Learning Through Reading

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People think they can draw wisdom from books. But book knowledge is merely artificial training of the mind. True wisdom can never be attained through artificial means. Wisdom blossoms in the field of your heart. A person must begin with the most important thing—getting rid of the feeling that they are different from God. If, without abandoning their faith, a person tirelessly repeats, “I am God,” then one fine day it will be revealed to them that they and God are one. However, merely making the sound of this phrase mechanically, as it slips from the lips, will produce no results. One devotee of Shiva tirelessly repeated day after day: “Shivo ham, Shivo ham.” His friend watched him and eventually asked what “Shivo ham” meant.

The ascetic replied that “Shivo ham” means “I am Shiva,” that is, God. Then his friend asked: “If you are Shiva, what is your relationship with Parvati, Shiva’s wife?” Hearing these words, the ascetic replied that asking such blasphemous questions was impermissible. This story once again proves that chanting mantras without sincere faith in their meaning is a rather pointless activity. If the devotee of Shiva had firmly believed that he truly was Shiva, he would have answered without hesitation that he was also Parvati.

Sathya Sai Baba
Summer Showers in Brindavan 1993

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<div class="bbWrapper">People think they can draw wisdom from books. But book knowledge is merely artificial training of the mind. True wisdom can never be attained through artificial means. Wisdom blossoms in the field of your heart. A person must begin with the most important thing—getting rid of the feeling that they are different from God. If, without abandoning their faith, a person tirelessly repeats, “I am God,” then one fine day it will be revealed to them that they and God are one. However, merely making the sound of this phrase mechanically, as it slips from the lips, will produce no results. One devotee of Shiva tirelessly repeated day after day: “Shivo ham, Shivo ham.” His friend watched him and eventually asked what “Shivo ham” meant.<br /> <br /> The ascetic replied that “Shivo ham” means “I am Shiva,” that is, God. Then his friend asked: “If you are Shiva, what is your relationship with Parvati, Shiva’s wife?” Hearing these words, the ascetic replied that asking such blasphemous questions was impermissible. This story once again proves that chanting mantras without sincere faith in their meaning is a rather pointless activity. If the devotee of Shiva had firmly believed that he truly was Shiva, he would have answered without hesitation that he was also Parvati.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Summer Showers in Brindavan 1993</div>

 

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This world is a combination of time (kala), action (karma), and cause (karana). Every action has a corresponding action or reaction. When you cut yourself, blood immediately begins to flow. Here the reaction is instantaneous. There is no time interval. On the other hand, the food we eat takes at least two hours to digest. In the case of sowing seeds, a seed sown today sprouts after several days.
Here the time interval between action and reaction is somewhat longer compared with the previous examples. On the other hand, we see that a young tree takes years to grow into a giant tree and bear fruit. Thus, the time interval between an action and its consequence may vary depending on the nature of the action. It is impossible to say when, how, and where you will encounter the consequences of your actions. But know for certain that no one can escape the consequences of their actions.

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, September 3, 1999

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<div class="bbWrapper">This world is a combination of time (kala), action (karma), and cause (karana). Every action has a corresponding action or reaction. When you cut yourself, blood immediately begins to flow. Here the reaction is instantaneous. There is no time interval. On the other hand, the food we eat takes at least two hours to digest. In the case of sowing seeds, a seed sown today sprouts after several days.<br /> Here the time interval between action and reaction is somewhat longer compared with the previous examples. On the other hand, we see that a young tree takes years to grow into a giant tree and bear fruit. Thus, the time interval between an action and its consequence may vary depending on the nature of the action. It is impossible to say when, how, and where you will encounter the consequences of your actions. But know for certain that no one can escape the consequences of their actions.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, September 3, 1999</div>

 

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Swami’s Message to Students

My dear ones,

My mission has reached the point in time when each of you has a role to play. This planet has a purpose in the great galaxy in which it exists.

This purpose is now unfolding before your eyes. I urge you to radiate the devotion that lies within you, so that its invisible power may envelop everyone who enters your orbit.

To fulfill your role successfully, always remain focused on Me. Allow yourselves to convey this purity of heart within you to all people and all living beings, and do not reach for the fruits of your labor. This part of My mission is carried out in absolute silence.

Prema Dhara, Volume 3

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<div class="bbWrapper">Swami’s Message to Students<br /> <br /> My dear ones,<br /> <br /> My mission has reached the point in time when each of you has a role to play. This planet has a purpose in the great galaxy in which it exists.<br /> <br /> This purpose is now unfolding before your eyes. I urge you to radiate the devotion that lies within you, so that its invisible power may envelop everyone who enters your orbit.<br /> <br /> To fulfill your role successfully, always remain focused on Me. Allow yourselves to convey this purity of heart within you to all people and all living beings, and do not reach for the fruits of your labor. This part of My mission is carried out in absolute silence.<br /> <br /> Prema Dhara, Volume 3</div>

 

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What is the meaning of the word “Avatar” (an incarnation of God)?

