Energy : Pujya Gurudev

Yantras The Vedic Symbols of Energy

(Akhabd Jyoti,Nov.-Dec.2005)

Like the Vastu Shastra, the use of "Yantras", especially the Shri Yantra, Ganesha Yantra, etc has become quite popular these days. Exploiting the trends of mob psychology, several models of these Yantras have surfaced in the market and, in tune with the culture of commercialization; some have also become logos of advertisements. It is pathetic to see that a super-science painstakingly discovered by the dedicated efforts of the Vedic Rishis for spiritual, intellectual and worldly well-being of mankind is being wantonly distorted and used so callously and often wrongly through the Internet in the present so called scientific and technological age. "Akhand Jyoti"  

The Light Divine  is devoted to bring you the righteous knowledge extracted from authentic studies of researchers of this occult science. This article attempts to introduce the readers to the subject matter explaining the rationale behind the mystic designs of Yantras and their significance. Among the sacred symbols compiled / designed by the Vedic Rishis, Yantras are predominantly regarded as devices for devotional sadhanas. These are used as tools for mental concentration and meditation. Keeping specific Yantra in specific direction in the home and worshiping it and concentrating upon it is said to have distinct auspicious effects.

A Mantra is the generator of specific currents of sublime sound and its perceivable manifestation, a Yantra is a monogram  a spectrograph, of this sonic energy. In terms of their spiritual effects, Yantras are like schematic sketches of the contours or structures of divine energy fields. Use of Yantras as the object of sadhana enables focused use of specific currents of cosmic energy. Incidentally, the Sanskrit word for machines, instruments or technological devices is also "yantra". As we all know, advanced machines produce large-scale outcomes rapidly. 
The Vedic Yantras are also attributed in the scriptures, e.g. in the following shloka, as source of beneficial results in short time. These are like super machines having components as syllables, symbols and geometric figures that encode cosmic energy currents. 

Sarvasameva Siddhinam Yantrasadhanmuttamam | Dwaram Shastreshu Samproktam Tasmat Tat Parishilyataam || 

According to Sanskrit Grammar, the word "Yantra" is derived from the conjugation of the verb "yam" with suffix "tra" or with the verb "trana". Both ways its implied meaning is similar to that of Mantra and Tantra; viz, the protector and liberator (from sorrows and thralldoms) of the sincere devotee.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Upasana : Pujya Gurudev

The Occult Science of Upasana 

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

                     The attempts of the concerned savants and the forums for reformation are also superficial and appear more of intellectual exercises only. If at all, devout efforts of spiritual awakening and enlightenment of human psyche alone would be able to rescue the world from these dark dungeons of devilish urges. According to the Indian Vision of Spirituality, the human self is endowed with all the attributes of divinity; the source of immense knowledge, power and beatified bliss is hidden deep within the inner-self. Realization, awakening and expansion of this inner light is the ultimate key to resolve all the problems, howsoever daunting they might be, of life. Upasana is a scientific mode to accomplish this. It is suitable for all men and women in all circumstances of life. It gradually induces spiritual progress, which begins from within and also encompasses all dimensions (including the worldly spheres) of life. Whatever be ones faith and religion, emotionally dedicated endeavor of upasana leads to projection of the entirety of the soul in the upasya god or ideal of reverence. 
The process of inner awakening, enlightenment and spiritual transmutation begins with the devotees deep faith, emotional and harmonious consonance (of the devotees inner mind) with the upasya. Daily practice of devotion intensifies ones faith and accelerates the pace of progress. It fulfils the otherwise unnoticed void in ones life and bestows unique strength and sense of security and optimism; and gradually it awakens the otherwise dormant folds of the inner mind and eventually fulfills the eternal quest of the inner-self.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru.

Shiv Sharma

Willpower : Pujya Gurudev

Pujya Gurudev ShriRam Sharma;s Kripa

Youth Must Develop Willpower

(Akhand Jyoti,Sept-oct.2010)

Youth must have a strong willpower because only the possession this attribute justifies a meaningful definition of the youth. Willpower is spiritual energy. It is the miraculous divine power that sprouts forth in the personality from within. It has the potency to transform the life and work wonders. It is the superpower that converts the seemingly impossible into possible. If it is activated at young age, no dream can remain unrealized, no goal unattained. 

