August 13,
2006
click here for photos from 13th -
The setting in the Sai Kulwant Hall had incurred no change and looked just
as beautiful as day one. The day began with a short talk by the Head
Priest who once again reiterated the fact that the Yagnam which was
conducted according to the Shaivaagama Shastra was being performed for
Loka Kalyanam. He also explained the role of Agni which acts as the
mediator to the God who resides in the heavens above. Agni is the one who
conveys our prayers to the Lord. But it is true that God knows everything
and this is a belief only to satisfy ourselves. How true! He also
reemphasized that the lingam christened "Saieeswara" is filled to the brim
with Divine vibrations as it was installed by Paramashiva Himself and the
Netra's power and range encircled infinity as it had come from directly
from Swami.
The rest of the itinerary was same as that of yesterday. All those
assembled paid their obeisance to the Sun God through the Aruna
Paaraayanam and the Surya Namaskaaram. This was duly followed by the "Mahanyaasam".
Today's Mahanyaasam was more full throated than yesterday since the
students of the Brindavan campus, whose hostel is just adjacent to the
Kulwant Hall, had come in just in time for the Paaraayanam. It really
electrified the atmosphere and the hall reverberated with the chanting of
Vedam in perfect harmony and rhythm. The Panchamrutha Abhishekam followed
the Mahanyaasam. As usual the Lingam was worshipped with milk, honey,
curds, etc. and prepared for the Rudraabhishekam. The Rudra abhishekam
followed the Panchamrutha Abhishekam.
During the third iteration of the Rudram during Rudra abhishekam, Swami
came out of the Yajur Mandiram (7:18AM), went around magnifying the
vibrations that came out of the sacrificial altars. It was a veritable
feast to watch Paramashiva spreading His infinite grace for the whole of
humanity's welfare. At this moment, one ponders over the fact that the
very essence of Darshan is in fact the whole purpose of this Yagnam. Time
and again Swami has also mentioned that Darshan and the very thought of
Him can cure the pain of aching hearts and give solace and succor to the
soul. Is this not welfare of humanity? When the God Himself conducts a
Yagnam of this magnitude, it is certain that the welfare of humanity is
not only a logical outcome but a guaranteed and assured one.
Swami, as He came to His sofa, gave a surprised expression when He spotted
the Principal of the Brindavan Campus. He called out to the Principal and
enquired about when they had come and whether all were comfortable. He
assured Swami that everything was fine and thanked Swami for making it
possible for them to attend the Yagnam. Swami came and sat on His chair
(7:31AM). He carefully watched the progress of the Abhishekam which had
reached the fifth iteration. At around 7:50AM Swami retired to his
interview room.
He emerged from the room at around 8:15 AM. The Abhishekam got over at
around 8:55 and the Rudra Homam began. He asked for the Brindavan Vedam
boys and asked them to join the chanting. Immediately they obeyed. Swami
sat through the proceedings and at around 9:05 AM Swami went back to the
Yajur Mandiram.
In the afternoon, Bhagawan came to Sai Kulwanth Hall at 2:45PM with the
Vedic scholars performing the puja and the Nadaswaram party giving Him an
auspicious welcome. But Swami in His inimitable style left the devotees in
a daze when He directed the car to be driven out of the Hall towards the
indoor stadium construction site. Swami came back to Sai Kulwanth Hall at
3:00PM through the East Prashanthi gate and proceeded straight to the
Interview room. At 3:22PM Swami walked out to take center stage in the
proceedings of the evening. After keenly observing the evening puja till
3:30, Swami called Sri.Vinay Kumar, the Karnataka State Youth coordinator
and asked him about the details of the programme for the evening.
Sri.Vinay Kumar then introduced the first of the two speakers; Dr.Gururaj
Karjagi, an educationalist par excellence. He spoke on the topic "Lord
Shiva as a symbol". Dr.Gururaj emphasized on the point that God was one
and that He can be reached through many paths. He went on to expound that
God had no form, and that His true nature is beyond comprehension.
The following are excerpts from his talk:
"Since God has no form, our minds need to visualize a form in order to
focus our devotion and worship towards this one object or form. Hinduism
says that out of His infinite mercy and Grace, God manifests in various
forms..."
Dr.Gururaj's talk was peppered with many stories, both mythological and
more importantly they were incidents that showed that every religion
stressed that one had to go beyond the form and realize the Divine power.
His instances were as varied as from Buddhism, to Christianity and even an
instance of how Lord Shiva made Brahma and Vishnu realize and surrender
their egos. These stories enthralled the audience and held them in rapt
attention. He then posed the question "Why did Lord Shiva assume the form
of the destroyer in the trinity?" He went on to explain, saying that by
the title "destroyer" Shiva does not look to wipe out creation but that
the inner significance was that He looks to destroy the evil impurities in
man. He concluded his talk with explaining the real meaning of the
Panchakshara- "Om Namah Shivaya". Dr.Gururaj revealed that this was the
core of the Vedas, and that the Panchakshara has two meanings, - Om Namah
Shivaya I bow to Lord Shiva, and that the word Namah also means Na-maha
that is to say "Not mine"; or Nothing is mine, all is His.
