programmes for julyyogashram.in/magazines/jul2011.pdf · th kundalini beeja mantra punashchetana...
TRANSCRIPT
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Special News for Dear Dhyanabandhus,
“YOGI VARENYA SRI DEVBABA” (Kannada)
Biography of Poojya Guruji, written by Dhyana Bandhu Sri. V. Ramdas – Hosabettu, will
be released shortly. Those who want to book copies may please contact Ashram. Programs are liable to change. Readers are requested to contact the office and
ascertain exact dates before coming.
2nd Mrtutyunjaya Homa and whole night meditation
3rd Satchintana (Udupi & Karkala Satsang)
4th – 12th Brahma Vidya Camp (for gents)
9th & 24th Kriya Yoga Punashchetana
15th Gurupoornima
17th Kundalini Beeja Mantra Punashchetana
Programmes for July – 2011
3rd
– 6th
‘Premadhara’ – Silence meditation with Poojya Guruji
From 9.30 am to 4.00 pm with liquid food at noon and
light refreshment after meditation.
6th Mruthyunjaya Homa followed by whole night meditation
with Poojya Guruji
7th Satchintana
13th & 28th Kriya Yoga Punashchetana
21st Kundalini Beeja Mantra Punashchetana
15th & 22nd Public Meet
Programmes for August – 2011
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Vol : XI Issue: IX July - 2011
SHRI SHAKTIDARSHAN
A Magazine dedicated to Yoga and Meditation
Honorary Editor Sri B. Devadas Rao Yogacharya
Editor
Sri. Srinivasa Bhargav M.K.
Editorial Advisory Board
Dr. Meera R. Kamath
Smt. Shashikala Nayak
Sri Mohandas Bhat J
Smt. Anitha Kishore
Sri Angelo Dias
Sri. Anand M.K.
Dr. Shashidhar H.S.
Subscription Rates:
Domestic
Single copy : Rs. 10 Yearly : Rs. 120 Poshak : Rs. 1000 (10 years)
International Yearly : USD 30$
Sri Shakti Darshan Yogashram
Magazine Section, Elathur – Post,
Kinnigoli, D.K. Karnataka
PH: 0824 – 2295100 / 2297700
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.yogashram.in
Printed by Sri Arvind published by Sri Srinivasa Bhargav M.K. on behalf of Sri Shaktidarshana Yogashram (R) & Printed at Brindavan Printers & Publishers Pvt. Ltd No. 39/2-1 Kalyani Garden, B.S.K 1st Stage, Bangalore - 560050 and published at Sri Shaktidarshana Yogashram (R) Yelathur, Kinnigoli - 574 150, D.K.Dist.
Editor: Srinivasa Bhargav M.K.
INDEX Switzerland Visit
Question & Answers
Goshala
The Power Of Agnihotra
Knowledge Hats
High Blood Pressure
Its all For the Best
Desi Cows
Ajji’s Sandeshas
Conversation with
Ramana Marshi
Women in Spirituality:
Avvaiyar
Poem Korner
The Mystical Maya
Programmes for the month
of April & Pujya Guruji’s
Satsang vists
The Ashram / Editorial Board does not accept any responsibility for the views
expressed in the articles / contributions published in this Magazine.
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Dear Dhayanabandhus,
II II Akhand mandla karam, vyaptam yena characharam
tat padam darshitam yena, tasmai shri gurave namah II II
I bow to that Shri Guru who pervades the whole universe constituting of
beings moving and unmoving and by whom is shown the state of Tat
(Supreme Brahman)
II II Dhyana mulam gurur murtih, puja mulam gurur padam
mantra mulam gurur vakyam, moksha mulam gurur kripa II II
The Guru's Form is the root of meditation
The Guru's Feet are the root of worsh
The Guru's Word is the root of mantra
On 15th of this month we celebrate Guru Poornima in our Ashram. Guru poornima is sacred for many reasons. This day, the seeker who suffers from identification with the false objective world is initiated into the reality of the ‘Unseen Motivator’ within him. This day, those who have no urge to tread the spiritual path are inspired to seek the bliss which that path will confer; and aspirants are helped to achieve the consciousness of the One; which is known by many names and though many forms, in various languages and land. With the rise of sun, the world is bathed in light and heat. So too, the oncoming of Guru Poornima, the human heart is bathed in peace and security. Guru poornima is not just one day in the year, marked out in the calendar. It is all days when the mind of man becomes full of pleasant wholeness, fully illumined with the light from the moon.The Guru's Grace is the root of the real significance of Guru poornima does not consist in worshipping the guru (preceptor) with some offerings, but in getting rid of the darkness of ignorance. "Poornima" refers to the full moon, . Guru poornima signifies the elimination of all darkness and evil from the mind. The true Guru is in our heart. Purify the heart to let the Divinity dwell in it. Guru poornima is an occasion for cleaning the mind to make it absolutely pure.iberation. On this holi occasion let all of us seek our Guruji’s blessing
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" "Gurur - Brahma
Gurur - Vishnuh
Guru -devo Maheswarah
Gurur - sakshat Param Brahma
Tasmai Sri Gurave namah” ”
A Salutation to All the Masters
5
From the
Words of
Pujya
Guruji’s
Saint Sri Chinmoy
wrote me a letter
in 2001. Inner
communication was
going on with him
from many years.
This co-ordination came to light
in 2001. But we had not met face to
face. I welcomed his suggestions
written in his letter and followed
accordingly. After few months, another
letter from him was
received from
America. A cheque
for $ 500 was
enclosed with it. He
had mentioned that he
had visited the
Ashram astrally. It
was surprising. Then
it was understood that
with him it was a
relation of love. He
was a great Yogi. He
was teaching
meditation to the
former American
President Mr.Bill Clinton. He was
conducting Satsangs every Friday at
U.N.O. for its officials. He had not
visited India for the past 10 years. It
was our good fortune that he had shown
so much of interest in such a small
Ashram. After accepting his donation as
‘Prasad’, he was sent a reply. Further
too, donation was
again received
from him for
Ashram’s
activities. The
strengthening of our
inner relation was continuous. It was
known from him what was reason for
this relationship and why? We were
surprised very much when he informed
about ‘Saptarshi Mandala’ (Ursa Majar;
Great Bear – Place from
where divine guidance is
got from the spiritual
Masters). The secrets of
life and connections with
him from past many lives
came as a flash. You
would go to Switzerland
one day. My disciples
themselves would help
you. You must go,
because after Himalayas,
Switzerland is a very
special place for
meditation. I had
forgotten his words. But I
came to know how true was his words
when I started my Switzerland trip. He
has left his mortal body. But the feeling
of union of inner selves was vibrating
inside me.
ON THE PATH OF
MEDITATION………………..SWITZERLAND
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He insisted us to visit them.