Many people, under a misconception, confuse willpower with obstinacy and inflexibility, which it is not at all. Will power is a fusion of the inner strength, steadfastness and concentration. When all the powers of the internal self coalesce and condense to the highest degree of intensity the personality begins to feel the pulsation of willpower. 

In the absence of willpower the young minds tend to wander hither and thither. They think a lot but are unable to do anything concrete. Their minds are full of dreams but the actual planning for the execution of those dreams remains beyond their capacity. A peculiar air of casualness, indecision, hesitation and confusion marks their attitude. Persons with weak willpower are not diligent in any work. They get disappointed and disheartened very soon. They accept defeat without putting up much of a fight. It is just not in their temperament to struggle till the last breath for a great cause and even efface their selves in this endeavor. That is why disappointments and failures are their frequent companions. 

Those who are undergoing such experiences should objectively analyze their situation.  Once they have correctly assessed themselves, efforts can be made to awaken and strengthen the willpower lying dormant within them. The first step in this direction is positive thinking. “I can do this; nothing is beyond me” and such other resolves should mark one’s attitude. A full faith in one’s capability should grow inside. Those who develop the strength to remain optimistic even in adverse situations will be rewarded with rapid growth of willpower. Those who are making efforts in this direction should not give importance to or entertain such thoughts as are detrimental to their positive line of thinking. Even if a doubt or confusion arises in their mind they should consciously discard it, as such negative impulses fritter away and weaken mental energy. 

The young persons who can put a check on this wastage of energy can very easily develop their willpower and utilize it in fruitful ventures. Two anecdotes in this connection from the lives of Anirudha Singh and Dr Bharti may be recounted. 

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Upasana -III; Pujya Gurudev

The Occult Science of Upasana 

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

These alone can satisfy the natural aspiration of the inner self for ultimate bliss and beatitude. Without realizing this origin, we remain driven by the cravings of the conscious mind and keep searching for happiness in the illusive mirage of worldly pleasures and egotist satiation. This is the reason why, despite the amazing advancement of science and technology and the plethora of comforts gained thereby, most of us are most often trapped in the feelings of insecurity, skepticism, fear, anger, jealousy, gloom and despair. Happiness remains a dream, a mirage for us. 

The materialistic societies and the societies deprived of religious faith and spiritual knowledge are experiencing an alarming rise in psychosomatic disorders and complexities because there is no place of devotional practices or any other mode of emotional soothing and caring for the inner self in peoples life. Upasana is certainly the simplest and most effective method for fulfilling this soul-hunger and hence inducing mental peace and lasting joy. Man remains dissatisfied and deluded mainly because of the ignorance of his own true identity. His domain of acquisition of knowledge is, in general, determined by the perceptions of the physical body, conscious mind and intellectual reasoning as per his education, training and experiences in the extrovert ambience of the family, society and schools. 

Learning from the encounters in the physical world also has its limitations. Neither of these, nor the gamut of high-tech accessories enable understanding of the origin and purpose of life; none has a reach in realization of the true "self" and the spiritual nature of life. For want of the inner light and spiritual strength one often fails in facing the adversities and struggles of life, or, on the other extreme, keeps running after more and more possessions and higher and higher worldly achievements. The end-result? Unbearable suffering and agony leading to a sort of insanity, anguish, ill health and untimely death or a stressful, desperate, discontented, superficial life in an illusive search out there for joy and peace which remain ever attainable. Dr. R.K. Mukherji draws a touching picture of the pathetic scenario of todays society in "Sequence of Civilization". 

He points out that our single-tracked materialistic thinking in the scientific, socioeconomic and other fields of civilization and progress has not only neglected but also injured and deformed our spiritual nature and thus ruined all the possibilities of inner peace. In this blind race of progress, the developed nations are exploiting the poor ones and are engaged in a devastating game of grabbing global power, thus endangering the future of the world. The entire human society is suffering as a consequence, in the form of ever-new tensions and psychosomatic ailments without a ray of hope. He calls this age of discontent, suffering and insanity as a simultaneous outcome of the ascent of modern civilization. 

