Sixth Sense = Pujya Gurudev

Lets Awaken our Sixth Sense

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

The mysterious workings of nature are unfathomable by the human mind. Nature creates awesome earthly turmoil and at the same time sends down subtle forewarnings to the living beings to keep out of harm's way. Unusual barking of dogs, birds fleeing their nests, unexplained behavior of cats and many wild animals - all these signal to an impending natural disaster. These creatures give intimations of beneficial changes, too. 

How are they prescient of future events while ordinary man remains completely ignorant of these? Experts attribute this capability in animals to the wondrous gift of the sixth sense, which develops naturally in them. Sixth sense means going beyond the range of the five normal senses. Subtle perception of that which cannot be heard, seen or understood by the normal sense organs is the function of the sixth sense. The sudden flash of a scene before the eyes which is not actually there is no illusion or psychic disorder; it is the vision of this very sixth sense. Events taking place in the gross phenomenal world have their underlying causes in the subtle non-perceptible world. 

The pulsations of these events are present everywhere in the subtle world, and upon maturity appear in the form of gross phenomena. If our senses are sensitive enough, we can perceive these signals. But our gross sense organs have their limitations. However, one sense organ - the mind - has the potential to catch these radiating signals provided, of course, that it has been sufficiently refined and calmed. This is called the sixth sense. The animals, of course, do not have "mind" as we understand the term in the context of man. 

But experts opine that nature has endowed other creatures too with special instincts, which they use to thwart any danger as well as for other activities of daily life. Since these animals live their lives very close to nature their special instincts are highly developed. For this very reason, the pets generally have this instinct in diminished form, as their lives are not as closely enlivened with nature as that of their wild brethren.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Planets and Health = Pujya Gurudev

Do Planets Influence our Health

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Do Planets Influence our Health Impressions of the actions of the past, circumstances of the present and the unfolding schemes of the future are all stored in the hidden layers of human consciousness. Astrology decodes and interprets them in its own distinctive style. It searches for the root causes of adversities that crop up in life, and offers novel and appropriate preventive and remedial measures. The literal meaning of astrology, Jyotish, is "light". It is a light that locates and illumines the causative factors obscured from view in the mist of the past. Its aim is to make the present life trouble-free and happy. 

Astrologers hold that the creation is a special form of extremely condensed energy. This energy flow in the cosmos is uninterrupted and indivisible. It is one; only its shape and form undergo changes at different levels and strata. Essentially, we all are linked together. Is this linkage predictable or unpredictable? What is the pattern of this linkage? Where are we standing in the midst of this mega concentrate of energy? The occult science of Astrology was discovered to provide answers to these questions. Astrology studies man's position in the universe and his inter-relationship with the cosmic elements. 

It divides the cosmic flow of energy into three classes;  namely :- 9 grahas (planets) , 12 rashis (zodiac signs) and 27 naksatras (stars) .  They are considered to be connected with human consciousness. 

Astrology co-relates these energy groupings with individual organs of the human body. Ayurveda, on the other hand, links human nature with these celestial objects. Thus both ayurveda and astrology are essentially inter-related and approach the same target from different angles. That is why, we find the practice of ayurvedic medicines being taken to counter the ill-effects of planetary positions. A comprehensive study of this science is found in the famous treatise of Dr. K.S. Charak titled " Essentials of Medical Astrology ". According to ayurveda, ailments occur on account of an imbalance between the three elemental forces in the body " vata, pitta and kapha " called tridosha. 

A malfunctioning of vata gives rise to neurological disorders, joint pains etc. A pitta imbalance produces fever as well as liver and gall bladder problems. Kapha is linked with breathing problems, cold, asthma etc.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Old Habits = Pujya Gurudev

Is it Possible to Change Old Habits ?

=Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Habits play a crucial part in life. 

The personality of a person is determined by his habits. Good habits make a person gentle, genial and great while bad habits deform and disfigure a personality.
Everyone is aware of the importance of habits and many wish to change their bad habits in order to improve their character, traits and personality. However, people complain that they find it well nigh impossible to uproot their deeply ingrained bad habits. This is a counsel of despair and is not true. It is, of course, difficult to uproot and change bad habits, but it is not impossible. If a person is determined and musters the requisite willpower, he can certainly succeed in his efforts. 

What is a habit? 

It is a mental rut created by mechanical repetition of a task. The tyres of a car travelling on a muddy road make a distinct impression. Similarly, the repetition of a task makes an impression on the mind. The more we repeat a task, the deeper becomes the impression. Every habit, thus, gets firmly fixed in the mind. A habit can be uprooted by steadily and persistently working against it. Just as performing a task again and again creates a habit, performing an opposite task again and again eliminates it. 

If the mind forces you towards the old habit, gently but firmly divert it towards the positive habit you want to imbibe instead. It is always easy to go back to old habits and therefore the mind gets effortlessly inclined towards them. 

