hence, the light that is in us is very radiant. It is said: Tamasoma Jyotirgamaya. From darkness lead me to Light. (Sanskrit sloka) (This refers to) separating the darkness that covers it (light), throwing darkness off, making the effulgence radiant and teaching supreme peace. A nature of effulgence like this is essential in every man.
These (Five) Elements Are Equal To God All of these types of natures of pravritthi are only external senses, meaning they begin through the senses. However, there is a difference between the senses and the elements. These elements are equal to God, so they are called the ‘five elements’. The first one of the five elements is the earth. They call it ‘Bhu Devi’ (Earth goddess). The second one is water. They call it ‘Ganga Devi’ (Water goddess). The third is fire. They call it ‘Agni Deva’ (Fire god). The fourth is wind. They call it ‘Vayu Deva’ (Wind god). The fifth is space. They call space ‘Sabdha Brahma’ (God in the form of sound). Hence, they made these five elements as names of God, and they said these names along with the (other) names of God. Who is God? He is only the five elements. These five elements are in all beings. They are also spread throughout all places. They are going about in all regions. They are equal to people of all countries. Sarvata Paani Paadam, Tat Sarvota Chi Siromukham, Sarvato Sritomeloke, Sarvamato Tishtati. Feet, eyes, head, mouth and ears pervading everywhere. God permeates the entire Universe. (Sanskrit sloka) There is no difference at all of country, time and place for them. These five elements are spread throughout all countries. No nation and no individual can deny the five elements. It is not possible for any scientist to separate them. The five elements are life itself. These five elements are equal with life even in every individual. Bharatiyas prayed to these, calling them by the names of Praana, Apaana, Vyana, Udana and Samana. So all of these are forms of God. However, with the opinion that ordinary people could not recognize such forms (elements) in the right way, a few forms of God were created and through them, people prayed to and worshipped God, and obtained bliss (through that worship). Characteristics of Pravritthi and Nivritthi Yet there are no faults in the five elements. All these can only be seen in pravritthi, the external expression of the five elements. Those (faults) are only the characteristic of pravritthi. All the education that arises from our head is pravritthi education. All that we learn is also pravritthi education. All that we practice also is pravritthi education. All that is seen with the eye, heard with the ear and experienced with the mind belongs to the five elements. All of these are the characteristics of pravritthi. However, the characteristics of nivritthi are very attributeless and formless. This is described as: Nirgunam, Niranjanam, Sanathanam, Niketanam, Nithya Suddha Buddha Mukta Nirmala Swarupam. Attributeless, unsullied, eternal, always pure. Endless, pure intellect, free, unpolluted form. (Sanskrit sloka) It is always permanent. Develop such permanent qualities and make distant the unlasting, non-permanent and fleeting characteristic of pravritthi. Peace of mind must thus be obtained.
Who is Man? Who is man? He is the combined form of the three: body, mind and Atma. The body acts, the mind inquires and Atma is the Witness. Hence, the body is essential for every action. It is the body that performs actions. It is the mind that determines good and bad. Based on this only, Atma is the Witness. The Atma is permanent. It is the mind that inquires; the body practices. The form of these three is man. Therefore it is said of this human being, “When the body and mind joins with the Atma, he is a full and complete human being.” However, when the mind and Atma are given up and only the body experiences, it is called the nature of an animal. When the body and mind join together, giving up the Atma, it is called ‘demonic nature’. Giving up the body and mind and only living in the nature of the Atma is called ‘Divinity’. ‘Divinity’ only means having a relationship with the Atma. We should only develop attachment to the Atma. By developing this attachment to the body, it is turning into animal nature. Due to joining the mind with the body, it becomes demonic nature. Giving up these two, just having a relationship with the Atma, they say it is attachment to the Atma. This attachment to the Atma is the true effulgent relationship. So put to good use these three given to man and begin good practice. These have to be used appropriately, based upon time, action, reason and duty. Thinking, “The mind is here, isn't it” doesn’t mean it should be used just as we like. There are also a few limits for it.
The Nature of the Mind The mind has the power to inquire, “What should be done? What shouldn’t be done? What is good? What is bad?” In this inquiry we have to put into practice what is known to be good. They say it is demonic nature not to put it into practice even though knowing (it is good). However, the nature of such a mind has no distinction at all. It doesn’t pay attention to it (distinguishing good and bad) at all. It only keeps the body as an aim. It lives with attachment to the body and experiences all the actions relating to the body. It has no differences at all. It has no ups and downs. It doesn’t follow any differences (between right and wrong). Therefore, they say it is ‘animal nature’ when one only experiences the likes relating to the body. If you act any way you please, numerous elders in the world also say, “What is this? Are you some animal?” If one only experiences the mind, they think he is a demon. From where did this demonic nature begin? They give up the body, forget the Atma and only follow the nature of the mind. The mind won't teach any good or bad. The mind makes enquiry into good and bad to some extent, only when it has a relationship with the body. So the nature of this mind is to create without having relationship with anything (i.e., not considering anything but its own whims). The one who goes about with attachment to the Atma, giving up this mind and body, has Divine nature. Therefore human beings have to make the proper effort to attain such a Divinity. There may be a mind. There may be a body. However, this body is for working, but the mind has to inquire. (It has to) reflect on good and bad. That which is known to be good from this reflection has to be put into practice. Hence, such subtle actions are contained in human nature. God is the One who shows radiance, the One who gives effulgence. The mind is that which inquires and develops attachment to the Atma. That attachment to the Atma has been forgotten today. Man is spending life only with attachment to the body. What is the body? This is a body (made up of) the five physical elements. But this is impermanent. Body is like a water bubble. Mind is like a mad monkey. Don’t follow the mind. Don’t follow the body. Follow the Conscience. That only means ‘follow the Atma’. Then you will see the right path. Yet, it is not wrong to experience the three to some extent. The actions done by the body may be experienced with the effulgence of the Atma and with the teachings of the mind. They say this is ‘worldly dharmas’. Although these are said to be ‘dharmas’, there are also a few types of meanings. What is the dharma of the heart? That is Constant Integrated Awareness. But the dharmas that relate to the body and relate to the mental faculty are all worldly dharmas. These are all only pravritthis, but it does not relate to nivritthi at all. Yet, we may experience the nature of the combination of pravritthi and nivritthi with the integration of the three (body, mind and Atma).
The Dharma of the Body Embodiments of Love! First and foremost, these three aspects, which human beings have, should be put on the right path. Actions have to be done with the body. However, what actions should be done? When should they be done? For what should they be done? What is the result of it? Know the meaning for all of these: when, where, what, why, how. Inquire into all of these five, and then we have to enter into activity with this body. Then the body won't enter onto the wrong path. Hence this body is only given to perform the dharma of the body, which is the aim of pravritthi. Sareeramadhyam Khalu Dharma Sadhakam. Body is a medium to undertake actions of dharma. (Sanskrit sloka) What kind of dharma? Dharma relating to the world. God gave the body to perform dharmas of pravritthi. Sareeramadhyam Khalu Dharma Sadhakam. Body is a medium to undertake actions of dharma. (Sanskrit sloka) However, why was the mind given? Mind was given to inquire between the permanent and the unlasting, and to inquire between good and bad. So through what is this inquiry possible? This mind inquires through the teachings of the Atma. The mind is in the middle. On this side is the Atma and on that side is the body. So the proper path is for the mind to follow the Atma and practice the dharma of the body. Yet now they are giving up the dharma of the Atma. They are only making much of the body and they are feeling that the dharma of the body is pravritthi. Therefore, due to both the mind and the body joining together, man is becoming demonic. All that is happening in the world today is only these demonic activities that are going on. There is no power to discriminate at all. Then when will we obtain wisdom? We will obtain wisdom only when attachment to the Atma is experienced. Adwaitha Darshanam Jnanam. The perception of non-duality is Wisdom. (Sanskrit sloka) Only the Atma should be followed. There should be no touch at all with the body or the mind. The dharma of Nature is that we have to practice actions with the unity of the body, mind and Atma. So the Bhagavad Githa said: Karman Yeva Adhikaraste. You only have the right to perform action. (Sanskrit sloka) You should have the authority to perform actions. What kind of actions? Not pravritthi. Nivritthi actions should be performed! Pravritthi should also be followed, but with attachment to the Atma. You have a few duties. You have a few responsibilities. If you have to follow your duties, it’s no use if you only go towards attachment to the Atma. The dharmas of the body and the dharmas of the mind have to be done with the help of the Atma. If you continue to truly practice the dharmas of the body properly, the mind will also be pleased (calm). When the mind is pleased, the Atma will manifest. All of these three are moving about inside one body. There are no different paths. Hence, that which man of today should practice is - no matter what dharmas of the body we do, we should inquire: Are these good or bad? Will it uphold the respect of my family or not? Is it respectful to my human nature or not? Will they call me a human being in society or not? SAI: Spiritual, Association, and Individual Change So, on one side there is the society. We have to inquire into the nature of the three: individual transformation, transformation of society and change of Atma (spiritual transformation). Hence, first and foremost, we have to have individual change. We have to inquire well into all of the bad qualities and bad habits that come into this. They have to be made distant. Then there are also a few kinds of ways for this. This body acts in many ways, doing things like telling lies, entering into adharma (unrighteous behavior) and committing robbery. Not only that. Also giving suffering to other living beings. The pravritthi relating to this body does these types of actions. Hence we have to totally change this. Then we have to follow dharmas of the society. What is this in society? All things like drinking, eating, (certain types of) behavior and developing excess desires in family life are only pravritthis relating to the world. Not only that. Gambling also is the characteristic of this pravritthi mind. Therefore, this mind is falling onto a type of wrong path through these. After individual change is accomplished, we can have complete social change. After having the change relating to society, spiritual conduct comes about very well (easily). Individual change is very important. The social change is only a little sacred. Spiritual change is completely sacred. Hence, they call this ‘S-A-I’. What is ‘S’? That only is Spiritual transformation. What is the social transformation, ‘A’? Association change. This only is social change. ‘I’ is Individual transformation. So all of these are contained within the one word ‘SAI’. (Applause) Hence spiritual change is essential for every human being. If this spiritual transformation changes in us, we may enter easily into association (change). It is very difficult for us to bring about change in this association. Today association is very confused and without direction. It has no boundaries and no limitation. It goes about just as it pleases. There is no discriminating power of good and bad. In a situation like this, it is very difficult to follow the society. So, regarding all the dharmas of society, numerous people are following the dharmas of society. There are numerous reasons for wrongs to come about in these dharmas of society. Therefore, if spiritual transformation becomes sacred first and foremost, afterwards it will come about naturally in society too. Satisfaction of Your Conscience Embodiments of Love! Today the country has so many different types of difficulties and even the world is turning into a bonfire. Wherever one goes, there is only fear. There is only fear in whatever is done. There is fear in whatever is said. People are even afraid of truth. Therefore first and foremost, spirituality is most essential in a situation like this. Due to losing Self-confidence, such divided and ruined paths are increasing. No matter how great a man, no matter how highly educated, no matter how rich he is, he is following the wrong way. The name is big, but the behavior is very lowly. So we have to earn a good name through our conduct. There is nothing that surpasses conduct. It is only behavior that molds your nature in all ways. Therefore you don’t need to give up this pravritthi. However, to some extent and as far as possible, it has to be put on the right path. Do what relates to the satisfaction of your Conscience and Atma. Without satisfaction of your Atma, you cannot achieve success no matter what the activity. In the worldly external aspect, in the Kritha, Thretha and Dwapara Yugas, it was possible to count sins only on a few fingers. However there is no limit at all for these sins in the Kali Yuga. It is not possible to count them. There are only sins every single moment. There are sins even in every cell. There are sins in every atom also. So in what way can we kill a nature with these sorts of sins? The Rain of Arrows Is Inevitable Hence Krishna also said, “Arjuna, you are going to war. However, war is not ordinary. It extends substantially in all ways. The victory that you win in this war is not the proper victory.” Get up Arjuna! Destiny is very strong. Justice will win. Selfishness will be destroyed. Isn’t this always the Dharma of the Yuga? If you follow Me, you will find out the fate of a father of one hundred sons, who will not have even one left to perform the obituary rites. What (a miserable) fate! (Telugu poem) Not only this. He said: Now for world peace, the rain of arrows is inevitable. (Telugu poem) It is no use if you only earn (victory) through arrows and fighting with arrows. The rain of arrows is inevitable. The rain of arrows should fall. The flames that started on the top will enter the house. (Telugu poem) On one side, there is Sakuni and on one side, Karna. Both of them have taken hold of the wicked path. Karna did not enter onto this (good path) even though he knew the Truth. Karna fully knew Truth and dharma. No matter how much Truth there is, No matter how much Dharma there is, Man will not give up lowly qualities. What finally happened to Karna, who was so great? Listen, O brave son of Bharath! (Telugu poem) Karna was one who earned the name of ‘Daana Karna’ (Karna, the one of charity). Even such a Karna, what did he experience in the end? Therefore, the Pandavas were the recipients of God's Grace. They didn’t follow anything but God's command. Krishna went to negotiate regarding the (impending) war. However, when He came back again, both Nakula and Sahadeva fell at His feet. They loved Krishna so much. They took refuge (in Krishna) like children. They asked Him, “Krishna, what happened in Your conversation (with the Kauravas)?” Krishna answered, “Dear ones, they accepted war.” Then Nakula and Sahadeva said, “Krishna, who had gone to converse, came back again safely. This alone is ‘ten thousand’ (an expression meaning ‘very valuable for us’) today. We were afraid of what those evil ones would do to our Krishna; but our Krishna came back home safely. That only is ten thousand to us.” They gained so much bliss. Why Pour Nectar Into Deadly Poison? Not only that. There were a few mistakes that happened within Arjuna. Before that, when Krishna was going to negotiate, Arjuna said, “We don’t need this negotiation. Say that we’re ready for war.” Then they entered into war. When they entered, Arjuna saw all his relatives, friends, teachers and students. His mind became attached. That only is attachment to the body. Due to having attachment to the body there, such an Arjuna became disheartened. He said: “Krishna! How to bear killing such relatives, friends and sons of teachers? My eyes are spinning. Without wasting any more time, move (the chariot) towards home! (Telugu poem) Krishna got angry. He said, “When I went there (to see the Kauravas to negotiate), you provoked Me. You said you were ready for war. You said, ‘Come! Get ready for war! Why waste so much time? Gopala, don’t waste time like this. Tell the Kauravas to get ready for war.’ The same Arjuna who said this before, is now saying, ‘Without wasting time, move home!’ “But what kind of people are the Kauravas? They are only like poisonous insects and poison mixed in nectar. What craziness it is to make treaty with such people? I only went to negotiate for you, but actually I didn’t want to negotiate.” Is it possible to create nectar from deadly poison? Why scatter jasmine flowers over a forest fire? Why give good advice near obstinate people? Oh virtuous one! Why these words of negotiation? Why pour nectar into deadly poison? (Telugu poem) Will nectar arise out of deadly poison? Why scatter jasmine flowers over a forest fire? Why give good advice near obstinate people? (Telugu poem) It wouldn’t be enough, no matter how much good He advises. So he said: Now, a rain of arrows is inevitable for world peace. (Telugu poem) What was that (rain of arrows) for? At the time when fire is burning on all sides, they bring all the fire vans (fire engines). Yet the fire may be put out to some extent. However, no engine is useful when everywhere that is seen is burning (out of control). All efforts are useless. A rain of arrows is inevitable for world peace. (Telugu poem) Krishna said to Arjuna, “Now a rain of arrows cannot be avoided. What is this for? It is for world peace. Even a war has to be fought for world peace. One should only do that, but not keep saying, ‘World peace, world peace,’ while remaining without fighting a war.” For what reason (should a war be fought)? This means that the evil ways have increased. Bad nature has developed. Goodness is concealed. Wherever one looks, good is not noticed. Today’s good man changes into a bad man tomorrow. Today’s friend turns into tomorrow’s enemy. Krishna said, “In a situation like this, the rain of arrows cannot be avoided for the sake of world peace.” Therefore, today we should hope for the welfare of all sacred countries. However, the rain of arrows cannot be avoided in a few directions. Wickedness has gone over limits in a few directions. This wickedness has increased a lot. Dharma and justice have been destroyed. The ones who enter into Truth have only problems. Krishna said that in a situation like that, the rain of arrows couldn’t be avoided. How Can I Protect This One Abhimanyu? In a situation like that, Arjuna was sent. When Arjuna was sent to war, before that, she (Arjuna’s wife) had also sent Abhimanyu (to war). Who? Subhadra (the wife of Arjuna and mother of Abhimanyu) said, “Oh dear! The five children of my elder sister Draupadi were killed! Ashwaththama cut the throats of the five sons of the Pandavas. There is only one son left - Abhimanyu. How can I protect this one Abhimanyu?” Then Abhimanyu said, “Mother, my father is not here. My father and uncle (Krishna) are not here. Don’t think like that. Tell me to get ready for war.” Dharmaja was the only one at home. He said, “Son, how can I send you? The person who fabricated that Padmavyuha (a difficult maze-like formation in war, which Abhimanyu was called to fight in) is very cruel, evil and wicked. Dronacharya has devised the Padmavyuha. It is very difficult to be victorious in this Padmavyuha. Don’t, don’t, don’t go!” Then Abhimanyu got angry. He said, “If my uncle Krishna or my father Arjuna came, if it is said that when they called for war I didn’t go, my father will cut my throat, saying that I have brought ill-fame to our family. Being born as a son, one should bring good reputation to the family. A good name should be brought to the mother and father. What is the use of the son being born who does not bring a good name to the parents? Saying that, my father will cut my throat. Therefore, I won't stay any longer.” Then Abhimanyu said, “What is the use of my remaining? Instead of giving up my life here, I will obtain the heaven of the heroes if I give up my life in war.” Then Subhadra, unable to listen to these words, blessed him: “Dear son, you are a very great man. I have only one son. However, the circumstances are not correct. Your uncle and father are not here. Your wife is pregnant. We can't say what will happen. Give up this idea, oh son!” Saying that, unable to bear hearing him, she finally blessed him. Dronacharya, who is an expert in the science of archery, has planned the Padmavyuha in the war that is commanded by Bheeshma. Your wife is pregnant. We can’t say what time will bring. Your uncle (Krishna) and father are not here. O son, give up this idea (of going to the war)! (Telugu poem) Then mother Subhadra was giving him blessings: The kind of protective blessing conferred by Gauri on her son (Shanmukha) when he went to slay Tarakasura; The protective blessing given on the son of Bhargava by his mother, at the time of his going to kill Sambasura;
The blessing conveyed by mother Vinata to her son (Gauruda), when he went to release her from slavery; Such a great, auspicious blessing, the protection of the limbs of the body, the greatest Divine protection of Sri Rama. May it be with you as a shadow and protect you. (Telugu poem) Saying that, he rubbed paaraana on his feet (Paaraana is a mixture of lime and turmeric, giving a red color, and used as a sign of auspiciousness and good fortune) and then became deserving of such a mother’s Love.
Where Is a Son Like That? Where is a son like that in this world (today)? There are only sons who bring bad reputation. Regarding this, if we observe in this Kali Yuga, the parents are sending all of their children to foreign countries saying, “It is for education.” In those foreign countries they are living worse than dogs. They are acting much worse than animals. Parents are accepting such children like this. The parents are praising their children as good people. It is the parents only who are cutting the throats of their children. Regarding this aspect, a good, meaningful (sanctified) name has to be brought about in this sacred land of Bharath. Students! You are such great people. You are fostering numerous good qualities in the company of Swami. However, you have to make sacred the knowledge that you are fostering. It has to be put into practice. It has to be put into practice and it has to be offered to the society. If your eyes see that anyone is acting unjustly, go to them and give them some counsel. “Dear, this is not good. We have been born as human beings. We are not demons. We are not animals. We are human beings.” If the mouth is opened, lies (come out). There is unrighteousness wherever the foot steps. There is wickedness wherever the eyes look. Sights like these, feelings like these and words like these have become very rampant in the world. Hence, first and foremost, the country will become good only when you are all good people. All the good and bad of the country depend upon the behavior of the students. Only when the feelings of the students are good, will the behavior be good. Only when the behavior is good, will peace of mind be obtained. Therefore first and foremost, thoughts and resolves should be made pure. Develop truthful resolves. Enter into feelings of Truth. Follow the path of Truth. But some times we may have a few difficulties due to being truthful. Yet if the proper yukthi (stratagem, sound logic) is developed to avoid them (difficulties), that yukthi also becomes yoga. However, that yukthi should not go on a bad path. You should conduct yourself so there is satisfaction in the mind. First and foremost, we have to make bad qualities distant in a proper way. That only is the important aim of this yajna. Demonic qualities should be made distant. Nothing Else In Sight At All Rama and Lakshmana went to Vishwamitra’s yajna. Demons were seen. Vishwamitra said, “Son, now You begin Your work.” What does it mean? It was their work to destroy that demonic nature. “Then only my yajna will be fully completed.” After it was fully completed, Vishwamitra blessed, “Rama, may you be married!” In the meantime, news arrived. It said, “A hero (or warrior) must come to examine the Bow of Siva on the occasion of the swayamvaram (the selecting of a husband) of Sita.” Vishwamitra told this news to Rama and Lakshmana. Rama and Lakshmana didn’t like marriage at all! However, they also got ready (to leave for Janaka’s yajna) to see the Bow of Siva with the opinion of, “What is this bow of Siva? It should be seen! How to use it?” Yet, Rama was a bit unprepared (to leave). Vishwamitra said, “Son, this is very necessary. You must see the Bow of Siva. It is something that is suitable to see.” However, then Rama said, “My father sent us to protect the yajna of Vishwamitra but he did not send me to go to the town of Mithila to see the throne of this king (Janaka) and to see the Bow of Siva. Why should I go to Janaka? I only came for Vishwamitra. I won't go near any other place.” Then Vishwamitra said, “Dear one, you came not only for the protection of the yajna. Your father also said, ‘Obey the commands of Vishwamitra.’ He gave permission for everything (that I would suggest). He gave common (general) permission.” Then what was Rama able to do? He could not avoid agreeing. They started off in a conveyance and went there. After they arrived there, Janaka’s courtiers brought the Bow of Siva. Rama and Lakshmana were very eager to see the Bow of Siva. They (the courtiers) brought it and put it there. Both Rama and Lakshmana did not look anywhere else. Their whole sight was on that Bow of Siva only. Whatever work we have come for, we should keep our aim (goal) only on that. We have come to see the Bow of Siva so our sight is not on anything else. So they simply stared at the Bow of Siva without blinking their eyelids. However, all the people who came there were looking at these boys with much amazement. “They are very young. They’re such adorable boys! Which princes are they? Their whole sight is on the Bow of Siva. They have nothing else in sight at all.” Do you (students) see? What a great name they earned! Today if our people (of Bharath) send their children to America to study, the students forget about study. Then they keep numerous other things in their vision. People like this finally keep studying for an undetermined time. (The study will conclude) only if he passes, is it not? He simply keeps writing to his parents, “I have passed, I have passed.” Who is there to go and inquire from that university? There is no one at all. Help Ever, Hurt Never In those days, it was not possible for it to happen like that. Rama and Lakshmana put their sight on only one thing, Siva’s Bow. While they were continuing to look at it, Ravana started out and arrived. He, having such a sturdy and strong body, tried to pick up the Bow of Siva with his left hand, but it was not possible. Again he held it tightly in two hands. He used all his strength. Finally he fell down, and the Bow of Siva fell on him. There wasn’t even anyone to pick up that which had fallen! Rama was observing this occasion. He said, “I should go help him and remove him from the difficulty.” Then Vishwamitra, thinking that this is the right time said, “Son, You go and do Your work.” Rama didn’t go to break the Bow of Siva! He was thinking to lift up that which had fallen on Ravana, that Ravana’s suffering had to be removed. Help Ever, Hurt Never. Rama went only to help. He removed it and He put it in the box again. When He lifted it, everyone was astonished. There was no one who could lift in the world! What does it mean? The Divine power was in Rama one hundred percent! What do they call that Divine power? They say that is Cosmic energy. This energy was fully in Rama, one hundred percent. Its name is ‘magnet’. People were very amazed when Rama lifted it up. Then Janaka came. He said the one who lifted this up can also attempt to break it. Then Rama said, “The command of Vishwamitra, the command of the teacher, should be followed. It is only that preceptor who brought Me here. It is not possible for Me to bend it without his order.” Saying that, Rama looked in the direction of Vishwamitra. With a sign from his eyes, Vishwamitra told Him to do it. Rama picked it up with His left hand and bent it like this. It broke (with the sound of) TUK! Sounds of victory were resounding. The people were saying, “Rama Chandra Ki Jai, Jai, Jai!” (‘Victory, victory, victory to Rama!’) Here is Sita However, then there was the marriage. King Janaka came. He said, “Dear One, as my per vow, I have to give my daughter to You in marriage.” He said, “Idam Sita, Idam Sita.” (“Here is Sita. Here is Sita.”) What does it mean? He said, “Look, here is Sita.” But Rama didn’t look. Again, Janaka sat Sita in this direction (towards Rama) and said, “Here is Sita, my daughter.” But Rama turned in the other direction and didn’t look. He didn’t give any answer. Then Janaka told this to Vishwamitra. Rama said, “I am a youth. I will not embark on any action without the command of my parents. I was sent to protect your yajna and I came. I came to see this Bow of Siva with your permission. That work is finished. But I don’t like the idea of marriage at all. I will not agree.” Janaka replied, “At least look at the girl.” Rama said, “To look at another woman before marriage is a terrible sin.” When He said these words, Janaka was very surprised. “Are there such embodiments of Truth in the world?” Yet Rama didn’t agree to anything. Immediately Janaka sent the army (messengers to inform Dasaratha). The chariots went to Ayodhya and it took four days for them to return again. In these four days, until Dasaratha and his party came, Rama and His brother didn’t go anywhere and didn’t see anyone. He also didn’t go to King Janaka’s feast. He said, “I don’t need this relationship.” Rama was one who began such a determination. When He found out that His parents had arrived, Rama, Lakshmana, Bharath and Satrughna, all four paid obeisance to them. Then Vishwamitra described this whole story nicely (how Rama broke the Bow of Siva). The marriage happened. The four brothers sat on the seats. The four brides took hold of the garlands. The brides held the garlands and they were ready to put them around the neck of Rama and His brothers. The reason I am telling all of this is to remind you of how the virtue of the youth of those days and the truthful character of the youth of those days was. I Won’t Bend My Head Sita also took a garland and came. From the very onset, it was her swayamvaram (the selection of husband), which was the most important. It was only due to that swayamvaram that these four brothers could have (marry) the four daughters of the brothers (Janaka and his brother, each having two daughters). Then Sita was standing, holding the garland, but Rama didn’t look in her direction at all. He had His head bent down. Afterwards everyone, even Vishwamitra also said, “Rama, you’re tall; bend a little.” Rama said, “Respected preceptor, I am a king’s son. I am a gem among men. I am one who has a character of Truth. I won't bend My head to a woman. I won't bend. Who is that woman? She has no relationship with Me. Why should I bend My head to such a woman? After marriage, she may become My wife. However, before the marriage, she is different and I am different. I won't bend.” Lakshmana, who understood this determination, was making signs to Rama. Rama and Lakshmana had a relationship that went well together. Lakshmana understood Rama’s signs and Rama understood the signs of Lakshmana. Then Rama said, “Lakshmana, you are Adi Shesha (the thousand-headed serpent who holds the earth on its head), aren’t you! Lift up this earth a bit.” Lakshmana replied, “Elder brother, it is not possible only to lift up the place where Sita is. If it (the place where Sita stands) is lifted, the entire earth has to be lifted. Then You will also become taller. Hence, this is impossible.” Rama said, “Then make a suitable kind of alternative plan for this.” Watching and watching, all the people got very disgusted (at the delay). Their eyes were blissfully eager, wanting to see the marriage of these two. This eagerness made them overflow with a bliss that could not be contained. Immediately Lakshmana came running and fell at Rama’s Feet. The one who fell at Rama’s Feet did not get up. Then Rama bent down saying, “Lakshmana, get up” and He bent to lift Lakshmana up. Sita noticed and immediately garlanded Him! (Applause) Then the marriage of Rama happened. Then Vishwamitra said, “Dear One, I was born only for this! All my austerity was only for this. All my power is only for this. My austerity, all power, even all of this power, I am offering to You.” Saying this, Vishwamitra offered all the weapons that he earned to Rama. Then only when King Janaka said, “Mama Sita” (My Sita), Rama looked in her direction. He didn’t look till then. The youth of today are not like that. After everything has happened, they are getting married; even after children (are born)! What a plight this is! What sin it is! Not only that. They are even behaving in all different sorts of ways.
Such a Character of Truth Is Needed Our students should never do that kind of bad deed. Give happiness to the parents. Make the parents pleased. If something isn't your preference, tell them in a suitable way and give them complete satisfaction. Only do that, but never enter onto a perverted path. The nature of Rama spread to the entire world. Even though so many thousands of years have passed, now also the story of Rama in this land of Bharath is noticed to be newly happening. It has been a few crores (one crore is ten million) of years since man has come into existence. Several thousands of years ago, Rama’s story took place. Such a story of Rama is spreading, even on this day, as such a great story. Such a character of Truth (like Rama) is needed. One with such a sacred heart is needed. But even if it is not in anything else, at least in the matter of marriage there should be no wavering of mind. This is a long life. Nowadays it is not like that. They get married just as they like. Then on the third day, they go forward to get a divorce. What is the reason? They have these kinds of situations due to doing it (getting married) without thinking forward or backward, without the blessings of elders, without the grace of the elders, and due to doing it in a rambling way. They say, “What I like is my preference.” What is this preference? To go about just as you wish? Where did your preference come from? It should come from your Conscience, your Atma. It only came from your foolish looks. Therefore, it only came from your bad looks and bad thoughts. Are your words, words of Truth? No, no! They are words relating to untruth. It is only due to looks with bad qualities and actions with bad behavior that all of these bad qualities begin. However, students should give no chance at all for such bad qualities. Even if it isn't your preference, tell your parents in a suitable way and give them satisfaction. Make them happy. If the parents aren’t happy, whatever you do will not give (good) results to you. Therefore, this kind of sacrifice has to be done today if we want to give up bad qualities. Yajna and yagas are for sacrificing bad qualities and sacrificing bad behavior. It is for developing good actions and good habits. Then you will become one with a character of Truth. Due to there being no one who has a character of Truth in this world today, numerous kinds of disturbances begin. Wherever one looks, there are only sorrows. Wherever one looks, there are only worries. It is enough if one picks up the paper; one will see dead bodies. Seeing this newspaper and hearing news -- no, no (don’t do that)! Recognize This Feeling of One Atma I'm telling this from so long. When we control our senses first and foremost, no type of bad feelings will come to us. Then there won't be hatred for anyone. The one who scolds is within me. I am also inside the one who is scolding. The one who receives the scolding is I. The one who scolds is I. There is only one Atma in him and there is only one (the same) Atma in me. Therefore, if you recognize and observe this feeling of one Atma (Oneness), you will not have hatred for anyone. Then everyone will be joyful. These wars won't happen. These worries won't come. We will not have any kind of hatred. If we want to bring about such a Love, the feeling of one Atma has to be developed. There is only one Atma in you and in Me. In this, in that, wherever is seen, There is only one Atma that is lovingly present. (Telugu poem) Therefore, if we want the bad feelings in us to go, follow the feeling of Oneness. Bodies may be different and minds may be different, but the Atma is only One. Hence, even though so many people are sitting here, the bodies are of many types, but the nature of Atma in all is only One. Take an example for this: There are so many bulbs shining here. There are very small bulbs over there. There are separate bulbs here. There is a cluster of bulbs (a chandelier) here. Though there are so many bulbs, if the truth that there is only one current is recognized, we will not retain any differences regarding these bulbs. So all our bodies are only like bulbs. They are of numerous types. They have numerous colors and numerous names, yet the current of Atma in all of us is One. Hence, develop this feeling of Atma, increase attachment to the Atma, and gradually reduce attachment to the body. All of you pray that through the feeling of Oneness. In a very short period of time, no wars, peacelessness, injustice or evil actions will happen in the world. Swami will also bless. (Applause) We should not have hatred for anyone. May All the World Have Happiness Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu. May all in the world have happiness in all aspects. (Sanskrit sloka) Don’t keep differences of ‘this country’ and ‘that country’. Don’t have differences of Pakistan, America, Russia and India at all. We are all members of one world family. All of us human beings are only from one family. The human race is all only one human race. The Father for this whole (human) race is only God. So: Brotherhood of man, Fatherhood of God Bhagavan ended His Divine Discourse by chanting the bhajan, “Hari Bhajana Bina Sukha Shanthi Nahi…”
Don’t Forget the Contemplation On God Embodiments of Love! These seven days you have been here and so much of this Divine vibration and spirituality have spread around and pervaded you. All of this Divine air has reached inside your heart. Therefore, wherever you go, just don’t forget the contemplation on God. We may forget anything - even life itself - but don’t be without contemplation on God. Always contemplate on God. Along with that contemplation of God, also hope for the welfare of the world by saying, “Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu.” That only will protect the world today. Only that, but no one else - no king, no bombs, no tanks - nothing else can protect (the world). In the heart pray, ‘Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu’. Everyone should be well. Why? Because “All are my brothers and sisters.” So all should be well. Just try to sow the contemplation on God in your heart. Give up anything, but just don’t give up contemplation of God. The one who has attachment to Atma is a true human being. Develop such attachment to the Atma. Experience this bliss, the bliss that I bestow on this Purna-ahuti day (Valedictory oblation). (Applause)
GLOSSARY for Vijaya Dasami 26-10-2001 Taken from
"A Glossary of Sanskrit Words Gleaned from Sai Literature" 1) Adharma (pg. 123) Bad; wrong or unrighteous; behaving as and when the whim dictates 2) Atma: (pg. 50) A spark of the Divine; a conglomeration of manas (mind), buddhi (intellect), and samskaara (civilised tendency); Man’s true reality is the Atma. The Atma is a wave of the Paramatma, God viewed as the Universal; the Soul. 3) Bhagavan: (pg. 67) The Lord, God; a term of reverential address most appropriate to the Glory of the Lord; He Who possesses the six Divine qualities in full: 1. Omnipotence, omniscience, omnipresence, 2. Dharma: righteousness, justice, equality, 3. Aisvarya: splendor, glory, fame, 4. Sri: prosperity, majesty, grace, 5. Jnana: wisdom, enlightenment, 6. Vairagya: detachment, tranquility, equanimity 4) Crore: A hundred lakhs or ten million; 100 x 100,000 5) Dharma (pg. 291) Righteousness 6) Nivritthi (pg. 254) Subduing the thirst of the senses and of the ego through withdrawal, detachment, or internal quiet 7) Nivritthi marga (pg. 254) The exploration of the internal spirit; the inward path, which aims at stilling the waters; no agitation at all; preserving the calmness and evening the level, thus keeping the agitating thoughts away. 8) Padmavyuha (pg. 2) ‘a formidable maze-like Chakra Vyuha formation in war’ 9) Praana (pg. 275) Praana means ‘vibration’ and it is the very breath of life; life force or vital energy; positive energy 10) Praana: the five life-breaths: (pg. 276) 1. Praana-Vayu: the upward movement of the breath. It is located in the heart and its function is to move the lung for inhalation and exhalation of the breath. 2. Apaana-Vayu: is the downward movement of the breath. It is located below the navel and its function is to discharge waste out of the body. 3. Samana-Vayu: is located in the navel and its function is to digest and distribute the partaken food all over the body. 4. Udana-Vayu: is located in the throat and its function is to connect and disconnect the mind during the period of wakeful and deep-sleep states of consciousness. 5. Vyana-Vayu: pervades the whole body and gives the experience of touch. 11) Prakrithi: (pg. 274) The world, the universe, or nature. 12) Pravritthi (pg. 281) Sublimating the instincts and impulses through actions and external activities 13) Pravritthi marga (pg. 281) The outward path; It aims at creating larger circles and waves on the surface of the water after the stone has dropped in 14) Purna-ahuthi: (pg. 289) Valedictory oblation 15) Sabdha Brahman: (pg. 301) God in the form of sound 16) Shanthi, Santhi: (pg. 350) Peace, inner peace, calm, peace of mind, non-attachment; ‘Shanthi’ is usually repeated thrice at the end of a manthra or prayer for it bestows peace to the three entities in man (a) the body, (b) the mind, (c) the soul. 17) Swayamvaram (Telugu dictionary): The election of a husband by a princess or daughter of a Kshatriaya (warrior caste) at a public assembly of suitors held for the purpose. 18) Yaga (pg. 416) Sacrificial rites; sacrifice made in order to go from one holy place to another 19) Yajna (same as Yagna) (pg. 416) 20) Yoga (pg. 421) Discipline; self-restraint; concentration; self-control 21) Yuga: (pg. 423) An aeon, used as a measurement of time. Kritha Yuga: the age of gold; Thretha Yuga: the age of silver; Dwapara Yuga: the age of copper; Kali Yuga: the age of iron. 22) Yukthi: The knowledge of how to love all. |