Amazing extra-sensory perception of sub-human species of Nature=Pujya Gurudev

Amazing extra-sensory perception of sub-human species of Nature.

                              =PT.ShriRam SharmaAcharya

                                                                          (Akhand Jyoti Nov.-Dec.08)

“This creation is full of wondrous capabilities. There are many specialties present in non-human life forms that leave us in awe and wonder. These creatures use these special faculties in sensing impending danger and protect themselves from it. Man also gets insight into several workings of nature based on the reaction of these creatures; and if we could analyze their behavior, we will be better able to understand the subtle activities of nature.” Pujya Gurudev.

Science has not evolved to a stage where it can completely understand the subtle activities of nature. We can predict to an extent the future events based on astrological calculations, but science has no machine with which they could be detected or predicted. According to zoologists, animals and birds are experts in this field of nature study. Their sixth sense has been found to be far more sensitive to the vibrations of nature than of man because of which they can sense what is to come in the future. Modern zoologists have accepted this sixth sense to be the magnetic sense organ. It is based on this sense that they are able to be aware of subtle happenings that are embedded within the womb of nature.

Sea travel is greatly aided by the modern sophisticated machineries. But these gadgets are not more capable than the mice who can detect changes in weather better than them. If the mice in a ship are seen to be coming out of their usual hideouts, then it is to be understood that there is the strong possibility of an impending storm. These mice sense first the danger and then get ready to protect themselves. The onset of monsoon can be known by the tiny creatures of the animal kingdom. Before the rains set in, small black ants carry their eggs and move to places at higher altitude. One can easily predict the rains based on the croaking of frogs. When tiny sparrows start frolicking and playing in water, even that is looked upon as a sign for rains.

Rains can also be predicted based on vultures flying in the sky. Even honey bees are highly sensitive to rains. They come to know of the rain several hours before. Then, they come out of their hive and start hovering around it. Slowly, the radius of their movement increases and finally they seem to disappear. Once the rains are over, they again get back to their hive. Cuckoo does the work of a weather specialist. It can predict rains 24-36 hours in advance. If there is rain or storm to come, it begins to sing loudly indicating the advent of rain.

The cranes found in areas of Tibet and Darjeeling are experts in indicating heavy downpour. When people see these cranes moving towards safer places and caves, they too begin to pack their bags and leave for safer places. How these cranes can sense rain even before clouds are seen is something that is beyond the comprehension of human intellect.

Fish are able to predict storms, and tidal waves in the sea. Their capability has left the scientists in awe. Fish lay their eggs on the shores only when there is low tide and when there is no chance of waves washing them away. Even if they were to err by a few minutes in sensing high waves, their eggs could be washed into the depths of the sea. But it never happens. How they do it is unknown even to the scientists. There is a variety of fish found in Japan that can change colors like a chameleon. If its body assumes red color, then it symbolizes rain. If its body is green in color, it indicates cold weather. If the color is white, it indicates hot weather. Japanese keep this fish in their aquariums so that they can track changes in weather.

Even jungle elephants can sense rain. They lift their trunks towards the sky and begin to run in groups. This indicates rain. White pigeon is no less a weather forecaster. When a group of pigeons flies high in the sky forming a single file, then it is to be understood that rains will lash without a warning. In South America, there is a spider by name Leha. When it breaks its own mammoth web, it is indicative of rains in the coming 24 hours.

                        Animals in the jungle can sense an earthquake. Days before the occurrence of an earthquake, they begin to behave in a strange manner. A bird by name Chibi is found in Japan. This bird abandons its nest a day before the earthquake. There are some domestic animals in China which behave queerly before an earthquake. Even information related to eclipse is obtained from these animals. Even the most unrestrained animal like monkey also forsakes food before an eclipse and gets into the shoes of a sadhak/sanyasi. To protect themselves from the effects of eclipse, all the animals relinquish their activities and move to safer places. It is a matter of challenge to the scientists to find out how these creatures are able to foresee the changes in Nature with such accuracy.

Parrot is known to be an expert in imitating human talk. They can very easily imitate the voices of those in the vicinity. They can predict the changes in the atmosphere surrounding them. If there is something good to happen, the parrot is seen to be chatting away enthusiastically. However, if something bad is to happen, its voice changes. This is the reason why parrots were kept at the top of Eiffel Tower during World War-I. They could predict air attacks and it proved to be extremely helpful.

This special extra-sensory perception of the animals, birds and insects goes to show that Nature showers its gifts on all beings impartially. Well, man might be the highest evolved creature on earth, it imposes a greater responsibility on Nature that it has to ensure that all its creatures co-operate with each other and exist in harmony. If we could develop our emotional empathies, we too can be sensitive to the subtle happenings in Nature.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma

Personal Spirituality -4,"FAMILY"

Personal Spirituality - 4

Family

“People are often restless as a result of family quarrels. There are very few households in which one can observe peace, love, and cooperation, and in which the environment is a happy one. No matter how a household may seem from the outside, inside hatred, inconsideration, and disobedience may be festering, and these give rise to indiscipline and eventually chaos. Because of these, the institution of family is gradually disintegrating. ’’

·        Pt.ShriRam  Sharma Acharya

·        (Akhand Jyoti July-Aug. 09)

The institution of the family must be strengthened for the good of the society. The family is the link between the individual and society. It is a kind of mine from which, if the environment is a conducive one, people can emerge as gems. Such individuals will not only be a blessing to themselves, but will add to the glory of their society. After all, society is nothing but a group of families. Schooling can increase one's knowledge, but a strong character can only be cultivated in the school of the home. Personality is also molded through practice in the home. Families that do not recognize this are the ones which encounter problems.

These days, the financial aspect is considered the only responsibility associated with raising a family. People feed their children well. They clothe them. They educate them. They marry them off. In the end, they leave them a little money. In this, they consider their familial obligations discharged. This implies that a member of a family is a machine whose needs are merely physical ones. If this were true, all of this would be sufficient. But man is not a machine; he also has life and consciousness. The potential inside him is like a Kalpavriksha (the mythical tree which provides whatever one desires), but it can only flourish when nourished with positive emotions and habits. With these, even a family in poverty can produce outstanding citizens and people of excellent character.

A spiritual outlook is the only way a family's creation and growth can produce a good environment, one in which the members can come to appreciate their lives and good fortune. If both sides strive to bring about closeness, friendship and cooperation between their souls, then it is certain that they will share the highest affinity for each other. Whatever the situation, they will remain satisfied with each other, and understanding their duties and responsibilities, will also make efforts to uplift their entire family. Such people are never satisfied with merely birthing children, but will consider their responsibilities towards other family members, and their resources (of both money and time) before increasing their family size.

In many families there is an atmosphere of ill-will, conflict, hurriedness, and ugliness. People in such environments suffer from a twisted mindset. This should be replaced with goodwill and good habits, and a daily routine that is formed on these foundations. Every member of the household should abide by the rules of hard work, cleanliness, courtesy, and thrift. The plant that is raised in such a nursery will spread its fragrance and bounty wherever it is transplanted.