The second speaker of the evening was Sri. V. Srinivasan and the best
possible introduction that one could give to him is that he is the All
India President of the Sathya Sai Seva Organisation and that was exactly
what Sri.Vinay Kumar too gave. He was to address the gathering on the
topic "The role of Sai Youth in society".
Sri. Srinivasan started by expressing the munificence of Lord Shiva on all
those who have come to participate in this Yagna, as this is probably the
first time in the history of Mankind that the Highest form of worship to
Lord Shiva has been performed in the very presence of Lord Shiva Himself.
He had an exceptional example to substantiate his topic in the form of
Sri.Vinay Kumar, who had coordinated with his team of Sai Youth from the
State of Karnataka this Yagna with great dedication and unity. The speaker
then quoted Swami that "The youth of India are the ones who are going to
bring about the change". He went on to say that the Youth of today are
being drawn to Swami only because Swami is the only one who does what He
says. Sri. Srinivasan addressed the Youth telling them that Swami wanted
nothing from them, but for them to be happy, show respect towards Elders
and Parents and to serve the society around them.
The following are excerpts from his inspiring talk that was addressed more
towards the Youth gathered:
"Of what use is education if we can't serve Bharathmatha? ... Serving
others is not important, what that service does to you is what is more
important. It is the Paramatma that has to be touched and not the
Paaramatma.." "Service needs Selfless Love and dedication"...
He gave the example of Grama Seva in the villages around Puttaparthi and
how it is an example that the Youth need to emulate especially in our
country where a vast majority of the population is in rural areas. He made
a very pertinent point that the Youth had a big advantage in understanding
the nuances of technology and were using this to great effect in
accomplishing these seva activities. Sri. Srinivasan went onto dismiss the
rising feeling among devotees that Swami was getting inaccessible by the
day, and said that on the contrary He was reaching out to more and more
people in far flung places despite physically being where He was. He then
narrated two recent miracles or leelas of Swami that he had recently come
to know about.
After he concluded his talk with these points, at 4:20 PM Swami out of His
infinite Love agreed to give his most precious Discourse.
At 4:25 PM Swami asked for the discourse table to be brought.
The divine
discourse is as follows:
A true day (dinam) it is when devotees gather to sing the glory of the
lord That is a true day when they help the poor, needy and the forlorn It
is a true day when the mystery of God is shared The rest of the days are
all obituaries (tat ddinam)
Srinivasan spoke on how Vinay Kumar has led the youth in organizing this
program. But whether he tells you or not, the restlessness in the world
today is because of the youth. What is the use of all the knowledge when a
fool is unable to realize his true nature? In spite of all his higher
learning he is mean. Without acquiring the secret of knowledge why do you
pride yourself with your degree? With the influence of the English
language the youth (Indian) have forgotten their tradition and culture.
When the traditions are forgotten culture is lost. When culture is lost
the wealth of India is lost.
Today there is disturbance and restlessness in every field. The pauper and
the millionaire go about begging in their own ways. In any case the pauper
is better off as the millionaire is not ready to give even a naya
paise(fraction of a rupee) for any good cause. For the sake of cheap
popularity they are ready to advertise.
The youth have to move ahead for the country to progress. They have in
them physical, mental and intellectual strength. They can do anything they
decide. They must channelise their efforts for the service of the society.
But they are weak in meager matters. At the age of sixteen they are
emaciated, not from the lack of food but from the fatigue of senses. They
do not safeguard their senses but rather misuse them. It is their parents
who encourage them with money. More money will lead to more wrong being
committed. Do not waste money; misuse of money is evil. Do not waste food;
food is God. Do not waste time.
The sight of the youngsters is at fault. Their looks are not steady even
for a moment. They are like crows that desire everything they see. We must
control our sight. Netra(eye) is sacred like the sastra(divine text).
Correct your dristi(looks) and see the divine in sristi(creation). Swami
is only telling the truth, so do not misunderstand. Even when going on a
cycle they let go of everything gaping at ladies on the road. Some even go
on motorcycles and end up in accidents in this manner. Boys moving across
girls colleges stare at the college unmindful of their step. What are
these eyes given for? They are given to see the divine. This much for the
looks what to speak of the words they utter? It is filled with badness.
They talk only about beauty (of the body). They do not realize that true
beauty lies in bliss. These eyes are given to see the beauty of God. We
must be careful in choosing in what we see, hear, and talk. Jihve Rasagyne
mathurapriyetvam (This tongue is nectarine and seeks only sweetness). Such
a tongue is given to utter sweet words and not vulgar expressions. What
for are the eyes given if not to see God? Today they go by the temple not
to see the God therein but to stare at the ladies who are there. One must
control his senses. With the senses under control one can observe anything
and remain unaffected. Only then there is no defect.
It is because Swami loves you that he is explaining this to you. You may
hide it from yourself but Swami will not do so. Recognize the mistake and
evolve from it only then are you truly human. Parents should be careful in
this regard and not pamper their children. The children too must realize
that their misdemeanor will only earn their parents a bad name. The
mother, father, teacher and the guest are God. Children must never forget
to love their parents under any circumstance. The first and second Gods
are their parents. What is the use of all other activity if they forget
their parents? They must excise constraint on money(not be spendthrifts)
and words. Silence will never lead to enmity. Srinivasan told you about
the use of technology for seva. But the youth today are only picking up
cheap tricks from technology. They are in fact converting technology to
mere tricks.
