Learning Through Reading

[1313]

Learn to perform good deeds through your body and contemplate good things in your mind. Cultivate virtuous thoughts and perform good deeds. Sometimes people ask: “Yes, we should love everyone and each person, but what should we do if another person hates us despite the fact that we love them very much?” Why should it concern you whether others reciprocate your feelings or not? Your duty is to make sure that you do not stray from the right path. If you also feel hatred, how can you claim that you are still good? Do your utmost to influence others and transform them; do not stray from the path of virtue. I will give you an example from my own experience: I love everyone, even those who do not love Me. I do not ask whether they love Me or not. We must examine whether our love is pure. There is no room for hatred in Me at all. People who do not feel affection for Me also come to Me when a need arises and bow before Me. To go deeper within and experience true love, you must cast aside all considerations related to the body and develop the vision of Unity (Atma drishti).

Sathya Sai Baba
Summer Showers 1978 in Brindavan, Ch. 15.

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<div class="bbWrapper">Learn to perform good deeds through your body and contemplate good things in your mind. Cultivate virtuous thoughts and perform good deeds. Sometimes people ask: “Yes, we should love everyone and each person, but what should we do if another person hates us despite the fact that we love them very much?” Why should it concern you whether others reciprocate your feelings or not? Your duty is to make sure that you do not stray from the right path. If you also feel hatred, how can you claim that you are still good? Do your utmost to influence others and transform them; do not stray from the path of virtue. I will give you an example from my own experience: I love everyone, even those who do not love Me. I do not ask whether they love Me or not. We must examine whether our love is pure. There is no room for hatred in Me at all. People who do not feel affection for Me also come to Me when a need arises and bow before Me. To go deeper within and experience true love, you must cast aside all considerations related to the body and develop the vision of Unity (Atma drishti).<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Summer Showers 1978 in Brindavan, Ch. 15.</div>

 

[1313]

Everything you see is a reflection of what is within you. If you call someone bad, it means that the evil within you is being reflected in that person. That person has nothing to do with the evil. Good and bad are reflections of your inner being. Never think that they exist separately from you. Good thoughts are the source of good vibrations. If you are filled with love, that same principle of love will manifest in your speech and actions. If you have sacred thoughts, you will become a Divine being.

Sathya Sai Baba
March 18, 1999
"The Power of Will and Intention."

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<div class="bbWrapper">Everything you see is a reflection of what is within you. If you call someone bad, it means that the evil within you is being reflected in that person. That person has nothing to do with the evil. Good and bad are reflections of your inner being. Never think that they exist separately from you. Good thoughts are the source of good vibrations. If you are filled with love, that same principle of love will manifest in your speech and actions. If you have sacred thoughts, you will become a Divine being.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> March 18, 1999<br /> "The Power of Will and Intention."</div>

 

[1313]

Since ancient times, the people of India have celebrated Navaratri, worshipping Devi, Divinity as Mother. During these ten days, they revere the goddesses Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. Their esoteric significance lies in the three powers (shaktis): action (karma), devotion (upasana) and spiritual wisdom (jnana).

It is necessary to correctly understand the inner meaning embodied by Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. They represent three types of human power: the power of will (iccha shakti), the power of purposeful action (kriya shakti) and the power of discrimination (jnana shakti).

Saraswati represents the power of speech (vak) in a person. Durga represents dynamic powers. Lakshmi manifests as the power of will. The body is intended for purposeful action (kriya shakti). The mind is the repository of the power of will (iccha shakti). The Atma is the power of discrimination (jnana shakti).

Purposeful action arises from the physical body. The power that activates the inert body and impels it to act is the power of will. The power that impels the power of will to act is the power of discrimination (jnana shakti). Through it, energy radiates. These three powers are represented in the mantra “Om Bhur Bhuvah Suvaha.” Bhur represents the earth. Bhuvah represents a person’s life force and consciousness. Suvaha is the power of radiance. All these powers are present within a person. Thus, Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati dwell in the human heart.

People tend to manifest passionate (rajasic) qualities such as anger and hatred. They embody Durga’s fierce qualities.

Praising Divinity in songs and poetry, and the vibrations emanating from them, represent the power of Saraswati.

The pure qualities manifested by a person—such as compassion, love, tolerance and empathy—are expressed through Lakshmi.

People worship Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati as depicted in paintings and icons. In this way, they depict the subtle powers that exist within them.

Modern people face difficulties because they are unable to realize the powers within themselves and develop respect for them. They are attracted to external physical forms. It is necessary to understand the connection between the material and subtle worlds. The remedy is within a person, yet they search for it outside.

What should you do during the ten days of the Navaratri celebration?

Transform the power of will (iccha shakti) into the aspiration to attain God. Transform purposeful action (kriya shakti) into the power that inspires one to perform Divine deeds. Transform the power of discrimination (jnana shakti) into God Himself.