Responding to lovable invitation from
them, we accepted for a 20 day trip and
were happy to receive the couple’s
hospitality. My wife also accompanied
me. We were taken around entire
Switzerland and Germany in the north
and Austria in the east to meet the
members of Satsangs. Our meditation
and Satsangs went on very well. Italy is
in the south and France in the west,
which means Switzerland is located at
the centre of Europe.
The Alps mountain ranges in
Switzerland have little resemblance to
the Himalayan mountain ranges. It does
not exceed 21,000 feet, spreads around
2000 sq.k.ms wide. Switzerland lies
amidst this mountain. Since these are
snow covered mountains, the
temperature here is always cool and
chilly. In summer travelers from all
over the world come here to enjoy the
beauty of the place. The snow covered
peaks of Alps mountains around looks
charming like a coronation. There are
several rivers flowing from the
mountains. There are also lakes around.
All waters are very clean. The people
here are very disciplined, hard working.
They earn handsomely. They enjoy the
holidays by singing and dancing. Drunk
driving, drunkards on the streets,
We were invited by his disciple Sri Bhajan Singh
The Alph Mountain Ranges
7
indiscipline or misbehavior are not seen
anywhere. Everything they do, they do
it preserving discipline. No dirt or
garbage could be seen in rivers or lakes.
No water is diverted to the rivers. Lot
of importance is given for cleanliness.
We can see their discipline in trains,
busses, aircrafts and other modes of
transports. We did not see even a piece
of plastic waste, dirt or dust in any city
we travelled. There are no empty
ground left. They grow grass
everywhere. Because of this, the wind
does not carry dust. We have to learn
from them the way of keeping the
environment clean.
It is a big city. A vast lake passes
through the centre of the city. The city
has spread across the lake. This can be
seen in the above photograph. It has a
very big Railway station and is a
Junction. It is connected by air and train
to all parts of the world. Other big cities
are Geneva, Sion, Bern, Germat,
Salsberg and others. Geneva is a very
old city. It is world’s most renowned
centre for manufacture of wrist
watches. It is a beautiful city. The Alps
mountains can be seen till this city.
There are many electrical rope way
routes in Alps mountain. This is a mode
transport in which people travel from
mountain to mountain. We stayed in
Grindelwald, a small village for 4 days
along with Sri Bhajan Singh and
family. Smt.Pavani, with the help of
her friends had arranged a small,
beautiful house on rent. On these days I
was getting up at 4.00 am and
practicing Pranayama and Kriya Yoga.
After a light breakfast we used to walk
towards the mountain for 4 hours. We
were visiting each day different
places. After the walk, were doing
Pranayama while enjoying the beauty
of the creation. After meditation for an
hour and later after completing
Yoganidra, we would return home in
the afternoon for lunch. By the time
we collectively prepare the food it
would be 3.00 pm. Then it was two
hours of rest for all of us. After
drinking a cup of tea, our walk would
be till 8.00 in the night amidst the
beauty of nature. There would be good
sunshine. But we would not feel it
sultry. It was necessary for us to wear
woolen dresses only during mornings,
not in evenings. After returning home,
we would finish our light food and
enjoy the beauty of sunset. The sunset
would be at 10.00 pm. Due to day long
hard work, getting sleep was fast. But
Sri Bhajan would watch news on T.V.
go to bed at 11.00 pm.
Zurich was the city where we stayed in.
stayed.
8
The weather here is lovely. This can be
compared to our Kashmir. But in
Kashmir there is no cleanliness and
discipline. Atmosphere is full of
commotion. Because of this there is no
peace of mind. Switzerland is one of
the richest countries in the world. The
black money from all over the world is
deposited in Swiss Banks. That means
all the wealth is accumulated here.
Switzerland stands first in maintaining
cleanliness in the world.
The transport system is very good. All
highways are constructed with four
lanes. There are no honking of horns.
The pedestrians are given first
preference. But here the pedestrians
are also rare. All villages have well
equipped, beautiful Volvo busses.
Issue of bus tickets, boarding and
alighting systems are automated. The
seating arrangements are comparable
to that of an aircraft seat arrangement.
Busses are run always with partial
capacity. Normally busses ply empty.
A special electrical train is used for
climbing mountains which is not found
in our country. Though the train looks
like any other train, in between two
rails, there is a special rail with teeth.
This teeth come into contact with the
wheel which is fitted in the centre of
the train. Under any circumstance, the
train does not jerk backwards, because
of this. This works like a ‘free wheel’
which is fitted to the rear wheel of a
bicycle. The other trains resemble our
metro trains in Bangalore, Delhi and
Kolkota. During holidays we can see
youths descending from the mountains
with parachutes. From the house we
stayed in Grindelwald, each day we
could see hundreds of parachutes like
this.
During our tour we met many of the
disciples of Saint Sri Chinmoy. I met
Sri Kailas who leads the group of
disciples and administrator in Europe.
He informed that along with his friends,
9
he would visit our Ashram in
November. Sri Sathyaki of Vienna in
Austria along with his friends visited
and participated in Satsang. He has
adopted a cow. At that time, I
remembered the words of Saint Sri
Chinmoy who wrote me a letter in 2001
as follows.
“My dearest Devadas Yogacharya, my
soul has a very deep connection with
your soul. That is why we love each
other wholeheartedly and aspire
breathlessly for the same lofty goal.
Both of us are humbly serving our Lord
Supreme with our prayers and
meditations for the perfect perfection of
a peace-blossomed world. My heart
unreservedly feels and my soul
unmistakably knows that your devotion
flooded prayers and meditations are
inundating the Mother Earth and all her
children with the boundless blessings of
peace, love and light”.
Let the above words of the Saint, may
light up your hearts on this
auspicious day of Gurupoornima.
So is the wish of your Guruji.
It struck me then that our mind is like a Goshala. It too is constantly filled with
thoughts which require regular cleansing to have a clear and pure mind – so
essential for meditation. Even if we do have to have thoughts we need to cultivate
pure and sacred thoughts because what we think today will manifest tomorrow. So
just like the Go Maya and Go Mutra we can make productive use of our thoughts.
At times the dried dung (like old thoughts, ideas and samskaras) are very hard to
remove. They require constant scrubbing and also an additional force of water to
get rid off. Similarly in addition to our own effort, we require the grace of Guru to
get rid of these age old fixed ideas and thoughts which have been acquired during
this and many other life times.
Constant company of Cows bestows a lot of love and peace and the same will be
experienced if we have a similar connection with our soul. So also watching the
dedication and devotion of other sincere seekers is always inspiring.
It is experienced that there is always a helping hand extended towards us on
our spiritual journey if our effort and wish is sincere – God comes in various forms
like our Guruji to help us. Thus it has been a truly learning experience at the
‘Goshala’.
A Seeker
Jai Guru Dev
GOSHALA – An Experience of Life (Contd)
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Q (1) : We two are employed. We
are meditating for a while for the last
five years. I am 40. I want to leave my
job and devote full time for
meditation. But I am afraid if I am
unable to meditate properly later. At
home, my husband says it is my
choice. We are only two at home. We
are worried that we are childless.