Every individual must uphold his family name. The individual must uphold
the prestige of the society through his actions. Hiranyakashipu asked his
son Prahalada as to what is the greatest thing that he has learnt.
Prahalada replied " The Character is the most important of all". Then
Hiranyakashipu called a maidservant and asked Prahalada as to who she was.
Prahalada replied that she was his mother. Though she was a maidservant,
Prahalada considered all women elder to him as his mother. Later, when
Hiranyakashipu called all the young women in the palace, Prahalada
considered everyone as his sisters, both younger and elder.
A true father asks his son to go closer to God. Teachers should show the
right path. Prahalada told his teachers that they were not doing the right
thing and unmindful of what they said, he kept repeating God's name "Hari
bol, Hari Bol". Eshwara (God) is in all. He alone is to be worshipped.
My desire is that youth should go out like Prahalada and sing the glory of
God. Begin at home. Tell your parents that God is the sole refuge. The
body is made of five elements and the senses and it is bound to fall
anytime. So, every moment chant the glory of God. It is the duty of
parents to show this path to their children. Today, teachers teach only
from the textbooks. Knowledge from textbooks is like nostrils. It takes in
breath and lets it out. Likewise you read and forget. This is education.
But Educare is like the breath and without it one is as good as dead. If
you find anyone indulging in bad talk, slap him. It does not matter if he
slaps back. But you should punish him. To stare at women is a sin. If you
do so, your people will be stared at. Respect and love others. I have
established the 'Youth Wing' to be ideals. They should not be wayward. It
is only a donkey that walks in any direction of its whim and fancy. You
are not a donkey. You are in fact God Himself, but now behaving like an
animal.
Some of the boys go through 'silly' books slyly. They read those books by
hiding them within textbooks. They thereby deceive the teachers.
Embodiments of Love!
I love you very much and that is the reason why I am pointing out all
these to you. No one can gauge My love. Even if you don't love Me, I don't
bother. Many people criticize Me and write all sorts of things in
newspapers. Those who don't speak the truth are worse than dogs. Be in
truth. Let the dogs bark. It's their nature. Don't mind about them. When
one dog barks in the street his fellow dogs also pick up. They are just
jealous and try to destroy Swami's name. So many of you have come here
without any invitation. None of them will be able to even gather ten
people because they lack the goodness. You may be pained that I am
speaking harsh things but in reality you should be happy that I am telling
you all this. If you really want to know Swami, come and experience Him.
If you observe truth steadfastly it becomes your witness. Virtues like
truth should be your witnesses unlike the foolishness which is the virtue
of fools. Be a 'phool'(flower) and not a fool. We need today Educare which
is from the heart and consists of the five values Sathya, Dharma, Shanti,
Prema and Ahimsa.
All children here are like gold. Only that some of them are 14 carat gold!
They should transform to 26 carat gold! (At this point Swami called a
Russian student and an American student on stage and made them chant the
Rudram and Sri Sukhtham) See they chant so well with synchronisation and
unity. One is from Russia, one is from America. See their unity! (He
materialised a chain for the Russian boy.) Today foreigners are learning
the Vedas. What about Bharatiyas? They learn-
"Ding Dong Bell
Pussy's in the well" (laughter)
Recognise our culture. Morality is the mother, integrity the father, peace
the sister and courage the brother. These are the true relationships. (
Swami then sat down).
I am not afraid of anyone. I am the Truth. Even if the Prime Minister
comes, I will not move from the Truth. In the days to come I'll reveal so
many more things.
Swami then called up the music college students to the stage. As per His
command, next there was a music programme by the students of the
Institute. The beauty of the programme was that Swami Himself personally
introduced the singers. Omprasad, Guruprasad and Ashwath Narayan were the
three singers.They sang 3 songs after which Swami called 3 more music
college students on stage. They too rendered songs - extempore. After an
enthralling music session, Swami blessed all on stage and gave
padanamaskar to them. He also gave advice on how to improve. Then Swami
received Aarthi and retired to Yajur Mandiram.
More from
5th day
Athi Rudra Maha Yajna: Day 5
Bhagawan granted Darshan to the huge gathering of devotees assembled in
the Hall and sat in the dais for more than an hour. The proceedings of the
Yajna were conducted as the previous days on the morning of 13th August
2006 too. In the evening, after Bhagawan’s Darshan, two distinguished
speakers addressed the huge concourse of devotees. Sri Vinay Kumar
introduced the two speakers. The first speaker was Dr. Gururaj Karjkee. He
is the Chairman at the Academy of Creative Teaching, Bangalore. A
Doctorate in Inorganic Chemistry, he is associated with several
educational institutions. Dr. Gururaj spoke on the topic, “Lord Siva, the
Symbolic God”. The next speaker was Sri V. Srinivasan. Sri Srinivasan, an
electrical engineer by qualification and an eminent industrialist. He has
been the President of the CII, and above all he has been serving at the
Lotus Feet as the All India President of Sri Sathya Sai Seva
Organisations. Sri Srinivasan spoke on the role of “Sai Youth in Society”.
Sri Gururaj began his speech by saying that Hinduism at its core maintains
that God is one but reached by many paths. God is formless and beyond the
limits of comprehension, then why are there so many forms around us.