From a Divine discourse by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, October 9, 1994

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<div class="bbWrapper">Since ancient times, the people of India have celebrated Navaratri, worshipping Devi, Divinity as Mother. During these ten days, they revere the goddesses Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. Their esoteric significance lies in the three powers (shaktis): action (karma), devotion (upasana) and spiritual wisdom (jnana).<br /> <br /> It is necessary to correctly understand the inner meaning embodied by Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. They represent three types of human power: the power of will (iccha shakti), the power of purposeful action (kriya shakti) and the power of discrimination (jnana shakti).<br /> <br /> Saraswati represents the power of speech (vak) in a person. Durga represents dynamic powers. Lakshmi manifests as the power of will. The body is intended for purposeful action (kriya shakti). The mind is the repository of the power of will (iccha shakti). The Atma is the power of discrimination (jnana shakti).<br /> <br /> Purposeful action arises from the physical body. The power that activates the inert body and impels it to act is the power of will. The power that impels the power of will to act is the power of discrimination (jnana shakti). Through it, energy radiates. These three powers are represented in the mantra “Om Bhur Bhuvah Suvaha.” Bhur represents the earth. Bhuvah represents a person’s life force and consciousness. Suvaha is the power of radiance. All these powers are present within a person. Thus, Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati dwell in the human heart.<br /> <br /> People tend to manifest passionate (rajasic) qualities such as anger and hatred. They embody Durga’s fierce qualities.<br /> <br /> Praising Divinity in songs and poetry, and the vibrations emanating from them, represent the power of Saraswati.<br /> <br /> The pure qualities manifested by a person—such as compassion, love, tolerance and empathy—are expressed through Lakshmi.<br /> <br /> People worship Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati as depicted in paintings and icons. In this way, they depict the subtle powers that exist within them.<br /> <br /> Modern people face difficulties because they are unable to realize the powers within themselves and develop respect for them. They are attracted to external physical forms. It is necessary to understand the connection between the material and subtle worlds. The remedy is within a person, yet they search for it outside.<br /> <br /> What should you do during the ten days of the Navaratri celebration?<br /> <br /> Transform the power of will (iccha shakti) into the aspiration to attain God. Transform purposeful action (kriya shakti) into the power that inspires one to perform Divine deeds. Transform the power of discrimination (jnana shakti) into God Himself.<br /> <br /> From a Divine discourse by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, October 9, 1994</div>

 

[1313]

People who aspire to spirituality should minimize all discussions and arguments, for these give rise to a spirit of rivalry and lead to angry reactions and vengeful conflict. Do not try to earn the respect of the whole world. Do not feel humiliated or become angry when the world does not recognize you and your achievements. Learn this first of all if you aspire to succeed on the spiritual path. Do not rejoice when you are praised; this conceals a deadly trap that may even lead you astray and jeopardize your progress. Thus, you must change the qualities of your mind and your habits. Develop the habit of never hurting other people. Try to understand them, sympathize with them, and help them. Train yourself to accept insults and criticism as a reward. Try to befriend everyone, regardless of their character and behavior.

Sathya Sai Baba
Dhyana Vahini, Ch. 14.

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<div class="bbWrapper">People who aspire to spirituality should minimize all discussions and arguments, for these give rise to a spirit of rivalry and lead to angry reactions and vengeful conflict. Do not try to earn the respect of the whole world. Do not feel humiliated or become angry when the world does not recognize you and your achievements. Learn this first of all if you aspire to succeed on the spiritual path. Do not rejoice when you are praised; this conceals a deadly trap that may even lead you astray and jeopardize your progress. Thus, you must change the qualities of your mind and your habits. Develop the habit of never hurting other people. Try to understand them, sympathize with them, and help them. Train yourself to accept insults and criticism as a reward. Try to befriend everyone, regardless of their character and behavior.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Dhyana Vahini, Ch. 14.</div>

 

[1313]

In life, you may encounter many losses and difficulties. You may experience much suffering. Nevertheless, you must never betray truth, faith, and love. Loss, suffering, and difficulties are like waves in the ocean of life. They simply come and go. But the water in the ocean is constant. Therefore, develop faith in the “water,” that is, in Divinity. The power of the Divine Name is unparalleled. Do not treat it lightly. The Divine Name is a genuine diamond. Keep it safely.
Never worry about pain and suffering, losses and difficulties. Your thoughts are like passing clouds. After you have taken refuge at the Lord’s Lotus Feet, never abandon that refuge. Wherever you go, the Divine Feet will protect you. If you place the Divine Name in your heart, your life will be sanctified. This is devotion (bhakti). This is your power (shakti). This is liberation (mukti).

Sathya Sai Baba Art of Living

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<div class="bbWrapper">In life, you may encounter many losses and difficulties. You may experience much suffering. Nevertheless, you must never betray truth, faith, and love. Loss, suffering, and difficulties are like waves in the ocean of life. They simply come and go. But the water in the ocean is constant. Therefore, develop faith in the “water,” that is, in Divinity. The power of the Divine Name is unparalleled. Do not treat it lightly. The Divine Name is a genuine diamond. Keep it safely.<br /> Never worry about pain and suffering, losses and difficulties. Your thoughts are like passing clouds. After you have taken refuge at the Lord’s Lotus Feet, never abandon that refuge. Wherever you go, the Divine Feet will protect you. If you place the Divine Name in your heart, your life will be sanctified. This is devotion (bhakti). This is your power (shakti). This is liberation (mukti).<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba Art of Living</div>

 

[1313]

Faith and devotion are essential conditions for attaining peace. Believe in the ocean, not in the wave; believe in the Lord, not in insignificant things. But the tragedy is that you trust small-minded, immoral, familiar, wicked, and greedy people, yet you doubt when asked to believe in the Lord, who is more merciful than any father, more loving than any mother, more powerful than any earthly authority, and more attentive than the person closest to you. You do not doubt one another, but you easily develop doubts about God. Doubting is easy; believing is difficult. Remain in the Divine Name, and its sweetness will permeate your tongue and improve its taste. Do not count how many times you have repeated it. For whom are you trying to impress with the number? The Lord will answer even if you call to Him only once from the depths of your heart.

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, December 17, 1964

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<div class="bbWrapper">Faith and devotion are essential conditions for attaining peace. Believe in the ocean, not in the wave; believe in the Lord, not in insignificant things. But the tragedy is that you trust small-minded, immoral, familiar, wicked, and greedy people, yet you doubt when asked to believe in the Lord, who is more merciful than any father, more loving than any mother, more powerful than any earthly authority, and more attentive than the person closest to you. You do not doubt one another, but you easily develop doubts about God. Doubting is easy; believing is difficult. Remain in the Divine Name, and its sweetness will permeate your tongue and improve its taste. Do not count how many times you have repeated it. For whom are you trying to impress with the number? The Lord will answer even if you call to Him only once from the depths of your heart.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, December 17, 1964</div>

 

[1313]

Atma-jnana can be attained only through faith. Develop faith in yourself and faith in God. Today, self-confidence is expressed only in matters connected with worldly achievements and selfish pursuits. Faith and confidence are not expressed in the spiritual sphere. Without unwavering faith, the Divine cannot be experienced firsthand. Because of the lack of firm faith, the formal performance of spiritual practices produces no results. The main prerequisite here is unconditional and unwavering faith in God. Single-minded devotion helps develop earnestness in the spiritual sphere. A serious, zealous person seeking spirituality attains knowledge of the Atman (the Self). Such a devotee needs no qualities other than deep faith. He needs neither other forms of knowledge, nor social status, nor wealth. He may belong to any caste or community. He may be a child or even an animal, like Gajendra, Valmiki, Nanda, Kuchela, Dhruva, Shabari, Vidura and Hanuman, who are examples of devotees who received God's grace through their deep devotion, without possessing any other special qualities.

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, October 6, 1986

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<div class="bbWrapper">Atma-jnana can be attained only through faith. Develop faith in yourself and faith in God. Today, self-confidence is expressed only in matters connected with worldly achievements and selfish pursuits. Faith and confidence are not expressed in the spiritual sphere. Without unwavering faith, the Divine cannot be experienced firsthand. Because of the lack of firm faith, the formal performance of spiritual practices produces no results. The main prerequisite here is unconditional and unwavering faith in God. Single-minded devotion helps develop earnestness in the spiritual sphere. A serious, zealous person seeking spirituality attains knowledge of the Atman (the Self). Such a devotee needs no qualities other than deep faith. He needs neither other forms of knowledge, nor social status, nor wealth. He may belong to any caste or community. He may be a child or even an animal, like Gajendra, Valmiki, Nanda, Kuchela, Dhruva, Shabari, Vidura and Hanuman, who are examples of devotees who received God's grace through their deep devotion, without possessing any other special qualities.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, October 6, 1986</div>

 

[1313]

One of the basic rules of a virtuous life is the practice of silence. The Creator's voice can be heard in the region of your heart only when the tongue falls silent. When the storm subsides, the waves grow calm. Others will not feel inclined to shout when you speak to them in a whisper. Set the tone of the conversation yourself: keep it as low as possible, so that it can be heard no farther than by those you are addressing. Treat sound with care; it is the treasure of the spatial element (Akasha), an emanation of the Creator Himself. The intellect can prevail only when argument is not strengthened by raising one's voice. Silence is the speech of the spiritual seeker. Gentle, tender speech is a sign of true love. Hatred shouts, fear shrieks, and vanity trumpets. But love sings lullabies; it soothes and applies a balm. Practice the language of love; forget the language of hatred and contempt!

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, February 19, 1970

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<div class="bbWrapper">One of the basic rules of a virtuous life is the practice of silence. The Creator's voice can be heard in the region of your heart only when the tongue falls silent. When the storm subsides, the waves grow calm. Others will not feel inclined to shout when you speak to them in a whisper. Set the tone of the conversation yourself: keep it as low as possible, so that it can be heard no farther than by those you are addressing. Treat sound with care; it is the treasure of the spatial element (Akasha), an emanation of the Creator Himself. The intellect can prevail only when argument is not strengthened by raising one's voice. Silence is the speech of the spiritual seeker. Gentle, tender speech is a sign of true love. Hatred shouts, fear shrieks, and vanity trumpets. But love sings lullabies; it soothes and applies a balm. Practice the language of love; forget the language of hatred and contempt!<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, February 19, 1970</div>

 

[1313]

At the gates of liberation (moksha) and Self-realization (sakshatkara) stand three guardians who test your credentials. They are peace, or equanimity, joy, or contentment, and discrimination (shanti, santosha, and vichara). Even if you win over just one of these guardians, the others will also help you pass. The first of them is peace. If you win peace over to your side, contentment will be with you too! Contentment is the highest source of happiness and the most precious possession. It is worth as much as an empire. Without contentment, desire (kama) and greed (lobha) grow to dangerous proportions and overcome the power of discrimination itself. Desire easily turns into greed, and greed develops into miserliness and lust, making you rush from one object to another in a mad pursuit of fleeting sensual pleasures. How can people with such qualities develop the ability to concentrate? And without the ability to concentrate, how can they meditate? And without meditation (dhyana), no one can attain God (Daivam).

Sathya Sai Baba
Dhyana Vahini, Chapter 14.

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<div class="bbWrapper">At the gates of liberation (moksha) and Self-realization (sakshatkara) stand three guardians who test your credentials. They are peace, or equanimity, joy, or contentment, and discrimination (shanti, santosha, and vichara). Even if you win over just one of these guardians, the others will also help you pass. The first of them is peace. If you win peace over to your side, contentment will be with you too! Contentment is the highest source of happiness and the most precious possession. It is worth as much as an empire. Without contentment, desire (kama) and greed (lobha) grow to dangerous proportions and overcome the power of discrimination itself. Desire easily turns into greed, and greed develops into miserliness and lust, making you rush from one object to another in a mad pursuit of fleeting sensual pleasures. How can people with such qualities develop the ability to concentrate? And without the ability to concentrate, how can they meditate? And without meditation (dhyana), no one can attain God (Daivam).<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Dhyana Vahini, Chapter 14.</div>

 

[1313]

We do not always receive what we ask for. Why? Perhaps God does not feel compassion for us? Imagine a sick child begging a mother who refuses him various sweets. Does this mean that the mother hates her child? Or perhaps that she is hard-hearted? Has she lost her affection? No, the mother’s refusal in this case is itself an act of compassion.
Every person is like such a sick child, suffering from repeated births and deaths. Fulfilling all their wishes would only prolong this suffering. Hence the need for refusal and denial. After all, none of you asks for what is truly important! If someone prayed for imperishable peace, they would certainly receive what they desired!
God answers when prayer comes from the depths of the heart. I know that you are knocking at a door. But which one? With the door of your own heart locked, how can you succeed in asking for some other doors to be opened? Knock on the doors of your own hearts. In that case, the God dwelling within them will surely come out to meet you.

Divine Discourse, October 21, 1982

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<div class="bbWrapper">We do not always receive what we ask for. Why? Perhaps God does not feel compassion for us? Imagine a sick child begging a mother who refuses him various sweets. Does this mean that the mother hates her child? Or perhaps that she is hard-hearted? Has she lost her affection? No, the mother’s refusal in this case is itself an act of compassion.<br /> Every person is like such a sick child, suffering from repeated births and deaths. Fulfilling all their wishes would only prolong this suffering. Hence the need for refusal and denial. After all, none of you asks for what is truly important! If someone prayed for imperishable peace, they would certainly receive what they desired!<br /> God answers when prayer comes from the depths of the heart. I know that you are knocking at a door. But which one? With the door of your own heart locked, how can you succeed in asking for some other doors to be opened? Knock on the doors of your own hearts. In that case, the God dwelling within them will surely come out to meet you.<br /> <br /> Divine Discourse, October 21, 1982</div>

 

[1313]

Wherever you go, always perform your duties as you see them, and know that I will be within you, guiding every step of your journey. In the coming years, you will feel Me in many different manifestations of My forms. You are Mine, and you are dearer to Me than anything else. I will protect you as the eyelids protect the eyes. I will never abandon you, and you will never be able to lose Me.
From this moment on, stop feeling a passionate need for anything else. Perform your duties with unwavering love, seeing everything as God. Be patient. In time, everything will be given to you. Be happy. There is no need to regret anything. Whatever you may feel, whatever may happen to you, know that this is the will of the Avatar.

Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">Wherever you go, always perform your duties as you see them, and know that I will be within you, guiding every step of your journey. In the coming years, you will feel Me in many different manifestations of My forms. You are Mine, and you are dearer to Me than anything else. I will protect you as the eyelids protect the eyes. I will never abandon you, and you will never be able to lose Me.<br /> From this moment on, stop feeling a passionate need for anything else. Perform your duties with unwavering love, seeing everything as God. Be patient. In time, everything will be given to you. Be happy. There is no need to regret anything. Whatever you may feel, whatever may happen to you, know that this is the will of the Avatar.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

If someone tells you that Sai Baba has endowed them with His spiritual powers, do not believe them. My powers are such that they cannot be transferred, and therefore such statements should not mislead you. These powers are unique. If you are so easily influenced by others, you will never be able to bring the mind under your control. You must have your own opinion. Do not seek supernatural powers by traveling all over the world in search of gurus and spending large sums of money on it. It is better to stay at home and try to awaken the spiritual power that lies within you! God is not outside, but within.

You are not a human being, but God—not one person, but three: the person you consider yourself to be (the body), the person others consider you to be (the mind), and the person you truly are (God). Do not think that God is outside and must be sought somewhere; God is within you. Realizing this and developing your spiritual powers, you will be able to see Him. At present, you are following a worldly path, but upon entering the path leading to Supreme Consciousness, you will realize the Lord—that is, Truth.

Sathya Sai Baba, Brindavan, 28 March 1975
"The Religion of Love" (SSG, vol. 13), chapter 6, "Advice to Truth Seekers"

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<div class="bbWrapper">If someone tells you that Sai Baba has endowed them with His spiritual powers, do not believe them. My powers are such that they cannot be transferred, and therefore such statements should not mislead you. These powers are unique. If you are so easily influenced by others, you will never be able to bring the mind under your control. You must have your own opinion. Do not seek supernatural powers by traveling all over the world in search of gurus and spending large sums of money on it. It is better to stay at home and try to awaken the spiritual power that lies within you! God is not outside, but within.<br /> <br /> You are not a human being, but God—not one person, but three: the person you consider yourself to be (the body), the person others consider you to be (the mind), and the person you truly are (God). Do not think that God is outside and must be sought somewhere; God is within you. Realizing this and developing your spiritual powers, you will be able to see Him. At present, you are following a worldly path, but upon entering the path leading to Supreme Consciousness, you will realize the Lord—that is, Truth.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba, Brindavan, 28 March 1975<br /> "The Religion of Love" (SSG, vol. 13), chapter 6, "Advice to Truth Seekers"</div>

 

[1313]

Everyone who strives to attain eternity through bhakti should seek to develop the following qualities: they should keep away from the vanity, cruelty, and falsehood of this world and practice truth, honesty, love, and peace. This is the true path of bhakti.

Those who seek union with the Lord, those who wish prosperity for the world, must recognize as worthless and cast aside such concepts as praise and blame, positive and negative judgments, prosperity and adversity. They must courageously maintain firm faith in their own inner reality and devote themselves to spiritual growth.

No one, not even Mahapurushas or Avatars, can avoid criticism and accusations. But they are not afraid of them. The true nature of a Mahapurusha or Avatar is recognized by those who criticized and condemned them only after they have passed through great difficulties. Then they, too, will praise them.

Ignorance is the cause of failure. Therefore, let the aspirant on the path of spiritual development keep away from such fickle and ignorant people and refrain from discussing their beliefs with them; they should immerse themselves in reading the Sacred Scriptures and associating with devotees of the Lord.

Later, when they have gained the experience of realization and are no longer afraid to encounter reality, they will be able to associate with everyone without fear; they may even try to guide other minds toward the truth they themselves have seen.

Sathya Sai Baba
"Prema Vahini"

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<div class="bbWrapper">Everyone who strives to attain eternity through bhakti should seek to develop the following qualities: they should keep away from the vanity, cruelty, and falsehood of this world and practice truth, honesty, love, and peace. This is the true path of bhakti.<br /> <br /> Those who seek union with the Lord, those who wish prosperity for the world, must recognize as worthless and cast aside such concepts as praise and blame, positive and negative judgments, prosperity and adversity. They must courageously maintain firm faith in their own inner reality and devote themselves to spiritual growth.<br /> <br /> No one, not even Mahapurushas or Avatars, can avoid criticism and accusations. But they are not afraid of them. The true nature of a Mahapurusha or Avatar is recognized by those who criticized and condemned them only after they have passed through great difficulties. Then they, too, will praise them.<br /> <br /> Ignorance is the cause of failure. Therefore, let the aspirant on the path of spiritual development keep away from such fickle and ignorant people and refrain from discussing their beliefs with them; they should immerse themselves in reading the Sacred Scriptures and associating with devotees of the Lord.<br /> <br /> Later, when they have gained the experience of realization and are no longer afraid to encounter reality, they will be able to associate with everyone without fear; they may even try to guide other minds toward the truth they themselves have seen.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> "Prema Vahini"</div>

 

[1313]

Try changing your perspective. When you practice viewing the world from the perspective of the omnipresent Divinity, you will begin to change. You will feel the power of Divinity in all of Creation.

You cannot hide anywhere from God. Many believe that Swami does not see what they are doing. They do not realize that Swami has myriad eyes. Your eyes are divine too. But you are unaware of your true nature.

When you have faith in yourself, you will have faith in God. Love God with this highest faith. Then you will be drawn to God. Purity is needed for this. A magnet cannot attract a rusty piece of iron. Likewise, God cannot draw an impure person to Himself. Therefore, change your feelings and thoughts and develop the conviction that God is everything that exists. The Lord will never leave you if you have this conviction.

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, February 27, 1995

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<div class="bbWrapper">Try changing your perspective. When you practice viewing the world from the perspective of the omnipresent Divinity, you will begin to change. You will feel the power of Divinity in all of Creation. <br /> <br /> You cannot hide anywhere from God. Many believe that Swami does not see what they are doing. They do not realize that Swami has myriad eyes. Your eyes are divine too. But you are unaware of your true nature.<br /> <br /> When you have faith in yourself, you will have faith in God. Love God with this highest faith. Then you will be drawn to God. Purity is needed for this. A magnet cannot attract a rusty piece of iron. Likewise, God cannot draw an impure person to Himself. Therefore, change your feelings and thoughts and develop the conviction that God is everything that exists. The Lord will never leave you if you have this conviction.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, February 27, 1995</div>

 

[1313]

Today, people face many difficulties because they have forgotten the Source from which they came. A fish is born in water, without which it cannot live even for a minute. It is happy only when it is in the water, where it was born. What is the Source of human birth? Lord Krishna said in the Bhagavad Gita: “The eternal Atma in all beings is a part of Me (Mamaivamsho Jivaloke Jivabhuta Sanatanaha). Every person is a spark of Divinity. Everyone has come from God. Having been born from God, you should always contemplate on God. Forgetting God and your Divinity, you become restless and encounter all kinds of difficulties. Therefore, never forget your Divine origin. Believe in God, worship Him, and revere Him. This should become the foundation of your life. This is your duty (dharma), which you must perform. You may hold any position in society and be wealthy and prosperous, but only faith in God can protect you.

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, February 22, 2001

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<div class="bbWrapper">Today, people face many difficulties because they have forgotten the Source from which they came. A fish is born in water, without which it cannot live even for a minute. It is happy only when it is in the water, where it was born. What is the Source of human birth? Lord Krishna said in the Bhagavad Gita: “The eternal Atma in all beings is a part of Me (Mamaivamsho Jivaloke Jivabhuta Sanatanaha). Every person is a spark of Divinity. Everyone has come from God. Having been born from God, you should always contemplate on God. Forgetting God and your Divinity, you become restless and encounter all kinds of difficulties. Therefore, never forget your Divine origin. Believe in God, worship Him, and revere Him. This should become the foundation of your life. This is your duty (dharma), which you must perform. You may hold any position in society and be wealthy and prosperous, but only faith in God can protect you. <br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba <br /> Divine Discourse, February 22, 2001</div>

 

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The only wealth you can take with you after death is love for God. Therefore, strive to acquire this wealth during your lifetime. With pure, love-filled devotion, you will easily succeed. To acquire this wealth, you should dedicate your time, body, and actions to serving the Lord. This is what Arjuna understood after listening to the Gita from the lips of Lord Krishna. Arjuna, being a very intelligent man, arrived at this conclusion after all his arguments with Krishna and said: “Karishye Vachanam Tava (I will do everything You say).” People should rely not on their own strength or mental abilities, but on the power of God. One who relies exclusively on the power of God will be able to experience true happiness and peace. Such a person need not worry about the criticism of others. They can disregard the opinion of the crowd and stand up for what they believe is right. Paying no attention to censure or praise, you should cultivate strong faith in God.

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, April 7, 1989

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<div class="bbWrapper">The only wealth you can take with you after death is love for God. Therefore, strive to acquire this wealth during your lifetime. With pure, love-filled devotion, you will easily succeed. To acquire this wealth, you should dedicate your time, body, and actions to serving the Lord. This is what Arjuna understood after listening to the Gita from the lips of Lord Krishna. Arjuna, being a very intelligent man, arrived at this conclusion after all his arguments with Krishna and said: “Karishye Vachanam Tava (I will do everything You say).” People should rely not on their own strength or mental abilities, but on the power of God. One who relies exclusively on the power of God will be able to experience true happiness and peace. Such a person need not worry about the criticism of others. They can disregard the opinion of the crowd and stand up for what they believe is right. Paying no attention to censure or praise, you should cultivate strong faith in God. <br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba <br /> Divine Discourse, April 7, 1989</div>

 

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What is true devotion? How should we purify our sadhana in order to attain it? Bhagavan lovingly explains this to us today.

If your devotion does not support you when you seek to honor the reflections of God in the bodily mirrors moving around you, when you gaze at these images of God and prostrate before them wherever you cast your eyes, how can you claim to be devoted to God? Without unwavering faith and sincere practice of this sadhana, if you merely gather, prepare, and distribute prasad on every conceivable occasion, or even sing and glorify God, I must say that all your efforts are in vain! Expand your hearts. Broaden your vision. Expand the circle of kinship and welcome more and more of your fellow beings into the sanctuary of your heart. And worship them with loving reverence. Wisdom is compassion in its highest form; for through empathy you enter another’s heart and can understand them from within. To find unity in this diversity of roles is true wisdom.
—Divine Discourse, February 23, 1971

“Ishvara sarva bhutanam” (The Lord dwells in all beings). Realizing this truth is the chief sign of devotion.

—BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">What is true devotion? How should we purify our sadhana in order to attain it? Bhagavan lovingly explains this to us today.<br /> <br /> If your devotion does not support you when you seek to honor the reflections of God in the bodily mirrors moving around you, when you gaze at these images of God and prostrate before them wherever you cast your eyes, how can you claim to be devoted to God? Without unwavering faith and sincere practice of this sadhana, if you merely gather, prepare, and distribute prasad on every conceivable occasion, or even sing and glorify God, I must say that all your efforts are in vain! Expand your hearts. Broaden your vision. Expand the circle of kinship and welcome more and more of your fellow beings into the sanctuary of your heart. And worship them with loving reverence. Wisdom is compassion in its highest form; for through empathy you enter another’s heart and can understand them from within. To find unity in this diversity of roles is true wisdom.<br /> —Divine Discourse, February 23, 1971<br /> <br /> “Ishvara sarva bhutanam” (The Lord dwells in all beings). Realizing this truth is the chief sign of devotion.<br /> <br /> —BABA</div>

 

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When spiritual power predominates, the power of Nature is under control. When spiritual power is weak, the power of Nature predominates. This is clearly seen in the example of smoke and fire. When smoke predominates, the fire is extinguished. When the fire blazes, the smoke disappears. Therefore, to strengthen the power of the Spirit and restrain the power of Nature, one should cultivate vairagya (detachment). For example, if a person desires to drink various beverages, they can bring this under control by giving up some of them. In this way, willpower is developed, and over time it becomes easier to give up other desires. In the language of Vedanta, this is described as vairagya. Vairagya does not mean abandoning home and family and going into the forest. It means developing noble thoughts and weakening worldly impulses. When such balanced development takes place, a person gains Prakriti-Shakti (control over the power of Nature). When a person acquires such powers, their mental strength increases.

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, October 4, 1992

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<div class="bbWrapper">When spiritual power predominates, the power of Nature is under control. When spiritual power is weak, the power of Nature predominates. This is clearly seen in the example of smoke and fire. When smoke predominates, the fire is extinguished. When the fire blazes, the smoke disappears. Therefore, to strengthen the power of the Spirit and restrain the power of Nature, one should cultivate vairagya (detachment). For example, if a person desires to drink various beverages, they can bring this under control by giving up some of them. In this way, willpower is developed, and over time it becomes easier to give up other desires. In the language of Vedanta, this is described as vairagya. Vairagya does not mean abandoning home and family and going into the forest. It means developing noble thoughts and weakening worldly impulses. When such balanced development takes place, a person gains Prakriti-Shakti (control over the power of Nature). When a person acquires such powers, their mental strength increases.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, October 4, 1992</div>

 

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Vishnu’s mace is called Kaumodaki, his bow is Sharnga, his discus is the Sudarshana Chakra, and his conch is Shankha. The lotus in his hands is called Padma. The Universe is born from Vishnu and merges back into Him. From Vishnu are born all the immortals, the lords of the three worlds. They flourish in splendor, wisdom, knowledge, and strength. Everything that flourishes, regardless of its glory and power, is born from a portion of Vishnu’s splendor.

— “Brahmanda Purana,” Part 2, Chapter 3, Verses 120–123

The Lord God, Who is conscious Bliss, is not subject to the three conditions of existence: inactivity, creativity, and tranquility. Yet, for the creation, preservation, and destruction of the visible multiplicity, He assumes the forms of Brahma—the creator, Vishnu—the preserver, and Shiva—the destroyer. Of these three, Vishnu’s form is qualitatively closest to the true form of God. In serving Vishnu, the Sustainer of All, a person comes into closer contact with Unconditioned Reality than through serving anyone else.

— “Bhagavata Purana,” Book 1, Chapter 2, Verse 23

Those to whom Truth has revealed Herself say that She is serene, beyond good and evil. She is everywhere (Brahman), in everything (Paramatma), and She is a free Person (Bhagavan). Truth is infinite; She is at the core of every thing and contained in Her own distinct form.

— Bhagavata Purana, Book 1, Chapter 2, Verse 11

And the great seers, well versed in the Puranas, call the lotus arising from Narayana the supreme form of the goddess Earth…
— “Matsya Purana,” Verse 169.3

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<div class="bbWrapper">Vishnu’s mace is called Kaumodaki, his bow is Sharnga, his discus is the Sudarshana Chakra, and his conch is Shankha. The lotus in his hands is called Padma. The Universe is born from Vishnu and merges back into Him. From Vishnu are born all the immortals, the lords of the three worlds. They flourish in splendor, wisdom, knowledge, and strength. Everything that flourishes, regardless of its glory and power, is born from a portion of Vishnu’s splendor.<br /> <br /> — “Brahmanda Purana,” Part 2, Chapter 3, Verses 120–123<br /> <br /> The Lord God, Who is conscious Bliss, is not subject to the three conditions of existence: inactivity, creativity, and tranquility. Yet, for the creation, preservation, and destruction of the visible multiplicity, He assumes the forms of Brahma—the creator, Vishnu—the preserver, and Shiva—the destroyer. Of these three, Vishnu’s form is qualitatively closest to the true form of God. In serving Vishnu, the Sustainer of All, a person comes into closer contact with Unconditioned Reality than through serving anyone else.<br /> <br /> — “Bhagavata Purana,” Book 1, Chapter 2, Verse 23<br /> <br /> Those to whom Truth has revealed Herself say that She is serene, beyond good and evil. She is everywhere (Brahman), in everything (Paramatma), and She is a free Person (Bhagavan). Truth is infinite; She is at the core of every thing and contained in Her own distinct form.<br /> <br /> — Bhagavata Purana, Book 1, Chapter 2, Verse 11<br /> <br /> And the great seers, well versed in the Puranas, call the lotus arising from Narayana the supreme form of the goddess Earth…<br /> — “Matsya Purana,” Verse 169.3</div>

 

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Only through the triumph of truth do the sun and moon shine in the sky; only through truth does the Earth rotate on its axis; only through truth is the world as it is.
But today, people have lost faith in truth and the desire to attain it. It has come to pass that the only thing people do not like in this world is the truth. They always try to retreat at the last moment, even when it comes to seeking and attaining the truth concerning their own nature. They are simply afraid to learn this truth. How can a person who fears the truth hidden within them embark upon a righteous, truthful path in life?
From the podium, we repeat memorized words like parrots: truth, love, nonviolence, and so on. But in everyday life, we have no faith in truth, do not observe ahimsa (nonviolence), and are extremely far from the path of prema (love). Our young people and students need to take a step forward and move from meaningless repetition of words to action.
A person’s entire life rests on three foundations: thoughts, words, and deeds. Whatever desire arises within you, it is expressed through the mind. The basis for the emergence of a thought is the mind. A thought that visits the mind becomes known to the world as a word that has flown from the mouth. Once you have put into words and spoken aloud the thought that entered your mind, the next step is action—that is, the word embodied in life. Only when a person achieves harmony among thought, word, and deed will they be able to realize their true nature.

Sathya Sai Baba, “Summer Roses on the Blue Mountains,” 1976

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<div class="bbWrapper">Only through the triumph of truth do the sun and moon shine in the sky; only through truth does the Earth rotate on its axis; only through truth is the world as it is.<br /> But today, people have lost faith in truth and the desire to attain it. It has come to pass that the only thing people do not like in this world is the truth. They always try to retreat at the last moment, even when it comes to seeking and attaining the truth concerning their own nature. They are simply afraid to learn this truth. How can a person who fears the truth hidden within them embark upon a righteous, truthful path in life?<br /> From the podium, we repeat memorized words like parrots: truth, love, nonviolence, and so on. But in everyday life, we have no faith in truth, do not observe ahimsa (nonviolence), and are extremely far from the path of prema (love). Our young people and students need to take a step forward and move from meaningless repetition of words to action.<br /> A person’s entire life rests on three foundations: thoughts, words, and deeds. Whatever desire arises within you, it is expressed through the mind. The basis for the emergence of a thought is the mind. A thought that visits the mind becomes known to the world as a word that has flown from the mouth. Once you have put into words and spoken aloud the thought that entered your mind, the next step is action—that is, the word embodied in life. Only when a person achieves harmony among thought, word, and deed will they be able to realize their true nature.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba, “Summer Roses on the Blue Mountains,” 1976</div>