Learning Through Reading

[1313]

With what feeling should we chant the Name of our beloved Lord? Today, Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this through a beautiful example.

When you repeat the Name, all the sweetness of the Form and the glory associated with it should arise in your memory, and just as your mouth fills with saliva when you recall a sweet dish you love, your mind should melt when contemplating the Name. Choose a Name that captivates your heart. Why pursue wealth if all the pleasure and satisfaction that wealth can provide, and even a hundred times more, can be obtained by dwelling on the Name? The Lord has said that wherever His Name is sung, “there I am present.” He establishes Himself there! He will not move from that place. Therefore, to win Him, all that is needed is the tongue—a tongue that speaks the language of pure reason. The Lord is a wish-fulfilling tree (kalpavriksha). You must approach Him and develop an attachment to Him. You must win His grace and always remain close to Him, restraining all the forces that draw you away from Him.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, April 29, 1963

The Name will purify both your mind and those who hear it. Keeping it on your tongue is like keeping a lamp lit on the doorstep leading into your home.
- BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">With what feeling should we chant the Name of our beloved Lord? Today, Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this through a beautiful example.<br /> <br /> When you repeat the Name, all the sweetness of the Form and the glory associated with it should arise in your memory, and just as your mouth fills with saliva when you recall a sweet dish you love, your mind should melt when contemplating the Name. Choose a Name that captivates your heart. Why pursue wealth if all the pleasure and satisfaction that wealth can provide, and even a hundred times more, can be obtained by dwelling on the Name? The Lord has said that wherever His Name is sung, “there I am present.” He establishes Himself there! He will not move from that place. Therefore, to win Him, all that is needed is the tongue—a tongue that speaks the language of pure reason. The Lord is a wish-fulfilling tree (kalpavriksha). You must approach Him and develop an attachment to Him. You must win His grace and always remain close to Him, restraining all the forces that draw you away from Him.<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> - Divine Discourse, April 29, 1963<br /> <br /> The Name will purify both your mind and those who hear it. Keeping it on your tongue is like keeping a lamp lit on the doorstep leading into your home.<br /> - BABA</div>

 

[1313]

What demonic trait should we strive to destroy within ourselves? Bhagawan lovingly tells us about this on the eve of the festival of lights—Deepavali.

The asuras (demons) have another name in Sanskrit—Naktanchara, one who wanders in darkness. This is a fair description of their miserable existence. They have no light to guide them; they are unaware that they are in darkness; they do not call out to the light; they know nothing about it. Their intellect has become a slave to passions and the senses instead of becoming their master. When, at last, truth appears before them and overwhelms them, they recognize the One and joyfully merge with it. The lamp is not merely a symbol of knowledge of Truth. It is also a symbol of the One, the Atma, which shines throughout all this diversity. Just as one lamp can light a thousand lamps, and the One will shine just as brightly despite thousands of lamps radiating its light, so the Atma (spirit-soul) illumines the jiva (individual “self”) and shines in them and through them without diminishing its splendor.
- Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, October 25, 1973

Without sorrow, it is impossible to know the value of happiness. Without darkness, it is impossible to appreciate the value of light.
- BABA.

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<div class="bbWrapper">What demonic trait should we strive to destroy within ourselves? Bhagawan lovingly tells us about this on the eve of the festival of lights—Deepavali.<br /> <br /> The asuras (demons) have another name in Sanskrit—Naktanchara, one who wanders in darkness. This is a fair description of their miserable existence. They have no light to guide them; they are unaware that they are in darkness; they do not call out to the light; they know nothing about it. Their intellect has become a slave to passions and the senses instead of becoming their master. When, at last, truth appears before them and overwhelms them, they recognize the One and joyfully merge with it. The lamp is not merely a symbol of knowledge of Truth. It is also a symbol of the One, the Atma, which shines throughout all this diversity. Just as one lamp can light a thousand lamps, and the One will shine just as brightly despite thousands of lamps radiating its light, so the Atma (spirit-soul) illumines the jiva (individual “self”) and shines in them and through them without diminishing its splendor.<br /> - Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, October 25, 1973<br /> <br /> Without sorrow, it is impossible to know the value of happiness. Without darkness, it is impossible to appreciate the value of light.<br /> - BABA.</div>

 

[1313]

What is the most important lesson that spiritual seekers can learn from small children? Today, Bhagavan lovingly inspires us.

The Puranas and epics teach the path of devotion and surrender to God. They urge people to perform all actions in a spirit of self-surrender. Allow the wind of doubt or the sun of despair to act upon the vessel of joy (ananda) you have filled, and it will quickly evaporate. Simply keep the vessel in the cool waters of good company and good deeds, and it will remain unchanged forever! Ananda also increases when you contemplate it in silence and enumerate the circumstances that led to it. That is why reflection (manana) is an important component of spiritual effort. Like a child who throws away his toys and begins to cry, you too must realise the utter worthlessness of the toys of fame and wealth and call out to Mother! The child feels that everything else is mere rubbish compared with the mother's love and the bliss of her presence. Do not strive for anything less!
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, July 2, 1966

Look upon God as an "old friend." There is no greater friend in the world than God.
- BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">What is the most important lesson that spiritual seekers can learn from small children? Today, Bhagavan lovingly inspires us.<br /> <br /> The Puranas and epics teach the path of devotion and surrender to God. They urge people to perform all actions in a spirit of self-surrender. Allow the wind of doubt or the sun of despair to act upon the vessel of joy (ananda) you have filled, and it will quickly evaporate. Simply keep the vessel in the cool waters of good company and good deeds, and it will remain unchanged forever! Ananda also increases when you contemplate it in silence and enumerate the circumstances that led to it. That is why reflection (manana) is an important component of spiritual effort. Like a child who throws away his toys and begins to cry, you too must realise the utter worthlessness of the toys of fame and wealth and call out to Mother! The child feels that everything else is mere rubbish compared with the mother's love and the bliss of her presence. Do not strive for anything less!<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> - Divine Discourse, July 2, 1966<br /> <br /> Look upon God as an "old friend." There is no greater friend in the world than God.<br /> - BABA</div>

 

[1313]

Why should we follow the spiritual practice of singing and chanting God's Name? Bhagavan inspires us as we all prepare for the Global Akhanda Bhajans.

Meditation, sacrifice, and worship were prescribed as the primary means of liberation in the Krita, Treta, and Dvapara Yugas, respectively. Namasmarana (remembrance of the Name) is the easiest path to liberation in this Kali Yuga. Therefore, people born in this Yuga are more fortunate than those who lived in the other three Yugas. But unfortunately, people today are unable to follow such a simple path. You cannot even sit steadily for a couple of minutes. Then how can there be any question of austerity? It is impossible. Therefore, take refuge in namasmarana. There is no greater sadhana than this. When you continuously chant the Divine Name, it drives out all your bad qualities. You can see for yourself how blissful you become when chanting the Divine Name. That is why God is called Ganalola and Ganapriya (a lover of music). The sage Narada always chants the Divine Name of Lord Narayana. This is his primary task. The Lord goes into ecstasy listening to his singing. There is so much bliss in singing. It captures the human heart so completely that one becomes immersed in ecstasy. That is why singing is considered the most valuable.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, July 12, 1996

Keep God's Name on your tongue, the Divine Form before your eyes, and Divine Glory in your heart—even lightning will pass you by safely.
- BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">Why should we follow the spiritual practice of singing and chanting God's Name? Bhagavan inspires us as we all prepare for the Global Akhanda Bhajans.<br /> <br /> Meditation, sacrifice, and worship were prescribed as the primary means of liberation in the Krita, Treta, and Dvapara Yugas, respectively. Namasmarana (remembrance of the Name) is the easiest path to liberation in this Kali Yuga. Therefore, people born in this Yuga are more fortunate than those who lived in the other three Yugas. But unfortunately, people today are unable to follow such a simple path. You cannot even sit steadily for a couple of minutes. Then how can there be any question of austerity? It is impossible. Therefore, take refuge in namasmarana. There is no greater sadhana than this. When you continuously chant the Divine Name, it drives out all your bad qualities. You can see for yourself how blissful you become when chanting the Divine Name. That is why God is called Ganalola and Ganapriya (a lover of music). The sage Narada always chants the Divine Name of Lord Narayana. This is his primary task. The Lord goes into ecstasy listening to his singing. There is so much bliss in singing. It captures the human heart so completely that one becomes immersed in ecstasy. That is why singing is considered the most valuable.<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> - Divine Discourse, July 12, 1996<br /> <br /> Keep God's Name on your tongue, the Divine Form before your eyes, and Divine Glory in your heart—even lightning will pass you by safely.<br /> - BABA</div>

 

[1313]

What is the significance of repeating the Name of God? Today, our loving Lord reminds us of this through highly illustrative examples.

Believe that the Lord’s Name is a boat that will carry you across the sea of worldly life. The Name is more effective than contemplating the Form. Draupadi did not send a chariot to bring Krishna for her rescue; she uttered His Name in agony, and Krishna responded and saved her from certain dishonour. In the "Ramayana," during the Treta Yuga, Nala and his monkeys were building a bridge across the sea to Lanka; they saw that the boulders on which the sacred name of Rama had been inscribed floated on the water, but drifted away because of the wind and waves. They did not form a continuous bridge for the army to cross. Someone resourceful suggested writing "RA" on one boulder and "MA" on another, and they discovered that the two stones locked firmly together. The Name will keep you afloat too; it will preserve your attachment to God and bring you His grace!
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
-Divine Discourse, October 24, 1965

Those crossing the ocean of samsara must master the art of swimming with the help of Bhagavat-chintana (contemplation of God).
- BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">What is the significance of repeating the Name of God? Today, our loving Lord reminds us of this through highly illustrative examples.<br /> <br /> Believe that the Lord’s Name is a boat that will carry you across the sea of worldly life. The Name is more effective than contemplating the Form. Draupadi did not send a chariot to bring Krishna for her rescue; she uttered His Name in agony, and Krishna responded and saved her from certain dishonour. In the "Ramayana," during the Treta Yuga, Nala and his monkeys were building a bridge across the sea to Lanka; they saw that the boulders on which the sacred name of Rama had been inscribed floated on the water, but drifted away because of the wind and waves. They did not form a continuous bridge for the army to cross. Someone resourceful suggested writing "RA" on one boulder and "MA" on another, and they discovered that the two stones locked firmly together. The Name will keep you afloat too; it will preserve your attachment to God and bring you His grace!<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> -Divine Discourse, October 24, 1965<br /> <br /> Those crossing the ocean of samsara must master the art of swimming with the help of Bhagavat-chintana (contemplation of God).<br /> - BABA</div>

 

[1313]

Why and how should we chant the Lord’s Name? Bhagavan lovingly explains this to us today, on the auspicious festival of Dipavali, the Festival of Lights!

Just as calcium tablets and vitamins are given to treat anaemia, tablets of repetition of the Name should be taken to cure mental anaemia and other ailments. There are throat lozenges that must be held in the mouth and slowly dissolved to relieve a cough; likewise, repeat the Name on your tongue and slowly absorb its taste to rid yourself of unpleasant outbursts of passions and emotions. Keep the Name on your tongue, and it will illuminate everything within and without. It will purify both your mind and the minds of those who hear this Name when you utter it. Keeping it on your tongue is like keeping a lamp lit on the doorstep at the entrance to your home. Repetition of the Name (Namasmarana) is the best spiritual discipline, the most beneficial and virtuous action. It is the highest prayer and the most effective spiritual exercise. Kuchela won the Lord’s grace in the same way. Fill the Name with your love whenever you repeat it; imbue it with devotion. This is the easiest path for all of you.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, April 29, 1963

The wealth gained from repeating the Lord’s name and meditation is good qualities (sadguna).
- BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">Why and how should we chant the Lord’s Name? Bhagavan lovingly explains this to us today, on the auspicious festival of Dipavali, the Festival of Lights!<br /> <br /> Just as calcium tablets and vitamins are given to treat anaemia, tablets of repetition of the Name should be taken to cure mental anaemia and other ailments. There are throat lozenges that must be held in the mouth and slowly dissolved to relieve a cough; likewise, repeat the Name on your tongue and slowly absorb its taste to rid yourself of unpleasant outbursts of passions and emotions. Keep the Name on your tongue, and it will illuminate everything within and without. It will purify both your mind and the minds of those who hear this Name when you utter it. Keeping it on your tongue is like keeping a lamp lit on the doorstep at the entrance to your home. Repetition of the Name (Namasmarana) is the best spiritual discipline, the most beneficial and virtuous action. It is the highest prayer and the most effective spiritual exercise. Kuchela won the Lord’s grace in the same way. Fill the Name with your love whenever you repeat it; imbue it with devotion. This is the easiest path for all of you.<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> - Divine Discourse, April 29, 1963<br /> <br /> The wealth gained from repeating the Lord’s name and meditation is good qualities (sadguna).<br /> - BABA</div>

 

[1313]

Where can we find the Lord’s footprints? What obstacles must we overcome in this search? Today, Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this.

The butter desired by the Lord is the fruit of yoga, the fruit of churning the mind with viveka (discrimination). He loves to feast and withdraws with it for solitary self-realisation. We too can know the Lord by His footprints; they can be found everywhere if we sincerely seek them with a trained eye. These footprints can be found wherever there is beauty, virtue, humility, justice, truth, love and peace! To discover the Lord’s footprints, we must train our vision, and to do this, we must master the mind. The mind is the basis of thoughts and feelings. It is the thinking aspect of Brahman, Absolute Consciousness. The Absolute Self, expressing itself in creative activity, is the mind. However, instead of turning to the Absolute, it turns outward and begins to use the senses as its instruments, forgetting its source—the Atman. How and why this happens is inexplicable; knowing that it happens, we can avoid and prevent it!
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
— Divine Discourse, 25 October 1966