Nirakara Brahma (formless Brahma) is difficult to comprehend, let alone
worship with devotion. Ordinary people like us need a form to worship, but
we should know that the ultimate is formless. Every religion believes in
symbolism. They all lead towards the ultimate, liberation. He related a
story from the Zen. A Zen master from Japan wanted to seek refuge in a
temple for the night. So, he asked the priest for permission. The priest
agreed saying that he needed no permission since he was the Zen master. It
was bitterly cold. At night 1 ’o clock, the priest felt something burning.
When he came outside, he found the Zen master burning a wooden Buddha
statue. The priest questioned him as to how could he burn the statue being
a Zen master. He replied saying, “We have a long night, bring another
statue too, you can also warm yourself.” The priest sent him out. When the
priest was going out of the gate of the temple, he found the Zen master
worshipping a milestone saying, “Buddha Saranam Gachchhami”. Then the
priest asked the Zen master the logic behind his action. The Zen master
replied, “You can see Buddha only when it is carved out, but I can see
Buddha even in a milestone.” That is the formless. He pointed out the
story of Lazarus, who was dead, but was revived by Jesus. The erudite
speaker said, “Most of us are spiritually dead and there comes a master
who touches our life like never before and we change ourselves.” Ganesha
idol is immersed in water at the end of fourth or fifth day during
Vinayaka Chaturthi festival. What is the significance behind this act? The
idol is made of clay. We worship the form, but at the end of fourth day,
it is immersed in water. The message is clear, “You have worshipped the
form, now dissolve it and go to the formless. The Ultimate is formless.”
He related a story from the Mahapurana wherein Brahma and Vishnu vied with
one another as to who is superior. Then Siva took the form of a huge
pillar of flame and set a precondition that whosoever between them reaches
the tip or the root is superior. Brahma took the form of a swan and flew
up in search of the tip and Vishnu took the form of a wild pig and started
digging in search of the root. They did it for centuries, but could not
accomplish the task. Then Siva manifested in the form of a Linga and told
them that unless the ego is given up, they cannot reach the Divine. He
explained the meaning of Namah Sivaya (nothing belongs to me, everything
belongs to Siva). The speaker narrated many interesting anecdotes pregnant
with meaning from the scriptures and ended his wonderful speech.
The next speaker Sri V. Srinivasan expressed his gratitude to Bhagawan for
the great opportunity bestowed on him to speak on this occasion. He began
his speech by saying that never before in human history, an Athi Rudra
Maha Yajna was conducted on earth in the presence of Lord Rudra Himself
and in future if this event were to take place, it would be in the
presence of Saiswara. The benefits of the Yajna, be it material or
spiritual is profound, the munificence of Lord Siva will be showered on
each one of them. He appreciated the dedicated efforts of the youth of
Karnataka led by Sri Vinay Kumar. They have set an ideal for the youth of
other States, not only in conducting such a Yajna, but the spirit of unity
demonstrated by them.
Why are youth attracted to Bhagawan because they see that only Sai does
what He says. They are attracted to truth and Sai is truth personified.
Bhagawan expects the youth and students to serve their parents, their
community and society.
If you want to know what is love and compassion, go to the villages of
East Godavari district. The tribals are immensely happy. Though the river
Godavari flowing nearby, nobody channelised the water to their villages.
It is Bhagawan who has given water to the upland areas of East Godavari.
It is only Bhagawan who has made it possible for all 550 villages of East
Godavari and West Godavari to get drinking water. The same feelings of
love and compassion are echoed by the slum dwellers of Chennai. They had
to keep awake in the middle of night waiting for the water tanker to
arrive. Now Chennai gets copious supply of pure drinking water through the
Sri Sathya Sai Water Project. A Muslim taxi driver in Mumbai is full of
gratitude to Bhagawan because he underwent heart surgery in Super
Speciality Hospital when he was running from pillar to post for arranging
finance for his treatment. With tears in eyes, he said, “It was only
Bhagawan Baba who came to my rescue. I don’t know how to repay my
gratitude. The only way I feel is every year for one month, I will do Seva
(voluntary service) in Prasanthi Nilayam.” The learned speaker concluded
his speech by saying that with Bhagawan’s grace, this Yajna will bring
forth the Siva within us giving new meaning to the Mantra, “Om Namah
Sivaya” and make us fitting instruments in the hands of our Lord, Bhagawan
Sri Sathya Sai Baba.
After the speech of Sri Srinivasan, Bhagawan delivered His Divine
Discourse. Bhagawan began His Discourse with a Telugu Poem: “The day on
which all the devotees gather and sing the glory of God melodiously; the
day on which the sufferings of the poor are lovingly removed; the day on
which noble souls visit us and narrate the stories of God lovingly; enjoy
that day as the days to be reckoned. All other days are mere death
anniversaries.”
