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Sunday, January 24, 2010
January Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: Chand Mat
Baba Faqir Chand's Commentary on the Esoteric Instructions of Swami Ji Maharaj (Hidayatnama)
Program Length: 41 Minutes
*Click to go to Blog Talk Radio Page and Listen or Download:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2010/01/24/january-2010-sant-mat-satsang-podcast
"The sages of India discovered the truth of man's potential perfection and his ability to actualize it in their thousands of years of spiritual experimentation. They wrote down the steps for this attainment for their followers. The tradition of passing, from master to disciple, this spontaneous achievement of living in God in our waking life has continued in almost all the cultures of the world, but the secrecy and mystery of this mysticism have often led to confusion even until the present day.
"Some paths and techniques of meditation are indirect, vague, complicated, and difficult.
"The uncovering of this secret and the simplest explanation of this universal way of man's union with God is the fundamental purpose of this book.
"The epitome of the pathway of God-realization is expounded in Surat-Shabda Yoga, or Union with God through the technique of Light and Sound. This path has been present, although concealed, in all major religions of the world. Recently however, its direct revelation and practical application have openly emerged." (I.C. Sharma, from the Introduction to, Instructions For Seekers-Surat Shabda Yoga-The Yoga of Light and Sound)
Baba Faqir Chand, Radhasoami Satsang Hoshiarpur (Manavta Mandir Ashram)
The theme this month is "Chand Mat", that is to say, the teachings of the Baba Faqir Chand branch of the Radhasoami Faith, with readings from: The Sar Bachan Poetry of Swami Ji Maharaj, including from the Esoteric Instructions (Hidayatnama) of Swami Ji, a prayer from Light On Ananda Yoga by Shiv Brat Lal, readings from Dr. Ishwar C. Sharma and Baba Faqir Chand from Instructions For Seekers-Surat Shabda Yoga-The Yoga of Light and Sound (Chand's Commentary on the Sar Bachan), Baba Faqir Chand from Jeewan Mukti (Liberation In Life), Enchanted Land from the chapter dedicated to Yogani Mata Ji, and a satsang discourse from J.L. Chaudhari.
Swami Ji Maharaj: Sadguru Khojo Ri Pyari, Jag Main Durlabh Ratan Yahi."My dearest aspirant! Continue your research for a true and perfect master, because he is rare like a precious diamond."
Baba Faqir Chand: "The masses adopt a Guru, merely on reputation, without making thorough research themselves. That is why they do not find real Gurus. If such rare saints are difficult to find, one should associate with those saints who are on the way to perfection. Only those persons are capable of uniting with God, or Truth, who consider other human beings equal to themselves and hold no jealousy, hatred, or other negative ideas in their mind....
"Disciple: But, most of the disciples have been associated with their Gurus for a very long time. Why then, have they not attained anything that is granted by a saint? Also, the Gurus have been engaging their disciples in different kinds of services. Why do they advise some disciples in one way and others in a different way?
"Faqir: In fact, a true master knows very well why a special disciple has come to his refuge. Some Gurus, who are keen to recruit as many disciples as they can, to exploit those people who are in trouble. But a true or perfect master never exploits his dear disciples. He loves them and advises them according to their respective backgrounds and capabilities, which are different for different people. He tells his disciples to be engaged in different kinds of activities, which either help them to fulfill their worldly desires of material things, or to rid themselves of those desires after a good deal of experience. A person can never realize Truth, or attain peace, as long as he is a slave to passions and desires. That is why Hidayatnama clearly says that first a devotee should resign his desires for wealth, prosperity, and family to the will of God and then go to the saints for guidance. In this way all his problems will be solved. Those who do not follow these instructions take a longer time to resolve their problems. The order of the perfect master and the path suggested by him should be considered as supreme. The seeker would experience peace and bliss by applying the instructions of his master to his practical daily life....
"Many Gurus are concerned with accumulating wealth and fame and their disciples are equally motivated by worldly desires. So instead of being enlightened and liberated, seekers are more and more involved in material things and thus subjected to the cycle of birth and death. When a Guru who is the true practitioner of The Yoga of Light and Sound is found by a disciple who is truly desirous of being freed from the spatio-temporal world, then and only then the relationship of the disciple and the master has some significance."
Jai Guru Radhasoami,
James,
Email:
James@SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com
Friday, January 22, 2010
Maharshi Mehi Related Guru Lineage Chart
(Swami Achyutanand Ji is also part of the same lineage.)
Sant Mat Book Review: The Philosophy of Liberation
Param Sant Tulsi Sahib (older)
The ocean of existence is unfathomably vast and without any port of safety. It cannot be crossed --- If you meet Satguru, the boatman, then only will you get across and reach your Abode. Listen, O friend! Great is the status of Sants. In that region of Sants there is neither sound nor any form. It is beyond Sunn [void] and Maha-sunn [great void].
Says Tulsi, he knows the True Name of the Abode of the August, Nameless and Infinite Being. (Shabdavalli of Param Sant Tulsi Sahib of Hathras)
Param Sant Tulsi Sahib (younger)
The soul (Surat), seeking to glimpse the Absolute, concentrates through its gaze at the tenth door,
Watching the luminous point, the pole star, the Moon and the Sun,
Surat hears many sweet sounds of the five spheres;
Mehi says, this is the quintessence of Santmat;
And he has only repeated the words of the saints,
He has understood and tested them fully,
They are so very true and are of great benefit to all.
-- Maharishi Mehi Paramahansa Ji Maharaj
Param Sant Tulsi Sahib (meditating)
Mixed Media: Book Reviews, Website Reviews, Music Reviews
By James Bean
Book Review: The Philosophy of Liberation
Copyright © Februrary 2007. All Rights Reserved.
"The Philosophy of Liberation"
By Maharishi Mehi Paramahansa Ji Maharaj
The Philosophy of Liberation
This is the first book in English featuring the teachings of Maharishi Mehi, in the lineage of Param Sant Tulsi Sahib, the famous Saint of Hathras, India. The lineage began with Sant Tulsi, then the torch was past to Baba Devi Sahib. Mehi was the next teacher, the third guru. Soon more writings from this lineage of Masters will soon be published and made available in English to spiritual seekers in the West.
This is an intriguing book that provides some surprisingly technical details about meditation practice. Anyone interested in developing their own successful daily meditation practice will greatly benefit from the wisdom and depth of, "The Philosophy of Liberation", as it systematically covers all aspects of the philosophy of the path and the technical details of spiritual practice rarely ever seen in print from any source outside of India. It is not light reading, and that is precisely what I like about it!
Maharshi Mehi Paramhansa (younger)
There are several techniques described, the specific details of which are taught to students at the time of their deeksha (initiation) into the practice: 1) developing a daily routine, the habit of meditating at the same time or times each day; 2) proper posture so that one is truly focused at the Third Eye and remains alert and awake; 3) Manas Japa [simran], a mantra repetition of a sacred word done mentally; 4) Manas Dhyan, the technique of mentally visualising a form of God or one's teacher; 5) Drshti Yoga, the technique of focusing upon an infinitesimal point. This point will eventually blossom into inner Light or visions of Light. One gazes into the middle of the darkness or the Light one sees while in meditation. Think of the infinitesimal point as being like a laser pointer or cursor keeping one focused. One passes from scene to scene and vision to vision always looking toward the center; 6) Nada Sadhana, the practice of inner spiritual hearing [Surat Shabd Yoga]; and, 7th) reaching the State of Oneness with the Supreme Being in the Pure Conscious Realm. The ultimate goal is to merge into the upper level of Kaivalya known as the Ocean of Love and Compassion, the Ultimate Reality of God in the Nirguna or Formless State, also described with terms such as Anami (Nameless) and Anadi (Soundlessness). Maharshi Mehi stated in the Philosophy of Liberation: "The center of the realm of Kaivalaya (Oneness or Pure Consciousness) is the Supreme Sovereign Itself." He also said: "Beyond the Realm of Oneness, there is only the Supreme Sovereign."
Maharshi Mehi Paramhansa (older)
Below are Excerpts from the Book: Moksha-Darsan (Philosophy of Salvation or Liberation), a Primary Text for Understanding Sant Mat (The Path of the Masters)
The Philosophy of Liberation
By Maharishi Mehi
All rights reserved ©2006 Santmat Society of North America
1. Stillness or steadiness is the essence of Shanti.
(Shanti is a Sanskrit word with several English meanings: peace, tranquility, bliss, etc. The peace which results from some degree of communion with God is Shanti.)
2. He who has attained Shanti is a saint.
3. Sant Mat encompasses the thoughts and way of saints.
4. The desire for attaining Shanti is natural in human beings.
In the Upanishads the formula for the attainment of Shanti is expounded by the seers and saints of these ancient works. Similar views have been expressed by the saints of all times, including such saints as Guru Nanak Sahab and Kabir Sahab who expounded their views in the Punjabi and Hindi languages respectively. Such expressions are for the inspiration and edification of all people.
Shahi Swami Paramahansa Ji Maharaj
However, the Upanishads uniquely and fully describe the means for attaining Shanti and describe the means for attaining the Highest Wisdom. That is why the Upanishads are considered the foundation of Sant Mat. Further, a comprehensive exposition of the Divine Word-Sound is given in the Upanishads which leads to the Highest Wisdom. The Upanishads explain the yogic techniques and systematic views of transcending thought and attaining the Absolute through the use of sound (Yoga of Surat-shabda). Sant Mat follows the yogic path as prescribed in the Upanishads and specifically employs Surat-shabda-Yoga in its practices. The result of such practice is the attainment of the Highest Goal, the knowledge of the Supreme.
This is not to undermine the teachings of other saints, but rather to say that in the Upanishads are found the basis of the teachings of these saints. Often the teachings of various saints would, on the surface, seem contradictory to each other or even contradictory to the principles of the Upanishads. In fact, there is an unbreakable unity in the spiritual views of all saints. In different times and in different places saints appear, and their followers name their tradition in respect to the particular saint. The appearance of differences can be attributed to time, place and language, giving varied labels to views which are in reality the same. Likewise, due to excessively zealous followers these seeming differences are often accentuated. When all sectarianism and the forms of the particular time or place of the writings of a saint are removed, the basic principles of Sant Mat are in unity. The Ultimate, Unbounded, Infinite state (as described in section 11) is the unique possession of a saint. Further, the means to attain this state (as described in section 59 and 61) are found in the writings of the saints. Even though there are differences in the name and form of the Deity of worship, the underlying unity of the Unbounded dissolves these seeming differences (according to the idea expounded in section 86).
Surat-Shabda-Yoga as a means to attain the Unbounded state is an integral and indispensable aspect of the Sant Mat tradition. Any tradition devoid of this essential aspect is not true Sant Mat. Various saints describe the Yoga of Surat -Shabda, and from these descriptions we become aware of the significance of Surat-Shabda-Yoga. The following are some words of the great saints, concerning the importance of Surat-Shabda-Yoga:
Guru Nanak Sahab states:
"The invisible and supra-sensory name of God (Divine Word-Sound) is extremely sweet and lovely."
Tuls-Das states:
"I offer homage to the Divine Name of the Universal Being, Ram, which is the cause of the sun, the moon and the fire. That Divine Universal Name is the form of the creator,
maintainer and destroyer."
............One will not succeed in Yoga if purity of character is disregarded. Lying, stealing, smoking, taking of drugs (including alcohol), violence, and adultery are all obstructions to the successful practice meet the Supreme Sovereign).
53. Listening to and study of the discourses on this sacred knowledge is an important step in the Sant Mat tradition. Listening to satsanga (spiritual discourses) is prescribed as an essential activity.
Swami Bhagirath Baba (meditating)
54. The personal and private instruction in the art of this spiritual practice should be received from a Sadguru (an accomplished spiritual master). Once the technique has been learned, one should practice it regularly and daily according to the instructions given by the master.
70. Through constant practice of the Meditation of Sound, the practitioner also experiences the Divine Light. Just as upon attending a concert, one cannot help but notice the beautiful setting, of Upper Nature, the plurality of sounds ceases to exist, and only then can the Essential Divine sound be experienced. Other sounds of the various Realms are not experienced at this level of the State of Oneness because diversity does not exist in the state of Oneness.