The creation and development of families, if it is undertaken with a spiritual outlook, will result in positive emotions and traditions, and the members of the family will feel blessed to be a part of it. If a marriage is made for reasons of lust, infatuation, desire for children, greed, or societal status, then the environment in the home will be hellish, and personality of each member of the family will become twisted. This superficial mindset eats at the foundation of the family ideal. Couples also may become uncertain and distrustful.

If the institution of the family is given new life, families can begin to experience heaven on earth. This cannot be done by taking classes—families must adopt a spiritual outlook in depth. The home should be treated as a place where one experiments with and practices these ideals. From food to entertainment, every daily activity and behavior should follow these principles. Every member of the family should be enthusiastic in complying with these and elevating their thought process.

Wealth has its own use, as does organization and cleanliness, but it must be remembered that neither of these can give a family life. It is all right to give a child ample conveniences. However, if he is not also helped in cultivating positive qualities and a genial nature, he will always encounter problems. Such people are not able to live peacefully, nor do they allow anyone else to live peacefully. Parents are often falsely proud of such children on account of their positions, but they can never be truly satisfied.

A refined family can only grow in an atmosphere where a spiritual outlook is given the utmost consideration. If a family is unwilling to devote time to this, then it cannot ever experience heaven on earth. The members of a family should consider themselves to be limbs of the household body, and pay careful attention to their responsibilities.

Follow Pujya Gurudev’s Guideline & get Success.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma

Some Thoughts on Religion and Spirituality= Pujya Gurudev

 Some Thoughts on Religion and Spirituality

-         Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya

-         (Akhand Jyoti March-April 09)

·         Spirituality is the science of consciousness; and religion is the art of living.

·         Spirituality is the ‘knowledge’ aspect of creation; and religion is the ‘activity’ aspect of it.

·         Spirituality is idealism; and religion is the method of imbibing it in real life.

·         Spirituality leads to self-realization; and religion shows the way to attain it.

·         The focus of spirituality is the Supreme Spirit; and that of religion is the individual soul.

·         Religion is the sadhana (ritualistic modes / methods / traditions) of uplifting the human consciousness. The ultimate aim of all the methods of sadhana is same.

·         Religion is a sky which is open to all to fly in their own way irrespective of caste, color, creed, nationality, etc.

Those, who know the essence of spirituality and follow the righteous path of religion, are sure to achieve the boons of peace and prosperity at the individual level; and contribute to social harmony at large.( Amrit Chintan)

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma

Self-confidence is the key to success = Pujya Gurudev

Self-confidence is the key to success

- Poojya Gurudev Pt. Shriram Sharma Acharya

                                                                                        (Akhand Jyoti May-June 09)

If you consider someone as happy and successful, then closely study the course of his life. If possible, ask him directly – ‘Have you never encountered any problems in your life?’ Then you will know that peace and prosperity have not been showered on him randomly from the sky. His life has also been tested and tried by difficulties and problems as yours is being tested now.

When you realize this truth, again try to investigate – ‘Who liberated him from that web of distress?’ Did any magician come and wave his magic wand and all his problems vanished? On exploring deeply, you will find that it is his self-confidence that has been mainly helpful in overcoming the problems. When all the near and dear ones had left him alone, it was this self-confidence that assured him that there was hope and inspired him to resolutely go on trying against all odds.

Believe me! Your present problems are the result of your lack of will and self-confidence. You have accepted defeat without fight. You have developed a negative attitude that you cannot do anything; you cannot overcome the distress. You are finding darkness all around. There is no one to show you the light; there seems no way for you to get rid of the suffering. Now awaken your self-confidence, and with an optimistic attitude evaluate the resources at hand, though they might appear relatively meager, and try to utilize them to solve your problems. Within a short time you will find that the circumstances have started changing for the better; the hopelessness has turned into hope and failure has started turning into success.

Follow Pujya Sadguru’s Guideline & get Success.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma

Think! Who are you? = Pujya Gurudev

Think! Who are you?

Pujya sadguru Pt.ShriRam Sharma known as a Great Spiritual & Social Reformer.He Wrote So many books in every important subject.Gurudev Says about a person should know “Who are you”

1. SOHUM (I am That): Indeed potentially I am That Absolute Truth - Consciousness incarnated in human form. Attaining higher spiritual levels are easy for me. I am a Sadhak (devotee) whom Yug Rishi has given an opportunity to do Sadhana towards Self-Realization.

 2. SHIVOHUM (I am akin to Lord Shiva): Shiva means auspicious. Essentially I am a blessed person; so how can there be any place for evil in my thoughts, feelings or actions? If any inappropriate trait has stuck to me due to bad company/surroundings, it is foreign to my essential nature and I resolve to rid myself of this dross.

3. SACHCHIDANANDOHUM (My intrinsic Nature is � Truth � Consciousness - Bliss): Why should I be affected by falsehood? Why should I chase a mirage? I am innate bliss; why should I vainly seek happiness in the transient world?

 4. AYMATMA BRAHMA (Thy soul is a Spark of Brahma (Divine)): As the ocean is water so also is a drop. Every ray of the Sun has the qualities of its Radiator. Howsoever small the Soul confined by the ego may seem it has the capacity of uniting with its origin � Brahma. Both tap and tank are capable of giving water. So why should I remain caged in the false sense of identity with the ego and feel miserable; why not become Omnipresent?

 5. TATVAMASI (You are That): You inherit the attributes of the Supreme Soul and the whole creation is your embodiment. We are sparks of the Eternal and Imperishable spirit and our souls are here on their upward path to immortality. The essence of our Being is the Supreme Spirit (Parmatma � Brahma) � the source of the creative cosmic play; and we are here to awaken to the Reality of true identity.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma

Sound Therapy: An Ancient Science of Healing= Pujya Gurudev

Sound Therapy: An Ancient Science of Healing

Pujya Sadguru Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya Wrote Lot of books on Science & Spirituality.Sadguru says Sound Therapy is a most useful in Healing.(Akhand Jyoti March-April 09)

Significant scientific research on demonstration and measurement of sonic energy has been carried out in the modern age of advanced technology. This includes pioneering research in the area of ultrasound in USA and Germany. The applications of ultrasonic and infrasonic technology range from strategic weapons to biomedical instruments, from brainwashing to sound therapy and from telecommunications to remote control of the spacecrafts.

The early applications of ultrasound in medicine and surgery had received worldwide publicity. Some reported incidents in this regard include the following: A severe backache of a lawyer in Paris was cured in just five minutes. The late American President Mr. J. F. Kennedy had once suffered from backache and muscular stiffness while he was participating in a tree-plantation programme somewhere in Canada. He was instantly treated by ultrasound therapy by his personal doctor, Dr. Trawell. The physical disabilities of over ninety children, who were suffering from Polio or Arthritis, were cured in Paris by the same therapy. The otherwise ‘permanent’ mole of a patient in Germany was completely removed in a fortnight through regular treatment by ultrasound for a few seconds every day.

The research on sound therapy carried out by Dr. Leislier Lasanio of Vienna has also been significant in terms of investigation into an ancient branch of knowledge through modern scientific means. His experiments on yoga, along with recitation of “Oa®”, have shown very positive effects on a large number of patients in his sanatorium.

The three vowels –– (a), –– (u) and –– (®) involved in O®k³ra (the omnipresent n³da of “Oa®”) represent, in terms of the power of Ïabda, the three perennial tendencies of Nature and consciousness – sat, raj and tam. The divine powers of the Divine Trinity: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva - are symbolically represented as the powers of Ïabda subliminally enfolded in these vowels – to signify the absolute completeness of this the self-existent syllable (Oa®) and its eternal musical sound "Oa®k³ra".

The four Vedas and other Indian scriptures of yore, including the Âyurveda – the ancient medical science - and the Gandharva Veda – the ancient art of music and dancing - are supposed to be the richest sources of knowledge on the perceivable powers of Ïabda and N³da.

Mantra Cikits³ has been an important branch of ancient Indian Medicine. This is a sublime sound therapy and science of healing of the body and the mind derived from the principles of Mantra Vijó³na. Even today, the use of this ‘esoteric’ mode of treatment is quite popular – especially in the interior parts of India - for eliminating the poisonous effects of biting by snakes, scorpions, dogs, lizards etc. Mantra therapy is also applied for curing a variety of diseases including jaundice, typhoid, epilepsy, hysteria, etc. An article entitled ‘Ïabda Brah® K³ Pratºka Mantra’ is worth mentioning in this context. In this article (c.f. The Hindi digest ‘K³dambinº’; December’ 1967; p. 18), the author, Shri Govinda Shastri has also described one such incident in detail where he had witnessed a complete and quick (just in two days!) cure of severe jaundice by the mantra cikits³.

The following quote of Yoga VaïiÌÚha (Ïloka no. 6|1|8|1|39) throws light on the power of Mantra Cikits³:

Yath³ Vireka Kurvanti Harºtakya Swabh³vata¡ |

Bh³van³vaïata¡ K³rya That³ Paralav³daya¡ ||

Meaning: As Harad (a medicinal herb) activates the digestive system by almost instant cleansing of the stomach, the enunciation – accompanied by thorough mental concentration and faith, of the special syllables like "Ya", "Ra", "La", "Va"..., of the mantras also create definite effects on the body.

The Caraka Sanhit³ and the SuÌruta Sanhit³ of Âyurveda mention in detail mantra-based therapies against delirium, high fever, asthma, diabetes, jaundice, tuberculosis and some kinds of cardiac-diseases and mental disorders. The S³ma Veda focuses upon different methods of composing the rhythms for vedic mantras that play important role in sound therapy. The modes of pronunciation of mantra-syllables and the methods of chanting of the mantras in musical orders – for therapeutic applications – fall into the category of Ïabdika BhaiÌaja. There are four types of BhaiÌajas described in the BhaiÌaja Tantra, a treatise on the ancient Indian medicine and pharmacology. These are categorized as the pawanaukaÌa, jalaukaÌa, vanaukaÌa and ï³bdika. The mechanism by which tantra and mantra affect the gross (including the activities at the points of contacts at the tongue, palate and the throat during pronunciations) and the subtle components (e.g. the endocrine glands) of the human body are also discussed in detail in these and related treatises. Each mantra is designed here in a highly specialized manner to generate specific energy and functional potential.

Scientific investigations show that the vibrations produced by large-scaled collective japa or chanting of a mantra collide with the ionosphere and thus affect the geo-magnetism and the Schumann’s resonance. The echo of the reflected vibrations affects the earth's atmosphere. It is interesting to note that the electromagnetic waves generated by the Schumann’s resonance have the same frequency (around 7 – 13 cycles per sec) as that of the alpha-waves recorded in the EEG of a person performing the japa of the G³yatrº Mantra in a state of deep meditation. The suprasonic effects of mantras are said to effectuate – (i) the occult expertise of cursing or blessing respectively, to cause or cure the physical and psychological ailments / disabilities; and (ii) the t³ntrika means of influencing one's body and mind by m³raña, mohana, ucc³tana, abhic³ra, katyagh³ta...., etc. These should be analyzed along the lines of the electromagnetic manifestations – which have a direct bearing upon the functioning of the brain - of the japa-s³dhan³ of the selected mantras.

Another stream of Ïabda with enormous potential in sound therapy deals with its melodious form indwelling in music. The soothing effects of sonorous music in giving instant relief from mental tension and in curing some psychological disorders are well known. More importantly, the t³la (rhythm) and swara (accent or basic note) of the musical patterns offer a wide spectrum of compositions which could be designed for curing or controlling specific hormonal disorders and associated physiological and mental aberrations.

The Indian classical music is rich in a variety of such compositions (r³gas) that could be made more effective if played along with the strong accomplishment of classical instruments like – sit³ra, vºñ³, tabal³, m—adanga®, or t³napur³. Six ancient r³gas (tunes/compositions) of the Indian classical music have been mentioned in the Gandharva Veda; namely, the – Ïrº R³ga, Bhairava R³ga, Hindola R³ga, Malkaunsa R³ga, Vih³ra R³ga and the Megha R³ga. About five to six varieties or subclasses of these r³gas are also considered to be of great importance. The ancient musicians have also devised several other compositions by specific combinations of these r³gas. The modes, moods and timings associated with the applications of such compilations are also described in the shastras. The Gandharva Veda cites –

Jap³di AÌtaguñama Dhy³nad¡ Dhy³n³di AÌta Guña® Tapa¡ |

Tapas³ AÌta Guña® G³na® G³n³ta Partapara® ||

The success of the deep impact of the vocal music primarily depends upon the (spiritual) levels of the consciousness of the singer and the audience. This fact should be kept in mind while designing any experiment on the supernatural effects (for instance, the amazing potentials, of the r³gas – Deepak, Meghamalh³ra, Mohan, Ïankar and Ïrº, as described earlier) of the significant r³gas. Several research laboratories around the world – including the Maharshi Gandharva Veda Vidy³ Pºtha and the Brah® Varchas Research Center, Shantikunj, Hardwar in India – are engaged in conducting experiments to analyze the effects of the rhythmic chanting of some veda-mantras upon human body and mind. It is quite likely that the audio disks and cassettes of the ‘Vaidik Hymns in different r³gas’ would become integral parts of the health support systems in the sanatoriums and intensive care units of the future.

How the musical sound would affect a disorderly (diseased) state is explained in detail in the ancient scriptures. The basic principles of Âyurveda have emerged from the concept of defining/ classifying a human body's system in terms of three basic natural properties – v³ta, pitta and kapha. Corresponding to the characteristic features of these three tendencies, there is a mention in the Gandharva Veda about their respective musical properties viz., samyak t³rat³ of v³ta, samyak tºvrat³ of pitta and samyak m³dhurya of kapha.

As v³ta, pitta and kapha have a direct bearing upon the intra-body functions that are based on the use of air (e.g. O₂ in oxidation reactions), heat (e.g. in various thermodynamic regulations) and water (e.g. the aqueous medium for bio-molecular binding) respectively, so have their musical analogues – the t³rat³s. The ancient Indian schools of medical sciences had recommended the study of the treatise on music and sound – like the Gandharva Veda, as an integral part of the study of Âyurveda. The expert vaidyas (the Âyurvedic doctors) those days used to have an expertise and practical efficiency in the Indian classical music as well.

