Nachiketa - Journey to Yama Puri (Varaha Puran)
•
1 like•1,054 views
Nachiketa's account of his sojourn to Yama Puri - i.e. to the Region of Lord of Death and Description of various Hells.
Report
Share
Report
Share
Download to read offline
Recommended
Ignorance and Covetousness
Ignorance is the spring of misery. Through ignorance one suffers afflictions and incurs great danger. Ignorance has its origin in covetousness. As covetousness grows, ignorance also grows. Ignorance exists there where covetousness exists.
Current COVID virus is a direct attack on the vital Link necessary for transfer of Energy to Form. Our willful engagement in the Greed-Deceit group of negative attributes at Shanks has given birth to this virus.
Life is going to be different post Corona. It is a message to the entire world that we must limit performance of our activity which is based on the Greed-Deceit group of negative attributes.
Disclaimer: This is the opinion of the writer. All are welcome to make further studies in this direction.
Women (p3 r 2) lord rama-narada
Brother, there are three evils most formidable of all: lust, anger and greed. The weapons of greed are desire and hypocrisy, of lust naught but woman; while anger’s weapon is harsh speech: so declare the great sages after deep thought. Woman is God's wonderful creation but to lust after her is not desirable.
Women (p3 r 1) ansuya-sita
Ansuya to Sita on Wifely Virtues from the Epic 'Ramayana' by Tulsi Das Ji. • The woman who deceives her husband and loves a paramour is cast for a hundred cycles into the worst hell known as Raurava. Who is as depraved as the woman who for the sake of a moment’s pleasure reckons not the torment that shall endure for a thousand million births?
Women (p2 mb 1) mahadev-uma
Lord Mahadev - Uma discourse on Women's Duties from the Epic 'Mahabharata'. Uma concludes: 'Maheshwara, I do not desire Heaven itself if thou art not satisfied with me'.
Women (p1 mb 2) sumana-sandili
A discourse on the excellent behaviour of good and chaste women and their power in the three worlds as revealed in the Epic 'Mahabharata'.
Women (p2 mb 2) husband-wife dharma
No man even in anger, should do anything that is disagreeable to his wife, seeing that happiness, joy and virtue, - everything depends on the wife. A wonderful discourse from the Epic 'Mahabharata'.
Women (p1 mb 3) women-no fault
Due to their natural disposition women cannot be regarded as offenders. It is the men who should be stained with guilt of any wrongdoing to women. A wonderful discourse from the Epic 'Mahabharata'.
Women (p1 mb 1) narada-panchachuda
Read carefully how women were tricked by 'gods' through Brahma. This from the Epic 'Mahabharata'.
Recommended
Ignorance and Covetousness
Ignorance is the spring of misery. Through ignorance one suffers afflictions and incurs great danger. Ignorance has its origin in covetousness. As covetousness grows, ignorance also grows. Ignorance exists there where covetousness exists.
Current COVID virus is a direct attack on the vital Link necessary for transfer of Energy to Form. Our willful engagement in the Greed-Deceit group of negative attributes at Shanks has given birth to this virus.
Life is going to be different post Corona. It is a message to the entire world that we must limit performance of our activity which is based on the Greed-Deceit group of negative attributes.
Disclaimer: This is the opinion of the writer. All are welcome to make further studies in this direction.
Women (p3 r 2) lord rama-narada
Brother, there are three evils most formidable of all: lust, anger and greed. The weapons of greed are desire and hypocrisy, of lust naught but woman; while anger’s weapon is harsh speech: so declare the great sages after deep thought. Woman is God's wonderful creation but to lust after her is not desirable.
Women (p3 r 1) ansuya-sita
Ansuya to Sita on Wifely Virtues from the Epic 'Ramayana' by Tulsi Das Ji. • The woman who deceives her husband and loves a paramour is cast for a hundred cycles into the worst hell known as Raurava. Who is as depraved as the woman who for the sake of a moment’s pleasure reckons not the torment that shall endure for a thousand million births?
Women (p2 mb 1) mahadev-uma
Lord Mahadev - Uma discourse on Women's Duties from the Epic 'Mahabharata'. Uma concludes: 'Maheshwara, I do not desire Heaven itself if thou art not satisfied with me'.
Women (p1 mb 2) sumana-sandili
A discourse on the excellent behaviour of good and chaste women and their power in the three worlds as revealed in the Epic 'Mahabharata'.
Women (p2 mb 2) husband-wife dharma
No man even in anger, should do anything that is disagreeable to his wife, seeing that happiness, joy and virtue, - everything depends on the wife. A wonderful discourse from the Epic 'Mahabharata'.
Women (p1 mb 3) women-no fault
Due to their natural disposition women cannot be regarded as offenders. It is the men who should be stained with guilt of any wrongdoing to women. A wonderful discourse from the Epic 'Mahabharata'.
Women (p1 mb 1) narada-panchachuda
Read carefully how women were tricked by 'gods' through Brahma. This from the Epic 'Mahabharata'.
Celibacy 4 - Right Company and Firm Decision
The sexual impulse has been there for countless lives, and you never know when it will rise again. Therefore, it is important to remain in the right company. If you go out of right company, because of the existing impulse, sexuality will start to sprout all over again.