Swami Achyutanand Ji Maharaj
75. The State beyond Sound is acknowledged in the writings of saints as the goal of their teachings. In addition, their writings accept repetition of a Divine name, concentration on a form of the Divine, fixing the mind on a point and concentrating on the inner sounds of the different spheres as a means to reach the Soundless State. These four techniques are therefore essential in Sant Mat.
76. Without achieving perfection in the Yoga of Sound, the realization of the Supreme Sovereign God or the Knowledge of the Self cannot be achieved.
77. Without resolute devotion to the guru (a spiritual master), even by means of the Yoga of Sound, the realization of the Supreme Sovereign God is not possible. Without the help of the master, it is not possible to attain the full devotion for the Divine and the highest good.
82. The recognition of a true spiritual master is the most difficult of tasks. However, the one who has purity of character (rectitude), who practices diligently the Yoga of Sound, and who can explain clearly Sant Mat (the path of saints) can be accepted and trusted and given devotion as a spiritual master. A person without rectitude or purity of character, regardless of the other qualities just mentioned, should not be regarded as a true master.
If one has accepted a spiritual teacher and later finds him or her lacking in rectitude, that teacher should be abandoned. In spite of the teacher’s exquisite knowledge, association with that teacher is not desirable if he or she is lacking in moral character. As the aspirant is particularly affected by the teacher’s moral character, it is imperative to avoid teachers without moral virtues. Purity of character is the essential quality of a teacher and if purity is lacking that teacher is no better than an animal. A teacher lacking purity of character or other essential virtues is a false spiritual teacher. The fruits of accepting a true master are immense. Unfortunately, true teachers are few and difficult to find. A spiritual master who is wise, pure and a practitioner of the Yoga of Divine Sound gradually imparts his or her virtues to the student. The good will of the spiritual teacher cannot but help affecting the aspirant in a positive manner because one is affected by the power of a higher vibration. Section 77 describes the qualities of the teacher and how the aspirant benefits from his or her relationship with the teacher.
The master who practices the Yoga of Sound but is negligent in his moral character and in his spiritual knowledge is harmful to the seeker of spiritual knowledge. If one has accepted such a master, disregarding the importance of rectitude and knowledge, the aspirant would be deprived of the benefits of the association with a true preceptor, mentioned in the previous paragraph. In addition, in following an immoral teacher the aspirant would have the difficult task of not going astray, much less advancing on the spiritual path. However, without the aid of a true teacher this spiritual task can be undertaken by a few steadfast learned disciples. For most it is almost impossible to undertake this task. of gaining grace as described in the writings of the saints.
83. The aspiration to serve with love and behave humbly before the teacher arises naturally in the hearts of students. Therefore, devotion to the spiritual teacher is also natural. To say anything against devotion to the teacher is pointless. And also, the wise will not give devotion to an unworthy teacher and will influence other aspirants to do the same.
84. The four essential elements an aspirant of the spiritual path needs are the following: one, association of saints and hearing of things spiritual; two, moral rectitude; three, dedication to the teacher; and four practice of meditation. These essentials have previously been discussed; association is referenced in section 53; moral rectitude is addressed in section 60; meditation is referenced in sections 54 through 59. In Sant Mat an intense eagerness to acquire these essentials must be present. However, devotion to the teacher is paramount to the other three essentials and is the key to achieving the other three.
85. The desire of an individual to be free from sufferings and to attain the happiness of absolute peace is naturally present in the hearts of all. The purpose of Sant Mat is to provide a system which fulfills the desires of attaining absolute peace.
87. The practice of Nadanusandhana (the Yoga of Sound) is not mere child's play. Its full practice cannot be exercised by one who lacks Yama and Niyama (virtues and moral rectitude). See the following section 88 for more detail on Yama and Niyama.
There are sounds due to gross vibrations in the material body. To meditate on these gross sounds and believe it to be as the full practice of the Yoga of Sound shows a lack of knowledge of Yoga. According to the literature of the Sants (Saints), Yama and Niyama are essential for mastery in the practice of the Nadanusandhana (Yoga of Sound [Nada-nu-sandhana, the spiritual practice of inner Sound meditation, also called Surat Shabd Yoga]).
88. Yama consists of five disciplines: satya (truthfulness), ahimsa (non-violence), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacarya (continence), and aparigraha (control of greed or non-possessiveness).
Niyama also consists of five practices, which are the following: sauca (internal and external purity), santosha (contentment), tapas (penance), svadhyaya (study of spiritual matters) and lsvara pranidhana (meditation on God).
89. In following Yama and Niyama, one exercises aversion from the five sins, serves the spiritual master, attends satsang, and practices meditation as referred to in section 60.
90. A comfortable asana (a pose of sitting or posture) of keeping the head, neck and trunk straight and steady is a must for meditation. Without the ability to sit in such a steady posture for prolonged periods, meditation cannot be practiced.
91. Meditation should be practiced being alert, without being drowsy, shutting the eyes comfortably and without turning the eyeballs or pressing them in any way.
92. The practice of meditation should be an essential part of the practitioner's daily routine. The preferred time of meditation is Brahmamuhurta ([Hour of God: Brahma-mu-hurta, or Amrit Veela: Hour of Elixir]: very early in the morning: 3:00 A.M.). Likewise one should meditate at mid-morning and then again in the evening time. While falling asleep, one should also engage his mind in meditation. Further, it is good to practice Manas japa [Simran] or Manas dhyana [Dhyan] while working.
Swami Vyasanand Ji Maharaj (in his meditation cave)
93. Before learning the Nadanusandhana (meditation on inner Sound) in practicing Manas japa (mantra repetition), Manas dhyana (focusing on the form of the master or deity) and Drshti Yoga ([inner Light meditation in the Third Eye Center or Eye-Focus] focusing on a Point that is practicing one-pointedness), one should meditate with eyes and mouth shut. Upon learning Nadanusandhana (Yoga of Sound [Inner Sound meditation]) from the Master, one should also close the ears.
94..........In the initial stages of dhyana (absolute concentration), pratyahara is practiced. [Note: Pratyahara means to bring back. Bringing back or refocusing one's attention during meditation, bringing the mind distracted by worldly thoughts back to the Focal Point during meditation.] Through the means of pratyahara, the mind is brought back repeatedly to the Focal Point. By this constant practice of pratyahara, one is eventually able to concentrate for a short period on the Focal Point. This state of concentration is called dharana (steadiness of concentration or absorption). When absorption is maintained for longer and longer periods of time, then it is dhyana (absolute concentration). Then in this state of dhyana, one is able to grasp the Streams of spiritual Sounds (described in section 60) and finally achieves samadhi (Unity [Union, Absorption, Oneness in deep meditation]). Drshti Yoga (seeing the inner Light---the Yoga of Vision) will greatly facilitate pratyahara and dharana......
............The saints and true teachers are known to be impartial; their blessings fall like the rain. However, the rain, while falling on all, tends to collect in deep pools just as the grace of the saints while showering on all flows rapidly and collects in the deep pools of the aspirants who are devoted. It is not surprising that the aspirants through their devotion draw the grace of the master towards them. Aspirants who give great attention to the ways of the teacher are worthy of the gift of knowledge. Obviously, not the careless one, but the one who honors the gift and cares for the receiving bowl receives the gift of the grace of the teacher. Making oneself worthy is the secret of devotion to the master, and will greatly facilitate meditation explained in detail in section 59.
105. The means to attain the direct knowledge of the Supreme Sovereign
Swami Vyasanand Ji Maharaj
God (Summary of the Philosophy of Liberation).
Before learning the technique to attain the direct knowledge of the Supreme Sovereign, intellectual understanding of the essential nature of the Supreme Sovereign God and one’s own self is necessary. Through hearing and studying the discourses of spiritual teachers and contemplation, such knowledge can be acquired. Along with knowledge of the order of creation, the reason for not having the direct knowledge of both should be sought. Through intellectual understanding of the essential nature of the Supreme Sovereign, it is determined what needs to be attained. One should be able to discern whether it is the body which realizes the Supreme or the Self, Knower within the body.
Also, for this realization should the practices be of an external nature (outwardly devotional practices) or internal nature (Yoga of Vision and Yoga of Sound)? Having come to an understanding, these wanderings will be left behind. After gaining the intellectual knowledge of one’s Self, one will understand whether one is suited for attaining this Knowledge. Once, intellectual knowledge of the order of creation and the reasons for not having direct knowledge of God and one’s own Self are understood then the means will be brought to light. With this revelation one will be able to go be ultimately merging in Soundlessness or the Supreme Sovereign God. The internal practice of meditation ends here: the Supreme God is realized and the work is completed.
98. The practitioner should support himself in gainful employment, living on one’s own earnings. The aspirant is best content with a few things.
99. The aspirant should keep himself free of impulses such as lust, anger, greed, delusion, egotism, jealousy and fear. In his interest for spiritual progress, the practitioner should create pure mental habits: compassion, mercy, contentment, forgiveness and humbleness.
100. The following should be avoided because they cause unsteadiness of the mind: intake of intoxicants, including alcohol and various non-prescription drugs, and eating of meat and fish.
101. Through association of saints, the hearing of spiritual talks and study, wisdom can be acquired. Wisdom is essential in determining what is the right way to live your life. Without wisdom one can make poor decisions, which result in undesirable consequences.
...........In conclusion, as has been stated the microcosm and macrocosm are interconnected as they are completely permeated by the realms described above. Likewise, to go beyond all the realms is to go beyond all concealments. Further, in whatever realm the individual dwells, he dwells in that realm both in the microcosmic sense as well as the macrocosmic sense. In addition, if one ceases inhabiting one of the Realms, then he leaves behind both the microcosmic as well as the beyond the concealments of Causal Nature imposed on the creation and the Self and then will meet with the Supreme and experience direct knowledge of the Supreme Sovereign God. (The Philosophy of Liberation, By Maharishi Mehi)
Maharshi Mehi Paramhansa (young)
Mystic-Verses from the Padavali of Maharishi Mehi
Fully plunged into such a practice one becomes extremely cool and calm,
And forgets all about one's material body;
Paramhans says such introvert-aspirants remain completely unaware of morning, day and night.
And are effortless as if dead from outside,
Paramhans says, sounds like the beating of drums and roaring of clouds are heard in the cosmos,
Above Trikuti, are colourless, shapeless compartments, where there are only resounding sounds;
The true spiritual aspirant remains in Dhyana Yoga,
And with Yoga of Sound reaches the Highest Realm;
The Yoga of Sound causes such wonderful experiences;
On getting such a perceptive Guru, one knows how to do meditation upon inner Sound,
That Matchless Sound which never changes is the Quintessential One,
And that Quintessential Sound is finally changed into the Soundless One.
Saints describe it with words such as "Soundless", "Nameless" or "Wordless",
The Quintessential one along with surat [soul] at the final stage disappears,
The very stage of Soundlessness, Wordlessness or Namelessness is entirely different,
According to Mehi that stage is devoid of dualism,
Surat, merging with the Absolute, never returns to the physical world.
Maharshi Mehi Paramhansa Ji Maharaj
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Seven Stages of Mystic Ascension to Heaven According to Sant Mat
Sant Mat Radhasoami:
http://www.Facebook.com/SantMatRadhasoami
{"Repeat the Name of your Beloved, day and night, again and again.
With care in thought, word and deed, you will cross to the other shore." -- Dadu}
The Seven Stages of Mystic Ascension to Heaven Are:
1) Praise or Bhakti,
2) Prayer,
3) Manas japa (simran, praying without ceasing, repeating the name of God -- mantra, the first stage of meditation),
4) Manas dhyana (visualising the form of the Master, second stage of meditation),
5) Dristi sadhana (seeing Inner Light at the Third Eye Center, third stage of meditation),
6) Nada Sadhana (hearing the Inner Sounds --- Surat Shabd Yoga, fourth stage of meditation),
7) Reaching Kaivalya (Oneness with Soundlessness, the Nameless One, Formless Supreme Being, the Supreme State, The Ocean of Love -- the Goal)
Three Important Requirements: Praise, Prayer, Meditation
By Sant Sevi Ji Maharaj
The Harmony of All Religions
There are three important requirements to be met in the practice of a person who pursues devotion to the Divine and seeks to attain liberation. First is praise; second is prayer; and third is meditation. We know that when we are indebted to someone, we should express our gratitude and appreciation. God has blessed us bountifully.