The attempts of the concerned savants and the forums for reformation are also superficial and appear more of intellectual exercises only. If at all, devout efforts of spiritual awakening and enlightenment of human psyche alone would be able to rescue the world from these dark dungeons of devilish urges. According to the Indian Vision of Spirituality, the human self is endowed with all the attributes of divinity; the source of immense knowledge, power and beatified bliss is hidden deep within the inner-self. Realization, awakening and expansion of this inner light is the ultimate key to resolve all the problems, howsoever daunting they might be, of life. Upasana is a scientific mode to accomplish this. It is suitable for all men and women in all circumstances of life. It gradually induces spiritual progress, which begins from within and also encompasses all dimensions (including the worldly spheres) of life. Whatever be ones faith and religion, emotionally dedicated endeavor of upasana leads to projection of the entirety of the soul in the upasya god or ideal of reverence. 

The process of inner awakening, enlightenment and spiritual transmutation begins with the devotees deep faith, emotional and harmonious consonance (of the devotees inner mind) with the upasya. Daily practice of devotion intensifies ones faith and accelerates the pace of progress. It fulfils the otherwise unnoticed void in ones life and bestows unique strength and sense of security and optimism; and gradually it awakens the otherwise dormant folds of the inner mind and eventually fulfills the eternal quest of the inner-self.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Upasana -II ; Pujya Gurudev

The Occult Science of Upasana 

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

                             The principles of implicit autosuggestion and corresponding emotional conjunction in terms of modern psychology also reflect this fact. These theories rely on the consideration that the unconscious mind tries to contact the soul by some sublime process. The subtle aspirations of the deepest core of the inner mind shape ones ideals for which one has natural reverence. Engrossment of the inner mind in this sublime object (may be, by concentrating the mind on the Deitys physical manifestation or image) during meditation sets up an active linkage between the two. 

The above process at the level of the inner mind could be understood by the example of similar experiences at the level of the conscious mind. The engrossment of our conscious mind in reading a book of our liking or listening to our favorite music is a familiar example of this sort. While watching a sports event of their choice, the viewers mood and excitement are driven by that of the game. More so, look at the instantaneous emotional unification of a viewer with that of his preferred character while watching a movie.! But these kinds of emotional linkages, being at the level of the conscious mind are temporary and vary with the agility of the latter. It is only by long term practice and awakened inner force that the unconscious mind overcomes the conscious and gets engrossed in deep meditation; but once it does, the impressions of its inner emotional connections with the focus of meditation are far more intense and lasting. 

The supramental attainments through yoga-meditation are consequences of these kinds of sublime effects. The highest stage of this engrossment is realized in the state of trance in upasana when the devotees individual identity unifies with its upasya; the devotee and the deity become one. Meera Bais devotion to Lord Krishna stands as an immortal example of complete immersion of devotees self into the supreme consciousness. Thuleson has cited the example of Saint Katherine in "Psychology of Religion" which illustrates that intensity of this effect could be experienced in its manifestation in the physical body as well. In specific moments of her devotional state of semi-unconsciousness, Saint Katherine used to feel the same injuries and pains in her body as Jesus Christ might have at the time of his crucification. 
On several occasions, the doctors on duty had found that the pains experienced in her body in this state were indeed real. In view of its sound foundation in terms of the authentically established positive psychological effects, upasana is affirmed to be a scientific process of mental and emotional healing and refinement and transformation of personality. 

The effects normally experienced in the initial stages of upasana, include awakening of the devotees self-confidence and courage to boldly and wisely face the challenges of human life. With the depth of the devotees faith and sincerity, it gradually awakens virtuous faculties and talents hidden in his inner mind and eventually leads to transmutation of his ego into the limitless Divine Self. Amongst the founders of modern psychology, Carl G. Jung had strongly advocated incorporation of devotional practices as part of psychological healing and personality development. He also opined that the positive effects of devotional practices in mental healing far outweigh what even all the psychotherapists and psychiatrists of the world together might provide. His views indeed prove insightful if we analyze the real nature of human life. A human being is not just a psychosomatic system of the mind and the body. Neither are the dimensions of human life confined only to the individual self, family, society, nation or the visible world. Its emotional and spiritual existence is most consequential and preeminent.

Emotional depth and spirituality are the distinct keys to the fulfillment of the quest for peace and joy in human life. 
These alone can satisfy the natural aspiration of the inner self for ultimate bliss and beatitude. Without realizing this origin, we remain driven by the cravings of the conscious mind and keep searching for happiness in the illusive mirage of worldly pleasures and egotist satiation. This is the reason why, despite the amazing advancement of science and technology and the plethora of comforts gained thereby, most of us are most often trapped in the feelings of insecurity, skepticism, fear, anger, jealousy, gloom and despair. Happiness remains a dream, a mirage for us. 

The materialistic societies and the societies deprived of religious faith and spiritual knowledge are experiencing an alarming rise in psychosomatic disorders and complexities because there is no place of devotional practices or any other mode of emotional soothing and caring for the inner self in peoples life. Upasana is certainly the simplest and most effective method for fulfilling this soul-hunger and hence inducing mental peace and lasting joy. Man remains dissatisfied and deluded mainly because of the ignorance of his own true identity. His domain of acquisition of knowledge is, in general, determined by the perceptions of the physical body, conscious mind and intellectual reasoning as per his education, training and experiences in the extrovert ambience of the family, society and schools. 

Learning from the encounters in the physical world also has its limitations. Neither of these, nor the gamut of high-tech accessories enable understanding of the origin and purpose of life; none has a reach in realization of the true "self" and the spiritual nature of life. For want of the inner light and spiritual strength one often fails in facing the adversities and struggles of life, or, on the other extreme, keeps running after more and more possessions and higher and higher worldly achievements. The end-result? Unbearable suffering and agony leading to a sort of insanity, anguish, ill health and untimely death or a stressful, desperate, discontented, superficial life in an illusive search out there for joy and peace which remain ever attainable. Dr. R.K. Mukherji draws a touching picture of the pathetic scenario of todays society in "Sequence of Civilization". 

He points out that our single-tracked materialistic thinking in the scientific, socioeconomic and other fields of civilization and progress has not only neglected but also injured and deformed our spiritual nature and thus ruined all the possibilities of inner peace. In this blind race of progress, the developed nations are exploiting the poor ones and are engaged in a devastating game of grabbing global power, thus endangering the future of the world. The entire human society is suffering as a consequence, in the form of ever-new tensions and psychosomatic ailments without a ray of hope. He calls this age of discontent, suffering and insanity as a simultaneous outcome of the ascent of modern civilization. 

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Upasana : Pujya Gurudev

The Occult Science of Upasana 

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Upasana (practice of divine worship and devotion) is of paramount importance for spiritual refinement and elevation. Depending upon ones intrinsic faith, conviction, mental make up and religious training his/her mode of upasana might vary. It begins with a simple practice of worshiping and praying to the Almighty. With the piety and depth of emotions and surrender of the devotee to the Deity of worship, upasana could gradually become a sublime source of living linkage between the upasaka (worshiper, devotee) and the upasya (the divine object of reverence or worship, God). These majestic effects are not just mythological, occult or mysterious magic; rather, these are natural outcome of the scientifically affirmed immense potentials of upasana in relation to human psychology, intrinsic tendencies and the inner mind. Noted medical expert and healer Dr. Henry Lindlehar mentions in his book "Practice of Natural Therapeutic" that the mental and emotional state of a person has significant impact on his health. One can improve his physical and mental health by making a mental and emotional connection with the cosmic consciousness force, or with the evolved consciousness of angelic beings or elevated souls. 

