Learning Through Reading

[1313]

Do not treat your talents with disdain. If you delve deeply within yourself, you will be able to discover the Source of Immense Power. Millions of tiny ants crawling over a rock can wear a deep groove along their path.

Even the tiny feet of ants possess this power. You may have seen depressions forming in the granite surfaces of village ponds because clay pots are constantly placed on them. Although the pots are made of clay, over many years they wear away even the hardest granite.

You are Embodiments of the Divine Higher Self (Atma Swarupam), not embodiments of weakness (appa swarupam). Your Essence is a powerful generator capable of producing immense energy. A Spiritual Teacher (Guru) can show you the Goal (Guri), but you must generate the strength to attain it yourselves through Spiritual practice (Sadhana).

Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, November 23, 1964

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<div class="bbWrapper">Do not treat your talents with disdain. If you delve deeply within yourself, you will be able to discover the Source of Immense Power. Millions of tiny ants crawling over a rock can wear a deep groove along their path.<br /> <br /> Even the tiny feet of ants possess this power. You may have seen depressions forming in the granite surfaces of village ponds because clay pots are constantly placed on them. Although the pots are made of clay, over many years they wear away even the hardest granite.<br /> <br /> You are Embodiments of the Divine Higher Self (Atma Swarupam), not embodiments of weakness (appa swarupam). Your Essence is a powerful generator capable of producing immense energy. A Spiritual Teacher (Guru) can show you the Goal (Guri), but you must generate the strength to attain it yourselves through Spiritual practice (Sadhana).<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> Divine Discourse, November 23, 1964</div>

 

[1313]

Chaitanya present in the human body is called “conscience.” Chaitanya pervading all creation is called “consciousness.” When an individual understands the principle of unity in diversity, “conscience” becomes “consciousness.” Although a person is endowed with the sacred power of awareness, they are misled by the whimsical manifestations of this world. They attach importance to the New Year, which passes so quickly, whereas in reality importance should be given only to unchanging “time,” sanctifying it through the careful use of every minute.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba, January 1, 2003

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<div class="bbWrapper">Chaitanya present in the human body is called “conscience.” Chaitanya pervading all creation is called “consciousness.” When an individual understands the principle of unity in diversity, “conscience” becomes “consciousness.” Although a person is endowed with the sacred power of awareness, they are misled by the whimsical manifestations of this world. They attach importance to the New Year, which passes so quickly, whereas in reality importance should be given only to unchanging “time,” sanctifying it through the careful use of every minute.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba, January 1, 2003</div>

 

[1313]

How can we cultivate love and increase it day by day? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this today.

Whatever you do toward yourself or others, do it without forgetting the omnipresence of God. He sees, hears, and knows everything. Whatever you say, remember that God hears every word you utter; distinguish truth from falsehood and speak only the truth. Whatever you do, distinguish good from evil and do only good. At every moment, strive to be aware of God's omnipotence. The body is the temple of the individual (jiva), so everything that happens in the temple affects the individual himself. Similarly, the world is the body of the Lord, and everything that happens in it, good and bad, affects the Lord Himself! On the basis of the observable fact of a person and their body, the truth of the unobservable fact of the Lord and the world is understood! The relationship between a person and God—the kinship between them—can be understood by anyone who masters three main instruments: (1) a mind unstained by attachment and hatred, (2) speech unstained by falsehood, and (3) a body unstained by violence! — Prema Vahini, Chapter 19.

A heart filled with compassion is truly the altar of God.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">How can we cultivate love and increase it day by day? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this today.<br /> <br /> Whatever you do toward yourself or others, do it without forgetting the omnipresence of God. He sees, hears, and knows everything. Whatever you say, remember that God hears every word you utter; distinguish truth from falsehood and speak only the truth. Whatever you do, distinguish good from evil and do only good. At every moment, strive to be aware of God's omnipotence. The body is the temple of the individual (jiva), so everything that happens in the temple affects the individual himself. Similarly, the world is the body of the Lord, and everything that happens in it, good and bad, affects the Lord Himself! On the basis of the observable fact of a person and their body, the truth of the unobservable fact of the Lord and the world is understood! The relationship between a person and God—the kinship between them—can be understood by anyone who masters three main instruments: (1) a mind unstained by attachment and hatred, (2) speech unstained by falsehood, and (3) a body unstained by violence! — Prema Vahini, Chapter 19.<br /> <br /> A heart filled with compassion is truly the altar of God.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

How can we perform our duties as true instruments of the Lord? Bhagawan lovingly explains to us today.