Although we are unable to repay God for his generous blessings, we can acknowledge this goodness by chanting praises about the Divine Being. When we exalt God through song, we declare the glories of the Divine. In doing this, we remember the grandeur of God. As a natural result, our faith in God increases. Unless we acknowledge someone's qualities, it is impossible to be faithful to that person.
Tulsi Das Sahab says:
"Without having the knowledge of the nature of God it is impossible to know him. And without understanding his qualities we can not have love for God. Without love we cannot have devotion and true faith. This is as unattainable as the mixing of water and oil [which is impossible]."
Therefore, in order to have devotion and faith in God it is necessary to know the grandeur of God. Once the glory of God is known, our heart is attracted to God. This is a great way to keep your heart in devotion to God. Thus, it is through praise that we extol the divine powers of God and draw our mind toward God.
After singing praises to God we, then, pray. Prayer is supplication with deep humility. In general, people have desires and make demands. Only the great sages do not have wants.
Kabir Sahab said:
"My desires are gone, as are my worries. My mind is filled with detachment. One who does not want anything is the king of kings."
Sant Tulsi Das says:
"People desire sons, wealth and fame in this world. Why do people desire that which taints the mind?"
Why do we desire these things? Sant Tulsi Das considers this:
"[Fleeting] pleasures come to us without asking, whether we are in heaven, hell, house, or forest. Why then do people work so hard to get these pleasures while they ignore the advice of the sages [to seek permanent joy?]"
Why do we invest so much effort in acquiring these worldly pleasures which come to us naturally? And let us consider as well that there is always pain involved in acquiring worldly objects, and that an even greater exertion is required to sustain them. And further, when these very same insidious sensory pleasures leave us, the distress is even more intense. This is why, the wise do not ask for things which are transitory. The truth is that our desires should only be for something which would eliminate the desire [for worldly pleasures] itself. In reality, the only thing we should be asking God for is to achieve union with the divine. After realizing the Divine, there is nothing left to be achieved. This is the end of all wants.
Prayer and invocation are not merely concerned with the mindless muttering of requests, but rather, prayer should be the voice of our heart. God always listens to the one who calls out with a pure heart.
In the Yajur Veda (chapter 20) it is said:
"Oh God, even as we unknowingly commit various sins, day and night, please forgive these offenses and ill desires. You are omnipresent, like the pervasive wind."
We have previously spoken about prayer in both Christianity and Islam [chapters of, The Harmony of All Religions]. Christians refer to this practice as prayer, and Muslims call it ibadat. We see that in all theistic religions there is a great emphasis on prayer.
Communion or Meditation Practice
The practices of praise and prayer-glorification and invocation-are followed by communion through the practices of contemplation and meditation. The Sanskrit word upasana literally means sitting near God. The saints distinguish four categories of upasana. The four basic practices are:
1) Manas japa,
2) Manas dhyana,
3) Dristi sadhana and
4) Nada-nu-sandhana.
--- Sant Sevi Ji Maharaj, The Harmony of All Religions
Meditation Practice (Sadhana) According to Sant Mat Mysticism
There are several meditation practices in Sant Mat. There are several techniques described, the specific details of which are taught to students at the time of their deeksha (initiation) into the practice:
1) developing a daily routine, the habit of meditating at the same time or times each day;
2) proper posture with back straight so that one is truly focused at the Third Eye and remains alert and awake;
3) Manas Japa (Simran), a mantra repetition of a sacred word or words chanted mentally;
4) Manas Dhyan, the technique of mentally visualising a form of God or one's teacher;
5) Drshti Yoga (Yoga of inner Light), the technique of focusing upon an Infinitesimal Point. This Point will eventually blossom into inner Light or visions of Light. One gazes into the middle of the darkness or the Light one sees while in meditation. Think of the Infinitesimal Point as being like a laser pointer or cursor keeping one focused. One passes from scene to scene and vision to vision always looking toward the center;
6) Nada Sadhana (Yoga of inner Sound or Bhajan), the practice of inner spiritual hearing; and,
7) reaching the State of Kaivalya: Oneness with the Supreme Being in the Pure Conscious Realm. The ultimate goal is to merge into the upper level of Kaivalya known as the Ocean of Love and Compassion, the Ultimate Reality of God in the Nirguna or Formless State, also described with terms such as Radhaswami (Lord of the Soul), Anami (The Nameless One) and Anadi (The Soundless State beyond Light and Sound).
The poet-mystic Param Sant Tulsi Sahib describes the interior journey this way:
There is a Being who is Inaccessible (Agam), unfathomable (Alakh), and Nameless (Anami), and who has no locality, location, and is not confined to space.
Sant Tulsi Sahib also often uses the Sufi language of love or bhakti, describing this Timeless Spiritual State of Oneness as the Abode of the Beloved:
"On having found the teacher, I shall adopt his refuge, and I shall follow the path to my Beloved's Abode. The way to the Beloved lies within. My heart's desire, says Tulsi, is that my soul may meet the Beloved.
"The love-intoxicated soul is bubbling with joy. The darling of the Beloved has prepared and bedecked the bed and, imbued with the Beloved's bliss (ananda), has cast away all bondages. The soul prepared the Beloved's bed, and, lying there, enjoyed great bliss." (The Shabdavali of Param Sant Tulsi Sahib)
--- Sant Sevi Ji Maharaj,
The Harmony of All Religions
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
The 1-15-2010 Edition of Spiritual Awakening Radio is Archived and Available-On-Demand
Thursday, December 31, 2009
New Years Message from the Kabir Association
[Forwarded Message Below.]
To all family, friends, devotees and supporters
The year 2009 has now gone. It saw great turmoil still besieging the world.
May 2010 give the peacemakers of the world greater influence, and weaken the resolve of those who are violent, so that the world may progress towards peace, love, harmony and goodwill for all. May all the human and material resources being squandered for negative and destructive purposes, be redirected towards the betterment of humanity, especially those who are materially disadvantaged.
God has given us enough wisdom that, when properly used, will make our lives sublime. Let us all re-connect with our spiritual nature, make our karmas pure, and develop a life of gratitude, love, compassion, sharing and understanding. We all owe it to God and ourselves and family to make the world a better place.
Blessings to all.
J. Das
Kabir Association
Friday, December 25, 2009
Delightful Paradoxical Poem of Sant Radhasoami Sahib (Soami Ji Maharaj)
Radhasoami Reality:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Radhasoami-Reality
{Radhaswami Dayal ki Daya Radhaswami Sahai:"Grant Merciful Radhasoami Thy Grace and Protection"}
(Saw this poem posted at the [radhasoamisatsangi] group, which I'm a member of. It's very special. Had to forward it, plus I have included another translation of the same poem from the Sar Bachan Radhaosami Poetry [as four .jpg images, S.D. Maheshwari translation, Agra, India], which also provides commentary.)
Soami Ji Maharaj, from the Sar Bachan Radhasoami Poetry, Volume Two, Chapter 41 Shabad 21:
[radhasoamisatsangi]
Everything the Master has taught me is paradoxical.
He has taught me things unwisely.
Sleep and you shall built up treasure
Stay alert and you will loose your savings
Sit still and you will reach your destination
Walk fast and you will go no where
The earth rises above the sky
The sky sinks into underworld
Thieves are rewarded by the owner of the house
The honest are punished
Fire shivers because of cold
The rain withers the tree branches
The food gets pangs of hunger
Water is dying of thirst
The cot is laid on the sleeper
The awake are in deep sleep
The barren women are tired of giving birth
The fertile are now called barren
The earth is galloping on horse
Then riding the camel it blasts into the sky
Radhaswami by his grace
United the soul with Shabad
Delightful Paradoxical Poem of Sant Radhasoami Sahib (Soami Ji Maharaj)
Radhasoami Reality:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Radhasoami-Reality
{Radhaswami Dayal ki Daya Radhaswami Sahai:"Grant Merciful Radhasoami Thy Grace and Protection"}
(Saw this poem posted at the [radhasoamisatsangi] group, which I'm a member of. It's very special. Had to forward it, plus I have included another translation of the same poem from the Sar Bachan Radhaosami Poetry [as four .jpg images, S.D. Maheshwari translation, Agra, India], which also provides commentary.)
Soami Ji Maharaj, from the Sar Bachan Radhasoami Poetry, Volume Two, Chapter 41 Shabad 21:
[radhasoamisatsangi]
Everything the Master has taught me is paradoxical.
He has taught me things unwisely.
Sleep and you shall built up treasure
Stay alert and you will loose your savings
Sit still and you will reach your destination
Walk fast and you will go no where
The earth rises above the sky
The sky sinks into underworld
Thieves are rewarded by the owner of the house
The honest are punished
Fire shivers because of cold
The rain withers the tree branches
The food gets pangs of hunger
Water is dying of thirst
The cot is laid on the sleeper
The awake are in deep sleep
The barren women are tired of giving birth
The fertile are now called barren
The earth is galloping on horse
Then riding the camel it blasts into the sky
Radhaswami by his grace
United the soul with Shabad
Monday, December 21, 2009
 Namo arahantanam Namo siddhanam Nomo ayariyanam. Namo uvajjhayanam Namo loe savvashunam. Obeisance to the Worthy souls. Obeisance to the Liberated souls. Obeisance to the Preceptors (Spiritual Guides). Obeisance to the Spiritual Teachers. Obeisance to all the Saints in the world. (Lord Mahavira, Saman Suttam, Jainist Scripture) Jainisim and Surat Shabda Yoga (Yoga of Divine Sound)
By Swami Santsevi Ji Maharaj
The Harmony of All Religions,
Excerpted from the chapter on Jainism
Sant Mat Radhasoami Blog:
http://santmatradhasoami.blogspot.com In the Yoga of Sound (Surat Shabda Yoga), the gross material sound manifests initially, and thereafter the Essential Inner Divine Sound (Anahad), also know as OM or Pranava. It is the Cosmic Sound of the beginning.There are several references to the essential Cosmic Sound in the context of Lord Mahavira’s teachings:"Taking hold of this essential Anahat element (the Sound of OM) or Shivanam, the ascetics have gone across [beyond] this world of delusion and pain."In this way meditation upon the mantra and the Essential Sound are described. Also the technique of meditation on the OM Sound is elaborated:"O Ascetic! Meditate on the Cosmic Sound of OM because it is like rain for extinguishing the fire of suffering. And it is also like a lamp which illuminates the subtle essence of the sacred teachings. It is the governance of good deeds." (Jnanarnva, sarga: 38)Acharya Tulsi says:"From the infinitesimal point and the Divine Sound the subtlest waves (vibrations) reverberate."In his book, The Method of Using Preksha Dhyāna, Acharya Mahapragya writes:"Close both ears with your hands and listen to the Inner Sounds."The Jnanarnva (sarga 36) says:"The mendicant with purified mind should meditate on the sky with rainbow, lightning, and the sound of thunder, and full of clouds."Swami Jnananada says in the Pandita Puja:"In the Divine Sound of God (Bhagawan) all the mysteries are revealed."Shri Jinendravarni states:"What does one hear with these ears? It is a sweet Sound. . . Closing my eyes, as if I were united with God, I was away from this world. Only my Peace incarnate and dispassionate Lord (Mahavira) and I existed [ego and worldly concerns had vanished in the state of complete tranquility]." Labels: comparative religion, jainism, Mahavira, mysticism, sant mat, surat shabd yoga of inner sound
Sunday, December 20, 2009
 How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian-Vegan with Betska K-Burr - Spiritual Awakening Radio Announcement 12/18 How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian-Vegan with My Guest Betska K-Burr, Part One Click to Listen to Archived Show-On-Demand: http://view.liveindexer.com/ASXGenerator.aspx?mediaSKU=spAjKjEizi7ulzDKZkgA1g%3d%3d 12/25 How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian-Vegan with My Guest Betska K-Burr, PT 2 -- Part Two Will Air Christmas Day, December 25th, at: 1 PM Eastern Time, Noon Central, 11 AM Mountain, 10 AM Pacific Time, Which is 6 PM in the UK via: http://www.HealthyLife.net -- Positive Talk Radio. At the HealthyLifeNet page, click the blue "Listen Live" button for the streaming audio. Vegetarian Vegan Empowerment - PDF Files Related to These Shows 1) A Special Vegan Holiday Meal: http://spiritualawakeningradio.com/ASpecialVeganHolidayMeal.pdf 2) How to be a Healthy Vegetarian: http://spiritualawakeningradio.com/How_to_be_a_Healthy_Vegetarian.pdf 3) Vegetarian Vegan Recipe Book: http://spiritualawakeningradio.com/Vegetarian_Vegan_Recipe_Book_06Feb09.pdf All For the Love of Wisdom and Radio, James Bean Spiritual Awakening Radio Productions
 Non-Attachment, Even to One's Own Spiritual Path Non-attachment is liberating, and to the ears it might sound strange to say this perhaps but, one of the greatest gifts is to be non-attached even to one's "own" spiritual path in order to truly be a devotee of it. It's essentially like saying, give up Christianity in order to follow Christ. There is wisdom in remaining aloof from organizational politics, intrigue in the palace court and institutions, in order to be a sincere lover of the Beloved. Good to be on guard about overbearing mental impulses and attachments. No putting on airs -- in simplicity there is genuineness. When he first arrived in Hathras, Tulsi Sahib at night slept in the hollow of a banyan tree that was located about a mile out of town. In that spot he also spent much time in meditation. The Buddha was once asked: "To what extent can a person be a speaker of the Way?" He answered: "If a person teaches the Way in order to transcend the tyranny of material things and to teach how to transcend feelings, perceptions, impulses, and consciousness -- teaching non-attachment with regard to these -- then that person can be called a speaker of the Way. If he is himself trying to transcend the pull of the material world and to feel non-attachment toward it, then it is fitting to say he is living in accordance with the Way. If he is liberated by this transcendence and non-attachment, then you can say he has found Nirvana here and now. (Samyutta Nikaya) "Effortlessly" by John Astin, Youtube Music Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGLCprEizRE The truth is that happiness already exists right here, in all things appearing each thought and every feeling, that blow like the wind inside the vastness that's looking from no place and everywhere the vastness is loving each moment appearing and resolving effortlessly. Awareness shines, so effortlessly. No beginning, no end, unceasingly.
 On Spiritual Awakening Radio: All About the Gospel of Mary Magdalene At my Spiritual Awakening Radio Archive Page of Shows-On-Demand, Scroll Down and Click to Listen to the Program on the Gospel of Mary. Go to: http://www.healthylife.net/RadioShow/archiveSPA.htm The Mary Magdalene Branch of Mystical or Gnostic Christianity "Then Mary stood up, greeted them all, and said to her brethren, Do not weep and do not grieve nor be irresolute, for His grace will be entirely with you and will protect you....Mary answered and said, What is hidden from you I will proclaim to you." (Gospel of Mary Magdalene) A few copies of the Gospel of Mary have been found in Egypt. The preeminence of Mary Magdalene in this Gospel gives one excellent example of the leadership roles of women in early Christianity. Mary is described as an apostle, equal in every way to the twelve apostles and part of the inner circle of Jesus. But more than that, Mary was a kind of spiritual successor to Christ, taking over His role as the spiritual teacher of the other disciples. In every way, the text affirms that her leadership of the other disciples is based upon superior spiritual understanding. As a recipient of the secret teachings of the resurrected Christ, Mary, in her Gospel teaches the other disciples spiritual knowledge and gives detailed accounts of her visions and travels through the higher planes or heavens accompanied by the Radiant Form of her Master, the resurrected Christ. She relays to the other disciples the spiritual instructions, the words of Christ that she heard during these encounters, which probably took place during times of deep prayer - long periods of meditation. (from my article, Lost Books of the Bible) All for the Love of Wisdom and Radio, James Spiritual Awakening Radio Productions
 The Magnificence of Inner Sound Meditation (Nada Dhyan), By Swami Achyutanand Ji Maharaj Sant Mat Mysticism Blog: http://santmat.gaia.com/blog Below are translated excerpts from the book, "Vindu – Nada Dhyan", authored by the octogenarian Sant Revd. Swami Achyutanand Ji Maharaj, one of the eldest living disciples of Maharshi Mehi Paramhans, as well as an eminent scholar in the tradition of Santmat founded by Sant Tulsi Sahab of Hathras. Swami Ji has had the rare fortune of very prolonged close serving association of more than three decades with Maharshi Mehi who appointed him as the founder editor of the spiritual monthly "Shanti Sandesh" (Message of Peace) published by Maharshi Mehi Ashram, Kuppaghat, Bhagalpur, Bihar, India. Swami Achyutanand Ji even at this ripe age has dedicated his life to propagating the ideals of Santmat by widely travelling across the length and breadth of India, his mother country. He has a number of books to his credit like, "Vindu – Nada Dhyan", "Santmate Ki Baten", "Navadha Bhakti", "Bandaun Guru Pad Kanj", "Maharshi Mehi Ke Ashirwachan Aur Upadesh", "Sukti Sudha Sagar", etc. He also is the current editor of the quarterly "Adhyatma Prakash" (Light of Spirituality) published by Maharshi Santsewi Dhyan Yogashram, Agarpara, Kolkata, India. - Translated into English by Pravesh K. Singh (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sant_santati http://profiles.yahoo.com/praveshksingh) The Magnificence of Nada Dhyan (Inner Sound Meditation) It is essential to practice bindu-dhyan, Drishti Yoga -- the Yoga of Inner Light -- before doing Nada–Dhyan [Yoga of Inner Sound], because with continued practice of Drishti Yoga (meditation on the Inner Light), the ability to practice Nada meditation is truly gained. The mind gets completely controlled with Nada–dhyan. The mind does not merely become controlled, it actually dies down. Sant Charandas Ji has depicted it exquisitely: "jabase anahad ghora sunI | indri thakit galit mana hUA, AshA sakal bhunI||" [Since when I perceived the Divine Sound echoing within, all the organs became completely quiet, the mind got dissolved, and all longings ceased. ] How did this happen? Charandas Ji further elaborates, "ghUmat naina shithil bhayi kAyA, amal jo surat sanI | roma roma Ananda upaj kari, Alas sahaj bhanI ||" This means, on turning the Drishti (vision or gaze) inward (i.e. practicing Drishti Yoga), and on perceiving the Inner Sound, the body turned motionless, every pore of it got soaked in Divine bliss, and all lethargy, quite naturally, fled away. It is why Kabir Sahab taught, "shabda khoji mana basa karai, sahaja yoga hai yehi | satta shabda nija sAra hai, yaha to jhUThI dehi ||" [Subjugate the mind by finding the Inner Sound; this is the sahaja (natural) yoga.] | The True or Unstruck Word is our essence; this body of ours is otherwise illusory or impermanent. ||] Sant Charandas Ji further says, "karate anahad dhyAn ke, Brahma rUpa hoi jAya | Charandas yon kahata hai, bAdhA saba miT jAya ||" [By meditating on the Word, the practitioner becomes the same as God or Brahman. | Practicing this way, says Charandas Ji, all obstacles are removed. ||] In the Nadabind Upanishad it has been said about the Inner Sound (Nada) meditation that, "sarvachintAm samutsrijya sarvachesTA vivarjitah | nAdamevAnusandAdhyAnnAde chittam vilIyate || nAdAsaktam sadA chittam vishayam na hi kAnkshati |" That is, sidelining all worries and all efforts, one should mainly focus on the exploration of Nada; by doing thus the mind gets dissolved in the Nada, and the mind thus absorbed in the Nada does not crave anymore for the sensory objects. Nada itself is Brahma. We should absorb our mind in this very Nada. Shrimadadya Shankaracharya has stated in Yogataravali: "sadA shivoktAni sapAdalakshyalayAvadhAnAni vasanti loke | nAdAnusandhAna samAdhimekam manyAmahe mAnyatamam layAnAm || nAdAnusandhan namostu tubhyam tvam manmahe tattvapadam layAnAm | bhavatprAsAdAt pavanena sAkam vilIyate VishNupade mano me || sarva chintAm parityajya sAvadhAnena chetasA | nAda evAnusandheyo yoga sAmrAjyamichchhatA ||" [Lord Shiva, the propounder of the Yoga Shastra, has listed 1,25,000 ways of dissolution of mind. | Amongst these Nadanu-sandhana (meditation on the Inner Sound) is the best, as well as the easiest way. || I bow to thee, O Nada! You lift me on to the Highest Throne. | It is only with your grace that my prANa-vAyu (vital life-air) and my mind get dissolved in the Highest echelon of the Supreme Lord. || (Therefore,) renouncing all sorts of worries and with an alert and focussed mind...| Those who yearn for the union with the Highest should meditate on the Divine Sound within. ||] Balayogi Shri Bala Swami Ji Maharaj has beautifully expressed his views regarding Nada-dhyana, "This is such a means that enables us easily experience that supreme bliss that is our very own. Nada has a unique power. All of us know of the joy we experience while listening to melodious music in the outer world, but so unique and unparalleled is the bliss of this Inner Melody that the mind gets completely dissolved, and all its cravings get annihilated." `indriyANAm manonAtho manonAthastu mArutah | mArutasya layo nAthah sa layo nAdamAshritah ||' [Mind is the master of all the organs; prANavAyu (vital life-air) is the lord of the mind. | `Manolaya' (dissolution or absorption of mind) is the boss of prANavAyu, and this dissolution is accomplished with the help of Nada, the Inner Sound.||] Perseverance in the practice of Nadanu-sandhana leads to the dissolution of the mind. By sitting in a proper posture and consistently practicing looking within, with the eyes closed, one gets to listen to the Nada." (Kalyana Yoganka, p 325) Sant Kabir sings prolific praise of Shabda-sadhana or Nada-dhyana: "Kabir shabda sarIr mein, bin gun bAjai tAnt | bAhar bhItar rami rahA, tAtein chhoTI bhrAnti || shabda shabda bahu antarA, shabda sAra kA sIr | shabda shabda kA khojanA, shabda shabda kA pIr || shabda shabda bahu antarA, sAra shabda chita deya | jA shabdai sAhaba milai, soi shabda gahi leya || shabda shabda sab koi kahai, wo to shabda videha | jibhyA par Awai nahIn, nirakhi parakhi kari deh || shabda hamArA Adi ka, pala pala kariye yAda | anta falaigI mAnhi kI, bAhar kI sab bAda || yahi baDAi shabda kI, jaise chumbak bhAya | binA shabda nahin ubarai, ketA karai upAya || shabda binA sruti AndharI, kaho kahAn ko jAya | dvAra na pAvai shabda kA, firi firi bhaTakA khAya ||" [The Word, says Kabir Sahab, keeps ringing in the body | It is pervading within and without; this alone can destroy all confusion. || There are many Words, each different from the other, the Quintessential Word is the crown of all. | One Word is explored through the other, as one Word is the Guru of (or leads to) the other. || Words are much different from each other; focus yourself on to the Quintessential Word. | Grasp that Word that would take you to the Supreme Lord. || Though everyone talks of the Word, that Word is without form. | The tongue can't pronounce it; it has to be perceived within the body. || The Word has been there before we came into being, remember (meditate on it) constantly.| This Word alone that is found within will prevail in the end, rest all being of least significance. || The beauty of the Word is that it acts like a magnet. | One can't be liberated without the Word however hard one might try. || The soul is blind without the Word, knowing not which way to go. | Not finding the Word, the soul keeps wandering again and again. ||]
Ten 2009 Sant Mat Satsang Podcasts Available For Listening or Downloading at Blog Talk Radio
Sant Mat Mysticism Blog: http://santmat.gaia.com/blog
December Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: Hear readings from the following sources: a new book called "Petals of Love", by Professor Agam Prasad Mathur of Agra, on the history and spirituality of the classic Sants of India; verses of the Devotional Poetry of Saint Namdev from a text known as the "Hindi Padavali"; "The Harmony of All Religions", by Swami Sant Sevi Ji Maharaj, on the primary goals of this living school of spirituality from India known as Sant Mat; also a reading about the astral plane or region known as The Thousand Petalled Lotus (Sahas-dal-kanwal), from the book, "Enchanted Land". That reading includes a passage from the "Sar Bachan Poetry" of Soami Ji Maharaj, Volume One. On the ahimsa ethics of the Masters, there is a reading from the "Saakhi Granth" of Guru Kabir: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/12/19/december-sant-mat-satsang-podcast October Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: hear a Spiritual Discourse of Shri Swami Sant Bhagirath Baba. Shri Swami Sant Bhagirath Baba has authored four books that are full of spiritual insight, namely, "Maharshi Mehi ke Dincharya Updesh" (Life and Teachings of Maharshi Mehi) , "Santmat Tatva-Jnaan Bodhini" (Quintessence of Santmat), "Maharshi Mehi Leelamrit", and "Maharshi Mehi Chaitanya Chintan": GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/10/16/october-sant-mat-satsang-podcast September Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: Guru Kabir says, "The imaginations of the mind are just as innumerable as the innumerable waves of an ocean. If somehow this mind can become quiet by itself, attainment of the true Knowledge-like Diamond will become easily possible (everyone in this world is sad or restless because of lack of Knowledge. This true Knowledge can be attained only when the mind becomes quiet)." One of the effects of adhering to the ahimsa ethics of the Masters is a reduction in tension, in agitation of mind. The program begins with sixty seconds from an old recording of a Bhajan (chant) of Baba Somanath (disciple of Huzur Baba Sawan Singh), which is quite haunting and otherworldly. Then there is a reading from an ancient Hermetic-Gnostic text from Egypt titled, The Greatest Human Evil is Unacquaintance With God, followed by satsang readings from: The Bijak of Guru Kabir Volume Two (The Shabdas); The Bijak of Guru Kabir Volume One (The Ramainis); The Saakhi Granth of Guru Kabir; Songs of Kabir, by Rabindranath Tagore. The Bijak and Saakhi Granth of Kabir have always been considered primary texts of Sant Mat, and are genuine "Satsang Templates" providing a holistic approach to life on earth following the Path of the Masters. Other readings are from: The Philosophy of Liberation (Moksha Darshan) by Maharsihi Mehi Paramahansa Ji Maharaj; a Shabd in contemporary English from a recent translation of the Sar Bachan Radhasoami Poetry Volume Two, by Swami Ji Maharaj; a list of essential Sant Mat principals and techniques for a successful spiritual journey, a Bhajan (chant, hymn from India) by Guru Arjan Dev, and a meditative Bhajan of Sant Surdas titled, "Hai Govind." Additional unlicensed music comes courtesy of my musician friend Paul Alexandre John, who performs Indian classical ragas playing the Bansuri flute, giving me permission to make use of his music on the air: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/09/12/september-inner-light-and-sound-satsang-podcast August Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: Often a spiritual path coming from one cultural context and language is not fully understood by those from afar in another part of globe. Of course those with a heavy-handed "new age" perspective seeking to impose their own spin on the teachings of others, unnaturally mixing Sant Mat with countless other techniques, paths and practices instead of respecting the Path on it's own traditional terms, simply adds to the misunderstanding and confusion, and I would argue, is a form of Western colonial imperialism that thinks it knows best, when in fact, it does not! Genuine Sant Mat (The Path of the Masters) in it's traditional Indian context has much wisdom to offer about life in-the-body, and not only about out-of-body travel during meditation. The Masters do have much guidance to share about those 22 hours each day that take place between meditation sits! A life limited to action alone is missing literally many other dimensions, yet a life of only contemplation would not fully be alive either. The Eastern Vision is to live a life of both contemplation and action, to be open to all states, physical, dream state, unconscious, and spiritual states. Hear Bhajans of Kabir and Jayadeva. Readings are from the following sources: Sar Bachan Radhasoami Prose, by Swami Ji Maharaj; Sar Bachan Radhasoami Poetry (the Forgotten or "Lost Gnostic Gospel" of Sant Mat), by Swami Ji Maharaj, both volumes translated by S.D. Maheshwari, Agra; An Ahimsa Prayer of Ramesvarananda Sahab found in the book, Praises to a Formless God, by David Lorenzen; The Dawn of the Third Millennium by Kirpal Singh; Prem Patra Radhasoami, by Huzur Maharaj Rai Saligram, Agra; The Philosophy of Liberation, by Maharshi Mehi; The Five Precepts; and from the chapter on Right-Speech from an ethical manual of the Sants known as the Saakhi Granth of Guru Kabir, translated into English by Kunwar Anil Kumar, in, 1008 Kabir Vani, Manoj Publications, New Delhi, India: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/08/16/the-august-sant-mat-satsang-podcast-by-james-bean July Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: Readings from The Adi Granth and from the Dadu Panch Vani: verses from Sant Dadu Dayal; the article: "Do Simran -- Do the Meditation", by Swami Sant Harinandan Baba, translated from Hindi into English by Pravesh Kumar Singh; The Ethical Foundation of Sant Mat: The Five Precepts and Meditation Requirements; a reading from a quintessential manual of Sant Mat teachings and practice known as, "The Philosophy of Liberation", by Sant Maharshi Mehi on: the inner spiritual technology, steps, stages, and stairway of heaven known as "The Eight Limbs of Yoga": YAMA: satya (truthfulness), ahimsa (non-violence in thought, word, and deed), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacarya (continence), and aparigraha (control of greed -- non-possessiveness). NIYAMA also consists of five practices: sauca (internal and external purity), santosha (contentment), tapas (penance), svadhyaya (study of scriptures and wisdom of the Sants), and isvara pranidhana (meditation on GOD); ASANA: correct posture in meditation; PRANAYAMA or breath control, which is, for the most part, not emphasized in contemporary Sant Mat Meditation; PRATYAHARA: withdrawal or sensory transcendence, as well as it means to bring back, as in refocusing oneself again whenever one notices that one has lost focus during their meditation sit; DHARANA: an increment of time characterized as quality meditation -- good concentration; DHYANA: one-pointed attention, stillness, also meaning true meditation or contemplation - not to be confused with the term "Dhyan" (visualizing or seeing the form of a Master, though of course that too is part of, or a stage of, traditional Sant Mat Meditation); SAMADHI: the bliss of being completely absorbed in meditation, unity, union with God, oneness. There are also readings on Amrit Veela/Brahmamuhurta/The Hour of God, and a list of some of the Sounds of Surat Shabd Yoga: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/07/06/july-sant-mat-satsang-podcast June Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: A Bhajan (hymn) of Mirabai, a reading from, The Last Discourse of Soami Ji Maharaj of Agra about Huzur Maharaj (Rai Salig Ram), a thirty-minute reading from, Radhasoami Faith - A Historical Study, authored by Agam Prasad Mathur (Dada Ji) of Agra, India, featuring excerpts from Chapter Five: a most excellent summary of the Spiritual Teachings and Goals of Sant Mat Mysticism, the Path of the Masters, on: The Creation (Planes, Grand Divisions or Levels), The Supreme Being, Origin of Evil - The Concept of Kal Niranjan (Gnostic Demiurge or Negative Power/Lord of the Matrix of Illusion), The Soul (Surat, Spirit Entity), Salvation (Moksha) of the soul, The Four Essentials or "Sats" of Sant Mat: Sat Shabd/Sat Naam (True Eternal Sound Current or Positive Power of God), Satguru (True Eternal Teacher), Sat Anurag (True Eternal Love), and Satsang (True Eternal Association). After that a short reading titled, The Principles of Santmat: on the nature of God, the soul, our condition as a jiva-soul at the level of the physical plane, the practices of Sant Mat Meditation, the ethical Precepts of Ahimsa, and the requirements in order to attain liberation (Moksha). The program concludes with chant from the Morning Prayer (Jap Ji) of Guru Nanak: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/06/03/june-sant-mat-satsang-podcast May Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: Readings from the Dasam Granth, a Bhajan of Guru Kabir, The Four Meditation Practices of Sant Mat, Encyclopaedia of Saints of India, Volume 19: Radhasoami - on the practice of Dhyan - contemplation of the form of the Master - also about Inner Light and the Radiant Form of the Master (Inner Guide), Two Reflections on the Spiritual Journey: 1) 'There is No Vatican of the Spirit', and 2) 'Do You Remember Who You Were Before Time Began?' and, Readings from the Sant Dariya Website about the Life and Teachings of Sant Dariya Sahib - also mentioning that Sant Dariya appointed two spiritual successors/Sat Gurus to carry on after him, and that this Dariya Branch of Sant Mat is still alive, still exists in India, and has "two hundred Sants" according to the webmaster of the Sant Dariya website: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/04/30/may-sant-mat-radio-satsang-podcast March Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: Know Thyself: A wide variety of readings from the writings of the Sant tradition on knowing one's Self and God, the recitation of several bhajans (mystical hymns, devotional poems) from recent or classic Sants including from the Adi Granth, Dasam Granth, Huzur Maharaj (Rai Saligram); also the theme of knowing yourself found in, The Bijak of Kabir, Saakhi Granth of Kabir, The Stranger of Galilee by Russell Perkins (who has some great passages from Kirpal Singh), also a couple of selections from the sayings of Lord Mahavira (Jainism) and the Gospel of Thomas (Gnostic); a Bhakti Approach to Simran (Radhasoami Naam) according to the Founder of the Radhasoami Faith. Satsang is an Eastern term used by Indian spiritual paths including Sant Mat for a meeting or spiritual gathering either facilitated by a living Master (Sant Sat Guru), representative or group leader affiliated with such a living teacher. The facilitator reads from the writings of various Masters, perhaps making some comments. The focus is always the words and the wisdom of the Masters about the essential truths of the spiritual journey, knowing God, Bhakti (love and devotion), right conduct and ahimsa (non-violence in thought, word and deed), effective meditation practice: Soul Travel: Surat Shabd Yoga: Inner Light and Sound Meditation, the Mysteries of the Kingdom of God or Inner Space: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/03/28/march-sant-mat-radio-satsang February Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: Reviewing Several Steps and Stages of Inner Light and Sound Meditation: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/02/21/Sant-Mat-Meditation-Practice January Sant Mat Satsang Podcast: A Satsang Talk by Swami Sant Sevi Ji Maharaj (Hindi with English translation provided), given at the Maharshi Mehi Ashram, Kuppaghat, Bhagalpur, Bihar: GO TO: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/santmatfellowship/2009/01/12/Sant-Mat-Satsang-Part-Two-a-Satsang-Talk-
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Article and Podcast: Three Ways We Can Honor the Soul ---- Learn New Things --- Ascend and Discover A New World! By James Bean, Copyright November 2009, All Rights Reserved
http://www.SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com
Spiritual Awakening Radio 11-6-09: My Talk, "Three Ways We Can Honor the Soul" -- CLICK TO LISTEN to Archived Show Available Online 24/7:
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There are unexplored "rooms" within the "interior castle" of the human body, the true temple of the Spirit. What ultimately is to be uncovered along this mystic-journey of inner soul travel exploration is our true identity, which has been given various names: the True Self, Higher Self, New Nature, New Adam, "Christ in you -- your hope of glory", Atman, Supreme Soul, Drop from the Divine Ocean, the Pearl, Spark of the Light, Nuri Sarup (Light-Body or Radiant Form), Spirit Entity, or Surat (the attention-faculty of the soul). Eventually the observer will observe it's own Self.
It occurs to me that the definition of "soul" for most is really atman or Spirit combined with the astral and mental subtle bodies or coverings. Those are generally lumped together and called "the soul." That's understandable of course, as it represents "us" as separate individual or individualized "drops" of the Divine Ocean.
There are Realities that we do not see, many things we do not hear, and a vast treasure-trove of wisdom we are not paying attention to. The outer world via the five senses comes pouring in -- we are outwardly gazing all the time and dominated by impressions of mind and matter. We have accepted our own reflections (bodies) as the only reality. Thus the need for meditation, and not just any form of meditation, but an initiation into the Mysteries of the Kingdom of Inner Space, so that we may see and hear spiritually, know and explore those realms we inhabit: the astral plane, the causal and mental regions, and ultimately beyond mind and matter, to the purely spiritual region, until there is Oneness. Kirpal Singh's axiom is: "God plus mind [manas] is man, and man minus mind [manas] is God."