The cause of all unhappiness and suffering is that your mind is not directed toward Divine Love.
— BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">Where can we find the Lord’s footprints? What obstacles must we overcome in this search? Today, Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this.<br /> <br /> The butter desired by the Lord is the fruit of yoga, the fruit of churning the mind with viveka (discrimination). He loves to feast and withdraws with it for solitary self-realisation. We too can know the Lord by His footprints; they can be found everywhere if we sincerely seek them with a trained eye. These footprints can be found wherever there is beauty, virtue, humility, justice, truth, love and peace! To discover the Lord’s footprints, we must train our vision, and to do this, we must master the mind. The mind is the basis of thoughts and feelings. It is the thinking aspect of Brahman, Absolute Consciousness. The Absolute Self, expressing itself in creative activity, is the mind. However, instead of turning to the Absolute, it turns outward and begins to use the senses as its instruments, forgetting its source—the Atman. How and why this happens is inexplicable; knowing that it happens, we can avoid and prevent it!<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> — Divine Discourse, 25 October 1966<br /> <br /> The cause of all unhappiness and suffering is that your mind is not directed toward Divine Love.<br /> — BABA</div>

 

[1313]

Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba tells us that we must “watch” our thoughts. Our thoughts can elevate or destroy us, because what we think is just as significant as what we do! Thoughts become words, which become actions. Actions develop into tendencies, and then into habits. Habits shape our character and determine our destiny!

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<div class="bbWrapper">Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba tells us that we must “watch” our thoughts. Our thoughts can elevate or destroy us, because what we think is just as significant as what we do! Thoughts become words, which become actions. Actions develop into tendencies, and then into habits. Habits shape our character and determine our destiny!</div>

 

[Удалённый пользователь 3194]

“If anything matters, then everything matters. Because you matter, everything you do matters too. Every time you forgive, the Universe changes; every time you touch someone’s heart or life, the world changes. Through every act of kindness and service, seen or unseen, my intentions are fulfilled, and nothing remains as it was.”

William Paul Young, “The Shack”

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<div class="bbWrapper">“If anything matters, then everything matters. Because you matter, everything you do matters too. Every time you forgive, the Universe changes; every time you touch someone’s heart or life, the world changes. Through every act of kindness and service, seen or unseen, my intentions are fulfilled, and nothing remains as it was.”<br /> <br /> William Paul Young, “The Shack”</div>

 

[1313]

Why should you experience fear or sorrow when the Lord is enthroned on the altar of your heart? Do you not know that He is there, protecting and guiding you? He is in all beings and at all times. Try to remember this whatever you do, whoever you associate with, and however you act. You will succeed in this if you do not stop repeating His Name. A griha (house) where the Lord’s Name is not heard is a guha (cave), and nothing more. When you enter it, when you leave it, and while you are in it, perfume it, illuminate it and purify it with His Name. Light it like a lamp at dusk; welcome it at dawn as you welcome the sun. This is true Deepavali, the festival of lamps.
— Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, 24 October 1965

Chanting the Lord’s Name should become an exercise in sharing joy and holiness with one another.
— BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">Why should you experience fear or sorrow when the Lord is enthroned on the altar of your heart? Do you not know that He is there, protecting and guiding you? He is in all beings and at all times. Try to remember this whatever you do, whoever you associate with, and however you act. You will succeed in this if you do not stop repeating His Name. A griha (house) where the Lord’s Name is not heard is a guha (cave), and nothing more. When you enter it, when you leave it, and while you are in it, perfume it, illuminate it and purify it with His Name. Light it like a lamp at dusk; welcome it at dawn as you welcome the sun. This is true Deepavali, the festival of lamps.<br /> — Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, 24 October 1965<br /> <br /> Chanting the Lord’s Name should become an exercise in sharing joy and holiness with one another.<br /> — BABA</div>

 

[1313]

What power do we all need to develop and strengthen, and what should we do for this? Today, Bhagawan gently explains this to us.

A person should have good thoughts. Desires arise from thoughts. These desires fetter and bind us. Willpower (ichchha-shakti) also arises from thoughts. It is very important as the life principle of humanity. All other powers, such as the power of intellect, understanding, determination, speech, and so on, flow from it. This willpower is like the king of all other powers. It will lead a person along the sacred path if used correctly. Conversely, when willpower is misused, a person becomes unrighteous. Willpower influences thoughts, and thoughts influence willpower. Bad thoughts weaken willpower. As willpower weakens, desires become stronger and stronger. Let me give a small example. Suppose a person has the habit of drinking too much coffee or tea, smoking cigarettes, and so on. Harmful habits will, of course, weaken his willpower. If he has 20 such harmful habits and gives up one habit after another, his willpower will become stronger and stronger. — Divine Discourse, 7 April 1993

As you develop your willpower and reduce your desires, your power of discrimination will also increase.

— Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">What power do we all need to develop and strengthen, and what should we do for this? Today, Bhagawan gently explains this to us.<br /> <br /> A person should have good thoughts. Desires arise from thoughts. These desires fetter and bind us. Willpower (ichchha-shakti) also arises from thoughts. It is very important as the life principle of humanity. All other powers, such as the power of intellect, understanding, determination, speech, and so on, flow from it. This willpower is like the king of all other powers. It will lead a person along the sacred path if used correctly. Conversely, when willpower is misused, a person becomes unrighteous. Willpower influences thoughts, and thoughts influence willpower. Bad thoughts weaken willpower. As willpower weakens, desires become stronger and stronger. Let me give a small example. Suppose a person has the habit of drinking too much coffee or tea, smoking cigarettes, and so on. Harmful habits will, of course, weaken his willpower. If he has 20 such harmful habits and gives up one habit after another, his willpower will become stronger and stronger. — Divine Discourse, 7 April 1993<br /> <br /> As you develop your willpower and reduce your desires, your power of discrimination will also increase.<br /> <br /> — Baba</div>

 

[1313]

What truths about the physical body should we acknowledge and never forget? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this today.

Human life is ephemeral, like a water bubble. No one knows when this bubble may burst. People become disappointed with life because they consider the body permanent. Therefore, the Upanishads call upon everyone: "Arise! Awake! Do not stop until you reach the goal." They urge us to awaken from the slumber of ignorance, behold the rising sun of wisdom (prajnana), and uphold our humanity. Although people today study the Vedas, engage in spiritual practices, acquire scientific knowledge, and conduct investigations and research, they cannot understand who they are. They face many problems because they do not understand their own true nature. You are not merely a human being, although you have a human body. Your true nature is the Atma residing in a human body. Therefore, as far as the body is concerned, you are simply human, but from the standpoint of the Atma, you are divine. The body is the temple of God. Consider the body a temple. When can the body be called a temple? It can be called a temple when God resides in it. Without God, it cannot be a temple. Thus, God is present in this body in the form of the eternal Atma. — Divine Discourse, 7 April 1993

The body is sacred because God dwells in it. Therefore, you should use the body to perform good deeds.

— Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">What truths about the physical body should we acknowledge and never forget? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this today.<br /> <br /> Human life is ephemeral, like a water bubble. No one knows when this bubble may burst. People become disappointed with life because they consider the body permanent. Therefore, the Upanishads call upon everyone: "Arise! Awake! Do not stop until you reach the goal." They urge us to awaken from the slumber of ignorance, behold the rising sun of wisdom (prajnana), and uphold our humanity. Although people today study the Vedas, engage in spiritual practices, acquire scientific knowledge, and conduct investigations and research, they cannot understand who they are. They face many problems because they do not understand their own true nature. You are not merely a human being, although you have a human body. Your true nature is the Atma residing in a human body. Therefore, as far as the body is concerned, you are simply human, but from the standpoint of the Atma, you are divine. The body is the temple of God. Consider the body a temple. When can the body be called a temple? It can be called a temple when God resides in it. Without God, it cannot be a temple. Thus, God is present in this body in the form of the eternal Atma. — Divine Discourse, 7 April 1993<br /> <br /> The body is sacred because God dwells in it. Therefore, you should use the body to perform good deeds.<br /> <br /> — Baba</div>

 

[1313]

For millennia, people have unsuccessfully tried to understand where the Cosmos came from and how it came into being. If it had a Personal cause, everything would be clear, but the Cosmos, or Jagat, is not a material object. Questions such as “How did it come into being?” or “Where did it come from?” are similar to the question, “How did a rope take the form of a snake, and how does it inspire terror?” There is only a rope, but a snake is perceived in its place by the dull human mind. In other words, this is an illusion inspired by the Mind. The basis of this misunderstanding is ignorance.

Brahman is “the rope,” while Jagat is “the snake” perceived in place of the rope due to the illusion of the Mind. We know Brahman as Jagat. We mistake one for the other. Therefore, it is better to consider Jagat an object produced in our own Buddhi (Mind) as a result of erroneous perception. An object produced by such an illusion and instability of mind cannot be real. When the illusion dissolves, when instability disappears, Jagat also vanishes.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba
From the book: “SATHYA SAI VAHINI”

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<div class="bbWrapper">For millennia, people have unsuccessfully tried to understand where the Cosmos came from and how it came into being. If it had a Personal cause, everything would be clear, but the Cosmos, or Jagat, is not a material object. Questions such as “How did it come into being?” or “Where did it come from?” are similar to the question, “How did a rope take the form of a snake, and how does it inspire terror?” There is only a rope, but a snake is perceived in its place by the dull human mind. In other words, this is an illusion inspired by the Mind. The basis of this misunderstanding is ignorance.<br /> <br /> Brahman is “the rope,” while Jagat is “the snake” perceived in place of the rope due to the illusion of the Mind. We know Brahman as Jagat. We mistake one for the other. Therefore, it is better to consider Jagat an object produced in our own Buddhi (Mind) as a result of erroneous perception. An object produced by such an illusion and instability of mind cannot be real. When the illusion dissolves, when instability disappears, Jagat also vanishes.<br /> <br /> Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> <img class="smilie smilie--emoji" alt="📙" title="Orange book :orange_book:" src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/joypixels/emoji-assets@5.0/png/64/1f4d9.png" data-shortname=":orange_book:" />From the book: “SATHYA SAI VAHINI”</div>

 

[1313]

What should we be grateful for, and what should we work on as people sincerely seeking spirituality? Bhagavan, our loving Lord, reminds us of this today in crystal-clear terms.

A person stands knee-deep in the Ganges or Godavari and recites hymns praising the river. He lifts the sacred river water in his palms and pours it back as an offering to the deity embodied by the river. This water flows back into itself—a gift from God to God! This is all that a person is capable of; this is all they need to do. God has endowed you with this beautiful body, this sweet-speaking tongue, and this amazing instrument called the mind! He has endowed you with intelligence, the ability to analyze and generalize, and the capacity to receive and give, remember and forget. Accept these gifts with gratitude and use them to the greatest benefit. Use them to see Him in all beings, to seek Him in all the ups and downs, joys and sorrows, doubts and decisions—in all manifestations of life. These dual manifestations result from fluctuations of the mind. The mind revels in the diversity of names and forms, but it must be trained to recognize and rejoice in unity!
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, November 22, 1970

The feeling of ego separates a person from God. When a person surrenders everything to God, this barrier of ego is removed.
- Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">What should we be grateful for, and what should we work on as people sincerely seeking spirituality? Bhagavan, our loving Lord, reminds us of this today in crystal-clear terms.<br /> <br /> A person stands knee-deep in the Ganges or Godavari and recites hymns praising the river. He lifts the sacred river water in his palms and pours it back as an offering to the deity embodied by the river. This water flows back into itself—a gift from God to God! This is all that a person is capable of; this is all they need to do. God has endowed you with this beautiful body, this sweet-speaking tongue, and this amazing instrument called the mind! He has endowed you with intelligence, the ability to analyze and generalize, and the capacity to receive and give, remember and forget. Accept these gifts with gratitude and use them to the greatest benefit. Use them to see Him in all beings, to seek Him in all the ups and downs, joys and sorrows, doubts and decisions—in all manifestations of life. These dual manifestations result from fluctuations of the mind. The mind revels in the diversity of names and forms, but it must be trained to recognize and rejoice in unity!<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> - Divine Discourse, November 22, 1970<br /> <br /> The feeling of ego separates a person from God. When a person surrenders everything to God, this barrier of ego is removed.<br /> - Baba</div>

 

[1313]

Why should we be attentive to every thought, word, and action of ours? Bhagavan explains this to us today with love and in a vivid way.

Know that everything you feel or do is an offering to God, flowing directly to God. Therefore, be careful. Do not offer bad thoughts, words, and actions that He will not accept. Instead, offer what is holy and pure. This is your duty. It will ensure self-satisfaction. Self-satisfaction paves the way to self-sacrifice, and self-sacrifice leads to self-realization. The foundation of everything is faith. Self-satisfaction, self-sacrifice, and self-realization all depend on faith. Faith determines aspiration, aspiration determines the result, and action determines the attainable level. For the sincerity of an action contributes to the purity of the path, the purity of the path ensures the truth of wisdom, and true wisdom is Divinity itself. A person’s actions, behavior, and entire way of life—all of this must be organized and elevated. How can a mind burdened by desires become peaceful? How can it make a sacrifice? Therefore, a person should engage only in actions that promote detachment and renunciation!
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, November 23, 1984

One who is filled with Divine Love is fearless, demands nothing from others, and expresses their love spontaneously and selflessly.
- Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">Why should we be attentive to every thought, word, and action of ours? Bhagavan explains this to us today with love and in a vivid way.<br /> <br /> Know that everything you feel or do is an offering to God, flowing directly to God. Therefore, be careful. Do not offer bad thoughts, words, and actions that He will not accept. Instead, offer what is holy and pure. This is your duty. It will ensure self-satisfaction. Self-satisfaction paves the way to self-sacrifice, and self-sacrifice leads to self-realization. The foundation of everything is faith. Self-satisfaction, self-sacrifice, and self-realization all depend on faith. Faith determines aspiration, aspiration determines the result, and action determines the attainable level. For the sincerity of an action contributes to the purity of the path, the purity of the path ensures the truth of wisdom, and true wisdom is Divinity itself. A person’s actions, behavior, and entire way of life—all of this must be organized and elevated. How can a mind burdened by desires become peaceful? How can it make a sacrifice? Therefore, a person should engage only in actions that promote detachment and renunciation!<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> - Divine Discourse, November 23, 1984<br /> <br /> One who is filled with Divine Love is fearless, demands nothing from others, and expresses their love spontaneously and selflessly.<br /> - Baba</div>

 

[1313]

Remember that your enemy is your best friend!
Your enemy insults and berates you; in doing so, they take upon themselves part of your sins.
Whatever punishment you were destined to suffer, it will be suffered by the one who insults you.
A friend praises you and takes a share of your merits.
The more they extol you, the more merits you lose.
Those who berate you take upon themselves your sins, while those who praise you take your merits; in the end, nothing remains for you.
Always remember this!

Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">Remember that your enemy is your best friend!<br /> Your enemy insults and berates you; in doing so, they take upon themselves part of your sins.<br /> Whatever punishment you were destined to suffer, it will be suffered by the one who insults you.<br /> A friend praises you and takes a share of your merits.<br /> The more they extol you, the more merits you lose.<br /> Those who berate you take upon themselves your sins, while those who praise you take your merits; in the end, nothing remains for you.<br /> Always remember this!<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

How should we respond when our faith is challenged by those who do not believe in God? Bhagawan, the Cosmic Director, lovingly guides us today.

The conflict between those who accept God and those who reject Him, those who claim that God can be found here or there, and those who assert that He cannot be found anywhere is endless! In this situation, remember that just as there is no need to awaken someone who is already awake, and it is easy to awaken someone who is asleep, we cannot awaken a person who does not wish to wake up, no matter how hard we try! Those who do not know can be taught what they do not know through simple examples. But those who suffer from half-knowledge and take pride in this acquisition are not open to any further teaching!
Two eyes provide a view of the boundless expanse, but they cannot see the face on which they are located! They are an important instrument of the body, but they cannot see the body in its entirety. When you want to see your face and your back, you must hold one mirror in front of you and another behind you; then, in the front mirror, you will see the reflection of your back! In the same way, when you wish to know your Reality (face) and your future (back), you must place the mirror of “faith in the Self” (Atma-vishwasa — translator’s note) in front of you and the mirror of Divine Grace behind you! Without these two, claiming that you know your Reality or your destiny is pure fantasy.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, November 23, 1976

A fully blossomed flower is theism; a bud is atheism. Both are one. One is asleep, the other is awake.
- Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">How should we respond when our faith is challenged by those who do not believe in God? Bhagawan, the Cosmic Director, lovingly guides us today.<br /> <br /> The conflict between those who accept God and those who reject Him, those who claim that God can be found here or there, and those who assert that He cannot be found anywhere is endless! In this situation, remember that just as there is no need to awaken someone who is already awake, and it is easy to awaken someone who is asleep, we cannot awaken a person who does not wish to wake up, no matter how hard we try! Those who do not know can be taught what they do not know through simple examples. But those who suffer from half-knowledge and take pride in this acquisition are not open to any further teaching!<br /> Two eyes provide a view of the boundless expanse, but they cannot see the face on which they are located! They are an important instrument of the body, but they cannot see the body in its entirety. When you want to see your face and your back, you must hold one mirror in front of you and another behind you; then, in the front mirror, you will see the reflection of your back! In the same way, when you wish to know your Reality (face) and your future (back), you must place the mirror of “faith in the Self” (Atma-vishwasa — translator’s note) in front of you and the mirror of Divine Grace behind you! Without these two, claiming that you know your Reality or your destiny is pure fantasy.<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> - Divine Discourse, November 23, 1976<br /> <br /> A fully blossomed flower is theism; a bud is atheism. Both are one. One is asleep, the other is awake.<br /> - Baba</div>

 

[1313]

What should our Sadhana be directed toward? Bhagawan lovingly explains to us today.

Shadows are numerous and diverse, although the Light is One. When the One reflects Himself in the many—in the multitude of jivas—He manifests as the Self in each one; the Self that observes, untouched by anything, as a witness. The Atma (Divine Self) is Eternal. This Self is Truth. However, because it is enclosed in flesh, bones, and skin, a person is deceived into believing that the outer shell, rather than the inner essence, is the source of bliss. Therefore, a person’s foremost duty to oneself is to penetrate these coverings and absorb the supreme bliss that only one’s Atmic essence can bestow. For their own sake, everyone should strive to attain that unifying principle which is their inner treasure. Of all sadhanas (spiritual practices), the process of attaining this closeness is the most important. For sadhana means striving and making efforts to attain the desired object. Actions devoid of Truth do not deserve to be called sadhana. The Atma is the Universal Eternal Truth, and therefore it cannot be attained by seeking it in the concrete and temporary world. The Divine shines in your heart, and it can be attained only there.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, November 23, 1984

As long as a person is under the sway of sensual pleasures, it cannot be said that their spiritual life has begun at all.
- Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">What should our Sadhana be directed toward? Bhagawan lovingly explains to us today.<br /> <br /> Shadows are numerous and diverse, although the Light is One. When the One reflects Himself in the many—in the multitude of jivas—He manifests as the Self in each one; the Self that observes, untouched by anything, as a witness. The Atma (Divine Self) is Eternal. This Self is Truth. However, because it is enclosed in flesh, bones, and skin, a person is deceived into believing that the outer shell, rather than the inner essence, is the source of bliss. Therefore, a person’s foremost duty to oneself is to penetrate these coverings and absorb the supreme bliss that only one’s Atmic essence can bestow. For their own sake, everyone should strive to attain that unifying principle which is their inner treasure. Of all sadhanas (spiritual practices), the process of attaining this closeness is the most important. For sadhana means striving and making efforts to attain the desired object. Actions devoid of Truth do not deserve to be called sadhana. The Atma is the Universal Eternal Truth, and therefore it cannot be attained by seeking it in the concrete and temporary world. The Divine shines in your heart, and it can be attained only there.<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> - Divine Discourse, November 23, 1984<br /> <br /> As long as a person is under the sway of sensual pleasures, it cannot be said that their spiritual life has begun at all.<br /> - Baba</div>

 

[1313]

We all marvel at the many miracles performed by Bhagavan, which we have heard about or witnessed. But what is their purpose? Bhagavan Himself explains this so that we may derive true benefit from them.

The miracles and signs that I manifest are given names that do not correspond to their purpose or effect. They may be called chamatkara (miracles), which lead to samskara (purification), which in turn inspire a person to engage in paropakara (helping others) and finally lead to sakshatkara (divine vision). Chamatkara is any action that attracts through its inexplicability. This aspect of attraction is the very nature of the Avatar. The name Rama itself means: “One who brings joy or causes delight.” Krishna means: “One who attracts and draws others to Himself.” This quality of attractiveness is a distinctive mark of Divinity. Why does the Divine attract? Is it to deceive or mislead? No. It is transformation, reconstruction and reformation—a process called samskara. What is the purpose of transformation? To make a person useful to society, erase his ego and establish in him the unity of all beings in God. A person who has undergone samskara becomes a humble servant of those who need help. This is the stage of paropakara. Service of this kind, performed with reverence and selflessness, prepares a person to realize the One pervading the many. The final stage is Sakshatkara.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
—Divine Discourse, November 23, 1976

Control the mind, control your behavior, keep your heart peaceful and pure, and then you will attain the grace of God.
—Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">We all marvel at the many miracles performed by Bhagavan, which we have heard about or witnessed. But what is their purpose? Bhagavan Himself explains this so that we may derive true benefit from them.<br /> <br /> The miracles and signs that I manifest are given names that do not correspond to their purpose or effect. They may be called chamatkara (miracles), which lead to samskara (purification), which in turn inspire a person to engage in paropakara (helping others) and finally lead to sakshatkara (divine vision). Chamatkara is any action that attracts through its inexplicability. This aspect of attraction is the very nature of the Avatar. The name Rama itself means: “One who brings joy or causes delight.” Krishna means: “One who attracts and draws others to Himself.” This quality of attractiveness is a distinctive mark of Divinity. Why does the Divine attract? Is it to deceive or mislead? No. It is transformation, reconstruction and reformation—a process called samskara. What is the purpose of transformation? To make a person useful to society, erase his ego and establish in him the unity of all beings in God. A person who has undergone samskara becomes a humble servant of those who need help. This is the stage of paropakara. Service of this kind, performed with reverence and selflessness, prepares a person to realize the One pervading the many. The final stage is Sakshatkara.<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> —Divine Discourse, November 23, 1976<br /> <br /> Control the mind, control your behavior, keep your heart peaceful and pure, and then you will attain the grace of God.<br /> —Baba</div>

 

[1313]

Because of mental weakness and ignorance, some people try to avoid painful experiences. Do not be weak; be brave and welcome difficulties. Let them come—and the more, the better.
Only with such a courageous attitude can you develop patience and become even stronger. Can you move on to the next class if you have not passed the exam? Only when you receive the appropriate grades and pass the exam can you advance to the next class.
While preparing for an exam, you experience intense stress and many difficulties, but what a sweet reward you receive!
Therefore, welcome difficulties as tests preparing you for higher stages, and rejoice when problems come your way.

Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">Because of mental weakness and ignorance, some people try to avoid painful experiences. Do not be weak; be brave and welcome difficulties. Let them come—and the more, the better.<br /> Only with such a courageous attitude can you develop patience and become even stronger. Can you move on to the next class if you have not passed the exam? Only when you receive the appropriate grades and pass the exam can you advance to the next class.<br /> While preparing for an exam, you experience intense stress and many difficulties, but what a sweet reward you receive!<br /> Therefore, welcome difficulties as tests preparing you for higher stages, and rejoice when problems come your way.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba</div>