The seer should not become attached to what is seen—this is the path to liberation. Contact between the sense organs and their objects gives rise to desire and attachment. These desires bring either elation or despair. Then fear of loss or sorrow over failure arises, and the chain of reactions grows longer. When many doors and windows are open to every wind, how can the flame of a lamp survive? This lamp flame is the mind, which must burn steadily, unaffected by the conflicting demands of the external world. Complete surrender to the Lord is one way of closing the windows and doors, for when you are in the state of Sharanagati (complete surrender to God), you are free from ego, and therefore neither joy nor sorrow can disturb you. Complete surrender enables you to rely on the Lord’s grace to overcome all the crises in your destiny, makes you more courageous and resilient, and prepares you for the struggle. — Divine Discourse, January 13, 1965.

Devotion and faith are the two oars with which you can ferry your boat across the sea of worldly life.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">How can we perform our duties as true instruments of the Lord? Bhagawan lovingly explains to us today.<br /> <br /> The seer should not become attached to what is seen—this is the path to liberation. Contact between the sense organs and their objects gives rise to desire and attachment. These desires bring either elation or despair. Then fear of loss or sorrow over failure arises, and the chain of reactions grows longer. When many doors and windows are open to every wind, how can the flame of a lamp survive? This lamp flame is the mind, which must burn steadily, unaffected by the conflicting demands of the external world. Complete surrender to the Lord is one way of closing the windows and doors, for when you are in the state of Sharanagati (complete surrender to God), you are free from ego, and therefore neither joy nor sorrow can disturb you. Complete surrender enables you to rely on the Lord’s grace to overcome all the crises in your destiny, makes you more courageous and resilient, and prepares you for the struggle. — Divine Discourse, January 13, 1965.<br /> <br /> Devotion and faith are the two oars with which you can ferry your boat across the sea of worldly life.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

On the occasion of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, what lesson should we learn and what should we pay attention to? Bhagawan lovingly explains the hidden meaning of a story from the Puranas!

The legend of Samudramanthana (the churning of the ocean) is of immense value to us, because we too should churn the ocean of our hearts and obtain our own special nectar. The legend is merely a reminder. A heart filled with Sattva Guna (purity) is the ocean of milk; continuous contemplation of the Divine (manana), as our own reality or as the ideal to be attained, is like Mandara, the churning rod immersed in the ocean. Vasuki, the serpent coiled around the churning rod, represents the senses, which emit poisonous fumes in the process of churning. The rope is held by good and bad impulses; both struggle with the churning process and are directed toward the results on which the heart is focused. The Lord’s grace is to come in the form of a Tortoise, for the Lord Himself comes to help when He knows that you are earnestly seeking the secret of Immortality. He comes quietly and unobtrusively, like a tortoise, preserving the process of manana intact and serving as a stable foundation for all spiritual practices. Much emerges from the mind during the churning, but the wise patiently await the appearance of the guarantor of Immortality and eagerly seize it. Such is the lesson of this legend.

Divine Discourse, January 13, 1965

Where the air is filled with the magnificent and fragrant chanting of the Lord’s name, there is true Vaikuntha.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">On the occasion of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, what lesson should we learn and what should we pay attention to? Bhagawan lovingly explains the hidden meaning of a story from the Puranas!<br /> <br /> The legend of Samudramanthana (the churning of the ocean) is of immense value to us, because we too should churn the ocean of our hearts and obtain our own special nectar. The legend is merely a reminder. A heart filled with Sattva Guna (purity) is the ocean of milk; continuous contemplation of the Divine (manana), as our own reality or as the ideal to be attained, is like Mandara, the churning rod immersed in the ocean. Vasuki, the serpent coiled around the churning rod, represents the senses, which emit poisonous fumes in the process of churning. The rope is held by good and bad impulses; both struggle with the churning process and are directed toward the results on which the heart is focused. The Lord’s grace is to come in the form of a Tortoise, for the Lord Himself comes to help when He knows that you are earnestly seeking the secret of Immortality. He comes quietly and unobtrusively, like a tortoise, preserving the process of manana intact and serving as a stable foundation for all spiritual practices. Much emerges from the mind during the churning, but the wise patiently await the appearance of the guarantor of Immortality and eagerly seize it. Such is the lesson of this legend.<br /> <br /> Divine Discourse, January 13, 1965<br /> <br /> Where the air is filled with the magnificent and fragrant chanting of the Lord’s name, there is true Vaikuntha.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

As spiritual aspirants, how can we accelerate our progress toward the Divine in the new calendar year? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this today.

It is more beneficial for spiritual aspirants to seek out and eliminate their shortcomings than to seek out and extol their virtues. Aspirants who seek their shortcomings can progress more quickly: they are not held back by fear or anxiety, and they can live with faith in the Lord, to whom they have entrusted all their burdens! They attain a state of peace of mind, which is a sign of a true seeker. Arjuna attained this state, and then Krishna imparted to him—and through him to all humanity—the teaching that grants immortality. For whom was the Gita intended? Think about this for at least a moment! Milk is taken from the udder not for the cow herself, since cows do not drink their own milk. Arjuna, like a calf, had already drunk his fill, and Krishna is always content and needs nothing, least of all milk! For whose sake, then, did Krishna “milk” the Upanishads to obtain the Gita? Krishna explains it as follows. It is for those whose minds are calmed by goodness and governed by virtue. — Gita Vahini, Ch. 3.

Goodness is another name for God. When goodness is absent, how can one understand God?

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">As spiritual aspirants, how can we accelerate our progress toward the Divine in the new calendar year? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this today.<br /> <br /> It is more beneficial for spiritual aspirants to seek out and eliminate their shortcomings than to seek out and extol their virtues. Aspirants who seek their shortcomings can progress more quickly: they are not held back by fear or anxiety, and they can live with faith in the Lord, to whom they have entrusted all their burdens! They attain a state of peace of mind, which is a sign of a true seeker. Arjuna attained this state, and then Krishna imparted to him—and through him to all humanity—the teaching that grants immortality. For whom was the Gita intended? Think about this for at least a moment! Milk is taken from the udder not for the cow herself, since cows do not drink their own milk. Arjuna, like a calf, had already drunk his fill, and Krishna is always content and needs nothing, least of all milk! For whose sake, then, did Krishna “milk” the Upanishads to obtain the Gita? Krishna explains it as follows. It is for those whose minds are calmed by goodness and governed by virtue. — Gita Vahini, Ch. 3.<br /> <br /> Goodness is another name for God. When goodness is absent, how can one understand God?<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[5728]

When you realize your true Essence
You see that it has neither beginning nor end
You cease your search, leaving only the Path
Leading to the most important door of the inner Paradise Author unknown

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<div class="bbWrapper">When you realize your true Essence<br /> You see that it has neither beginning nor end<br /> You cease your search, leaving only the Path<br /> Leading to the most important door of the inner Paradise Author unknown</div>

 

[1313]

How can we fulfill our duties as true instruments of the Lord? Bhagawan lovingly explains this to us today.

The seer should not become attached to what is seen—this is the path to liberation. Contact between the sense organs and their objects gives rise to desire and attachment. These desires lead either to elation or despair. Then fear of loss or grief over failure arises, and the chain of reactions grows longer. When many doors and windows are open to every wind, how can the flame of a lamp survive? This lamp flame is the mind, which must burn steadily, undisturbed by the conflicting demands of the external world. Complete devotion to the Lord is one way of closing the windows and doors, for when you are in the state of Sharanagati (complete surrender to God), you are free from ego, and therefore neither joy nor sorrow can disturb you. Complete surrender allows you to rely on the Lord’s grace to overcome all crises in your destiny, making you more courageous, resilient, and prepared for the struggle. — Divine Discourse, January 13, 1965.

Devotion and faith are the two oars with which you can ferry your boat across the ocean of worldly life.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

🔊 Listen ⏹ Stop 🌐 Choose language

<div class="bbWrapper">How can we fulfill our duties as true instruments of the Lord? Bhagawan lovingly explains this to us today.<br /> <br /> The seer should not become attached to what is seen—this is the path to liberation. Contact between the sense organs and their objects gives rise to desire and attachment. These desires lead either to elation or despair. Then fear of loss or grief over failure arises, and the chain of reactions grows longer. When many doors and windows are open to every wind, how can the flame of a lamp survive? This lamp flame is the mind, which must burn steadily, undisturbed by the conflicting demands of the external world. Complete devotion to the Lord is one way of closing the windows and doors, for when you are in the state of Sharanagati (complete surrender to God), you are free from ego, and therefore neither joy nor sorrow can disturb you. Complete surrender allows you to rely on the Lord’s grace to overcome all crises in your destiny, making you more courageous, resilient, and prepared for the struggle. — Divine Discourse, January 13, 1965.<br /> <br /> Devotion and faith are the two oars with which you can ferry your boat across the ocean of worldly life.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

As we begin the new year, what should we continue doing, and what should we do differently? Today, Bhagavan lovingly reminds us of this through His blessings, so that we may engage in self-examination and practice.

Today the New Year has begun. Nurture the spirit of love within yourself through spiritual experiences and divine thoughts. God cannot be found apart from you in temples or ashrams. Truth is God. Love is God. Dharma is God. When you worship God by following these principles, He will reveal Himself here and now. There is no doubt about this. Love God with all your heart. Pray to God and befriend Him. You can achieve anything if God is your friend. Learn today to fill your heart with love and adorn your hands with the ornament of sacrifice. Sacrifice is a jewel for the hands. Truth is the necklace you should wear. In the New Year, you should develop the habit of adorning yourself with these jewels. In this New Year, cultivate divine love and strengthen peace in the country. Pray with deep feeling: Loka samastha sukhino bhavantu (May the whole world be happy)! Begin the New Year with this prayer. Then you will lead a blissful and peaceful life filled with enthusiasm.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
— Divine Discourse, March 18, 1999.

The prosperity of a nation depends on how people use their time to perform good deeds.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">As we begin the new year, what should we continue doing, and what should we do differently? Today, Bhagavan lovingly reminds us of this through His blessings, so that we may engage in self-examination and practice.<br /> <br /> Today the New Year has begun. Nurture the spirit of love within yourself through spiritual experiences and divine thoughts. God cannot be found apart from you in temples or ashrams. Truth is God. Love is God. Dharma is God. When you worship God by following these principles, He will reveal Himself here and now. There is no doubt about this. Love God with all your heart. Pray to God and befriend Him. You can achieve anything if God is your friend. Learn today to fill your heart with love and adorn your hands with the ornament of sacrifice. Sacrifice is a jewel for the hands. Truth is the necklace you should wear. In the New Year, you should develop the habit of adorning yourself with these jewels. In this New Year, cultivate divine love and strengthen peace in the country. Pray with deep feeling: Loka samastha sukhino bhavantu (May the whole world be happy)! Begin the New Year with this prayer. Then you will lead a blissful and peaceful life filled with enthusiasm.<br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba<br /> — Divine Discourse, March 18, 1999.<br /> <br /> The prosperity of a nation depends on how people use their time to perform good deeds.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

The legend of Samudramanthana (the churning of the ocean) is of immense value to us, because we, too, should churn the ocean of our hearts and obtain our own special nectar. The legend is merely a reminder. A heart filled with Sattva Guna (purity) is the ocean of milk; continuous contemplation of the Divine (manana), as our own reality or as the ideal to be attained, is like Mandara, the churning rod immersed in the ocean. Vasuki, the serpent coiled around the churning rod, represents the senses, which release poisonous fumes during the process of churning. The rope is held by good and bad impulses; both struggle with the churning process and are directed toward the results on which the heart is focused. The Lord's grace is to come in the form of a Tortoise, for the Lord Himself comes to help when He knows that you are earnestly seeking the secret of Immortality. He comes quietly and unobtrusively, like a tortoise, preserving the process of manana intact and serving as the stable foundation of all spiritual practices. Much emerges from the mind when it is churned, but the wise patiently await the emergence of the guarantor of Immortality and eagerly grasp it. Such is the lesson of this legend.

Divine Discourse, January 13, 1965

Where the air is filled with the magnificent and fragrant chanting of the Lord's name, there is true Vaikuntha.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

🔊 Listen ⏹ Stop 🌐 Choose language

<div class="bbWrapper">The legend of Samudramanthana (the churning of the ocean) is of immense value to us, because we, too, should churn the ocean of our hearts and obtain our own special nectar. The legend is merely a reminder. A heart filled with Sattva Guna (purity) is the ocean of milk; continuous contemplation of the Divine (manana), as our own reality or as the ideal to be attained, is like Mandara, the churning rod immersed in the ocean. Vasuki, the serpent coiled around the churning rod, represents the senses, which release poisonous fumes during the process of churning. The rope is held by good and bad impulses; both struggle with the churning process and are directed toward the results on which the heart is focused. The Lord's grace is to come in the form of a Tortoise, for the Lord Himself comes to help when He knows that you are earnestly seeking the secret of Immortality. He comes quietly and unobtrusively, like a tortoise, preserving the process of manana intact and serving as the stable foundation of all spiritual practices. Much emerges from the mind when it is churned, but the wise patiently await the emergence of the guarantor of Immortality and eagerly grasp it. Such is the lesson of this legend.<br /> <br /> Divine Discourse, January 13, 1965<br /> <br /> Where the air is filled with the magnificent and fragrant chanting of the Lord's name, there is true Vaikuntha.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

Concentrate on Me. Feel the atmosphere as a whole as a reflection of your inner being. Your heart is a Mandir; I dwell within it. You yourselves are the Ashram. And your worldly desires are the “outside.” In the “outside,” you move away from Me. In the Ashram, you have a greater chance of receiving what I give you. Do not be distracted. In the Mandir (your heart), you can truly see Me from time to time, but even there you may remain only halfway and fail to receive what I love to give.

Learn to use your time; concentrate every particle of your attention on Me. Be ready to receive an outpouring of My Grace at any time.

Be patient. Remember those who are in greater need, and know that everything you receive is an act of Grace and Love. Be open and free from the fantasies and projects of the mind. Simply be with Me, and I will be with you—this is the path to happiness and Realization.
Receive My Grace from any source. Be Loved and Blessed.

From a speech by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, March 28, 1996

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<div class="bbWrapper">Concentrate on Me. Feel the atmosphere as a whole as a reflection of your inner being. Your heart is a Mandir; I dwell within it. You yourselves are the Ashram. And your worldly desires are the “outside.” In the “outside,” you move away from Me. In the Ashram, you have a greater chance of receiving what I give you. Do not be distracted. In the Mandir (your heart), you can truly see Me from time to time, but even there you may remain only halfway and fail to receive what I love to give.<br /> <br /> Learn to use your time; concentrate every particle of your attention on Me. Be ready to receive an outpouring of My Grace at any time.<br /> <br /> Be patient. Remember those who are in greater need, and know that everything you receive is an act of Grace and Love. Be open and free from the fantasies and projects of the mind. Simply be with Me, and I will be with you—this is the path to happiness and Realization.<br /> Receive My Grace from any source. Be Loved and Blessed.<br /> <br /> From a speech by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, March 28, 1996</div>

 

[1313]

How much bliss will you attain if you devote 5 minutes out of 24 hours to worshipping the Lord? Prema and Seva (love and selfless service) are to a person what two wings are to a bird. To develop these two qualities, a person must cultivate threefold purity: of thoughts, words, and deeds. In addition, one must reduce one’s desires. Today, enormous amounts of money are spent on meaningless luxury, while at the same time people are reluctant to spend money on purchasing incense and aromatic sticks. What foolishness! The years pass. What is the use of time passing if there is no change in people’s minds? Time is priceless. It must be used for serving God. All actions must be dedicated to God. A person can realize the Lord only through renunciation. People have forgotten what sacrifice means. Sacrifice is yoga. Enjoyment is roga (disease). May your heart blossom every moment. This is how you should welcome the New Year. Realize your unity with the Divine.

Divine Discourse, April 13, 1996

Time is God! Therefore, we must respect time and spend it on useful activities.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">How much bliss will you attain if you devote 5 minutes out of 24 hours to worshipping the Lord? Prema and Seva (love and selfless service) are to a person what two wings are to a bird. To develop these two qualities, a person must cultivate threefold purity: of thoughts, words, and deeds. In addition, one must reduce one’s desires. Today, enormous amounts of money are spent on meaningless luxury, while at the same time people are reluctant to spend money on purchasing incense and aromatic sticks. What foolishness! The years pass. What is the use of time passing if there is no change in people’s minds? Time is priceless. It must be used for serving God. All actions must be dedicated to God. A person can realize the Lord only through renunciation. People have forgotten what sacrifice means. Sacrifice is yoga. Enjoyment is roga (disease). May your heart blossom every moment. This is how you should welcome the New Year. Realize your unity with the Divine.<br /> <br /> Divine Discourse, April 13, 1996<br /> <br /> Time is God! Therefore, we must respect time and spend it on useful activities.<br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

How much bliss will you attain if you devote 5 minutes out of 24 hours to worshipping the Lord? Prema and Seva (love and selfless service) are to a person what two wings are to a bird. To develop these two qualities, a person needs to develop threefold purity: of thoughts, words, and deeds. In addition, a person needs to reduce their desires. Today, enormous amounts of money are spent on meaningless luxury, while at the same time people are reluctant to spend money on incense and aromatic sticks. What foolishness! Years pass. What is the meaning of the passage of time if there is no change in people's minds? Time is precious. It must be used to serve God. All actions should be dedicated to God. A person can realize the Lord only through renunciation. People have forgotten what sacrifice means. Sacrifice is yoga. Pleasure is disease. May your heart blossom every moment. This is how you should welcome the New Year. Realize your unity with the Divine.

Divine Discourse, 13 April 1996

Time is God! Therefore, we must respect time and spend it on useful activities.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

🔊 Listen ⏹ Stop 🌐 Choose language

<div class="bbWrapper">How much bliss will you attain if you devote 5 minutes out of 24 hours to worshipping the Lord? Prema and Seva (love and selfless service) are to a person what two wings are to a bird. To develop these two qualities, a person needs to develop threefold purity: of thoughts, words, and deeds. In addition, a person needs to reduce their desires. Today, enormous amounts of money are spent on meaningless luxury, while at the same time people are reluctant to spend money on incense and aromatic sticks. What foolishness! Years pass. What is the meaning of the passage of time if there is no change in people's minds? Time is precious. It must be used to serve God. All actions should be dedicated to God. A person can realize the Lord only through renunciation. People have forgotten what sacrifice means. Sacrifice is yoga. Pleasure is disease. May your heart blossom every moment. This is how you should welcome the New Year. Realize your unity with the Divine. <br /> <br /> Divine Discourse, 13 April 1996 <br /> <br /> Time is God! Therefore, we must respect time and spend it on useful activities. <br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

Everyone in the world wishes for victory; no one wishes for defeat. Everyone longs for wealth; no one longs for poverty. But how can victory or wealth be attained? This must be examined and reflected upon. And we will not have to search long for the solution. Sanjaya, according to the Mahabharata, revealed this secret to King Dhritarashtra: "Wherever Krishna, the Lord of Yoga, and Arjuna, the Wielder of the Bow, are present, there victory will be achieved and wealth will be assured." Why do we need any other advice? To achieve victory, there is no need to engage in a threefold struggle—physical, mental, and intellectual. Nor is there any need to feel anxious or worried. There is no need to strive for wealth and prosperity. Take refuge in God and master the bow of courage—that is, keep your heart pure. This is enough. Victory and wealth are yours. But whenever you strive for victory and wealth, remind yourself that they are shadows, not material things.

—Vidya Vahini, ch. 9.

Do not place desires before God, for whatever He does with you, however He treats you, is a gift He chooses to give you!

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">Everyone in the world wishes for victory; no one wishes for defeat. Everyone longs for wealth; no one longs for poverty. But how can victory or wealth be attained? This must be examined and reflected upon. And we will not have to search long for the solution. Sanjaya, according to the Mahabharata, revealed this secret to King Dhritarashtra: "Wherever Krishna, the Lord of Yoga, and Arjuna, the Wielder of the Bow, are present, there victory will be achieved and wealth will be assured." Why do we need any other advice? To achieve victory, there is no need to engage in a threefold struggle—physical, mental, and intellectual. Nor is there any need to feel anxious or worried. There is no need to strive for wealth and prosperity. Take refuge in God and master the bow of courage—that is, keep your heart pure. This is enough. Victory and wealth are yours. But whenever you strive for victory and wealth, remind yourself that they are shadows, not material things.<br /> <br /> —Vidya Vahini, ch. 9. <br /> <br /> Do not place desires before God, for whatever He does with you, however He treats you, is a gift He chooses to give you! <br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

Why should we truly persevere in the spiritual practice (sadhana) we have chosen and repeat the Name of God? Bhagavan lovingly explains this to us today so that we may consistently practice our sadhana without abandoning it.*

The physical body, for which you crave all this comfort and luxury, is subject to injury and decay. One day it will become food for dogs and jackals.

The Creator, on the other hand, bestows the joy and awe of sacred love. Give Him your heart; He desires nothing else from you. He cannot be won by any other means: neither unlimited learning, nor pompous vows, nor elaborate rituals.

Of the human lifespan, one part is wasted in sleep; another is squandered in the pursuit of foolish desires, in the helpless ignorance of childhood and adolescence, in suffering, torment, and illness, and in the meaninglessness of old age.

Devote yourself to some worthwhile pursuit and beware of misusing it in the foolish pursuit of sensual pleasure. Use your precious years to contemplate the glory of God, to focus your mind even more firmly on His lotus feet, and thus carry yourself across the boundless ocean of births and deaths.

Therefore, always and under all circumstances, practice remembrance of the name of God with love and devotion.
Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">Why should we truly persevere in the spiritual practice (sadhana) we have chosen and repeat the Name of God? Bhagavan lovingly explains this to us today so that we may consistently practice our sadhana without abandoning it.*<br /> <br /> The physical body, for which you crave all this comfort and luxury, is subject to injury and decay. One day it will become food for dogs and jackals.<br /> <br /> The Creator, on the other hand, bestows the joy and awe of sacred love. Give Him your heart; He desires nothing else from you. He cannot be won by any other means: neither unlimited learning, nor pompous vows, nor elaborate rituals.<br /> <br /> Of the human lifespan, one part is wasted in sleep; another is squandered in the pursuit of foolish desires, in the helpless ignorance of childhood and adolescence, in suffering, torment, and illness, and in the meaninglessness of old age.<br /> <br /> Devote yourself to some worthwhile pursuit and beware of misusing it in the foolish pursuit of sensual pleasure. Use your precious years to contemplate the glory of God, to focus your mind even more firmly on His lotus feet, and thus carry yourself across the boundless ocean of births and deaths.<br /> <br /> Therefore, always and under all circumstances, practice remembrance of the name of God with love and devotion.<br /> Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

Love is God; live in love. God has no particular form. What form can you attribute to love? In this world, nothing exists outside form. A small example: a flower gives off fragrance. You can say that the flower has a form, but not its fragrance. Yet how can fragrance exist without a flower? Therefore, the flower is the form of fragrance. In the same way, a mother is the form of love, since love cannot be experienced without a mother. Therefore, everything in this world has a form. God is present in everything. You perceive differences in quality and quantity, but in reality there are no differences at all. That is whole, and this is whole. If the whole is subtracted from the whole, the whole remains. Everything is essentially divine.

God is present in everyone in His original form of love. In this play of life, God is both the actor and the director. He plays all the roles Himself. Understand that you are merely an actor in this play of life, and God is playing your role. God protects one person and punishes another, but in reality He is the one who experiences both states. God points to something as good and something else as bad, but in fact He is the cause of both good and bad. He is the foundation of everything. He is the actor, the director, and the spectator. He establishes the ideal in every aspect. First and foremost, you must understand this truth.

Dasara Sandesh, Divine Discourse by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, 22 October 2001

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<div class="bbWrapper">Love is God; live in love. God has no particular form. What form can you attribute to love? In this world, nothing exists outside form. A small example: a flower gives off fragrance. You can say that the flower has a form, but not its fragrance. Yet how can fragrance exist without a flower? Therefore, the flower is the form of fragrance. In the same way, a mother is the form of love, since love cannot be experienced without a mother. Therefore, everything in this world has a form. God is present in everything. You perceive differences in quality and quantity, but in reality there are no differences at all. That is whole, and this is whole. If the whole is subtracted from the whole, the whole remains. Everything is essentially divine.<br /> <br /> God is present in everyone in His original form of love. In this play of life, God is both the actor and the director. He plays all the roles Himself. Understand that you are merely an actor in this play of life, and God is playing your role. God protects one person and punishes another, but in reality He is the one who experiences both states. God points to something as good and something else as bad, but in fact He is the cause of both good and bad. He is the foundation of everything. He is the actor, the director, and the spectator. He establishes the ideal in every aspect. First and foremost, you must understand this truth.<br /> <br /> Dasara Sandesh, Divine Discourse by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, 22 October 2001</div>

 

[1313]

What is the benefit of prayer? Does God truly answer prayers, or is He merely a witness who gives us what we are destined to receive? Bhagawan lovingly resolves these doubts for us today.

If a devotee has surrendered everything to the Lord—body, mind, and existence—He Himself will take care of everything, for He will always be with the devotee! Under such circumstances, there is no need for prayer. But have you really surrendered yourself in this way and given everything to the Lord? No! When losses occur, calamities strike, or plans go awry, devotees blame the Lord. Others, on the other hand, pray to Him to save them! If you avoid both of these extremes and also rely on others, if you always trust the Lord completely, why should He deny you His grace? Why should He refrain from helping you? People do not rely on the Lord completely and unwaveringly. Although you must be the doer and the instrument through which everything is accomplished, continue to pray with devotion and faith. Faith is the product of peace, not haste. To receive the Lord’s grace and, consequently, realize His reality, inner peace is the foremost requirement.

- Prashanti Vahini, Ch. 7.

God can certainly help, but He expects you to use the strength and talents He has given you before seeking Divine help.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">What is the benefit of prayer? Does God truly answer prayers, or is He merely a witness who gives us what we are destined to receive? Bhagawan lovingly resolves these doubts for us today. <br /> <br /> If a devotee has surrendered everything to the Lord—body, mind, and existence—He Himself will take care of everything, for He will always be with the devotee! Under such circumstances, there is no need for prayer. But have you really surrendered yourself in this way and given everything to the Lord? No! When losses occur, calamities strike, or plans go awry, devotees blame the Lord. Others, on the other hand, pray to Him to save them! If you avoid both of these extremes and also rely on others, if you always trust the Lord completely, why should He deny you His grace? Why should He refrain from helping you? People do not rely on the Lord completely and unwaveringly. Although you must be the doer and the instrument through which everything is accomplished, continue to pray with devotion and faith. Faith is the product of peace, not haste. To receive the Lord’s grace and, consequently, realize His reality, inner peace is the foremost requirement. <br /> <br /> - Prashanti Vahini, Ch. 7.<br /> <br /> God can certainly help, but He expects you to use the strength and talents He has given you before seeking Divine help. <br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

What is the prerequisite for self-knowledge and the discovery of the Atma? Bhagawan lovingly guides us today so that we may choose the right direction.

The benefit we derive from anything is proportional to the faith we place in it. Whether worshipping deities, visiting holy places, reciting mantras, or consulting doctors, we benefit only to the extent of our faith. When someone gives a speech, the greater our faith in that person as a scholar and interpreter, the more clearly and directly we can absorb the essence of the speech into our hearts and understand it more deeply. To strengthen faith and develop understanding, purity of heart—or purity of kshetra (the field)—and purity of chitta (consciousness) are essential prerequisites. Without this purity, a hasty effort toward self-knowledge or inquiry into the self-existent Atma, amid the diverse snares of the worldly and material realm, will prove fruitless, as it will not arise from firm resolve. First, the chitta must be detached from the material world and turned inward toward awareness of the Atma.

- Vidya Vahini, Ch. 9.

One who has sound discrimination will naturally be righteous in conduct and actions before undertaking any activity.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">What is the prerequisite for self-knowledge and the discovery of the Atma? Bhagawan lovingly guides us today so that we may choose the right direction. <br /> <br /> The benefit we derive from anything is proportional to the faith we place in it. Whether worshipping deities, visiting holy places, reciting mantras, or consulting doctors, we benefit only to the extent of our faith. When someone gives a speech, the greater our faith in that person as a scholar and interpreter, the more clearly and directly we can absorb the essence of the speech into our hearts and understand it more deeply. To strengthen faith and develop understanding, purity of heart—or purity of kshetra (the field)—and purity of chitta (consciousness) are essential prerequisites. Without this purity, a hasty effort toward self-knowledge or inquiry into the self-existent Atma, amid the diverse snares of the worldly and material realm, will prove fruitless, as it will not arise from firm resolve. First, the chitta must be detached from the material world and turned inward toward awareness of the Atma. <br /> <br /> - Vidya Vahini, Ch. 9. <br /> <br /> One who has sound discrimination will naturally be righteous in conduct and actions before undertaking any activity. <br /> <br /> Sri Sathya Sai Baba</div>

 

[1313]

Every being needs love; every being inhales and exhales Love. Love is the breath of life; every person is an embodiment of Love. Love knows no fear, so it does not need the help of lies. Only fear makes people distort the truth in order to please those they fear. Love does not expect a reward; love itself is the reward. Even the slightest desire to gain a benefit turns love into a transaction. Love completely eliminates selfishness. When there is love, it becomes possible to transcend selfishness, disregard it, and drive it out.

Sathya Sai Baba, from the thought for the day, January 12, 2013.

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<div class="bbWrapper">Every being needs love; every being inhales and exhales Love. Love is the breath of life; every person is an embodiment of Love. Love knows no fear, so it does not need the help of lies. Only fear makes people distort the truth in order to please those they fear. Love does not expect a reward; love itself is the reward. Even the slightest desire to gain a benefit turns love into a transaction. Love completely eliminates selfishness. When there is love, it becomes possible to transcend selfishness, disregard it, and drive it out. <br /> <br /> Sathya Sai Baba, from the thought for the day, January 12, 2013.</div>

 

[1313]

You will have everything you need if you have love within you. Do not feel animosity toward anyone. This should become the ideal of your life. This is My message to you. Love is My only wealth. All these huge buildings do not belong to Me; they all belong to the devotees. For the sake of the devotees, I am ready to sacrifice even My body. May your life be happy and filled with bliss. I need only your love.

Your love makes Me happy. My love is your greatest wealth and the greatest of blessings. This is My greatest gift to you. Take care of it as you should. This is My blessing today. May your devotion be deep, and may your life be long and filled with holiness and happiness! May all difficulties be removed! May you all abide in constant bliss.
Sathya Sai Baba

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<div class="bbWrapper">You will have everything you need if you have love within you. Do not feel animosity toward anyone. This should become the ideal of your life. This is My message to you. Love is My only wealth. All these huge buildings do not belong to Me; they all belong to the devotees. For the sake of the devotees, I am ready to sacrifice even My body. May your life be happy and filled with bliss. I need only your love. <br /> <br /> Your love makes Me happy. My love is your greatest wealth and the greatest of blessings. This is My greatest gift to you. Take care of it as you should. This is My blessing today. May your devotion be deep, and may your life be long and filled with holiness and happiness! May all difficulties be removed! May you all abide in constant bliss.<br /> Sathya Sai Baba</div>