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Source: The Hindu

(http://www.hinduonnet.com/2002/04/13/stories/2002041300530800.htm)

Miscellaneous

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Religion

 

 

Human birth, meant for realising God

 

 

 

 

CHENNAI

APRIL 13.

 

It may be perplexing to spiritual aspirants to note that saints who have

experienced the exalted state of union with the Self (Atman) adopt spiritual

practices like the laity who practise it as a means to realise God. It should be

borne in mind that saints set an example for others and hence whatever they do

is for the sake of those who are endeavouring to realise the goal of liberation.

Their devotion bears the stamp of their spiritual experience unlike that of

spiritual aspirants who are anxious whether they will be able to realise God.

This can be understood with the example of some people climbing a steep hill to

offer prayer in a temple on the top of the hill. Each one's progress will be

according to his physical stamina. The one who has reached the top will enthuse

the others who are struggling at different levels by coaxing them that they can

also reach it as he has done. The saints are like the one who has reached the

top of the hill and inspire others who are strugg!

ling in worldly life to realise God.

 

In his discourse, Swami Gautamananda said only a person who had intense thirst

for liberation from worldly bondage would develop the inclination to follow in

the footsteps of saints. The lives of saints documented by their disciples prove

to be a source of perennial inspiration by providing rare insights during the

long course of spiritual evolution. It is easy to enjoy worldly pleasures in

life but at some point of time one will realise that they are short-lived. This

understanding then develops into spiritual thirst when it becomes obvious that

only realising God gives lasting joy.

 

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa used to tell his devotees that a person privileged

to be born as a human being has to fulfil his obligations in life but must

always keep the spiritual goal uppermost in his mind. Further, one must pursue

the goal right from youth as one's ability, faculties and determination diminish

with age. A person who is wise will not fritter away his time and energy in

worldly pursuits. He will utilise this birth fruitfully for realising the goal

of liberation because the gain is manifold when compared to what one can hope to

enjoy in the world. It is similar to spending Rs.10 to buy a lottery ticket to

win Rs.10,000. If one does not win the lottery the amount lost is insignificant

when compared to the prize money if one wins. It requires conviction to exercise

the right choice in life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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