Learning Through Reading

1313 · Jun 20, 2023

Why are our thoughts and emotions so important, and why must we constantly strive to purify them? Bhagawan explains with love, drawing our attention to an interesting fact in the Bhagavatam.

The difference between a human being and a demon is determined solely by their qualities. Demons do not have any unusual physical features, as they are depicted in films and books. They, too, are human beings. It is only a person’s own qualities that turn them into a demon. The Bhagavatam contains a wonderful example. Krishna Himself was the Lord. His parents, Devaki and Vasudeva, were true human beings. Devaki’s brother, Kamsa, was a demon. Thus, all three categories—divine, human, and demonic—can exist even within one family! Kamsa was a demon because of his anger and cruelty. Devaki and Vasudeva were human because of their kindness and compassion. Possessing divine qualities that surpassed all other characteristics, Krishna was God.
Chapter 8, Summer Showers 1995

Give up worldly company and association with those who are infected with demonic qualities. Always seek the company of wise and kind people.

—BABA

1313 · Jun 21, 2023

PRAYER.
Lord!
Take my Love; let it flow as a stream of Devotion to You. Lord! Take my Hands; let them work tirelessly for You. Lord! Take my Soul; let it merge into oneness with You. Lord! Take my Mind and Thoughts; let them attune themselves to one
rhythm with You.
Lord! Take all that is Mine; let me become an Instrument working for You.

With Love and Grace,
Sathya Sai Baba.

1313 · Jun 22, 2023

Can each of us participate in Bhagawan’s divine mission? What is the divine task for which He came? Bhagawan explains it to us clearly and convincingly today.

The purpose for which I have come is not to fulfill petty desires or deal with insignificant incidents. I must establish great truths. I must bring about significant changes in the human outlook. No one can stop Me or prevent Me from carrying out the tasks for which I have come, namely, to establish the one Eternal Truth. You have a role to play in realizing the Sai mission before us. Establishing dharma is a task we must undertake immediately, and I hope that you will all play your part, however insignificant it may be, in carrying out Sai’s work. Since everything is determined by truth, truth is not something that should yield to anything. Untruth subjugates practically everyone it comes into contact with. Truth never submits to anyone or anything. This form is the form of Sathya Sai, the embodiment of Truth.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Chapter 32, Summer Showers 1974

Sai’s Love and Grace soothe and comfort better than the sight of a beautiful flower or the sweet smile of an innocent child.
—BABA

1313 · Jun 23, 2023

If we look at things from the perspective of unity,
we see what they have in common and what unites them.
But if there is no feeling of unity at the foundation, then,
for example, looking at people, we will say that
one is wearing a blue shirt, another a red one, and a third a yellow one,
and this means that your eyes to a greater extent
pick out differences rather than similarities.
But if we put on blue glasses,
then all the shirts will seem blue.
Similarly, if we wear the glasses of prema—love,
then everything we see in the world will be prema.
If there is no prema within you,
will the world around you
be full of prema?
The Atharva Veda says: if you want
to see Brahman in everything, you must fill your vision with prema.
—Summer Showers in Brindavan—

1313 · Jun 24, 2023

What is the state of the society we see around us today, and how can we change the situation? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of the problem and also offers a solution.

It seems that educated people have no regard for moral values. They feel no gratitude toward those who helped them in difficult times. They do not care for their relatives and loved ones and cause them harm without hesitation. It is reported that students who have received many years of higher education have behaved disgracefully. After just a few months of married life, educated young men and women behave like uncultured people. Many lead miserable lives. What is the value of an education that does not enable a man to fulfill his duty toward his wife and children? The first essential requirement is to eliminate the bad qualities prevalent among educated people. They need to return to the path of morality and proper conduct. Many educated people have neither fear of committing sin nor love for God. Therefore, everyone should strive to rid themselves of their bad traits and cultivate divine qualities. A person must realize the Divine within. For this, the path of pure love is the best path!
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, April 2, 1984.

