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Source: The Hindu

(http://www.hinduonnet.com/2002/01/16/stories/2002011601230800.htm)

 

Miscellaneous

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Religion

 

 

Human body, most precious gift of God

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHENNAI, JAN. 16. Various doubts regarding the necessity to observe religious

austerities have been raised on and off by some. One among them is: ``Should not

God, described as being all-powerful and compassionate, fulfil all my desires

without any need on my part to make any endeavour?'' They expect God even to

take care of their daily necessities, themselves doing nothing or arguing that,

of His own accord, the Lord should bestow His grace on His servants and protect

them and that it is not incumbent on them to resort to religious practices. This

argument can be called ``dry philosophy'' as the Lord, though Omnipotent, makes

the man adopt some gesture, some means, or pretext on his part and in

consideration of it, protects him in order that the fault of partiality may not

stain Him.

 

The Lord has shown to an aspirant very easy paths, walking on which he can gain

the goal. The option has been given to choose any one of them. For this generous

act by Him only, He has given him a body, using which he can adopt the route of

his choice. If none of these procedures is possible for him to follow, as

adherence to rules may be found difficult and strenuous, he has the final

decision to submit himself at His feet expressing his total inability to save

himself. Such a devotee should demonstrate his absolute faith in the Lord only

and should refrain from doing any act which will displease Him.

 

In his discourse, Sri Srimannarayana Ramanuja Jeeyar Swami said the human body

is the most precious gift of God and it cannot be obtained or ``procured'' even

on hefty payment. It is like a valuable device or an electronic gadget that has

to be operated with great care. God has also provided many avenues which can

lead him to the goal. This act of His is compared to extending electricity to a

house or keeping a lamp in a dark chamber. Should he not at least use the switch

to make the lights burn or the fans run or ignite the lamp's wick to spread

light and remove the darkness in the room? Man has before him numerous spiritual

exercises which can be learnt with the guidance of Acharyas, failing which he

can surrender himself before God, who is ready to embrace him. Even if

provisions are made available for a man, he must cook before he partakes the

food. So, too man should do his duty. Another familiar question raised by some

is about the problem faced by men who are devoted !

to God while those who decry Him appear to go scot-free. God gives tests for His

devotees and ultimately takes them into His care.

 

 

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