Seeking your advice for future life.
A (2) : The Creator has given you
everything. Think what
you have given to the
creation. Do not think
about the past. It is
futile to think so.
Remember, it is only an
experience. You spend
only eight hours in the
job. Try to be cordial
with your colleagues at
your work place. In
spite of all adversities,
try to be patient and
cordial, when you are
dealing with the public.
If you are able to spend eight hours in
your office happily then your job itself
will be your life with contentment. Deal
with everyone with love. Living with
love, peace and contentment are the
foundation for meditation. Further, your
life itself will be a meditation. Do not
worry for having no children. Try to
love all the children in the world and feel
as though they are your own children. A
child can be adopted if required. This can
bring solace to your deficiency.
For we Indians, spirituality is not a
separate way of life. Living with truth
and righteousness itself is spirituality.
Reading scriptures, performing poojas
are only meant for cleansing of the mind.
Self realization cannot be got from this.
You need not leave your job for doing
meditation. It is not necessary to be
away from home and family. Be truthful
and righteous in every
aspect wherever you are.
Lead a contented life.
This is the beginning of
meditation.
It may not be possible
for you to meditate at
home if you are not
cordial with your
colleagues at work place.
After leaving the job,
sitting at home with full
of thoughts, would be a
waste of life. Before
quitting the job, consult with your Guru
regarding your state of mind. It is better
to take any decision only after that.
Q (2) : When sitting for meditation
at home, which place I should select?
Facing which direction? Which is the
best time for meditation? Please
explain.
Question & Answers
11
A (2) : For a real meditator direction or
time is not essential. Sit in a place where
you feel good. But if you are a beginner,
it is good to meditate in the room which
is in the north east corner of the house.
It is better to sit facing north or east. It
is possible to get the magnetic vibrations
of the earth in these directions.
Remember, let there be good circulation
of air in the room. Ensure that the place
is free from dust, smoke or foul smell
which pollute the environment. It is
good if there is sun light entering the
room. If possible perform ‘agnihotra’
before meditation. If not, light a herbal
incense stick and then meditate. If you
meditate in that room for six months,
then the vibrations in the environment
will improve on its own.
There is no particular time meant for
meditation. It is good to meditate when
light food is consumed or with empty
stomach. Meditation can be done at any
time in 24 hours. Any time is good. But
it is found with experience that (Brahmi
Muhurtha) 1 ½ hours before sun rise
and at the time of sun rise and sun set
are very favourable time for meditation.
Q (3) : While meditating it is
difficult to concentrate on the breath.
How to solve this?
A (3) : As mentioned in Rigveda,
listen to the sound ‘SO’ while inhaling.
Observe and feel the sound ‘HUM’ while
exhaling. If listening continues along
with the breath and observing in
between the eye brows, then
concentration can be got for more time.
The sound SOHUM is a mantra. Surely
this mantra helps in concentration.
SOHUM means ‘I am that’. All other
things are temporary and untrue. If
SOHUM is mentally chanted with total
devotion and love with the knowledge of
the only truth that ‘I reside inside’, then
the flow of love from heart can be felt.
The thoughts are distanced. It helps in
deep meditation. If you feel that the
thoughts still persist, while observing as
mentioned above, chant SOHUM with a
low sound. Gradually let the mantra
chanting continue mentally. Continue
this for few days. Thoughts will be
reduced. The power of mantra will
increase. Meditation will happen when
no thoughts are there. Do not expect
that meditation should happen today
itself. Hope that a day will come when
you can surely meditate. That hope itself
will take you deep into meditation.
Meditation always happens on its own. If
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you want to meditate, it may not be
possible. We can only try to reduce our
thoughts. But to meditate without
thoughts is God’s wish. Those who live
without desires, get the meditative state
automatically. Therefore give attention
towards your desires. Make a list of
your desires. Use your intellect and
reject unnecessary desires . Consult your
Guru, senior sadhaks or saints regarding
your desires which you feel you cannot
control. If you lead your further life
accordingly, then there will be a
progress in your meditation. Then
meditation may happen.
Q (4) : Is it possible for a man to be
invisible? Please give your opinion.
A (4) : It is possible for a man to be
invisible. This is a siddhi (comes of its
own accord).
This siddhi can
be achieved
from Kriya
Yoga. Recently
a French
scientist has
proved its
possibility.
The
experiments have shown that man can
become invisible. This a simple theory. If
water is boiled it becomes vapour and
disappears into the atmosphere. If the
same steam
is made to
become
cool , that
can be seen
as water. If
the
magnetic
energy in a
man is elevated, he will start becoming
lighter. If the magnetic energy crosses a
particular limit, he becomes invisible on
his own. It is not possible to find out his
movements. But those movements can be
photographed with a Kirlion camera. His
body can be seen vaguely like a cloud.
But no figures can be seen with our
naked eyes. The meditators with
sensitive perception can vaguely see this.
The lives in the fourth dimension are in
this invisible form. That means in the
coming era it may be possible for all of
us to live on this earth invisibly. Those
who practice Kriya Yoga may be able to
get knowledge about this art of
invisibility. If practiced continuously
from 3 to 5 years and Guru’s blessings
and God’s wish a sadhak can be able to
attain this art. That is why, through
Kriya Yoga there may be a possibility to
cross the hurdles of coming 2012.
13
Spiritual research showing the mechanism behind Agnihotra All of the events that happen on Earth are because the basic building blocks of creation are utilised. These basic building blocks are the five Absolute Cosmic Elements. It is only through one or more of these elements, that any event in the Universe is possible. The Absolute Cosmic element that is predominant in the case of a nuclear device being detonated is the Absolute Fire Element (Tej Tattva).
When a nuclear device is detonated, it gives rise to raja-tama predominant vibrations of the Absolute Cosmic Fire element. Discordant subtle sounds accompany these frequencies. These subtle sounds have a subtle harmful effect on the mind and intellect of the people in the vicinity of the nuclear attack. It can range from depression, to negative thoughts, to fogging up of the intellect. When the ritual of Agnihotra is performed, it gives rise to sattva predominant vibrations of the Absolute Cosmic Fire element. The fire created from Agnihotra
THE POWER OF AGNIHOTRA (Contd)
14
disintegrates the raja-tama particles and therefore purifies the environment at a spiritual level. It also creates a subtle protective sheath around the person performing the ritual. This sheath is highly sensitive to anything related to the Absolute Cosmic Fire element and from the subtle dimension this sheath looks reddish. The raja-tama predominant Absolute Cosmic Fire particles (emanating from a nuclear device detonating) strike in a very harsh and callous manner. The protective sheath intuitively knows in advance when they are coming near it and as a reflex action it sends the Absolute Cosmic Fire frequencies from within it towards the raja-tama predominant particles with tremendous force. This destroys the raja-tama predominant Absolute Cosmic Fire particles which give rise to the sound frequencies. As a result, the destructive Absolute Cosmic Fire from the detonated nuclear device loses its power. What decides the effectiveness of the Agnihotra ritual during a nuclear holocaust? It is important to keep in mind that the protection levels that are being discussed are in a nuclear holocaust environment. Therefore, the benefit that the ritual of Agnihotra can provide, is severely restricted compared to a peace-time scenario. As per spiritual level and attitude of the person When a person performs Agnihotra, there are a few factors that come into play, that define the efficacy of the ritual in neutralising the effect of nuclear radiation . The table below shows the effect on a person (depending on his spiritual level and spiritual attitude or state) while performing the ritual of Agnihotra.