The youth are responsible for all the agitation and restlessness in the
world today. In spite of his education and intelligence, a foolish man
will not know his true Self and a mean-minded person will not give up his
evil qualities. (Telugu Poem)
After acquiring high degrees, they pride over their achievement. Due to
the influence of English language, the love for one’s religion and
tradition has diminished, with the result they have forgotten their
culture. The wealth of this country is lost. There is unrest and agitation
everywhere. In all fields, morality has declined. If we compare a pauper
with a millionaire, it is the pauper who is great because the millionaire
in spite of possessing wealth in plenty does not part with his wealth for
sacred purposes, but is ever ready to seek name and fame. Under these
circumstances, the youth should move forward enthusiastically. For the
country to progress, the youth should take the lead. The youth possess
immense physical and mental strength and intelligence. If they decide,
they can achieve anything. They have to divert all their power for the
service of mankind. A sixteen-year-old looks so weak. The weakness is not
due to malnutrition, but it is because the senses are misused. Once the
senses are weak, his whole being becomes weak. So, senses are the
life-breath of man. Youngsters should be very careful. They need to
exercise sense control. Bhagawan is explaining these things because of his
infinite love for the youth of this country. Parents in this respect
should be very careful. They shower their love on their wards. But when
the son/daughter gets spoilt, who gets the bad name? It is the parent who
gets the bad name.
So many lakhs of people gather here in the Divine presence. Who sends them
invitation? Nobody sends them invitation. It is their love for Bhagawan
that makes them come here. Never give up your love. Let it grow more and
more.
Bharatiyas are neglecting the Vedas, but the foreigners come from foreign
countries and learn the Vedas and the Sanskrit language. Bharatiyas should
know the sanctity and sacredness of this country. What is the divine
nature of Bharat? Who is mother? Morality is mother, integrity and honesty
is father, peace is sister and courage is brother. We should have such
kind of relationship.
Bhagawan depends on Truth. He has no fear whatsoever. The one who depends
on Truth will have no fear whatsoever. In future, Bhagawan is going to
reveal many more things.
After Bhagawan’s Discourse, Prasadam was distributed to all the devotees.
Bhagawan was offered Arati and then He retired for the day.
Bhagawan’s
Discourse 13th Aug - 2006
CULTIVATE HUMANNESS AND BE AN IDEAL TO SOCIETY
The day on which all the devotees gather and sing the glory of God
melodiously, the day on which the sufferings of the poor are lovingly
removed and all people live like brothers and sisters, the day on which
groups of Dasas (servants of God) who constantly contemplate on God are
served a sumptuous feast, the day on which noble souls visit us and
narrate the stories of God lovingly, enjoy that day as the real day. All
other days are mere death anniversaries. Do I need to say more, oh noble
souls?
(Telugu poem)
Embodiments of Love!
Our All India President, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Srinivasan has
just now stated that Vinay, who made excellent arrangements for this Yajna
is a very bright and educated young man. I am very happy about it.
Though Srinivasan did not specifically make a mention about youth in
general, it is necessary for Me to add that the youth are also responsible
for the unrest and agitation in the world today.
In spite of his education and intelligence, a foolish man will not know
his true Self and a mean-minded person will not give up his evil
qualities. (Telugu poem)
No doubt, the youth today are highly educated, having obtained graduate
and postgraduate degrees. Though they are occupying high positions; yet,
instead of realising the essence of education, they are inflated with
pride thinking, “we are highly educated, we have obtained high academic
degrees.” Due to this pride, they are forgetting the culture and
traditions of their own country and religion.
The day when people were engulfed in fascination for English language,
knowledge of one’s own religion and language declined;
When knowledge of one’s own religion and language declined,
the cultural outlook disappeared;
When cultural outlook disappeared, the righteousness declined on the
earth;
When righteousness declined and disappeared from the earth,
the exalted position of Bharat was shattered.
(Telugu poem)
Wherever you see, there is unrest and chaos in the world today. Respect
for elders and their own country has become extinct. Basic humanness has
been lost. This lack of respect and lawlessness has spread to every field
- moral, physical, secular and even spiritual. From a millionaire to a
pauper, everyone is becoming a beggar. The pauper is begging for alms; the
millionaire is also begging. Who is big and who is small in this
profession of begging? To speak the truth, it is the poor who does not
have a square meal a day and therefore begs for alms more seems to be a
little magnanimous for he even shares his food with a fellow beggar. On
the other hand, a millionaire does not throw even a coin in charity. The
rich do not even come forward to extend a helping hand for sacred, noble
and charitable purposes. Yet, they pretend to give munificent donations
for such purposes and get their pictures printed in the newspapers with
headlines for publicity. When it comes to action, they are far away. If
you actually see their activities, you find they are most despicable and
worthless. The youth must come forward with enthusiasm to remedy the
situation. The youth are the right persons to bring about a change for the
better in the country. The physical energy, acuteness of the senses and
intellectual sharpness present in the youth are not to be found in the
other section of people in the society. If they take a firm resolve, they
can achieve anything. The youth should take a pledge to utilise their
strength of senses, mental energy, physical energy, intellectual and Atmic
power for the benefit of society. They have to conserve the divine energy
of their senses and strive for the welfare of society. They have to
protect the country. Then only do they deserve to be called real human
beings.
Unfortunately, today, youth are becoming weak by succumbing to trivial
attractions. Even a sixteen-year-old boy who is supposed to be physically
strong is seen to be lean and emaciated. It is not due to lack of food and
nourishment. It is due to the misuse of his senses that he becomes weak.
It is a great mistake to weaken one’s senses by misusing them. When the
senses become weak, man becomes weak. Unfortunately, today the youth are
misusing the vital energy of their senses. Added to this, their parents
are also encouraging this abuse by giving them too much money. Thus, the
parents are also committing a great sin by their support. In fact, it is
they who are responsible for their wards taking to wrong ways. The
children, no doubt, should be given freedom, but only to the extent
necessary. Excessive freedom breeds permissiveness. This permissiveness
coupled with unlimited money in the hands of children will spoil them. Too
much money causes many wrongs. Money has to be used properly. Don’t waste
money, misuse of money is evil. Don’t waste food, food is God. Don’t waste
time; time waste is life waste. The present-day youth are wasting money,
food and time. Thus, they are getting spoiled.
How is the vision of the youth today? They do not have a steady vision
even for a second. Their restless eyes are wandering all around. The
vision of the present-day youth can be likened to that of a crow. Whatever
they see, they develop a desire for it. That too for what? For undesirable
things. First and foremost, the youth have to control their vision. The
eye teaches a big lesson to us. As is the vision, so is the creation.
Hence, you should not look at anyone with an evil design. You should not
develop a desire for everything that you see. I would like to be frank.
Please do not take me amiss. Students will be going to the college on
bicycles. When they see some girls passing by, they would stop and stare
at them. It is only due to such irresponsible behaviour, several accidents
are taking place nowadays. Accidents involving two-wheelers are also on
the increase. They stare at everything going on in the bazaar and every
lady walking on the street while riding the motorcycle, especially when
they pass a girls’ college, their eyes are glued to the college. Is this
the purpose for which God has given you eyes?
Do you know the purpose for which the eyes are given to you?
Is it to look at anything and everything that you come across?
No, no; you are endowed with eyes so that you may attain the vision of the
Lord of Kailasa.
Do you know the purpose for which the mind is given to you?
Is it to wander in the lanes and bylanes?
No, no; the mind is given to you to experience bliss by contemplating on
the beautiful form and name of God.
(Telugu song)
Today, the youth, especially the young men, have poisoned vision. Their
speech is evil. Their behaviour, language and conduct - everything is bad.
They gossip on the looks and character of passersby. But, they have no
time for discussing about Atmananda (Atmic bliss). In fact, bliss is
beautiful. Nothing can match such beauty. If you want to enjoy such Atmic
bliss, you (especially the youth) should control your vision. Whenever
your vision falls on undesirable objects, you must caution yourself,
“Watch out! I am born as a human being, not an animal. God has given me
eyes to see the wonders of His creation and not the external beauty of
individuals.” If three boys gather at a place, all that they talk about
are useless topics. In fact, how sacred is our tongue!
Oh tongue, the knower of taste! You are very sacred. Speak the truth in
the most pleasing manner. Chant the Divine Names of Govinda, Madhava and
Damodara incessantly. This is your foremost duty .
(Sanskrit verse)
Our tongue is a gift of God for the purpose of speaking sweet words.
Hence, we should never speak bad words. The tongue must always be used for
sacred purposes. We have to witness the beautiful form of God with our
eyes. There are some young men who visit the temples. But, instead of
seeing the divine form of God, they fix their gaze on the ladies visiting
the temple. Is this the vision expected of a human being? Man becomes a
demon by faulty vision, useless talk and behaviour and hearing such
gossip. The youth especially must be very careful today. They must
exercise proper control over their senses. If such restraint is exercised,
there will be no possibility of erring.
Embodiments of Love!
I am telling all this out of love for you. You may conceal all your bad
intentions and put up an angelic face outside. But, I cannot do so. I have
to call a spade a spade. I have to speak the truth. Parents and elders
have also to be careful in this aspect. Some parents exhibit too much of
indulgence in their children’s craving, “My darling son! You may show your
love and affection on your child, but not on bad behaviour. If the child
is spoiled on account of your blind love, who gets the discredit? Only the
parents!
The Vedas declare Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava,
Athiti Devo Bhava (revere your mother, father, preceptor and guest as
God). The parents have given you life. They are responsible for your
birth. Hence, you have to love your parents wholeheartedly under all
circumstances. You have to realise the truth that first and foremost your
mother is God and next your father and that they are protecting you
constantly. Of what use are your achievements in life, if you forget the
very embodiments of divinity (that is father and mother) who are right in
front of you? Our Seva Dal and youth wing shall propagate such teachings
and try to arrest the degeneration in society. You may encounter any
number of obstacles in this task; but you should overcome them and march
forward. You may even stake your life in this task of restoring the
society to right path.
The youth should not waste money or their words. Keep silence. Maintain
your poise under all circumstances. It is said mounath kalaham nasthi
(there will be no quarrel if you maintain silence). Our Srinivasan, All
India President, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, advised the youth that
they should receive proper training in technology. But, what you learn
today is not technology, but ‘trick-nology’. Man is getting spoiled only
on account of his ‘tricks’.
Students! Members of the youth wing! You must all be very careful. You
must uphold the dignity of your family. You have to realise the intimate
relationship that exists between the individual and society and conduct
yourself accordingly. Prahlada, the young lad was sent by his father
Hiranyakasipu to his teachers, Chanda and Amarka to learn various Sastras
(scriptures). The teachers taught him several subjects. After some time,
the father called Prahlada and made him sit on his lap and enquired, “Dear
son! How is your education going on? What did you learn?