What is nischaya (determined decision)? Nischaya means, no matter how powerful an army of worldly difficulties arises with attacks, you would not back off.
What is nischaya? It is to stop all other thoughts and come onto only one thought. If you make a firm decision, all the evidences will come together and make it happen. If your decision is not firm then the evidences will not come together and your goal will not be accomplished.
Celibacy 3 - Importance of Brahamacharya
True understanding is one that produces results. All other understanding is unfruitful.
Mind, intellect, chit and ego should remain in brahmacharya. And if mind, intellect, chit and ego turn towards brahmacharya, then the external sexuality will shed off automatically.
The illusion of sex is such that it will sink all, even the one who thinks that he has no attachment to anything in the world. This illusion of sex has sunk great sages and masters from tremendous spiritual heights.
Celibacy 2 - Means of Attaining Brahamacharya
In sexuality, the more a person enjoys it, the more he has a burning desire for it. By not getting involved in the sexual act, one may become uneasy and unsettled for a month or two. But it is not possible for a person enjoying sex to get rid of the desire for it.
In case of excessive intake of ice cream the vomiting is the inhibitor and the act was from outside. But in case of sex the motivation for act is from within. Sex is in the mind and it derives its power from Ignorance (Illusion, Maya) whose charge does not diminish. Repeated indulgence in sex does not appease one’s hunger for its enjoyment.
The research of the scriptures done by people in our country, has led to the discovery that the path of brahmacharya is the best inhibitor to control the desire of sex pleasure.
Celibacy 1 - The Detailed Analysis of Sexuality
Brahmacharya means control of the Veerya. The vital force or Veerya is preserved only by one who is established in the practice of Brahmacharya. The vital fluid or semen is lost and wasted during sexual indulgence.
From food comes juice or chyle; from chyle comes blood and flesh; from flesh comes fat; from fat comes bones; from bones come marrow. Lastly, from marrow comes semen.
The Veerya comes out of the very marrow concealed in the bones. It is found in a subtle state in all the cells of the body. Mark here how precious the semen is! It is the last essence of food. It is the essence of essences.
In Yoga Shastra it is stated: "The falling of semen brings death; the preservation of it gives life." 'The nemesis of reproduction is death. The sexual act is essentially katabolic (or a movement towards death) in the male, and in parturition of the offspring it is katabolic for the female.'
"The future is for the nations who are chaste". Tom Mann
ADS8 - On the Accomplishment of Wisdom
Listen! Rama, I am now telling you the secret of accomplishment. Of all the requisites for wisdom, Divine Grace is the most important. He who has entirely surrendered himself to the Goddess (Pure Consciousness by devotion through a true Guru) is sure to gain wisdom readily. Rama! This is the best of all the methods.
This method does not require other aids to reinforce its efficiency, as other methods do for accomplishing the end. This is hard for those whose minds are directed outward; and it is easy, sure and quick for devotees engrossed in the Goddess of the Self to the exclusion of all else.
ADS7 - Vidya Gita
My concrete form is the eternal couple - the Supreme Lord and Energy - always in undivided union and abiding as the eternal consciousness pervading the three phenomenal states of waking, dream and sleep, and reclining on the cot whose four legs are Brahma (the Creator), Vishnu (the Protector), Siva (the Destroyer) and Isvara (Disappearance) and whose surface is Sadasiva (Grace) which is contained in the mansion known as 'fulfilment of purpose' enclosed by the garden of 'Kadamba' trees in the jewel island situated in the wide ocean of nectar surrounding the cosmos and extending beyond.
|
Brahma, Vishnu, Siva, Isvara, Sadasiva, Ganesa, Skanda, the gods of the eight quarters, their energies, other gods, celestials, serpents and other superhuman beings are all manifestations of myself. However, people do not know ME because their intellect is shrouded in ignorance.
I grant boons to those who worship ME. There is no one besides ME worthy of worship or capable of fulfilling all desires.
ADS6 - Different States of the Wise (Jnanis)
What kind of effort can avail to disclose the eternally self-resplendent consciousness?
|
• Being coated with a thick crust of infinite vasanas (dispositions), it is not easily perceived.
• The incrustation must first be soaked in the running stream of mind control and carefully scraped off with the sharp chisel of investigation.
• Then one must turn the closed urn of crystal quartz - namely, the mind cleaned in the aforesaid manner - on the grinding wheel of alertness and finally open the lid with the lever of discrimination.
• Lo! The gem enclosed within is now reached and that is all!
Intellects are the cumulative effects of the predispositions acquired by karma. Effort is necessary so long as the predispositions continue to sway the intellect
ADS5 - On Self and Bondage
Diversity is visible only in space, and this space is in the Self, which in turn projects it at the moment when differentiation starts although it is not then clear. Rama! Look within.
|
• What you perceive as space within is the expanse wherein all creatures exist, and it forms their ‘Self’ or consciousness.
• What they look upon as space is your ‘Self’.
• Thus, the ‘Self’ in one is space in another, and vice versa.
• The same thing cannot differ in its nature.
• Therefore there is no difference between space and ‘Self’ - which is full and perfect Bliss-Consciousness.
The strongest fetter is the certainty that one is bound. It is as false as the fearful hallucinations of a frightened child. Even the best of men cannot find release by any amount of efforts unless his sense of bondage is destroyed.
ADS4 - The Way to Wisdom
An aspirant for wisdom first turns away from the pleasures of life and absorbs himself in the search for knowledge, which he learns from a master. This is hearsay knowledge.
In order to experience it, he ponders over it and clears his doubts. Then he applies the knowledge to himself and tries to feel his immortal being transcending the body, mind, etc., he succeeds in feeling his Self within.
Later he remembers the teaching imparted by his Guru that the Self being unqualified, cannot be differentiated from God and experiences his unity with the Universal Self. This is in short the course of wisdom and liberation.
ADS3 - On Method of Self-Realization
If you infer its eternal light, then closely investigate whether the light is of itself or not. Everybody fails in this investigation however learned and proficient he may be, because his mind is not bent inward but restlessly moves outward.
|
• As long as thoughts crop up, so long has the turning inward of the mind not been accomplished.
• As long as the mind is not inward, so long the Self cannot be realised.
• Turning inward means absence of desire.
• How can the mind be fixed within if desires are not given up?
Therefore become dispassionate and inhere as the Self. Such inherence is spontaneous (no effort is needed to inhere as the Self). It is realised after thoughts are eliminated and investigation ceases.
ADS2 - Cosmic Intelligence and Reality of the Universe
All that is seen has an origin and there must therefore be an antecedent cause for it.
If a thing can appear without a cause there is no relation between cause and effect, and there can be no harmony in the world. A potter's work may lead to a weaver's products, and vice versa, which is absurd. Each occurrence must have a cause for it; that is the rule.
The universe must have a Creator, and He must be an intelligent principle, but He cannot be of any known type because of the vastness of the creation. His power is past understanding and is dealt with in the Scriptures, whose authority is incontrovertible.
This whole universe consisting of the mobile and the immobile, arises from, abides in, and resolves into Him. This is the final and well-known conclusion of the Scriptures; and the Scriptures never err. The guide by which one can apprehend the metaphysical and transcendental matters is Scripture alone.
ADS1 - The Story of Hemalekha and Hemachuda
Investigation is the root-cause of all, and it is the first step to the supreme reward of indescribable bliss. How can anyone gain security without proper investigation? A deliberating man always shines over others. Brahma is great because of deliberation; Vishnu is worshipped because of it.
Association with the Wise Must Precede "Vichara" – Deliberation – Self-Enquiry. A man undoubtedly reaps the fruits of his company. I shall relate to you a story to illustrate this:
"There was once a king of Dasarna by name Muktachuda. He had two sons: Hemachuda and Manichuda. They were comely, well-behaved and well-learned. At one time they led a hunting party, consisting of a great retinue of men and warriors, into a deep forest which was infested with tigers, lions and other wild animals…
Fie on human beings who appraise the foulest part of the body as the most delightful. If one should see beauty in that body-part which is wet with impure excretions, where will not man see beauty? Tell me!
The Doctrine of Filial Duty - Teachings of Confucius
Then said Confucius: "The duty of children to their parents is the fountain whence all other virtues spring and also the starting-point from which we ought to begin our education:
• Our body and hair and skin are all derived from our parents, and therefore we have no right to injure any of them in the least. This is the first duty of a child.
• To live an upright life and to spread the great doctrines of humanity must win good reputation after death, and reflect great honour upon our parents. This is the last duty of a son.
Hence the first duty of a son is to pay a careful attention to every want of his parents. The next is to serve his government loyally; and the last to establish a good name for himself.”
Forgetful of our Promises to the Lord While in our Mother's Womb (GP-CH6)
"I am bewildered by Thy magic, as regards body and son and wife; misled by my egoism I am transmigrating, O Lord. I did good and evil actions for the sake of my dependents, and as a result I am tormented, while they who enjoy the fruits escape.
"If I am released from this womb I will lay myself at Thy feet, and I will take the means by which I may obtain liberation. Fallen into a well of faeces and urine, I am burnt by the fire of the belly, and anxious to escape from it. When shall I get out?
"In Him alone, who has given me this experience, and is compassionate to the afflicted, will I seek refuge. Let not this transmigration occur to me again.
"Because remaining even here in great misery, bearing the fatigue, resorting to Thy feet I will keep myself aloof from the worlds of change."
If the state of mind which arises in the womb, during illness, on the cremation ground, or upon hearing the Puranas were permanent - who would not be liberated from bondage!
Signs of Sins and Classes of Rebirth (GP-CH5)
The murderer of a Brahman becomes consumptive, the killer of a cow becomes hump-backed and imbecile, the murderer of a virgin becomes leprous, all three born as outcastes.
A poisoner becomes insane; an incendiary becomes bald; who sells flesh becomes unlucky; who eats flesh of other beings becomes diseased.
Who hates mother, father and teacher, who quarrels with sister and brother, is destroyed when an embryo in the womb, even for a thousand births.
The woman who abuses her mother-in-law and father-in-law, and causes constant quarrels; becomes a leech; and she who scolds her husband becomes a louse. Who, abandoning her own husband, runs after another man, becomes a flying-fox, a house-lizard, or a kind of female serpent.
YV BKII CH15 On Contentment (The Third Guard at the Door of Liberation)
Contentment (the third gate-keeper) is the chief good. Contentment is called (true) enjoyment, and the contented man, O destroyer of enemies, gets the best repose.
Whoever retains a contented mind amidst all the affairs of the world is never disturbed or dejected in adverse circumstances, O Rama.
An ungoverned mind, subject to desires and devoid of contentment, does not receive the light of knowledge, like a soiled mirror takes no reflection of the face.
He is called contented who does not long after what he does not possess, who enjoys what he has in its right manner, and who is always graceful in his manners.
YV BKII CH13 On Equanimity (The First Guard at the Door of Liberation)
By being unmindful of worldly affairs and regardless of all its excitements, the soul is filled with a joy resembling the ambrosial waters in the moon.
He who ceases to act his magical parts (in this playground of the earth) and desists from following his inclinations and childish pranks, shines forth in his spiritual light. Such are the powers gained from spiritual knowledge, and by no other means whatever.
Therefore a man should employ his reasoning powers during life to try to seek and know and adore the Supreme Soul. Lack of dignity, inextricable difficulties, and baseness and degeneracy are all the offspring of ignorance.
To liberate oneself from the miseries of the world, one must know the true nature of the soul, both from his teacher and the evidence of the scriptures, and also from friends like ourselves.
YV BKII CH12 The Greatness of True Knowledge
Rama, I honour you as one of a perfect mind. You know what to ask and you understand what is spoken to you. Therefore I will continue speaking to you respectfully.
Be still, keep your mind fixed in yourself, and attend to knowledge. Be free of pride and passions and incline yourself to pure truth. Whatever business or investigation someone undertakes, it must be brought to a happy conclusion that tends towards his peace and tranquillity.
One obtains the capacity for yoga by discussing the scriptures in the company of good people, which alone can provide us with the great charm of spiritual knowledge.
The journey of this world is delightful to one who, after the removal of his errors and dispersion of the cloud of his ignorance, has come to the knowledge of truth.
YV BKII CH11 On the Qualifications of Student and Teacher
They are reckoned as great and wise men whose detachment springs without cause (of detestation to the world) and whose minds are clear. They are esteemed as the best of men who, after judicious consideration of worldly troubles, apply themselves to detachment.
Without the remedy of right reason, the unceasing excitement of the senses and the fears and miseries of the world will continually disturb the mind. But the troubles of this world cannot afflict a wise man who knows the knowable and discerns all things; just as it is impossible for the flame of fire to burn wood drenched by rain.
O best of the eloquent, you must not receive instruction from one unacquainted with truth. Whoever asks such a person anything is the greatest of fools. He is the basest of men who does not carefully attend to the words of the truth-telling teacher who is asked about anything.
YV BKII CH10 Brahma Propounds the Knowledge of Liberation to Vashishtha
Let those who have great minds forsake their worldly desires in order to avoid future births and attend to these lectures with calm contentment.
In our Objective World no one gives us B.A.; M.A. or Ph.D. degrees without going to schools, colleges and universities and seeking help of our teachers.
How can someone guarantee us liberation which is the most difficult task and for which we have made no effort to even know the subject throughout our lifetime, leave aside the company of realized persons?
How the avatars or the Masters of the past can be of any use to us now? Only a living being can guide a living being. Liberation is only possible by following a liberated and not otherwise.
Jude: Practical Exhortations_Jude 17-23.pptx
In Jude 17-23 Jude shifts from piling up examples of false teachers from the Old Testament to a series of practical exhortations that flow from apostolic instruction. He preserves for us what may well have been part of the apostolic catechism for the first generation of Christ-followers. In these instructions Jude exhorts the believer to deal with 3 different groups of people: scoffers who are "devoid of the Spirit", believers who have come under the influence of scoffers and believers who are so entrenched in false teaching that they need rescue and pose some real spiritual risk for the rescuer. In all of this Jude emphasizes Jesus' call to rescue straying sheep, leaving the 99 safely behind and pursuing the 1.
More Related Content
More from Pardeep Sehgal
Celibacy 4 - Right Company and Firm Decision
The sexual impulse has been there for countless lives, and you never know when it will rise again. Therefore, it is important to remain in the right company. If you go out of right company, because of the existing impulse, sexuality will start to sprout all over again.
What is nischaya (determined decision)? Nischaya means, no matter how powerful an army of worldly difficulties arises with attacks, you would not back off.
What is nischaya? It is to stop all other thoughts and come onto only one thought. If you make a firm decision, all the evidences will come together and make it happen. If your decision is not firm then the evidences will not come together and your goal will not be accomplished.
Celibacy 3 - Importance of Brahamacharya
True understanding is one that produces results. All other understanding is unfruitful.
Mind, intellect, chit and ego should remain in brahmacharya. And if mind, intellect, chit and ego turn towards brahmacharya, then the external sexuality will shed off automatically.
The illusion of sex is such that it will sink all, even the one who thinks that he has no attachment to anything in the world. This illusion of sex has sunk great sages and masters from tremendous spiritual heights.
Celibacy 2 - Means of Attaining Brahamacharya
In sexuality, the more a person enjoys it, the more he has a burning desire for it. By not getting involved in the sexual act, one may become uneasy and unsettled for a month or two. But it is not possible for a person enjoying sex to get rid of the desire for it.
In case of excessive intake of ice cream the vomiting is the inhibitor and the act was from outside. But in case of sex the motivation for act is from within. Sex is in the mind and it derives its power from Ignorance (Illusion, Maya) whose charge does not diminish. Repeated indulgence in sex does not appease one’s hunger for its enjoyment.
The research of the scriptures done by people in our country, has led to the discovery that the path of brahmacharya is the best inhibitor to control the desire of sex pleasure.
Celibacy 1 - The Detailed Analysis of Sexuality
Brahmacharya means control of the Veerya. The vital force or Veerya is preserved only by one who is established in the practice of Brahmacharya. The vital fluid or semen is lost and wasted during sexual indulgence.
From food comes juice or chyle; from chyle comes blood and flesh; from flesh comes fat; from fat comes bones; from bones come marrow. Lastly, from marrow comes semen.
The Veerya comes out of the very marrow concealed in the bones. It is found in a subtle state in all the cells of the body. Mark here how precious the semen is! It is the last essence of food. It is the essence of essences.
In Yoga Shastra it is stated: "The falling of semen brings death; the preservation of it gives life." 'The nemesis of reproduction is death. The sexual act is essentially katabolic (or a movement towards death) in the male, and in parturition of the offspring it is katabolic for the female.'
"The future is for the nations who are chaste". Tom Mann
ADS8 - On the Accomplishment of Wisdom
Listen! Rama, I am now telling you the secret of accomplishment. Of all the requisites for wisdom, Divine Grace is the most important. He who has entirely surrendered himself to the Goddess (Pure Consciousness by devotion through a true Guru) is sure to gain wisdom readily. Rama! This is the best of all the methods.
This method does not require other aids to reinforce its efficiency, as other methods do for accomplishing the end. This is hard for those whose minds are directed outward; and it is easy, sure and quick for devotees engrossed in the Goddess of the Self to the exclusion of all else.
ADS7 - Vidya Gita
My concrete form is the eternal couple - the Supreme Lord and Energy - always in undivided union and abiding as the eternal consciousness pervading the three phenomenal states of waking, dream and sleep, and reclining on the cot whose four legs are Brahma (the Creator), Vishnu (the Protector), Siva (the Destroyer) and Isvara (Disappearance) and whose surface is Sadasiva (Grace) which is contained in the mansion known as 'fulfilment of purpose' enclosed by the garden of 'Kadamba' trees in the jewel island situated in the wide ocean of nectar surrounding the cosmos and extending beyond.
|
Brahma, Vishnu, Siva, Isvara, Sadasiva, Ganesa, Skanda, the gods of the eight quarters, their energies, other gods, celestials, serpents and other superhuman beings are all manifestations of myself. However, people do not know ME because their intellect is shrouded in ignorance.
I grant boons to those who worship ME. There is no one besides ME worthy of worship or capable of fulfilling all desires.
ADS6 - Different States of the Wise (Jnanis)
What kind of effort can avail to disclose the eternally self-resplendent consciousness?
|
• Being coated with a thick crust of infinite vasanas (dispositions), it is not easily perceived.
• The incrustation must first be soaked in the running stream of mind control and carefully scraped off with the sharp chisel of investigation.
• Then one must turn the closed urn of crystal quartz - namely, the mind cleaned in the aforesaid manner - on the grinding wheel of alertness and finally open the lid with the lever of discrimination.
• Lo! The gem enclosed within is now reached and that is all!
Intellects are the cumulative effects of the predispositions acquired by karma. Effort is necessary so long as the predispositions continue to sway the intellect
ADS5 - On Self and Bondage
Diversity is visible only in space, and this space is in the Self, which in turn projects it at the moment when differentiation starts although it is not then clear. Rama! Look within.
|
• What you perceive as space within is the expanse wherein all creatures exist, and it forms their ‘Self’ or consciousness.
• What they look upon as space is your ‘Self’.
• Thus, the ‘Self’ in one is space in another, and vice versa.
• The same thing cannot differ in its nature.
• Therefore there is no difference between space and ‘Self’ - which is full and perfect Bliss-Consciousness.
The strongest fetter is the certainty that one is bound. It is as false as the fearful hallucinations of a frightened child. Even the best of men cannot find release by any amount of efforts unless his sense of bondage is destroyed.
ADS4 - The Way to Wisdom
An aspirant for wisdom first turns away from the pleasures of life and absorbs himself in the search for knowledge, which he learns from a master. This is hearsay knowledge.
In order to experience it, he ponders over it and clears his doubts. Then he applies the knowledge to himself and tries to feel his immortal being transcending the body, mind, etc., he succeeds in feeling his Self within.
