The Hindu Article - Path of action shown by God

July 22, 2003

Date:23/07/2003 URL:

Miscellaneous - Religion

Path of action shown by God

CHENNAI JULY 23. Can the cultural and religious ethos of India be defined in

a succinct manner? To this question an outstanding personality replied like

this: "Sathyam, Sivam, Sundaram." Suitably amplified, these three words will

cover the entire gamut of Indian traditional thinking and acting. The first

implies that everyone should speak Truth only under all circumstances.

Anyone who tries to escape from his unethical acts may utter a lie but this

temporary step will surely make him resort to several false statements later

just to justify the original one. Problems have to be faced boldly and God

will come to his help. The second, usually mistaken as referring to God of

this name, is indeed "auspiciousness" and "peace and prosperity" and

"successful glorious conclusion". This will mean that everyone should work

hard and put in all efforts to emerge triumphant in his endeavour. There

will be obstacles in the way but God, in His Bhagavad Gita, has given the

recipe for such ills.

The third connotes the need to keep the mind pure, even as one will be eager

to maintain his body in a perfect state. This is to enable him to contribute

his part towards society. God has prescribed 12 key points for man's safe

journey in life in His message to humanity, explained Swamini Nirmalananda

in a discourse. To whom should a man look to when he is immersed in sorrow?

The only permanent adviser is God or His divine representatives who are

engaged in spreading His message. This broadly forms the theme in the first

of the 18 chapters in this eternal scripture expounding the twin doctrines

of duty and devotion. Its message is applicable to all of us (conveyed

through Arjuna to get rid of misplaced compassion).

Why have all of us come in this world? How to overcome dejection? God says

we should do our duty and remaining dormant will not solve the problem. He

next describes the path of action. It is also necessary to equip oneself

with spiritual knowledge so as to avoid bondage. More important advice

tendered by God is to shed one's "ego", not claiming the success he gains as

only due to him. He does act at God's instance and as His instrument. In His

sermon, the Lord tells Arjuna about creation of God, the formless and one

with form. The Lord adds that one who knows Him as the Beginningless, Unborn

and Supreme will be freed from delusion and is purged of all kinds of sins.

Recommended Posts