The Indian Dharma

In the previous episode, we had witnessed an extension of the important discussion on the various aspects of “Dharma”, as narrated by Sage Sukhaachaarya to King Parikshit. In the same line, we had previously discussed in detail about an important principle of “Dharma” called the “Brahmacharya” and its significance. Subsequently we touched upon yet another principle called “Thyaaga”. This means, “sacrifice” and “sacrificing the best of what we have, to the world”. In due course of yesterday’s discussion, we had witnessed quite a few real-time practices that many of us follow, when it comes to understanding what “Thyaaga” really is. When it comes to buying something for us, we go in for the most expensive brand and variety of products, whereas, when it comes to buying and gifting others, we unfortunately do not have that same level of interest. Even if by chance, we go in for an expensive product to gift others, we repeatedly keep telling them thus, “Oh, you know what? I’ve picked this expensive brand of product only for you. Hadn’t been you, I would have gone in for an inferior quality. So please use it carefully!” This is the attitude that we have to shun, if we’ve to become a “Dhaarmika”. Irrespective of whomever we’re giving something, we should always go in for the best of the best quality, rather than differentiating people and quality. This is called real “Thyaaga” and if we’re able to gain this level of maturity, we can be rest assured that we’re on track the “Dharma” way!

In fact, to go one step further, the Upanishads explain that without this “Thyaaga” quality in us, it is virtually impossible for us to attain “Moksha”. Let’s forget “Moksha” for a while – If we’re not able to inculcate this quality of “Thyaaga” or “Sharing” or “Sacrifice”, we cannot achieve anything in our daily life as well. For instance, we see many people who excel in various fields in life, isn’t it? Can they excel in their respective fields without sacrificing something? It is not possible. In life, only if we sacrifice something, we would be able to achieve something else. This is a universal rule. For instance, if we consider people who excel in sports such as running race, (100 meters, 200 meters, etc.) or swimming, or javelin throwing, or even cricket or football, etc. the way in which these sports stars maintain their physical body in an athletic condition is in itself a great lesson to learn for all of us. As part of maintaining their physical condition, they’ve to follow strict discipline, such as restricting their diet as per the prescribed amount, hitting the gym every day, go for jogging and exercise every morning, etc. Given these disciplinary measures, if at all they’ve to go for any marriage or an auspicious ceremony that might happen in their families, can they eat any sort of food just like that? The answer is “No”! The point here is that, they are able to excel in sports only by sacrificing their instincts of consuming whatever food they like. Similarly, a person who wants to become a doctor (a medical practitioner) has to sacrifice all personal luxuries, study hard for seven or eight years at a stretch, excel in all the examinations that he / she takes up and only then can become whatever he / she wants to, isn’t it? We see this in our daily lives as well.

Thus, the point here is that, without this “Thyaaga”, it is very difficult for us to succeed in anything whatever we do in life. If such is the case, how can we attain “Moksha” without any form of sacrifice? If we’re struggling hard and sacrificing many things to excel in something during this life time, shouldn’t we struggle and sacrifice the same way in order to attain “Moksha” as well? This is why the Upanishads explain to us that this quality called “Thyaaga” is extremely important for us to attain “Moksha”. And we should realize here that, when we talk of attaining “Moksha”, we’re sacrificing something for the sake of Bhagawan, and not for us. In our daily life instances, if we’ve to achieve something big, we would sacrifice lot of things for ourselves, isn’t it? But if we’ve to attain “Moksha”, we’ve to make sacrifices for Bhagawan, in such a way that our sacrifices would please Bhagawan’s heart. It is only through that, we attain “Moksha”. Thus, we should realize this important point from today’s discussion.

Moving on further, we go into the next aspect of “Dharma” that Sage Sukhaachaarya is talking about here. He now mentions something called “Swaadhyaaya aarjavam”. This means, we’ve to regularly chant Bhagawan’s divine names. It might be anything, ranging from few verses from the Vedas, few slokas from Bhagawad Gita, few from Bhaagawatha Puraana, Vishnu Sahasranaama, or whatever. But we should make it a habit that every day we would chant Bhagawan’s divine names atleast for few minutes. What is the significance of this aspect of “Dharma”? Let us wait till the next episode to find out! Stay tuned! 😊

 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the continuation of the discussion on the various aspects of “Dharma” as being narrated by Sage Sukhaachaarya to King Parikshit. Just to remind readers a little bit, we’re at the commencement of the eighth “Skandha” of the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana, wherein Sage Sukhaachaarya elaborates the various “Dharma” principles for various categories of people in this world. Some of these principles are common for all kinds of people as well and now, we’re witnessing these common principles. So far, we’ve discussed around eight to nine aspects of “Dharma” that Sage Sukhaachaarya narrates in detail, and in the last episode we had witnessed a very important “Dharma” called “Brahmacharya”. We had witnessed in detail, what is this “Brahmacharya” and who can follow this “Dharma”. We had said that all kinds of people, including married couples can adopt and follow “Brahmacharya”, provided we adhere strictly to certain austerities. For instance, as per the Vedas, there are certain days of the month / year during which, it would be better to avoid going behind sensual and physical pleasurable experiences as a couple. These days include some auspicious days like festivals, “Ekadashi”, etc. If we’re able to follow these norms correctly as prescribed by the Vedas, this itself is “Brahmacharya”. Of course, we also tried answering several questions surrounding this, and the final outcome of this discussion was that, all what we do should please Bhagawan’s heart. It is only through this, we attain Moksha. Hence, let us try and meticulously follow whatever we should.

Now moving on further, Sage Sukhaachaarya talks about the next aspect of “Dharma”, which is “Thyaaga”. What is this “Thyaaga”? It simply means the maturity of a person to give something to someone. As ardent followers of our “Sanaathana Dharma”, we should learn to give more and more to the world, rather than getting more and more! I shall narrate a small example to drive this point home – Imagine I’m a working professional and I earn a handsome amount of money from my job. Whenever I go to my workplace or even for a leisure trip with my family, I only wear branded apparels and nothing less than that. Now if someone comes to my doorstep and claims that he doesn’t have proper clothing owing to his financial inability to by clothes – What do I do? I immediately go to my wardrobe and start searching which dress can I offer him. I start picking out various shirts and trousers / jeans, etc. and my hands stumble upon one of my most expensive shirts ever! I would have bought that shirt with so much of passion for the brand and the look of it. In the background, I would think within myself thus, “Oh! Should I give this shirt to this person? I bought this shirt all for myself and this is one of my best ones. Rather than giving this, I’ll give some other shirt which I do not use much, and which is of an inferior quality as compared to the others!” Thinking thus, if I hide the best clothing of mine, and donate the worst of what I have, can it be called “Thyaaga” or “Dhaanam” or “Donation”? The answer is “NO”!

Thus, we should understand here that the principle called “Thyaaga” means, we should have the maturity to donate the best of the best items that we have, to others. If we give something of an inferior quality, it can never be accepted as “Thyaaga”. This is why, whenever we do certain auspicious spiritual ceremonies at our homes, and when we give certain items as a “donation” to the Pandits / Brahmins who are performing the spiritual practices, we should always ensure that we give them the best that we can.

But where are we now today? For a small example, let us consider this – Many of us in the southern part of India have this practice of consuming betel leaves. Even during auspicious occasions, we have the ritual of offering betel leaves to Bhagawan, or to a Pandit or to anybody for that matter. Now, if we go to the shop to by these betel leaves, the shopkeeper would immediately ask us, “What is the purpose for which you’re buying these betel leaves? Is it for your consumption or is it for donating it to someone else?” If we say that it is for our personal consumption, the shopkeeper would automatically give us the expensive variety. Whereas, if it is for the purpose of giving it to someone else, he would give the cheaper and the inferior variety! Now, this is where our “Thyaaga” attitude currently stands! Thus, the question that we should ask within ourselves is, “Aren’t the people to whom we’re going to give these betel leaves also normal human beings like us? If we’re consuming the superior variety, they can also consume the same thing as well! Why should we differentiate between us and them? Why can’t we give them the same expensive variety of the betel leaves that we consume?” If we’re able to answer these questions in the positive way, it means that we’re growing higher on our “Thyaaga” attitude.

Thus, for today let us realize that “Thyaaga” is an integral part of our “Dharma” and we should develop the maturity to give as much as possible to others, with the superior quality. If we develop this noble quality in us, we shall definitely call ourselves as “Dhaarmikas”. So let us ponder over this point very closely today, and let us make efforts to follow this in our daily lives. We shall wait till the next episode to continue with this interesting discussion on the various principles of “Dharma”! Stay tuned! 😊

 

Dear all esteemed readers,

As we’re witnessing an unprecedented situation around the world, fueled by an outbreak of a disease caused by the Covid-19 (Novel Coronavirus), this is the time for all of us to come together for a mass prayer.

We’ve witnessed in the past few months that more than a hundred thousand people getting affected by this viral infection and around 3,200  people (till date) have succumbed to death as well. What is more alarming here is that, this outbreak, unlike in the past, is breaching all limits of control and is posing a huge threat for mankind all over the world. To understand the graveness of the situation, this virus has made a mark into 100 countries worldwide and every government is struggling to even assess the situation.  Moreover, there is currently no cure for this disease as yet, and of course, scientists and researchers worldwide are putting their best foot forward to take all possible steps to combat this fast-spreading viral infection.

Given this precarious situation through which the world is going through at the moment, what are some things that we can do? Here are my takeaways:

1. Cleanliness should be our utmost priority: As mentioned in various contexts of our “Sanaathana Dharma”, we should make sure that we maintain a safe distance from another person while talking, eating, etc. We should make sure that we do not touch anyone physically for whatsoever reasons. We should make it a habit that we keep cleaning our hands, face and feet constantly and frequently. As per the government’s health department advisory, let us for the moment avoid mass gatherings at public places. This might arrest the fuel of the virus spread, as much as possible.
2. Avoid travel (International & domestic) as much as possible: Again, as per the advisory given to us by the government authorities, let us avoid travelling from one place to the other as much as possible. This is because, when we travel, we are amidst lot of people, whom we do not know. Moreover, we also do not know whether these people have a medical history too. Thus, to be on the safer side, let us not undertake any travel at this moment. However, if travel is extremely necessary and unavoidable, please follow the government advisory strictly before planning any such thing. There are lot of restrictions on international travel around the world, and readers should keep a tab on the news for regular updates. There are certain countries around the world that are severely hit by the outbreak, and it is strongly advised to avoid travel to such countries.
3. If we exhibit symptoms of the viral infection, we should consult a doctor immediately: This is a vital step, as we move forward. If we feel a marked deterioration in our health condition, it is better at this moment, to report to the hospital without any further delay. Some symptoms that this coronavirus can cause in our body are cold, dry cough, breathlessness and fever. If we have any of the above symptoms, we should immediately report to the nearest hospital. This would not only be helpful for us to get cured, but also, would be beneficial in a way to stop the spread of the disease to others. If detected positive for this infection, please quarantine yourself from the rest of the world as per the doctor’s instructions.
4. Prayers can change anything in this world: More than all of the above steps, the best possible thing that all of us can do together is a “Mass prayer”. Let us all pray from our respective homes for the speedy recovery of the world from this deadly onslaught. Let us make it a point that we chant the “Vishnu Sahasranaama” or “Lalitha Sahasranaama” or “Danvantri Stotras” together. The more and more we chant our “Mantras”, possibilities for such outbreaks of diseases to wreak havoc are very less. Mantras do have their powers. If we chant them with full devotion towards Bhagawan, there would definitely be a change in the world towards a positive direction.
5. Please, let us not circulate messages that might cause panic: Although the situation is grim at the moment, let us not make it grimmer by ringing the alarm bells. We can be confident that our health systems are able to tackle any possible outbreak of any disease. Our medical technology has grown so much that we can handle any situation at ease. Hence, just because we’re currently undergoing such a situation, let us not create a sense of panic around. Let us take it step by step and I’m sure we’re going to be out of this very soon. Our researchers, doctors and other medical staff around the world are tirelessly working 24*7 for this, and let us salute their selfless service to the world!

Hence for today, let us all pray together to Bhagawan for the benefit of the world – To bring the world out of the onslaught that this coronavirus is causing.  Let us extend our heart-felt prayers to those families who have lost their near and dear ones due to this disease, and let us also to pray for a speedy recovery of those who are affected by it. Let us pray to Bhagawan for making the world a happy, peaceful and a harmonious place, devoid of any diseases in the near future. If we’re praying together, I’m sure there would be remarkable changes that we can see on ground.

With this positive thought, let us do the needful. We shall wait till the next episode to continue with the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana. Stay tuned!

Let us understand that it is better to be safe than sorry!!!

 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the next aspect of “Dharma” that Sage Sukhaachaarya had discussed with King Parikshit, which is “Ahimsa”. As we’ve witnessed yesterday, “Ahimsa” means, non-violence and more than that, it has to do with total avoidance of physical and verbal abuse of other living beings. Of course, physical abuse can be contained to a large extent, but when it comes to verbal abuse, we need to exercise restraint very strictly. This is because of the simple fact that verbal abuse can hurl much more damage than even physical abuse. This can have cascading effects too in the future. Hence, it is always better to avoid conflicting situations as much as possible, however, if we’re presented with one, we should handle it in such a way that we do not end up abusing or hurting someone in the process. There are different ways through which things can be communicated in a polite and positive way and let us try to meticulously explore these avenues and follow them.

Moving on thus, we come to the next important aspect of “Dharma”, which Sage Sukhaachaarya explains here, which is nothing but “Brahmacharya”. Now we might have a question in our mind as to what is this “Brahmacharya” and to whom is this applicable. Normally it is a customary practice and a norm that “Brahmacharya” is followed by people who are unmarried and who have renounced their married life for the benefit of the world. Of course, this is true, and I’m not trying to negate this. It is very much true that our Sanaathana Dharma has laid down a concrete framework as to how a person renounces his / her life for the service to the world. However, there is a clause to this. Married people (Gruhastas) can also practice “Brahmacharya”. How can this be possible? Again, there are certain frameworks that we need to understand here. For instance, there is a clear mention in our Sanaathana Dharma literature as to when should a couple engage in experiencing pleasures of being together, and when should the couple refrain from it. It is said that experiencing pleasures of being together is to be avoided during festival days like Sri Krishna Jayanti, Sri Rama Navami, Shivratri, etc. and also on certain auspicious days like Ekadashi, etc. If we’re able to exercise restraint atleast during these days, this itself is a “Brahmacharya Vratha” (Austerity) that we’re practicing.

Now we might ask a question thus, “Oh! Anyways, we’re getting married, and just because we exercise these kinds of restraints, is it going to change anything in our life? What kind of benefit are we going to obtain by sacrificing our pleasurable experiences?” It is of course a very valid question. We should understand here that the Vedas has prescribed certain positives and negatives that we would experience if we’re in a married life. However, what would please Bhagawan’s heart is that, if we’re following these sorts of restraints correctly and meticulously as prescribed by Him, this itself sends a clear message to Him thus – “Oh! Just because I’ve written down and told that these are some important restraints and practices that one should follow, this child of mine is meticulously following! So let me grant Moksha to him or her!” This is what is important at the end of the day, isn’t it? Ultimately, whatever we do, should add happiness to Bhagawan, and only through that, we’re going to attain Moksha.

Having this argument on one hand, we might ask another follow-up question here thus, “Oh! I’m performing lot of spiritual practices and I’m chanting my Mantra constantly every moment. This itself should take me to Moksha, isn’t it? If that is the case, why should I practice tough restraints like this?” Let us take an example to understand this point further – For instance, we’ve to appear for an exam in our school or college – What are the various parameters that we should satisfy if we’ve to appear for the final examination? We should have a requisite percentage of classroom attendance; we should have performed well in the class tests and assignments. Similarly we should know how to respect our professors or teachers. We should be an obedient student, both inside and outside the school or college. Now, only if we satisfy all of these parameters, will we be able to appear for the final examination, isn’t it? Can we tell the school principal that just because I’ve prepared so well for the examination, but I have a dismal attendance record, can I go and write the examination? Many a times, the principal would not allow, isn’t it? Similarly, when it comes to the final examination called “Moksha”, Bhagawan would consider various parameters. Of course, spiritual practices, chanting Mantras, etc. are part of the parameters, but practicing “Brahmacharya” according to the prescribed rules and regulations meted out by Bhagawan is also important.

So for today, let us realize the fact that “Brahmacharya” Dharma is beyond just unmarried people. It extends to all of us, irrespective of whether we are married or not. Hence, we should make it a point to follow as per Bhagawan’s rules and regulations. If we do so, even our married life would become a very peaceful one, without giving room for excessive desires to rule us. In any case, whatever Bhagawan has prescribed for us, is always going to be doing good for all of us. Let us have that faith on Bhagawan and do the needful! We shall wait till the next episode to witness the next aspect of “Dharma”. Stay tuned! 😊

 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed an extended discussion on the last two important aspects of “Dharma”, which Sage Sukhaachaarya had emphasized upon, to commence the discussion – “Shamaha” and “Damaha”. These two aspects directly pertain to controlling our external and internal senses. Of course, the external senses can be controlled to a certain extent, owing to certain ways and means that we follow for ourselves voluntarily. But the problem comes with how we control our internal sense, which is nothing but our mind. This is where Bhagawan Krishna Himself says in the Bhagawad Gita that our mind can both be a friend as well as an enemy to us. That is, if we’re able to practice total detachment from worldly objects and pleasures, our mind can be the best friend and it would aid us in our spiritual progress. On the other hand, if we’re going to have all sorts of attachment towards worldly pleasures and objects, we’re going to deviate from the path laid by Bhagawan, and thus are getting carried away with the whims and fancies of the “Maya” (Illusion). In this case, our mind is going to be our biggest enemy. This is why Sage Sukhaachaarya also lays lot of emphasis on our internal control of our senses.

So thus, we’ve witnessed eight important aspects of “Dharma” that Sage Sukhaachaarya is talking about here, namely, “Satyam”, “Dayaa”, “Tapaha”, “Shoucham”, “Tithiksha”, “Eksha”, Shamaha” and “Damaha”. Now moving on with the ninth aspect of “Dharma”, which is being spoken about here, Sage Sukhaachaarya is now emphasizing on “Ahimsa”. This is an important aspect of “Dharma” which all of us need to look into here – When we talk about “Ahimsa”, we would immediately remember our great freedom fighter, Mahatma Gandhiji. He is one person who can be considered as an epitome of this quality called “Ahimsa” or “Non-violence”. Thus, “Ahimsa” simply means that we shouldn’t hurt anybody or any living being in this world. Although it seems vague at this point, we need a little bit of a microscopic look here. When we talk about “hurting”, it doesn’t stop with physically hurting someone or any living being. It extends to the point of hurting people verbally, by thought and by any other sort of action too. In the normal present day, we might even restrain ourselves from physically beating up or hurting someone with a stick or whatever. Atleast, as ardent followers of our “Sanaathana Dharma”, we would score 100% in this point. There are of course few religions that primarily focuses on physical hurting, and we can thank Bhagawan that we’re fortunate enough to not have taken birth amidst such barbaric people. Thus, as proud Hindus, we can be rest assured that we do not physically hurt others much. But what about hurting or abusing others verbally and mentally? This is where we should focus on at the moment and we should realize that abusing others verbally and mentally is even more powerful than physical hurting.

Let us witness a small example here – For instance, we’re going for a marriage function of our close relative and we work tirelessly for the 2 or 3 days of the function. At the fag end of the function, due to some reason, we might get provoked by somebody who’s talking ill about us! Now what would we do? Our ego would take over at this stage, and we would ask back immediately thus, “Oh! How can you scold me like this, just for a small mistake of mine? I’ve worked tirelessly and now you don’t respect me for whatever I’ve contributed!” Immediately the ego of the other person would rise up, and he / she would shout back at us thus, “Oh! Who asked you to come here and do all the work? If we would have known your short-sightedness and cheap behavior before, we wouldn’t have encouraged you to do all this!” Thus, this argument would blast into a fully blown fight and at the end of the day, whatever good work that we might have done for the past 2-3 days, would be totally washed away within just few minutes!

From this instance, what do we understand? Verbal abuse and / or mental abuse is much more powerful than physical abuse! Thus, the point here is that, if we have to score 100% on “Ahimsa”, we should make sure that we’re refraining ourselves both from physical and verbal abuse. In fact, this is where we lose out even in our family life too. If we’re going to look only at the negatives of people and are going to pick up fights for small issues within the family, there is never going to be an end for all of this! We should have the basic understanding in life that not all human beings are perfect in nature. Having said thus, we should also understand that even we might not be perfect in all what we do. We should ask ourselves thus, “Given that we’re an expert in pointing out at others’ faults every time in a public forum, how much time is it going to take for the same people to point out our faults in the same public forum?” If we ask this question seriously within ourselves, we would start realizing the folly that we’re committing.

Of course, I’m not saying that we shouldn’t point out others’ mistakes at all. We should do it, but in a way that it would serve as an opportunity for them to correct themselves. All what I’m trying to say here is that, we should not point out the mistakes of a person in such a way that it would be insulting or abusing him or her in any way. So for today, let us realize the significance of this important aspect of “Dharma”, which is nothing but “Ahimsa”. The next important aspect of “Dharma” which Sage Sukhaachaarya is going to explain, is about “Brahmacharya”. An important discussion awaits us, with respect to this “Brahmacharya”, in the next episode! Stay tuned! 😊

 

In the previous episode, we had commenced with an important discussion at the beginning of the eighth “Skandha” of the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana wherein Sage Sukhaachaarya is listing out various aspects of “Dharma” that each of us living in this world should follow. The discussion commences with some basic “Dharma” that all of us should adhere to, such as speaking the truth always, having compassion towards all living beings on the earth, dealing with complex situations with patience and perseverance, refraining from physically and verbally abusing others and repeatedly recollecting all the aspects of “Dharma” that we keep learning every day. There are still couple of more aspects of “Dharma” that we need to discuss from the yesterday’s sloka, before moving on into the finer details. Let’s discuss them first as we move on.

We are left out with “Shamaha” and “tamaha”, which signify the control of our senses – both external and internal. Our external senses as we might be knowing, are our eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin. Whereas, our internal sense primarily pertains to our “mind”. Control of both these external and internal sense organs are of prime importance if we’ve to call ourselves as “Dhaarmikas”. Of course, with certain “stringent” measures, we can still control our external senses. For instance, with the international level outbreak of the new sickness called Coronavirus, people from all over the world are now propagating the control of our external senses – like, refraining from touching each other, washing our hands, eyes, etc. constantly with soap, etc. Of course, if we’re going to close our eyes and shut our ears with cotton or whatever, we’re going to control our external sense organs to an extent. However, what happens to our internal control, which is our mind? Controlling of our mind is of paramount importance and this is where we’ve witnessed all through this blog series for the past 1000-odd episodes, innumerable people talking and setting examples for all of us as to how to control our mind.

For instance, whenever we go to a temple and worship Bhagawan, our external senses like our eyes, ears, etc. are somehow being controlled. When we’re standing in front of Bhagawan, our eyes look at Bhagawan’s idol. Our ears listen to the “Mantras” that are being chanted. Our hands are in folded position, so as to pay respect for Bhagawan, who is in front of us. However, is our mind controlled within the sphere, so as to think of Bhagawan and pray? Many a times, our mind keeps wandering here and there – The first thing that our mind thinks about is, whether our slippers that we’ve left outside the temple would be safe till I come back! 😊 Several allied thoughts prop up too thus, “Oh! What if someone steals our pair of slippers, which I’ve bought for almost a thousand rupees? What if I’ve to walk barefoot on the road, which might invite unwanted germs to enter our body? What if we fall sick after that?” The list of questions keeps going on and on! But where are we currently? We’re standing in front of Bhagawan inside the temple! This is where the problem lies – Are we able to forget all the external aspects of our life atleast for that 5-10 minutes when we’re standing in front of Bhagawan, think of Him and pray with a single point focus?

Another aspect that I keep seeing many a times in the present day when people visit temples is that, all of us carry our mobile phones inside the temple premises! This is a huge disturbance and a menace, not only for us, but also for other devotees who come and try to be single pointed in their worship. Of course in today’s “dynamic world”, people keep saying that they cannot isolate themselves from their mobile phones even for a minute, because they might miss “important calls” or messages! My request to all such people is that, if such is the urgency, we should have the decency to keep our phone on the “silent mode”, so that it doesn’t disturb others. If it is an urgent call to be attended, we should have the decency to go out of the temple, finish the call and then come back. Some people sadly lack this discipline and start conversing on the mobile phone, while standing in front of Bhagawan. Or else, if the mobile phone is of paramount importance, it is better that such people refrain from visiting temples at all! This solves half the problems, not only for them, but also for everybody else.

Thus, the point here is, whenever we are inside the temple, we should respect our own privacy with Bhagawan and also the privacy between Bhagawan and the rest of His devotees as well. I’m narrating this point in detail to drive home the important aspect of “Dharma” that, mind control is very important for all of us, so as to fall into the path of “Dharma”. So for today, let us ponder over these two points – Control of our external and internal senses. We shall wait till the next episode to witness subsequent points made by Sage Sukhaachaarya to King Parikshit on the various aspects of “Dharma” for various people. Stay tuned! 😊

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the commencement of the eighth “Skandha” of Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana, wherein Sage Sukhaachaarya starts explaining to King Parikshit, the various aspects of “Dharma” that every category of people should follow in this world. Of course, there are specific sets of “Dharma” for Braahmachaaris (Unmarried people), Gruhastas (Married people), men, women, etc. and finally a common set of principles that all people across categories should follow. This is going to be an important section for all of us to pay our full attention and we shall take this discussion in detail step by step in the coming episodes.

Yesterday, we had commenced with a brief discussion on the two categories of “Dharma” according to Sage Sukhaachaarya”, wherein he talks about the “External Dharma” and the “Internal Dharma”. While the “External Dharma” pertains to our outside appearance such as wearing our traditional costumes like Dhoti, Saree, etc. along with wearing Vibhuti, or “Naama” or sandalwood paste, etc. on our forehead, the “Internal Dharma” pertains to our personal character, such as talking the truth everytime, not harming others both physically and verbally, food habits, etc. At the end of yesterday’s discussion, we had also witnessed how both the “External” and “Internal” components of “Dharma” are equally important for a person to be called “Dhaarmika” and how both these components complement each other too. We witnessed an example to illustrate this point as well.

Moving on thus, Sage Sukhaachaarya now illustrates each of the “Dharma” principles according to the various categories. He first begins thus:

“Satyam dayaa Tapaha shoucham tithikshekshaa shamaha damaha!”

As we might be knowing many of these already, we shall just have a glance as we move ahead further. “Satyam” means “speaking the truth all the time”. We should ensure that our mouth only talks the truth, but in a way that it would be pleasing for others to listen. Of course, when we say that we should be truthful, it doesn’t mean that we should be too blunt in whatever we communicate. While we communicate the truth, we should make sure that we do not harm anybody with that as well. “Dayaa” means “Compassion”. We should make sure that we are compassionate, kind and loving towards all living beings in this world. Again, this characteristic is in-built within us, when it comes to our immediate family members like our spouse, children, parents, etc. But this compassion should not be limited only within this circle. We should make sure that we extend our compassion to other people, other animals, plants, trees, insects, etc. around us as well and this is called real compassion.

“Tapah” means “Ability to restrict ourselves and perform penance”. By saying thus, Sage Sukhaachaarya explains that we should be able to abstain from “knee-jerk reactions” towards any situation, and thus develop the patience to analyze things before coming to conclusions. This itself is an incredible outcome of deep penance. If we’re performing penance, it only implies that we’re bringing our mind under control. Readers can recollect few of our episodes in the past, wherein we had spoken in detail about Sage Kapilaachaarya’s advice on how to control our mind. “Shoucham” means “Cleanliness”. Of course, this term cleanliness refers to both external and internal cleanliness. External cleanliness can be attained by taking a shower everyday, wherein our physical body gets cleaned up. If required, we shall even take a shower twice a day too, to ensure physical or external cleanliness. However, when it comes to “internal cleanliness”, we should be able to talk what we think and do what we talk. Our thoughts should be pure. Our actions and attitude should reflect the purity of our mind. This is real “Shoucham”. Thus, when we talk about cleanliness, it pertains more towards our internal cleanliness, that constitutes our thoughts, words and actions.

“Tithiksha” means “Patience”. We should constantly ask this question within us – Are we getting provoked if somebody tries to induce us with some harsh behavior? Or, are we able to resist ourselves from reacting angrily to that person? If we’re able to find an answer in such a way that we’re not getting disturbed by whatever others are trying to do to us, it means we’re scoring high on patience. This is what is required if we’ve to follow the path of “Dharma”. Hurting or abusing someone at that very moment is extremely easy and is tempting too. However, if one can resist that temptation and avoid the abusing, lot of problems can be avoided in life. We can learn a lot from one person, who is resisting all of our bad actions that we keep performing every day of our life. That person is none other than Bhagawan Himself! Thus, we should understand that Bhagawan is an epitome of patience, wherein He is refraining Himself all these years and decades from giving us the punishment that we should experience! All what Bhagawan thinks within Himself is whether we would mend our ways some day or the other and patiently waits for us to do so!

“Eksha” means referring and recollecting the various aspects of spirituality and “Dharma” again and again. This itself is “Dharma”! This is why I always keep saying at the end of every episode that we present – All of us should reflect upon the points that we are discussing every day. If we have clarifications with any of the points, we should refer to some books, discourses by eminent people on these topics, or discuss the clarifications with some experts who have the knowledge. It is only with repeated discussions, debates and referring will our knowledge improve. Thus we need to make sure that we follow this meticulously and continuously.

So for today, let us stop at this point and let us ponder over the points that we’ve discussed so far. We shall wait for the next episode to continue further. Stay tuned! 😊

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the culmination of the Prahlaada-Charitra, which consisted of the hallmark incarnation of Bhagawan Narasimha, to save little Prahlaada by destroying Hiranya-Kashibu. With this, Bhagawan ensured that His ardent devotee was protected, “Adharma” was destroyed and eventually, “Dharma” was restored in this world. With this, we had come to the end of the seventh “Skandha” and also the third day syllabus of discussion. We already know by now that this text is spread across for a seven-day discussion (Saptaaham) and we’ve witnessed the significance of this earlier. Moving into the eighth “Skandha” thus, Sage Shukaachaarya is going to give a detailed narration about various aspects of “Dharma” for various categories of people. He’s going narrate the list of “Dharma” for “Brahmachaaris”, for the “Gruhastas”, men and women. We shall commence this discussion in today’s episode.

“Bhagawan shrotum icchaami nrnaam dharmam sanaathanam!

Varnaashrama aacharayutam yath pummaan vindate param!!

Na tvaa bhagawate ajaaya lokaanaam dharmahetave!

Vakshe sanaathanam dharmamnaaraayanam upaachyutham!!”

Here, Sage Sukhaachaarya gives an elaborate “30-point checklist” of various aspects of “Dharma” that all of us need to follow. But before we go into that, we need to understand what exactly this term “Dharma” is for all of us. Many of us might think that “Dharma” is all about donating things to poor people, giving food to the needy, digging lakes and ponds that would supply water to many people or building temples and other places of worship. Of course, all of these activities constitute the larger framework of “Dharma”, but this is not the end of all. More than all what we’ve witnessed above, “Dharma” also consists of certain important characteristics that all of us must exhibit and follow in our daily lives. In other words, “Dharma” contains some rules and regulations, do’s and don’ts for leading a peaceful life. These principles also constitute an important framework for “Dharma”. In fact, our Sanaathana Dharma scriptures classify “Dharma” into two categories – External Dharma and Internal Dharma. Now what is this classification indicate? When we talk about the “External Dharma”, all of us apply the Vibhuti (Burnt scared ash), “Thiruman” (Naamam of Bhagawan Vishnu), etc. on our forehead, many of us wear the dhoti (in case of men) and saree (in case of women), etc. All of these contribute to the “External Dharma”, which is nothing but certain characteristics or symbols that we employ, so as to indicate to the world that we’re following the principles of “Dharma”.

At the same time, there is this second category called “Internal Dharma”, wherein we have some internal characteristics which we’ve to look into. For instance, controlling our anger, exhibiting patience and perseverance in whatever tasks we do, avoiding usage of harmful and abusive words, talking the truth always, etc. Without all these characteristics, what is the use of having just the “External Dharma”? Thus, the significance of “Internal Dharma” is highlighted here. However, at the same time, can we say that only the “Internal Dharma” is sufficient and “External Dharma” is not required? Some people come up with the narrative that if we’re a noble person by character and by heart, external appearances really do not matter. This is not really true. I shall substantiate this point with an important narrative here – If we get our “External Dharma” in place, this itself would serve as a “demotivator” for us from going into unwanted activities that would hamper my “Internal Dharma”. For instance, imagine for a moment that I’m wearing a nice dhoti, Vibhuti, etc. and I’m looking for getting some coins and change for a hundred rupees – I’m looking around myself to check from where I can get this change. At that point, I find a restaurant that cooks non-vegetarian food. Assume that this is the only place that is available. Will I feel comfortable to enter inside that place to obtain my change? If onlookers get to see me in this attire, coming from a restaurant that sells non-vegetarian food, even though I might not have consumed anything there, what would they comment? They might say thus, “Oh! Look at this! Brahmins have also started consuming non-vegetarian food nowadays and this person is setting a bad example for the whole community!” So, what is happening here? Our attire, which is according to our “External Dharma” is serving as a deterrent for us to do something that might be wrong as per the principles of our “Internal Dharma” that we need to follow. Thus, we can see here that if we can get our “External Dharma” right, we would more or less fall in line with our “Internal Dharma” as well.

Given all of these, we cannot say that just because we have either of the “External Dharma” or “Internal Dharma” in place, we’re “Dharmic” in nature! It should thus be a combination of both “External” and “Internal” Dharma and only then we would be able to call ourselves as “Dhaarmikaas”. So for today, let understand the significance of both the “External” and “Internal” Dharma and let us try and address ourselves accordingly. We shall wait for the next episode to continue this discussion further. Stay tuned! 😊

 

 

 

 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Narayana insisting Prahlaada to go for a boon, just because Bhagawan’s heart is so pleased with the little child’s ardent devotion and spiritual maturity. Bhagawan is giving this opportunity to Prahlaada because He is confident that Prahlaada is not going to ask anything selfish, unlike his father. Bhagawan knows that whatever Prahlaada is going to ask, is going to be for the benefit of the entire world. As Bhagawan thinks thus, Prahlaada did not disappoint! He thus asks Bhagawan to bless him with future births (if any) in such a way that he is totally immersed in chanting of Bhagawan’s divine names and thinking about Him constantly without a break. Accordingly, Bhagawan also grants Prahlaada whatever he had asked for.

With this, we come to the end of the core part of the “Prahlaada Charitra” and with the divine incarnation of Bhagawan Narasimha, Bhagawan’s words in the Bhagawad Gita which of course came much later, are justified. Bhagawan says thus, and many of us might know this sloka very well:

“Paritraanaaya saadhunaam vinaashaayacha dushkrutaam!

Dharma samsthaabhanaarthaaya sambhavaami yuge yuge!!”

Through this sloka, Bhagawan Krishna clearly lays down the road map for all of His incarnations. Although this sloka features as part of the Bhagawad Gita of Bhagawan Krishna, the essence of this sloka applies to all of His incarnations. In this, Bhagawan explains that whenever there is a downfall of Dharma and whenever there is a threat to the existence of His devotees, Bhagawan would incarnate in this world to protect good people (Saadhus), destroy the evil and re-establish the Dharma in this world. This is the same agenda behind every incarnation and Bhagawan Narasimha was not really an exception. In order to ensure the safety of His ardent devotee, Prahlaada, Bhagawan Narayana incarnates as Narasimha Moorthy to destroy the “Adharma” called Hiranya-Kashibu and to re-establish the “Dharma” in the form of Prahlaada.

Thus with this, we come to a landmark portion of this Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana. With the end of the Prahlaada-Charitra, we’ve come to the end of the seventh “Skandha” of this text. Also, we’ve also come to the end of the stipulated third day’s discussion out of the seven days. Readers might remember that we’ve discussed in our earlier episodes, how this entire text is divided into seven different parts, which would be taken up for discussion on seven consecutive days (Saptaaham). Thus, with the end of the Prahlaada-Charitra, we’ve come to the close of the third day’s discussion. We’re still left with four more days’ “syllabus”! 😊

As we commence the fourth day’s syllabus, we would traverse starting from the eighth “Skandha” and towards the end of the fourth day’s discussion, we would culminate at the section which talks about the birth of Bhagawan Krishna! This would come at the end of the ninth “Skandha”. We’re currently amidst the seventh “Skandha”, wherein we’ve witnessed the Prahlaada Charitra and the incarnation of Bhagawan Narasimha. If we’ve to end at Bhagawan Krishna’s divine incarnation, it is extremely far off at the moment. We’ve to traverse through many more incarnations of Bhagawan, before we reach that milestone. We’ve to witness the incarnations of Bhagawan Vaamana, Bhagawan Parasuraama, Bhagawan Rama, and then finally enter into the “Krishna-Charitra”. It should be noted that the entire tenth “Skandha” of the text talks about the various landmarks of Bhagawan Krishna’s divine incarnation and this is going to be an extremely interesting and absorbing “Skandha” for all of us. In fact, the fifth day’s discussion is entirely circled around the tenth “Skandha” only. We’re soon going to witness this beautiful section of this text, but to reach there, we’ve to traverse a lot still. So, let us take it one by one in detail.

As we move on into the eighth “Skandha”, Sage Sukhaachaarya elaborates to King Parikshit, the various aspects of “Dharma” for everybody in this world. He talks about the various aspects of “Dharma” that are to be followed by “Brahmachaaris” (People who are single and not married), “Gruhasthas” (Married people), various aspects of “Dharma” to be followed by men and women in this world, and finally the various aspects of “Dharma” that is commonly to be practiced by all people in this world.

Thus, the stage is set for the next round of detailed discussion. We shall commence this elaborate discussion in the next episode and until then, we shall keep praying to Bhagawan Narasimha for peace, prosperity, love and compassion to rule this world. Stay tuned! 😊

 

 

 

 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed some key takeaways from the “Prahlaada-Charitra” and Bhagawan Narasimha’s divine incarnation. We had witnessed four points in due course of yesterday’s discussion, wherein we emphasized that, firstly Bhagawan never ever gives up on any of His ardent devotees. If He sees His devotees suffering, Bhagawan’s heart starts melting then and there and thus, makes sure that we are somehow protected from any sorts of adverse happenings. Secondly we had witnessed that Bhagawan’s fury knows no bounds when He sees His devotees getting insulted or hurt. Even if someone tries and hurts Bhagawan directly, this person still might escape, thanks to the unending compassion of Bhagawan. However having said this, Bhagawan’s compassion goes for a toss when anybody harms His ardent devotee. His fury is at its peak at this time and this is where we learnt yesterday that it is better to play the safe game here, rather than feeling sorry later on – It’s better not to hurt or harm anybody, both physically and verbally. Of course, most of us aren’t going to hurt anybody physically, but when we talk about “abuse”, “hurt”, “harm” or “insult”, this involves the mental and verbal component as well. This is why we should not employ harsh words or abusive language while talking with someone. As much as possible, if we refrain ourselves from verbally scolding or abusing others, we can prevent a huge accumulation of our bad “Karma” (Paapa).

Thirdly, we witnessed that Bhagawan definitely responds to a devotee’s ardent and innocent prayers. As Bhagawan is an embodiment of love and compassion, He wouldn’t sit quiet if a devotee is praying with a pure and an innocent heart. Finally, we also witnessed the significance of chanting our “Mantra” through the lens of the “Prahlaada-Charitra”, wherein, chanting of the divine names would serve as a “ring of protection” to all of us, at times of catastrophes and dangers. Thus, we should make it a point that we start following all these four aspects in our day-to-day lives, starting this moment.

Moving on thus, as Prahlaada “smartly” replies to Bhagawan for the question of requesting for a boon, Bhagawan’s heart melts with his compassion for His ardent devotee. Bhagawan replies back thus to Prahlaada, “Oh Prahlaada! Being a little child, I’m so impressed with the way you’re showing your devotion towards me! This is what I expect from all my children, wherever they are in this world. However, you are indeed a special child for me, as you were even ready to sacrifice your own father for the sake of me! You were prepared to lose your father for your ardent devotion. This is something that the world hasn’t seen till now. You could have easily asked me for a boon that might bring back your father’s life. Even if you would have asked thus, I would have had no problems in granting it for you! However, the spiritual maturity that you’ve obtained at such a tender age has prevented you from asking such things!”

As Prahlaada keeps listening to Bhagawan’s accord, He continues thus, “Oh Prahlaada! Having said thus, I’m  not really convinced with your answer that you would not want to ask anything from me. I’ve come all the way for you, and exclusively for you! If I go back without granting something to my ardent devotee, it would always be a guilt feeling within me that I’ve not given anything as a prize for Prahlaada’s ardent devotion! So, please ask me something, just for my sake. I shall immediately grant it to you!”

As Bhagawan gives a touching accord thus, Prahlaada replies back with folded hands, “Oh Bhagawan Narayana! Whatever you’ve said so far has melted my heart even more! You said that you had come exclusively for me! But who am I? I’m just a mere child, knowing nothing in this world! If you’re ready to answer the fervent calls of this little child, I’m sure that the world is safe in your hands. Now, since you’re requesting me to ask for a boon, let me ask you this – If there are any more births that I’ve to take in this world, please give me a birth in such a way that I’m always filled with your thoughts and I would be able to chant your divine names every moment! Of course, I’m not asking you to give me a birth of a specific living being – It might be a worm, insect, animal, plant, or even a human being. That is totally up to your choice and it is totally in your discretion. But whatever might be my birth in future, I should always remember you and should be able to cry for you without any hesitation. So, Bhagawan! Please grant me this one boon and with this, all my wishes are satisfied. If you’re with me all the time, why should I ask you for any worldly thing? If you’re with me every moment, why should I even think of enjoying worldly pleasures and getting carried away with them? Hence, please consider this little child’s request and do the needful!”

Upon hearing this from the little child, Bhagawan immediately grants the boon and thus, is totally convinced that Prahlaada is all set for a huge spiritual revolution in this world. He immediately chalks out a detailed plan as to how He’s going to use Prahlaada to create spiritual awareness and spread “Dharma” in this world. What is going to be Bhagawan’s “master plan” and how is He going to implement it? We shall find out, starting from the next episode! Stay tuned! 😊