Swami Bhagirath Baba, a Master from Bihar, India, said recently: "Moving down from the middle of the two eyes is going towards ignorance, and moving up from the middle of two eyes is going towards Knowledge." "The beginning of the Turiyaa state has been said to be the Aajnaa-chakra [Third Eye Center] (the Guru instructs about the Point in between the two eyes where the vision of both unites), and the destination of this is in Kaivalya--the State of Oneness--Pure Consciousness." Swami Bhagirath Baba describes as ignorance or spiritual poverty a situation of only being aware of the world below the Third Eye Center, the material world of the fives senses but cut off from awareness of the reality that exists above and beyond the Third Eye Center. For Bhagirath Baba and other mystics, above the Third Eye is a kind of tunnel that ultimately quite literally leads to God. Those who have had NDE's or Near Death Experiences have described this same tunnel. The observer passes through certain visions, sights and sounds, perhaps stars, moons, and suns, inner regions or heavens, then bright Light, from Light to Sound, and from Sound to Soundlessness and Formlessness. I even know of several helpful "charts of the heavens", illustrating the various levels, or regions of Inner Space, this Kingdom of the Heavens that are within. Email me and I will gladly send some Shabd Yoga as well as Gnostic charts to you!
Three Ways We Can Honor the Soul
Kabir once said, "There is no other God like compassion on living beings and worship of the Supreme Self." (The Bijak of Guru Kabir, published by Shri Kabir Ashram, Jamnagar, India) There are three major ways (no doubt many more) we can honor the soul, the divine within ourselves and others.
1) A Sociable God: Where Two or Three Gather in My Name, I Am in Their Midst
The first way we can honor or acknowledge the soul is through spiritual community, by connecting with other souls. The Eastern term for this is "Satsangha" or "Satsang" (Associating with the Eternal Truth or God), referring to people getting together to meditate as a group, discuss spiritual principals of truth, sing hymns (bhajans, kirtans, bhajans), and focus on the Wisdom of one's spiritual teacher, path, mystic order, or tradition. It's also easy to recognize parallels to this in various world religions and paths, East and West: synagogue, church, mass, message board, chat room, book discussion group, class, tele-seminar, friends meditating together, meeting together, including over the phone, or via the web. These all, to varying degrees, could be viewed as containing elements of Satsang.
As we develop our meditation practice and ethical foundation, one of the fruits of this is the bhakta principal of seeing God in everyone. Eastern cultures are quite advanced in this area. I really like the salutation used by an Eastern religion known as the Kabir Panth, the Path of Guru Kabir: "Bandagi Saheb!" Bandagi is from the Sanskrit 'vandana' - a salutation, and saheb is a word for master. Bandagi saheb thus means: "I offer salutation or greeting to the master dwelling in you". Bandagi Saheb also reminds me of the greeting "Namaste'", which means: "The God in me bows to the God in you." Also, in the Radhasoami tradition of India, satsangis greet each other with "Radhaswami", meaning, Lord of the Soul. The principals of this art of seeing God in others is quite eloquently articulated in a holy book of the East known as, The Narada Bhakti Sutras, which I highly recommend. One can find translations of it online, as well as can order it via any good bookstore or library.
2) The Supreme Soul Assuming Control
The second way we can honor souls is by adhering to ahimsa values. Ahimsa is an Eastern term for the Golden Rule meaning, cultivating non-violence in one's thoughts, words, and deeds, to, more and more with each passing day, become truly peaceful in all aspects of life. This means being inspired, not by vague platitudes about inner and outer peace, but by specific ethical principals to be guided by in every aspect of life and living. As of late, rich sources of inspiration for me have been the Bijak of Guru Kabir, the Saakhi Granth of Guru Kabir, and countless Jainist Sutras. The religion from India founded by Lord Mahavira known as Jainism has a vast amount of wisdom to offer about ahimsa ethics, the values of the Supreme Soul.
3) Become Your Real Self In Meditation
The third way we can directly honor the soul is by BEING the soul in meditation. When we first start practicing meditation, we may believe that we HAVE a soul. If our meditation becomes deep and successful however, over time we will realize that we ARE soul. It is the soul that is inhabiting this body and mind. We don't merely have a soul hidden away someplace -- WE ARE THAT.
Not All Saints Are Dead
When it comes to spirituality, there are two basic approaches that most have. The most common one is finding a book on spirituality. Many begin the learning process this way. Of course, rather than the pursuit of knowledge leading to mystical experience, it could be the other way around for some. One may begin the spiritual search as a result of something acting as a catalyst. People may begin seeking answers as a result of having an experience that opens them up to new possibilities. In any case, most with a spiritual curiosity may get ideas from certain books, perhaps a book from a popular author with a best seller. This could be described as an eclectic do-it-yourself spirituality. One is not necessarily tethered to any specific spiritual path, tradition or direction, just some of "this" and some of "that." Most of us begin this way. There is however another approach. Some go from being an eclectic spiritual seeker perpetually in seek-mode to someone who has "found" a certain path or contemporary spiritual movement they resonate with, that feeds their soul like none other thus far in their experience. One may join a living school of spirituality, a mystic order or lineage. Perhaps this lineage or path has been in existence for many centuries. One may find that the wisdom of mystical paths such as Kabbalah, Sufism or Sant Mat is not solely based on ancient scriptures, scrolls, or holy parchments from the past, with a focus of looking back to an earlier time of prophets and saints, like we usually find in the mainstream exoteric religions. Rather -- what's especially noteworthy about mystic paths is, they may have Living Buddhas, Living Christs, Living Rumis, Living Hildegards, Living Kabirs, a Living Master or Meister Eckhart, a Living One: a living mystic or saint with us now, here on Terra firma in the Twenty First Century.
Living Students Have Living Teachers
For it is the ability to truly listen that gives birth to an awareness of a message, and an appreciation of a messenger. An Infinite God could never have a limited number of inspired words, or be forever bound by bookbinders. If there is no inspiration now, how could there ever have been any inspiration in days gone by? There is also no missing element or trace mineral, once present in the water supply during the middle ages or earlier times but now gone, that once caused the appearance of prophets and saints, and accounts for their absence now. What was true then is true now. The same need that brought great souls into the world during past centuries is still with us. My experience and belief is that the age of prophets, apostles, masters or saints is still with us, that there is a Living Gnosis Now. There are living Masters in the world today. The reality and not the illusion of having a guru, begins here, with this openness to the possibility of Living Ones Now. ////////
Perseverance Pays - Never Ever Give Up or Discontinue Meditation. You Will Definitely Meet With Success. DhIraj dharay to kAraj saray. Jaldi karay to kAraj bigare" [Patience and Perseverance pays, while haste makes waste.] Sant Mat Mysticism Blog: http://santmat.gaia.com/blog
Below was translated by Pravesh K. Singh, Chandrapur, Maharashtra, India, and is excerpted from the last satsang prawachan (discourse) given by Maharshi Santsevi Paramhans jee Mahaaraaj, just one day before he departed this world. This public discourse was given by him on Sunday, 3rd of June, 2007 in the Satsang Hall of Maharshi Mehi Ashram, Kuppaghat, Bhagalpur, Bihar, India on the occasion of the weekly afternoon satsang. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sant_santati http://profiles.yahoo.com/praveshksingh http://groups.zorpia.com/group/santmatFraternity Jagjivan Sahab has said: "KAraj dhIre hot hai, kAhe hot adhIr. Samay pAy taruwar falay, ketak sIncho nIr." [Any work takes its own due time, why do you forsake patience? Trees come to fruition only at the right time, however hard you may try and water them!] Santsevi Ji: We sit in meditation, fail to concentrate, and get upset or fed up. A pessimistic thinking sets in as to whether or not "I would be able to do it." No, we should not get nervous, or anxious. Nor should we nurture any doubts in our minds. We must go on trying, with persistence and perseverance. Jagjivan Sahab: "SAdho sumiran bhajan karo. Man manh duvidhA Anahu nAhi, sahajahi dhyAn dharo. dhIraj dhari sanshay nahi rAkhahu, nAm bharose raho. JagjIvan satguru ko bheto, bhavjal pAr karo." [O noble souls! Practice mediation. Have no doubts in your minds, and do meditation in a natural, unforced, simple state of mind. Have patience - give no room to any sort of apprehensions, and have full faith in the Divine Sound. For this, meet a true Guru, says Jagjivan, and learning the right art/method of meditation, swim across the ocean of existence or the cycle of births and deaths.] Swami Santsevi Ji: Whatever little is possible, do meditation everyday. But never ever give up or discontinue meditation. You will definitely meet with success. Gurudev (Maharshi Mehi Paramhans ji Maharaj) used to say, "If it so happens that you don't get one of three meals any day, not much harm is done; not as much harm or loss as is incurred if you skip a single-time of meditation on any given day." If the situation is such that a meal has to be skipped in a day, let it be so, no big deal; but never ever skip meditation. All of you please keep on practicing meditation regularly, everyday. Gurudev will bestow you with success!
A Conversation with Sunny Mueller of Loving Hut on Compassion, Climate Change, and the Vegan Diet, on Spiritual Awakening Radio, Parts 1 and 2
Friday, November 6, 2009
Mystic Poetry and Teachings of Sant Dariya Sahib of Bihar, A Great Master in the Lineage of Inner Light and Sound Mysticism "Those who develop interest in simran are really fortunate and are making a good use of their human birth." (Domain Singh of the Sant Dariya Mission Website) The Sant Mat Mysticism Blog: http://santmat.gaia.com/blog Below the mystic verses of Sant Dariya is a discourse by Domain Singh of the Sant Dariya Mission of Bihar, on the practice of Simran (Manas Jap): repeating God's Name or Holy Names with love and devotion, a bhakti practice of remembering God, done during available moments throughout the day and night, as well as simran is a technique used during meditation practice.  Before We Get to the Poetry and Spirituality, Some Sant Mat History: Background on Sant Dariya Sahib (1674--1780) Sant Dariya was born in 1674 in the Rohtas District of Bihar, India. He was brought up and remained at that place for most of his life. Dariya was apparently given his name by the family Guru. Dariya's birth was celebrated with great festivity. After the baby was one month old, a holy man visited his place and the mother brought the baby before him. This holy man carefully looked at the baby from head to foot, asked the mother to take very good care of the baby and named him Dariya, to be so recognized later. Dariya never looked upon him as a human being, and always referred to him as the Lord or Sat Purush. Sant Dariya got enlightenment at the age of twenty years. He was initiated into Inner Light and Sound Meditation, Shabd Naam, by the same Satguru mentioned above, that had been a major influence on Dariya's life. In 1674, Dariya's Guru would have BEEN, or at least would have been contemporary WITH, one of the early Dharamdasi Kabir Panth Gurus, the "People of the Anurag Sagar", that is to say, a distinct branch of Sant Mat related to Kabir that used a text called, The Anurag Sagar, along with, The Bijak, Saakhi Granth, and other writings attributed to Guru Kabir. Another signature teaching that early on was unique to the Dharamdasi group was the view that Sant Dharam Das was the primary gurmukh successor of Kabir. It is recorded that Dariya's Satguru, mentioned above, eventually appointed Dariya Sahib to be his spiritual successor. Dariya became one of the great Saints of the Sant tradition of India, a towering figure occupying some of that space in history between the time of Kabir and that of Sant Tulsi Sahib of Hathras. In fact, for awhile, Dariya and Tulsi Sahib were alive at the same time. Dariya passed on when Tulsi was around seventeen years of age. Dariya Sahib appointed several Saints to be his spiritual successors: Fakkar Das, Basti Das, Sant Tika Das, and, Sant Guna Das, also contemporaries with Tulsi Sahib, who likely spent some time in Bihar. Bihar was, and remains, home-base of the Satsang of Sant Dariya Sahib. "He [Tulsi Sahib] has freely used words of Braj, Avadhi, Rajasthani (Marwari), Gujrati, Punjabi and Maithili, which leads one to conclude that, like many other Saints, he must have traveled widely in V.P., Rajasthan, Gujrat, Punjab and Bihar." (Tulsi Sahib, Saint of Hathras, J.R. Puri, and V.K. Sethi, RS Books) Tulsi Sahib said he was initiated by a living Satguru, but knowledge of the name of that particular Guru is lost, or at least not necessarily clear to us these many years later. The name of that Guru is not recorded in the writings that have survived. Or is it, and we simply aren't noticing? During those days, Sant Dariya has the distinction of being the only living or recently departed Sant Mat Master Tulsi mentions in his writings! Furthermore, Tulsi Sahib, in a hymn of praise, a shabd, included Dariya on his list of the greatest Saints in the history of India. Says Tulsi: "Nanak, Dadu, Dariya Saheb, Mira Bai, Soor Das, Kabir and Nabbaji have all reached the Mystic Sky and have given out the secrets. Their souls have got across and merged there." My suspicion is that the unknown Guru of Tulsi Sahib was either Dariya Sahib, or one of Dariya's successors in Bihar. Thus, contemporary Inner Light and Sound Meditation or Sant Mat, the Path of the Masters as it is known, associated with Sant Tulsi Sahib and Soami Ji Maharaj or Sant Radhasoami Sahib, is directly connected to the Dharam Das branch of the Path of Kabir by way of Dariya's Guru and Dariya Sahib of Bihar. 