Spiritual Level
Aspect 20% 50% 60%
Attitude of performing Doing it as
ritualistic
worship as
just an act
Doing it with
spiritual
emotion and
devotion
Doing it with
surrender
Area of the protective sheath in feet 1-2 10 30
Purification of the environment in % .75 2 4
Duration of the effect 1 hour 2 hours 8 hours
a. Spiritual level: The spiritual level of a person is the most important aspect.
15
In the case of a nuclear bomb explosion, in practical terms, only a person above the 50% spiritual level is able to access any substantial protection by performing the ritual of Agnihotra. The benefit reduces as the spiritual level of the person performing the ritual decreases. A person of average spiritual level (20-30%) will gain negligible protection benefit from performing the ritual Agnihotra.
As the spiritual level becomes more, the need for performing the ritual becomes less as the spiritual level becomes the key criteria for protection of the person.
In the case of Saints they would get a thought to move away from the area before the bomb explodes.
b. Importance of spiritual practice: The only way to increase one’s spiritual level is by doing spiritual practice that adheres to the six basic principles of spiritual practice. By undertaking the right type of spiritual practice, it is possible for a person to make rapid growth in one lifetime.
Person performing versus the person observing the ritual: The person performing the ritual gets more benefit from the ritual as opposed to a person observing the ritual. The ritual is mainly for an individual’s protection. However, if the person observing the ritual does so with the attitude that he himself is performing the ritual with the appropriate level of spiritual emotion, then he too will gain the same benefit and protection. Role of spiritual practice and spiritual level in protection against a nuclear attack The major events that happen in a person’s life are primarily due to their destiny as per the law of karma. The best way to overcome adverse destiny (which is a spiritual problem) is by doing spiritual practice. By doing appropriate levels of spiritual practice, one can overcome destiny. For example, of one has medium destiny, then only an intense amount of spiritual practice (of around 10-12 hours a day) only can overcome it. If one however has severe destiny, only the grace of a Saint can help in overcoming the destiny. Even if one, as per their destiny, has to die in the coming times then, due to their spiritual practice at least a negative impression of fear is not created in the seeker's mind as they go to the afterlife. For a person not doing any form of spiritual practice, suffering and then dying after a weapon of mass destruction is detonated, scars their sub-conscious mind with impressions of fear which may sometimes take lifetimes to overcome.
Source: Spiritual Science Research Foundation
16
KNOWLEDGE HATS
Once a sparrow made her nest in a corn-field. Soon she laid eggs in it. After a few
days small babies hatched out of them.
One day the baby-sparrows overheard the farmer say, "I will call my neighbors to
reap this field."
The baby-sparrows got alarmed to hear this and told their mother about it.
"Don't worry," said the mother sparrow.
Some days later, the farmer came again and said, I will call my relatives to reap
this field." The baby-sparrows got frightened again.
"Fear not," said their mother.
But the next day the farmer came there with his little son and said, "I will reap
this field tomorrow."
"Now is the time to go. When a man says he will do the work himself, he will
certainly do it," said the mother-sparrow and went away with her babies.
MORAL : Don't fear hollow threats.
Title: The sparrow in the corn field
Title: The Dog and the Shadow
One day a dog had managed to get a hold of a piece of meat and was carrying it
home in his mouth to eat it in peace.
On his way home, he had to cross a board that was lying across a running river.
As he crossed, he looked down and saw his own shadow reflected in the water
beneath him.
Seeing his own shadow, he thought this was another dog who had another piece
of meat, he made up his mind that he wanted to have that too!
So he jumped at the shadow in the water, but as he opened his mouth the piece
of meat he was carrying fell out, dropped into the water and was gone. The dog
went home with nothing.
MORAL: It is not wise to be greedy. Be satisfied and thankful for what you
have, rather than being greedy trying to accumulate more than you really
require.
17
It is the most
troublesome
disease in this
era. It is also
termed as
silent killer as
sometimes it does not present any
symptoms but eventually effects heart
and may cause heart attack. This
modern era is full of stress and life is so
fast that there is no time to take care of
our health. This stressed up mind may
also lead to increase of adrenaline in
blood stream that eventually leads to
rise in blood pressure. Blood pressure is
defined as that force which blood exerts
on the arterial wall during its normal
flow through them. It is essential for
carrying out the normal activities when
it is maintained at the normal level.
The pressure is measures as the ratio
by systolic by diastolic. Normal value
of blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg.
But when it increases this value it is
called as hypertension. When the
diastolic pressure is between 80 to 95
mm Hg then it is considered as mildly
hypertensive. Above 95 mm hg is
considered as hypertensive. Similarly
systolic pressure between 140 to 160
mm hg is considered as the mild
hypertensive. Above it is considered as
hypertensive.
Causes
Following are the reasons by
which hypertension is caused
* Stress
* Consuming high amount
of sodium
* Hormonal changes
* Obesity
* Narrowing of blood
vessels by deposition of
plaque
Home Remedies
* Consuming garlic is very
effective in decreasing the
hypertension as it prevents
thrombosis and deposition of
plaque in the arteries.
* Drinking of lime water 4
to 5 times a day helps in
preventing hypertension.
* Amla (Indian goose
berry) is very effective in
treating the high blood pressure.
* Tarbooz (watermelon) is another
good remedy for avoiding high blood
pressure.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
18
* Dried seeds of watermelon and khus-khus (cus-cus grass) are to be taken and
crushed. It is then consumed empty stomach twice daily with water.
* Fenugreek seeds are to be taken twice daily empty stomach is a good
remedy against hypertension.
* Leaves of tulsi and neem two in number are to be consumed empty
stomach to get relieve from high blood pressure.
* Consuming papita (papaya) empty stomach for 15 to 20 days helps in
curing hypertension.
* Curd mixed with Spiegel seeds also prevents high blood pressure.
* Walking barefoot on green grass early morning also is a good remedy
to avoid hypertension as it improves blood circulation.
* Consuming baked potatoes is also effective treatment for
curing hypertension.
* Honey mixed with onion juice is considered best remedy
when consumed twice daily.
* Grape juice is also a good remedy which lowers blood pressure.
* Yogic exercises like surya namaskar, makar asana, matsya asana,
vajra asana, ardha padma asana, pavanmukta asana, shava asana and
pranayam are very effective in bringing down blood pressure.
It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you, not by angels or by demons, heaven or hell. - Buddha
Read
more:http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/b/budd
ha.html#ixzz1MAU4VIIm- Buddha
- Dr. Anuradha Kamath
19
Krishnappa was a retired teacher,
making both ends meet with the pension
he received. He lived with his wife
Shobha in Mulki. They
had brought up their
only daughter “Preeti”
with love and care.
Being a studious girl,
she got admission in
KREC , Suratkal and
was doing her BE
course. Niroop, who
was senior to her by two
years, was much helpful
to her in learning
lessons. He had been visiting her
parents also. Though a Bengali, he
studied Kannada and was living like a
Kannadiga and Krishnappa was very
much impressed with him.
When Preeti completed B. E,
Niroop completed M.Tec and was ready
to go to the States. By that time their
friendship had developed in to love, and
with the consent from both the family,
they were married. Both planned to go to
America.
Things will go as per only God’s
wish, and God’s wish is not known to
the selfish man. He wishes in a different
way and gets sorrow when the things do
not happen as per his wishes. If he
concedes ‘let the God’s wish prevail’, he
will never be unhappy. Having given us
life, is it not His desire and duty to look
after us? Being with us through out all
our 84 lakh lives, He works for our
betterment only. But we human beings
do not understand this.
Relatives and friends
obtained by us temporarily
during this life are dear to
us. But we forget
Paramatma who dwells in
us as eternal life force
through all our various
lives we forget. Like Sita,
we develop attachment to
the golden deer of desire
and fall prey to Ravana-
the sorrow.
Krishnappa’s position too was
like this. When his beloved daughter left
for US, he felt a part of his heart being
torn away. He felt neither hunger nor
sleep and his health started deteriorating.
That is when he started visiting Ashram
along with wife. The atmosphere and
activities of Ashram completely changed
the situation. He learnt how to pacify the
mind and about the hollowness of our
attachment on the mundane objects.
One year flew rapidly and news came
that Preeti was in her family way. They
were happy on the prospects of being
grand parents. The young couple invited
them to America. As the children born in
IT IS ALL FOR THE BEST.
20
America get American citizenship as
well as Indian citizenship , as per the
latest practice among Indians working in
America, they also decided to have their
baby born there itself.
So, both of them applied for
passports and started preparing for their
US visit. It was difficult for them
especially to Krishnappa to leave home
for a long period of 3-4 months. There
were two cows and two acres of
farmland. They loved working in the
fields and rearing up the cattle. Making
alternative arrangement for them was
much difficult. Yet they decided to go at
least for 3 months during the delivery.
But the God’s wish was different the
other way. Their visa application was
rejected.
Preeti became very much upset
and she advised her mother to apply for
visa alone. And lo! this time she got
visa. But going alone to US, leaving her
husband alone at home was not palatable
for Shobha. But krishnappa was happy.
He never wanted to leave home. He had
learnt a lot about the cultureless America
and had no inkling to visit it. He any
how encouraged his wife to go alone and
help her daughter in her delivery. Ticket
was booked for 6th
June and all
preparations were done. But again
God’s wish was different. On 4th
Shobha
developed diarrohea. The next day it
aggravated. She had to be shifted to
hospital and kept under saline. And
hurriedly they postponed the flight ticket
to 15th
. All were unhappy. They all
thought that God was merciless with
them. But Krishnappa used to Ashram
Life, kept cool and said “It is all for the
best.” Surprisingly within two days
Shobha recovered fully.
And then the destined event
happened. While repairing the water
boiler in the bath room, Krishnappa got a
severe shock. His hand clung to the live
wire. As he screamed, Shobha came
running, within a flash, she picked up a
dry wooden log and thrashed at his hand
and liberated it from the live wire. He
collapsed, but was saved from
electrocution. He was rushed to the
hospital with partial paralysis. But with
the grace of God recovered fast and was
back at home within a week.
Then the grace of God downed
on them. Had Shobha not got diarrohea
Krishnappa could have been alone in the
house. God wanted to save him. Hence
God retained his wife with him by
making them cancel her American visit.
It is all for the best!
...YOGACHARYA.
21
Versatile animal - a boon of life.
The Indian cow is facing the tragedy that
takes place when cruelty and foolishness
of human beings, meet. “By allowing the
extinction of indigenous breed of cow,
we are causing the decay of the greatest
wealth of the nation and inviting our
own peril”, said Ramachandrapur math
pontiff Shri Raghaveshwara Bharathi
Swamiji. He was delivering a
benedictory speech at the Bharatiya
Gotaligala Samrakshana Jagrathi
Sammelan at Nehru Maidan in
Mangalore.
Cow is an asset. No great personalities
of our history, no religion in the world
have supported violence on cattle. They
are the ultimate companions of human
society, he said. Cow is a moving temple
in the real sense. It is the place where 33
crore divine powers reside. Generally,
the devotee should move towards God,
but cow that enjoys the status of God
comes towards the devotees, he
explained.
Focusing on the violence that has been
meted out to the cattle breed in the
country, he questioned, what would be
the state of human being if same thing
was practiced against him. Announcing
that the Bharatiya Goyatra is only to
preserve the decay of Indian cattle
breeds, he clarified that the Yatra is not
against any particular organization or
community. He also said that cow is the
only living being that can protect the
whole human community from the
fatality of a nuclear war. “The researches
of Bhaba Atomic Research Centre have
proved that cow dung is the only
material that can go against the danger
of nuclear radiation” he stated.
Speaking on the occasion Bangalore
Children Hospital Dr. Akbar Pasha said
the protection of cattle species should be
made a legal obligation. Edward Pinto
also spoke.
Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari D
Veerendra Heggade presided.
Pejawarmath seer Vishwesha Teertha
Swamiji was present and he, on behalf of
the assembled pontiffs of various matts
highlighted the importance of retaining
the pure Indian breeds of sacred cows.
Desi Cow
22
Arka [Gomootra] for Cancer
Raghaveshwara Bharathi Swamiji honoured Gilbert
Saldanha and Vivian Crasta, who have been cured of Cancer
using Arka. Punyakoti Cancer Chikitsalaya physician
Satyashankar Verumudi, who treated them with gomootra
said, he has been using gomootra on about 650 cancer
patients for the past few years. “Gomootra contains 8-10 PH
factor (alkaline which does not allow cancer tissues to
develop- according to allopathic principles. It also has the
quality to speed up the effect when used with other
medicine,” he stated.
One dose of Arka means 2 spoons of Arka mixed with 2 spoons of water. This
is more effective if taken on empty stomach. While taking this treatment some
food items and habits are to be avoided. Things to be avoided are
Consumption of tea, coffee, non vegetarian food, bakery items and food that
are very hot [chili] and sour. Smoking and taking of any type of drugs and
drinking of alcohol too should be completely avoided.
Ajji treated me with such LOVE I can
never forget. Her welcome was always
from the heart.