Some treatises on relationship between classical music and Âyurveda mention that – R³ga Bhairavº is most suitable in curing the diseases caused by the imbalance of kapha; R³ga Malh³ra Saurat and Jaijaivantº have positive effects in controlling mental instabilities, short-temper, ...., etc. The following r³gas are also prescribed as ‘effective remedies’ – R³ga Ass³varº for purification of blood; R³ga Bhairavº for eliminating the physical sufferings due to tuberculosis, asthma, chronic cough and some other diseases of the respiratory system; R³ga Pancham for treatment of ailments of the liver, stomach and the digestive system; R³ga Hindola for increasing and purifying the lymph and serum and strengthening the liver and spleen. Famous examples of related applications include – King R³ja Singh’s relief from insomnia through the R³ga Puriya, sung by the great singer Baij¿ B³var³; instant cure of insomnia of the Italian dictator Mussolini by the effects of the classical r³gas sung by Pt. Omk³ranath Thakur, etc. Similar historical incidences are said to be associated with eminent musicians like Pandit Pulaskar and the Dagar brothers.

Inspired by the impact of ultrasound in medical technology, some modern scientists have also begun to experiment on the power of music in maintaining the normal (healthy) functioning of the body. Some examples cited earlier in connection with the positive effects of sound therapy elucidate encouraging outcome of this research. Significant experiments on use of music as a promising therapy have also been conducted at the center established by Dr. Ralf Lawrence Hoy in Pittsburgh. Dr. Podolsky and Dr. Berner Macfeden also make use of sound-therapy for effective treatment of their patients.

A collaborative research between modern medical science and ancient sciences of mantra vijó³n and classical music would offer more fruitful applications of the vital power of Ïabda in improving the pr³ña (natural vital energy) levels. This would mark a definite step towards holistic healthcare.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru.

Shiv Sharma

The true form of religion= Pt.Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

The true form of religion

“The true form of the religion is actually just that which exists in them in the form of timeless principles. Only by accepting that spiritual element and by infusing it into practical life would do good to all; and the human society would savor the taste of peace and happiness. ’’=Pt. Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

                                                                                      ( Akhand Jyoti Jul.Aug.09)

A glance at various religious communities of the world known by the names like Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Taoists, Confucians, Jains, Buddhists, Jews etc is enough to realize that their external form and methods are world apart. It is logical that these differences exist because the circumstances and environments in which these religions were formed and expanded had to naturally cast their impression upon them. Based upon location, prevalent times, and circumstances, whatever principles and codes of conduct the wise men, avatars and great men put forth to enhance good qualities and suppress inferior tendencies, began to be called religions over a period of time. So it is natural that their outer forms are so very different. Still as far as the fundamental principles are concerned, they are the same in all so called religions.

All agree to the fact that the ultimate aim of human life is to establish oneness with the all-pervasive entity.All existing religions in one form or the other have accepted the importance of prayers in one form or the other and have included it into the daily routine.

Dr Brill a famous American psychiatrist has stated that any person who is religious in the true sense can never fall prey to mental disorders. Psychologists and psychoanalysts have also agreed that the prayers which are a component of religious rites and the self study of good thoughts work like a potent vaccine against mental disorders and psychosomatic diseases arising from baneful and inferior thinking.Famous thinker Dale Carnegie has written, “No man is capable enough to fight against all complications and complexities of life and succeed all alone. To win this battle prayers to God with sincere faith and belief need to be resorted to.”

A Muslim saint has said, “Relation of the soul is with ilm (knowledge) and honesty; for it there is no distinction between Hindus, Muslims, Christians, etc.”Famous Christian preacher Justin has said, “All the great channels of thought, whichever religion or country they may belong to, are directions given by God to all men”. It is stated in Shiv Mahima that – like so many rivers that come around from different places finally merge into the sea, in the same way human beings, following different religions according to their nature, reach the same God.Another scholar has written, “As many breaths come through men’s nostrils those many paths are there to reach God”.

Confucius the famous philosopher of China has stated, “Intuitions of different religions do not contradict but complement each other.”According to famous saint Zoroaster, “We believe in and revere all those religions which teach honesty and righteousness.”

Yogeshwar Krishna has clearly stated in Bhagavadgita that all men following multiple paths finally reach me in the end.

Several wise men and sages have agreed that the ideals and principles described in different religions are eternal.Ecclesiastics mention – “Is there any ideal that can be called new? Each principle has been in existence forever and is prescribed to in all religions.”Hazrat Mohammed called upon people of all religious communities and said – “come and let us together think about all that is same between you and us.” Charak has written – “We must focus on the unity of all religions. If we concentrate only upon the disparity of their outer forms, it would lead to a certain downfall of humanity.”

All the communal riots and disturbances are a result of one sided point of view in which differences between religions are assumed by looking at their external form. Due to their narrow mindedness, people do not pay attention to that fundamental unity of religions with which they originated.

A Japanese saint said – Shinto, Confucianism, and Buddhism all three religions are different branches of the same tree of religion. Japanese people imbibed the basic elements of religion. They did not fall into the trap of differentiating religions based upon their exterior form and zealously progressed on the path of sustained development.

The above exposition leads to just the conclusion that though outward appearances and activities of various religions may look different but the central spiritual element is the same in all. The true form of the religion is actually just that which exists in them in the form of timeless principles. Only by accepting that spiritual element and by infusing it into practical life would do good to all; and the human society would savor the taste of peace and happiness.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru 

Features of the Face Indicate Your Personality.=Pujya Gurudev

Features of the Face Indicate Your Personality

Sadguru Wrote about SAMUDRIC Shastra A Scientific Method of Future Forcasting. Sadguru sayes Scientific facts about Samudric Shastra ( Akhand Jyoti Jan.fab.09)

Features of the Face Indicate Your Personality Samudrik Shastra is the scripture of interpreting the features of the body and foretelling the future based on that. One can tell about the mental and emotional capacity of a person; about his inherent nature and about several incidents that will shape his future based on the clear signs on the body and its other aspects. This science is known as chiromancy or palmistry in English and ‘Sham-e-Kayaptaa’ in Urdu, meaning - ‘the art of reading the lines of the palm’. There are several branches of this great science, out of which palmistry is the most popular. There are differences of opinion regarding the origin and development of this science called Samudrik Shastra. It is believed that a rishi named ‘Samudra’ was the proponent of this science. According to a puranic story, once rishi Samudra saw divine marks on the body of Lord Vishnu who was relaxing on Seshanag (cobra coach) and deduced that these marks on the divine body are the reason for the glory of the Lord.

 He then concluded that anyone with such marks on his / her body will have these special traits in his / her personality. This was the fundamental principle of Samudrik Shastra which, over a period of time, has developed into a science that is known as astrology today. In our country, it is believed that this science comes from an ancient tradition. There is also a belief that this science was taught by Lord Shiva to Goddess Parvati. It has spread to various other countries too. Cheiro – a western astrologer was an expert in this science and was quite famous in his times. In Samudrik Shastra, various parts of the body are observed to foretell the mental state, samskaras (impressions), habits, etc of a person. In this context, face is a very important point of reference.