Later he remembers the teaching imparted by his Guru that the Self being unqualified, cannot be differentiated from God and experiences his unity with the Universal Self. This is in short the course of wisdom and liberation.
ADS3 - On Method of Self-Realization
If you infer its eternal light, then closely investigate whether the light is of itself or not. Everybody fails in this investigation however learned and proficient he may be, because his mind is not bent inward but restlessly moves outward.
|
• As long as thoughts crop up, so long has the turning inward of the mind not been accomplished.
• As long as the mind is not inward, so long the Self cannot be realised.
• Turning inward means absence of desire.
• How can the mind be fixed within if desires are not given up?
Therefore become dispassionate and inhere as the Self. Such inherence is spontaneous (no effort is needed to inhere as the Self). It is realised after thoughts are eliminated and investigation ceases.
ADS2 - Cosmic Intelligence and Reality of the Universe
All that is seen has an origin and there must therefore be an antecedent cause for it.
If a thing can appear without a cause there is no relation between cause and effect, and there can be no harmony in the world. A potter's work may lead to a weaver's products, and vice versa, which is absurd. Each occurrence must have a cause for it; that is the rule.
The universe must have a Creator, and He must be an intelligent principle, but He cannot be of any known type because of the vastness of the creation. His power is past understanding and is dealt with in the Scriptures, whose authority is incontrovertible.
This whole universe consisting of the mobile and the immobile, arises from, abides in, and resolves into Him. This is the final and well-known conclusion of the Scriptures; and the Scriptures never err. The guide by which one can apprehend the metaphysical and transcendental matters is Scripture alone.
ADS1 - The Story of Hemalekha and Hemachuda
Investigation is the root-cause of all, and it is the first step to the supreme reward of indescribable bliss. How can anyone gain security without proper investigation? A deliberating man always shines over others. Brahma is great because of deliberation; Vishnu is worshipped because of it.
Association with the Wise Must Precede "Vichara" – Deliberation – Self-Enquiry. A man undoubtedly reaps the fruits of his company. I shall relate to you a story to illustrate this:
"There was once a king of Dasarna by name Muktachuda. He had two sons: Hemachuda and Manichuda. They were comely, well-behaved and well-learned. At one time they led a hunting party, consisting of a great retinue of men and warriors, into a deep forest which was infested with tigers, lions and other wild animals…
Fie on human beings who appraise the foulest part of the body as the most delightful. If one should see beauty in that body-part which is wet with impure excretions, where will not man see beauty? Tell me!
The Doctrine of Filial Duty - Teachings of Confucius
Then said Confucius: "The duty of children to their parents is the fountain whence all other virtues spring and also the starting-point from which we ought to begin our education:
• Our body and hair and skin are all derived from our parents, and therefore we have no right to injure any of them in the least. This is the first duty of a child.
• To live an upright life and to spread the great doctrines of humanity must win good reputation after death, and reflect great honour upon our parents. This is the last duty of a son.
Hence the first duty of a son is to pay a careful attention to every want of his parents. The next is to serve his government loyally; and the last to establish a good name for himself.”
Forgetful of our Promises to the Lord While in our Mother's Womb (GP-CH6)
"I am bewildered by Thy magic, as regards body and son and wife; misled by my egoism I am transmigrating, O Lord. I did good and evil actions for the sake of my dependents, and as a result I am tormented, while they who enjoy the fruits escape.
"If I am released from this womb I will lay myself at Thy feet, and I will take the means by which I may obtain liberation. Fallen into a well of faeces and urine, I am burnt by the fire of the belly, and anxious to escape from it. When shall I get out?
"In Him alone, who has given me this experience, and is compassionate to the afflicted, will I seek refuge. Let not this transmigration occur to me again.
"Because remaining even here in great misery, bearing the fatigue, resorting to Thy feet I will keep myself aloof from the worlds of change."
If the state of mind which arises in the womb, during illness, on the cremation ground, or upon hearing the Puranas were permanent - who would not be liberated from bondage!
Signs of Sins and Classes of Rebirth (GP-CH5)
The murderer of a Brahman becomes consumptive, the killer of a cow becomes hump-backed and imbecile, the murderer of a virgin becomes leprous, all three born as outcastes.
A poisoner becomes insane; an incendiary becomes bald; who sells flesh becomes unlucky; who eats flesh of other beings becomes diseased.
Who hates mother, father and teacher, who quarrels with sister and brother, is destroyed when an embryo in the womb, even for a thousand births.
The woman who abuses her mother-in-law and father-in-law, and causes constant quarrels; becomes a leech; and she who scolds her husband becomes a louse. Who, abandoning her own husband, runs after another man, becomes a flying-fox, a house-lizard, or a kind of female serpent.
YV BKII CH15 On Contentment (The Third Guard at the Door of Liberation)
Contentment (the third gate-keeper) is the chief good. Contentment is called (true) enjoyment, and the contented man, O destroyer of enemies, gets the best repose.
Whoever retains a contented mind amidst all the affairs of the world is never disturbed or dejected in adverse circumstances, O Rama.
An ungoverned mind, subject to desires and devoid of contentment, does not receive the light of knowledge, like a soiled mirror takes no reflection of the face.
He is called contented who does not long after what he does not possess, who enjoys what he has in its right manner, and who is always graceful in his manners.
YV BKII CH13 On Equanimity (The First Guard at the Door of Liberation)
By being unmindful of worldly affairs and regardless of all its excitements, the soul is filled with a joy resembling the ambrosial waters in the moon.
He who ceases to act his magical parts (in this playground of the earth) and desists from following his inclinations and childish pranks, shines forth in his spiritual light. Such are the powers gained from spiritual knowledge, and by no other means whatever.
Therefore a man should employ his reasoning powers during life to try to seek and know and adore the Supreme Soul. Lack of dignity, inextricable difficulties, and baseness and degeneracy are all the offspring of ignorance.
To liberate oneself from the miseries of the world, one must know the true nature of the soul, both from his teacher and the evidence of the scriptures, and also from friends like ourselves.
YV BKII CH12 The Greatness of True Knowledge
Rama, I honour you as one of a perfect mind. You know what to ask and you understand what is spoken to you. Therefore I will continue speaking to you respectfully.
Be still, keep your mind fixed in yourself, and attend to knowledge. Be free of pride and passions and incline yourself to pure truth. Whatever business or investigation someone undertakes, it must be brought to a happy conclusion that tends towards his peace and tranquillity.
One obtains the capacity for yoga by discussing the scriptures in the company of good people, which alone can provide us with the great charm of spiritual knowledge.
The journey of this world is delightful to one who, after the removal of his errors and dispersion of the cloud of his ignorance, has come to the knowledge of truth.
YV BKII CH11 On the Qualifications of Student and Teacher
They are reckoned as great and wise men whose detachment springs without cause (of detestation to the world) and whose minds are clear. They are esteemed as the best of men who, after judicious consideration of worldly troubles, apply themselves to detachment.
Without the remedy of right reason, the unceasing excitement of the senses and the fears and miseries of the world will continually disturb the mind. But the troubles of this world cannot afflict a wise man who knows the knowable and discerns all things; just as it is impossible for the flame of fire to burn wood drenched by rain.
O best of the eloquent, you must not receive instruction from one unacquainted with truth. Whoever asks such a person anything is the greatest of fools. He is the basest of men who does not carefully attend to the words of the truth-telling teacher who is asked about anything.
YV BKII CH10 Brahma Propounds the Knowledge of Liberation to Vashishtha
Let those who have great minds forsake their worldly desires in order to avoid future births and attend to these lectures with calm contentment.
In our Objective World no one gives us B.A.; M.A. or Ph.D. degrees without going to schools, colleges and universities and seeking help of our teachers.
How can someone guarantee us liberation which is the most difficult task and for which we have made no effort to even know the subject throughout our lifetime, leave aside the company of realized persons?
How the avatars or the Masters of the past can be of any use to us now? Only a living being can guide a living being. Liberation is only possible by following a liberated and not otherwise.
More from Pardeep Sehgal (20)
ADS2 - Cosmic Intelligence and Reality of the Universe
ADS2 - Cosmic Intelligence and Reality of the Universe
The Doctrine of Filial Duty - Teachings of Confucius
The Doctrine of Filial Duty - Teachings of Confucius
Forgetful of our Promises to the Lord While in our Mother's Womb (GP-CH6)
Forgetful of our Promises to the Lord While in our Mother's Womb (GP-CH6)
YV BKII CH15 On Contentment (The Third Guard at the Door of Liberation)
YV BKII CH15 On Contentment (The Third Guard at the Door of Liberation)
YV BKII CH13 On Equanimity (The First Guard at the Door of Liberation)
YV BKII CH13 On Equanimity (The First Guard at the Door of Liberation)
YV BKII CH11 On the Qualifications of Student and Teacher
YV BKII CH11 On the Qualifications of Student and Teacher
YV BKII CH10 Brahma Propounds the Knowledge of Liberation to Vashishtha
YV BKII CH10 Brahma Propounds the Knowledge of Liberation to Vashishtha
Recently uploaded
Jude: Practical Exhortations_Jude 17-23.pptx
In Jude 17-23 Jude shifts from piling up examples of false teachers from the Old Testament to a series of practical exhortations that flow from apostolic instruction. He preserves for us what may well have been part of the apostolic catechism for the first generation of Christ-followers. In these instructions Jude exhorts the believer to deal with 3 different groups of people: scoffers who are "devoid of the Spirit", believers who have come under the influence of scoffers and believers who are so entrenched in false teaching that they need rescue and pose some real spiritual risk for the rescuer. In all of this Jude emphasizes Jesus' call to rescue straying sheep, leaving the 99 safely behind and pursuing the 1.
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptx
each chakra is studied in greater detail, several steps have been included to
strengthen your personal intention to open each chakra more fully. These are designed
to draw forth the highest benefit for your spiritual growth.
The Good News, newsletter for June 2024 is here
Our monthly newsletter is available to read online. We hope you will join us each Sunday in person for our worship service. Make sure to subscribe and follow us on YouTube and social media.
Exploring the Mindfulness Understanding Its Benefits.pptx
Slide 1: Title: Exploring the Mindfulness: Understanding Its Benefits
Slide 2: Introduction to Mindfulness
Mindfulness, defined as the conscious, non-judgmental observation of the present moment, has deep roots in Buddhist meditation practice but has gained significant popularity in the Western world in recent years. In today's society, filled with distractions and constant stimuli, mindfulness offers a valuable tool for regaining inner peace and reconnecting with our true selves. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a heightened awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, leading to a greater sense of clarity and presence in our daily lives.
Slide 3: Benefits of Mindfulness for Mental Well-being
Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improving overall quality of life.
Mindfulness increases awareness of our emotions and teaches us to manage them better, leading to improved mood.
Regular mindfulness practice can improve our ability to concentrate and focus our attention on the present moment.
Slide 4: Benefits of Mindfulness for Physical Health
Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can contribute to lowering blood pressure, which is beneficial for heart health.
Regular meditation and mindfulness practice can strengthen the immune system, aiding the body in fighting infections.
Mindfulness may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing stress and improving overall lifestyle habits.
Slide 5: Impact of Mindfulness on Relationships
Mindfulness can help us better understand others and improve communication, leading to healthier relationships.
By focusing on the present moment and being fully attentive, mindfulness helps build stronger and more authentic connections with others.
Mindfulness teaches us how to be present for others in difficult times, leading to increased compassion and understanding.
Slide 6: Mindfulness Techniques and Practices
Focusing on the breath and mindful breathing can be a simple way to enter a state of mindfulness.
Body scan meditation involves focusing on different parts of the body, paying attention to any sensations and feelings.
Practicing mindful walking and eating involves consciously focusing on each step or bite, with full attention to sensory experiences.
Slide 7: Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life
You can practice mindfulness in everyday activities such as washing dishes or taking a walk in the park.
Adding mindfulness practice to daily routines can help increase awareness and presence.
Mindfulness helps us become more aware of our needs and better manage our time, leading to balance and harmony in life.
Slide 8: Summary: Embracing Mindfulness for Full Living
Mindfulness can bring numerous benefits for physical and mental health.
Regular mindfulness practice can help achieve a fuller and more satisfying life.
Mindfulness has the power to change our perspective and way of perceiving the world, leading to deeper se
English - The Book of Joshua the Son of Nun.pdf
The Book of Joshua is the sixth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, and is the first book of the Deuteronomistic history, the story of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile.
Evangelization in the footsteps of Saint Vincent de Paul
Announcing the Good News of Salvation in the footsteps of Saint Vincent de Paul
Why is this So? ~ Do Seek to KNOW (English & Chinese).pptx
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma teaching of Kamma-Vipaka (Intentional Actions-Ripening Effects).
A Presentation for developing morality, concentration and wisdom and to spur us to practice the Dhamma diligently.
The texts are in English and Chinese.
Effective Techniques for Removing Negative Entities
Discover various methods for clearing negative entities from your space and spirit, including energy clearing techniques, spiritual rituals, and professional assistance. Gain practical knowledge on how to implement these techniques to restore peace and harmony. For more information visit here: https://www.reikihealingdistance.com/negative-entity-removal/
Twisters
2 Peter 3: Because some scriptures are hard to understand and some will force them to say things God never intended, Peter warns us to take care.
https://youtu.be/nV4kGHFsEHw
2. The Book of Psalms: Recognition of the kingship and sovereignty of God
2. The Book of Psalms: Recognition of the kingship and sovereignty of GodCOACH International Ministries
Recognition of the kingship and sovereignty of GodVertical Church Kyiv Report 2022-2023: Church at war
Please, join us in praising God for His incredible blessings!
Recently uploaded (17)
Kenneth Grant - Against the Light-Holmes Pub Grou Llc (1999).pdf
Kenneth Grant - Against the Light-Holmes Pub Grou Llc (1999).pdf
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptx
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptx
Exploring the Mindfulness Understanding Its Benefits.pptx
Exploring the Mindfulness Understanding Its Benefits.pptx
Hajj and umrah notes short procedure with important duas and translation
Hajj and umrah notes short procedure with important duas and translation
Evangelization in the footsteps of Saint Vincent de Paul
Evangelization in the footsteps of Saint Vincent de Paul
Why is this So? ~ Do Seek to KNOW (English & Chinese).pptx
Why is this So? ~ Do Seek to KNOW (English & Chinese).pptx
Effective Techniques for Removing Negative Entities
Effective Techniques for Removing Negative Entities
Tarot for Your Self A Workbook for Personal Transformation Second Edition (M...
Tarot for Your Self A Workbook for Personal Transformation Second Edition (M...
2. The Book of Psalms: Recognition of the kingship and sovereignty of God
2. The Book of Psalms: Recognition of the kingship and sovereignty of God
Vertical Church Kyiv Report 2022-2023: Church at war
Vertical Church Kyiv Report 2022-2023: Church at war
Nachiketa - Journey to Yama Puri (Varaha Puran)
- 1. Nachiketa’s Journey to Yama Puri (Varaha Puran)