After
a good night’s sleep, all the participants assembled at the Dining Hall for
Gurudev’s morning session, fresh like a just bloomed flower. The morning was
cool and pleasant and the rising sun with its morning red shined through the
Hall setting the perfect ambience to continue the enquiry.
In
today’s class, Gurudev with his usual midas touch very cheerfully untied the
complex knot of mind, mann, mouna and language.
Gurudev
began the discussion with the sleep analogy. He asked the participants, ‘Did
you all sleep well?’ to which the Parivara replied, ‘Yes, Guruji, very well’.
Gurudev asked the Parivara, ‘How did you know that you slept well? You were
absent during your sleep and when that is the case how can you be so sure, so
confident that you slept well?’
Gurudev
brought the focus to the point by asking whether our LANGUAGE communicate what
we intend to communicate? He said that this enquiry is a must for a Sadhaka.
When
we start probing on this, what naturally follows is MOUNA. Gurudev said that
the LANGUAGE that we speak at present emerges from the expression of experience
within. For example, if the experience within is hurt, our language will
invariably be hurt. If it is one that of joy, our language will be that of joy.
Gurudev
beautifully explained that withdrawing out of deep anger, frustration or
helplessness and keeping quiet is not MOUNA. He said MOUNA happens when we
consciously probe our language, we go backwards to find out from where the
language emerges from and in the process we go beyond the mind, and maana,
i.e., mesurement. When we go beyond maana, MOUNA occurs.
By
this time the sun rose a little bit more and perfectly projected its rays on
the face of Gurudev, thereby amplifying the glow of already glowing radiance.
Gurudev
continued in the same vein and said that all, except human beings, that exists
are in tune with divinity. This is so because human beings have evolved two
LANGUAGES – one that is within and one that we project outside due to
obligation, courtesy, etc., For example, when we are angry inside and if we
have to express that while in a group, we won’t be speaking the real language
of anger but express it in a different language which, in this case, will be
sarcasm. He said because of this we have lost touch with the divinity.
In
this connection Gurudev said that LANGUAGE acts as cleaning agent. The analogy
he gave was that if a container is not clean, and into it if you pour pure
milk, it will get spoilt. In the same way, if our maana is impure, even if
Grace flows into it, which is happening in every one of us, every minute, it
gets corrupted. Therefore, the challenge lies in keeping the maana pure and
LANGUAGE is one definite tool to achieve this.
While
we were all wondering at the capacity of Gurudev to assimilate, conceive and
consolidate this treasure called Jnana, he concluded the session for the next
yogasana session to begin. Parivara demonstrated their capacity of Chitta
Vritti Nirodaha by resisting the wonderful aroma of breakfast (today we had
tasty Dosa with chutney) that filled the hall and diligently stayed with the
Yogasana session.
The
undying optimism and creative genius of Gurudev was evident in his 10.15 am
Session on the 19th. It felt so because despite our defiance to his
teachings, he was not tired and kept on working on himself to come up with new
and novel ways of communicating the teachings of our Rishis, for our own good.
The
adjective ‘creative genius’ is not enough to tell the readers about how
painstakingly Gurudev, out of deep devotion to divinity and compassion to
humanity, integrated the teachings of Maharishi Patanjali with the concept of
LANGUAGE that he was sharing. The reader will, no doubt, be awestruck after
reading the rest of the article in which Gurudev has achieved what has been
stated above.
Gurudev
said that the Sadhana Panchaka is not the Sadhana Panchaka of Sri Adi
Shankaracharya but one that of Maharishi Patanjali. Maharishi did not present a
work with the title Sadhana Panchaka but Gurudev has carved out 5 golden
principles from amongst the various Sutras of Maharishi.
After
enlightening the Parivara about the LANGUAGE per se, Gurudev gently introduced
that Samadhi should be the LANGUAGE that we should develop and nurture. Gurudev
firmly believed that in order to overcome the deficiencies of the LANGUAGE that
we have at present, it is a must to introduce a new LANGUAGE which is Samadhi.
Guruji had a word of caution though. He said that Siddhi is not the language
for it will corrupt us and eventually will push us down into the ditch. If the
language of Samdahi is not understood, then the Siddhi will destroy that
person. Gurudev wanted all of us to make Samadhi the CENTRE of our being.
Why do we need
Samadhi?
Gurudev
simplified this concept by interpreting Samadhi as Harmony. Harmony is nothing
but balancing, integrating. He gave the example of a watch to drive this point
home.
Look
at the watch. It has various components of different dimensions and size with
totally unrelated functions. But it is the integration of these different
components that make the watch to function, to be of utility.
In
a similar fashion, for COLLECTIVE CONSCIOUSNESS to work and be of utility, it
is necessary for the INDIVIDUAL CONSCIOUSNES to work in harmony even though
they are different from each other at the individual level.
Gurudev
wants us to develop and strengthen this LANGUAGE so that it reflects in all our
actions, emotions, etc.
Our
body is like our Nation viz., Federal in structure. It is a Corporation
consisting of body, mind, intellect, etc., that have developed over many births
due to a definite process. In the present form, they are disintegrated.
Unless
we consciously make efforts to bring integration inside this CORPORATION, freedom cannot be achieved, which is
the very purpose of a Jiva.
When
you hate someone, trying to hurt someone, you don’t have freedom. On the other
hand if you love a person unconditionally, selflessly, there is freedom. This
is not a theory or philosophy but is very much pragmatic and can be verified by
testing.
With
this Gurudev has laid the framework that freedom
is the purpose of life and harmony
is the language to communicate. Well, in that case, from where to begin with?
What is the practical approach then here?
Unlearning
what we have learnt already is the practical and workable solution to this
challenge. To unlearn Gurudev presents what is called SADHANA PANCHAKA.
Gurudev
very beautifully clubbed the first two Sutras of Maharishi in the Sadhana Pada
of Patanjali Yoga Shastra,
Atha Yogaanu
Shasanam
Yogaha Chitta
Vritti Nirodaha
and
suggested it to be the first step in the process of unlearning.
Here
one cannot miss the CREATIVE GENIUS of Gurudev on how he blended these two
sutras with masterly delicacy.
ATHA YOGA
ANUSHASANAM
ATHA
means present. Atha is eternal. But
our mind is the product of past and future. Because of this mind always stays
in continuity and is not able to stay in the present. To make this happen, one
has to follow in a disciplined way Yoga. This is what is meant when we say Yoga
Anushasanam. Yuj is the root word for Yoga which means to unite, to harmonize.
At
this point, Gurudev used the classroom as an example. He said that a listener
should not take whatever I say into their mind and start analyzing and
practicing it later. He said the practice should happen as my teaching touches
your mind and not sometime later. That is living in ATHA, he proclaimed.
We
are not able to be in ATHA because the language that we have created in the
mind comes in the way. Moreover the LANGUAGE that we have at present is one
that of continuity which is different and contrary to the one that we should
have. This LANGUAGE occupies the space of ATHA. What do we need to do to vacate
this LANGUAGE of continuity?
Here,
Gurudev merges the second Sutra Chitta
Vritti Nirodaha. He says that Chitta Vritti Nirodaha means slowing down the
speed of the reactions from the Chitta. He asks, ‘Can you stop relying on the
reactions from the Chitta and respond to the situation?’ In other words, he
says this is the best way to vacate the LANGUAGE of continuity which prevents
us from staying in ATHA.
Gurudev
gave the example of servant opening the door. Suppose you are in your house and
the door bell rings. Your servant goes and opens the door, and let the person in.
This way, if your servant keeps on pumping people inside your house, where will
be the space for you to stay? In the same manner the reactions are your servant
and you are the Master. If your reactions pump in lots of things and crowd the
chitta, there won’t be any space left for you to stay.
Gurudev
said that Maharishi has not given the description of how our true self will
look like. He has left it to be experienced by oneself DIRECTLY. Imagine, at
the physical level, if you want to know how you look, you need a mirror to
reflect your image. In the same way, if you want to know the REAL SELF of
yours, you need a reflecting surface within you and that surface is your
chitta. Just as a smudged, cracked or convex or conclave mirror cannot give a
true reflection, a disintegrated chitta cannot project your true self.
Gurudev
very briefly touched upon Abhyasa and Vairagya and concluded the Session.
Gurudev said that when you take a stand, staying put with that, come whatever
may, is Abhyasa. And, when you give
up all that which disturbs you, diverts you to stay in the position that you
have taken, i.e., Abhyasa, is Vairagya.
Jyothi Ma Session:
After a cup of hot tea with the gentle
fragrance of cardamom and ginger, the Parivara assembled in the Dining Hall for
Jyoti Madam’s Session at 4.30 pm. Suddenly the climate became very cloudy
raising the hopes of respite from the day’s heat with good, evening showers. In
this backdrop, Jyoti Madam started addressing the Parivara.
Sadhana Sangama: Summer Camp 2014
Madam originally wanted to share Durga
Sapthasati as Sadhana but ended up discussing what Sadhana is all about.
She made an opening remark with the analogy
of Prana. Just as we are not conscious of our Prana, we are not aware that
Sadhana is in us.
Madam’s compassion was no less as to that of
Gurudev’s when she devoted the entire session to give a base about Sadhana.
Sadhana Sangama: Summer Camp 2014
Inherent characteristic of the mind is to
measure. It is comfortable in time-space-causation combination and asks
questions.
When a disciple who is in the grip of such a
Chitta meets the Guru, the chitta throws a lots of question such as how does Sadhana
begin, how it progresses and how does it end? If at all it ends, then how do we
comprehend that ending?
At this juncture, the Ducks which were
passing by the dining hall with its long and altered ‘quack’ing appeared to be
laughing at the inquisitive ignorance of the chitta.