People beget faces of various shapes owing to their karma in the previous lives. In the course of observing the face, the distance between the ears and distance between the forehead and chin are measured. Eyes, lips, nose, cheeks, ears and shoulders are also subtly analyzed. According to the experts in Samudrik Shastra, the face of a person is influenced by the planets and hence the characteristics of the person are in accordance with the characteristics of the planet. With the effect of Sun, a person has a round face, an attractive chin and a beautiful nose. Such a person has handsome face, thin and red lips, long, deep and black eyes, thick arms, high cheekbones and curly hair. His voice is loud and attractive. He tends to speak fast also.

 Such people are typically generous, truthful and friendly; think clearly, are good orators and possess very sharp intellect. These people shun blind faith and are easily excited because they do not tolerate injustice. They are self-reliant and indulge in excessive spending. Such people are greatly interested in women and take very good care of their wives and children. A person influenced by Moon has a round and effulgent face. He is peaceful, cool-natured, handsome and possesses an attractive personality. Since they are kapha-dominant, they are able to keep their anger under check.

Their eyes are big and charming. Such people are lovers of beauty, imaginative and see dreams. Hence, they are typically artists or poets. They are lovers of poetry, music and other fine arts. This might also be their profession. Such people are specially liked by women. A person under the influence of Mars has a small head, raised forehead, tough cheeks, dry skin, lush and curly hair, long face, red eyes, black and shaggy arms. These people are usually very tall. They are of aggressive and egoistic nature. If someone were to challenge their ego, then they can become violent, too.

That is why such people like battle. A survey shows that most of the soldiers in the army are influenced by Mars. These people do not believe in compromise; and try to resolve everything with fight and display of their prowess. Since they are pitta-dominant, their health is shaky. Such people are interested in horse-riding, wrestling and in occult sciences. Those with a tiger-shaped face are said to be influenced by Mercury. Such people have wide face, big teeth, broad body, thin chin, honey-colored or blue eyes, fair complexion and lustrous hair. Looking at such a body constitution, people tend to think that they are violent in nature, but these people are very satvic and of genial nature and character. These people are extremely industrious, generous, thoughtful, loving, and religious; and take interest in fine arts. These people like to collect artifacts and take great interest in decorating their homes.

Their lives are very organized and so is their style of organizing things. Though they are organized and disciplined, they possess a fickle mind. If they overcome this fickleness then they can become great achievers. Such people are usually teachers and give great respect to women. They like green color and hence are nature-lovers. Perfumes are their primary weakness. A person influenced by Jupiter has a round face, healthy and heavy head, dimpled chin, shapely neck, curly and black hair, high nose, red eyes and fair complexion. They are soft-spoken and hence they excel in winning the hearts of others. They have good leadership skills. They are intelligent, scholarly, ambitious, self-reliant, serious, thoughtful, generous and farsighted. The life of such people is highly disciplined and they cannot tolerate indiscipline. Such people follow extreme restraint in their life style and food habits.

This is the reason why other people cannot easily mingle with them. They are held in high esteem by the society. They become popular by virtue of their generosity. By middle age, they lose their hair but this is said to be indicative of their scholarly nature. They are lovers of nature and love to visit sacred rivers. A person influenced by Venus has a long and prominent face. Attractive eyes are their foremost specialty. Women are attracted towards their beautiful eyes. These people have abundant grace of the Lord of Love (Cupid). Hence they are extremely emotional, romantic, influential and talkative. Since their talkativeness is at par with the women, they are easily attracted towards them. They have handsome and well-built body which is very attractive. They have a beautiful row of teeth, long nose and all the parts of the body are beautifully chiseled. Their voice is so sweet that one is never be tired of listening to them. The magic in the voice is attributed to their attractive personality.

They are typically lovers of music and hence inherently emotional. The influence of Saturn makes the face of a person oval or egg-shaped. They have small eyes, pointed nails, high cheekbones, thin and big lips. All the traits of their physical body point to their suspicious nature. Looking at their positive qualities, they are fearless, good at mathematics and tend to be aloof. They are staunch materialists and lack interest in spirituality. They are stubborn, fickle and are averse to sex. They lack sense of etiquette and dressing. Because of the influence of Saturn, such people are prone to downfall of character. In addition to the influence of planets, there are faces of other shapes too. They are faces that are square, round, oval, shivaling shaped. There are faces that resemble birds and animals and such people have their own distinct qualities. A square-faced person typically imbibes great human ideals in his life.

 They are attracted towards materialism and other comforts. Women who have a square face live a happy and contented life. A person who has a face of the shape of a Shivling is well-established, generous, helpful and reticent and possesses good character. Scientists, philosophers, saints and Mahatmas typically have this face. They are also spiritual in nature. They are endowed with godly nature, detachment, devotion, knowledge, intelligence, discrimination and other lofty qualities. People with round face are emotional and expressive by nature. Hence they can be good poets, singers, actors, physicians or social workers. Women with a round face are of good character, good home-makers and are generous by nature.

 Round-faced men are good at delegating their responsibilities and possess immense dedication and concentration. They believe in completing work quickly. They are soft-natured and possess an unwavering mind. Dog-faced people are service-oriented, loyal, courageous and witty. They tend to get their work done even at the expense of other’s inconvenience. Crow-faced people are dark, shameless and possess evil character and are aggressive in nature. Parrot-faced people are unfaithful. They speak sweetly but are not so. They have very good memory and they use this trait for selfish ends. Goat-faced people are interested in materialistic life and are selfish and slave to taste. Monkey-faced people like to live in jungles. They are interested in materialistic pleasures and money. They possess ordinary intellect. Bull-faced people are dutiful, obedient, industrious and extremely humble.

According to Samudrik Shastra, the features of the face have their distinct significance. Though in ordinary sense, all these are taken into account, a person with his own sustained efforts and tapasya can nullify or diminish these negative traits. Ashtavakra who had a body that was bent at several places, and ugly Socrates strived to enhance their noble character because of which they increased their inner beauty and became immortal in history. In extreme contradiction is the case of a beautiful body that is devoid of noble qualities. By continued and determined effort, one can positively transform the entire set of capabilities and qualities of one’s personality. Such a person emerges with a refined personality which is the forte of human life. We should learn to make the best of our lives.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sdguru.

Shiv Sharma

Change – The First Step towards Progress- Pt.Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

Change – The First Step towards Progress

                                                                                           =Pt. Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

Change – The First Step towards Progress

A person, who does not fear the process of change, is called progressive. He knows that becoming static is synonymous with inactivity, dullness and sluggishness. One who does not move forward, does not welcome new ideas and new experiences, loses his energy. A progressive person has to forget the past, accept the present, and prepare himself for overcoming the obstacles. Only those who are active should be considered alive and conscious. They possess all the virtues needed for success. Those who fear change should be considered lifeless and dead.

A number of changes, like day and night, profit and loss, meeting and separation, etc, are encountered in everyday life. In spite of appearing opposites, they are all inter-related. A person’s individual and social life is a collection of such events of change. Their purpose is to make a person or community alert, courageous and brilliant. Human dignity lies in welcoming the challenge of change in order to move forward. Fearing change and accepting the status quo is cowardice. Only those people are successful who consider change to be as an opportunity for progress and accept it wholeheartedly and gladly.

At the dawn of the New Year 2010, let us resolve to meet the challenges of change with a positive attitude inspired by faith and hope.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma

How to Educate for Holistic Development? Pujya Gurudev

Amrit Vani

How to Educate for Holistic Development?

(How to Educate for Holistic Development? (Translation of a discourse by Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya on “Susank³rº Banaye, Kaisº Ho Wah Ïikï³”)

 Let us begin with the collective chanting of the Gayatri Mantra:

 “Om Bhur Buva¡ Swa¡, Tatsaviturvareñya® Bhargo Devasya Dhºmahi, Dhiyo Yona¡ Pracoday³t ||”

Sisters and Brothers, We have made a small beginning today. As such, it sounds so ordinary (common practice) for a social organization to start a school! Millions of schools, colleges, academies, universities are there in the world. Governments, private institutions, NGOs, and many individuals keep trying in their own ways to provide education to children, youths and/or adults. So you may wonder, what is so special about this new project our mission has launched today! Well, at peripheral level it is insignificant to start a school for children or training program for women with 30-40 students.

But as you look into the finer details, you will find that it is a step towards a high goal. If you see plantation in a ploughed field, you will find that the process is simple and small: tiny seeds are sown in the soil and are watered from time to time. But the outcome is so large! At the right time, thousand times more seeds (grains) are harvested from it. Have you seen the fields of wheat, maze, rice, sugarcane, etc? Initially the fields look almost like a plane surface. The little saplings that grow after sometime are so delicate that one just can’t imagine their growth. But in a few months the field is covered by the flourishing crop full of a treasure of grains.

Tiny saplings planted in a small portion of the garden gradually blossom and fill it with marvelous green shades, flowers and fruits. Many of the thin, minuscule rod-like saplings turn into mighty trees standing for years as witness to the grand transformation. Small steps in the righteous direction lead to great achievements. A quiet, insignificant beginning made with firm determination and prudent vision eventually accomplishes grand tasks. I have always followed this example. All milestones of our mission are achieved through small beginnings. The present effort, which appears so insignificant, is also aimed at a noble objective. Education is also like sowing the seeds.

 Let us look at some live examples to see what best one can sow and reap. Swami Shraddhanand was always concerned about upliftment of the Indian masses, which was in a downtrodden state of mental and economic backwardness in the early twentieth century. He realized that shaping the talents of the children would be most beneficial /effective, as they are the future of the society.

The minds of children are like soft wax that can be easily molded in any desired shape. Soft, fresh stick of cane is flexible enough to be bent in any form, but an old, hard stick would simply break if one tries to bend it. Similar is the difference between the mental state of children and adults. If given proper guidance and training, the personality of children could be so chiseled that they would become great humans of worthy/honorable character. Maharshi (great Vedic sage) Vishwamitra had taken princes Ram and Lakshman with him in the childhood. His noble guidance and rigorous training nurtured them with superhuman potentials, honed their talents and illumined their characters with angelic glow. Lord Krishna had also gone to the Ashram of Rishi Sandipini in his childhood itself. Noble education there at the right age had shaped his divine personality. Luv and Kush were also trained in the Ashram of Rishi Valmiki since their early childhood. Young age is very important for best effect of education. The impact of enlightened teaching on adult students is not as good and intense as it is on the young students. Swami Shraddhanand had recognized this fact.

 He therefore took up the task of educating the young children in a special way. This was about eighty ninety years back. He sold his house for rupees five thousands to run the gurukul on his own without charging any fee. He made small huts near the banks of the holy Ganga in Haridwar and began his school with ten students. People laughed at this attempt. They found it a mockery of an educational institution because of the small number of students. The handmade hutments stood nowhere in front of the plush premises of the public schools at Massouri and Dehradun in nearby regions. But no criticism or ridicule could shake Swami Shraddhanand’s determination. He continued with his unflinching endeavors of creating great personalities among his students. Even the flood in the Ganga could not deter him.

His dedication indeed served a great purpose. His small school continued to grow and eventually gave birth to the reputed Gurukul Kangadi University. Noted talents, social reformers, patriotic freedom-fighters like Indrasen, Vidyavachaspati, Satyadev Vidyalankar, Ram Gopal Vidyarthi, were the initial products of this unique school. No other educational institute, however big and publicized it may be, could boast of having produced any one comparable to such chiseled personalities. Our mission’s press at Mathura is publishing thousands of books and magazines with millions of subscribers today. But do you know how it was started? Nearly forty, forty-two years ago I had opened a small printing unit. Anyone who saw it could not control his laughter. There was only a small hand-operated machine bought for rupees three hundred fifty, and the plan was to publish a magazine that would transform the era!! Sounded so funny! All well-wishers advised me not to waste money in this misadventure. The facility and resources were small, but the objective was great.

We began with hand made paper. There were only three persons working in this tiny printing press of total cost of about one thousand rupees. But the matter that was printed by the small machine was precious. The books and magazines (“Akhand Jyoti” and other monthly of the mission) published in this insignificant press shook and awakened the minds of readers and laid the foundation of this great mission. And you all know what kind of things many of the huge printing presses are publishing – dirty novels, story books and magazines, the standard of many of which is so low that it’s better not to make a mention of them. So you see it is the grandeur of the objective and dedication to it that matter for historic achievements.

The abundance and glitter of tools or resources hardly count. A British Inspector in Itava, Sir Humes thought of organizing a group of Indian youths who would help solve people’s problem. He toured around and gathered about forty - fifty volunteers from villages and towns in different parts of India. His motive was good so his efforts fructified and this group gradually became a strong national organization – namely, the Indian National Congress, which at that time, gave the country great leaders like, Lokmanya Tilak, Subhas Chandra Bose, Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri. Every group, every organization can’t achieve this unless it is founded and run on some noble principles and for high objectives. Vested interest, foul play, substandard or unmindful aims or aimless activities on the contrary eventually bring failures, loss and bad name to the doer and his associates. Another example in support of the point under discussion is the Banasthali Vidyapeeth. Shri Hiralal Shastri, a school teacher of a village in Rajasthan took an unprecedentedly bold initiative nearly eight decades ago. Sacrificing all the money and materialistic means that he owned, this farsighted teacher launched a small school for girls at a place called Banasthali (forest place), about 50 kilometers from Jaipur.

The purpose was to encourage girls’ education, uplift their inherent talents and train them to be self-dependent. Like the gurukul of Swami Sharddhanand, character building was the main focus here. His miniscule scale school has now grown into a full-fledged university, which offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in all major branches of arts and science. Today the girls admitted to this university can even learn designing and flying a high-tech aircraft, do research in frontline areas of science and technology, etc. The premises has several buildings each valued several hundred millions of rupees. Who can imagine that all this is an expansion of a hutment type school? This miracle happened because of the great purpose and dedication to this noble cause.