Masters such as Dariya Sahib and Tulsi Sahib represented mystical hardcore reformist voices somewhat critical of the overall direction the older Sant Panths were headed in. Sufis, the followers of Guru Gobind Singh (Ratnagar Rao?) or Sikhism, the Kabir Chaura or other branches of Kabir Panth (other than the Dharamdasis), and the Dadu Panth of Rajasthan, do not recognize Dharam Das as the gurumukh successor of Kabir, and they do not use or recognize a key sacred text important to Tulsi Sahib known as the Anurag Sagar. Those Panths or Paths do not seem to be the the primary influences upon Tulsi Sahib. For the Dharamdasi Kabir Panth group and the Dariya Sahib Panth however, the Anurag Sagar is a major scripture, central to their teachings, history, and view of the cosmos during this age of Kali Yuga. Therefore, these writings and teachings unique to the Dharamdasi and Dariya branches of Sant Mat, being shared by Tulsi Sahib are significant clues. Tulsi's views about Sant Mat Spirituality, Kabir, Dharam Das, Panch Naam, the Anurag Sagar, a critical stance against Kabir Panth as it had become during his day, etc..., would most likely suggest an association with the Dariya Satsang of Bihar. In my view, the teachings of Tulsi Sahib most resemble those of Dariya Sahib, to the degree that it's safe to say that, based on a close examination of the internal evidence provided in the writings of Tulsi Sahib: theology, vocabulary, style, imagery, quoted materials including the Anurag Sagar, stance towards the Kabir Panth and other Sant Panths, that the primary influence upon Tulsi was Dariya Sahib and the Dariya School of Sant Mat. Back to Sant Dariya Sahib. "In one of his books, Dariya claimed himself to be Saint Kabir in his previous birth." (Dr. Dharmendra Brahmachari Shastri, who published a research paper on the Sant for his Doctor of Philosophy thesis called Sant Dariya Kabir of Bihar) Certainly, many believe the great sage Sant Dariya Sahib was the reincarnation of Guru Kabir. In any case, it can be said that the teachings of Sant Dariya Sahib and his Satguru successors do indeed represent a continued living mystic-expression of this Path of Guru Kabir in this current Kali Yuga Age. Says Sant Dariya Sahib: "Sat Purush is the living Lord And His own son serves as the ladder. That ladder is continued through me, says Dariya. Fakkar Das, Basti Das, and Guna Das, Are the ladders proceeding from me. Whomsoever they appoint as their successors Would also be known as ladders. Thus will my line of succession continue..... "Those souls who remain in obedience to these successors, Shall cross the Ocean of the world. How long will this line of succession continue? Kindly relate it to us in your own words, asks Fakkar Das. Listen mindfully, 0 Fakkar Das, I explain this to you, says Dariya: As long as the discipline of the Sound Current is preserved unadulterated, The line of succession will truly continue. But when it is mixed with outer rituals and display of external garbs, My Sound Current will part company. My Divine essence will depart, And the souls will go into the mouth of Kal. I shall then come to this world, And shall proclaim the teaching of the Sound Current again. Proclaiming the teaching, I shall found the line of succession. And emancipating the souls, I shall take them to my Abode. For aeons I have been coming, And imparting the teaching of the true Sound Current." Above is based on 1) information found at the Sant Dariya Mission website; 2) the one book in English featuring excerpts from the many writings of Dariya Sahib, by K.N. Upadhyaya; and, 3) my own articles reflecting about Sant Mat history, the Kabir line of Masters, Dharam Das, Dharam Das's son and spiritual successor: Churamani Nam, Dariya's Guru, Dariya Sahib, and Tulsi Sahib. Note: Domain Singh of the Sant Dariya Mission website really likes Upadhyaya's book on Sant Dariya, thinks it's a wonderful and scholarly publication. Spirituality: Mystic-Verses/Shabds of Sant Dariya Sahib Let the practitioner be brave like a lion, and let him not forget the holy repetition even for a moment! Let him be on alert with his drawn-out bow and arrow! The thief (Kal) can never come near such a one. (Sahasrani, M., p. 37) Keep on repeating the holy names with tenacity, and remove the impurities by repeated rubbings. With the impurities removed, one becomes pure, and wisdom dawns upon such a one in full. Sahasrani. M., p. 61) Sumiru Sat Nam niju kam hai jahi te Practice the repetition of the true Names which alone is of value, abandon the taste for worldly enjoyment, and attain thereby the inner bliss. Have kindness in your heart, look with compassion, give up all family rites and worldly concern. Being detached, brush aside all worldly delusions, And take refuge under the Satguru's holy feet, which is the kingdom of eternal bliss. Disregarding sufferings and afflictions, cut off worldly snares, and be firmly absorbed in contemplation which alone is of value. Thereby the inner lotus will blossom, nectar will flow, and the inner sky will resound with melody hearing which, Kal will flee away. There the dazzling Light will shine and the true Sound will resound, which will destroy heavy sins, and place a divine canopy over your head. (Shabd 318, M,.pp. 103-104, D.G. Vol. I. p. 86) Sumirahu satpad pran adhar Carry on the repetition of the true names, taking it to be your very life-breath. Obtain thereby the true Sound, and go across the ocean of the world. When a disciple receives the holy names from the Guru, the disciple is sure to attain the Unchangeable, Eternal and Immortal Abode. The soul attains union with the Creator, and never again comes to this world. That Abode is different from the three worlds. There resides the Primeval Lord along with a multitude of pure souls. A disciple who takes the Guru's word to his heart, is destined to go to the True Abode, and is never to fall into hell. Having obtained the Authentic Passport (Naam), he certainly goes to the Hidden Realm, and never comes back here again, says Dariya. (Shabd 9I, M., p.40, D.G. Vol. I, p. 64) Light and Sound arise from the Primal Shabd. Let one make one's attention one-pointed, and let the Surat catch the Sound Current with rapt attention! This is the only way to rise to the Primal Shabd. One should fix one's attention at that point where the sun and the moon meet (at the eye-center). One will find a resounding melody emanating from the Primal Shabd. One should merge oneself into that melody. There the Thousand-petalled Lotus blossoms, although the Primal Source is above the Akah Lotus. There arises a unique fragrance from the Thousand-petalled Lotus, enjoying which the souls are thrilled with great delight. When one becomes a devotee of the Satguru, then alone love and devotion are manifested through his service. The further journey is extremely subtle. It can be crossed only by merging the Surat in the Sound Current. Experiencing the refulgent Light and incomparable Sound (of higher Regions) one is filled with bliss. Reaching the Inaccessible (Agam) Region, one finds an exceedingly dazzling Light. It is hard for the mind to stand that Light. Stepping on the ladder of the Satguru, one tastes there the fruit of Immortality. (Dariya Sagar, chaupai 165-171 & chhand 5, D.G. Vol II, pp. 17-18) When one sees with one's inner wisdom, An eternal Light comes to one's sight. One is absorbed in the Unstruck Divine Melody, And the Lord is seen in the refulgence of Light. (Dariya Sagar, chaupai 376-377, D.G. Vol. II, p. 38) The Unstruck Divine Music is played every moment. And seeing the Divine Form the soul is absorbed within. Only he who finds a wise Guru, can attain the true Abode of Sat Nam. (Dariya Sagar, chaupai 382-383, D.G. Vol II, p. 39) (Sant Dariya Sahib -- Saint of Bihar, RS Books) A Satsang Discourse: Sumiran for God-Realization, An Article by Domain Singh of the Sant Dariya Mission, the Sangat Founded by Sant Dariya Sahib, a Sant Mat Community in Bihar, INDIA http://theholysound.com/sant-dariya-saheb-bihar/Sumiran-for-God-Realisation.html There are many kinds of Sadhana [spiritual practices] to realise God. The question is which is the simplest and most suitable for the average person. Many have realised God by repeating the name of the Lord. The Guru gives the Name at the time of initiation. Lord Shiva achieved immortality by repeating the holy name of the Lord. Savage Balmiki became Brahma-like by repeating the holy name. The power of the holy name is beyond description. In the Ramayana, Saint Tulsi Das has said that the holy name of the Lord is more powerful than the Lord Himself. In the Gita, Lord Krishna has said that amongst all the Yagyas, Jap Yagya is the greatest. The Name of the Lord has the capacity to reveal God. As the practice progresses, the mind becomes subtler and subtler. Ultimately the mind ceases and merges into the Transcendental. In this method of meditation, one sits down, closes the eyes, maintains an easy and comfortable posture, and without moving the lips or tongue repeats the name given by the Guru. As the process progresses, the breathing becomes calm and even. One's mind becomes quiescent. When the mind becomes quiescent, God speaks. If we listen to the inner voice, we find solutions to all our problems and frustrations. By constant repetition of the Nam [Name] one can conquer lust and passion. To face the ups and downs which is natural in human life, there is no remedy better than ceaseless remembrance of God [simran or sumiran: mentally repeating God's Name: manas jap, as a way to remember God]. Saints of the Nirguna School of Spirituality [devotees or bhaktas of the Formless God] right from the time of Kabir have praised the power of sumiran. Gandhi jee was a great proponent of Nam-Bhakti. Sant Dariya has described the importance of Nam- Bhakti in the following verses: "Nam pratap yug yug chali aaye, sakal sant gun mahima gaye" jyo tarani jal jat taraee, Nam sumiru jal bohit payee" Dariya Sahib in the above verses says that the importance of Nam has been recognized for aeons. Saints have praised its glory. A boat floats on the water and whosoever has to cross a river rides a boat. To sail through the ocean of life which is so difficult, one needs a boat of sumiran to cross the ocean of life. God [at the highest level] is Formless and very few get an opportunity to see him in a form (body [or in the form of Satguru]: Sagun rup birla jan pave). The holy name of the Lord which is Nirguna (beyond attributes) easily leads to the realization of the Lord. According to Sant Dariya, akshar Nam (alphabetical name) leads to nihakshar (Lord who is beyond kshar and akshar). Here ksar and akshar denote perishable and non-perishable and the Lord is beyond these dualities, whom Dariya Sahib calls nihakshar. Nam is a great medicine to cure all kinds of ills in this samsara [this world of changes]. Sumiran of the holy name subdues the mind and leads to concentration. The mind at ease and peace cures many of physical and mental diseases. It improves the immune system. To sum up, the benefits of sumiran is immense for this life and life beyond. Those who develop interest in sumiran are really fortunate and are making a good use of their human birth. ////////
