Guest guest Posted August 29, 2008 Report Share Posted August 29, 2008 Om Namah Sivaya Charya A young man brings the sacred temple puja implements to the family well, using water and lime to clean and polish the brass pots, camphor holders and oil lamps. Goddesses of the home look on in silent benediction of his simple selfless service. Charya, literally "conduct," is the first stage of religiousness and the foundation for the next three stages. It is also called the dasa marga, meaning "path of servitude," for here the soul relates to God as servant to master. The disciplines of charya include humble service, attending the temple, performing one's duty to community and family, honoring holy men, respecting elders, atoning for misdeeds and fulfilling the ten classical restraints called yamas. Within a strong society, one performs charya whether he wants to or not. Young or rebellious souls often resist and resent, whereas mature souls fulfill these obligations most naturally. Right behavior and self-sacrificing service are never outgrown. The keynote of charya, or karma yoga, is seva, religious service given without the least thought of reward, which has the magical effect of softening the ego and bringing forth the soul's innate devotion. The Tirumantiram explains, "The simple temple duties, lighting the lamps, picking flowers, lovingly polishing the floors, sweeping, singing the Lord's praise, ringing the bell and fetching ceremonial water--these constitute the dasa marga." Sivaya NamahSend instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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