Life is a journey from “I” to “We” and “He.” Live in Love.
—BABA

1313 · Jun 25, 2023

What analysis should we, spiritual seekers, undertake when we encounter our shortcomings? Today Bhagavan lovingly explains this to us.

When seekers fail to follow a particular discipline, they need to seek out and understand the reason for their failure. Such analysis is necessary. Then they should ensure that this failing does not recur at the second stage. They must make every effort to guard themselves against it. In such matters, one must be quick and active, like a squirrel. Agility and vigilance must be combined with sharpness of intellect. All this can be attained only by remaining calm. Steady and unwavering earnestness is extremely important for preventing and overcoming conflicts in the mind. One must be calm and unperturbed. Courage, wise counsel, and steadfastness make the willpower (iccha-shakti) strong and firm. An illumined face, the sparkle of the eyes, a determined look, a noble voice, generous compassion, and unwavering kindness—these are the signs of developing and progressing willpower. A mind free from agitation and a joyful, flawless outlook are the signs of a person in whom peace has taken root!
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Chapter 6, Prashanti Vahini.

We can understand the workings of the Universe by becoming aware of the power and might of the mind.
—BABA

1313 · Jun 26, 2023

If you develop the awareness that you are a spark of God, that your reality is Divinity itself, you can truly become genuinely Divine and gain access to all the powers you need.
“Whatever you consider yourself to be, that is what you will become”—Yad bhaavam, thad bhavathi.
Have faith in the Atma, in the “I.”

Sathya Sai Baba.

1313 · Jun 28, 2023

Why do we need to have faith in the Lord’s Name and hold fast to it sincerely? Today Bhagavan lovingly reminds us of the precious examples of great devotees.

Believe that the Name is the boat that will carry you across the sea of worldly life. Chanting the Name is more effective than contemplating the Form. Draupadi did not send a chariot to bring Krishna to her aid; she cried out to His Name in agony, and Krishna responded and saved her from inevitable dishonor. In the Treta Yuga, when the events of the Ramayana took place, Nala and his monkeys were building a bridge across the sea to Lanka; they lowered into the water boulders on which they had written Rama’s sacred name, but discovered that the boulders drifted away because of the wind and waves. The boulders could not form a continuous bridge across which the army could pass. Then some ingenious person suggested writing “RA” on one boulder and “MA” on another, and they suddenly saw that the boulders had firmly joined together. The Name will also serve as a lifeline for you; it will strengthen your attachment to God and bestow His Grace upon you!
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
—Divine Discourse, October 24, 1965.

You can engage in any activity in life without fear of falling when His Name is the very breath of your life.
—Baba

1313 · Jun 29, 2023

What is the key to success, whether worldly or spiritual? On the sacred occasion of Bakrid, Bhagavan lovingly reminds us of the six qualities we should develop within ourselves.

Where these six qualities are present—diligence, determination, courage, intelligence, talent, and heroism—Divine help manifests. Embodiments of Love! In any field, at any time, anyone endowed with all these six precious qualities is guaranteed success. These qualities contribute to a person's overall prosperity. The greatest success comes to one who possesses all six qualities. However, these qualities encounter various difficulties from time to time. Just as a student has to take various examinations, these qualities too are put to the test. Such tests should be regarded as stepping stones to a person's higher achievements. The tests may come in the form of losses, troubles, pain, suffering, and slander. We must overcome these difficulties courageously and confidently and move forward. Students, in particular, should develop self-confidence. Without self-confidence, it is impossible to master these six qualities. In fact, self-confidence should be the life force of every person. — Divine Discourse, January 14, 1997

You should consider self-confidence the most important asset in life. Without self-confidence, you can never attain bliss.
— Baba

1313 · Jun 30, 2023

Why is it important not to fear the worst possible outcome? Which quality is best to develop within yourself? Bhagavan lovingly and with utmost clarity guides us today!

A person should always have a calm mind. Only then can the mind remain undisturbed. It is simply a matter of disciplining the mind—difficult at first, but mastered over time, enabling it to overcome any adversity and worry! An undisturbed mind is absolutely essential for every seeker who is moving forward; it is a very valuable quality. Such a mind gives true strength and happiness. Strive to develop it within yourself. Even if misfortune occurs, one should not lose heart. The mind should always be pure, unsullied, calm, and full of courage. Not regretting the past, and not hesitating in deciding current matters—these are the signs of a true seeker. Elation over gains, joys, and merriment; despondency over losses and misfortunes—these are natural qualities inherent in the entire human race. What, then, is the outstanding mastery of seekers? They should not forget the principle: remain attentive and joyfully accept the inevitable. When difficulties and losses come crashing down upon you, do not lose heart or rush into any action; calmly reflect on how they arose. In an atmosphere of calm, try to find some simple ways to overcome or prevent them.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
— Chapter 6, Prashanti Vahini.

Calmness is absolutely essential for a sharp mind. Haste and anxiety confuse the mind.
— Baba

1313 · Jul 1, 2023

What quality helps us become rooted in the reality of the present moment? Today, Bhagavan lovingly reminds us of this through a short story.

Contentment, humility, and detachment—all these keep you on the path of Truth. A street vendor walking through the bazaar had a basket full of empty bottles on his head. He hoped to sell them for ten rupees and calculated that in ten days his earnings would amount to one hundred rupees. With these savings, he planned to move on to more profitable forms of trade, through which, as he imagined, he would be able to accumulate one hundred thousand rupees within a few months and build a bungalow with a beautiful garden, tended by many radiant, smiling servants. Then he saw himself sitting on a sofa in the shade of the plants and playing with his grandchildren. While absorbed in this enchanting scene, he noticed among his grandchildren the children of one of the servants; he became angry at this unwelcome appearance without an invitation. Believing in his fantasy, he suddenly grabbed the child and hurriedly pushed him, only to discover that the basket of bottles had fallen onto the road and even his hopes of ten rupees had been shattered! This was the end of a dream built on the fragile foundation of greed. — Divine Discourse, October 24, 1965

Contentment cannot be attained by an ignorant person who piles one desire upon another and builds one plan after another, who is forever complaining, always worrying, and setting the heart ablaze with greed.

— Baba

1313 · Jul 2, 2023

Why should we engage in spiritual practices regularly? Bhagavan lovingly explains this to us through memorable and easy-to-understand examples, so that we may be diligent and sincere in our practice.

I have been told that you aspire to spirituality (sadhakas), and therefore I shall speak to you about sadhana (spiritual practice). Good. What is sadhana essentially? It is “upavasa,” “upasana.” Upa means near, Asana means a seated position, and Vasam means dwelling. We sit near an air conditioner so that we may feel cool. We sit near God in order to acquire divine qualities and get rid of ungodly qualities. God is not an external device or mechanism, like an air conditioner. He is the Antaryamin, the Inner Guide, the Inner Reality, the Invisible Foundation upon which this entire manifested world rests. He is like a source of fire hidden in wood, which can manifest when one piece of wood is vigorously rubbed against another. The flame produced burns the wood in the fire! Satsang (the company of virtuous and pious people) enables you to meet others with similar outlooks and creates the contact that kindles the Inner Fire!
-Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, May 10, 1969

It is not enough simply to associate with a spiritual community; fill your hearts with the divine teachings of such a worthy community.
— Baba

1313 · Jul 3, 2023

What is the most important virtue that students—and indeed, all of us—should develop within ourselves? Bhagawan lovingly guides and inspires us today.

Vishwamitra, relying on his mind, physical strength, and the power of his weapons, tried to wage war against Vasishta, who relied solely on Divine power. In the end, he realized the truth that his strength was useless compared with spiritual power and, abandoning his kingdom, deeply repented. Physical strength is not strength to any degree. It is actually a sign of weakness. All physical powers are essentially useless. All worldly wealth is impermanent. Today, people chase these fleeting pleasures, forgetting their inherent Divinity. Students should develop self-confidence and manifest Divinity in their speech, songs, sports, and all other activities. However, weakness may occasionally reappear. Students reveal their inner weakness in situations when, for example, they give in to anxiety and sorrow and cannot accept loss. Students must face such situations with complete fortitude. Be fearless. When you courageously face difficulties, you will certainly succeed. Therefore, be self-confident and achieve success in all areas of life.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, January 14, 1997

Self-confidence leads to self-satisfaction, selflessness, and ultimately, self-realization.
— Baba

1313 · Jul 4, 2023

What qualities should we look for in a true Guru? Today, as we celebrate the holy day of Guru Purnima, Bhagawan tells us about them and explains their significance.

A true Guru is one who has no ego or selfishness and who can raise the shishya (disciple) to his own level. Putting on a saffron robe, reciting a few mantras, and expounding a few texts—such are many gurus nowadays. The signs of a true Guru are generosity, absolute selflessness, purity of life, freedom from greed and envy, and equal regard for all. Freedom from envy is an essential quality of both the Guru and the shishya, since envy is the root cause of many evils. The role of the Guru is to lead the disciple along the path that leads to God. He should show the disciple the true purpose of each of his sense organs—his eyes, tongue, and limbs. All the sense organs should be used to know and practically experience the Divine. This is precisely what Tyagaraja and Pothana praised in their songs. Every action in daily life should be transformed into an act of devotion to God.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, July 13, 1984

Your true Guru is God alone. He is the only one who can dispel the darkness of ignorance and light the lamp of Wisdom.
- Baba

1313 · Jul 5, 2023

Many theories have been proposed to achieve an equal distribution of resources in society, but which one is the best? Today, Bhagavan clearly explains this to us.

Today, plans to build a new society can be heard about all over the world. Universal provision of basic necessities and various conveniences, as well as an equal distribution of wealth—these are the declared goals of this movement. Perhaps this is desirable. But is it feasible in practice? It is possible to distribute property and possessions, conveniences and comforts evenly. But is it possible to equally limit everyone’s desires? If desires are not limited to the same extent, disappointment will inevitably arise. The socialist doctrine is an important concept. But it is no less important to recognize the reality of God as the original source of everything that exists in the world. According to the Indian sages, the source of the food people consume, the power that sustains all living beings, and the foundation of all objects of creation is God. It is precisely because this fundamental truth has been forgotten that the world today is gripped by hunger, conflicts, wars, and disorder. — Divine Discourse, July 13, 1984.

God is the source of all energy. If we do not realize this, we will be unable to appreciate the true source of the air we breathe, the light we enjoy, and the warmth that sustains life.

— Babá

1313 · Jul 6, 2023

Devotee: Swami, how can we distinguish the voice of conscience from other voices?

Swami: When many voices are heard, this may be called conscious perception, but not conscience. Conscious perception relates to the little “I” (the ego); it is connected with the mind. There may be many voices and distinctions here. But the voice of conscience is always one. It is not subject to change. You must distinguish between these concepts.

( Swami then explained the following concepts: conscious perception, conscience, and consciousness. Conscious perception relates to the objective world with all its many and diverse objects and phenomena.

Pure consciousness, or Chaitanya, is the Supreme Spirit, the Supreme Awareness, representing the One Omnipresent Reality. Conscience proceeds from Pure Consciousness and is the inner voice of Truth. Conscience is the soul, the divine spark. In our spiritual ascent, we progress from the worldly level to the Divinity dwelling in the heart—that is, from conscious perception to conscience and then to the ultimate Supreme Reality, Pure Consciousness, corresponding to the three stages of spiritual life. Swami said: “This is the path shown by Jesus, and it is also your path.” )

Spiritual Teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Upadesha (spiritual teachings)

1313 · Jul 7, 2023

Understand that God has given you a body only so that you may enjoy the sweetness of Love. The sweet fruit of love is present in every person’s life. To taste this fruit, you only need to remove the peel. Once you have peeled it, you should also remove the bitter seeds inside it. Then you can squeeze out the sweet juice, drink it, and discard the pulp. Remove the peel of egoism and boastfulness. Remove all the seeds of bad intentions, thoughts, and actions. Get rid of the pulp of possessiveness and attachment. Then only the sweet juice of love will remain. You are all farmers. To cultivate your heart, you must engage in spiritual practices. Is uncultivated land of any use? Do not waste your life; cultivate the field of your heart, focus on its improvement, and enjoy the sweetness of Divinity.

From Bhagavan’s discourse of February 24, 2005 ("My Dear Students," Volume 2, Chapter 9)

1313 · Jul 8, 2023

What is the secret of perfection in action? Bhagavan lovingly reminds us of it so that we may find fulfillment in everything we do.

Every action in daily life should be transformed into an act of devotion to God. In Kashi (Benares), the municipal authorities appointed several people to maintain the street lighting. One of these workers was a sadhaka (a spiritually aspiring person). He had to fill the lamps with oil and clean the lamp glass that protected the flame from the wind. He approached each lamp while chanting the glory of Rama, cleaned the glass, and lit the lamp as he sang. The municipal authorities noticed that the lamps on the streets where this sadhaka lit them shone more brightly than those elsewhere. They discovered that the great devotee lit the lamps with devotion to God, which explained their exceptional brilliance. The moral of the story is this: when you perform any action in a spirit of devotion, as an offering to God, you can experience joy and attain fulfillment.
— Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Divine Discourse, July 13, 1984.

When you perform any work as an offering to the Lord, your own good, the greater good, and the highest good (svartha, parartha, and paramartha) all become one.
— Baba

1313 · Jul 9, 2023

What assurance did Swami give each of His devotees, and what attitude does He expect from us in return? Bhagawan lovingly reminds us of this today.

There is not the slightest trace of selfishness in Swami’s Prema (Divine Love). It is absolutely pure. Swami knows only how to give, not how to receive. Swami’s hand is extended upward in order to give something, not to seek anything. Moreover, as soon as Swami declared, “You are Mine,” no matter what wrong paths you may choose, Swami will not abandon you. One may ask: why should someone whom Swami has accepted as “You are Mine” have to face difficulties and troubles? These troubles are the consequences of your own karma. You must ensure that your conduct is righteous. If, for example, the Lord blesses a person with a hundred years of life, that person should not become puffed up with pride and jump from a tree, confident that they will live for a hundred years. They may live for a hundred years, but break their leg when they fall. Therefore, while accepting God’s blessing, one must also strive to lead a righteous life.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, July 13, 1984.

Whatever you do, wherever you may be, remember that I am with you and in you. This will save you from vanity and mistakes.
- Baba

1313 · Jul 10, 2023

What is the importance of satsang? How should those who are fortunate enough to be in satsang make use of it? Today, Bhagawan points out the way to achieve success in sadhana.

Satsang means meeting with “Sat,” that “Sat” which is referred to in the praise of God as Sat-Chit-Ananda. “Sat” is the Principle of Being, the “Being” that is the fundamental truth of the Universe. Unite with Truth, with the “Sat” within you, with Sathya (Reality), upon which Mithya (falsehood) has been superimposed by minds that do not see the light. By abiding in this “Sat,” the flame blazes up, it becomes brighter, darkness disappears, and Jnana Bhaskara (the Sun of Wisdom) rises. When solid rock lies beneath the surface, one must drill deeper to obtain an inexhaustible source of pure water. The softer the soil beneath your feet, the sooner success will come. Make your heart soft—then success in sadhana will come quickly. Speak softly, speak pleasantly, speak only about God—this is the process of softening the soil. Develop compassion and empathy; engage in service, empathize with the suffering caused by poverty, illness, misfortune, and despair, and share both tears and joy with others. This is the way to soften the heart and succeed in sadhana.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
- Divine Discourse, May 10, 1969.

As you expand your love, your bliss will also expand to the same extent.
- Baba