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Light and Sound on the Path for October 25th, 2009 Sant Mat Mysticism Blog: http://santmat.gaia.com/blog Enjoy the wisdom, also the audio and video links below -- there are many! Sant Mat Radio October Sant Mat Satsang PODcast at Blog Talk Radio: Go To: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/SantMatFellowship Spiritual Awakening Radio: Dr. Jagessar Das: An Introduction to the Path of Kabir: Part 1 - New Archived Show Available Online: CLICK TO LISTEN: http://view.liveindexer.com/ASXGenerator.aspx?mediaSKU=a9TYEjm7uw4ELitWZEDV%2fQ%3d%3d Spiritual Awakening Radio: Dr. Jagessar Das: An Introduction to the Path of Kabir: Part 2 - New Archived Show Available Online: CLICK TO LISTEN: http://view.liveindexer.com/ASXGenerator.aspx?mediaSKU=M2oxoMdDfYxJPuZEuC42og== Spiritual Awakening Radio: Dr. Jagessar Das: An Introduction to the Path of Kabir: Part 3 - New Archived Show Available Online: CLICK TO LISTEN: http://view.liveindexer.com/ASXGenerator.aspx?mediaSKU=6sTnckN4tFo%2fDPvCY5MRSA%3d%3d Guru Kabir Kabir: All entities in the Universe are the Manifestations of the Same Soul: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sant_santati/message/522 Beautiful Short YouTube Video -- Words of Kabir: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V27TJr2eSQ "Meditation will remove all your burdens; meditation upon Ram's [God's] name will become your support." -- Guru Kabir Kabir says: "If you merge your life in the Ocean of Life, you will find your life in the Supreme Land of Bliss." Guru Kabir: "O my brother, surrender everything and recite the Name." Here Kabir is saying that through the technique of repeating/reciting God's Name every day we will reach the ultimate state. We have to catch the root first, and the root of devotion is simran, the repetition of the sacred words imparted by the Master. If we remember God this way during the day, when we sit down to meditate, it's much easier to reach the Light at the Third Eye Center. My Sweet Lord -- George Harrison -- YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Abo_U09wmE8 "There is no other God like compassion on living beings and worship of the Supreme Self." -- Kabir, in the Bijak, published by Shri Kabir Ashram, Jamnagar, India The Soul, A Drop from the Divine Ocean Supreme Self or Atman is a Hindu term for God. I'm also attracted to the Jainist term "Supreme Soul". It occurs to me that the definition of "soul" for most is really atman or Spirit combined with the astral and mental subtle bodies/coverings. Those are generally lumped together and called "the soul." That's understandable of course, as it represents "us" as separate individual or individualized "drops" of the Divine Ocean. Kirpal Singh's axiom is: "God plus mind [manas] is man, and man minus mind [manas] is God." "Each spirit entity [soul] is a pure spark or atom of divine consciousness and is of the same essence as God. Yet though these sparks are ontologically united with the Divine, they are existentially separated from it. This separation needs to be undone, for as a mystic once expressed it, 'our hearts are ever restless until they find their rest.'" -- Stephan Hoeller, Gnosticism: New Light on the Ancient Tradition This passage from Gnostic Bishop Stephan Hoeller above is very much in harmony with the Path of the Masters, which teaches that the soul is already is Sat Lok, the True Eternal Timeless Spiritual Realm, but doesn't realize it. The outer world via the five senses comes pouring in -- we are outwardly gazing all the time and dominated by mind and matter. We have accepted our own reflections (bodies) as the only reality. Thus the need for meditation, and not just any form of meditation, but an initiation into the Mysteries of the Kingdom of God or Inner Space within, that we might know, see and hear spiritually, and explore those realms we inhabit that are beyond mind and matter. Sage Sanathumara in the Chandogya Upanishad said, "The Self is one, though it appears to be many. Those who meditate upon the Self and realize the Self go beyond decay and death, beyond separateness and sorrow." "Know the Self as Lord of the chariot, the body as the chariot itself, the discriminating intellect as the charioteer, and the mind as the reins." (Katha Upanishad) The term Bandagi Saheb in Kabir Panth: Bandagi is from the Sanskrit 'vandana' - a salutation, and saheb is master. Bandagi saheb thus means: "I offer salutation or greeting to the master dwelling in you". Bandagi Saheb! Bandagi Saheb reminded me of the word "Namaste'", which means: "The God in me bows to the God in you." Rumi: Travel Not the Road Alone A friend is needed; travel not the road alone, Take not thy own way through this desert! Whoso travels this road alone Only does so by aid of the might of holy men. The hand of the Director is not weaker than theirs; His hand is none other than the grasp of Allah! If absent saints can confer such protection, Doubtless present saints are more powerful than absent. If such food be bestowed on the absent, What dainties may not the guest who is present expect? -- RUMI Wishbone Ash: You Rescue Me Among the stars on this side of heaven I lay broken and destroyed. When people on the earth have cut you down The sky's the only place to hide. And as I floated in the moonlit night You arrived to take me home. I kissed your hand and I came back to life And all the wrong became all right. In all of my dreams You rescue me It always seems you rescue me I was wandering down endless roads A fallen angel in the cold You appeared before me like a vision To whisper love I used to know So easily you gave to me secret promises Like only magic words can flow In all of my dreams You rescue me It always seems you rescue me Wishbone Ash: You Rescue Me -- YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yrsYxSrkGfE Rumi Poetry: The Masnavi, Book One, By Rumi -- PDF: http://elearn.mtsac.edu/dlane/masnavi5.pdf Rumi and Other Sufi Books Online -- Great Sufi Website: http://www.thesufi.com Sant Darshan Singh: tujhey kya khabar: ghulam ali -- YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quUC13ajEMs Sant Dariya Sahib of Bihar Am a fan of Sant Dariya Sahib of Bihar, a great Satguru who lived in Bihar a couple centuries back. Sant Dariya Kabir, the Son of Sat Purush and Adi-Guru who incarnates from time to time to restart the spiritual path of Inner Light and Sound on the Earth during this present Kali Yuga age, starting a lineage of Masters, so that over the generations souls may be initiated. He said: "As long as the discipline of the Sound Current is preserved unadulterated, the line of succession will continue. But when it is mixed with outer rituals and external garbs, My Sound Current will part company...I shall come to this world, and shall again proclaim the teaching of the Sound Current. Proclaiming the teaching, I shall again found the line of succession, and emancipating the souls, I shall take them to my Abode. For aeons I have been coming, and emparting the teaching of the true Sound Current." Sant Dariya Sahib of Bihar: "Be not intimidated by any fear. Hold fast to the Naam (the Positive Power of inner Light and Sound of God) which is always there to help." "Reflect thoughtfully and hold fast to my technique of the Sound Current. Then having realized the True Sound, cross the Ocean of this World (Samsara)." "So long as love is not obtained, fondness for the Beloved cannot arise. When nectar-like true love takes abode within oneself, only then can one contact the loving Sound." (Sant Dariya Sahib of Bihar) George Harrison on the Soul: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RrkQOMsSYaE What Is Life - George Harrison: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSwYfG--QGY The Beatles - Inner Light -- YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhHm-5lKkZ0 Lord Mahavira, Divali, and the Inner Sound in Jainism While Divali is popularly known as the "festival of lights", the most significant spiritual meaning is "the awareness of the inner light". (Wikipedia) Until the last moments of his life Lord Mahavira inspired many to seek world peace through the attainment of inner peace, and he encouraged people to realize their divine nature. For 30 years he traveled throughout India to spread his message. At the age of 72, on the day of Divali in the town of Pawa Puri, Mahavira ended his worldly journey. In the state of deep meditation he attained nirvana. (Swami Sant Sevi Ji) The Inner Sound in Jainism: Acharya Tulsi says: "From the infinitesimal point and the divine sound the subtlest waves (vibrations) reverberate." In his book, The Method of Using Preksha Dhyāna, Acharya, Mahapragya writes: "Close both ears with your hands and listen to the inner sounds." Swami Jnananada says in the Pandita Puja: "In the divine sound of God (Bhagawan) all the mysteries are revealed." Shri Jinendravarni states: "What does one hear with these ears? It is a sweet sound. . . Closing my eyes, as if I were united with God, I was away from this world. Only my Peace incarnate and dispassionate Lord (Mahavira) and I existed [ego and worldly concerns had vanished in the state of complete tranquility]." (The Harmony of All Religions, Swami Sant Sevi Ji Maharaj) The book, Harmony of All Religions, by Swami Sant Sevi Ji, on the inner Light and Sound teachings in all the major world religions. The Jainism chapter - PDF: http://spiritualawakeningradio.com/Harmony7-ChapterTwo.pdf Video of Swami Sant Sevi Ji Giving a Satsang Talk, Part One: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZY-II8TTt5Q The WORD Moodly Blues: "The Word" This garden universe vibrates complete. Some we get a sound so sweet. Vibrations reach on up to become light, And then thru gamma, out of sight. Between the eyes and ears there lay, The sounds of colour and the light of a sigh. And to hear the sun, what a thing to believe. But its all around if we could but perceive. To know ultra-violet, infra-red and x-rays, Beauty to find in so many ways. Two notes of the chord, thats our fluoroscope. But to reach the chord is our lifes hope. And to name the chord is important to some. So they give a word, and the word is om. Moodly Blues: "Om" The rain is on the roof Hurry high butterfly As clouds roll past my head I know why the skys all cry OM, OM, Heaven, OM The Earth turns slowly round Far away the distant Sound Is with us everyday Can you hear what it say ...OM, OM, Heaven, OM The rain is on the roof Hurry high butterfly As clouds roll past my head I know why the skys all cry OM, OM, Heaven, OM YouTube: Moody Blues: The Word, and, OM: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfkUfarjVO8 "The Sound Current: Sweeter and sweeter its heavenly strains vibrate through every living being, great or small, from world to world, and from universe to universe. Its life-giving melodies may not be consciously heard by those who are not trained to catch them, but there is not one living being in all creation which does not derive its life from this Current". (Julian Johnson, Path of the Masters) Nada Dhyana (Yoga of Sound) - Swami Achyutanand Ji Maharaj: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sant_santati/message/521 Baba Sawan Singh Maharaj Ji - part 1 -- YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKzXu1z5TTs Leaving the Matrix--A variety of negative thought-beliefs prevent souls from success in meditation: http://www.spiritualawakeningradio.com/leavematrix.html An amazing YouTube video: The Morning Prayer (Jap Ji) of Guru Nanak, in English, with Chant in Gurmuki and text in both English and Gurmuki: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpPJUjebWo8 A Living Mystic Path Swami Sant Bhagirath Baba: "Moving down from the middle of the two eyes is going towards ignorance, and moving up from the middle of two eyes is going towards Knowledge." "The beginning of the Turiyaa state has been said be the Aajnaa-chakra (the Guru instructs about the Point in between the two eyes where the vision of both unites), and the destination of this is in Kaivalya-the State of Oneness-Pure Consciousness." Sant Mat means: "The Way of the Saints" or "Path of the Masters." Inner Light and Sound Meditation works best when practiced with a spirit of Love and Devotion for God, the Beloved Lord of Love. Divine Currents of Love, Light, and Sound to All. Sant Mat: Awakening to the Light: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHvJaoylVmU Seeking a spiritual path, meetings (satsangs) in your area, Initiation into Inner Light and Sound Meditation? What city are you in or near? Reply back and I can send you contact info. In the Love, Light and Sound of the Beloved, James http://www.SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com/santmat
Kabir Poetry, Wisdom, and Mysticism, Part Two: October 16th Spiritual Awakening Radio - New Archived Show Available Online: More of My Conversation with Dr. Jagessar Das of the Kabir Association CLICK TO LISTEN: http://view.liveindexer.com/ASXGenerator.aspx?mediaSKU=M2oxoMdDfYxJPuZEuC42og== Sat Guru Kabir Sahib Part Two in the Kabir Series: A program of Kabir poetry from the Bijak, Robert Bly's Kabir Book, Songs of Kabir, by Rabindranath Tagore, and more conversation with Dr. Das, translator of the Bijak of Guru Kabir and other writings published by the Kabir Association. Dr. Jagessar Das is the President of the Kabir Association of Canada, affiliated with the Dharamdasi Branch of Kabir Panth (The Path of Kabir): http://www.Kabir.ca The Dharamdasis are the "People of the Anurag Sagar". That is to say, the Anurag Sagar: Kabir's Ocean of Love, was a sacred text composed, published, has been read in satsangs, and contemplated for centuries by: the Dharamdasis, the Branch of Kabir Panth founded by Sant Dharamdas Sahib. Anurag Sagar (The Ocean of Love) online: http://www.spiritualawakeningradio.com/anurag.html All for the Love of Wisdom and Radio, James Producer and Host Spiritual Awakening Radio Productions
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