Prahlada then replied,
Father! The teachers have taught me many things,I have understood the four
objectives of life – Dharma (righteousness), Artha (wealth), Kama (desire)
and Moksha (liberation). I have studied many things; in fact, I have
understood the very essence of education. (Telugu poem)
Hiranyakasipu then asked him, “Look! Can you explain to me one topic which
you have studied?” Prahlada replied, “Character is the most important
thing for every individual. A man without character is equivalent to an
animal.” Father Hiranyakasipu got very angry at his son’s reply. Even the
members in the royal court were dumbfounded by Prahlada’s words.
Hiranyakasipu then called one lady and asked Prahlada, “Who is this
lady?”, pointing to her. Prahlada replied “She is my mother.” In fact, she
was not his real mother. She was only a servant. Then Hiranyakasipu called
all the ladies and made them to stand in front of him and asked Prahlada
“Who are these ladies?” Prahlada gave a beautiful reply saying, “All those
who are younger to me are my younger sisters and elder to me are elder
sisters.” The father was aghast at his reply. He was very angry with his
son’s replies. He therefore called the teachers and chided them, “Is this
the education you are imparting to the children? When they grow up, they
naturally follow these principles.” The father warned them, “You should
not teach such things to the children”. He commanded the teachers to
restrain Prahlada from contemplating on Hari Nama (the Divine name of Lord
Vishnu). The teachers Chanda and Amarka were terribly afraid. As soon as
they returned to the Gurukula, they tried to dissuade Prahlada in so many
ways from repeating the Lord’s name. They reprimanded him orally and even
gave him physical punishment. But, Prahlada did not yield. He told them
frankly, “Respected Teachers! Is the one that dissuades the pupils from
contemplating on the Divine name of Hari, a Guru in the real sense? Like
the true father who advises the child to attain Hari (God), the Guru also
should teach his disciple to contemplate on Hari. Instead of teaching such
sacred things, you are trying to push me into worldly matters. I don’t
want such education.” Thereafter, he left the Gurukula and set out on his
mission singing the glory of Lord Hari. He began teaching to his fellow
students, “There is none higher than Hari.” Devotion to God is essential
for everyone. Divinity is immanent in all beings.
It is said ‘E aswara sarva bhutanam’ (God is the indweller of all beings).
I wish that you too, like Prahlada, must encourage one and all to worship
and contemplate on divinity at all times. When you undertake propagation
of such ideals you can bring about a wonderful transformation in the
society, quickly. Before you embark upon such a mission, you must make a
beginning in your own house. The parents can give you the physical body
only. But, who sustains the Atma Tattwa? God is the only refuge. Hence,
parents should set an example by instilling in the children the urge to
realise divinity.
The body is made up of five elements and is bound to perish sooner or
later, but the indweller has neither birth nor death. The indweller has no
attachment whatsoever and is the eternal witness.
(Telugu poem)
However much you nourish the body, it is bound to perish sooner or later.
Nobody seems to know whether it is proper for a human being to spend time
merely, indulging in eating, sleeping, and procreation like the animals,
birds and beasts. No, not at all! Man has to sanctify every moment of his
life by contemplating on God. That is what the parents have to teach their
children. That is what remains with us and follows us beyond death. It is
the foremost duty of the parents to teach such a sacred path to the
children. The Gurus (teachers) have also to teach such noble things to the
students. Today, the gurus are imparting mere textbook knowledge to the
students. The children also seem to have taste for such knowledge. Hence,
each one of you should visit some school and teach such noble things to
the students. Born as human beings, is it proper for you to make obscene
comments against womenhood? If you harass ladies with your vile words,
will others keep quiet? Will they not harass your own family members? Will
they spare your own wife and children? Hence, first and foremost, you have
to respect others. Then only will you receive their love and respect. At
present, especially the youth have to cultivate humanness. It is exactly
for this sacred purpose that we started the youth wing in Sri Sathya Sai
Seva Organisations. The youth have to set an ideal to others in society.
Those who roam about in the bazaar aimlessly are verily donkeys. They
cannot be considered as human beings. It is not such a life that the youth
have to lead. The donkeys wander in the streets, braying. You are not a
donkey. You are God, truly. Hence, stay firm in your sacred humanness.
Keep up your prestige. This is the foremost duty of the youth.
There are yet other youngsters who secretly read trashy books. They keep
such trash in between the pages of their textbooks and read them without
being noticed by others. What they actually read are trash novels, but
they pretend to be reading textbooks. Thus, they try to deceive even the
teachers. This is unbecoming of a human being. Whenever any bad thoughts
arise in your mind, that very moment you remind yourself that you are a
human being and not an animal. Your behaviour should be befitting that of
a human being. Then only you have the right to call yourself a human
being. It is only when you nourish and nurture the human values does your
education acquires value.
Embodiments of Love!
I have great love towards you. None can measure My love or compare it to
this and that. My love is uniform without any bias or preference. My love
can match only My love. I am not concerned with what people may think
about Me. Some people accuse Me also. Some people write several things
about Me in the newspapers. They also publish the ‘nuisance’ coming from
abroad. In this context, I would like to ask one question. Can a person
copying such a nuisance and publishing it in the newspaper be called a
journalist? Not at all! A true journalist will never indulge in such
slander. He will rely on the news gathered by him personally and on his
personal experience. He will never give importance to some ‘nuisance’
published by others somewhere in London or America . Those who listen to
such trash and propagate them are like dogs. Whenever a dog barks in some
corner, another dog in a nearby street hears it and starts barking. Thus,
those who imitate others are like dogs, not human beings. Whatever people
may think, we are wedded to Truth. We are embodiments of Truth, verily.