This word denotes the union of divine consciousness with human consciousness.
A human being is a combination of body, mind, intellect, and consciousness.
God, being the embodiment of love, assumes human form in order to establish His identity with human beings and, through love, bring about their transformation. God descends to Earth and becomes involved in the affairs of the world in order to teach people and guide them along the right path...
When God incarnates on Earth in human form, He behaves like a human being. He may make some people cry, others laugh, and play and frolic with yet others. Seeing all these seemingly ordinary actions, people fall into illusion and begin to regard the Avatar as an ordinary human being.
Why, then, does God descend to Earth in human form? Only to show people an ideal and guide them along the path of righteousness...
You are all embodiments of the Atman. You are embodiments of the Atman, so why should you seek the Atman anywhere else?
What is the Atman? Atman means consciousness. Consciousness pervades everything. Consciousness sustains and protects the body as long as it remains within it. When consciousness leaves the body, the body loses all its value.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 39.
Prashanti Nilayam. 2006.

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<div class="bbWrapper">What is the meaning of the word “Avatar” (an incarnation of God)? <br /> <br /> This word denotes the union of divine consciousness with human consciousness.<br /> A human being is a combination of body, mind, intellect, and consciousness.<br /> God, being the embodiment of love, assumes human form in order to establish His identity with human beings and, through love, bring about their transformation. God descends to Earth and becomes involved in the affairs of the world in order to teach people and guide them along the right path...<br /> When God incarnates on Earth in human form, He behaves like a human being. He may make some people cry, others laugh, and play and frolic with yet others. Seeing all these seemingly ordinary actions, people fall into illusion and begin to regard the Avatar as an ordinary human being.<br /> Why, then, does God descend to Earth in human form? Only to show people an ideal and guide them along the path of righteousness...<br /> You are all embodiments of the Atman. You are embodiments of the Atman, so why should you seek the Atman anywhere else?<br /> What is the Atman? Atman means consciousness. Consciousness pervades everything. Consciousness sustains and protects the body as long as it remains within it. When consciousness leaves the body, the body loses all its value.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 39.<br /> Prashanti Nilayam. 2006.</div>

 

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Where should we seek God, and where can we find Him? Bhagawan lovingly guides and inspires us today.

God is beyond comprehension. He cannot be understood in the external world of objects; He dwells in the very heart of every being. Precious stones must be sought deep beneath the earth; they do not float in the air. Seek God within your own depths, not in Nature’s alluring kaleidoscope. The body has been given to you for this noble purpose; but now you misuse it, like a person who prepared everyday food in a gold vase covered with precious stones, which was a family heirloom. People extol God as omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent, yet ignore His presence within themselves! Of course, many take it upon themselves to describe God’s attributes and declare Him to be this or that; but these are merely their own conjectures and reflections of their own likes and preferences. Who can claim that God is this or that? Who can claim that God has one form or possesses a particular attribute? Each person draws from the boundless ocean exactly as much as can fit in the vessel they carry to the shore. From this vastness, they can understand only a little. — Divine Discourse, June 19, 1974

It is impossible to comprehend the principle of Divinity solely through the study of scriptures or worldly education.

— BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">Where should we seek God, and where can we find Him? Bhagawan lovingly guides and inspires us today.<br /> <br /> God is beyond comprehension. He cannot be understood in the external world of objects; He dwells in the very heart of every being. Precious stones must be sought deep beneath the earth; they do not float in the air. Seek God within your own depths, not in Nature’s alluring kaleidoscope. The body has been given to you for this noble purpose; but now you misuse it, like a person who prepared everyday food in a gold vase covered with precious stones, which was a family heirloom. People extol God as omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent, yet ignore His presence within themselves! Of course, many take it upon themselves to describe God’s attributes and declare Him to be this or that; but these are merely their own conjectures and reflections of their own likes and preferences. Who can claim that God is this or that? Who can claim that God has one form or possesses a particular attribute? Each person draws from the boundless ocean exactly as much as can fit in the vessel they carry to the shore. From this vastness, they can understand only a little. — Divine Discourse, June 19, 1974<br /> <br /> It is impossible to comprehend the principle of Divinity solely through the study of scriptures or worldly education.<br /> <br /> — BABA</div>

 

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Man, who is Divine by his very nature and in whom Atma dwells as an inseparable witness, has unfortunately become mired today in unrighteous and vicious actions, thereby discrediting the entire human race. In dark ages, when people indulged in ungodly and cruel actions and behaved like demons or wild beasts, this could perhaps have been justified in some way. But in the present age, when such great advances have been made in science and technology and people call themselves civilized, if inhumane acts prevail and malice and ingratitude are the rule, one cannot help wondering who these people are—human beings or demons! The irony of the present situation is that, on the one hand, governments accumulate monstrous deadly weapons, encourage demonic actions, and foment conflicts between nations, while at international meetings they declare their desire for peace. Is there any sense in this? The foremost need today is for everyone to realize that God is One. This is what Jesus and Muhammad proclaimed. The word "Allah" actually means the One Supreme Being who encompasses everything in the Universe.

Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, December 25, 1984

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<div class="bbWrapper">Man, who is Divine by his very nature and in whom Atma dwells as an inseparable witness, has unfortunately become mired today in unrighteous and vicious actions, thereby discrediting the entire human race. In dark ages, when people indulged in ungodly and cruel actions and behaved like demons or wild beasts, this could perhaps have been justified in some way. But in the present age, when such great advances have been made in science and technology and people call themselves civilized, if inhumane acts prevail and malice and ingratitude are the rule, one cannot help wondering who these people are—human beings or demons! The irony of the present situation is that, on the one hand, governments accumulate monstrous deadly weapons, encourage demonic actions, and foment conflicts between nations, while at international meetings they declare their desire for peace. Is there any sense in this? The foremost need today is for everyone to realize that God is One. This is what Jesus and Muhammad proclaimed. The word "Allah" actually means the One Supreme Being who encompasses everything in the Universe. <br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, December 25, 1984</div>

 

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Love all beings—that is enough. Love without expecting anything in return. Love for love’s sake; love because love is your very nature; love because it is a form of worship that is pleasing and familiar to you. When others are happy, be happy too. When others are unhappy, try to ease their burden as far as you can. Love by engaging in seva—selfless service. In this way you will realize unity and rid yourself of the ego that harms you.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 12

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<div class="bbWrapper">Love all beings—that is enough. Love without expecting anything in return. Love for love’s sake; love because love is your very nature; love because it is a form of worship that is pleasing and familiar to you. When others are happy, be happy too. When others are unhappy, try to ease their burden as far as you can. Love by engaging in seva—selfless service. In this way you will realize unity and rid yourself of the ego that harms you.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 12</div>

 

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Sadhaka: What does “mantra” mean?

Sai: A mantra is a statement of the established Goal; that is, something that prompts and advances manana, or inquiry through the mind.
The syllable “man” indicates the process of inquiry, and the syllable “tra” means “the ability to cross over, liberate, save.”
In short, a mantra is that which Saves when the mind concentrates on it (abides in it).
When rituals and ritual sacrifices are performed, a person must constantly remind Himself of their nature and significance. The formulas he must repeat in order to achieve this are mantras.
But today those who perform these rituals either repeat them mechanically or simply let them roll off their tongues.
They pay no attention to the meaning of the mantra.
When mantras are recited formally, like empty chatter, they bear no fruit!
A person can receive the full reward only when he repeats them with Knowledge of their meaning and significance.

Sathya Sai Baba,
"Lila Kaivalya Vahini—The Cosmic Play of God".

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<div class="bbWrapper">Sadhaka: What does “mantra” mean? <br /> <br /> Sai: A mantra is a statement of the established Goal; that is, something that prompts and advances manana, or inquiry through the mind.<br /> The syllable “man” indicates the process of inquiry, and the syllable “tra” means “the ability to cross over, liberate, save.” <br /> In short, a mantra is that which Saves when the mind concentrates on it (abides in it).<br /> When rituals and ritual sacrifices are performed, a person must constantly remind Himself of their nature and significance. The formulas he must repeat in order to achieve this are mantras.<br /> But today those who perform these rituals either repeat them mechanically or simply let them roll off their tongues.<br /> They pay no attention to the meaning of the mantra.<br /> When mantras are recited formally, like empty chatter, they bear no fruit!<br /> A person can receive the full reward only when he repeats them with Knowledge of their meaning and significance.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba,<br /> "Lila Kaivalya Vahini—The Cosmic Play of God".</div>

 

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How should we practice the discipline of love? Our Loving Lord is leading us today along this sacred path of love.

Try to love more and more people; try to love them more and more deeply; turn love into service, and service into worship, and this will be the highest stage of sadhana. In every living being there is a spark of love; even a madman can love something or someone very intensely. But you must recognize this love as a reflection of Premaswarupa (the Embodiment of Love) dwelling in your heart. Without this source of Love surging within your heart, you simply would not feel the urge to love. Realize this source, rely on it more and more, develop its potential, try to fill the whole world with it, cleanse it of all traces of “I,” and expect nothing in return from those with whom you share it. In your daily affairs, do not create conflicts or hatred. Try to see the good in other people and the faults in yourselves. Honor others as though they were embodiments of God; honor yourselves as though you were vessels of God. Purify your heart so that He may dwell in it! — Divine Discourse, March 26, 1965

The property of sugar is determined by its sweetness. If it is not sweet, it is not sugar. Similarly, Love is your natural quality. Without Love, you cannot be called human.

— BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">How should we practice the discipline of love? Our Loving Lord is leading us today along this sacred path of love. <br /> <br /> Try to love more and more people; try to love them more and more deeply; turn love into service, and service into worship, and this will be the highest stage of sadhana. In every living being there is a spark of love; even a madman can love something or someone very intensely. But you must recognize this love as a reflection of Premaswarupa (the Embodiment of Love) dwelling in your heart. Without this source of Love surging within your heart, you simply would not feel the urge to love. Realize this source, rely on it more and more, develop its potential, try to fill the whole world with it, cleanse it of all traces of “I,” and expect nothing in return from those with whom you share it. In your daily affairs, do not create conflicts or hatred. Try to see the good in other people and the faults in yourselves. Honor others as though they were embodiments of God; honor yourselves as though you were vessels of God. Purify your heart so that He may dwell in it! — Divine Discourse, March 26, 1965<br /> <br /> The property of sugar is determined by its sweetness. If it is not sweet, it is not sugar. Similarly, Love is your natural quality. Without Love, you cannot be called human.<br /> <br /> — BABA</div>

 

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How should we regard the various religions and their beliefs, which may sometimes seem contradictory? Bhagawan lovingly explains this matter to us so that we may spread harmony both in our lives and in society.

Each religion defines God within the limited framework that it itself establishes, and then claims to have understood Him. Like the seven blind men who described the elephant as a pillar, a fan, a rope, and a wall—depending on the part of the elephant they had touched—and were unable to grasp the image of the elephant as a whole, religions speak only of one particular part, claiming that their vision is complete and all-encompassing. Each religion forgets that God is all forms, all names, all qualities, and all descriptions. The religion of humanity is the sum and essence of all these partial beliefs, for there is only one religion, and that is the “Religion of Love.” All the parts of the elephant that seemed separate from one another to the blind men seeking to understand it were nourished and enlivened by the same flow of blood; all the diverse religions and beliefs that consider themselves separate and distinct from others are nourished by the same flow of love.—Divine Discourse, January 19, 1974

There are many bodies, but life is one. There are many beings, but bliss is one. There are many religions, but Truth is one.

— BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">How should we regard the various religions and their beliefs, which may sometimes seem contradictory? Bhagawan lovingly explains this matter to us so that we may spread harmony both in our lives and in society.<br /> <br /> Each religion defines God within the limited framework that it itself establishes, and then claims to have understood Him. Like the seven blind men who described the elephant as a pillar, a fan, a rope, and a wall—depending on the part of the elephant they had touched—and were unable to grasp the image of the elephant as a whole, religions speak only of one particular part, claiming that their vision is complete and all-encompassing. Each religion forgets that God is all forms, all names, all qualities, and all descriptions. The religion of humanity is the sum and essence of all these partial beliefs, for there is only one religion, and that is the “Religion of Love.” All the parts of the elephant that seemed separate from one another to the blind men seeking to understand it were nourished and enlivened by the same flow of blood; all the diverse religions and beliefs that consider themselves separate and distinct from others are nourished by the same flow of love.—Divine Discourse, January 19, 1974<br /> <br /> There are many bodies, but life is one. There are many beings, but bliss is one. There are many religions, but Truth is one.<br /> <br /> — BABA</div>

 

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God is eternal, omnipotent, and omniscient. He is both the cause and the effect—the potter, the clay, and the pot. Without God, the Universe does not exist. God willed it, and the Universe appeared as His Play, a manifestation of His power. People embody His will, His energy, and His wisdom. But they are unaware of this greatness because the cloud of ignorance conceals the truth. Therefore, God sends saints and prophets, and even manifests Himself to humanity, in order to reveal the Truth to it, as well as to awaken and liberate it. Two thousand years ago, when humanity was subject to the negative influence of limited pride and profound ignorance, Jesus came as an embodiment of love and compassion, living among people and preaching the highest ideals of life. (Divine Discourse, December 24, 1980)

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<div class="bbWrapper">God is eternal, omnipotent, and omniscient. He is both the cause and the effect—the potter, the clay, and the pot. Without God, the Universe does not exist. God willed it, and the Universe appeared as His Play, a manifestation of His power. People embody His will, His energy, and His wisdom. But they are unaware of this greatness because the cloud of ignorance conceals the truth. Therefore, God sends saints and prophets, and even manifests Himself to humanity, in order to reveal the Truth to it, as well as to awaken and liberate it. Two thousand years ago, when humanity was subject to the negative influence of limited pride and profound ignorance, Jesus came as an embodiment of love and compassion, living among people and preaching the highest ideals of life. (Divine Discourse, December 24, 1980)</div>

 

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What is true service? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of the teachings of the Vedas.

Strengthening faith in the Principle of the Atma and devotional love—this is true service. Only the Atma is worthy of true human Love. The highest form of service you can offer God will come when you feel that there is no more desirable object than the Atma, either now or in the future. And this is precisely what the Vedas teach. The Vedas do not teach us to acknowledge a set of firmly established rules and restrictions; they do not threaten to imprison a person who is bound by the chains of cause and effect as if by prison bars. They teach us that there is One who stands behind all these rules and restrictions; One who is the essence of every object, every particle or atom, and every unit of energy; One who Himself governs the five elements—ether, air, fire, water, and earth. “Love Him, bow down to Him, serve Him,” the Vedas say. This is the great philosophy of love set forth in the Vedas. —Sathya Sai Vahini, Chapter 1.

A person bound and blinded by the duality of creation must take refuge in the inexhaustible wealth of compassion, strength, and wisdom—the Atma.

—BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">What is true service? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of the teachings of the Vedas. <br /> <br /> Strengthening faith in the Principle of the Atma and devotional love—this is true service. Only the Atma is worthy of true human Love. The highest form of service you can offer God will come when you feel that there is no more desirable object than the Atma, either now or in the future. And this is precisely what the Vedas teach. The Vedas do not teach us to acknowledge a set of firmly established rules and restrictions; they do not threaten to imprison a person who is bound by the chains of cause and effect as if by prison bars. They teach us that there is One who stands behind all these rules and restrictions; One who is the essence of every object, every particle or atom, and every unit of energy; One who Himself governs the five elements—ether, air, fire, water, and earth. “Love Him, bow down to Him, serve Him,” the Vedas say. This is the great philosophy of love set forth in the Vedas. —Sathya Sai Vahini, Chapter 1.<br /> <br /> A person bound and blinded by the duality of creation must take refuge in the inexhaustible wealth of compassion, strength, and wisdom—the Atma.<br /> <br /> —BABA</div>

 

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Question: So this is the sacred mission and divine purpose of this triple incarnation?

Sathya Sai: The unification of all humanity into one caste or family, to establish unity—that is, atmic realization—in every man and woman is the foundation upon which the entire cosmic plan rests. Once this is realized, the common divine heritage that links human beings with one another and with God will become evident, and love must triumph as the guiding light of the universe.

First, man must develop into humanity in the full measure of its united potential. At present, humanity as such is absent from the world. There is no synthesis between thought, word, and deed. Today, a person thinks one thing, says something else, and acts in a completely contradictory manner. Therefore, what we have is the individual person, confused, bewildered, and buried under contradictory thoughts. What we do not see is humanity, motivated by good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. We must make people realize the God within them in order to develop a synthesis linking thought, word, and deed.

When this primary lesson is taught in the family, school, college, society, cities, states, and nations of the world, people begin to understand the fact that all humanity belongs to one family. As Christ preached, all are one; treat everyone alike. The vital question is unity: one caste, one class, one creed of humanity—and this can be achieved only by surrendering one’s true self, or ego, to pure, selfless, universal love and devotion. Love is the foundation, the common denominator, and devotion is the divine spark—the cementing, unifying, integrating factor between human beings and between humanity and God.

Let me show you an example. (Baba spreads his handkerchief on the ground between us.) Here is a piece of fabric. As you can see, it is made entirely of threads. Pull out the threads one by one, and the fabric will become weak. Gather them together, and it becomes firm and strong. The same applies to humanity. Love binds it into a fabric like a million, a billion threads, and devotion reconnects it with God. Therefore, I embody love and use it as my instrument to regenerate humanity and create the brotherhood of humanity through its devotion.

I always say: Begin the day with love. Fill the day with love. End the day with love. This is the quickest path, the surest road to God.

Life is love—enjoy it;
Life is a challenge—meet it;
Life is a song—sing it;
Life is a dream—realize it;
Life is a game—play it.

An interview given by Sri Sathya Sai Baba to R. K. Karanjia, editor-in-chief of the news magazine Blitz, in September 1976.

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<div class="bbWrapper">Question: So this is the sacred mission and divine purpose of this triple incarnation?<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai: The unification of all humanity into one caste or family, to establish unity—that is, atmic realization—in every man and woman is the foundation upon which the entire cosmic plan rests. Once this is realized, the common divine heritage that links human beings with one another and with God will become evident, and love must triumph as the guiding light of the universe.<br /> <br /> First, man must develop into humanity in the full measure of its united potential. At present, humanity as such is absent from the world. There is no synthesis between thought, word, and deed. Today, a person thinks one thing, says something else, and acts in a completely contradictory manner. Therefore, what we have is the individual person, confused, bewildered, and buried under contradictory thoughts. What we do not see is humanity, motivated by good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. We must make people realize the God within them in order to develop a synthesis linking thought, word, and deed.<br /> <br /> When this primary lesson is taught in the family, school, college, society, cities, states, and nations of the world, people begin to understand the fact that all humanity belongs to one family. As Christ preached, all are one; treat everyone alike. The vital question is unity: one caste, one class, one creed of humanity—and this can be achieved only by surrendering one’s true self, or ego, to pure, selfless, universal love and devotion. Love is the foundation, the common denominator, and devotion is the divine spark—the cementing, unifying, integrating factor between human beings and between humanity and God.<br /> <br /> Let me show you an example. (Baba spreads his handkerchief on the ground between us.) Here is a piece of fabric. As you can see, it is made entirely of threads. Pull out the threads one by one, and the fabric will become weak. Gather them together, and it becomes firm and strong. The same applies to humanity. Love binds it into a fabric like a million, a billion threads, and devotion reconnects it with God. Therefore, I embody love and use it as my instrument to regenerate humanity and create the brotherhood of humanity through its devotion.<br /> <br /> I always say: Begin the day with love. Fill the day with love. End the day with love. This is the quickest path, the surest road to God.<br /> <br /> Life is love—enjoy it;<br /> Life is a challenge—meet it;<br /> Life is a song—sing it;<br /> Life is a dream—realize it;<br /> Life is a game—play it.<br /> <br /> An interview given by Sri Sathya Sai Baba to R. K. Karanjia, editor-in-chief of the news magazine Blitz, in September 1976.</div>

 

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How should a person walking the path of devotion live their life? The Embodiment of Divine Love, Bhagavan, reminds us through the example of a conversation between Yudhishthira and Draupadi.

When Dharmaraja lost his vast empire and was forced to live in the Himalayan caves, Draupadi asked him: “Lord! You are undoubtedly the most devoted follower of the path of Dharma. How could such a terrible misfortune have befallen you?” Dharmaraja replied: “Draupadi! Do not grieve. Look at the Himalayas! What grandeur, splendor, and beauty! The mountains are so wondrous that my love for them is boundless. They will give nothing in return, but by nature I am inclined to love what is beautiful and majestic. God is the embodiment of this sublime beauty. This is the meaning of love for God. This is the lesson that the Bharatiyas have given us throughout the ages. That is why I love Him. I do not seek His grace. I need nothing from Him. I will be wherever He wants me to be. The highest reward for my love is His love!”
Dharmaraja realized that love is a divine quality and must be treated accordingly. He taught Draupadi that love is an inherent quality of those people who realize the Atma, no matter what. — Sathya Sai Vahini, Chapter 1.

Love for the sake of love. Such love is life. Such life is God. This is truly Atma Tattva.

— BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">How should a person walking the path of devotion live their life? The Embodiment of Divine Love, Bhagavan, reminds us through the example of a conversation between Yudhishthira and Draupadi.<br /> <br /> When Dharmaraja lost his vast empire and was forced to live in the Himalayan caves, Draupadi asked him: “Lord! You are undoubtedly the most devoted follower of the path of Dharma. How could such a terrible misfortune have befallen you?” Dharmaraja replied: “Draupadi! Do not grieve. Look at the Himalayas! What grandeur, splendor, and beauty! The mountains are so wondrous that my love for them is boundless. They will give nothing in return, but by nature I am inclined to love what is beautiful and majestic. God is the embodiment of this sublime beauty. This is the meaning of love for God. This is the lesson that the Bharatiyas have given us throughout the ages. That is why I love Him. I do not seek His grace. I need nothing from Him. I will be wherever He wants me to be. The highest reward for my love is His love!”<br /> Dharmaraja realized that love is a divine quality and must be treated accordingly. He taught Draupadi that love is an inherent quality of those people who realize the Atma, no matter what. — Sathya Sai Vahini, Chapter 1.<br /> <br /> Love for the sake of love. Such love is life. Such life is God. This is truly Atma Tattva.<br /> <br /> — BABA</div>

 

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Human beings are endowed with immense power. The power within us exists nowhere else. But we have forgotten our inner strength because we have been overtaken by such negative qualities as envy and hatred. We must never give in to hatred or anger. Do not worry if someone is angry with you. Greet that person and remain calm and peaceful.

Greet even your enemy with love, saying: “Hello, brother! How are you?” When you address someone this way, they too will respond with brotherly love. But if you tell them, “You are my enemy,” they will continue to hate you. All your feelings return to you in the form of reaction, reflection, and resonance. As the action, so the result.

Can you taste pineapple if you eat a mango? No. The taste of the fruit depends on which fruit you eat. Similarly, you will feel only love when you fill your heart with love.

Divine Discourse by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba
at the Ugadi festival in Prashanti Nilayam on the evening of March 20, 2007.

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<div class="bbWrapper">Human beings are endowed with immense power. The power within us exists nowhere else. But we have forgotten our inner strength because we have been overtaken by such negative qualities as envy and hatred. We must never give in to hatred or anger. Do not worry if someone is angry with you. Greet that person and remain calm and peaceful. <br /> <br /> Greet even your enemy with love, saying: “Hello, brother! How are you?” When you address someone this way, they too will respond with brotherly love. But if you tell them, “You are my enemy,” they will continue to hate you. All your feelings return to you in the form of reaction, reflection, and resonance. As the action, so the result.<br /> <br /> Can you taste pineapple if you eat a mango? No. The taste of the fruit depends on which fruit you eat. Similarly, you will feel only love when you fill your heart with love.<br /> <br /> Divine Discourse by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> at the Ugadi festival in Prashanti Nilayam on the evening of March 20, 2007.</div>

 

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Avoid keeping the company of people who take pleasure in talking about sensual pleasures. Spend time in the company of Divinity and engage in activities dedicated to the Lord. Only those who act in accordance with these rules can be called people who love God (Bhagavatas). Reading and enjoying stories about the glory of Krishna (the Lord) in a consecrated hall, temple, church, or a saint’s hut, or keeping the company of virtuous and good people, is a source of great inspiration and joy. You can approach pious people, serve them, and listen to their accounts of God’s glory. A developed taste for such beneficial literature is the result of accumulated merit and dedicated effort. At first, it is enough to listen to these stories; later, they will awaken an interest in the nature and qualities of God, and the spiritual seeker will seek and find the path leading to the attainment of self-realization. (Bhagavata Vahini, Chapter 1, “Bhagavata”)

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<div class="bbWrapper">Avoid keeping the company of people who take pleasure in talking about sensual pleasures. Spend time in the company of Divinity and engage in activities dedicated to the Lord. Only those who act in accordance with these rules can be called people who love God (Bhagavatas). Reading and enjoying stories about the glory of Krishna (the Lord) in a consecrated hall, temple, church, or a saint’s hut, or keeping the company of virtuous and good people, is a source of great inspiration and joy. You can approach pious people, serve them, and listen to their accounts of God’s glory. A developed taste for such beneficial literature is the result of accumulated merit and dedicated effort. At first, it is enough to listen to these stories; later, they will awaken an interest in the nature and qualities of God, and the spiritual seeker will seek and find the path leading to the attainment of self-realization. (Bhagavata Vahini, Chapter 1, “Bhagavata”)</div>

 

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Death follows life. Nevertheless, people cannot bear even the mention of the word “death.” It is considered inauspicious to hear this word, although, however undesirable it may be, every living being moves closer and closer to this event with each passing moment. If you decide to travel somewhere, buy a ticket, and board a train, then whether you sit quietly, lie down, read, or reflect, the train will take you to your destination. So too, every living being receives at birth a ticket to a destination called death and sets out on the journey. Despite your resistance and precautions, one day you will arrive at that destination. Nothing is as certain as death. This law cannot be changed.

Sathya Sai Baba, Prema Vahini

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<div class="bbWrapper">Death follows life. Nevertheless, people cannot bear even the mention of the word “death.” It is considered inauspicious to hear this word, although, however undesirable it may be, every living being moves closer and closer to this event with each passing moment. If you decide to travel somewhere, buy a ticket, and board a train, then whether you sit quietly, lie down, read, or reflect, the train will take you to your destination. So too, every living being receives at birth a ticket to a destination called death and sets out on the journey. Despite your resistance and precautions, one day you will arrive at that destination. Nothing is as certain as death. This law cannot be changed.<br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba, Prema Vahini</div>

 

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In life, we may encounter people whose natures differ from our own. What must we persistently strive to do in such situations? Bhagavan teaches us through a memorable story.

Once, a hermit was bathing in the waters of the Ganges when he suddenly saw a scorpion floating downstream on a piece of wood. He felt that this was God confined within the form and name of a scorpion and wanted to save it. He took the scorpion into his palm, but when it stung him, he dropped it into the water. Then remorse overwhelmed the hermit, and he picked it up again. Thus, the scorpion stung him five or six times, but the hermit continued steadfastly with his mission of compassion and eventually managed to throw it onto the shore, where it could go on its way, alive and content. Many people watched his attempts and laughed at him for his excessively foolish compassion. The hermit explained to them that the scorpion had taught him a lesson, for which he was grateful. They asked him what exactly had happened. He replied: "Hold fast to your innate nature, whatever may happen—that is what it taught me." Its nature is to sting, and it stung, regardless of whom or how. The nature of a human being is to attain Jnana (wisdom) and Ananda (bliss)—this is the essence of a human being. Love is the circulatory system that sustains him; peace is the vision that guides and leads him.
Divine Discourse, April 22, 1967

God will dwell in the hearts of those who are filled with concern for the poor and strive to serve them.

BABA

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<div class="bbWrapper">In life, we may encounter people whose natures differ from our own. What must we persistently strive to do in such situations? Bhagavan teaches us through a memorable story.<br /> <br /> Once, a hermit was bathing in the waters of the Ganges when he suddenly saw a scorpion floating downstream on a piece of wood. He felt that this was God confined within the form and name of a scorpion and wanted to save it. He took the scorpion into his palm, but when it stung him, he dropped it into the water. Then remorse overwhelmed the hermit, and he picked it up again. Thus, the scorpion stung him five or six times, but the hermit continued steadfastly with his mission of compassion and eventually managed to throw it onto the shore, where it could go on its way, alive and content. Many people watched his attempts and laughed at him for his excessively foolish compassion. The hermit explained to them that the scorpion had taught him a lesson, for which he was grateful. They asked him what exactly had happened. He replied: "Hold fast to your innate nature, whatever may happen—that is what it taught me." Its nature is to sting, and it stung, regardless of whom or how. The nature of a human being is to attain Jnana (wisdom) and Ananda (bliss)—this is the essence of a human being. Love is the circulatory system that sustains him; peace is the vision that guides and leads him.<br /> Divine Discourse, April 22, 1967<br /> <br /> God will dwell in the hearts of those who are filled with concern for the poor and strive to serve them.<br /> <br /> BABA</div>

 

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Do not hesitate to ask such questions: "Is He God or not? How can He say that He is God? Where does God live?" Those who have such doubts are, in fact, fools. They are undoubtedly fools. God is everywhere, in every person. You cannot see Him because of your bad qualities. Because of them, you see evil everywhere. You see everything in the color of the glasses you wear. God is immanent in everything. In fact, you are God. But you cannot see the God who is within you. What is the reason? You have fallen victim to selfishness, which has completely blinded you.
From the Divine Discourse of June 18, 1996, in Sai Kulwant Hall, Prashanti Nilayam

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<div class="bbWrapper">Do not hesitate to ask such questions: "Is He God or not? How can He say that He is God? Where does God live?" Those who have such doubts are, in fact, fools. They are undoubtedly fools. God is everywhere, in every person. You cannot see Him because of your bad qualities. Because of them, you see evil everywhere. You see everything in the color of the glasses you wear. God is immanent in everything. In fact, you are God. But you cannot see the God who is within you. What is the reason? You have fallen victim to selfishness, which has completely blinded you.<br /> From the Divine Discourse of June 18, 1996, in Sai Kulwant Hall, Prashanti Nilayam</div>

 

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A mind that does not know God is like a dry leaf, rising with every breath of wind and falling when the wind subsides. But a mind focused on God is like a rock, steady and free from doubts and wavering. God whom people worship and meditate upon is called Hiranyagarbha—the Golden Womb, the Source of Creation, the All-Pervading Divinity that wished to manifest and become many.

The epithet “golden” is very appropriate, for Gold is a Noble Metal from which various pieces of jewelry are made to suit people’s tastes and needs. The image of God is likewise shaped by the human imagination. People give Him majestic, enchanting, or frightening Forms, before which they pour out their fears, desires, and dreams. They accept Them as their Friends, Lords, or Teachers. But however a person may imagine God, God remains Unchanged. He is Gold, the unchanging foundation of all golden ornaments.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, 21 October 1969

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<div class="bbWrapper">A mind that does not know God is like a dry leaf, rising with every breath of wind and falling when the wind subsides. But a mind focused on God is like a rock, steady and free from doubts and wavering. God whom people worship and meditate upon is called Hiranyagarbha—the Golden Womb, the Source of Creation, the All-Pervading Divinity that wished to manifest and become many.<br /> <br /> The epithet “golden” is very appropriate, for Gold is a Noble Metal from which various pieces of jewelry are made to suit people’s tastes and needs. The image of God is likewise shaped by the human imagination. People give Him majestic, enchanting, or frightening Forms, before which they pour out their fears, desires, and dreams. They accept Them as their Friends, Lords, or Teachers. But however a person may imagine God, God remains Unchanged. He is Gold, the unchanging foundation of all golden ornaments.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, 21 October 1969</div>