Hindu Article-A pragmatic approach

[Guest guest]

A pragmatic approach

 

CHENNAI: : Spiritual enquiry is a gradual process. Curiosity to know

the cause of our existence and the relationship to the created world

is the starting point of this quest. An open mind that rises above

dogma, preconceived notions, doctrines, sects and creeds is necessary

in this regard. Along with this there should also be a willingness to

know and understand the complex of this Universe. Each individual's

quest is a personal search and becomes meaningful with every sincere

effort taken. In Sri Ramakrishna's teachings that emphasise the path

of experiential realisation of Reality, the accent is on the

individual's honest endeavour to develop devotion, said Swami

Gautamananda in a lecture. Though religions and philosophical

theories are different paths to reach the goal of God realisation, it

is for each individual to experience God and realise His presence

within himself or herself.

 

The analogy of a pot of water in the ocean where water is inside the

pot and outside as well is used to illustrate the unique pervasive

nature of God who dwells within every living being and outside. To

the keen observer, the world around us is a constant reminder of

God's presence. Once this truth becomes fixed in our consciousness,

it leads to the development of equanimity of mind. The habit of

thinking about God, trying to feel His presence within us, can make

it an ever-present state in us. The feeling of God's companionship is

a great asset, since He will be a constant witness to all our

thoughts words and deeds. Knowing that He listens to us, that He will

be happy if we are happy, and sad if we are depressed, will add

significance to our life. This helps to develop faith and love.

 

We cannot exist apart from God. Ego brings in its trail attachment

that takes one away from the goal. The feeling that nothing belongs

to us and everything belongs to God can help the Self to be aligned

with God.

 

This is the devotion that great saints and savants have experienced.

They have shown us the way to God realisation in different ways by

leading a life of detachment. If we tend to think we are responsible

and that we are doing or achieving, then we tend to get attached.

Devotion manifests in the degree of closeness an individual feels

towards God, leading to detachment and loss of the sense of the ego.

 

copy right: The Hindu-daily

[Guest guest]

A terrific article, B.V.. I appreciate your posting it very much!

 

Chennai: "If we tend to think we are responsible and that we are doing

or achieving, then we tend to get attached.

 

NS: If we "think that we are responsible," we are already seriously

attached; no "tend" about it.

Keep up the good work, NS