Hence, you should not give credence to untruth. If people say some
nonsense about you, let them do so. The dogs bark. We are not concerned
with them. Those who criticise us with an evil intention are to be treated
as dogs, not human beings. Many people come to Swami. Did we send any
invitations to them? Not at all! Some people are jealous of the
recognition that Swami’s great humanitarian service is getting all over
the world and try to slander His name. I would like to say this much to
such people - let them attract people from all walks of life in such large
numbers from all over the world, if they wish. It is impossible. Not even
ten people will gather around them. What is the reason? That goodness and
helping nature is not in them. That is only to be found in Divinity. That
only attracts all people.
Embodiments of Love!
We see and hear so many things in the world. But, let us not be moved by
such things. You stay firm in your love for Swami. You have no reason to
hide your love; continue to shower your love on one and all. Then only
your mind becomes pure and sacred and your birth as a human being will be
sanctified. Then only you deserve to be called human beings. Otherwise,
you will degenerate yourself into demons. Do not be misguided by others’
words. Whatever you listen to in this sacred Yajnasala, preserve it
carefully in your mind. Install God in your heart.
Embodiments of Love!
You may feel that Swami is using harsh words. You should not feel upset
about it. On the other hand, you must feel happy that Swami is speaking
the truth. Divinity is invincible. It is not something to be advertised.
You may go through any newspaper. It is full of advertisements. Most of
the advertisements contain false statements. The extent to which their
sense of discrimination has degenerated is beyond description. This is
sheer foolishness. If they are really human beings, they would not have
advertised such false things. If they are so interested, they should come
and observe what is going on here and feel happy about it. It is a serious
mistake to put up news items and advertisements indiscriminately, basing
on hearsay. The readers should also make efforts to realise the truth.
There will be none to punish or subdue you, if you are wedded to truth.
Hence, uphold truth at all times. Your truth is your witness and Swami is
the eternal witness to everything that goes on in the world. We should not
be fools. We must become flowers that will be offered to God. Instead, we
are living like fools. This is not good.
Dear students! There are several things that are to be told to you. I am
mentioning all these things only to correct your behaviour. Love! Love!
Love! Love! Cultivate love! That would be enough. However, this love
should not be extended to all and sundry things in the world. It should be
steadily fixed on God. Then you will become good individuals. Otherwise,
of what use is your education? Today, ‘education’ is leading to
‘agitation’. If this situation is to be corrected, ‘education’ must be
supplemented with ‘educare’. Education can be acquired from textbooks.
‘Educare’ has, however, to be manifested from the heart. Hence, one has to
take up ‘educare’ also. ‘Educare’ involves manifesting the human values
that are latent in one’s own heart. The secular education can be obtained
from the books. The book is like a ‘mukku’ (nose), whereas ‘educare’ is
the very breath that is inhaled through the nose. If there is no breath,
it amounts to death. Similarly, humanness cannot survive without human
values that are to be manifested through the process of ‘educare’.
Dear Students! You are all embodiments of the Divine Self. You are all
very good boys and girls. You are golden children verily! However, you
should not be like the 14 carat gold. You must be like the pure 24 carat
gold. You should not lose your value. If you thus lead your lives like
pure gold, I will extend all possible help to all of you. I will help you
financially and spiritually in every endeavour you undertake. You become
good children. Get good name to your parents, Institution and to Swami.
(Swami then called a student from America and another from Russia , who
are studying in Prasanthi Nilayam campus and asked them to recite Namakam
and Sri Suktam). This boy is from America and that boy is from Russia .
You see how they are chanting in one voice! These boys can recite several
Vedic Mantras like Namakam, Chamakam, etc. There are several others from
different countries who are learning the Vedas. However, it is only
Indians who are neglecting the Vedas. Foreigners learn Sanskrit and chant
the Vedas clearly with proper intonation. In contrast, what do the Indians
learn? “Ding dong bell; pussy is in the well.” These are the nursery
rhymes we teach to the children from the early age! This is not correct
education. We have to realise the sanctity of Indian culture and
spirituality. Morality and integrity are the mother and father in Indian
culture. Equanimity is the sister and courage is the brother.
Unfortunately, today people cultivate ephemeral relationships, forgetting
eternal and sacred relationships. One should not develop such foolish
relationships. Tell me your company, I shall tell you what you are. Since
there is a lot of time available to us, I will explain to you in greater
detail in the coming days. I will teach you what all is necessary for you.
I am not afraid of anyone. I am attached to Truth. I don’t mind what
people may think of Me. Those who believe in Truth, will not be afraid of
anyone. Hence, I will reveal to you more in the coming days.
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Latest Sai
Vichaar: 
23rd July, Sainews in
brief :
Devotees present at Kulwant Hall today
enjoyed the wonderful and long darshan of Swami since there was a
program by devotees [singers] from Karnataka state, Swami was out on
the veranda between 3 p.m -5 30. p.m. giving us blissful darshan for
nearly 3 hours.
Also see car
darshan photos from 17th July