The formation of a new habit is therefore very difficult initially. However, with repeated performance, it takes roots and becomes a part of ones nature. The refinement of gross and perverse tendencies in a persons personality or bad manners in his conduct is possible only by long-term practice and unwavering determination. 

Every self-confident person, if he wishes, can dramatically change for the better his mentality and outward conduct through regular practice. 

Children are particularly vulnerable to easily imbibe good or bad habits. They constantly imitate the habits of people they come into contact with. To make our children well-mannered, cultured and responsible citizens, it is necessary that we ourselves present an example of an ideal conduct before them so that they can follow in our footsteps and enrich their lives with inspiration and enthusiasm.
If parents exhibit laziness or misbehaviour in their conduct (for example in getting up late in the morning, conversing rudely with people, making inappropriate gestures, etc.), then how can we expect their children, who remain with them for 15-16 hours a day, become civilised and well-mannered?
To an extent we ourselves determine the environment around us. A cultured person will keep his things in an orderly and appropriate way. His shoes, clothes, hat and even his comb would be clean and tidy. 

There would be no dirt on his shoes; his clothes would be ironed and folded neatly. He would appear attractive with simple limited set of clothes compared to an untidy person with a overstuffed wardrobe of costly clothes. He would attain happiness with minimum expenditure. He would not be consumed with the desire to possess a palatial house. In a small house, or even a room, he would live a rich, refined, cultured and caring life. Good manners do not mean how we verbally interact with other people; they mean that we conduct ourselves with dignity, humility and warmth. 

You may ask: how can one say that I am conducting myself in a reprehensible and disorderly manner? It is easy and self evident. You know that by waking up regularly, exercising the body regularly, having health-giving eating habits, remaining tension-free and taking a good rest to keep the body vibrant and healthy. But alas! How many people can control their eating preferences? In todays hectic lifestyle, how many can remain tension-free? In the mad race for earning more and more money, people have become careless with respect to their health. Many people have enough wealth, which permits them good lifestyle, food, clothes and palatial house.
Yet they remain in a state of perpetual tension and agitation. Thus we live in a self created hell.. Other examples of self-destructive habits are to watch a movie even though the eyesight is weak; to smoke tobacco, drink alcohol knowing well the damaging effects it has on the body; etc. It becomes the bounden duty of mature and responsible members of society to be vigilant against imbibing ruinous habits and guide and inspire their children by personal example to grow into healthy, happy caring and warm-hearted citizens.

Thanks Sadguru,Thanks GOD,

Shiv Sharma

Immense Power-III, Pujya Gurudev

Thought Source of Immense Power-III

=Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

The gigantic mines of metals and minerals evince this fact. Similar is the case with superposing of sound waves etc. The cycle of their circular motion and recurrence with further superimposition of similar thought waves creates a subtle energy field in the etheric expansion that widens and affects more and more people having even the slightest receptivity to those thoughts, with its larger and sharper reach. This is why the books we read, the ambience we live in most of the time, or the people we interact with, indirectly influence our thinking and tendencies. This is how the company of drunkards produces more drunkards, that of thieves makes others thieves and so on; this is how criminals form stout gangs. This is how the inspiring proximity of saints, great personalities, or sagacious thoughts enlightens and elevates many others. What kinds of thought waves influence one and to what extent? This depends upon what his mind is prepared for and what are its own intrinsic inclinations and aspirations. Radio stations or satellite sites broadcast/transmit varieties of programs, but our radio or television sets receive only those for which they are set/tuned.

Our minds are also like antennae or receiving stations for thought waves they are naturally tuned to or vigorously trained for. Good people with alert mind feel some kind of repulsion from cruel, cunning or debased people; whereas the magnetism of morally pure, elevated and kindhearted personalities often attracts them. Contrary is the case with people having mental vices, evil characters or perverse tendencies. 

All of the infinitely many kinds of thought waves floating in the subliminal layers of the cosmic expansion may touch every mental body at some point of time, but attract or influence only those that are sensitive or receptive to them or have compatible nature. Unstable (agile), dormant and weak minds do not have any firm tuning and are therefore easily influenced by any kind of thought waves that have strong force of attraction. We often consider the actions of the body and its five senses as the cause of what makes good or bad karma (destiny). But the shastras (vedic scriptures) also in detail the effects of mentally committed papa (sins) and punya (noble, ethical deeds) in shaping our future destiny. As discussed above, our virtuous and evil thoughts indirectly make corresponding contributions in the subtle environment and hence on many others; so these invisible actions of our mind also become parts of our karma. 

The more and deeper the involvement of our mind and hence of the inner self in the thoughts, the more intense and lasting would be the impression of the associated karma in the script of our future destiny. The social norms and governmental laws may constrain the conduct and visible deeds of a person. But everyone is totally free in the unlimited expanse of mental creations, imaginations, thoughts, feeling etc. This is why most of us don't care for the immense capabilities and impact of the hidden powers of mind and the inner self. The shastric concept (affirmation) of mental papa and punya should serve as a timely warning for us. The kinds of imaginations and thoughts ones mind is inclined to, or is often engrossed in, determine and influence his attitude, mental tendencies and hence his actions because of the compounding effect of the thought waves of coherent quality.

 Thought power is like fire or electricity, which should be used wisely and cautiously; little carelessness may cause havoc in the subtle world and eventually give rise to equally hazardous consequences in the visible realms of life. If used wisely and constructively, the thought power like the thermal, electrical or nuclear powers, could prove to be a boon for the individuals as well as for the society and the world. 

The treasure of this natural bequest grows with sagacious use. If instead of preserving, guarding and expanding it, we drain out this wealth haphazardly or let it be misused by evil instincts, we would be the culprits, the sinful destroyers of our present as well as the future lives. When we use our materialistic possessions and resources so intelligently, then why should not we do the same for the precious mental property? The currents of our thought waves subliminally create our worlds. Our thoughts inspire and direct our ascent or descent. What kind of thought waves our minds are sensitized to also depends upon the quality and depth of our own thoughts. We should therefore be aware and alert about what we are thinking, imagining, aspiring for, or emotionally engrossed in. If untoward thoughts are allowed to occupy our mind and are let free to spread their roots, we are, unknowingly, inviting ill future for ourselves. It will therefore be better that we let only constructive, sane thoughts enter our minds. Cultivation of positive thinking, engrossed reading or listening and contemplation over elevated thoughts, and training the mind to invoke the corresponding thought waves are the keys to progressive and blissful present, a brighter future and sublime transmutation of the human self.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Immense Power-II, Pujya Gurudev

Thought Source of Immense Power

=Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Throwing a stone in a pond produces wavy currents of water on the surface. Our thoughts also do something similar in the cosmic pool of ether. The waves generated by thoughts are more subliminal and of higher order than the light or sound waves. These waves do not cease and continue to traverse in the cosmic expansion with superimposition on compatible thought waves. Because of their circular trajectory, they eventually return back to their origin with more intense effect (due to superimposition), while also influencing on their way the like-minded people, or those whose minds are receptive to those kinds of thought waves.

They have negative or positive impact, depending upon the quality of the thought, upon the person from whose mind the thought had emerged and also upon others in their domain of influence. Thoughts of animals are nothing but mental instincts pertaining to the sustenance of their gross body; these instincts are usually weak and short-lived and are educed as per the Natures arrangement for their food, growth, reproduction, self-defense, etc. But the force of human emotions, desires, thinking, mental sensitivity, convictions, faith, determination, etc is immeasurably powerful and profound. 

The nature and degree of this force varies among humans as per their intrinsic character and intensity of their thoughts. Most people today live an extrovert life generally revolving around sensual pleasures and satisfaction of ego in one form or the other. Therefore, their thought waves are also feeble and dispersed in general. It is the strength of the inner self and the concentration of radiant thoughts that generate intense and powerful thought waves. What induces radiance and force in the thoughts? If the answer is to be crypt, it would be  the spiritual light and inner force of emotions pertaining to noble ideals. Only the elevated and enlightened emotions of this kind can inspire the flow of virtuous and trenchant thoughts.

The altruist sentiments, piety of character and eminence of endeavors of great souls generate corresponding thought waves and thus bestow enormously more benefits upon the world than the noted contributions of their visible deeds. Presence of such sentiments and mental purity in other (ordinary) people also contributes, though invisibly, in the refinement of the subtle world by combining with compatible thought waves in proportion to their strength and intensity. 

The same is true of the negative effects of the untoward or debased thoughts. The firm determination and extreme negative psychology of the demonic minds, dreaded criminals and terrorists etc make the impressions of their perverse thoughts, scandalous intellectual sharpness quite intense and dense. People with weaker mental makeup are often easily influenced by their thought waves. At times, the resonance of collective thought waves of similar kinds makes them powerful even if they are individually infirm; for example, this is what is happening with erotic thinking these days. Accumulation of similar or compatible elements appears to be the law of Nature. This is what accounts for formation of seas and oceans. Individually the metal particles lie unnoticed in the soil. However, wherever they are gathered, their force of affinity compounds exponentially and leads to formation of huge repository of that particular substance. 

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Immense Power = Pujya Gurudev

Thought Source of Immense Power

=Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Sitting near the fire warms and protects us even in harsh winter. Fire spreads the heat in its surrounding area. That way, our body also has heat in it. The heat inside could be experienced in the expired breath. The clothes we wear also become warm by the heat of the body. Wearing woolen clothes in winter protects the emission of bodys heat outside and thus helps keeping the body at natural temperature. The body-system also possesses many other kinds of energies in it. But most prominent, intense and radiant of the powers a human being is endowed with is the thought-power.

The thought-power and willpower are generated in the mind. Numerous mind-boggling examples of the immensity and trenchancy of these mental powers are available in the history of mankind. Paragons are born by awakening of these hidden sources of inner force. Many demonstrations of willpower are recorded in the different parts of the world; some are even entered in the Guinness Book of World Records; these often appear miraculous to the masses. While most of us might have experienced willpower as the strength of determination, only few would know that thought-power and willpower are manifestations of the same subliminal force of the higher mind and are implicitly the same. Mental concentration is an effect as well as a generator of this power. Every impulse of mind is also a refection of this power; enlightened and deep thoughts are more evolved expressions of this power, which is also regarded by the modern researchers of metaphysics and parapsychology as a source for deciphering the extrasensory psychic force. 

The American Society for Psychic Power, the Parapsychology Lab of the Duke University and several other research institutes of global repute have collected and reviewed many authentic examples that signify the importance of the willpower or thought-power. The amazing demonstrations of willpower of Red Cereus were widely published in the newspapers and magazines of the USA in the early 20th century. Using the focused force of his thought-power, Isaac Borne of Spain had helped in locating the ships submerged and lost in the gigantic depths of the Pacific Ocean about three-four decades back when no other expertise or technological advancement could provide any clue. All the supramental talents of this kind including clairvoyance, precognition, telepathy, etc, are expressions of the thought-power or the willpower.

At times this power is expressed as a supernatural potential of the physical body, but its origin is always rooted in the subtle cores of the mental body. Most of us define and experience thoughts as the language of the conscious mind and regard thought-power as the impact of thoughts on intellectual perceptions and activities. Its inherent equivalence with willpower may therefore be difficult for us to visualize. We should note here that every vibration, every perception and expression of the mind (the conscious mind, the intellect, as well as the inner mind) is a thought. This is how emotion is regarded as a higher order thought and willpower as a sublime expression of the thought-power.

Willpower could also be generated by intense control and focusing of elevated thought-power. Once awakened, the willpower or force of intrinsic inspiration can help activating the otherwise dormant folds of mind and thus induce intellectual and emotional evolution. History of mankind has witnessed its miraculous impact in transmuting dullards into eminent scholars, preposterous fools into distinguished talents. How and from where does this power emerge? It is hidden in the subliminal cores of our minds. 

Human mind is indeed a majestic bequest of the Supreme Creator. However advanced it may be, no super-computer of the world could ever equal the Natures masterpiece  the human brain. Even the perceivable faculties of mind reflected in wisdom, intellectual and creative talents, memory, eloquence, etc are unlimited; then what to say about its preeminent inner powers? It is a pity that we, the intelligent beings, use only a negligible fraction of this infinite treasure hidden in our own self. Moreover, whatever fraction of this power we are able to awaken, we spend (or rather waste!) it only in earning and gathering comforts for the physical body and in worthless ego-driven activities and passions. As the Sun spreads the heat and light in all directions, our mind also continuously emits energy radiations in the cosmos through the medium of thoughts, emotions, desires, determinations, inspirations etc. Every human being thus inadvertently influences  even without saying or visibly doing anything the ambience and hence many others around him via these mental radiations.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Spiritual Greatness -III, Pujya Gurudev

Steps Towards Achieving Spiritual Greatness 

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

t is certainly unwise to waste one's vital energies by reckless indulgence in worldly pleasures. A human being possesses unique qualities of will, discrimination, choice and thinking which put him apart from other creatures of this world. The Creater has gifted these qualities to man to achieve some great objective. This can be attained by the purity of thoughts and deeds which is possible only through self- control. In this connection, this is what the Divine Teacher of the Gita says - 

Asanyatatmana yogodushprapya itimematih| 

Vashyatmana tu yatata Shakyoavaptumumayatah| --- Gita-VI /36 

"It is difficult to attain yoga (union with the Divine) by those who lack self-control. Only those persons who have self-control are able to succeed in their efforts towards self-realisation." 
Self-control is the cornerstone of the edifice of character.Virtues like compassion, detachment, sacrifice, etc. are qualities of a calm,quiet and controlled mind. Mechanical,unbridled, haphazard thoughts lead to similar deeds. If our minds and senses function as obedient, well-honed instrument ( not as despotic masters), liberation will be ours even while doing our worldly duties.Living in the world but not of it. 

Another deadly foe in the path of achieving greatness is ego. Due to their selfish view point, egotists inflict pain on others. But the evil tendency of exploitation of others on the basis of force makes a person fall. So long as this attribute remains, a person might collect huge wealth in the mundane world; but in fact he will be considered a pauper. 

The wealth of a person, in no way, reflects his greatness. Had this been the case, physically strong people, rich people and the ill-famed leaders and dacoits would have been worshipped everywhere. They would have got applause of humanity. But, actually, this is not true. A person gets the honour of being called "great" only when he serves others wholeheartedly. There are millions of people who are living in adversity. Persons working sincerely for the uplift of such people may get the honour of being called great. 

True greatness of a person is not determined by his transitory achievements in the mundane world. A person who is humble, kind, compassionate, pure of heart and generous, may be living an ordinary life but he is a great soul. Such greatness can be attained by a four - step self-effort: Sadhana (self-discipline), Swadhyaya (self-introspection), Sanyam (self-control) and Seva (service).

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Spiritual Greatness -II, Pujya Gurudev

Steps Towards Achieving Spiritual Greatness 

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Satsang is certainly helpful in the task of soul-growth.However, under the present circumstances, hypocrisy that has spread in this field, produces more harm than benefit. One is bombarded with worthless, conservative, fatalistic and escapist thoughts in these satsangs. Unrefined and unscrupulous persons masquerade as Gurus and in order to increase their following advocate cheap recipes or tell mesmerising stories of some devi-devata (deities) and give false hopes of heaven or salvation to credulous masses.True seekers have to beware of such tricksters. 

These days, by and large, the need of Satsang should be fulfilled through Swadhyay. Of course, if genuine Satsang is available where one can get true guidance for the refinement of life, then one should avail of it and get its benefits. But there is no point in going to a place or a person where time is wasted in useless and ridiculous day-dreaming. One can get the benefit of the company of great souls at home by regularly studying their literature which brightens inner light, refines the character and produces harmony in our beliefs, deeds and behaviour. 

Swadhyaya does not mean merely reading books. Its true aim is to get inspiration for introspection. An ancient scripture says: 

Ratyahampratyavekshetajanashcaritamatamanah| 
Kinnu me pasubhistulyam kinnu satpurushairiva|| 

Every person should go on vigilantly watching one's thoughts, emotions and deeds with a view to eradicate negativity and inculcate nobility. This method of self-introspection can also be called Swadhyaya. Those who have done Swadhyaya in this way have attained the supreme goal of life : self-realisation. Unbridled self-indulgence is a most serious obstacle in the attainment of greatness. The circumstances of sorrow and pain, poverty and degradation in the human life flow from physical and mental indolence and self-indulgence. Self-control is the key to heaven. It leads to inner peace and bestows divine knowledge, which illuminates the entire life of a human being. In order to achieve spiritual freedom and abundance, a well-regulated routine is a must. The meaningfulness of human life depends on whether the goal of salvation has been achieved by making purposeful use of this embodied life. This is achievable only through self-control. 

Thanks God, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Spiritual Greatness = Pujya Gurudev

Steps Towards Achieving Spiritual Greatness 

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

True greatness (as opposed to worldly bigness) can be attained by vigilantly pursuing high ideals. Once we are able to awaken our Inner Being and mould our lives in the light of inspirations coming from within, it is possible to attain greatness of the spirit even while living ordinary lives in the worldly sense. The basic hurdle in the way of attaining spiritual awakening is our false sense of identity -The Ego. 

Ego can be dissolved through Divine Grace only; and hence the importance of constant remembrance, prayer and contemplation of God for true aspirants of the Divine . Cultivation of values like faith, compassion, love is essential in Sadhana. But the love for God is the highest of all virtues.It is also called devotion, which is of greatest help in the realization of God. This has been the experience of all saints and seers of all ages and cultures.. In fact, some embodied medium is required to augment the practice of devotion. Normally, the practice of augmenting greatness through the medium of devotion to God starts with devotion to Guru (spiritual guide). Therefore, in our religion and culture, Upasana (worship by sitting nearby) has been considered the first and compulsory step in spiritual Sadhana. 

Among the various means of progress and upliftment, Swadhyaya (study of spiritual texts) and Satsang (company of masters who have attained self-realisation) have been considered exceptionally fruitful and convenient. In a way "Swadhyaya" too is Satsang of thoughts. But the proximity of awakened souls produces deep effect on the innerself. The nearness of saints fructify rapidly through their speech, thoughts, aura and behaviour. There is no better way than Satsang for the refinement of self. Even incorrigibly wicked and immoral persons have been transformed into great souls by the effect of Satsang. (Countinue)

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Humanity-II, Pujya Gurudev

Humanity: Our Precious Heritage-II 

Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

After thorough sadhanas and the resulting experiences, saints concluded that everyone is entitled to God's gifts, so they should be distributed amongst all. By pursuing this guideline, the emergence of free happiness can take place and the world can be kept secure. Without it, there is no other way to establish peace in human life. Worldly glories are automatically attracted to the one who can differentiate between justice and injustice and between righteousness and unrighteousness, and who perceives the same consciousness in all living beings. 

A person experiences happiness as a by-product resulting from voluntary sacrifice for the welfare of others. A person whose heart is filled with loving kindness becomes so powerful and capable that material pleasures seem trivial to him. What could be the value of transient pleasures compared to the effulgence of the soul? It is beyond the intellectual capacity of the modern man to contemplate the achievements of sages like Vashishtha, Vishwamitra, Gautum, Dadhichi, Kanva, Angira, Jamadagni, Bhardwaj, etc. 

The whole world bowed before their spiritual and material attainments. Through their tapas they had command over the sublime energies of the universe. They could have, if they wished, accumulated material wealth in unimaginable proportions. But they never desired it. Compared to the welfare of humanity they considered the pleasures of the world worthless. They were ever ready to serve mankind. One of the most famous cases is of sage Dadhichi, who permitted Lord Indra to take his bones and construct an indestructible weapon called "vajra" to defeat the evil forces threatening mankind. Dadhichi experienced immense happiness in self-sacrifice, which he had not experienced by attaining spiritual and material powers. Achievements are meant to aid man realise his goal. Man is born for the service of humanity...

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Humanity-1, Pujya Gurudev

Humanity: Our Precious Heritage 

Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

No country, community or culture has made a more subtle and deep study of human life as the rishis. It was not an easy task to study the subtle nature of man. For this, Indian sages and saints gave up material comforts and consumerist attitude and researched human life through sadhana. Keeping in view the inferences so drawn they prepared an exhaustive code of conduct and gave instructions to lead the life accordingly. 

An perennial Philosophy and an ideal model of Culture evolved in India, the like of which is not found in any other country. It is so extraordinary and comprehensive in every respect that even a little contemplation of its glorious aspects overwhelms our hearts with reverence for the sages. When the whole world was following the policy of selfishness, whereby a person would accumulate in excess and deprive others, sages in India mused what was the uniqueness of man if he continues practising this dictum? Everybody is desirous of indulging in pleasures. 

Everyone is willing to commit unethical deeds for earning money. The society is tormented by people's habit of loafing around in idleness. Who does not crave to eat the best food and wear the best clothes? All these are the features of an ordinary man. Many of these tendencies are found in animals too, and if man also wallows in them, what is his specialty? Such an attitude does not make the right use of his knowledge, intellect and wisdom. In spite of being the possessor of extraordinary strength and abilities, if man leads a contemptible life, then where does lie the meaningfulness of the human existence?

Superior possessions should be used for superior deeds only Indians have apprehended this fact. For this very reason alone our authority and eminence have survived the vicissitudes of the tides of time. The problem of bread and butter could not be more important for man than the need to understand the aim of life. Even an atheist will accept that human life is a rare gift. It would be unwise to waste it like ordinary people. Going in an opposite direction of the blind routine of the masses, the purpose of human life can be discovered. 

The outcome of living life casually "pain and suffering" is evident to us all. Therefore the sages asked: why not go in an opposite direction and discover some new facts? With this ideology a new philosophy emerged in India. It inspired the birth of sadhana. The achievements (siddhis) of sadhana were majestic and great. The dispersal of even a fraction of these achievements resulted in heavenly happiness in the world. The name of these achievements was "humanity", meaning practising the dictum "I do not want it, you take it. Nothing belongs to me; everything belongs to the Almighty God" (i.e. selflessness and sacrifice). 

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

grand yajnas = Pujya Gurudev

The Purpose and significance of grand yajnas

Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

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

“Om bhur bhuvah svah, tatsaviturvarenyam bhargo devasya dhimahi, dhiyo yonah pracodayat’’ //

 Sisters and Brothers, As you might be aware, in the ancient times, people used to solve all their problems by collective discussions and efforts. They were hardly dependent on the emperors, governments or any other administrator. Even now the role of society is more prominent than the government or executive bodies in many respects. The latter can administrate broad issues pertaining to the gross system of life  including defense, transport, taxation, economic growth, civil-legislation, etc. However, they cannot govern the mentality and sentiments of the people. For example, the disciplines of chastity, integrity and moral conduct are also cultivated and maintained by the prevailing social norms and peoples personal trait and cannot be imposed or nurtured by any governmental machinery. 

The philosophers, religious leaders and thinkers can influence peoples faith and hence the social trends, to a great extent, if their objectives are devoted to peoples welfare and their missions associated with the grass-roots. The human nature is such that it is allured by worldly attractions and pleasures and often gives rise to varied degrees of fluctuations and deformations in the socio-cultural values and customs.

The leaders, the savants who care for peoples good bear the responsibility to provide effective solutions for control and improvement. Looking at the ancient history and traces of the divine Indian Culture, we find that Grand Yajnas (Mahayajnas) like the "Rajsuya" and "Ashvamedha" used to provide the medium and ambience for brain storming sessions towards meeting the challenges of the present, rectifying the wrongs and planning and implementing the desired plans of action for better future. You must have heard of these in the context of Mahabharata and Ramayana. King Yudhishthira had conducted a "Rajsuya Yajnas" after the devastating war of Mahabharata.

 The purpose of this grand yajna was to rebuild a united, sovereign, strong nation with collective participation of all the heads of the states within and around the country. Lord Rama had organized a "Ashvamedha Yajnas" to eliminate the evils and expand the divine values in the social and national system and in peoples life at large. By sending the symbolic horse (Ashva) all over the Indian Territory, he had spread the message of this epochal refinement and had also invited the saints, sages, savants, reformers, rulers and all the awakened souls to gather at one place for mutual exchange of views and to chalk out what was necessary for accomplishing this gigantic transformation.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Vastu Shastra-III, Pujya Gurudev

Vastu Shastra : An Established Science-III :

The importance of northeast angle in Vastu Shastra

Pt. Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

The houses constructed in contravention of these guidelines are often found attracting adversities such as theft, disputes, court-cases, severe losses, poverty, acute illness, etc. The treatises like "Vishwakarma Prakash" attribute special importance to the ishana angle (the northeast direction) in the selection and architectural map of the plot, construction of the house (building) and even the exterior and interior structure and settings of the rooms. This direction is regarded as highly surcharged with divine energies. This is why the scriptures guide  "Ishanyam Devatageham" (temples, shrines and devotional meditation centers/rooms should be constructed in the northeast corner.). As the Sun rises from the East, one naturally gets maximum (vital) energy from it in this direction. The northeast direction is enriched with the confluence of this energy pool with the magnetic and subtler energy currents of the earth and the etheric hole. 

The rishis, the Indian sages of Vedic Age had mastered this knowledge. This is why the sacred pilgrimage centers and ashrams of spiritual training in the ancient times were established in this direction near the holy rivers. We can still feel the distinctly enchanting, energizing and enlightening ambience at such sites. Modern scientists are well aware of the vital role of the heat, light and enormous kinds of energy radiations sent by the Sun on the earth. These are the determinants of the atmospheric and other changes, energy balances and natural phenomena on the earth. Although under a different approach and in a different language, the principles and theories of Vastu Shastra thoroughly take into account these interconnected effects together with the geological and geophysical aspects. 

The manifestations of God or the divine powers described in the vastucakra and invited and worshipped during the sacraments of Vastu Pooja are mostly the invocations of the energy currents and forces emanating/radiating from the Sun. India is the land instinct with sanctity and religious rituals. Spiritual energy is actively pervading in its sublime environment, in every aspect of its culture. This is why the Vedic knowledge of vastu is also associated with religious rituals here. Thus adoption of the principles and disciplines of Vastu Shastra also helps in spiritual endeavors and growth. 

The views of Vastu-expert Shri Gauru Tirupati are worth noting here. This scholar from Andhra Pradesh has written in "Vastu Sandesh" that the secret of Vastu Shastra lies in ideal and harmonious utilization of the five basic elements (the panca tatvas) and the hidden powers of Nature in the house. This is why enlightened persons prefer designing and constructing their houses according to the guidelines of Vastu Shastra. Shri Gauru also cites the examples of the great shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, etc in the Himalayas and those of the historic temples of Jagannath in Puri and Balaji at Tirupati etc, whose construction is in tune with the Vedic principles of Vastu Shastra. This is why these pilgrimage have been the source of attraction and uplifting experiences for millions of devotees and visitors from different parts of the globe since immemorial times. 

The shrines built as per the Vastu-instructions are said to work like (small or big) reservoirs of cosmic energy. This explains the emphasis laid in the Indian cultural customs upon preserving at least one room or corner of the house (in appropriate direction) for home-temple. Idols or pictures of Gods are also enshrined and worshipped in some hospitals, trade centers, etc owned by the believer in Vastu Shastra. As the home-temples or worship-chambers happen to be given paramount importance in a building according to Vastu Shastra, the ishana angle (northeast direction) being the principle axis of the location of the former also gets a prominent role in archeology. The east and the north directions are of significance in the Indian culture. 

The Vedic literature refers to the sun as the "soul of the world" and it is also regarded as the source of vital power and health. The sun rises in the east, therefore meditating on the soothing radiance of the rising Sun in this direction in the early hours of the dawn is of great devotional and spiritual significance. The vedic scriptures on yoga describe the extrasensory energy centers like the sahastrar cakra, brahmrandhra and agya cakra to be subtly located in the north pole (cerebrum region) of our brain. Meditating on the rising sun activates these centers and thus awakens supernatural talents and powers. 

The idols of deities are enjoined to be kept so that the devotee faces the north or the east direction during worship. The Shastras recommend specific devotional practices for specific attainments. The directions, which the devotee faces during such sadhana are also of deep significance it is said that the devotees praying for wealth should face the north, those aspiring for knowledge should face the east and those searching for peace and happiness should face the west. Whatever directions are prescribed in Vastu Shastra for the palaces, big buildings or major constructions, are equally applicable for small flats or rooms. For example, in a two room flat, one may place the idol or picture of the ishta devata1 in the northeast corner of the house or any one of the rooms. 

The size of the worship spot should be such that it does not occupy excessive space. For example, in small rooms, it could provide just enough space for one person to sit for devotional practice at a time. In case it is not possible to find a corner in the northeast direction, it will be most suitable to keep the idol or picture of deity facing the west so that the devotee would face the east while sitting or standing in front of it. Facing the east helps in rapid progress in mental concentration and is of special significance for the devotees of Gayatri Meditation, There should be only one place of worship and devotion in a house. This being the focus of reverence for every member of the family becomes surcharged in its holy ambience and also helps in maintaining understanding, peace, harmony and love, in the family.
The northeast direction is referred as a sacred direction in Vastu Shastra. We should also maintain a state of cleanliness and purity in this direction in our house and workplace. No heavy item (e.g, almirah, and table) should be kept in this direction; and should also avoid keeping a broomstick or any other sanitary item there. If not used for any devotional purposes, this corner (direction in the house) may be left clean and empty even if it happens to be located in the living room or the bedroom. Keeping dirt and debris in this corner of the house is said to attract malevolent effects such as difficulties, losses, tensions in personal (familial) relationships etc. 

However, the readers of Akhand Jyoti should be well aware that the Vastu principles and effects, like effects of any other forces in the gross manifestation of Nature, are only secondary to ones inner strength and dedicated endeavors towards soul growth. One need not panic if it is not possible to follow some or even none of the guidelines provided in the Vastu shastra.. We should not forget that our rishis had taken full measure of the dimensions and limitations of human life and had provided humanly practical remedies against challenges of destiny or circumstances. Likewise they have also laid down guidelines to minimize or eliminate the negative effects, if any, of having a house designed against the Vastu principles. We shall endeavour to discuss these in the succeeding instalments..
Notes: 1. Ishta devata: Divine manifestation that is the focus of ones devotion. 

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Vastu Shastra -II, Pujya Gurudev

Vastu Shastra : An Established Science-II :

The importance of northeast angle in Vastu Shastra

Pt. Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

Ishanyam Devatageham Purvasyam Snanamandiram | Agneyam Pakasadanam Bhandaragaramuttare ||

Agneyapurvayormadhyeda Dhimanthanamandiram | Agnipreteshayormadhye Ajyageham Prashasyate ||

Yamyanaiatayormadhye Purishatyaga Mandiram | Naiatyambupayormadhye Vidyabhyasasyamandiram ||

Pashchimanilyormadhye Rodanartha Gahamasmatam | Vayavyottararmadhye Ratigeham Prashasyate ||

Uttareshanayormadhye ushadharthantukarayet | Naiatyam Sutikageham Napanam Bhumimichchitam ||

Meaning: The worship and meditation chamber or temple should be constructed in the ishana angle (corner of the plot/house in the northeast direction); bathroom in the eastern direction, kitchen in the agneya angle (corner in the southeast direction), strong room or locker (safe for money and jewellery etc) should be made in the vayavya (northwest) direction and storeroom in the north. The portion between the northeast and eastern direction should be used for storage of dairy produce: milk, curd, buttermilk, butter, ghee etc. 

The sector of the plot/house between the south and the southwest (naiatya) direction should be used for toilets and septic tank. Study room should be in the west or between the southwest and the west directions. 

The portion between the west and the northwest (vayavya) direction is best suited for constructing the solitude chamber (where one could sit in the moments of sadness and grief) and/or the family conference room (where people in the joint family could discuss family matter of mutual concern). The entertainment space should be provided nearby or in the northwest direction. Living rooms for the married couples should be made somewhere between the northwest and north direction. The portion (of the plot or the house) between the north and the northeast (ishana) direction is best suited for the construction of clinics, hospitals or the room for patient-care. The corner in the southwest direction should be used for labor room (for the birth and nursing of infants). 

The dining hall should be placed in the west; bedroom in the south, the reception or drawing room should lie between the east and northeast and the grocery store and cattle shed (if any) in the northwest direction. The weapons room (or room for security guards duty), if any, should be in the southwest angle. 

The northwest direction is also suitable for garage (parking space for vehicles, if any). The garage could be made in the southeast direction as well, but the northeast direction should be avoided for this purpose. The well or water-tanks should be made in the east, west or north directions. The above scriptural description is a broad classification that could be used as per the rooms or the utilities required in the house (or any building) being constructed. If felt necessary, one can also make minor alterations or modifications in the existing settings of the house or building already built and in use, in order to minimize the adverse effects or to gain extra benefits of vastu. The scriptures unequivocally affirm the favorable and auspicious effects of architecture and interior designs as per the guidelines of Vastu Shastra.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma