Gayatri Sadhana- III = Pujya Gurudev

Miraculous Rewards of Gayatri Sadhana

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti Sept.Oct.2006)

Swamiji started eating and I stood by the side - sad and sullen. Swamiji occasionally looked at my face and after finishing the meal enquired, ’Khushal Chand! What is the matter? Why are you so downcast today? At these words of compassion I began to sob. Swamiji sat me on his lap and asked, ’What has happened?’ Why are you so miserable?’ I narrated the whole tale of my woes to him. I told him that I was mentally dull and could not recollect any lesson even after trying my best. Swamiji soothed me. He wrote out Gayatri mantra on a slip of paper, gave it to me and said, ’Here is the medicine for your ailment. Get up very early in the morning, about 2 or 3 a.m., when other members of the family are fast asleep, take bath and recite this mantra.’ He also explained to me at that time some meanings of the mantra, which I have not forgotten even after such a long time.

From then onwards, I began to get up early. But I felt sleepy during japa. To solve this problem I would tie my choti with a long rope to the iron hook on the ceiling. After 5 or 6 months the effects of the japa were discernible. Previously my answers would be invariably wrong; now I began to pass the examinations. My teachers thought that I was copying someone. I told them that it was not so, that I was only chanting the Gayatri mantra regularly.

They were skeptical, but nevertheless I started securing good marks. I wrote a poem too and got a reward of one pound from my teacher. I showed the poem to my father who gave me another pound. A few months after this another significant even occurred. The annual festival of the Arya Samaj of Jalalpur Jattan was being held. Mahatma Hansraj had delivered a lecture. I prepared a report of this lecture and showed it to him. He asked, ’Whose son are you?’ I replied, ’The secretary of Arya Samaj Lala Ganeshdasji is my father’. Mahatmaji enquired from my father about the work I did. My father said, ’He is poor in studies. So I have installed a socks-weaving unit for him.’ Mahatmaji said, ’Munshiji, this work is not suitable for the boy. Assign him to me. I will put him to the work for which he is suitable.’ Father replied, ’How can I refuse? He is your child. Do as you think fit.’ "Sometime later Mahatmaji summoned me to Lahore. There, I began to work in the Arya Gazette on a monthly salary of thirty rupees. With time I rose to be its editor. During those days there broke out the Moplah revolt in Malabar region.

Thousands of Hindus were killed or forcibly converted to Islam. Something had to be done. But the press of the time was adopting a posture of complete silence on this happening. No one wanted to print and bring to light this tyranny on the Hindus. I felt that this was no way to bring about Hindu-Muslim unity. After much deliberation we started Milap magazine with a view to organize the Hindus. Its aim was to usher in Hindu-Muslim unity based on right behavior and conduct and to generate a sense of security.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Spiritual Power = Pujya Gurudev

Tapascarya Essential for the Growth of Spiritual Power

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti Nov.Dec.2006)

My Life: Its Legacy and Message – 22 (Autobiography of Pujya Gurudev, continued from the previous issue)
After returning from England, Aurobindo took all the measures to force the Britishers to leave India. Indian princes were organized, students were mobilized, a new party was formed but he soon realized that these stray efforts would be of no avail to confront the might of the powerful British Empire. It was not possible in those days to do something like Gandhiji’s satyagrah. He, therefore, took up the work of generating spiritual power to warm up the atmosphere. He went out of the reach of the Britishers, lived in seclusion in Pondicherry and started doing special tapashcarya sadhana. People may regard it as an act of escapism but it was not so.

Those having keen observation knew it very well that Aurobindo generated powerful invisible energy by his tapashcarya. The subtle atmosphere was warmed up, giving birth to a number of great personages at a time, which was unprecedented in the history of the country. Anybody can be a political leader, but he is not necessarily a great man. Great persons are great from every point of view and they possess the capacity to visibly and invisibly move and influence the public mind. Having lost everything on account of slavery over a period of two thousand years, the country needed such helmsmen who could lead the nation out of difficulties.

They were all born at one time in large numbers like whirlwinds in hot summer. Thus, in due course, Aurobindo’s dream was fulfilled. In the history of spiritual sciences, tapashcarya and sadhana, have been regarded as the only means for higher attainments. This cannot be done by clinging to a luxurious, comfortable life style. It needs single-pointed concentration towards the achievement of the noble aim. At the time of writing eighteen Puranas, Vyas retired to a cave near Vasodhara in Uttarakhand. Ganesh undertook to help him as his scribe on the condition that he will not interrupt and will keep totally silent. Such an important work could not have been accomplished without this uninterrupted concentration.