If you have such focused vision and devotion for an altruistic cause, individuals, institutions, every one, even divine powers will help you. Opening of our mission’s school also marks launching of a grand plan, which will set the foundation of righteous and holistic education. I want that, along with mainstream school education, the students will also be taught and trained in sansk—ati vidy³1. It will not be a highflying education centre or public school where a fee of thousands of rupees is charged per student. Many such schools are there in our country. But tell me how many of them train the students to be good humans of high integrity? How many inculcate humility, sense of responsibility and compassionate sensitivity in the minds and hearts of the students? Perhaps, none! Education today is devoid of sansk—ati vidy³. What is sansk—ati vidy³? It is that which transforms us from merely being organisms of human species or from the so-called social animals into awakened, duty-bound citizens, socially responsible, kind and prudent persons. It is that which transmutes good humans into great humans, and successively into revered personalities, saintly sages, and human incarnation of angelic beings. Looking at the smart manipulative skills, cleverness and cunningness of many of the educated persons today, I sometimes feel that the uneducated villagers are better; they would at least be simpler and not so polished and shrewd in cheating others. They, because of lesser exposure to the so-called elite educated world of arrogance and rat-race and because of lesser prejudice, would adopt sansk—ati vidy³ more easily and intensely than most of the well-educated ones today. The ‘educated class’ today often appears to have chosen to be deaf and blind to the falling moral and cultural values.

False pride of high-education and consequent worldly status seem to have wiped out even the civic sense and moral code of conduct which they might have been taught in primary schools. For them, the word ‘sansk—ati’ is mostly confined to its word-translation ‘culture’, which is popularly interpreted today as pertaining to dance, music, painting, sculpturing, handicrafts, and other forms of art, linguistics, social customs, etc. The government departments and many of the national and global centers and organizations of culture and education are doing no better. (No doubt, literature, theater and music have the power to influence peoples’ thoughts and sentiments. But who cares for intrinsic refinement and use these to disseminate the real sansk—ati?). Sansk—ati Vidy³ teaches you the knowledge of living a happy and progressive life with dignity of humanity. It can’t be taught by just any teacher or professor or any one having degrees and experience of prevalent education system. One has to be an enlightened master (Guru) of the level of a rishi (saintly sage). In the ancient times of glorious vedic culture, education used be complete (and that is why it was called “Vidy³”), as it encompassed ïik̳2 as well as sansk—ati. Only rishis used to bear the responsibility of teaching. Their very presence was an embodiment of vidy³. They set live examples of what it means to be culturally evolved, what it is to adopt sansk—ati. You see, one can give ïik̳ as per his or her expertise and experience, but a teacher of vidy³ has to adopt it in his life. In my childhood days, many teachers were dedicated to produce good, disciplined citizens. I used to attend primary school in my village Amalkheda.

Those days, nearly sixty years ago, the merit scholarship offered by the government to bright and talented students was rupees two per month. Most of the merit scholarships sanctioned for Agra District were awarded to the students of my school. Almost one-third of the students of every passing out batch used to secure meritorious ranks. This is because we had an excellent teacher who had transformed the school into a kind of gurukul. Children used to stay there. With motherly care, he used to discipline them to sleep early, get up early, make their beds, clean their teeth, bathe, etc, on time. The parents of his students were happy and wanted their children to spend more time under his vigilant guidance. He lucidly taught them the primary school level subjects, but more importantly like a guru, he also developed the strong base of their overall development. It is painful to see the pathetic state of education today.

Our schools, colleges, universities are not doing justice even with the worldly aspects of education – viz., ïik̳. Just anybody seems to have opened his school! The nature of education and attitudes of teachers and students also often seem influenced by base commercial considerations. Students today seem indifferent to education. It looks like they care only for certificates and degrees, which will help them get the jobs with fat salaries. Today’s teachers are paid employees; it is hard to find a guru among them. Notes: 1.Sansk—ati Vidy³: Education imbibed with sansk—ati, i.e. education that incorporates cultivation of integrity and noble cultural values and enlightened development of personality. 2.Ïik̳: The kind of education prevalent in the modern times. This may be described as — classroom teaching of literacy and worldly knowledge, and training for development of specific skills or talents, which enable the students to get a respectable means of living and progress materialistically.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma

Lord Shiva and the Philosophy of His devotion.Pujya Gurudev

Lord Shiva and the Philosophy of His devotion

:Pt.Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti July-Aug.04)

(Translation of the original discourse in Hindi - Continued from the previous issue)
Implications of Scriptural Depictions:

The scriptural descriptions narrate the simplicity of the wedding ceremony of Shiva and Parvati. He did not go after big people or gods of heavens to join the wedding procession. Rather, he took the ghosts and the palitas along. As praised in the following hymn of the Ramacharit Manas –– "Tanu Kshina Kou Ati Pita, Pavan Kou Apavan Tanu Dhare" (Those with ugly, horrifying and diseased bodies were also among Shiva’s Baraatis). Shiva had taken due care of even the deprived and down trodden ones. We should also broaden our hearts and pay attention to those scorned by the society. If we cannot get rid of our hatred, fears and prejudices, we can never enjoy the sense of bliss and fulfillment, the devotees of Shiva deserve.

What is the meaning of your worship and devotion if you don’t learn anything from the truth, from the philosophy of your Deity? You will just continue to perform some rituals, keep crying and praying at His feet without any improvement in your life. Remember that Shiva does not need your flowers and other offerings of worship. Your devotion is real only if you adopt its philosophy in every aspect of life.

An Ox (named Nandi) is said to be the mount of Lord Shankar (Shiva). Why? What does it imply? Well, an ox is known to be an assiduous animal. Any laborious, industrious human can become God Shiva’s favorite irrespective of whether he is an Indian, British, French or any one else…. We all know that God helps those who help themselves. The ox symbolizes strength, courage and hard work in our (Indian) culture. If you want to become a devotee of Lord Shiva, you will have to be courageous and depend upon your own wisdom and endeavors. No one will open the doors of progress for you. You alone will have to come forward and initiate your ascent in the desired direction. Do you know who rides on a buffalo? Shanicar! (Saturn, as described in the Puranas). A buffalo represents lethargy, dullness and escapism from labor or hard work. It can never be an aid of Shiva. Shiva likes the ever energetic, assiduous ox, Nandi. The latter is described in the Puranas as the vehicle of Shiva (in human form). Shiva takes care of it and loves this pet. You and I should also try to cultivate the qualities of this ox; this is what God wants His devotees to be like…

What else have you read or heard about Lord Shiva from the scriptural descriptions? That He lives in the marghat (crematorium)! Why should He do so? Well, this again is a symbolic depiction. It teaches us that we should always remember death. We get so engrossed in the worldly affairs that we almost forget that death could knock at our door any moment… and then we will have to leave this world instantly. We seem to remember everything else but this bitter reality of life. If we had remembered the absolute fact that we had to die some day or the other, our attitude towards life would have been different. In that case, we would have cared for what we ought and what we ought not to do? We would have been more alert towards our duties.

A home and a crematorium are alike for a duty-bound, altruist person who has acquired pure knowledge. Such a wise man knows that this moment he is living comfortably in the house but any other moment he would be no more and his body would rest in peace in a crematorium or a graveyard; then he will have new life and a new home and so on…. Today’s life would be tomorrow’s death, which would again turn into new life some day… This is how the cycle of life continues… Life and death are like the relay games of day and night. Then why should we be scared of death? Rather, we should remember it to make our life more meaningful, more useful, more enlightened every day. This is another significant teaching of Shiva’s Philosophy of Life.

If we look carefully and ponder over it, we will find that innumerable teachings are hidden in Lord Shiva’s manifestations as we see Him in the temples and religious stories. We often find His depiction in human-like form with a coating of ash on his body. If we knew the righteous attitude of life and the ideal mode of living, the importance of this ash-coating would have been crystal clear to us. Many of us put the bhasm (ash) of the sacred fire of yagya (agnihotra or homam) on our forehead with great reverence. But do we know the meaning of this religious ritual? The most important implication of smearing bhasm on any part of the body is to recall the Vedic teaching of "Bhasmantaka Goum Shariram" – this body is going to become (a heap of) ash one day. That means, this body might either get mixed in the soil or water or fly like the dust particles with the wind. This physical body of ours, which we are so proud of and are so much attached to, is going to be crushed (with the soil) beneath others’ feet one day.

If we are His true devotees, the bhasm on Shiva’s body should constantly remind us of this ultimate reality and therefore keep us away from the ego and attachments that arise because of our mistaken identity with the physical body.

The Third Eye:

The three eyes of Lord Shiva are often the focus of mythological interpretations and mystic curiosity. Representation of His manifestation in humanlike form should have shown only two eyes like the normal humans have. Is the third eye mere allegoric depiction? Or, does it signify some hidden facets…? In fact, the third eye symbolizes the source of sagacity – pure, discreet wisdom. This center in the human body is hidden subtly in an endocrine gland inside the brain right behind the position (on the forehead) where the third eye of Shiva is depicted.

You all might have read a story in the holy Ramayana or in some other shastric scripture which mentions of Kamadeva being burnt into ashes due to the opening of Shiva’s third eye. Kamadeva the Lord of amour had once tried to sinfully entice and influence Lord Shiva. Then, Lord Shiva just opened His third eye. The divine radiations emanating therefrom instantly burnt the gross body of Kamadeva. Have you ever thought about the truth behind this mythological anecdote? It conveys the fact that the insidious force of erotic thoughts and sexual excitation can be instantly checked and eliminated if our discerning prudence is awakened. The opening of the third eye means awakening of our sagacity and creative activation of our inner wisdom.

The third eye is subtly located in the third dimension inside our brain. It teaches us to look into the deeper aspects of every phenomenon, every thought and every experience. Our ordinary eyes (the two eyes on our faces) see only extrovertly; they can only show us our materialistic gains and losses or the worldly affairs in the limited peripheries of our interactions. The needs of the body or the sense organs are easily seen by them. But there is a third eye, which opens inward. It enables us to look deeply in the sublime folds of mind and shows us the world of inner peace, everlasting happiness and absolute truth. This is the eye of foresight and clairvoyance.

When a sincere devotee of Lord Shiva seeks refuge under His grace, he first inspects his own character and conduct to check whether or not he measures up to the virtuous standards with respect to the philosophy of Shiva. The human-like image of God Shiva is a kind of an ideal model for the true devotee. A potter makes a pot in the desired design by processing and fixing the clay into appropriate mold. The devotee should also try to mold his personality, his attitude, his thinking, his life, etc as per the ideals of his Deity. Our worship and devotional practices have no meaning without commensurate endeavors of refinement and improvement in our thoughts, behavior and deeds.

The Sanskrit word for devotional worship is "Upasana", which literally means ‘sitting nearby’. Sitting near the fire makes us feel warm. Similarly, sitting near God should inspire us with His attributes. Sitting in the closed vicinity of a powerful source of energy would bestow the associated significant effects on us only if there is a linkage, a direct connection between the source and the beneficiary. A piece of wood becomes fire only when it sacrifices itself in the fire nearby. This is how "upasana" brings the desired results only if the devotee sets a live linkage of his inner self with the Deity of his worship. For this, he has to discipline and mold himself as per the inspirations of his God. We, the aspirants of the beatitude of Lord Shiva, should also consciously and ceaselessly attempt at transforming ourselves according to the ideals of His manifestation. We should endeavor opening our third eye (that means, awaken our intuitive insight and pure intellect).

The very purpose of murti puja (idol-worship) in Indian Culture is to enable the masses to access and imbibe the teachings and inspirations of divine emanations. Every idol, every symbol of God’s manifestation represented here is indicative of some important teaching related to the spiritual evolution of human consciousness. Today, I gave you the example of Shankar (Shiva) in this context and tried to explain the principles, the occult implications of His worship and devotion. Unfortunately, we often get engrossed in worshipping the gross form – the idol of God and consider the performance of some customary rituals, chanting of some prayers etc as all that is required for His devotion. Even if we have read or heard about the occult significance of the symbols of divine manifestations, we don’t seem to remember anything. We just want to take shortcuts and regard ourselves great devotees simply by symbolic worship.

The word "Shiva" in Sanskrit means highest good. Lord Shiva (Shiva) is the presiding Deity of eternal, auspicious well-being of all creation. But we, the so-called worshippers of Shiva never even think of global good. (Forget about global, we don’t even attempt to expand the narrow domain of our selfish interests and engage ourselves in altruistic service and upliftment of the needy around us). We keep chanting "Om Namah Shivaya" but don’t bother to know its meaning; in reality, Shiva (Shiva) is far away from our lives. We don’t even know what is the true well-being of our soul or our own life and how to attain it? The japa (rhythmic chanting) of Shiva’s name will be beatifying if "Shiva" (Highest Good) is embodied in our attitude, aspirations, thoughts and deeds. It is time we realize that worshipping only the external, gross form is no better than not doing anything at,all.

Be Blessed by Shiva’s Grace:

The Almighty God of Hindu religion for whom we observe fasting on Shivaratri, perform japa, ceremonial worship, sacred ablution (abhisheka) and what not… can’t He, the Omnipotent, destroy all evils and eliminate our adversities? Can’t He help us in our progress? He indeed can and He will, if we are His deserving devotees. He loves all of us and wants to bestow all His grace upon us; but it is our infirmities, our vices that hinder or limit the flow of His blessings. His grace is like the water-laden clouds. (The clouds shower the treasure of rains without discrimination wherever they fall). But how much water a pond or a pot would collect from the rain depends upon its own capacity. If we deserve, we will surely be beatified by Shiva’s enormous generosity. His beatitudes will continue to grow as our abilities, our merits increase and we shall get everything that a true devotee of Shankar deserves.

We discussed today the meaning and philosophy of the gross manifestations of Lord Shiva as described in the Puranas. A large number of stories and rhetoric descriptions are also available in the texts that lucidly illustrate the great teachings and philosophies of the other incarnations and manifestations of Hindu Gods. There lived about 33 crore people on the Indian subcontinent in the Vedic Age. They were the true devotees, spiritually enlightened, virtuous men and women, who, because of their divine characteristics were revered as 33 crore devatas on this earth. If we had tried to search and grasp the truth behind the teachings of the Puranas and put into practice the Vedic philosophy, we also would have been like those pearls of the human society and would have gloriously accomplished the divine purpose of our life.

We are lucky to have been born on this sacred land, which once upon a time was the Land of gods. It can and should still regain its glory, if we, the devotees, the worshipers of the Vedic (Indian) Philosophy, sincerely adopt its values and attempt towards spiritual elevation of our conduct and refinement of the ambience around us. Divine beings generate love, peace, beauty, piety, bliss and prosperity wherever they go. You should also adopt and expand such qualities. I wish you all the success in your endeavors to proceed in this direction. Thank you for listening with patience.

||OM SHANTI||

II  OM NAMA: SHIVAY  II

" Satyam Shivam Sundram"

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma