Golden rule: inherent flaws + 4 more

Baba

Golden rule: inherent flaws

Namaskar,

Sometimes folks talk among themselves and wonder, “Why have people become so selfish these days?” 

In His teachings, Baba cites the example from ancient India when a king saw a hawk catch a small, helpless bird. The king stepped forward to rescue that bird. Then the hawk asked the king, “What am I going to eat?” In turn, the king coaxed the hawk into releasing the small, tender bird, and the king offered his own flesh to the hawk to eat. That type of teaching was given to young children. So, in their infancy, those small kids learned to sacrifice for the welfare of others. The general human tendency is to rush and help those who are suffering.
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Thus the question arises, “Why do some people become selfish?” The answer is embedded in the below letter. Kindly read carefully, and you will get the answer.

Remember, here we are comparing the theology of certain religions with Ananda Marga philosophy. Unless one keeps this basic idea in mind, the matter will remain elusive.

"Golden rule"

The following is the Christian perspective of their stated golden rule.

The Christian golden rule is based on the principle Jesus Christ taught in Matthew:7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.: "Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them," adding, "for this is the Law and the Prophets.

We shall compare the above golden rule with the neo-humanistic principle of sádhutá. Remember, here we are comparing the theology of certain religions with Ananda Marga philosophy. Unless one keeps this basic idea in mind, the matter will remain elusive.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


View of AM: debate on religious loopholes

First we should bear in mind that Baba guides us that open and healthy debate is welcomed on points of philosophy. Some may wrongly think that we are not permitted to point out any religion etc. However, Baba's guideline is that we must not mock their beliefs, but on points of philosophy, open and respectful debate is needed.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Different views can be compared and presented in philosophical books. The philosophical and psychological loopholes in an argument may be pointed out without being disrespectful.” (1)

Now let’s examine the operative factor of this rule by examining some practical applications.


"Golden rule" in action

Here are some practical applications of how the so-called golden rule - "Do unto others as you would like done to you” - functions. By this way we may best understand how it works.

(A) A person may think, “If I need my house fixed then I should be sure to help others fix their house so they in turn will help me. And if I do not need to fix my house, then there is no need for me to help others fix their house. Reason being: I do not get any benefit from that; I do not need them to do that same work for me. In that case, why should I help others. After all, the rule is: "Do unto others as you would like done to you." And since my house is not in need of repair, there is no reason why I should help someone else fix their house.”
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(B) A person living in an area with ample rainfall with access to all the food and water they need will not be concerned about those suffering from drought and starvation in the desert. Because those communities have nothing to offer that individual. Rather that person will think, “There is no reason to help those deprived of food and water, because I am not in need of those resources."

Remember, here we are comparing the theology of certain religions with Ananda Marga philosophy. Unless one keeps this basic idea in mind, the matter will remain elusive.


This is the "golden rule"

The Christian golden rule is based on the principle Jesus Christ taught in Matthew:7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.: "Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them," adding, "for this is the Law and the Prophets.

Now see the operative factor of this rule by examining some practical applications.

(C) If a person thinks, "I need someone to watch my kids one evening a week, so I will offer to watch my neighbour's children for an evening a week. Not because my neighbours need help in that regard, but because I need that type of support." Or, goaded by the psychology "do to others to get your own desire met", a person who has no children will see no reason to help those who have children. That person may think, "Why should I help out and watch over their kids when I myself do not have any children. If I help their kids there is nothing in it - i.e. no return - for me."

Remember, here we are comparing the theology of certain religions with Ananda Marga philosophy. Unless one keeps this basic idea in mind, the matter will remain elusive.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Immoral alliance to protect self-interests

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “The apparent morality in a materialistic society is nothing but an immoral alliance to protect self-interests. Without spiritual ideals true morality based on universal love cannot be awakened.” (2)

In western / Semitic thought, there is a maxim:

“Do unto others as you would want done to you.”

Ananda Marga philosophy espouses the following tenet:

“Just as my own life is dear to me, so is the life of others dear to them. As I want to live, all other beings also wish to live. So one must have compassion for them.”

Some naively conclude that these two outlooks are the same. Here we delineate the stark differences between these contrasting outlooks so that there should not be any confusion about this.

It should be clear that the first approach - “Do unto others as you would want done to you” - is based on selfishness and narrow-mindedness. Whereas the neo-humanistic ideal of Ananda Marga - “Just as you hold your life dear to you, others also cherish and hold dear their own lives, so one must have compassion for them” - is wholly based on service and selflessness. The two approaches are worlds apart.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The problem is that some persons preach that both of these credos are the same: That our neo-humanistic approach is on par with the religious code known as the golden rule etc. This letter aims at addressing this misunderstanding. It logically proves how the Christian golden rule - based on the principle Christ taught - is grounded in selfishness. 

Remember, here we are comparing the theology of certain religions with Ananda Marga philosophy. Unless one keeps this basic idea in mind, the matter will remain elusive.

Conclusion

Thus in so many ways, Baba has presented His neo-humanistic principle that we should have compassion for others and serve them remembering that they value and cherish their lives, and they are also the blessed children of Parama Purusa. That sadhu mentality stands in stark contrast to the selfish, provincial approach of the golden rule.

In Him,
Yogesh
(Jacob Unger)

The Semitic religions -- Islam (Shia, Sunni), Christianity (Protestant, Catholic, and Mormons etc), and Judaism -- are just theologies. These religions don't have any philosophy per se. That's why in the intellectual realm they are operating from a deficit; they only have their dogmatic beliefs, not any intellectual analysis. In fact, intellectual discussions about their core values are not even allowed in these Semitic faiths. One is not allowed to question the foundational pillars of those religions like the Bible, Torah, and Quran (Koran); one must just blindly accept those religious canons. In contrast, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism have their own philosophy. That's why Baba discusses those religions in a more comprehensive and in-depth manner. Just having a theology - and no philosophical tenets that can be challenged and respectfully argued - that is forced on people is bogus. In that case, i.e. in the Semitic faiths, those religious propounders made grand declarations in the name of God because they had no other tool or strategy. Devoid of philosophy - or logic and reasoning - their entire modus operandi was grounded in making sweeping declarations in the name of God and making implied threats to those who refuse to follow. Sadguru Baba mocks such false proclamations. Baba indirectly says that those propounders were cowards because they did not have the courage to say “I say”, but instead proclaimed outlandish things in the name of God. This was the adopted strategy by those propounders of the various Semitic faiths, and that's why Sadguru Baba does not address those religions in an in-depth, comprehensive manner.
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~ In-depth study ~

Myth: AM is mix of the various religions

1. New sadhakas must be educated about the difference between the selfless outlook of Ananda Marga and the selfish approach of certain religious perspectives. New margiis should not be left to understand that Ananda Marga is an extension of existing religious thought, or that it is a mix of the various religions. The Ananda Marga outlook is completely new and unique and stands as the basis for neo-humanism. By their actions, it is very evident the various religions are not up to this standard. Thus one should not be inclined to appreciate or accept the "golden rule" as their polestar.

2. At present, the entire world is running after western pseudo-culture, and we must clearly warn them that the selfish, materialistic ways of capitalism in the west are not ideal.  Using the purview of neo-humanism though, it is evident their actions and overall aim is materialistic. Here the point is that without sadhana and a deep commitment to the spiritually based outlook of neo-humanism, one unknowingly accepts and embraces materialism. Their body, mind, and outlook get coloured in that way.

3. It is our duty to spread Ananda Marga ideals and ignite discussion and debate on this issue so others may gain the requisite knowledge to understand.

Remember, here we are comparing the theology of certain religions with Ananda Marga philosophy. Unless one keeps this basic idea in mind, the matter will remain elusive.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


What are Semitic religions

When we speak about the Semitic religions, we are referring to Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. The word Semitic describes the people who came from the Middle East and their languages. Arabs and Jews are both Semitic. Christianity is a Semitic religion because it originated in the Middle East.

Healthy discussion & debate

Baba guides us that open and healthy debate is welcomed on points of philosophy. Some may wrongly think that we are not permitted to point out any religion etc. However, Baba's guideline is that we must not mock their beliefs, but on points of philosophy, open and respectful debate is needed.

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "Different views can be compared and presented in philosophical books. The philosophical and psychological loopholes in an argument may be pointed out without being disrespectful." (3)

Thus, reviewing the integrity of the Christian golden rule on points of its philosophical meaning and practical application is most definitely allowed and approved by Baba. Only the neo-humanistic outlook of Ananda Marga - not any other so-called golden rule - can lift humanity out of its present plight and bring that balm of peace.
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Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Neohumanism is the only way – human beings will have to accept it today or tomorrow." (4)

Remember, here we are comparing the theology of certain religions with Ananda Marga philosophy. Unless one keeps this basic idea in mind, the matter will remain elusive.


"Golden rule" based on self-serving

The Christian golden rule is based on the principle Jesus Christ taught in Matthew:7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.: "Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them," adding, "for this is the Law and the Prophets.

That neo-humanistic sadhu mentality that is grounded in compassion and sacrifice stands in stark contrast to the above selfish, provincial approach of the golden rule.


Pillars of neo-humanism: service & selflessness

Here below is another guideline from Sadguru Baba that demonstrates that our neo-humanistic approach is based on service and selflessness. The key element is that it is not about wanting or receiving anything in return, but is fully focused on serving others.
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Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Bear in mind that you have a duty towards – indeed, you owe a debt to – every creature of this universe, but towards you, no one has any duty; from others, nothing is due." (5)

And in another discourse, Baba explains this same shloka in a very similar way.

Pránáh yathátmano’bhiiśt́ah bhútánám api te tathá;
Átmaopamyena bhutánáḿ dayáḿ kurvanti sádhavah.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "'Every living being’s own life is the dearest life to that being. Just as my own life is dear to me, so is the life of others dear to them. One who knows the truth and looks at others as one’s own, and has feelings of sympathy and kindness for them, is a sa'dhu.' This type of person is born on earth in order to render selfless service to humanity." (6)

Remember, here we are comparing the theology of certain religions with Ananda Marga philosophy. Unless one keeps this basic idea in mind, the matter will remain elusive.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


References
1. Human Society - 1, Moralism
2. Tattva Kaoumdii, Questions and Answers on Ananda Marga Philosophy, Q & A #45
3. Human Society - 1; "Moralism"
4. Neo-humanism in a Nutshell - 1, Perfect Spirituality and Neohumanism
5. Caryacarya - 2, Sadhana, Point #3
6. Discourses on Krsna and the Giita, Why Does Supreme Consciousness Descend?

*        *        *

The below sections are entirely different topics, unrelated to the above material.
They stand on their own as points of interest.

*        *        *

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

Your exquisite vibration

Note: Only those who sincerely practice the higher lessons of sahaja yoga meditation can understand this song in the depths of their heart.

"Tumi yadi náhi ele, vrithái ámár jege tháká, smriti buke dhare rákhá..." (Prabhat Samgiita #3322)

Purport:

O’ my Parama Purusa, if You do not come, then keeping all my sweet memories of You in my heart will be meaningless. All my days and years of doing kiirtan, bhajans, japa, manan, sadhana, dhyana, and pranayama will be for naught. My remaining awake the entire night will be wasted. Lord, if there is no rain, how can the peacock become entranced in its dance.

O’ Supreme Entity, Your vibration reached into everyone's heart, and they felt the bliss of Your effulgent advent, but my heart is still aching in longing. In the deep corner of my mental garden, the mark of Your exquisite vibration did not get imprinted. My thirsty heart has not been quenched. If You do not come, all my waiting will be in vain.

O’ Divine One, I heard that You are floating in everyone's heart, and that You remain there. You come in their meditation, dreams, and thoughts. I also heard that You love all, smile in a most beautiful and attractive way, and remain with everyone through Your ota and prota yoga.

O’ Parama Purusa Baba, when You have not come to me in that close and personal way, then my all efforts are in vain. Please come in Your most special and loving way…

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Unjust naming of Mt Everest

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Mt. Everest, of the Himalayan range, is the highest mountain in the world. This fact was established by Ra'dha'nath Sikadar. Most probably he named the peak after his supervising officer, the Surveyor General of that time, Mr. Everest." (1)

Note 1: Baba is revealing the reality that Ra'dha'nath Sikadar of India first established the truth that Everest is the highest peak in the world. Hence credit should be given to Ra'dha'nath Sikadar, not Mr. Everest. But Mr. Everest took the credit and kept it in his own name. Otherwise the name would be Mt. Ra'dha'nath.

Note 2: Generally speaking, people are not aware how this illustrious mountain of the Himalayan range was named. In particular, why was a European name given for this peak when other Himalayan peaks are named in Sanskrit - like Mt. Kaela'sh.

Note 3: During the British rule of India, the 'Surveyor General' post was occupied by Mr. Everest.

Reference
1. Varn'a Vicitra, Sanskrit Grammar Book, last discourse part 1

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Recipe for greatness

Ananda Marga ideology states, “महत्‌ कौन हैं ? महत्‌ के सम्बन्ध में | जानते हो शब्द है महत्‌, प्रथमा एकवचन है महान् | तो, महान् कौन है ? महत्‌ कौन है ? इस सम्बन्ध में कहा गया क्या ? न, ‘परोपकारात्‌ महत्‌ इति ज्ञेयम्‌’ | अर्थात्‌ जो परोपकार करते हैं, उन्हीं को महत्‌ कहते हैं | और, जो काफ़ी लिखा-पढ़ी सीखे हैं, काफ़ी धनराशि इकट्ठा किए हैं, काफ़ी मान लो पूर्व पुरुष का सम्मान है, सामाजिक प्रतिष्ठा है, सब कुछ है, तो भी वह महत्‌ नहीं है | क्यों ? न, परोपकारात्‌ महत्‌ इति ज्ञेयम्‌ | परोपकार जो करते हैं, वही महत्‌ हैं | और, परोपकार के लिए अधिक धनराशि की भी आवश्यकता नहीं है | तुम्हारे पास जो सम्पद है, उस मौजूदा सम्पद से तुम परोपकार करो | शरीर मज़बूत है तो शरीर से करो | पैसा है, पैसे से करो | बुद्धि है, बुद्धि से करो | क़ुव्वत है, क़ुव्वत से करो | कुछ नहीं है, सद्भावना से करो | [मार्गी लोग---"बाबा, बाबा, बाबा !"] | तो, परोपकार से ही मनुष्य महत्‌ बनते हैं | और जहाँ परोपकार नहीं है, वहीं वे क्षुद्र बन जाते हैं, छोटा बन जाते हैं” (1)

Here below is an English summary of Baba’s above Hindi teaching.

Who is mahat (great)? who is maha'na (great)? About this it has been said, 'paropaka'rat mahat', i.e. those who serve others are mahat. Even if one has studied volumes of books, or accumulated huge wealth, or has a prestigious family heritage, or a good reputation in the society, they are not great if they do not serve others. Only those who serve others are mahat (great). To do social service, huge money is not needed. Whatever strength you have, utilise that to serve others. If your body is strong physically then serve people with your physical might. If you have money, then serve people financially. If you have intellect then serve others with that capacity. If you have courage then serve others by your bravery. And if you do not have anything, then serve others with your good thoughts and well-wishing. Human beings become great by serving others. If a person does not serve they become low and mean. They become meager.

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 28 (H), chapter 19

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

Link between sadhana lessons

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/03/why-and-what-about-sadhana.html

Story: how Baba made me victorious

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2023/05/story-how-baba-taught-me-surrender-part.html

Ananda Marga vs dogmas of epic

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2022/04/baba-yudhisthira-dogma-namaskar-in.html

Jurisdiction of microvita

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/01/is-negative-microvita-imaginary-satan-6.html

Key aspects of sadhana

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/08/committed-sadhana-3-more.html

Remarkable story from reporting session

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/08/who-is-your-acarya.html

Link between sadhana lessons + 5 more

Baba

Link between sadhana lessons

Namaskar,

Baba is the all-knowing Sadguru. So He understands that margiis may not be able to get proper sadhana guidelines from certain acaryas. To ensure that a margii's spiritual career does not get ruined, Baba has included dhyana guidelines and the pranayama chapter in general Ananda Marga books. By this way, any margii is able to correct the procedure of pranayama and dhyana. If anything was wrongly conveyed by an acarya when imparting or revising those lessons, the margii is empowered to fix that by reading Baba's books. This can be said only with regard to both fourth and sixth lessons.
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If an acarya told something that is not consistent with the printed teachings of fourth and sixth lessons, then one should rely upon the guidelines given in Caryacarya part 3 and Yoga Psychology. Verily, Baba has blessed us by including 4th and 6th lessons in general Ananda Marga books.


Pranayama & dhyana interlinked

Pranayama and dhyana are closely associated with one another. Dhyana is very essential for reaching the final goal of liberation. And to do proper dhyana, the 7th lesson of sahaja yoga sadhana - i.e. kumbhak pranayama - is needed. And 4th lesson pranayama also gets the mind pointed. With that pointed mind if a sadhaka practices dhyana then it will be vastly improved. Pranayama is very helpful for doing dhyana. These two lessons are closely linked.

Some WTs are very busy in social service projects and doing various types of business etc. They may not have proper time to read Baba's books or practice deep sincere dhyana for four five hours in their personal life, not even during upavasa. In that case, they may not give proper guidelines to their diksa bhai (initiates) - or any margii who is requesting sadhana guidelines.

On the point of pranayama and dhyana each and every margi should read Baba's books. Not only these two lessons, Baba has clearly written many important guidelines about practices like asanas, 16 Points, kiirtana, tandava, kaoshiki and so many things. These guidelines are available to all. So see the way Guru executes His work.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

What to bear in mind about pranayama

Included are some of Baba’s important guidelines about pranayama and dhyana, as well as related sadhana points. All lessons are helpful and should be done, but Baba has clearly stated in the Acarya Diary that pranayama and dhyana have a special link. That is why those not established in pranayama should not be taught dhyana. Without pranayama, one cannot reach the higher status in dhyana.

One important warning about pranayama is that the mind should be in a proper flow with the right ideation, otherwise pranayama will be detrimental. Doing pranayama in a debased state of mind will have a negative effect. At the same time one should not be overly worried or scared about doing pranayama either. It is a very important lesson that will boost one's sadhana. As previously noted, Baba says in Acarya Diary that these two lessons are interlinked. So pranayama should be done near the end of sadhana directly before one does their final round of dhyana. Pranayama is highly essential and it should be practiced immediately before dhyana.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Yogasiddhi


About sadhana, pranayama, & travel

Recently someone posed a query about doing pranayama during a commercial airline flight and here is the reply:

On a typical airline flight, the air is too dirty to do pranayama. No doubt there are varying degrees of cleanliness and dirtiness, but on the whole it is not healthy or beneficial to do pranayama on a public flight.

People are eating tamasik foods, drinking wine and alcohol, and those smells and vibrations spread throughout the cabin. There is an air purification or circulation system on every plane, but many of those tamasik smells (fish, meat, alcohol etc) and air molecules will reach your seat before going through the air purification system.
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Plus there is so much bacteria floating around and so many germs that it is just not a good environment for pranayama. Flights are crowded, and people are involved in tamasik foods etc and breathing, belching, and creating flatulence etc.

All in all this is not the proper place for pranayama. Other lessons can be done, but not pranayama as you do not want to invite all that tamasik air and bacteria deep inside the lungs.

If you are the only one on the plane or if it is a chartered flight only for sadhakas, then it is ok to do pranayama. Otherwise it is better to find an alternate spot to practice pranayama. For instance, many flights are short and pranayama can be done upon reaching the destination.

If one is traveling across the planet, then there is most often a stopover for several hours. During that time, one should seek out and investigate the facilities in that airport. In many airports, there is a prayer room, meditation room, chapel, or even a yoga room. These are isolated quiet spaces where talking is not allowed, and anyone is welcome to visit and perform any spiritual practice or worship that they choose. This type of place is quite suitable for pranayama and all meditation lessons.


~ In-depth study ~

The way Guru executes His work

Unfortunately some acaryas tell margiis not to do sadhana more, otherwise you will become imbalanced and you will not be able to manage your mundane duties. But Baba never supports such a far-fetched claim. Rather Guru’s teaching is, Do maximum sadhana. So such type of misguided advice, margiis can rectify by referencing Baba's books.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "Human life is for sa'dhana'." (1)


Baba describes practice of pranayama

Ananda Marga Caryacarya "Closing the eyes, sit in either siddhásana, padmásana or bhojanásana. Do bhútashuddhi. After doing ásana shuddhi, concentrate your mind on the point that the ácárya will fix. Then, after doing cittashuddhi, ideate on the first syllable of your Iśt́a mantra, press and close the right nostril with the thumb of the right hand, and draw in a deep breath through the left nostril. During inhalation, ideate that infinite vital energy is entering the point from the infinite Brahma who is existing all around. After taking a full breath close the left nostril with the middle, ring and little fingers, and, taking the thumb away from the right nostril, slowly let out the air (Ideate that the infinite vital energy is returning from the point to that Infinite Brahma). During exhalation ideate on the remaining syllable of your Iśt́a mantra. When the breath has been fully expelled from the right nostril, inhale as fully as possible again through the right nostril. Afterwards, closing the right nostril with the thumb and removing the fingers, exhale the air through the left nostril. This completes one round." (2)

Dhya'na becomes a time-consuming affair

Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "There is an inseparable relationship between the va'yus of the body [ten basic energy flows] and the mind. Unsteadiness of respiration means unsteadiness of mind and vice versa. Pra'n'a'ya'ma is the scientific process to control respiration and hence the mind, as a result of which sa'dhana' is especially facilitated. The practice of dhya'na becomes a time-consuming affair if pra'n'a'ya'ma is not adequately practised." (3)

Pra'n'a'ya'ma is meant for sa'dhakas

Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "The process by which the pra'n'as in the body are controlled is called pra'n'a'ya'ma. Pra'n'a, apa'na, sama'na, uda'na, vya'na, na'ga, ku'rma, krkara, devadatta, and dhanainjaya – the collective name of these ten vital forces is pra'n'a'h. If you wish to increase your apperceptive power you must control the pra'n'a'h. Through regular practice, the mind will become concentrated. Pra'n'a'ya'ma is meant for sa'dhakas – it is better for non-sa'dhakas not to take the risk of injuring themselves by doing pra'n'a'ya'ma." (4)

Paramártha can be achieved only by sadhana

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "One thing which helps in getting remission, or nivrtti, is called artha [that which provides temporary liberation from mundane desires]. But artha is purely physical, so it can bring only physical and temporary remission. For everlasting freedom from duhkha, Paramártha [that which provides permanent liberation] is the only remedy. Paramártha does not bring only temporary remission, but everlasting freedom from duhkha. Atyantikii nivrtti can be obtained only by Paramártha which relieves one of all duhkha: physical, mental and spiritual. This Paramártha can only be obtained by sadhana, that is, spiritual practices. For maintaining peace psychic equilibrium is necessary, and for maintaining this equilibrium freedom from all duhkha forever is necessary. Freedom from duhkha or atyantikii nivrtti can be obtained only from Paramártha, and Paramártha can be achieved only by sadhana, or spiritual practices." (5)


The fundamentals of pranayama

Here Baba provides us with some special questions and answers about the practice of pranayama.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Question: What is pra'n'a'ya'ma?"

"Answer: Pra'n'a'ya'ma is defined as:"

Tasmin sati shva'sa prashva'sayoh gativicchedah pra'n'a'ya'ma.

"That is, pra'n'a'ya'ma is the process of breath control along with the imposition of the ideation of Supreme Consciousness. It helps the mind in concentration and meditation." (6)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Question: What is the spirit of pra'n'a'ya'ma?"

"Answer: Pra'na'n yamayati es'ah pra'n'a'ya'ma. That is, the word pra'n'a'ya'ma literally means “controlling the pra'n'a'h [vital energy]”. The psycho-philosophy behind the practice of pra'n'a'ya'ma is that the spiritual aspirant tries to let the pra'n'endriya [ten vital-energy currents] remain in a state of pause so that the paused unit mind will merge into the ocean of consciousness." (7)

Throughout His teachings Baba guides us that sadhana is the backbone of Ananda Marga ideology. In innumerable places, Baba describes this very fact.

References
1. Caryacarya - 2, Chapter 1, Point #4
2. Caryacarya - III, Pranayama
3. Caryacarya - 1, Sadhana, Point #4
4. Caryacarya - 3, Práńáyáma
5. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Social Psychology
6. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, Question #11
7. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, Question #12

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The below sections are entirely different topics, unrelated to the above material.
They stand on their own as points of interest.

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== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

এর ৰেশি কিছু ৰলা যায় না

“মন্ত্র জিনিসটা আসলে হচ্ছে কি ? আমি উপায় না পেয়ে, ইংরেজিতে মন্ত্রের জন্য incantation শব্দটা ব্যবহার করেছি | কারণ যদি মূল ৰাংলা ব্যবহার করতাম, তাহলে মন্ত্র-শব্দটাই ব্যবহার করতাম | কারণ, ইংরেজি incantation শব্দটা ঠিক মন্ত্রের প্রতিভু নয় | ইংরেজিতে বা Roman-এ আমি ঠিক উপযুক্ত শব্দ কোনও খুঁজে পাইনি | Incantation শব্দটা হচ্ছে এমন কোনও একটা জিনিস যা মানুষ ৰার-ৰার ব্যবহার করে | এর ৰেশি কিছু ৰলা যায় না | কিন্তু সংস্কৃত বা ৰাংলা মন্ত্র শব্দটার মানে ৰলা হচ্ছে-- “মননাৎ তারয়েৎ যস্তু সঃ মন্ত্রঃ পরিকীর্ত্তিতঃ” | যাকে মনন করলে অর্থাৎ ৰার-ৰার ভাবলে, মানুষ ত্রাণের রাস্তা পেয়ে যায়, তাই  হ'ল মন্ত্র |” (1)

Note: in His above teaching in Bengali, Sadguru Baba is teaching us that the terms mantra and incantation are not one and the same. An incantation is something someone may chant and sing over and over again - but to no real effect. In stark contrast, when a practitioner recites a mantra over and over again with full feeling then it leads to supreme realisation and salvation (moksa), by His grace. Thus, there is no equivalent word in the English language for the Samskrta term mantra. That is why, in their written and spoken expression, all sadhakas should use the term mantra, not incantation. 

Reference
1. Morning General Darshan, [TP] Ananda Vacanamrtam Part 16, chapter 11, 14 Nov 1979, Silchar, W.B.

== Section: Important Teaching ==

How dharmikas are treated

Sadguru Baba says, “Great, Bha'skara'ca'rya was. People of his age didn't like it. Because you know, people who adhere to dogma, they do not like or they cannot tolerate ultra-modern ideas. They will say, "It is against the scripture; it is against the system"---they will say like this. And they won't tolerate it. It is the system of human society. And after their death, they appreciate their ideas. Galileo, Copernicus, Socrates---they were not honored during their time, in their lifetime. It is the norm.” (1)

Note: In His above teaching, Baba is guiding us how revolutionary thinkers are never appreciated or honoured in their lifetime; rather, they are mocked, tortured, and exiled. All because their ideas are far beyond the narrow outlook of the common people. However, with the review of history, those thinkers are embraced as great luminaries and the true seers who brought society forward into a brand new era. The same is the case with those dharmikas bringing forth Ananda Marga ideology. Baba’s teachings are entirely new and light years ahead of the common mass. So as Ananda Margiis we do AM pracara to please Him and let His will be fulfilled. In the due course, society will look back and realise how AM dharmikas wiped out the existing dogmas and ushered in a new era of peace and prosperity, by His grace. 

Reference
1. NP, MGD 2 September 1971 Patna

== Section: Important Teaching ==

No sadhaka should ever behave like this

   Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "There are people, however, who have opposite feelings. They burn in envy to see someone happy, and make an all out effort to put them in danger. On seeing someone in distress, they think: “Rightly served. As you sow, so you reap. Let their troubles augment.” Such human-shaped animals are prowling about in many fields of life, including the field of politics."
   "There are some people who, on seeing someone engaged in noble work, try to stop that person; for example, when someone belonging to the opposite camp is trying to help the neglected, downtrodden, people badly hit by famine or flood, they think that [through their philanthropic acts] their adversaries may become popular, and so they must be opposed. There are people who, on seeing someone engaged in harmful activity or malevolent endeavours, encourage them in crude, bestial activities so that they can directly exploit the opportunity for their own benefit." (1)

Reference
1. Shabda Cayaniká Part 4, Disc: 27

== Section ==

 

Fake Vanii From Rudrananda (2018)

Namaskar, 

Those followers of H group must have read the fake vanii. According to Baba's teachings the fake vanii will not give the benefit of a true Ananda Vanii. On the occasion of Ananda Purnima a true Ananda Vanii must be read. 

For any reason if you are one of those who only read the fake vanii then you are on the losing side. The solution is that as soon as possible go and read at least one true Ananda Vanii to get proper virtue. If you do not have Baba's original Ananda Vanii book then that is not a problem - just click here and go and read at least one as this is the true Ananda Vanii collection. And in future everyone should be cautious and remember that fake vaniis will not do. Because fake is after all fake. 

Further down in red font & yellow highlight is the fake vanii propagated by Rudranadna and his stooges and sycophants. They are always in search of one or another point to go against Baba, so they used a fake vanii on the occasion of Ananda Purnima to fulfill their nasty desires. So watch out. Remember, “Yato dharmah tato iśt́ah, yato iśt́ah tato jayah”. “Where there is Dharma, there is Iśt́a (Baba), and where there is Iśt́a (Baba), there is victory.”

Here below is that fake vanii propagated by Rudranadna and his stooges and sycophants

For a bhakta, only ápta vákya has value. What comes from Parama Puruśa is ápta vákya. When the devotee is able to hear, feel, realize and understand the will of Parama Puruśa through having developed a relationship of love with Him, it is called ápta vákya. As devotees, you should follow only ápta vákya. You should remember that the Sixteen Points are your ápta vákya.

If the above fake vanii is the only one you read for Ananda Purnima then be sure to click here and read a true Ananda Vanii.

in Him, 

Pranav

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Can an impoverished person do vaeshyacita seva

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "Every human being gets more or less opportunity for rendering services. If a poor man thinks that he cannot render Vaeshyocita type of service because he is devoid of money he is wrong. The charity of a few paise of the poor has the same value as a thousand rupees from a millionaire. Indeed the charity of these few paise is greater. Lord Krśńa attached greater importance to a handfuls of grains from Vidura than to the sumptuous royal dishes of Duryodhana. Even so, everyone should render service to the world in accordance with their capacity and work for the welfare of the living beings to the best of their ability. Perform viprocita type of service by projecting your convictions to others as best as you can. Let every person perform the four kinds of service as much as possible. Adhyátma yajiṋa is an internal yajiṋa and ultimately it terminates in Paramátman, the original self.” (1)

Reference

1. Subhasita Samgraha -1, Yajiṋa and Karmaphala

== Section: News ==

On 12/31/16:
Victory: Dogmatic MPD appendix deleted from Caryacarya

Namaskar,

Unity Group (Third Front) have decided today in the meeting held in Anandanagar to print Caryacarya book without Mahaprayan Chapter.

It is a very good decision. Victory against Dogma.

At HIS Lotus Feet,

Devesh Kumar, Mumbai

- Courtesy of Ananda Marga Google Groups

== Section: Ananda Vanii ==

Make it meaningful by your sadhana

Original Ananda Vanii states: “After millions of animal lives, a created being attains the human form. That is why all the sacred books speak of the rarity of human life. The wise properly utilize all objects and this utilization alone makes the existence of the object worthy. You have achieved the human frame. You must make it meaningful by your sádhaná, service and sacrifice. Engage yourself in such useful pursuits that even your worst enemies have hardly any chance to despise you. Utilize yourself in such a manner so as to satisfy yourself mentally, that you never wasted your time uselessly on this earth.” (Ananda Vanii #33)

Note: Sadguru Baba has assigned a number to all His original and true Ananda Vaniis. In contrast, Fake Ananda Vaniis do not have any number. By this simple formula, one can easily recognise which is a true Ananda Vanii and which is fake. For this occasion of January 1st 2017, all Ananda Marga units should use one of Baba’s original and true Ananda Vaniis, not a fake one. By this way, one will surely get His blessing.

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Prout: World constitution

Prout philosophy states, “The formation of a World Government will require a world constitution. A charter of principles or bill of rights should be included in such a constitution and encompass at least the following four areas. First, complete security should be guaranteed to all the plants and animals on the planet. Secondly, each country must guarantee purchasing power to all its citizens. Thirdly, the constitution should guarantee four fundamental rights – spiritual practice or Dharma; cultural legacy; education; and indigenous linguistic expression. Fourthly, if the practice of any of these rights conflicts with cardinal human values then that practice should be immediately curtailed. That is, cardinal human values must take precedence over all other rights. All the constitutions of the world suffer from numerous defects. The above points may be adopted by the framers of different constitutions to overcome these defects. (1)

Reference
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 12, Requirements of an Ideal Constitution

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

Story: how Baba made me victorious

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2023/05/story-how-baba-taught-me-surrender-part.html

Ananda Marga vs dogmas of epic

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2022/04/baba-yudhisthira-dogma-namaskar-in.html

Jurisdiction of microvita

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/01/is-negative-microvita-imaginary-satan-6.html

Key aspects of sadhana

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/08/committed-sadhana-3-more.html

Remarkable story from reporting session

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/08/who-is-your-acarya.html

Misunderstanding / fallacy / confusion about culture

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/09/remaining-oblivious-brings-disunity.html