Maharshi Raman remained engaged in tapashcarya and observed silence during the period of struggle for Independence. Besides, several other elevated saints in the Himalayas performed specific tapashcarya for this purpose. This invisible spiritual contribution cannot be seen and appreciated with material senses. Persons having spiritual insight alone know its truth.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Rewards of Gayatri Sadhana = Pujya Gurudev

Miraculous Rewards of Gayatri Sadhana

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti Sept.-Oct.2006)

Mahatma Anand Swami was among the greatest Gayatri sadhakas of his time. He held many high positions in Arya Samaj from time to time and was also known for his journalistic attainments. He spread the message of Mother Gayatri inside and outside the country till the ripe old age of 92. His personal sadhana of Gayatri was of the highest order and was reflected in equal measure in all dimensions of his personality - his words, thoughts and actions. Mahatma Anand Swami wrote Gayatri Mahamantra, Anand Gayatri Katha and many other books on spirituality. Anand Gayatri Katha among these has descriptions of the many miracles of Gayatri sadhana that he personally experienced in the course of his life.
Some of these experiences are being given below in his own words. "In my childhood, when I was studying in the 6th or 7th standard I was a very dull student. The teachers would routinely stand me on the bench at the very beginning of the class and this practice would unfailingly continue in every succeeding class for hours together. Upon returning home, the father would beat me and say - ’you are a moron, wholly incapable of doing anything’! I would weep and reply - ’Father! I do study attentively. But what can I do? Whatever I read I just cannot retain it in my memory’. But the father would not believe me. This routine of daily beating and humiliation depressed me so much that even at that tender age I began to seriously think about committing suicide. Death would be better than this humiliating life.

One day, after the classes were over, I went to the small stream flowing by the side of my village. It was rainy season and the river was full. I advanced to the bridge across it and flung myself into the swirling waters underneath. I was determined to die but God had willed otherwise. Probably He had some other scheme for me. The fast currents carried me two miles downstream and threw me on the bank in an unconscious state. The locals there recognized me and took me home. "One day Swami Nityanand of the Arya Samaj came to visit our village, Jallalpur, and camped in my family’s orchard. My father assigned me the duty of taking meals to him daily. One day, upon my father’s instruction I took our buffalo to the village pond. The buffalo slowly advanced to the deep waters. I was a kid; I began to shout at her and throw pebbles.

Finally the buffalo emerged on the other side of the pond and crossed into the zamindar’s fields. By the time I could skirt the pond and reach there, she had ruined a good part of the standing crops. The zamindar came running and thrashed me severely. My bones began to ache. Earlier that day I had taken beatings in school, too. When after the buffalo episode I finally came home, the father was angry at my being so late and he also beat me. I began to pray to God about what I should do. Father then ordered me to take food to Swamiji in the orchard. I did accordingly.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Vastu Shastra:An established science = Pujya Gurudev

Vastu Shastra: An established science - VI:

Vastu guidelines on bedrooms

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti Nov.Dec.2004)

Scholarly king Bhojdev remarks the importance of the Vastu principles in the first chapter of his historic treatise "Samarangana Sutradhar" as....

“Sukhamdhanani iddhishcha Santati Sarvada Nanam | Priyashyesham Tu Sansiddhayai Sarvam Syachchhubhalakshanam|| Yachcha Nindita Lakshmatra Tadetesham Vighatakrat| Ata Sarvamupadeyam Yad Bhavechchhubhalakshanam|’’

Meaning: The house complying with the Vastu specifications would bring happiness, prosperity and health to the owner and his family residing in it; the family will be blessed with noble-souled children who will brighten the name of their parents. The house designed against Vastu principles might, however, prove to be the reverse that is, may bring misery, poverty, ill health, inharmony and other negative effects.
Some other scriptures also cite: "Shastramanen Yo Ramyo Sa Ramyo Nanya Eva Hi |" Meaning: Any creation or construction, howsoever outwardly beautiful it may be, is complete and fulfilling only when it is in accordance with the laws and guidelines of the concerned Shastras (Vedic scriptures). As such all the rooms in the house are important for the occupants, however, like the kitchen, the bedroom attains special significance for them. Whether it is a palatial mansion or a big or small flat, the bedroom happens to be the only place where one relaxes and sleeps for a few hours after the hectic, stressful or busy schedule of the day.

In most cases, one spends about one-third of the whole day in taking rest or sleeping here. If we consider the active age of a person to be around 70 years on an average, and let his average hours of sleep/rest per day to be about 7 to 8 hours, we find that we would have spent about 23 to 24 years of our active life span in the bedroom! Sound sleep and proper rest is important for sound health. It is therefore of obvious priority that our bedrooms bear a soothing ambience where we could relax and sleep without disturbance and irritation.

Location of the bedroom relative to the other room(s) and with respect to the geo-magnetic effects and natural energy fields is therefore very important. Vastu plays a key role in optimizing its position and design in our homes. As per the Vastu Shastra, South and West are supposed to be the suitable directions for construction of the bedroom. Of these, South is said to be the best. Maharshi Vashishthas guidelines in this regard, as quoted in the"Vastu Ratnawali", are...

Aindrayam Snanagraham Karyamagneyam Pachanalaya | Yamyayam Shayanam Veshma Naiatyam Shastramandiram || Maharshi Kashyap also states the same in an independent context,

Prachyam Dishi Snanagrahamagneyam Pachanalaya| Shayanam Yamyadigbhage Naiatyam Shastramandiram|| Both the shlokas mean Bathroom should be placed in the East, Kitchen in the Southeast. Bedroom should be located in the Yamya (South) direction and weaponry (security-related storage and safe) in the Southwest. "Muhurtamartand" and"Muhurta Chintamani" also specify South as the best direction for construction of the bedrooms.

