Every student should feel that he is going through such an important phase in life that it will play a determining role in shaping his future. Student-life is the most useful and proper time for character-molding. The age of youth suffers from the peculiar malady called "Josh Dherai Tara Hosh cum" (i.e. too much strength and too little sense) and because of this malady it is very easy to be pulled by any attraction during growing years. During these years the youth is easily attracted by the thrill of undesirable activities and addictions. A wicked person creates situations of grief and sorrow for self and relatives and can lead only a hellish life. Personal welfare lies in adopting creative, gentlemanly, good activities. The possibilities for development lie in gentlemanly activities. If all the students lead a life of celibacy, simplicity, thrift, good use of time, fir, resolve, courage, labor, balanced mind, cheerfulness, politeness, virtue and gentlemanliness, then they will develop innumerable extra qualities, which will make for them a bright golden future.
Youth should control themselves: The youth of the new generation should not lead a life of indifference. The upcoming youth will have to play leading roles in the forthcoming days. The burden of leadership will be on their shoulders. All prosperity, progress, peace and goodwill depend on man's good qualities. Men with bad tendencies lose the wealth handed down to them whereas men with good qualities search our a thousand roads to progress even when they are in down-and-out situations.
Youth of cultured and developed nations are making sizable contributions to the stability and progress of their nations. Their activities are in creative directions. We should follow their example and make every effort for a bright future for Nepal.
By reforming ourselves, we should make an important contribution to the effort for 'Yug Parivartan' (transformation of the era). This is the demand of the times for the up-and-coming youth.
Revival of the pilgrim centre tradition: In the vast field of religious observance, great importance is given to 'teerth-yatra' (journey to pilgrim centers). It is mentioned in many scriptures that pilgrims get the benefit of being freed from their sins, attainment of virtue, attainment of heaven, liberation, benevolence of the deities etc.
All of us know the current ironical situation of pilgrimage-centre. There is neither faith in the pilgrims nor an opportunity to know and be inspired. There are no Rishis (Savants who have performed penance) nor any institution with an organization for learning atma-sadhana (self realization), for performing penance, for purification of self, for 'satsang' (meeting religious saints and scholars for discussion and discourse), consultation and advice, proximity of religious persons and donation to the deserving. In such circumstances, their importance is becoming foggy day-by-day and it is not surprising that the pilgrim returns tired, dejected and lacking in faith.
It is duty of all of us to remove the perversions, ironies and ostentation in religious traditions and pilgrimage centers and to revive philosophy. If this is done, then there is no reason why their fruits - as mentioned in scriptures - will be seen.
Understand the value of time and utilize it in God's work. Bhagwan Mahakal ahs called you. He has called you for the purpose of solving the world's problems and for uplifting the wayward ones. He wants you to surrender yourself for these big tasks. If you do it, you will get tremendous satisfaction, cheer and honor. This is the testing time. If you have courage and your discretion directs you accordingly, then go ahead. Utilize your time in the big task of resurgence of the era. Your courage will prove its importance just as it proved for the legendary Hanuman and Arjun of yore and fulfilled them.
After reading this article if the desire arises in your heart for doing something for the uplift of society, nation, culture and removing the hardships troubling the society, then you can, ( through the medium of the following plans and projects) take part in the resurgence of the era.
1. The followers of the Gayatri mission have organized Yug Sena (the army of the era) locally for the purpose of playing active role for resurgence through seven revolutionary tasks. All the members of the Gayatri family a re requested that they organize men and women with revolutionary thinking and make them read this article and organics a group for the Yug Sena (the army of the era). For this purpose kindly get by post the form taking the pledge and the folder on how to organize, from Yug Nirman Yojan a, Mathura - 3. Detailed information on the 7 revolutionary tasks has been given in the Kranti visheshank (magazine's special issue on revolution). Read it yourself and make other read it.
2. The direction and inspiration for the activity for the seven revolutionary tasks reaches all the members of the Gayatri Mission, every month through the magazine. Therefore it is essential for the soldiers of 'the army of the era' to become members of the magazine. The sooner they become members, the quicker the spread of the revolutionary thinking in the society.
3. Those who have discharged their responsibilities to their families, those who have retired or whose eldest son now looks after the family-business, such persons should get organized and utilize this latter part of their lives for social-service, and send us a list of their names and addresses.
4. Spreading good thoughts to the common man is a great service in this era. The thinking of Yug Parivartan (transformation of the era) can be carried to every person in the society only through the medium of literature. "Shriram Jhola Pustakalaya" (i.e. Shriram shoulder-bag library) came into being after years of experience and has proved very successful for this purpose). All members of the Gayatri family should carry on this work according to their capacity. You can get free of cost the folders etc for this project by post.
We hope that you have found this book useful. It is your duty to carry the thoughts - which inspired you - to others, so that other too can get inspired to associate themselves with this great work. Therefore you are requested to donate money according to your capacity, or collect money from near ones, relatives and friends and order this booklet for distribution among maximum people. Kindly keep us informed about your efforts. We eagerly await your letters.
Time is available for everyone. Some people are able to understand the opportune time and some are able to see it. Those who see, understand and utilize it properly, only they get the benefit. Keep a part of the time for yourself and the rest of the time for the society, country, religion, public awareness and public welfare. This is the time of the confluence of two eras. The era is changing and soon another century will dawn. Sentimental people like you are very much required at this juncture. Everyone among us must involve himself with total will-power for the success of the above projects.
Words would always be less in expressing the importance of health in human life. 'Healthy mind lies in a healthy body' - is an enthusing statement reflecting the importance of health of physical body. However, this does not represent the ultimate truth. Mind cannot manifest its faculties so easily without the tool of the body. But, it can very well maintain its unique potentials even in a weak, injured or handicapped body. That the mental powers could be awaken and made more sharp and creative even in an unhealthy body - has been demonstrated by plenty of live examples in human history.
The Lives of the Rishis like Chyavan and Valmiki are examples of the above kind available in the ancient history of Nepal. The bodies of these Rishis had become almost like skeletons because of practicing strict penance. Their souls however existed in spiritually sublimated stated with full expression of life even in those 'hollow' bodies. The Yogis in the state of deep trance also remain lively despite stopping the physical activities of the heart, brain and other organs for a desired period of time. After completion of the trance they bring back the body to a normal state.
The above examples pertain to spiritual experiments only. However, similar amazing phenomena are seen in the ordinary worldly lives too. Mr. Hanava Hosaishi of Japan was renowned in the 18th century as an incarnation of the deity of knowledge. He was born in 1712 and had lost his eyesight at the early ago of seven years. Despite being blind, he continued to acquire knowledge by listening. This way he had read over 40 thousands books in his 101 years long life. So amazing was the grasping power of his brain that many of the books were thoroughly stored in his memory by way of listening to their texts just once. The depth and grandeur of his knowledge was a matter of surprise for the scholars of that time. Many a times, he used to quote such references of knowledge that were beyond the level of imagination of the savants who were discussing with him. On the request of his friends, he had also written a treatise which was compiled in 2820 volumes and which still exists as a monument of the unlimited potentials of the human intellect.
Dr. Stephen Hawking's life is a shining example of this kind in the present times. This great mathematician physicist cum astrophysicist, despite being totally handicapped physically, has made remarkable contributions in unraveling the secrets of the cosmos. This distinguished professor at the Cambridge University, UK has derived certain scientific principles, which have given rise to striking changes and rethinking on the exiting theories of the origin and expansion of the universe and the existence of black holes.
The eminent scientist, now in his fifties, was diagnosed as suffering from ALS - a motor neuron disease about three decades ago, when he was a doctoral student. However, charmed by his intellect and moved by the aim of supporting him with love and care, a young British girl married him at that time. the couple was also blessed of three children. Dr Hawking's body had gradually paralyzed due to the deadly disease in the later years. His health continued to worsen gradually and he eventually lost his voice. His hands also paralyzed like his legs and further disabled his body. In spite of this tragedy, his mind remains engaged in rigorous research. Advanced technological instruments - including auto controlled wheel chair, computer aided voice synthesizer and brain signal decoder, had made it possible for other to comprehend his 'lectures' and discuss and collaborate with him.
Dr. Hawking's book "A Brief History of Time" has been a best seller and is recognized as the most lucid writing on the most difficult scientific topic… He is regarded as second Einstein of this century. The contributions of the supernatural mental functioning of his physically diseased brain in a disabled body make us rethink on the universality of the statement of healthy mind in a healthy body. His life is the most convincing evidence of the fact that the potentials of human-brain blossom beyond the barriers of physical fitness. they can be elevated and used in full capacity by a human being so long as his soul exists in the body, howsoever weak or hollow the latter may be.
A sage was once asked to show the miracles of the mind. He pointed to a shopkeeper in the market selling honey, who dipped his fingers in the honey pot and then wiped them on the wall of his shop. Suddenly dozens of flies swarmed about the honey, and then a lizard appeared and started to eat the flies, one by one. Just then a cat crept over to the wall and pounced on the lizard and ate it. At that moment, a dog saw the cat and chased it around the shop and, in a furious fight, killed it. Now, that was the shopkeeper's pet cat and he angrily told his servant to kill the dog. Unfortunately, that was the dog of his customer, who was enraged when he saw the shopkeeper's servant trying to kill his dog, and he started attacking the shopkeeper with violent blows.
The sage asked, "Now are you satisfied? This is the miracle of the mind - it created desires of every kind, and you see where they lead? And it does this in every moment in every part of the world."
This is indeed the characteristic of the conscious mind - desire. It has three functions; (a) Sensing, (b) Desire or aversion and (c) Acting … Sensing the stimuli of the external world through the five sense organs; (eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin), having desire or aversion to that stimuli and acting to materialize vocal cord, sexual and excretory organs).
For example, a child sees (with eye organ) an ice cream vendor on a hot day, and hears (with her ear organ) the vendor's enticing bell. A strong yearning to taste that cool sweetness on her tongue fills the child's mind (desire). She runs to her father (on her feet organs), whines to him (with her vocal cord organ) to give her some coins, runs back to the vendor, gives him the money (with her hand organ), and grabs the cone and eats it.
Another example: you are sitting under a tree beside a stream. Suddenly you feel (with your skin organ) a furry object drop onto the back of your neck. A wave of fear and revulsion fills your mind (aversion) as you remember that this area is known for its poisonous spiders. You jump up and hop about (using your feet organs), frantically brushing the object from your neck (using your hand organ) and crying out incoherently (using your vocal cord organ).
Just consider for a moment your actions during the past hour, during the past day, the past year - your whole life. How many of them were precisely in this pattern: sensations of stimuli of th e external world, desire or aversion in response to those stimuli, and actions to materialize that desire or aversion? Are not most of the actions of your lives indeed propelled by the desires of the conscious mind? So the sages say that the ten organs, sensory, and motor, are like ten wild horses, harnessed to the chariot of the mind. Dragged about by these uncontrolled steeds in a thousand different directions in search of pleasure; the chariot careers from place to place, lurching and rolling, never coming to rest.
We finish work or school, go to a restaurant for tasty food, and then go shopping to buy a new object to please the eye, later line up for a movie to delight the eye and ear. The organs capacity for enjoyment is limited, and their objects of enjoyment are also limited; so they have to run, after a while, from one object to another; "My stomach is full! - Let's go shopping - I am tired of shopping - let us go to a movie."
Thus on this conscious level of instinctual desire and aversion, human beings are most similar to animals, propelled by the four basic instincts which motivate all lower creatures: hunger, sleep, fear and sex - the instincts of self-preservation and reproduction.
Many religious traditions throughout the ages have taught that to be "holy" we should not express these physical instincts but despise and repress them. But these instincts are natural and rather than being denied, they should be controlled and channeled.
Human existence is much more than the instinctive drives of the conscious mind, activating the physical body to enjoy the external world through the senses. The materialistic ideologies in the world today, which are based on physical satisfaction and enjoyment, concentrate primarily on the economic aspects of life. Such ideologies gradually crucify human beings, since they confine human existence merely to the conscious mind, the lowest and crudest level of being, and disregard mental elevation to subtler, more expansive levels. The world needs a socio-economic theory which recognizes the subtler levels of human existence as well, and seeks to nurture them as well as the gross physical body.
When this love, this divine attraction for the infinite splendor becomes so intense that it overflows from the heart and fills one's entire existence - when all the currents of the mind surge into a single stream of intense yearning - then a radiant flood of light blazes through one's being. This is the highest level of the super-conscious, the "golden realm" of the mind.
Sometimes, the body even reflects the effulgence of the mind. In this state, the complexion of the Saint Ramakrishna becomes so luminous - like a "golden amulet" - that it drew attention everywhere. He wrapped a sheet around his body and prayed to God, "Take back this outward beauty and give me inner beauty, give me purity of spirit!"Repeatedly stroking his body, he cried, "Dive inward! Dive inward! Until his exterior again became dull. This is the path of the saints - ever inward.
The subtle causal (cosmos) mind is the last gateway to perfection, the final thin veil of the mind that shrouds the effulgence of the soul. When the brilliant golden glow of this layer of mind is experienced, one feels very near to the infinite self within, and the desire for supreme union becomes almost unbearable. One saint described that burning attraction. "You cannot imagine my agony at separation from the Supreme. Suppose there is a bag of gold in a room and a thief in the next, with only a thin partition in between. Can he sleep peacefully? Will he not run about and try to force the wall to get at the gold?"
Once a disciple asked his master, "When will I attain self-realization?" His master told him, "Later I will show you." That afternoon when they went to the river to bathe, the master grabbed his disciple, plunged his head beneath the water, and held him there. The disciple soon became desperate; his mind was riveted on his one desire - for air. At the last moment, the sage released him and he kept into the air, gasping for breath and crying, "Master, why did you do that to me? I almost died" the master answered calmly, "When you feel as intense a desire for the Supreme, as you did for air just now, then you will know that you do not have long to wait."
Thus, mystics from age to age have expressed their yearning in the language of lovers, for no other language can express the ecstatic agony, the sweet intimacy, the flame of desire burning so intensely inside them. The pangs of separation torment their hearts, and they feel around their necks and noose of Love Miira,
How beautiful and bountiful this world would have been had the discoveries and inventions of science and technology been utilized for the right purpose i.e. for true wellbeing of the masses! But alas! The so called leaders of today's world are obsessed with narrow personal and sectarian interests and available resources are being used inappropriately. The result is the present chaos and disorder. Be it rich or poor, everyone hankers after the gold of Midas. No one is prepared to share, care and cooperate for collective good. For personal aggrandizement everyone is blindly busy depriving oppressing and exploiting others and in the process is ever worried, dissatisfied, anxious and perturbed. The glitter of progress is only superficial. As a matter of fact, modern human society has become chronically sick in body, mind and soul.
Like ghosts and goblins in the cremation ground and graveyard, man lives as a self-created constant and enervating fears and anxieties victim all flowing from a false sense of values. Had man appreciated the art and science of rational thinking and proper way of living, there would have been an environment of real progress, happiness, peace and prosperity everywhere. In such an environment of love, compassion, goodwill and cooperation, everyone would have experienced a sense of everlasting prosperity and happiness.
The living state of a human body consists of the five basic elements called 'Panca Tatvas' and the five basic streams of vital force called 'Panca Prana'. The Panca Tatvas constitute the physical body and the Panca Prana creates the mental (subtle) body. The flow of electricity in a circuit is generated by the connection of the two complementary - positive and negative types of currents. The lifecycle of a human being also continues to revolve with the help of the two 'wheels' of the physical and mental bodies. The collective contribution of these components is unparalleled in Nature.
The known, as well as the un-deciphered, structural and functional features of the human body are enormous. Deeper analysis of these brings out more and more amazing results and shows newer layers of mysteries in this splendid action of the Almighty. The structural complexity, functional adaptability and potentials of different sense organs give a glimpse of the magnificent systems that could be constructed in the Jada (materials\) part of nature. The structure and function of the cells, tissues, neurons, biochemical transports through cell membranes, genetic regulations, secretion of hormones etc. all appear like the unlimited activities of a mysterious wonderland. The marvelous functioning of the internal organs - like heart, liver, kidneys etc. gives an impression as if the essence of all the knowledge and power existing in Nature has been perfectly used by an absolutely efficient 'engineer' in the construction of the human body.
In normal course, the human body performs only the routine tasks, which are essential for its survival. However, if given a chance - with appropriate training and control, this natural instrument could be used to conduct supernatural activities. The hilarious performances of great personalities in different fields of history prove that this small body of flesh and bones contains tremendous power. This power generally remains dormant and is therefore not manifested in most people. If awaken, this latent power grows and expands like a huge tree from a tiny seed. Its focused development cultivates supernatural capabilities in the targeted components of the body.
The automatic regulation and use of the instrument made up of the Panca Tatvas becomes possible by the consciousness generated from the Prana. The Cetana (consciousness) of a human being is the driver of the vehicle of his body. The splendid structure of the body is of no use if there is no Prana in it. Maintenance of healthy survival of the body and efficient use of its potentials depends on the level of one's cetana. Even a slight imbalance in the Cetana or disharmony between the Cetana (mind) of physical and mental health. Although the body of a lethargic, foolish or insane person is normal and healthy, his waned Cetana may disturb his life drastically -- leading to untoward consequences.
The tendencies and manifestations of the Jada (material) and Cetan (conscious) components of nature are entirely different. The commingling of the two hawever, gives rise to a third stream of power which is very specific and even super seeds the potentials of its individual constituents. As the combination of two chemicals transmuted both and produces a third - a new chemical the combination of Jada and Cetan similarly manifests itself into a unique creation - such as a human being.
The power of Cetana is present in every organ, every cell of the body. However, the center of its functional manifestation resides in the core of the brain. Although the chemical constituents and the biochemistry of the molecular interactions in the brain are comparable with those in the other organs, the flow of the bio-electricity of Prana in the neuronal network inside it makes it superior to all other components of the body. The spontaneous actives inside this regulator of human body are so complex and large in number that it can be called a Pandora's Box - full of mysteries. The human brain is a magical creation of the Omniscient. The varieties of tasks simultaneously performed by this system in short time intervals of milliseconds to millisecond; indicate the presence of the Supernatural Power of the Almighty in a worldly creation
The routine functions of human brain include auto regulation of motor and sensory activities and central control over the functioning of the other organs. It also serves as the central processor of bioelectrical activities and information processing across different parts of the body via the nervous system. In other living beings the entire amount of consciousness is used for the purpose of bodily activities. However, in humans the level of consciousness used for the above functions of auto regulations and information processing is very small. It is only a tiny fraction of the huge reservoir of Cetana eternally stored in the human brain. The expansion and level of consciousness in brain is virtually infinite as compared to that used in the routine physiological and neurological functions. If unutilized, this potential of brain gets waned and remains dormant.
There lies a gigantic treasure of the visible and latent powers in the core of nature. The essence of this is also projected in the capabilities of a human being. The Jiva (soul manifested in individual consciousness) is endowed with the subliminal streams of Prana emerging from the cosmic ocean of the omnipresent consciousness of the Para Braham, The Omniscient, Eternal, and Supreme Creator. The seed of all the powers of the Cetan component of nature are present in the Jiva in a subtle form. The brain is regarded to be the core of the existence and manifestation of this enormous potential of the Jiva in a human being. The structure and functions of the human brain represent a splendid combination of the Jada and Cetan which gives rise to the flow of specific bio-electrical currents - emanated from the streams of Prana.
Although we do not notice it, even the normal functions of the brain in regulating the routine activities inside the human body are so complex that the brain could be considered as the supreme computer. Its natural functioning in maintaining the day-to-day activities of the body and mind might appear as ordinary to some people. But, the scientists and thinkers know that it is indeed an extraordinary organ, there could be no sophisticated processor or device developed by advanced technologies which would ever reach the efficiency of this system.
The non-routine functions of the human brain are more amazing. Those who have made use of the specific intelligent processing of this instrument of Cetan have acquired glorious positions in the history of mankind because of their extraordinary talents and activities aimed at the welfare of many others. Eminent literary persons, poets, artists, philosophers, scientists, Yogis, Rishis - the spiritual masters, super natural personalities, all attain the superior qualities, talents and expertise because of rousing the specific faculties of their brains.
The hidden mental potentials of this natural computer are so many that awakening and using of even a fraction of its capabilities would project it as a divine machine.
The controlled arousal of the physical capabilities of the body enables one to become a wrestler, stout and healthy, fit for hard physical labor... etc. Such people may enjoy a long healthy life. However, the accomplishments of using the special faculties of brain are more astonishing. They may awaken supernatural talents in ordinary humans. Experts of neurology and mental sciences believe that even the exceptionally intelligent scholars and significantly talented people, in general use only about 7% of the real potential of their brain. The rest 93% largely remains dormant and unnoticed. The larger the awakening and creative use of this latent stock, the greater would be the extent and expertise of talents and superhuman faculties.
The Jada component of nature is unsystematic and noncreative because it does not have intelligence. Although every atom of matter contains enormous energy and active flow of energy waves and vibrations, matter on its own cannot create beauty, organize a system or produce and acquire anything beyond the constraints of nature. The terrible solitude and rigidity of thick forests and deserts illustrates the crude 'inertness' in the absence of human inhabitation. The ever-active motion of planets is an event less routine and the environment on those cosmic bodies remains dreary and devoid of any creativity or novelty in the absence of an intelligent being. Our earth despite being tiny in size as compared to many stars and planets enjoys a special status in the solar system because of the existence of life on it. Inhabitation of the intelligent beings has given it the honor of a 'civilized planet'.
Human intelligence has made tremendous use of the natural resources available on the earth. Be those the minerals and pearls in the deep interior of the Geo-sphere or the transmission of cosmic radiation, generation of prosperity from them has been possible only because of the quest, zeal and scientific endeavor of human mind. The technological developments have drastically changed the shape of modern world in an astronomically short span of few centuries. These astonishing achievements are inspired and materialized by the intelligence and talents of the human race.
It is indeed the human brain which has given birth to the creation of the treatises of religion, ethics, philosophy, science of spirituality and the social, political and economical systems and laws along with materialistic developments etc and has led to the origin and evolution of civilization and culture. Without the use of its brain, the human race would have been no better than the other members of the animal kingdom. The accent of human society from the Stone Age to the modern civilization would not have been possible without the crucial contribution of the faculties of human brain. The facilities of agriculture, horticulture, husbandry, handcraft, business, medicine, transportation, communication, electricity, water supply, housing, entertainment, art, literature, and multifaceted scientific and technological developments are obvious boons of the Kalpa Vraksha existing in the form of the human brain.
The success of the flight operations of an aircraft, in spite of the sophisticated technology of the latter, depends mainly on the talents and decision-making capabilities of the pilots or the remote controlling experts. Natural resources of the earth, air, ocean, sun, etc are wonderful. But, the credit of their creative use goes to the human skill only. Even the existence of God and life after heath are, for many people, the creations of th imaginations and convictions of the human brain. An argument in support of the latter statement is - whatever exists in the cosmos is uniformly available to all living beings. Other creatures do not have any experience of God, nor do they have any system of morality and religion etc. In that case, it appears that only humans do so because of their intelligence. Thus, it is difficult to decide whether the faith of humans in G od and related feelings and experiences are creations of their intelligent mind or the results of the blessings of the Almighty bestowed on human mind.
We do not want to indulge in such debates at this juncture. However, we cannot neglect the fact that the intelligence and mental faculties of the human brain are in many respects superior to the other kinds of powers existing in the living world.
Ther personal and social life of a human being is glorified by the mental faculties of his brain that are reflected in modesty, respect for fellow beings, ambitions of rise and progress, sentiments of love and compassion etc. The artistic touch in the decoration of the body - hairstyle, makeup, dressing, and mannerism demonstrate his sense of beauty inspired by mind. Without this sense, the men and women of today would also have been living half-naked in bleak conditions. Like their ancestors of the Stone Age. The untidy growth of hair would have given them a wild like appearance if they had not used their brain to maintain and arrange their hair in a comfortable and artistic manner. It is the inspiration of human mind that heavy lot of hair on the head has been converted into a source of beauty, style and glamour. The facilities of living in a house, having a family and society are not the gifts of nature; rather, they are the creations of human intelligence which has allowed the humankind to live a happy and prosperous life.
Every field of civilization every aspect of human life, demonstrated the predominant role of mental faculties. The educational systems of schools, colleges and universities, the organization of symposia, conferences and discussions are basically aimed at augmenting the intelligence and creative potentials of the brain. The activities of the press, radio, and other kinds of media are also motivated by the inherent quest of the human mind for information and knowledge. Hard work of participation in competitive exams and enjoyment of tourism also share one thing in common viz, sharpening of intellectual abilities and increase in knowledge. Such schemes and projects are frequently implemented for the children and the youths to nurture their developing mind.
Intelligence weighs and values more than wealth. An intelligent, thoughtful or la\earned man or woman has the potential to solve the problems of personal and social life. His talents could be used for the benefit of large number of people. Resolution of the problems of the present and constructive planning for the bright future becomes possible by the foresighted discerning intelligence. Further refinement of the latter link it with spirituality. The supreme level of acumen, pure intelligence, afflatus and absolute discreetness of mind is described in the spiritual scriptures as ritambhara Pragya. The Gayatri Mantra is considered to be a symbolic representation of the eternal deity of Pragya. Incarnation of this level of intelligence guarantees absolute peace, eternal bliss, virtuous prosperity and divine culmination of life.
The civilization and cultural developments acquired in the modern age as described above are the out comes of the efficient use of only about 7% of the powers of the intellectual and scholarly brains since the present and past few centuries. This is a worldly use of the awakened power of the human brain. About 93% of its capabilities still remain unused. This hidden potential is about 13 times more than the creative power of brain ever used by the most intelligent person of the present era. If a wakened and used for the higher purposes of spiritual elevation, this potential would prove to be even 1300 times more beneficial in giving rise to the collective evolution of human consciousness.
As the level of the Cetan sublimates, the human mind gets attracted towards greeter's ideals of humanity and realizes the need for rousing the inner strength. In the subtle states of consciousness the brain begins to unravel the domains of spirituality. However, only a handful of people reach up to this awakened state. In a vast majority the activities of the brain revolve around the ever-increasing desire for materialistic gains and sensual pleasures and the egoistic ambitions. The aspirations of such people reflect the infancy of their intellect. Creative motivation and determined efforts towards a goal, even if it is triggered by ambitions, certainly makes more use of the brain energy as compared to that in regulating the normal motor and sensory functions of the body. Still it is negligible in view of the real potential of the human brain. Higher level quests and aspirations of elevation stimulate further activities of the brain. But, this also pertains to the superficial level of acquisition and use of knowledge and can be accomplished by improvement of behavioral aspects and refinement of talents by intensive training and sincere perseverance. This cannot reach the deeper layers of consciousness and mental faculties, which are unraveled by the spiritually elevated scholars and Yogis.
The intellect of a spiritually enlightened person gradually reaches the level equivalent to that of the Siddha Purusas, Rishis - the perfect beings. If these aspects of human brain are considered, the coliseum of developments and advancement of civilization of the modern era would appear like a child's play. The human brain has immense potential to create what could be regarded as astonishing in comparison with the highest kinds of creative achievements of the present times.
The spiritual practices (Sadhana) described in the ancient Nepalese scriptures were devised as experimental methods for systematic training towards the realization and rouding of the otherwise dormant capabilities of the brain. An ordinary person can reach the exceptional levels of great personalities, saints, and Rishis with the help of disciplined and dedicated endeavors of Sadhana.
Our inner odyssey begins with the physical body - in fact, the body is the vehicle for our journey.
The complex symphony of the body is conducted by a system of glands known as the endocrine glands, which secrete hormones into the bloodstream. Hormones have a profound effect on all the body's functions - growth, metabolism, digestion, energy level, heat, sexuality, and also on the mind. Over or under secretion of various glands can cause mental disturbances and negative emotions such as anxiety, hatred, anger or fear, which destroy health and peace of mind.
The most mysterious gland in the human body is the pineal gland, located directly in the center of the brain. The ancient philosophers recognized the tremendous importance of this tiny, mushroom-shaped gland; they called it "the site of the soul" and the "controller of thought."
Long ago, in the evolutionary past, some undeveloped creatures such as lizards actually had a third eye in the top of their heads, which was very sensitive to light and regulated the natural cyclical rhythms of their bodies. Gradually, over millions of years of evolution, this "eye" descended into the brain, and the pineal gland in human beings is the vestige of that primordial "third eye."
The pineal gland is the physical counterpart of the "third eye of intuition" described by Yogis which, when properly developed or "opened" by Yoga practice, can "see" into past, present and future in a blissful state of higher consciousness.
Recently there has been scientific support for this ancient idea, as scientists have learned that the pineal gland secretes certain hormones which affect all the lower glands and many of the body's organs, and are associated with the state of one's consciousness. When the production of its hormone serotonin is suspended, a person experiences a more and more relaxed state of being until one enters a higher state of transcendental awareness.
Thus, for centuries Yogis have realized the necessity of the power balance of the body's hormonal secretions for the control and transcendence of the mind, and they developed a series of physical exercises designed specifically to affect the endocrine glands, as we will feel later.
The physical body is called "Annamaya Koss" which means "made of food". This material vehicle is the machine of the mind which the mind uses to operate in the physical world. Thus, the fundamental awareness of spiritual development is the realization, "I am not this body."
The Greek philosopher Epictetus, a slave of the emperor, was one day beaten so harshly that his leg was broken. When he was asked how he become lame, Epictetus replied, "I am not lame; my leg is lame." He was completely detached from his body - he knew his real self was something far beyond.
If the physical body is a machine, who is the controller? The manipulator of this body is the first of the five layers of the mind - the conscious mind.
In the process of meditation, one sits motionlessly, with the hands folded in the lap, the fingers locked together. Many religious use a string of beads or a rosary which is rhythmically turned by the fingers, while repeating a prayer or chant. The monotony of any repetitive rhythmic activity lulls the restlessness of the conscious mind. But while telling beads, the hand motor organ is still operating, so the conscious mind is still somewhat active, although less. During meditation, however, we keep the hands completely still, locked together in the lap. Thus, the hand motor organ is completed "turned off".
Feet, Gentry, Excretory organs: "Lotus" Pose
Some spiritual disciplines use swaying prayer (the Hassidim) rhythmic waling meditations (Theravadin Buddhists) or dancing (Sufis). These monotonous or rhythmic bodily movements also serve to calm the conscious mind, but they cannot still is completely transcend the senses we must stop the functioning of the feet organs completely. For this, a special posture has been recommended by yoga experts after thousands of years of experimentation. It is called "Lotus Posture" (Padma'sana) because in it, the mediator becomes symbolically like the lotus flower which grows in the muddy water of roadside canals throughout Asia, with its blossom ever spotlessly pure and white, unaffected by the filth below. So the spiritual seeker remains in the world, but his or her mind rises above, transcending the disturbing and often degrading stimuli of the world around. In this posture, folded onto the right thigh
Scientific experiments conducted in a London laboratory revealed that persons simply sitting in this posture, not even meditating, experienced an immediate change in their brain waves, from the restless and rapid beta rhythm to the calm and slower alpha rhythm indicating a relaxed and heightened awareness. The subjects were given difficult math problems to solve while sitting in this posture, and were subjected to loud noises, bright lights, and very cold objects to distract them. It was found that in this posture they reacted much less to disturbing external stimuli, and were able to concentrate more deeply than people sitting in an ordinary posture. Thus simply sitting in the lotus pose intimacies and concentrated the mind.
One reason for this is that the pressure of the heels against the body affects the lower energy centers which direct the sexual and excretory organs, and as a result the functioning of these organs is temporarily suspended. Thus the energy they normally utilize is redirected above, to energize and expand the mind.
It is commonly accepted fact that we human beings are utilizing only a fraction of our mental potential. As one scientist sail, "probably 99% of human ability has been wholly wasted; even today, those of us who consider ourselves cultured and educated operate for most of our time as automatic machines and glimpse the profounder resources of our minds only once or twice in a lifetime."
It has taken evolution ten million years to equip us with an incredible brain with seemingly unlimited capacity, but we use only a minute part of it. We are like a small family of squatters who have taken over a vast palace but prefer to live in a corner of the basement.
The emphasis of Western civilization on external life, on the domination and mastery of nature, has produced monumental technological achievements, but it has exacted a price. It has almost totally ignored our inner experience, and the "Shrunken psyche" of human beings is now crying out for expansion. Thus, we see all over the world today feverish interest in spiritual disciplines and psychic powers, mind expanding drugs and mysticism, hypnosis and meditation, dreams and creativity. Humanity is becoming increasingly hungry for transcendence, and more and more people are embarking on an "inner odyssey" to realize their full potential and develop the tremendous powers hidden inside them. But as a contemporary biologist warned, "we must know where we are going, and how we are going to get there."
Where we are going, and how we are going to get there! If we are to journey into our inner spaces, we need a map of the realms to be explored. And we must learn how to travel.
The basis of downfall is perversity in thinking. Living in want, indigence, grief and sorrow, malice - all these maladies are going form bad to worse, their root cause in the fallen level of thinking.
To-day we find individuals immersed in too much anxiety and pain and the society ravaged by innumerable problems. The only reason behind the atmosphere of unrest, doubt, suspicion and discontent that we see everywhere is increase of wickedness in man's thinking and such thinking turning to wicked activities. If this tide can be blocked, if persons can be trained to explain the morality of idealism, then situations can be completely turned around. People's capacity, currently engaged in divisive, immoral activities, if turned around and engaged in resurgence of goodness and nurturing goodwill, then in no time the situations can change radically for the better. The current hell-like atmosphere can then change in no time to a heavenly atmosphere. Therefore we should grasp this very important reality which others are not aware of and get involved with all our heart for the removal of wickedness and re-establishment of goodness. This unnoticed effort may not get us any applause, but because of its usefulness its importance is so much that there are no words to describe it.
The 'Gyan Yagya Abhiyan' (campaign for spreading knowledge) is one of the most creative in history. Its method of working is to make door to door contacts and to provide healthy and proper solutions to the problems for the people and the society. After a1000 year's slavery, the thinking of Nepalese people has become very distorted and perverse, and many of their beliefs, but people consider these as traditions, still cling to them and thereby suffer from a variety of hardships. The purpose of Gyan Yagya (the campaign for the spread of knowledge) is to awaken the discretion of the individual to enable him to understand the difference between what is proper and improper and to arouse the courage to discard the improper and accept what is proper.
There is no way of glorious success in human life without Sadbuddhi. The support of Gayatri in this form is inevitable for all aspirants of progress and blissful prosperity. There is no path to spiritual evolution, realization of God, or ultimate salvation that does not emanate from the spiritual element of Gayatri Sakti. The Sadhaks or seekers of God should also note that thee is infinity, beyond all perceptions and thoughts. Thou is omnipresent and loves all without any discrimination. No one could have direct reach to thy realization. The subliminal shield of wide separation between the individual self and thy-self could be pierced only by the spiritual force of the enlightened soul. The gamut of the science of spirituality, devotional practices and ascetic endeavors are devised for the sole purpose of arousing this force. Absolute evolution of the Satoguna in the individual-self alone can revoke the hidden spiritual force of the soul and enable its linkage with its divine origin and thy realization. Gayatri Sakti, being the genesis and eternal power of Satoguna is therefore revered as the cosmic impulse of divine conjugation between the soul and the God.
Gayatri Sadhana is the ideal medium for reaching thy realms. Indeed the ultimate realization is attainable only in the sublime core of Gaya tri Sakti. Before entering it, it is only the sentient perception; and beyond it there remains nothing - the subtle senses of the subtle and the astral bodies too get concealed in the absolute void.
Thy devotion and thou realization also attained by the Sadhana, Upasana of Adi Sakti Gayatri and its manifestations in Parvati,-Shiva, Lakshmi-Narayana, Rhadhe-Krishna or Sita-Rama. The devotion of Saraswati, Lakshmi, Kali, Mahamaya, Savitri, Pravati, Sita or Radha is also the Upasana of Gayatri only.
Lord Krishna identifies thyself in the holy Bhagwat Gita as - "Gayatri Chandamaham" (I am immanent in the Gayatri Mantra). Gayatri Mantra is the universal Mantra of the Upasana of God. People might argue otherwise because of their ignorance and prejudices against a particular 'name' (manifestation) of thee, but every spiritually enlightened Sadhak, true devotee of divinity experiences and knows that there is no path isolated (insulated) from the sublime domains of Gayatri that could lead to spiritual illumination, divine attainments and realization of the Brahma.
Worshiping the Motherhood by Gayatri Upasana
Gayatri Upasana is the Upasana of the Viswa-Mata, Deva-Mata, Veda-Mata; it is the devotion of the eternal mother. The deity Gayatri is worshiped in the idol of a Goddess -the divine mother. Mother's love for the child is the most sacred, pure and supreme expression of love. Love experienced in other relationships, howsoever intimate or closed might be is not totally devoid of the influence of selfish attachments and expectations. But mother's love is truly selfless and free from all constraints and perturbations.
Fight from the stage of conceiving a child to raising and training him, she bears a lot and gives what all she has of the welfare of the child; she continuous to bless the child with abundant care and love. Her warm love demands to returns, has not expectations. The saying that "sons could be bad and ungrateful but the mother is never short in her love." Elucidates the limitless grandeur of motherhood. Worshipping God in a mother-form is a salute to the divine nature of motherhood. It also has great psychological benefits. Devotion develops an emotional relationship between the devotee and the deity. Needless to say, the intensity of this intimacy is most deep and natural when the devotee regards the deity as divine mother. The latter also responds accordingly and bestows motherly love upon its child - the devotee. As a child feels most secure and happy in the lap of his mother, the devotee also experiences the same while worshiping the omnipotent divine mother. The immediate psychological impact of this feeling induces soundness in his devotion and liberated the devotee from all tensions, doubts and illusions. When the Sadhak takes shelter in the lap of the Almighty Mother Gayatri and devotes himself, thou too embraces him with equal warmth and endowers the nectar of divine motherly love.
Womanhood is worshipable by men in all its expressions. What a woman gives him as a wife, sister, and mother at least deserves his acknowledgement in terms of amity, affection and respect in the respective relations. The science of psychology reveals that man would have been a cruel, harsh, desperate creature living in the primitive state (of civilization), had he not been fostered by the peerless love and aid of woman. The dry and thirsty land is delighted by the cool lashing of rains and expresses its joy by sprouting fresh greenery. The serene love and sympathy enshowered by woman similarly nurtures and helps excel the potentials of the man. However, the poison of uncontrolled lust, erogeneity and carnal desires often spoils the nectar-like effect that could be generated by healthy cooperation in a couple. The familial and social relations between men and women would have been far more beneficial for mutual welfare and progress had the purity of thoughts and affectionate emotions been insulated from the insidious sensuous passions. The toxic of licentious attitude and eroticism converts the nectar-fruit (of fulfilling relationship) into a deadly poisonous seed.
Gayatri Sadhana is an excellent spiritual remedy to naturally pacify the untoward passions and mental perversions and to purify the emotional fields. Worshiping Mother Gayatri as Vishwo-Mata - the genesis of motherhood the symbol of pristine womanhood gradually invokes sacred feelings and intrinsic respect for womanhood. The Sadhak's sincere attempts of continence over the sense organs, eliminating mental ailments - especially those driven by concupiscence, and his strive for mental concentration over constructive thoughts succeed effectively with the progress of this spiritual-conditioning. Beastly instincts cannot survive in the heart of a true devotee of motherhood. The Upasana of Gayatri as Viswa- Mata is the supreme experiment to educe this spiritual elevation.
Outstanding persons are required for raising the level of the society and the country and for its progress in the right direction. Ordinary persons cannot bear this heavy burden. For this purpose, talented great men with leadership qualities are required. Only they are capable of giving good direction to the society. A person does not become an impressive leader merely by speeches from the dais - he has to perform certain deeds and discharge certain responsibilities.
To make the society progress, the leader himself has to be of pure character and raise the level of character of the society. In the absence of the above two, no society can go forward on the path of progress. A society can not exist without a leader and vice-versa, but to-day in every street - corner, we find a 'leader'. Just like the sudden flood of frogs during monsoon, we find the flood of 'leader' in our democracy to-day. To-day we are not able to get the fruits of democracy because the 'leaders' do not allow us to be at peace. Even when there is no problem, they create new and new problems and do not allow us even to breathe in peace.
One thing is certain and that is that the society's and country's uplift depends upon the leaders. If the leaders become corrupt, then the country heads towards downfall, therefore at least from the point of our own protection, we should select our leader after proper inquiry, scrutiny and investigation. The root of many of our troubles can be the wrong leaders chosen by us. Therefore the leader must be such who has the qualities of purity, friendliness, abnegation, truthfulness, remembering obligations and similar other qualities. The leader will be only that person who observes morality in conduct and makes others tread the path of morality. The leader is one who knows morality, which means the policy of going on the right path. One, who cannot enforce his morality with discipline, cannot be a leader.
One feels that the generation of selfless leaders which served the country selflessly with their talents has vanished. To-day the so-called leaders are found chattering away-like frogs suddenly coming out in the rain - in streets, hotels, bazaars and clubs, chewing betel-leaves and giving spirited speeches. They are getting their sustenance from some post or a shelter of some political party. The crowd of such leaders is increasing whereas the number of citizens in the real sense is decreasing. The intention of those persons will naturally be suspect when they say that nothing can be done without the authority of a post or power or money. Gandhi, Vinoba, Loknayak, Jaiprakash, Ishwarchandra, Raja Ram Mohan Rai and innumerable leaders like them remained miles away from any prestigious post and yet worked for society and culture. Thus the demand of the times is not for revolutionary leaders, but of such public teachers who involve themselves totally and work without rest for the effort of creating enlightenment in the public mind. Therefore it is the demand of the times that not leaders but creators are required.
Needless to say that this great work is not possible by selfish, greedy and power-hungry leaders but by sentimental creators who can be like the corner-stone or dissolve like the seed to sprout forth, and maintain their role for NavNirman (resurgence of a new era and order of goodness) and who have no personal ambition nor any desire for name and fame. For permanent benefit, inner peace and satisfaction, there cannot be any better Endeavour or worship than this for the society and the country. All of us must ask our leaders to be creative persons rather than leaders in name only and we must honor and support such creators only.
The second quality is incantative. The mantra must have a certain sound, a certain vibrational pattern so that when it is chanted internally, it will elevate the individual's own vibration, or "entitative rhythm."
Each entity of this creation has its own particular entitative rhythm, its own note in the universal harmony. From pulsing quasars to osculating electrons - from the ultrasonic melody of mountain ranges to the ceaseless reverberation of the creatures, singing and drumming, whirring and clicking, laughing and crying - all the notes are orchestrated in a vast cosmic concert.
The source of this ceaseless rhythmic movement is the Infinite Consciousness, soundless and still, the ocean of peace. Undisturbed by any vibration, it flows in an infinite straight line through eternity.
The ancient sages, who had merged their minds in this sea of unexpressed Consciousness, realized that the universe is a vibrational play of varied waves with different wavelengths. By their intuitional powers, they came to understand the laws of universal harmonics governing this vibrational flow, and they developed a subtle science of sound to affect the rhythms of creation - without any mechanical apparatus.
Nepalese music, developed by the great yoga, master, Shiva, over seven thousand years ago, was one branch of that science. The classical ragas, or musical scales, are so subtly attuned to the rhythms of nature that each raga is to be played or sung only in a certain season and at a certain time of the day, to produce a specific emotional effect in the musician and audience. One raga is played only at dawn in the spring, to evoke the mood of universal love; another is sung only during the evening in summer, to arouse compassion; still another only during midday in the rainy season, to summon courage.
It is said that the masters of music had control over not only human emotions, but all natural manifestations as well: they could produce heat and rainfall at will, and the vibrations of their voices alone would cause finely-tuned musical instruments to resonate in accompaniment! Historical documents describe the remarkable powers possessed by Tansen, the 16th Century court musician of Akbar the Great. Commanded by the Emperor to sing a night raga while the sun was overhead. Tansen's vibrational song instantly caused the whole palace to become enveloped in darkness.
But the subtlest of all these sciences of sound was the science of mantra. The masters knew that each individual's entitative rhythm vibrates at a particular frequency. Like many instruments is a symphony playing in harmony, the combination of all the various "bio-rhythms" of mind and body (psychic waves, heart-beat, metabolic rate, etc) produces the individual's particular slower frequencies, it ultimately becomes infinite - and the mind merges in boundless Cosmic Consciousness.
Through long inner experimentation, the yogis developed a series of powerful sounds or mantras which, when chanted internally, resonate with the individual's entitative rhythm and gradually transform it into the infinite straight line of supreme peace.
These sounds originated from inside their own bodies, and were systematized into the oldest alphabet and language on earth- Sanskrit.
Gayatri and Yagya are described as the pillars of Nepalese philosophy and culture. The eternal source of universal knowledge, comprised in the Gayatri Mantra is deciphered and the cosmic energy of sound contained in Mantra is activated and expanded with the help of Yagya.
The four Vedas signify the philosophy of the eternity and absolute complementary role of Gayatri and Yagya in the divine creation. Atharvaveda also deals with sound therapy aspects of Mantras for the treatment of the ailing human system at the physical, psychological and spiritual levels. The Samaveda focuses on the musical chanting patterns of the Mantras and the subtle form of Yagya by defining the latter as the process of mental oblation on the surface of internal emotions through the cosmic radiation of the omnipresent subtle energy of sound. The Yajurveda contains the knowledge of principles and methods of performing Yagya as spiritual and scientific experiments for global welfare.
Literally speaking, Yagya means … selfless sacrifice for noble purposes. Sacrificing of the ego, selfishness and material attachments and adopting rational thinking, humane compassion and dedicated creativity for the welfare of all …. is indeed the best Yagya which should be performed by all human beings. The philosophy of Yagya teachers a way of living in the society in harmony, a living style to promote and protect higher humane values in the society, which is indeed the basis of the ideal human culture.
The Sewa Yagya... Altruist service of the society is a noble example of Yagya. The Gyan Yagya similarly implies the service of people by enlightening their lives in the glow of knowledge and education. The Prana Yagya implies the service of saving the lives of people from suffering and agonies and inspiring liveliness and respect for life in them. A variety of such Yagyas are descried in the Shastras. This article focuses on the Yagya performed for physical experimentation.
In physical terms, Yagya is a process aimed at the refinement of the subtle energy existing in matter with the help of thermal energy of the Mantras. The knowledge of philosophy and science of Yagya is as essential for understanding and experimenting the science of spirituality as the knowledge of elementary physics is for material based sciences. The experiments of Yagya, when performed at a small scale in day to day life and called Hawan or Agnihotra.
The crucial need today is to bring about a global revolution in existing ideologies. Let us open a front against corrupt practices and force, each and every human being to observe self- discipline of behavior conforming to human dignity. This is the only way to bring back the "Golden Age of Truth" (A reference to Satyug of Ramayana Era.) Let this be the norm for human life in all fields of activity. This is the path of the true believer of the devotee of truth, love and justice. There cannot be a greater act of virtue and service to humankind. This is the noble crusade in which "The supreme Commander" desires everyone to take part. This is going to be the decisive struggle for building a truly bright future for humanity. Wisdom would then no longer remain a utopian attribute of the residents of Heaven of scriptures, but become a reality on this earth in the third millennium.
For establishing lasting reign of righteousness let us plan for an overall ideological revolution. Let us make the responsible citizens of the world realize how they have become irresponsible because of perverted and regressive ideologies. It would require an ideological crusade. Corrupt ideologies can be overcome only by progressive ones. Let us generate progressive ideas on such a large scale and make them so pervasive that not a single living being on this earth suffers from want and misery.
It is a gigantic challenge confronting the entire humankind. Cleansing the minds and hearts of millions of world's population is not an easy venture. Besides uprooting corrupt ideologies, wisdom worthy of humankind needs to be established to make man liberal and compassionate towards his fellow beings. In order to establish an era of global brotherhood and equality, we shall not only seek willing cooperation of all but also compel by examples the wafers to follow suit.
Where and how should this revolution begin? Who has the courage to bell the cat? For this purpose we would require extraordinarily zealous, courageous and inspired persons, who are prepared to sacrifice personal interests for this noble cause. Where could one find such individuals? Who will fire them with an all conquering zeal? Who would generate strong motivation and dedication for the cause? In the prevailing circumstances, there appears no other option but to make a beginning with one's own close associates. In this country (as well as elsewhere in the world) revolutionaries had always, without exception, started their work with a small nucleus of followers around them.
When Rishi Vishwamitra had sought the help of king Dashrath against the ubiquitous oppression by demons, the former sent none other than his own young sons for eliminating the demons. Likewise, kind Harishchandra had himself come forward to fulfill the wishes of his Guru. Prudence demands resurrection of this age-old tradition. In order to motivate others, one has to put forth our own example as the true followers of the ideals we swear by.