Madam continued that Guru is needed to help
you to travel in the path of Sadhana without conflicts and confusion. She also
revealed that by dropping everything one can obtain the Grace of Guru. She said
that this is the greatest Sadhana that one can do and one has to do.
Jyoti Madam wanted to end the monologue and
hence engaged the audience with the question what is Sadhana and was evoking a
response from them. Many responded with their own understanding of what Sadhana
is and Madam was helping everyone present with her reply why that perception
cannot be construed as Sadhana. This way she was preparing the ground and aroused
the curiosity of the listeners to know what Sadhana is ultimately about.
Sadhana Sangama: Summer Camp 2014
She structured her point of view by very
briefly touching upon the nature of mind which always quantifies and qualifies
and is interested in the end result and that Spiritual Masters are the greatest
short cut to achieve the goal of Sadhana and to remain in constant awareness
about the goal that we have set for ourselves is Sadhana.
A fine breeze set in at this point and was
caressing all of us giving us the soothing effect symbolizing the touch of Grace
through the words of Madam and the Parivara marched towards the kitchen to
quell the appetite of stomach by filling it with hot cup of tea and Murmure
(puffed rice mixed with roasted groundnuts with the proper mixture of salt,
chilli powder and turmeric powder).
This
time around 40 people have come for the Summer Camp 2014 on Sadhana Panchaka.
The Sadhana Parivara arrived in the Ashram around 6.45 pm on the 18th.
The pleasant weather welcomed the Sadhana Parivara with cool breeze which was
rejuvenating. The mood was set to receive the Grace from the Parampara. Gurudev
sent out a message to all to assemble at the Dining Hall at 7.30 pm for the
inaugural session. Promptly, with all excitement, the Sadhana Parivara
assembled at the appointed time in the Dining Hall.
Sadhana Sangama: Summer Camp 2014
Gurudev
originally planned to address the Sadhana Parivara briefly and then give them
the day’s schedule from 19th onwards. But what flowed through him
was something that had taken even Gurudev by surprise. Rishis, out of great
compassion, decided to bless the humanity with an easy yet practical and
result-driven approach through this lecture and thus flowed the concept ‘LANGUAGE’.
This spark was ignited in Gurudev by the Rishis and Gurudev continued for more
than an hour with enthusiasm and joy. It was really heartening to see Gurudev
with such dynamism and brightness, after he underwent a bad batch in his
physical health till very recently.
Sadhana Sangama: Summer Camp 2014
Gurudev
directly hit the point right from the start emphasizing the impending need to
start observing our ‘LANGUAGE’. Guruji
was very clear that when he says ‘LANGUAGE’ it was not the mother tongue or the
common language that we speak to communicate with each other. By ‘LANGUAGE’
Gurudev was referring to that which guides and controls our speech and behaviour.
That is the ‘LANGUAGE’ of which we have to become aware of and make course
correction, Gurudev opined.
After
explaining what is that ‘LANGUAGE’, Gurudev went on to share the need to
observe and then to correct our ‘LANGUAGE’. He gave many examples to make the Sadhana
Parivara understand this point so that all can start practicing. Gurudev was
unambiguous when he said that meditation, mantra, etc., all will become
redundant and will wither away eventually when we connect with the ‘LANGUAGE’
within. He gave a beautiful example to explain this point.
Sadhana Sangama: Summer Camp 2014
He
said, “Suppose, you want to reach one of your friend’s house to meet him. You
are going to his house for the first time and you don’t know the way. You set out
to reach his home. You start asking people the way. Every one guides you in
their own way. You listen to all of them with attention and just follow the way
that they suggest with diligence. At this point, if you meet your friend
himself on the way, you forget about all those people who were guiding you and
run straight towards your friend. Your search ends; you have found your friend.
Everything else drops. You are with your friend.”
Gurudev
said, in the same way, when you touch THAT LANGUAGE within you, all your search
and effort ends. In the absence of effort what works is SANKALPA. At this point
GURUDEV gave a wonderful meaning to SANKALPA. Gurudev said, “SANKALPA is nothing but the convergence of
all energies at one point.” Gurudev
was stitching together the message of Rishis beautifully in that Gurudev
conceived and presented that LANGUAGE has to culminate in SANKALPA.
With
an illustration, he explained this point beautifully. He said:
“We
eat food three times, four times, five times, etc., since we are born till we
die. We have made it a business to eat, without questioning or altering, yet we
relish this routine because we introduce something new, some variety. In the
same way, can we develop and sustain the business of the LANGUAGE and routinely
observing and correcting the LANGUAGE yet start seeing something new every time
in the same old business? If you can understand this, achieve this, take it
from me you will attain Brahma Jnana.”
With
this message, the Sadhana Parivara dispersed for Yogasana Session after which hot
and tasty Pongal was served in breakfast. The previous night dinner satiated
the taste buds in which we had hot and tasty rasam with rice, with ladyfinger
curry and buttermilk.
The
Inaugural Session also became an occasion in which Kum. Shruti celebrated her
birthday with the entire Sadhana Parivara and took blessings from Gurudev. She
travelled all the way from Mumabi with her parents only to take blessings from
Gurudev on her birthday and to be with the Sadhana Parivara. She turned 13 on
18th May, 2014.
Click here to read previous episodes - , 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
“Son, do you have anything to ask before I leave”?, the Messenger asked in pleasing tone.
I just saw the clock, it was well past 2:00 in the afternoon. I wanted to offer him food, but I was hesitant to ask about it as by now I know he is not bound by hunger or thirst.
I replied, “Sir, I have two questions”...
"Good, I am happy that it’s only two and not more than that… Ask"! said the Messenger.
"Sir, Even after many years of association with my Guruji, I still don’t think I have progressed in my Sadhana. I still feel I haven’t crossed the first hurdle. I feel I am still in the same place. What is that I am missing in my Sadhana" ?
"Are you finding fault in your Guru, bete" ?, asked the Messenger looking straight into my eyes.
"Sir!, certainly not. It’s my fortune that I have got my Guru in this life time. I cannot see any other kind human being in this world that Him. I only feel, I don’t deserve his kindness & blessings he is showering on me as I am still not able to do the one & only thing he is asking me to do., i.e. Sadhana".
"Bete, I am happy that you have understood your Guru. But let me tell you, whatever your have understood about your Guru is only your prespective, as in real terms nobody can judge or understand Guru. As far as your question is concerned, let me quote Swami Rama’s ‘Three stages of Practice:’
1. Initial stage: At this stage, the student thinks that he is practicing, but actually he is preparing himself for the practice. His so-called practice consists of collecting the necessary means and resources to begin and to stay on the path.
2. Intermediate stage: At this stage, a student is fully equipped with all the resources he needs to practice. His time and energy are not involved in collecting means and learning methods, rather he spends his time in practice.
3. Last stage—achievement: At this stage, a student experiences the Truth. He may have only a momentary glimpse of the Truth, but at least it is a direct experience, which helps him understand the greatness of the Truth. Now, sadhana consists of trying to maintain that state. As his practice matures, he becomes an adept; then he need not try, for the experience of non-dual Reality is maintained effortlessly and spontaneously.
Bete, use your faculties to understand, which stage you are in. Sadhana is not easy. It may takes years and sometimes many life’s to even cross one stage to another. So don’t lose hope that you are not progressing with very limited effort from your end. Whatever effort you are putting is nothing compared to the hard work & dedication the great sages have put in their life time to know the Absolute Truth.
"Sir!, you mean to say I cannot get to know the Truth in this life time"?
"Bete!, have you forgotten what Swami Rama used to say. He says, all individuals have the responsibility to enlighten themselves. Do not think you cannot do it. You have that spark. You are fully equipped. You simply need to discipline yourself. Discipline is not a prison. It simply means practice.” So practice practice & practice, you would definitely achieve it. With Guru’s grace, you can get it in this life time too, provided you have done your practice enough and performed your duties unaffected & more importantly passed all the test to receive that uninterrupted lineage of Guru’s Grace".
Having said that, Messenger again closed his eyes for few minutes.
I wish I could record whatever I learnt today since morning & share it with others, but I was not sure if I would be able to recapture all again. Truly this day is the second most remarkable day in my life, the first being the day I met my Guru.
“Ok, what’s your second question” ? Messenger asked in a hurried tone.
I realized, it’s only matter of few minutes for Him to be present here. So I decided not to waste his time.
With must hesitant feeling, I slowly asked my second question .
“Sir, can I know who you are “?
‘What’? , the messenger eye brow rasied.
‘Sir, I met you here in the morning. I have never seen you before in the Sadhana Dhama nor I have seen you with Guruji before? So please let me know your name"?
“I told you I am one of the Messenger”…
“Sir, please don’t avoid this question. You have been so kind answering all my stupid questions. Please do answer this last question also?
“Ok, whom you think I am, let me see your wild guesses”
“Sir, please don’t’ ask me. I am terribly confused. I have many guesses and I am very ashamed to even share it as I don’t think I deserve to have their presence before me… "
"Hahaha… ", the Messenger laughed wholeheartedly and said,
“Ok, I will tell you, before that let us complete the Hanuman Chalisa that you have been reading. I remember we were discussing about how Hanuman met Sita in Lanka & returned'.
"Yes Sir"...
"Right, then on his return, Anjaneya gave Chudamani to Rama & explained everything about Lanka & Sita to him. Rama took the Chudamani very fondly. He was much pleased with Anjaneya and said the whole Ayodhya would not have been enough to perform this deed compared to the accomplishments of Hanuman.
Then Rama called Anjaneya closer and embraced him wholeheartedly. Then Rama with the help of the army of Sugreeva built a bridge across the sea killed all the demons in the war with Ravana.
Ravana along with his brother Kumbhakarna and son Indrajit were killed by Rama and Lakshmana. They all returned back bringing Sita with them. Thus Ram Rajya was again accomplished.
Am I too fast bete!? Messenger asked.
"Certainly yes!, I said to myself but I didn't dare to say it to him upfront.
"Ok!, now complete the hanuman Chalisa that you were reading…", the messenger this time was rather ordering me.
I quickly opened the book and started reciting Hanuman Chalisa, from where I left earlier.
Tumhre bhajan Ram ko pave | Janam janam ke dukh bisrave ||
–
Oh Hanumanji! through devotion to you, one comes to RAM and becomes free from suffering of several lives.
Anta kaal raghubar pur jaae | Jahan janam hari bhakt kahai ||
–
After death he enters the eternal abode of Sri Ram and remains a devotee of him, whenever, taking new birth on earth.
Aur devta chith ne dharai | Hanumat sei sarva sukh karai ||
–
You need not hold any other demigod in mind. Hanumanji alone will give all happiness.
Sankat kate mite sab pira | Jo sumire hanumat bal bira ||
–
Oh Powerful Hanumanji! You end the sufferings and remove all the pain from those who remember you.
Jai jai jai hanuman gosai | Kripa karahu gurudev ki nai ||
–
Hail-Hail-Hail-Lord Hanumanji! I beseech you Honour to bless me in the capacity of my supreme 'GURU' (teacher).
Jo sat bar pat kar koi | Chhutehi bandi maha sukh hoi ||
–
One who recites this Hanuman Chalisa one hundred times daily for one hundred days becomes free from the bondage of life and death and ejoys the highest bliss at last.
As Lord Shankar witnesses, all those who recite Hanuman Chalisa regularly are sure to be benefited
Tulsidas sada hari chera | Kije nath hriday maha dera ||
–
Tulsidas always the servant of Lord prays. "Oh my Lord! You enshrine within my heart.!
DOHA
Pavan tanay sankat haran managal murti roop || Ram Lakhan Sita sahith hriday basahu sur bhoop ||
–
O Shri Hanuman, The Son of Pavan, Saviour The Embodiment of blessings, reside in my heart together with Shri Ram, Laxman and Sita
"Wonderful, Wonderful.... Bolo Jai Siya Ram...., Bolo Ram Chandra Ki Jai...." exclaimed the Messenger.
Now I was in a great excitement to know who the Messenger was .. So I hurriedly closed the book and did full Pranams, holding his feet I asked;
“Sir, Please tell me who you are and bless me to cross the Maya & Ignorance in this life time? “
“Bete, Maya and ignorance are like an ocean. It is eternal. There is no use in praying for it to get dried up. Instead, try to cross it with the help of your Guru. Once crossed the ocean where is the necessity to think back? Proceed in the path of enlightenment. Remember, without God’s compassion, you will not meet a saint. Since you are already met your guru, it only means you are all blessed. Serve your Guru sincerely & offer your humble prayers to Rama and Sitadevi, path breakers of the world. This is my blessing to you".
With that blessing, there was only silence all around for few seconds. I gently opened my eyes and saw few flowers in the place where the Messenger was standing. He is nowhere to be seen. I realized, He has gone.
Tears started coming as my search to find him again in the Dhyana Mandira didn't pay any results. I know he has gone. Was it a dream or my own imagination? Was he really there ? Certainly it cannot be dream as I almost spent more than 8 hours inside Dhyana Mandira with Him today.
Who is he? A messenger, a Saint or any incarnation ?
My inner voice told me, "Whoever it may be, it is more important on what he shared with me than trying to be curious to know about Him".
I really do not know if this day is going to the change real ME in me. But certainly it showed me more reasons to feel blessed to have my Guru in this life time as without His Grace, nothing could have been possible nor would be.
I decided to go back to my room and rest for a while as I too didn't feel any interest to have my lunch. So decided to offer my pranams to the gigantic Hanuman ji statute in front of me before retiring to my room.
As I did my pranams to Anjaneya, I heard again a voice, echoing the entire Dhyana Mandira, in a very soothing way…
Raghupathi Raghava Raja Ram, Patita Pavana Sita Ram ...
It’s Him again.. .the messenger.. but not visible to my eyes any more… But I am sure, he would give his Dharsan to all true seekers who visit the Sadhana Dhama Ashram.
May be we can find Him during thisSummer Camp on May 18th if we sincerely pray & do our Sadhana….
If any of you did, please share it with us....
Jai Siya Ram…
(Shri Rama Dootham Story series ends here... Sadhana continues...)
-'Bansuri'
Today being Rama Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama to King Dasharatha and Queen Kausalya of Ayodhya, humbly sharing a small video created as an amateur attempt below. Please view in full screen mode with Audio...
(Please note that the views expressed in this fictional story series are the views of the author's own imagination taking reference from various sources which includes but not limited to Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, Hanuman chalisa along with Swami Rama & Guruji Pattabhiram's teachings. If you find any text inappropriate, the author seeks humble apologies.Pic couresy: Internet)
Guruji from 'Obstacles in the path of Sadhana' DVD
Patanjali, the codifier of yoga science, taught that all human beings can attain the goal of human life by understanding the yoga sutras, practicing them, and applying them in daily life. As Swami Rama says, "Patanjali did not write these sutras for swamis or renunciates; he meant them for the people of the world so that one can live in the world yet remain unaffected and undisturbed, enjoying peace, happiness, and bliss".
Guruji Pattabhiram has given series of lectures on Patanjali's yoga Shastra's helping us to understand how to practice & apply these yoga sutras in our daily life. Today let us look upon one such lecture DVD called "Obstacles On The Path Of Sadhana" from our Guruji on Patanjali Yoga Sutra's .
Meditation Session:
The DVD starts up with a meditation session where Guruji stresses on the importance of developing the stamina and patience while practicing meditation. He puts a challenging request to all the aspirants to organize their life style in such a way that will enable them to sit still for atleast ONE hour during meditation.
To experience the stillness and inner harmony during meditation, He suggests that our our whole being has to become still, stable and comfortable. Find out from this Meditation session how to get that Harmony within one's own self.
Guruji explaining obstacles in the path of sadhana
Lecture Session:
Guruji in this lecture series, quotes the following sutra from Patanjali to set the base before moving on to explain the obstacles in the path of sadhana.
Guruji beautifully explains the above sutra word by word for us to easily understand. He explains us how our Mind which goes through hurt and other negative feelings over the years, stores & nourishes them. Physical hurt may be healed, but when we say something bad to our near & dear one's, perhaps they might forgive us but will never forget. Often we might have gone through such experiences where we say something hurting others and later repent on why we had to say that.
Guruji explaining obstacles in the path of sadhana
Guruji says, because our mind is struck due to Vitarkah, we miss beautiful divine opportunities in life. Guruji asks us to be aware of every reaction coming from ourselves. He is asking us to observe our reactions and see if they are coming from higher intelligence or is it from the mind that we have created. This sections explains how to make that differentiation and how to free our consciousness from this Vitharka zone.
Once the sincere aspirant is able to free from Vitharka zone, the journey continues further & reach the Vichara zone. Reactions of the mind from Vitharka zone is destructive whereas the reactions from the Vichara zone is completely opposite to it. One has enormous patience in Vichara zone.
Guruji explaining Vitharka & Vichara zone
Guruji states that the aspirant reaches the zone of Ananda if the reactions of the mind come from Vichara zone. Ananda is the zone where there is no conflict. When there is conflict, "ME" consciousness develops and when there is only Ananda , "WE" consciousness flourishes.
As the Meditation continues, the aspirant move from the zone of Ananda and experiences 'Asmita'.
Guruji here provide practical examples of what is Asmita & how it works in different ways.
Listening to Guruji's lectures, does anyone feel that though the lectures were good & we are listening, nothing concrete changes are happening in our life ? (or) Though Guruji's lectures are good, they are not practical enough to follow in one's daily life ?
If so, your questions are answered here as Guruji himself take these questions and provide answers to them beautifully in his own unique style on why the required transformation are not happening in us.
Then Guruji moves on to explain three important powerful energy fields which are part of Vitharka. They are;
Guruji explaining Lobha, Krodha & Mogha
- Lobha (Greed)
- Krodha (Anger)
- Mogha (Attachment)
The intensity of these are Mridhu Madhya adhi matra
The intensity of these energies are Mridhu (soft), Madhya (medium) & adhi matra (intense) in different human beings.
Guruji then explains, from Asmita the aspirant moves on to the zone of samyakpragya. Samyakpragya means consciousness with the state of equilibrium which is a beautiful state for a meditator.
How to receive Grace ?
To make us understand Samyakpragya, Guruji gives practical example of how a child is treated by their parents and their grandparents. Guruji says one has to become like a scientist in relating spirituality with one's own life & relationship. Guruji asks us not become emotional as it has no value here.
Guruji says by being emotional, they lose the joy of this spiritual journey. Before seeking Grace from the Lord, Guruji is asking a serious question if we are receiving Grace & love from our own self ?
Self pity, complaining & cribbing no more helps an sincere aspirant, instead one has to have Anugraha (Grace) from his own self. Guruji says, Once you have grace from your own self then seek the Grace from the Lord.
So what is to be done? Guruji is asking us to change the language of how & what we speak. The sadhana he suggest here is - When we start speaking, see to it every word that we utter should not come from the vitharka zone, but from the samyak zone, the state of equilibrium. According to Guruji, Speech is a powerful vehicle to develop a good sadhana.
However, because of the obstacles that the Mind has created, one is not able to progress in the path of Sadhana. Then Guruji explains briefly what are those nine obstacles that are blocking us to progress in the path of Sadhana:
1) Vyadhi
2) Styana
3) Samsaya
4) Pramada
5) Halasya
6) Avirati
7) Brantidarsana
8) Alabdha bhumika
9) Anavasthitatva
Friends, Patanjali’s method is subtle, exact and profound and with the help of Guruji's lectures it becomes easier for us to apply them in our daily life, provided we could overcome these obstacles in the path of Sadhana as explained by our Guruji.
This single DVD is a part Guruji's complete discourse on Ashtanga Yoga, for the advancement on the spiritual path. The other DVD titles which are available in the complete discourse are:
Guruji during Ashtanga Yoga Lecture session
1. Freedom -- Are You Ready?
2. Maintaining The Right Balance
3. Obstacles On The Path Of Sadhana
4. Overcoming Obstacles
5. Removing Kleshas Through Kriya Yoga
6. Removing Impurities
7. Ashtanga Yoga -- The Eight Fold Path Of Yoga -- Vol. I
8. Ashtanga Yoga -- The Eight Fold Path Of Yoga -- Vol. II
The above 8 titles are also available as individual DVDs. If you are interested to get this DVD, please contact +91-9312796128 / 9868112750 or write to basantpnd4@gmail.com. For other list of DVD's please visit here
Hope you liked this novice attempt of looking upon Guruji's DVD lectures. We conclude this section by quoting Swami Rama:
Entire life is sadhana. You ask, “Is it possible for me to know God? Is it possible for me to be a spiritual person? Is it possible for me to do this?”
Patanjali, the codifier of yoga science, says, “O aspirant, learn to practice until the last breath of your life.”
Let the heavens shower all the blessings upon you, so that you can grow and unfold yourself, and accomplish the purpose of life.
Click here to read previous episodes - , 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
"Sir, When one is on a worthy mission, all the celestial will be there to help, Am I right sir" ?.
"Yes Bete!…", replied the Messenger.
"How is it possible" ?
"Through Grace…"
"How do we get that Grace?"
"Be silent inside and empty you ego. The Grace will work through you".
"Could you please be little elaborate?"
"Swami Rama says that, Grace comes of its own when a seeker has made maximum effort. When all efforts have been made, and all efforts have been exhausted, then grace comes. A power comes from above, of its own, to a vessel that is cleaned, purified, and is prepared to receive it"
"Hmm…!"
"Don't just nod your head for whatever I say. Instead find out if you are prepared with a clean & purified vessel to receive the Grace?", the Messenger roared.
"As I see, I am still a long way to go Sir…", I replied with a cheeky smile.
"Atleast you are fortunate that you know the way to receive that Grace. Keep working, you will succeed. Remember, Grace is the fruit that you receive from your faithful and sincere efforts. So don’t stop trying".
"Will do Sir…"
"Bete, it’s almost lunch time and we are talking since early dawn. It’s time for me to go. Will you not spare me with your questions"?, the Messenger asked with a pleading voice.
Seeing the Messenger again talking about leaving the place, I hurriedly took my Hanuman Chalisa Book and started reading from where I left, as I find its the only way to keep him here;
Ram duware tum rakhvare | Hot na aagya bin paisare ||
–
Oh Hanumanji! You are the sentinel at the door of Ram's mercy mansion or His divine abode. No one may enter without your permission.
Sab sukh lahe tumhari sharna | Tum rakshak kahu ko darna ||
–
By your grace one can enjoy all happiness and one need not have any fear under your protection.
Aapen tej samharo aape | Tinau lok hank te kanpe ||
–
When you roar all the three worlds tremble and only you can control your might.
Bhoot pisach nikat nahi aave | Mahabir jab naam sunave ||
–
Great Brave on. Hanumanji's name keeps all the Ghosts, Demons & evils spirits away from his devotees.
Nase rog hare sab pira | Japat nirantar hanumat bira ||
–
On reciting Hanumanji's holy name regularly all the maladies perish the entire pain disappears.
Sankat se hanuman chhudaave | Man kram bachan dhyan jo lave ||
–
Those who rembember Hanumanji in thought, word and deed are well guarded against their odds in life.
Sab par ram tapasvi raja | Tinke kaaj sakal tum saja ||
–
Oh Hanumanji! You are the caretaker of even Lord Rama, who has been hailed as the Supreme Lord and the Monarch of all those devoted in penances.
Aur manorath jo koi laave | Soi amit jivan phal pave ||
–
Oh Hanumanji! You fulfill the desires of those who come to you and bestow the eternal nectar the highest fruit of life.
Charo yug parthap tumhara | Hai parsidh jagat ujiyara ||
–
Oh Hanumanji! You magnificent glory is acclaimed far and wide all through the four ages and your fame is radiantly noted all over the cosmos.
Sadhu sant ke tum rakhvare | Asur nikandan ram dulare ||
–
Oh Hanumanji! You are the saviour and the guardian angel of saints and sages and destroy all the Demons, you are the seraphic darling of Shri Ram.