The 150th Shloka of the"Vrahadvastumala" also says
Purvasyam Shrigraham Proktamagneyyam Syanmahanasam | Shayanam Dakshinasyam Ca Naiatyamayudhashrayam || Meaning: Wealth should be safeguarded in the eastern corner of the house. Southeast direction is best for the construction of the kitchen, south for the bedrooms and southwest for the weaponry. The 154th Shloka of the same scripture indicates another possible direction for the master bedroom of the house as somewhere in the Northwestern side of the house "Kamopabhogashamanam Vayavyottarayorgaham" | (The room for amour of the husband and wife owning the house, should be somewhere between the Northwest and the North directions). Because of being the most private part in the house, bedroom is also referred as"antahpur" in the scriptures. It should obviously be away from the main entrance of the house to prevent disturbances by the visitors. Depending upon the size of the family, more than one bedroom might also be required in some houses. In such cases, the scriptural guidelines on Vastu suggest bedrooms could be (in the order of suitability) in the South and Southwest directions. Apart from these, if necessary, the portions between the West and Southwest or, with lesser positive effects, in-between West and Northwest, or Northwest and North could also be selected for this purpose. If only two bedrooms are required, the best

combination would be one in the South and the other in the Northwest.
The directions East, North, Southeast and Northeast are said to be unsuitable for the construction of a bedroom. If needed, the house could have the following arrangements: the master bedroom in the South or Southwest corner of the house; the bedroom for the youngsters or the children should in the east or north of this room; the bedroom for grownup girls in the family in the Northwest. For the newly married younger couples, it could be in-between the North and the Northwest; and towards the North (or Northwest, if there is free space available) for the guests.

 If it is feasible, the bedrooms could be designed (successively) in the L-shaped portion around the southwest (from Southwest up to Northwest and from Southwest up to just before Southeast). Some experts of Vastu have analyzed the effects of sleeping in different directions upon people of different age groups and mentality vis--vis the precepts of the Vedic Scriptures.

 
         The summary of their recommendations on the positive or negative effects found in general is as follows:

1. Bedroom in the Northeast (Ishana) Direction: This is supposed to be against the principles of Vastu. Having bedroom in this direction is not suitable because, as the name suggests (Isha = God; Ishana = place of God), this direction is most suited for the worship-, prayer- and meditation room.

If the master bedroom happens to be in this corner and is being used by the head of the family, he/she might suffer physical and mental problems and often face economic constraints. If it is a must (due to a readymade or rented house, for instance) to have a bedroom in this direction, it should be used for the younger members (especially the school or college going children) of the family. The bed should be placed in the South of this room and care should be taken that the head lies in the South or the East.
2. Bedroom in the East: If used for a continuous stretch of time, especially by the elders in the family, it would cause or augment ill health and fluctuating moods. If it is a must to have a bedroom here, it may be arranged for the guests or converted into a study-cum- bedroom for the children who should do their studies in the Northeast corner.
3. Bedroom in the Southeast (Agneya) Direction: This being the Natural direction of the (thermal) energy field of Agni (fire), sleeping here would disturb the mental cool of the head of the family. He/she would feel excessive irritation and might become short-tempered in general. This in turn would upset peace in the family ambience and add to the mental tension and might lead to insomnia. As discussed earlier, this corner is most suitable for having a kitchen or a fireplace. However, if it is unavoidable, one might have a bedroom here with a partition so that one portion could be used as a storeroom or kitchen. If even that be not feasible, then this bedroom should be used by the young girls in the family provided they are not short-tempered; the energy of Agni will help them remain energetic and active in general.

 
              4. Bedroom in the South: This is supposed to be the best choice. The geomagnetic effects are most soothing here for mental and bodily relaxation. One gets good sleep here and regains energy and freshness for the next day. This way, his/her productivity and mental peace and creativity also increase. Thus, having the master bedroom in this direction generally results in happiness and prosperity for the family.
5. Bedroom in the Southwest (Nairatya) Direction: This is also found to bring auspicious effects like the South direction, if the master bedroom is located here. For best results, the bed should be placed towards the South.
6. Bedroom in the West: This could also be a good choice after South or Southwest while taking care that the slope (if any) of its roof is inclined towards Southeast or some other direction but not towards the West.

Having youngsters or childrens bedroom in this direction bestows more beneficial effects upon them.

7. Bedroom in the Northwest (Vayavya) Direction: This is supposed to be the best if guests bedroom is placed here. It also is generally good for the girls in the family. However, for others, especially the elders, sleeping here would generally cause mental agitation and irritation and hence would result in bad health and/or quarrels. The negative effects would be most prominent upon the head of the family, if it happens to be the master bedroom used by them; in that case, one of them might also have to travel unnecessarily.

8. Bedroom in the North: This is prohibited according to the strict rules of Vastu. This direction is supposed to be that of Kuber (the treasurer of heavens or the Lord of wealth). This direction is therefore best suited for storing the wealth or valuables. Using this as the master bedroom harms the prosperous growth of the family and causes economic decline, which naturally results in mental tension and associated health problems. If necessary, arrangements could be made to have the bedroom somewhere between the North and the Northwest corner instead of North. Having the bedroom between the North and Northwest for the younger couples (especially the newly married ones) in the family is supposed to be auspicious for them. This series of Vastu teachings has dealt with the major vastu aspects of house architecture and that of different rooms especially with respect to the directions and type of construction, their relative position in the house and the shape and location of the plot giving practical guidance, wherever possible.

        The worship room, kitchen and the bedroom(s) are covered in greater details, as the vastu effects in these three have direct impact on the subtle body as well as the physical well being; these three are also given prime importance in Vastu Shastra. We conclude the series with a reminder that we can enjoy maximum support and benefit of the natural forces and energy fields by following the guidelines and disciplines of Vastu Shastra. However, even if the architect and the internal design of the house are against the Vastu principles and there is no scope for modification, one need not panic. Creating auspicious environment through noble conduct and spiritual sadhanas especially Gayatri Anushthans - annul all kinds of negative impacts.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

AMRIT CHINTAN = Pujya Gurudev

AMRIT CHINTAN

=Pt. ShriRam Sahrma Acharya

Pure Bliss is inherent in the very nature of the Soul. Man instinctively endeavors to interact with this internal source of happiness. That is why everyone desires to be happy. In the absence of the correct means and wisdom required for attaining lasting happiness, man resorts to quench this natural intrinsic thirst for happiness in the outer objective world by indulging in mundane, perverted sensory pleasures of the flesh. If he, somehow, has even a fleeting taste of the bliss inherent in the true Self, would he run here and there chasing the mirage of happiness?

           Dear reader! You must be reading these lines with the same expectations and excitement, which a traveler feels on receiving a letter from his dear ones after a long period of absence from home. Such reaction itself is sufficient to indicate that man is ever eager to know the reality of his true Self.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Regarding Employment = Pujya Gurudev

Employment is National Obligation It Should not be Caste-linked

=Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti June-July 2007)

                        Unemployment and reservation are the issues that are intrinsically connected with the very existence of the youth. Their importance in the lives of the young can be seen in the fact that because of these two reasons lakhs of youth are undergoing the agony of mental stress, leading to even suicide. For the government this may be a matter of mere statistics and for the politicians a means to gathering votes, but for the youth it is a matter of their life and death. The status of being unemployed torments all in equal measure irrespective of caste or creed. Statistics tell that the number of the unemployed is increasing every year and by the

year 2006 it had gone to twenty crores.

 
                          The government is spending about 200 crores every year on their registration and training but is unable to provide them employment. Out of about 5 crore applicants for government jobs only about 70000 are able to get jobs. The position of women is not much better. Out of 1 crore 7 lakhs women applicants only 27000 are able to secure employment. For this reason the people are feeling disenchanted with the government and its offices. But while the people are tired of the government, the government is not tired of the people. After all, the future governments are to be formed on the vote strength of these very people. So to appease and lure certain sections, it has raised the issue of reservation.
The real motive behind this reservation policy is known to everybody. Howsoever the ministers and politicians may harp on social harmony, the reality is different. Social harmony comes only by believing in and practicing the dictum of "All castes and creeds are one  All humanity is one." Historically reservation for the first time was introduced in the Madras Presidency in 1918 for some select communities.

            The 1935 Poona Pact introduced reservation in the legislative bodies. When India became independent, the policy of reservation was adopted as a provisional measure. But it has continued endlessly. In 1989, V.P. Singh government accepted Mandal Commission Report on OBC reservation which had been submitted in 1980. In 1989-90 the whole country witnessed anti-reservation agitation. In 1992 the Supreme Court removed the legal hurdles in its implementation. In 1993 reservation was extended to central government services and now the present government has introduced it for admission to IITs and IIMs. There is increasing demand that reservation system be extended even to the private sector. Presently 50% and even more positions are reserved. Today a great debate is on about the pros and cons of reservation, whether it is right or wrong.

                   Everyone has his own viewpoint on this issue, his own logic. They all may be right in one way or the other but if we scrutinize the diverse views the sum total is that the thinking horizon of almost all of them is narrow and parochial.
The arguments revolve around the caste, religion and vote factors but the human aspect remains unaddressed; whereas the human consideration should take precedence over the caste consideration. We are human beings first and then only Hindu, Muslim, high caste or low caste. Each one of us feels hunger the same way, each one of us needs clothing and shelter. Items of comfort or luxury may not be required but the basic necessities of life should be available to everyone. This is the pain of the unemployed. Of whatever caste or creed they too need means of livelihood. Coming back to reservation, this issue is directly linked with employment opportunities. Even while not being critical of it, this humble plea can surely be advanced that the basis of reservation needs rethinking. Not all the upper caste persons are rich, nor all lower caste people deprived or poor. Media reports often highlight the opulent living styles of scheduled or backward caste ministers and politicians; reporters calculate how many crores have been sunk in their bathrooms alone.

              Then there are the so called deprived sections who are always engrossed in exploiting others. They are so powerful that no one can dare to maltreat or exploit them.
Why should their sons and daughters get the privilege of reservation meant for the really deprived?
                      The young generation simply wants that the matters of employment and reservation should incorporate human element. If this is done, the logical conclusion would be to make economic status the basis of reservation. One more idea could be to increase the quantum of reservation from 50% to 100%, i.e. in the reservation ambit all communities of the country be included and their representation determined according to their population strength. This whole reservation conundrum is such that there is very real and daunting danger of vertically its splitting the whole society into caste compartments. Social harmony and equality is important for the unity and progress of the country, but it is a wrong presumption that this ideal can be through reservations.

                    It has definitely not been achieved during the last 60 years since independence. To achieve this objective it is essential to break the obsolete traditions and wrong beliefs prevalent in the society.

The Yug Nirman Mission is doing this very work silently. Social equality will be ushered in by bread and marriage relations, not by reservation. In the Yug Nirman Mission, bread relations between different castes are the normal thing; inter-caste marriages are also increasing. This is the way to spread social harmony. In this mission even the Brahmin parijans enthusiastically perform tasks that are normally associated with lower castes. Conversely, the scheduled caste and tribe workers wear the yagyopavit (the sacred thread) and perform brahminical duties.

                        The policy makers of the country should know that the young generation will never forgive their cunningness. Talent is a national asset and employment opportunity a national obligation. Talents are not born in specific castes only; wherever they are they should receive patronage and opportunity. It was the tragic truth of a bygone era that some Eklavya was cheated into gifting away his thumb, or some Karna was taunted disparagingly as sutputra (son of a low caste charioteer). But the time-spirit spares none.
The deceiver of Eklavya, Dronacharya, himself had to die through deceit, and that too at the hands of his favourite disciple Arjunas relative.

                        Those who treated Karna unfairly had to become victims of unfairness themselves.
The glory of Eklavya and Karna, on the other hand, remains undiminished even today. Wisdom demands that past mistakes not be repeated, nor current policies be made with a vindictive attitude. Be it Arjun, Eklavya or Karna  all should get equal opportunity whatever be their caste, class or creed. It would be better if the youth of the country themselves come forward to frustrate the evil designs of the wily and shortsighted persons across the political spectrum. They should neither segregate themselves into castes nor allow the divisive forces to succeed. It is the duty of the youth to ensure that wherever be the talent it receives fullest opportunity to blossom forth. Similarly wherever be poverty or hunger, no effort should be spared in removing it. For this we should not keep looking up to the governments only, and must formulate our own suitable plans of action and self-reliance.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Nature-s Rudrabhisheka-1 = Pujya Gurudev

Companions in Solitude- 5 - Nature-s Rudrabhisheka-1

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti Nov.Dec.2005)

[Pujya Gurudevs Travelogue of the Pilgrimage to the Himalayas - Continued] 

Today we reached Bhojwasa camp.Tomorrow morning we have to set out for Gomukh. Here there is no traffic. One comes across pilgrims / travellers between Gangotri and Uttarkashi. In camps also there are crowds; but not so here. Today we are a group of only six persons. Everybody has brought with him his own tiffin. Though it is called Bhojwasa (catering establishment) and also has an inn; but there are no board and lodging facilities, as are available at the lower camps. On looking upwards the mountaintop in front, it seemed as if Himagiri (mountain peak) was performing worship of Lord Shankar by pouring water over it by its own hands.

The scene was celestial. From a great height, a thin stream was falling down. Down below, there was a nature-made Shivlinga. 
The water was falling over it. While falling, the water was getting scattered into tiny drops and the sunrays falling on them were creating an enchanting rainbow. One concretely felt that Shiva was present in reality and the gods were showering on Him flowers of all colours from the Milky Way. The scene was so captivating and engrossing, that the mind and the eyes got glued to it. I kept on looking at it until darkness pulled the curtain over it. Beauty is the thirst of Soul.

But how can it be found in the mud of artificiality? People decorate their homes with pictures of these forests and mountains and feign to enjoy their beauty. But none cares to look at the immense beauty spread all over in natures lap. 
The Himalayas are called the ocean of beauty. Walking in these remote regions creates heavenly vibrations in the soul, and one longs to get lost in this boundless beauty. Todays scene was really natures wonder at its best; but in my imagination I was getting a glimpse of the celestial pleasure as if I was seeing Lord Shiva right before me in reality. I was inwardly feeling immense joy. If only I were able to describe even a part of this joy for the benefit of those who are not here, and let them get the feel of this celestial joy by reading these lines.

(Continue)

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Nature & Life = Pujya Gurudev

Manifestation of Nature & Life – II

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti March-April 2008)

The knowledge enfolded in the scriptures of the Indian Philosophy, appears imaginary (mythological) and baseless to an ignorant because of the rather allegoric, rhetoric and at times abstract style of presentation. Nevertheless, a little deeper study would reveal the contrary. The Vedas, Upanishads and the gamut of Shastric Literature that emerged there from contain absolute knowledge – including that of the genesis, manifestation, expansion and evolution of Nature and Life….

The descriptions (of the kinds cited in the last issue) in the Upanishads concerning – the manifestation of the eternal will of Paramatma in the creation of the Pinda of the sun, moon, other planets and the entire universe, and the subliminal presence of the divine powers and the Paramatma in the human self…, would become clearer if we note the following….

Dr. Allen Leo of “The Occult Anatomy” fame explains that –– “if we had understood the cosmic system, it would not have been difficult to see the intimate relationship of our body and mind with the sun, moon and other planets….”.

Dr. Corinne Helen discusses the complexity of the process of life in the human body under the topic “The Dual Brain Functions and Relation with Spiritual Development”. She further writes that – “It is amazing to note that all the natural instincts of artistic creativity, intellectual talents and knowledge acquisition are bestowed on human mind by the planetary system. This way all intellectuals are disciples of the planets and stars (cosmic centers)….”. The Occult Anatomy regards human beings to be constituted of two bodies. One is gross – made up of the panca tatvas (five basic elements) and the other is subtle – which is created by the divine powers emitted from the cosmic centers.

The gross components of our body, which are visible or tangible, are made up of the p—athvº tatva (source of the basic elements available on the earth). Interestingly the material components of the other planets too are found to be constituted by these elements gifted by the earth. The sun, moon and the other members of this family also bestow enormous energy and support on the earth in return. The same is true of the mutual cooperation and coexistence of the other planetary systems, the galaxies, and every entity of the ever-expanding universal ensemble…

The gross as well as the subtle body of the sun has been given special mention in the Indian scriptures in the context of human life. The vigor of the body and illumination of the intellect, both are said to have direct linkage with the cosmic source. The gross effects of the sun and its vital role in the maintenance of life on the earth are well known to us. Significant observations have also been made in the laboratories on these effects. If a sapling receives proper water supply and fertilizers but no sunlight, it certainly dies in a few days.

If sunlight is allowed to reach a tree partially and indirectly (after filtering or refraction through a colored glass for instance,) it might survive and grow into a tree, but it won’t blossom with its natural flowers and fruits. These kinds of observations on several crops of pulses, vegetables and fruits have revealed that the reception and absorption of natural sunlight is essential for healthy constituents and taste of the eatables (natural products). These results make us rethink about the ancient scientific findings that taste and vitality of elements exist in the cosmos. Further, as is successfully practiced by the yogis, one might attract the desired elements from the subliminal domains of the corresponding cosmic centers using the subtle force of his mind.

The shastrik literature sometimes refers the vital energy (praña) of sun by a name

“gau”. It is said that this gau is essential for the strength and energy in every element in the physical manifestation of the world. Thus, the human body being a gigantic ensemble of the gamut of these elements, could be justifiably referred as ‘generated’ or ‘constituted by’ the sun…. Its movements, internal processing, nothing could survive without the energy (praña) received from the sun.

Sublimation or ignition of different substances emits different colors (or shades) of light energy. These might appear to be white or light yellow to the naked eyes in general. However, the dispersion of these through a prism would decompose the spectra of constituent colors. Finer optical studies reveal that every element emits its unique spectrum of light. For instance, the spectrum of sodium shows bright yellow and that of potassium shows red. The study of spectrum enables identification of the substances or recognition of the constituents of a new substance. This intimate and unique relation of a substance with light spectra explains how a material component of the human body could be described as ‘made up of’ or ‘generated by’ the sun and the moon, etc.

Now we look at the optical properties of matter and their scientific analysis from a different angle. The coexistence of light and inflammation is well known. This is a common observation of how light could be generated from ignition or sublimation of any substance. In ordinary state as well, every element emits light radiation though at a subtle frequency. Recent scientific theories approve the possibility of conversion of light particles into atoms and molecules of gross (material) elements. This cyclic relation (of mutual generation and conversion) of light energy and matter accounts for a unified existence of the physical (perceivable) and subliminal constituents of the human body.

As science proceeds further in deciphering the complexity of the gigantic network of the nerves and the brain functions, the knowledge of the influence of other divine (cosmic) powers would also become more transparent. Whatever has been known or studied so far about the brain and the endocrine system, supports the intrinsic vision of reality elucidated in the Indian Philosophy.

Anatomically, our brain is made up of two layers – formed by white and gray matter. The white matter constitutes the nerves and the ganglions. The nerves bundled in the ganglions are rich in phosphorous and are deeply immersed in the protoplasm. Phosphorous is constituted by the agni tatva (element of fire – energy) as reported in the Upanishads. The agni tatva present here (phosphorous and ATP in scientific terminology) is important for metabolism and the maintenance of energy for the body functions. Deficiency of the agni tatva in the body results in indigestion, weakness, lack of stamina and body-resistance and in diminished glow of the eyes and of the aura around the body. This agni tatva is the same as that present in the core of the sun.

Scientific findings reveal that the maintenance of phosphorous and hence the vital energy in the body does not depend as much on the food intake and digestion as it does upon the mental condition. The same is the case with many of the other biochemical and physiological functions. These findings indicate the scientific implications of the above-cited scriptural descriptions (about role of sun, etc) and also affirm the vital dependence of the gross body upon the subtle and support the double-body (gross and the subtle) theory of the Occult Anatomy.

The material based science has been able to study only the gross structure of the human body. Integration of the physics based life-sciences with metaphysics would explain the existence and functions of the subliminal body. This would also unfold the secrets of how the energy currents immanent in the cosmos generate or strengthen the elements of the gross body and endow its subliminal counterpart with intellectual trenchancy and enlightened wisdom.

The conscious energy of light is pervading in every element of gross matter (p—athvº tatva) present in our body. However, since light is not constituted of gross matter and its dispersed components have distinct nature, it is regarded as being generated by the energy waves from the cosmic ensemble. The currents of subliminal eternal force (of the flow of praña) immanent in these is referred in the Upanishads as the flow of the spark of divine powers. Its ‘transmission’ from different nakshatras (planets and stars, as word-meaning) is referred there to imply that the nature of light is different from that of the earthy elements (p—athvi tatva). Also the word nakyatra has a wider meaning here. As the detailed deliberations of the Upanishads highlight, this world corresponds to the cosmic centers or domains of dense superposition of subliminal (conscious) energy waves.

The flesh, blood and bones in our body are generated from the p—athvi and jala tatvas by different chemical reactions of the material elements. But, the vital energy, intellect, desires, knowledge, mental inspirations, emotional currents, etc are subliminal in nature. These might influence the bioelectrical and biochemical reactions in the body but cannot originate from matter or by any such reactions. These are described in the Upanishads as constituted of the akasya tatva. The prakash (light) tatva is referred as a manifestation of the akasya tatva in energy form. All activity and creativity in living beings become possible because of this prakasya tatva, which is pervading in the cosmos with enormous varieties of natural manifestation (e.g. different kinds of energy waves). Dissipation of this subliminal light from the body, in the event of death, eventually converts the gross body into an inert peace of matter that disintegrates by the natural process of biodegradation.

It is said that what we eat also contributes to the development of our mind. Here again it may be noted that it is not the material substance of the food, but its nature, the type of the prakasya tatva absorbed in it, that influences our mental tendencies. The ‘nuclei’ of the constituent elements of food are therefore regarded (in the rhetoric style of presentation of the scriptures) as the ‘atoms’ radiated or energized by some nakshatra in the cosmos. These induce specific effects in the gross and the subtle components of the human being. These kinds of subliminal effects are mentioned in the Upanishads as – “the glow of moon existing in the mind…”, etc. The gross effects of sunlight and moonlight on the quality of vegetables, food grains etc, and the effect of the latter on one’s physical and mental health are being studied in the modern laboratories too.

Scientific investigations into the origin and the source of power of the nerves have shown that their functional center lies in the brain. Memory layers have been identified as the bundles of fibers connecting and conveying the impulses of sensation and motion between the brain, spinal cord, ganglionic organs and other parts of the body. Recent investigations in psychology and neurology reveal that the emotional impulses are more dominating in triggering the nerve-functions as compared to the more familiar (extensively studied) role of the bioelectrical signal processing of the sensory and motor operations. These findings have provided newer directions to brain research.

Of late, psychology has become an integral part of research in neuroscience being conducted at several reputed laboratories. It is now an acceptable notion of medical sciences that one could sustain good health and vigor by cultivating positive thinking and piety of sentiments. Apart from the psychological remedies of biofeedback, confession and healing, etc, for elimination of the malice and weaknesses of mind, restraining from passions and creative orientation of aspirations are also advised towards psychosomatic treatments.

Active collaboration between research on the psychological and neuro-chemical fronts has revealed important effects of the subliminal currents of consciousness on the neuronal system. Recording of the changes in the brain impulses and the spectrum of the emission through the ganglions with the intensity of willpower – are among the remarkable results in this direction.

The sympathetic nerves are referred as negatively charged in terms of the impact of emotional currents. These are said to manifest the effects of the soft sentiments of feminine nature. A huge bundle of these nerves emerges from near the heart. The subliminal core of the heart is also described as the emotional center or the ocean of sentiments of a person. This system of nerves is therefore of significant importance in psychology. Deeper understanding of the science of aspirations, intrinsic experiences, as well as that of the neuro-physiological and other brain functions demands greater research on the vast range of the functions and subliminal sensitivity of the sympathetic nerves.

The pains and pleasures of the body, mind and the heart (sentimental core) are experienced through the conscious faculties of the brain. A lot remains to be deciphered about the subliminal powers of consciousness expressed or hidden in the human brain. With the realization of the infinite complexity of the human mind, the brain-scientists have now begun to accept its limitless potentials and its intrinsic linkage with the cosmic consciousness. The importance of spirituality is also being recognized and the need for research in the cosmic science of spirituality is being felt for a comprehensive study of the human mind and the brain system.

Studies are also continuing on the possible manifestation of the responses of the unconscious mind in the cerebrospinal system. Structurally, the cells in the cerebrospinal region appear to be tiny bundles of delicate fibers. These tentacles spread along the spinal column serve for all sensory experiences. The subliminal flow of conscious power along the suÌumn³ n³Ãº is also processed through these fibrous elements. These are said to make a functional linkage between the mind and the heart – by which, the mental impulses are felt in the heart and vice-versa.

Purification and spiritual evolution of mental powers could enable upward orientation of the currents of praña through these fibers along the suÌumn³ n³Ãº. This results in the activation of the unconscious (inner) layers of mind and thus effectuates creative linkage of the individual self with the cosmic Self. Acquisition of the Gnostic knowledge of the mysterious powers immanent in the limitless expansion of the cosmos then emerges as a natural consequence. The cerebrospinal region thus seems to contain the vihati dwara described in the Aitereya Upanishad.

Research on the cerebrospinal system of the human brain is still in its initial stage. The one, who would learn the technique of activating and controlling its core (the vihati dwara), would be able to visualize (know) the invisible space and the cosmic depth without any scientific instruments or spaceships. The science of yoga and spirituality could offer excellent support in guiding and accelerating deeper research on human brain and its extrasensory powers.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Spiritual Progress = Pujya Gurudev

Firm Determination is a Mark of Spiritual Progress

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Yavati dyavaprthivi varimna yavadapah sishyaduryavadagnih Tatasvamasi jyayan vishvaha mahanstasmai te kama nama it krnomi. -Atharvaveda 9/2/20

 
O will power! You are vaster than the extent of heaven and earth, and the expanse of water, and the spread of fire. You are ever great. I bow to you. The power inherent in will or determination is basically spiritual in nature. When a person shapes his imaginations with the chisel of intellect, cuts through the tangle of their web and converts their multiplicity into singleness, when all imaginations converge into one, only then determination starts to sprout. When all the emotions of heart, the entire vital force of the being and all the mental energies are poured into it, this tender shoot grows

to become stout. 

The entire existence, the whole personality comes to rest on it. Only in the lives of those who are able to do so, miracles of the power of determination are seen to happen. Inner determination does not develop in those whose personality is unintegrated and whose inner energy currents are flowing randomly in different directions. Such persons lack concentration, resolve and competence. For them, determination is merely a word which has no meaning. They will begin any work but are unable to stay with it for long, and abandon the task midway on some excuse or the other. If they cannot catch hold of a solid pretext, the lame plea of boredom or ennui is always handy to rescue them. 

Such persons do make resolves at the drop of a hat but simultaneously keep many options ready, whereas resolve or determination is a condition of optionlessness. Once the determination is made, its goal has got to be fulfilled. It should become synonymous with life, its whole identity and definition, the alter ego. One has to live for it and die for it; there can be no separate existence. Only in those persons in whose inner depths such complete conviction grows, there is a meaningful and full development of determination.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Tapa and Vrata = Pujya Gurudev

Tapa and Vrata Bring Order into Life

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhan Jyoti Sept.Oct.2006)

Yena devah svararuruhurhitva sharirammritasya nabhim| Tena geshma sukritasya lokam dharmasya vratena tapsa yashasyavah|| - Atharvaveda 4/11/6 "The Supreme Being by whose grace the self-realized, after discarding their mortal bodies, have attained to the elixir of moksha or salvation, by the grace of that Supreme Being, and by vrata and tapa we seekers of glory will also attain to that transcendental abode." Regulating the daily routine not only improves health but also imparts a certain glow to the whole jivana sadhana.

The daily routine may appear to constitute a small aspect of life, but on a deeper look we find a reflection of the whole gamut of life in it. The values of life, its aims, direction, ideals, goal - everything we can glimpse in the daily routine. One whose day-to-day life is haphazard and disorderly, remains confused and aimless in the larger scheme of life, too. This is a cardinal truth whatever arguments and excuses to the contrary may be proffered. An organized routine ensures refinement and priming of the energies of the body, mind and soul, and their application in a specific direction.

It is important to distinguish that order or organization does not merely mean the existence of a particular condition; the indication of a particular direction, too, is implicit in it. In disorder, on the other hand, there is neither any specific condition nor any direction. In order, there is spontaneous creation, whereas in disorder, only destruction flourishes. This truth can be perceived clearly in every walk of life and every nook of the society. Haphazard routine not only ruins health but also gives birth to serious psychological problems. Even the school going children and teenagers, not to speak of the adults, have become victims of these maladies. A disease like diabetes is not sparing even small children now. Miscellaneous studies point to only one factor as the root culprit, viz. the life-style has become unbalanced; the daily routine has become chaotic.

Sleep time is wasted in fun and frolic while that for waking and working is spent in sleeping. This topsy-turviness has antagonized nature. Experts of human physiology as well as of human psychology are convinced that man will have to suffer the ill consequences of tampering with the biological rhythm ordained by nature. And this is exactly what is happening. If we have to salvage the situation, there is no alternative to reversing the inverted. This is the only solution which can bring modern life presently groping in the maze of wilderness back on the right tracks. There is an illuminating anecdote often related among the Vaishnav saint community.

An elderly saint lived in Vrindavan, the dham or abode of Lord Krishna. Many among the wealthy and elite were his followers. They, too, suffered from the frailties which invariably develop from surfeit of money and power, but still they all possessed sense of veneration for their guru. They would often ask their guru about the ultimate secret of life. The saint fenced the question with a laugh because he knew that the underlying spirit of the question was not genuine enquiry but mere curiosity.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Know about OM = Pujya Gurudev

Experiencing Om

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Om is the principal Divine Sound. It is Supreme source of music. All the musical notes of Nature are interwoven in it. The chirping of birds sitting on the trees, the peaceful atmosphere of high mountain peaks, the melodious sound of waterfalls, the whistling sound of winds blowing past the trees, the roaring sound of ocean waves, the thundering sound of clouds  the essence of all these is hidden in Om.

Om is the seed of alphabets / words / syllables. All the words emerge from it and all of them get merged into it. Not only Vedas but also the Bible and other scriptures are the manifestations of Om. Gita and Gayatri too have emerged out of it. That is why Vedas say "One who has realized the essence of Om, nothing remains to be realized by him." Bible too repeats the same truth when it says: "In the beginning was the word; and the word was with God; and the word was God".                             Everything in this universe has been created by that primordial Sound. Om is the seed of this wonderful creation. It is the Supreme source of all kinds of energies. 
                      All the currents of energies responsible for sustaining and maintaining this vast universe originate from Om. That is why Upnishads say that everything in this world has emerged out of Om and everything will merge back in Om. All the mysteries from the subtlest to the most gigantic are hidden in this Om. Om is the Supreme symbol for meditation. 
                  All the mysteries are unraveled by meditating on Om and the imprisoned splendors within ourselves get released. Om is hidden within everyone but it is veiled by our ego-centered ignorance. As soon as imprisoned splendor of Om is liberated, all suffering gets transformed into bliss. This liberation is possible through meditation. It is through meditation and Gayatri Sadhana that the seed of Om is nurtured, sprouts up and grows into the tree of self-awakening. Then it no longer remains the subject of scriptural discussion but a concrete undeniable experience.

Thanks God,Thanks Sadguru

Shiv Sharma