On one afternoon, Ajji was sitting on a
chair and asked me to bring a chair and
sit in front of her, she smiled at me and
said, 'Swamy says you to repeat after
me....' She made me chant a manthra
twice and said, 'Swamy says to practise
this'
When I started chanting the Manthra, my
mind always calmed down instantly.
But if I chanted the
Manthra may be more
than 15-20 times, I
felt such uneasiness in my head, I felt
like screaming and felt very very
different. I had no idea what was
happening. So invariably I stopped
chanting. I never dared to experiment by
chanting continuously. But it never
occurred to me that I can ask Ajji about
it!
Ajji’s Sandeshas
23
I understood about the effect of that
Manthra after attending the chanting
sessions in our Ashram.
There were also occasions when Ajji
would ask seemingly irrelevant
questions. One morning I went to her
house, as soon as she opened the door,
asked me whether I planned to stay there
for long!. Though puzzled, standing on
the steps I answered that I had time till
afternoon, so was in no hurry.
Immediately she asked me slowly but in
one breath,' a lady I know is admitted in
Vijaya clinic, I wanted to visit her, but
couldn't go alone. So child, shall we
catch an auto and go to see her? Is that
o.k. with you? The hospital is nearby, I
have the money for the auto'. Ajji
always spoke very clearly, to the point
without beating around the bush!
But the tone in which she asked was as
though she was asking for a very huge
favour! I replied,'fine Ajji, it is ok with
me let's go'.
Then like a small girl she says, 'I just
need to change sari, today I wanted to go
and see Lalithamma ,so I finished my
bath,pooja,breakfast and all other work
very early, and was thinking how to go
to Vijaya clinic. And lo! You came and
you agreed’.!
Here I have to mention that Lalithamma
was not a very very close person to Ajji,
nor was a relative.
We hired an auto, went to Vijaya clinic.
Ajji had taken the details, so we went to
see the patient. The patient was heavily
sedated. Ajji sat before her and in such
soft and sweet voice, filled with love she
tried to speak with the lady,
'Lalithamma...how are you?’ Of course
the lady didn’t respond. For a second I
felt ‘what is wrong with Ajji, the lady
won't wakeup’. But I forcefully told
myself, 'look Ajji is above all of us, so
don't be judgemental about her
knowledge, just watch her'.
She usually spoke about 'Sweet
nothings’ or at times she continued
chantings. Sometimes she sang Bhajans
and told me to sing Bhajans too. At
times she would lie down and fall asleep
saying 'child, I am tired so let me lie
down for a while. You will be here when
I wake up!?' And I usually sat looking
around, waiting for her to wake up or
went to her Pooja room and sat there
wondering or doing nothing! On our way
back Ajji told me,' Child, Lalithamma is
suffering a lot, isn't she!?..'
Right at that moment I experienced such
immense compassion flowing from her
which forced me to realise ,'This must be
the true compassion which flows
effortlessly from her heart and here I am
calculating every little move and
thinking only about I ,me and myself!
Oh God! Why am I only capable of
thinking about the loss and gain in
everything...everyday.... and why not
simple love like her!?'
24
Actually each of my meeting with Ajji,
she gave me practical lessons,
sometimes I understood immediately,
often I understood as time went by. And
I am still learning, remembering my
experiences with her
After few visits to Ajji's house, many
times I thought, 'what if I quit my studies
and stay here with Ajji, may be as a cook
or as her nursing assistant! It is such a
Sathkarma, how nice it will be to serve
her!'
These thoughts prompted me to ask her a
question, ‘As God is the ultimate
authority isn't it his job to feed us!? ‘Ajji
gave a beautiful answer, 'No child, it is
not like that...God's creation is complete
in itself. He has given stomach and
hunger. At the same time He has given
hands, legs, and Intelligence and
Discriminative power. We have to use
all these God given things skilfully and
feed ourselves.' She invariably enquired
about all the family members and one
day she asked all of a sudden,'Child,
Does your sister recite Lalitha
Sahasranama? ‘I replied, 'No Ajji, her
husband's family has told her not to.
Because according to their belief women
must not recite Lalitha Sahasranama'.
Ajji said, 'No No Swamy says that
women must recite Lalitha
Sahasranama.All can .But women must.
It is a boon to women. Ask her to recite,
will you!? Everyone else in the family
recite don't they?'
Our family has got some orthodox belief
too, such as women must not pray during
the monthly periods. I didn’t have any
inclination to believe, also I didn’t like
the idea of not praying for 3-4 days in a
month.
So I argued with my mother that,’you
say that Ajji chanted all the Vedic
manthras, did Abhisheka and Pooja, She
chanted all the Stothras even during her
periods and why not us?' My mother
said, 'Ajji is different, we have not
reached that level.' But I wasn't
convinced. So I asked Ajji about it. Ajji
said, 'Child, Swamy says that if you feel
the hesitation/guilt in your mind then
don't pray. If you have no doubts or guilt
in your mind you can definitely pray or
chant any Manthra/Stothra including
Lalitha Sahasranama' Her words were
very very kind!
Listening to this I felt that God is all
kind but we tie ourselves and others with
fear and guilt, especially where it is not
at all required.
25
"You are not the doer" is a very interesting verse that comes in the "Ashtavakra
Geeta". It is not an easy concept for people to comprehend when
they first encounter it, or are new to the spiritual path. Let us see
how the great sage Ramana Maharishi explains it.
A Disciple (D) goes to the Guru Ramana Maharishi (G) for
Self Knowledge and the conversation is recorded as follows:
D: Sir, I want to get liberated.
G: You Are Ever Liberated.
D: How can you say that?
G: Why do you think otherwise? What binds you?
D: Today morning, I got angry.
G: Anger is of mind. You are not the
mind.
D: Should I, therefore, not address the
anger?
G: If you understand you are not the
mind, will the anger arise?
D: What does that mean?
G: You tell me, how did you get angry?
D: My subordinate did not work
properly.
G: So? Subordinate did not make you
angry. Suppose you had no thought of it!
That is you did not know this. Would
you be angry about it?
D: No.
G: So when a thought arose you were
affected by that thought. Who "Took"
that thought and built anger out of it?
D: I
G: Yes, Who is this "I" ?
D: Its Me. I got affected by the thought.
G: So what happened exactly? The
thought came... and then what ?
D: I felt that could trouble my project.
G: Yes. So who is this "I" ?
D: The manager of the project.
G: That is a role in "mind", do you get
this?
D: Not quite.
G: Ok, Are you the manager ?
D: Yes.
G: Suppose tomorrow you lose that
post. Do you become non-existent?
D: No!
G: So that means you are not the
manager.
D: What Am I then?
G: We will come to that. But then, you
are not a manager... you are playing the
role of a manager! Isnt it ?
D: Yes
G: Similarly you are playing the role of a
father, a son etc.
D: Yes.
A CONVERSATION WITH RAMANA MAHARSHI
26
G: The roles you play are called Upadhis
... Adjuncts. You are not defined by
them.
D: Ok.
G: So now, these roles are all mental.
Therefore they can get "Hit" by the
thoughts.
D: Yes.
G: Suppose all these adjuncts are removed.
What are you?
(Compiled by Dr (Mrs) Meena Bhaduria)
To Be Contd
One lazy afternoon, a Lion was sleeping in the sun. The mouse, coming upon the
Lion, thought that if he climbed on top of him, he might be able to see quite a distance
away. So the mouse ran up on the Lion's back to his head.
The Lion woke up in anger and caught the mouse with his large paw. As he was about
to kill the mouse, he pleaded saying, "If you would only spare my life, I would be sure
to repay your kindness someday."
The Lion was greatly amused at the thought of a small mouse being able to help him.
He laughed at the thought, but let him go.
It happened shortly after this that the Lion was caught by some hunters, who bound
him by strong ropes to the ground. The lion was roaring inside the net made of rope,
but no one came for help. Far from the lion, the mouse heard the roar and recognized
it as the same lion. The mouse came up to the lion, cut the ropes with its tooth and set
the lion free. The lion thanked the mouse.
"You see," said the Mouse, "sometimes even a small mouse like me can help a large
Lion."
MORAL: No one is too weak to do good, and even the strongest of us can use the
help of the smallest.
Don't dismiss the offer of help from someone you may consider weaker than you.
Even they have talents that can be of great benefit.
Title: The Lion and the Mouse
27
Literary Legacy
Avvaiyar’s literary legacies of works on
ethics remain a subject of study for
school children even today. The study of
books written by realized souls is very
beneficial. It is equivalent to the company
of the wise. Some of her sayings are as
follows:-
Harsh words do not conquer
soft ones: the arrow that
strikes down elephants
harms not a piece of
cotton: the rock that is
not split with the long
iron crowbar, splits when
the roots of a tender shrub
enter it.
Too much eating results in the revolt of
the senses, in the increase of desires and
in ultimate ruin. To eat just enough to
keep alive and to get the best out of life is
a duty of every wise man.
cool are the rays of the moon: cooler still
is sandal paste: coolest are the pleasant
words of the gracious who have love,
learning and patience.
It is not possible to calm down the waves
before bathing. It is useless to wait until
one has grown rich before
doing good, for riches may
not then stand one in good
stead. A man should do
good whenever he can
according to his means.
To him alone riches
prove useful.
When arranging a daughter’s
marriage, the father looks for a
bridegroom with learning: her mother
looks for wealth: the kinsmen look for
caste: and the daughter looks for beauty.
WOMEN IN SPIRITUALITY - X
AVVAIYAR Part -2 (Contd)
Banumathi Raghunathan
“The goal of mankind is knowledge ... Now this knowledge is inherent in man. No
knowledge comes from outside: it is all inside. What we say a man 'knows', should,
in strict psychological language, be what he 'discovers' or 'unveils'; what man
'learns' is really what he discovers by taking the cover off his own soul, which is a
mine of infinite knowledge.”
- Swami Vivekananda
28
THE ABSOLUTE:
No mind, no form, I only exist
Now ceased all will and thought.
The final end of Nature’s dance
I am it whom I have sought
A realm of bliss bare, ultimate
Beyond both knower and known
A rest immense I enjoy at last
I face the One alone
I have crossed the secret ways of life,
I have become the Goal
The truth immutable is revealed
I am the way, the God – Soul
My Spirit aware of all the heights
I am mute in the care of Sun
I barter nothing with time and deeds,
My Cosmic play is done.
GOD’S FORGIVENESS
O my Life’s love Supreme
Sleeplessly I invoke You
To forgive me today
O great One, O world’s
Reality – Salvation
May I be fully awakened
In purity’s auspicious dawn.
(From the writings of Sri Chinnmoy)
(Mrs. Ratan V Betkar, Goa)
POEM KORNER
I. Soak stained hankies in salt water before washing.
II. Sprinkle salt on your shelves to keep ants away.
III. Soak fish in salt water before descaling; the scales will come off easier.
IV. Put a few grains of rice in your salt shaker for easier pouring.
V. Add salt to green salads to prevent wilting..
VI. Test the freshness of eggs in a cup of salt water; fresh eggs sink; bad ones float.
VII. Add a little salt to your boiling water when cooking eggs; a cracked egg will stay in
its shell this way.
VIII. A tiny pinch of salt with egg whites makes them beat up fluffier.
IX. Soak wrinkled apples in a mildly salted water solution to perk them up.
X. Rub salt on your pancake griddle and your flapjacks won't stick.
XI. Soak toothbrushes in salt water before you first use them; they will last longer.
XII. Use salt to clean your discolored coffee pot.
XIII. Mix salt with turpentine to whiten you bathtub and toilet bowl.
XIV. Soak your nuts in salt brine overnight and they will crack out of their shells whole.
Just tap the end of the shell with a hammer to break it open easily.
Boil clothespins in salt water before using them and they will last longer.
stain.
15 uses of salt
29
In Devi Bhagwata Purana, it is mentioned
that once Narada asked Vishnu about the
secret nature of Maya (Illusion).
"What is Maya?" asked Narada.
"The world is my Maya. He who accepts
this, realizes me," said Vishnu.
"Before I explain, will you fetch me some
water?" requested the Lord pointing to a
river.
Narada did as he was told. But on his way
back, he saw a beautiful woman. Smitten
by her beauty, he begged the woman to
marry him. She agreed.
Narada built a house for his wife on the
banks of the river. She bore him many
children. Loved by his wife, adored by
his sons and daughters, Narada forgot all
about his mission to fetch water for
Vishnu.
In time, Narada's children had children of
their own. Surrounded by his
grandchildren, Narada felt happy and
secure. Nothing could go wrong.
Suddenly, dark clouds enveloped the sky.
There was thunder, lightning, and rain.
The river overflowed, broke its banks and
washed away Narada's house, drowning
everyone he loved, everything he
possessed. Narada himself was swept
away by the river.
"Help, help.
Somebody
please help me,"
he cried. Vishnu
immediately
stretched out his
hand and pulled
Narada out of the water.
Back in Vaikuntha, Vishnu asked,
"Where is my water?"
"How can you be so remorseless? How
can you ask me for water when I have
lost my entire family?"
Vishnu smiled. "Calm down, Narada. Tell
me, where did your family come from?
From Me. I am the only reality, the only
entity in the cosmos that is eternal and
unchanging. Everything else is an illusion
- a mirage, constantly slipping out of
one's grasp."
"You, my greatest devotee, knew that.
Yet, enchanted by the pleasures of
worldly life, you forgot all about me. You
deluded yourself into believing that your
world and your life were all that mattered
and nothing else was of any consequence.
As per your perspective, the material
world was infallible, invulnerable,
perfect. That is Maya."
Thus Vishnu dispelled Narada's illusion,
bringing him back to the realm of reality
and making him comprehend the power
of Maya over man.
The Mystical Maya
- A Seeker
Bangalore
30
Ashram’s programs held in May 2011 1
st – Satchintana program was conducted by Dharwad Satsang. Poojya guruji and
dhyana bandhus inaugurated the program at 9.30 am by lighting the lamp. Silent
meditation was held till 11.00 am.
After juice break, Silent meditation continued.
After lunch Satsang members rendered bhajans.
Later Poojya Guruji answered the questions of
the dhyana bandhus. The program concluded
with distribution of Prasad. About 50
meditators participated.
2nd
to 4th _
“Premadhara” Silence meditation camp was held in the presence of Poojya
Guruji. About 5 meditators participated.
14th
& 22nd
- Kriya Yoga Punashchetana was conducted. About 11 & 15 meditators
respectively participated.
15th
- Kundalini Beeja Mantra Punashchetana was conduted. About 12 meditators
participated.
31
UPANISHAD.
- Swamy Paramarthanada,
Chennai
The word Upanishad has two meanings.
The Primary meaning of the word
Upanishad is Brhama Vidhya or Self
knowledge, which is in the form of
Antahkarana Vruthi known as Vruthi
Jnana. Self knowledge, which takes place
in the mind, in the form of an
Antahkarana Vruthi, as a result of the
pursuit of knowledge. Therefore
Upanishad is an internal mental
phenomena. ( Brahama Vidhya in
Sanskrit). In this Self knowledge is called
by the name Upanishad based on its two
fold functions. Self knowledge is called
by the name Upanishad based on its two
fold functions, which is indicated in the
very name itself. The word Upanishad is
split in to two portions to reveal these two
functions. The first portion is UPANI,
which reveals the first function of the
knowledge and the second portion is
SHAD, which reveals the second function
of the knowledge. Upani is the function
no 1. Shad is the function no 2. What is
the meaning of the word Upani? Upani
means that which combines together, that
which joins together. A combiner is
called Upani. Self knowledge is called
Upani, because of its function of
combining two things. Naturally the
question will be which two things are
combined, joined, united or merged? The
answer is JIVATMA and
PARAMATMA combiner. Self
knowledge is called Upani, because it
combines, joins together Jivatma and
Paramatma. Now the next question is
how can any knowledge combine two
things? Any combination can happen
only through an action. How can any
knowledge combine two things? Suppose
you want to prepare coffee, having the
knowledge of milk, coffee powder, sugar
alone is not sufficient. Can mere
knowledge combine these three things?
Never. But only by an action process we
can combine. How can you say that
knowledge is a combiner of two things?
Knowledge can combine. Fortunately
here, separation between Jivatma and
Paramatma is notional, a
misconception, born out of ignorance.
The separation or division between
Jivatma and Paramatma is ignorance.
Therefore how do you remove a notional
division? Any notional division is
removed by dropping the notion. Any
notion is born out of ignorance, and
therefore notion is dropped by dropping
ignorance. The division is dropped by
dropping the notion. Notion is dropped by
dropping the ignorance. The ignorance is
dropped by gaining knowledge. Therefore
by gaining knowledge, you are dropping
ignorance. By dropping ignorance, you
drop the notion of division. Once the
notion is gone, division is gone, this
removal of division is called combining,
uniting or merging of Jivatma and
paramatma. This is the first function of
knowledge. What is the function? Jivatma
and Paramatma’s union. This is indicated
by the word Upani.
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Second function of knowledge.
Second function is indicated by the word
SHAD. This reveals the function of
destruction or termination. Once you say
it is a destroyer, the question comes,
destroyer of what? Destroyer of Samsara.
It is the terminator of Samsara. The
terminator is knowledge and the
knowledge terminates what? All the
Samsara i.e., anger, hate, greed, lust,
jealousy and conceit. Therefore SHAD
means the destroyer. Upani means the
combiner. Therefore UPANIDHAD
means combiner cum destroyer. It is also
called Brahama Vidhya or Self
knowledge. This is the primary meaning
of the word UPANISHAD.
What is the secondary meaning of the
word Upanishad?. The secondary
meaning is the scriptures, especially the
final portion of the Vedhas (Vedantha).
These scriptures are also called
Upanishad. The next question is how can
you call the scriptures as the Upanishad?
Knowledge also can be called Upanishad,
because the knowledge alone destroys the
Samsara. The text will not destroy
Samsara. How can you call the text as the
Upanishad? So, we say this is lakshyarta.
Lakshyarta is the text which does not
directly destroy samsara, but the text
produces the knowledge which destroys
Samasara. Mantras do not directly
destroy Samsara. The mantra produces,
the knowledge for destroying samsara.
Therefore the mantras are also called
UPANISHAD. For example, a person
says, trekking on the Himalayas is a
pleasure. Himalayan trekking is a
pleasure. If you really analyse the
sentence , it is not correct, because
Himalayan trekking is an action done by
the legs. Pleasure always belongs to the
mind. So trekking is a function of the
legs. Pleasure is a mental function. How
can any person say, the Himalayan
trekking is a pleasure. Here Himalayan
trekking is producer of pleasure. It is the
cause of the pleasure. Similarly the
mantras are called Upanishad. Mantras
can not be the Upanishad, but still they
are called Upanishad, because mantras
are producers of knowledge. (The
destroyer of samsara) The word
Upanishad primarily means knowledge
and secondarily knowledge producing
mantra. These mantras which are also
called Upanishad are plenty, occurring at
the end portion of all the four Vedas.
Since these Upanishads are occurred at
the end portion of Veda, they are also
known as Vedantha. Since they produce
knowledge for destroying samsara, They
are called Upanishad. They are also
called Vedanta.
Now these mantras produce the
knowledge generally in the form of a
dialogue between a Guru and Disciple. A
particular dialogue or a group of
dialogues put together is called one
Upanishad. For example Kenopanishad is
between one Guru and one disciple.
Mundakopanishad is between one Guru
and one disciple. Kathopanishad is
between one Guru and one disciple.
Sometimes a group of dialogues put
together is called one Upanishad. For
example: Prashnopanishad. There are six
students and six dialogues put together in
one Upanishad. Chandokyapanishad
consists of several students and several
teachers and several dialogues put
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together in one Upanishad.
Brihadararnyaka Upanishad several
student and several teaches put together
in one dialogue. Therefore we can say
one dialogue or group of dialogues put
together in one Upanishad. Originally
there were 1180 upanishads, of which
many were lost. More than 200 are
preserved of which 108 are popular, out
of which 10 are principle Upanishads.
Generally 10 upanishads are considered
important, because Adi Shankaracharya
has written commentary on these 10
upanishads. Why Sankaraacharya choose
these 10 upanishads? The reason given is,
these 10 upanishads are predominantly
analysed in the Brahma Sutra written by
Vyasa Maharishi.
These 10 Upanishads are:
1) Isha 2) Kena 3) Katha 4 )
Prashna 5) Taittiriya 6) Mandukya
7) Mundaka 8) Aitreya 9 )
Chandokya and 10)
Brihadaranyaka.