Ashta sidhi nau nidhi ke data | Asa bar din janki mata ||
–
Hanumanji has been blessed with mother Janki to grant to any one any YOGIC power of eight Sidhis and Nava Nidhis as per choice.
Ram rasayan tumhare pasa | Sada raho raghupati ke dasa ||
–
Oh Hanumanji! You hold the essence of devotion to RAM, always remaining His Servant.
After few minutes of Silence, the Messenger started speaking;
"Bete!, Just like a spiritual aspirants who might get distracted by temptations of the world, Hanuman too felt he might get distracted by the mansions in the city of the Lanka with beautiful pillars made of crystal, dazzling beauty of the lavish structures. Hanuman realized his mission will be halted if he spends time in getting himself lost in the beauty of Lanka and ensured to keep his mind fixed in the goal. Hanuman searched every inch of Lanka fully and thoroughly in search of Sita".
"He didn't had Google at that time, Hahaha", I smiled....
My interruption certainly did not go well with the Messenger who just stopped talking immediately and closed his eyes.
Sensing my wrong humor sense in wrong place, I decided to curb my childish behaviour and waited for Him to speak.
After few minutes of silence, the Messenger started speaking again;
"Finally Hanuman's sincere efforts paid rich dividends and he found the Mother Sita in Ashoka Vana without any Google search", the Messenger said with a smile.
The smile from His face certainly made me to feel relax. May be he purposefully said that to make me feel happy sensing the tension that was building up inside me.
The Messenger then continued;
"Do you know why Hanuman loves the betel leaf garland? It was these leaves that covered and hid him while he was waiting to speak with Sita. They protected him in the Ashoka Vana, when Hanuman was watching all the pain & tribulations the Mother was going through in midst of Demons.
Hanuman was waiting patiently for an opportunity to speak with Sita.
When the opportunity presented itself, Hanuman jumps from the tree chanting Rama Rama not before dropping the ring given by Lord Rama as identification. The ring was made up of crystal which glows with the letters ‘Rama’ with the touch of Rama or Sita.
Realizing the Mother is still in doubt if the monkey form Hanuman is truly a Messenger sent by his Lord or was it another tricky game played by the Demons, Hanuman then uses his wisdom & Bhakti to bring trust in her.
After few great exchange of words filled with extreme love & devotion, Sita realizes that Hanuman is indeed a true Messenger sent by His Lord Ram. Sita, overwhelmed with happiness embraces the ring with affection.
Meanwhile, the demons who saw Hanuman in Ashoka Vana tries to hold him captive. Hanuman too showed His presence felt in Lanka by burning Lanka into Ashes and sending a strong warning to Ravana & his team during this encounter.
Hanuman before leaving Lanka, once again went to Ashoka Vana to get the assurance if the mother Sita is safe inspite of burning Lanka into ashes. He feels extremely satisfied to see the Mother Sita safe there.
Rejoicing, he bowed before her and said, "Oh mother! I have seen you safe and sound. This is your power and my good fortune. Now give me leave to go."
Sita says, "You are indeed a hero. For you there is nothing impossible. See that my lord comes here soon and lays low the Rakshasas and redeems me. I depend on you. You alone can achieve this."
"Be assured," said Hanuman. "Sugriva will soon be here with Rama and Lakshmana and the myriads of Vanaras. Ravana and his wicked hordes will perish. The happy prince will return with you to Ayodhya. Grieve No more".
The Mother blessed Hanuman and gave her Chudamani as identification when Hanuman meets her Lord back at Kishkinta.
Receiving the mother’s blessing, Hanuman flows back to the shore where all his army was waiting for him. Jambavantha had seen him from a distance and said that Anjaneya was returning with victory. Hanuman showed the Chudamani to all and had described the happenings in detail in proper sequence and without omission.
With tears in Hanuman eyes, he shares with them what a divinely precious soul Sita was and how nobly she had borne herself. Then he narrates how he destroyed the park and killed the Rakshasa warriors, how he was finally bound by Indrajit and produced before Ravana. He describes what took place at Ravana's courtyard and how as a punishment for his boldness of speech they set fire to his tail, furnishing him thereby with a great torch with which he set their city ablaze.
Hearing Hanuman's tales, all the Vanaras were in a very joyous mood. Praising & chanting Lord Rama & Sita, they all returned to Kishkinda to share this divine victory with Lord Rama.
Having said this, the Messenger once again closed this eyes. I could sense, He is just holding his presence for me and I know I can't hold him further. While he kept continuously chanting in a very feeble voice; Ram rasayan tumhare pasa | Sada raho raghupati ke dasa ||
I was just waiting for Him to open his eyes....
(to be concluded in next episode)
- 'Bansuri'
(Please note that the views expressed in this fictional story series are the views of the author's own imagination taking reference from various sources which includes but not limited to Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, Hanuman chalisa along with Swami Rama & Guruji Pattabhiram's teachings. If you find any text inappropriate, the author seeks humble apologies.Pic couresy: Internet)