He further explains that deep meditation on any conscious-object activates (sets) the linkage on ones mind with it, as of a radio or TV set with the selected broadcasting center or channel. Whether we are awakened or dreaming in a state of sleep, our mind constantly receives good or bad thought-waves or consciousness-signals according to what it is tuned for at that moment. During upasana, we concentrate on divinity, divine grace of God, so our conscious and unconscious minds also get purified and naturally attuned to corresponding vibrations; the elevated flow of our thoughts and sentiments orients accordingly and also our inner mind receives and registers the sublime impressions. 
The intensity and continuity of these enlightened effects depends upon that of our intrinsic faith and engrossment in upasana. Whatever be our mental or spiritual level at present, our regularity and sincerity in this devotional practice certainly results in gradual progress and also awakens our hidden virtues, thereby cleansing of our psyche of negativities.

The much applauded book "Mental Radio" by U. Sinclair highlights some higher levels and expanded potentials of deep mental engrossment. It is illustrated therein by examples that a person can send his thoughts not only by the physical modes of communication; he can also do so by invisible, subtle means e.g. telepathy. Great yogis and siddhas attain this supernatural faculty and can send their thoughts in the cosmic expansion through the sublime realms of consciousness; deserving souls (people whose minds are sensitive and attuned to the vibrations of those realms) receive those subtle vibrations and inspirations. Each one of us has this capacity to grasp such sublime vibrations; we only need to condition our agile mind and awaken its otherwise dormant powers. Upasana is a simple, safe and sure means for this purpose.

 What kind of upasya one would select naturally depends upon his intrinsic tendencies and psychological makeup. Upasana transforms the devotees personality as per the nature and qualities of upasya. This is a natural psychological effect, as also pointed out in the "Yogasutra" what becomes of one depends upon what he thinks and does (ones thoughts and deeds make him what he is). The Gita (Ch. 17, Shloka 3) elaborates this fact more elegantly :-

 “ Satvanurupa Sarvasya shraddha Bhavati Bharata | Shraddhamayoayam Purusho Yo Yachchhadra Sa Eva Sa |”

| One is attracted towards the characters or objects according to his own values and inner inclinations. This is what accounts for his compatibility with the colleagues, his selection of friends and ideals in life. As the above shloka points out, ones devotion to the object of natural reverence depends upon his inner sentiments and nature. The deeper this Shraddha (intrinsic reverence and faith) is, the more intense and effective will be the influence of devotion in ones psychological transformation. That is what is implied by " Yo Yachchhadra Sa Eva Sa" (one is what ones Shraddha is). 
          Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma        

Shakti Power : Pujya Gurudev

The Secret of Shakti Power 

(Akhand Jyoti,Sept.-Oct.2005)

Divine Shakti represents the executive dynamism of the Supreme Spirit and is synonymous with power, energy, strength, knowledge, plenitude, etc. The grace of Shakti showers boons of strength, peace, wisdom and prosperity whereas its absence leads to destitution, hopelessness, pain and misery. Those aspiring to become devotees of Shakti will have to single-mindedly devote themselves to panchopchar pujan (five-fold worship) of Mahashakti, which manifest as 
(1) physical power, 
(2) mental power, 
(3) emotional power, 
(4) financial power and 
(5) spiritual power. The lack or extravagant use of these powers compels a person to live a miserable life. On the other hand, earning and righteous use of these powers leads to happy and healthy life. How can we access the grace of Shakti? This mystery is hidden in the nine words of Gayatri-Mahamantra: 
(1) Tat  It is the symbol of God, the Supreme Transcendent Being; sadhak can realize It through faith and devotion. 
(2) Savituh - Savita is the fountainhead of Shakti; we can acquire Its grace through single-pointed sadhana 
(3) Varenyam  The Most Exalted. 
(4) Bhargo  Effulgent like Sun, the destroyer of sins; we should resolve not to commit sins. (5) Devasya  This is a symbol of Divinity; we should cultivate divine virtues within ourselves. (6) Dhimahi  The capability of overpowering vices and imbibing virtues. 
(7) Dhiyo  Illumined intelligence; augments wisdom, thoughtfulness, decision-making ability, etc. 
(8) Yonah - This is a symbol of divine blessings; we should learn to properly use them. 
(9) Prachodayat  Prayer for Divine Grace; may Mother Gayatri inspire us to adopt righteous living. On the auspicious occasion of Ashvin Navaratri let us try to understand this mystery behind the worship of Shakti.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma