Animal suffering & rhino tale + 3 more

Baba

Animal suffering & rhino tale

Namaskar, 

Human beings undergo the burning of their samskaras through the psychic pleasure and pain that they feel. Essentially, we experience those reactions in the mind, and those psychic feelings may or may not be accompanied by some type of physical event as well. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


How animals are like inmates

The question then arises: Do animals also burn samskaras by the pain / pleasure they feel in their mind? Here is that pointwise response. 

#1: Animals are not mentally developed; they are not even aware that they exist. And they have no such quality to plan anything or reflect on their condition or existence. 

#2: So no one can say that this or that animal is depressed or sad and is therefore burning some type of samskara. Without the power or capacity of self-reflection, i.e. the ability to consider the state of their own life, they do not burn any samskaras psychically. 

#3: Rather, the burning of their samskara is expressed by being born as an animal. Nothing more is needed. It is just like someone who committed a crime and was sent to jail. Being incarcerated is itself the reaction; those inmates need not be whipped to ensure their jail time is proper or sufficiently difficult. Just being held in that jail cell is enough. And that same is the case for those who are reborn as animals. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Animals feel physical pain

#4: Animals certainly undergo pain in their life, but that pain is purely physical. For instance, if any animal is shivering in the cold, facing a torrential storm, getting bit by a predator, or being physically abused by a human, in all such circumstances those animals feel physical pain. And, as far as possible, we should aim to relieve them of those physical difficulties. So the work those animal rights groups are doing is meaningful. But again, the pain those animals are facing is limited to the physical sphere - not the mental realm. 

#5: One related point to note is that there are many animals who have never been in human form. That’s to say, they were not humans in the past who were reborn as animals in this life; rather, they have reached animal form by rising up from lower beings. In that case, they have yet to create any samskaras. 


Instinctual

#6: In the case of a mother cat and her kittens, when anyone tries to take or attack one of her kittens, the mother has an instinctual urge to protect that kitten. This is nature’s way of ensuring a species survives. Yet when that kitten grows and if that now grown cat tries to take that mama cat’s food, the mama cat will forcefully attack her grown offspring. This demonstrates that the mother’s care for the kitten is purely instinctual. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Conclusion

#7: The overall conclusion is that being reborn as an animal is itself the reaction of one’s past actions, if in fact that animal was a human in their previous life. There is no need for that animal to undergo any further torment or pain than the basic rigours of animal existence. 

In Him,
Satyadeva

Rhino fable in AM

Along these lines, there is a famous story that is often grossly misunderstood. The basic telling of the story is that one rhino came up to Baba with a tear in its eye as that rhino recognized Baba as his childhood friend from its previous life, and that now that rhino was so happy to again see Baba that it had a tear in its eye. This type of account is wholly fallacious. Rhinos, and verily all animals, have no such power of reflection or understanding. They are completely unaware of their plight. 

The only thing we can say is that Baba showered His grace, and the rhino enjoyed being near Baba. The rhino had no knowledge or understanding beyond that. It is just like how a mother expresses great love for her baby so that baby always wants to be near its mother. The baby has no greater understanding of who the mother is and what the mother’s life is about. Just that baby wants its mother’s affection. That is all. Likewise, that rhino had no idea about Baba’s stature etc, only the rhino wanted to be in Baba’s proximity. That is all. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

So then how did this misunderstanding about the rhino story come to be? Generally, humans have the tendency to project their own feelings onto lesser beings. They project their feelings onto infants, dogs, cats, and even rhinos. Those less developed beings are just behaving according to their own instincts. They have no greater logic, reasoning, or plan beyond their own instinctual impulses. Yet, humans project all kinds of feelings and ideas unto those beings. And that is how this rhino fable became so legendary. 


Further reading

Ananda Marga ideology states, "Due to the lack of manifestation of consciousness and intellectual development animals cannot act independently either to progress or regress. So it is through the centripetal action of introvertive Prakrti (Pará-Prakrti) that they develop gradually without any possibility of regression. But those beasts in human form neglect their inherent higher endowments and are thus lower than beasts, for those who abuse what they possess are even lower than those who do not even possess it." (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 5, Matter and Spirit

*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Casting a vote

Here are a few key points related with politics, voting, and governance. 

First Baba guides us that we should not vote at all if the only available candidate(s) is dangerous to the overall well-being of society. 

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Rather than support an [[unworthy]] person, it is better not to exercise one's franchise because to invest an [[unworthy]] person with power means to push society towards destruction knowingly and deliberately." (1)

In His above guideline, Baba is referring to a scenario where at least 50% of the vote is needed to win the election. More about this is explained directly below. 

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “In a democratic system securing the highest number of votes is proof of a person’s eligibility. However this eligibility is not adequately examined in all cases. In my opinion the popularity of a candidate securing the highest number of votes needs to be tested again if he or she polls less than half the total number of votes cast. In this, test arrangements will have to be made so that people can vote either for or against the candidate. If the candidate polls more favourable votes, only then will he or she be declared elected.” (2)

Next Baba guides us that elected officials must live up to their pre-election promises and stated proposals and strategies. Failing that, their election will be negated and they will be removed from office.  

Prout philosophy states, "A candidate must declare his or her policies in black and white. After an election, if it is found that a candidate is acting against his or her declared policies and this is proved to be the case in court, his or her election will be cancelled." (3)

References
1. Caryacarya II, Society, Point #27
2. Problems of the Day, Point #33
3. Problems of the Day, Point #33

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Meaning of Point #1

Guru's teaching is always concise and pointed. What was needed to tell, He has beautifully presented in a clear manner. 

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “After urination, wash the urinary organ with water.” (1)

Baba has given point #1 of Sixteen Points wherein we are to wash the urinary organ with water after urination. And by this way anyone can understand that included in this is the idea of washing the backside after passing stool also. Unfortunately, in most of the so-called advanced societies the general people are only using toilet paper or blotting paper as a means to "clean" themselves after defecation. But this is not proper.

Reference
1. Caryacarya - II, Sixteen Points, Point #1

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

Natural call: keeping clean

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/06/how-to-avoid-incontinence-in-old-age.html

Reply to skeptics: singing His glory

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/10/is-parama-purusa-hungry-for-praise.html
  

Baba’s childhood pledge: obliterate casteism

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/07/baba-story-no-one-is-high-or-low.html

Hilarious scene at DMC

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/12/story-garrulous-announcer-5-more.html

Bhaktas akin to fish in water

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/10/phony-or-true-bhakta.html

When money is tight - what to do + 4 more

Baba

When money is tight - what to do

Namaskar,

Finances are a key issue nowadays. Capitalist exploitation has reached such a height that they not only dictate what is sold, but also how people shop. Their concept of consumerism has reached deep into the human psyche. This entire letter contains real-life scenarios, personal experiences, and one grand Baba story for how to escape the capitalist strategy of pushing everyone into debt.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


One margii wants to take a personal loan

A while back, one sincere margii family was short of the needed amount in order to purchase a large and expensive item for the home. Unsure what to do, the margii consulted one Acarya. The margii was sincere and hoping to become a tattvika in the near future so he did not want to disobey any code or rule. Rather, he abided by Baba's guideline to seek the permission of an acarya before taking a loan or going into debt.

And when he asked, then Acaryaji directly turned down the margii's request. Acaryaji explained that it is not good to take a loan unnecessarily because this is not Baba's system nor our way in Ananda Marga way of life. In Prout, Baba gives open permission for people to go into debt only on the point of constructive industrial production. In contrast, on superficial business affairs or on personal luxury items, best is to avoid taking a loan. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

In response, the margii replied with a second proposal: Ok, I will not borrow money from any bank or outside institution. Instead, I will request one of our Ananda Marga jagrtis or Ananda Marga cooperatives that have the needed capital to transfer the money to me. And, in due course, I will pay it back. But this too was denied.

In this manner, the discussion went gently back and forth. Ultimately, Acaryaji recounted his own personal experiences of watching Baba and told the ensuing Baba story about taking loans. Hearing these experiences and stories, it became clear how to solve the problem.

                                             
Personal experiences with Baba

Acaryaji began: “The following is based on Baba's teachings along with so many reporting sessions which I attended from 1975 to 1990. Taking a loan is completely prohibited; it is against the rules. Baba is very strict that if anybody is found guilty of taking a loan, then they were severely scolded.”

He continued, “I do not know of any occasion when Baba appreciated someone going into debt, or taking loan for any work: relief, or building construction or jagrti, or anything. And, if anybody took a loan then they were scared and did not reveal anything about their loan / debt because of fear of scolding by Baba.”
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Conclusion

Next, Acaryaji shared some further points.

(A) “Under no conditions is it justified to take a loan. As a case in point, here [appended below] is a story of one worker facing an extraordinary situation those days in Ananda Nagar regarding the lawsuit against the communists about those murder charges. The court case was going on and money was needed to save the situation. There was so much urgency. Even then Baba strongly objected to their taking a loan and Baba scolded Dadaji.”

(B) “Given the circumstances what can be more a dire situation for taking loan than this murder case? Yet you see how Baba disapproved. So I think that there should not be any doubt or confusion about Baba's teaching on this policy of incurring debt or taking loan etc.”

(C) “If Baba would have allowed or appreciated taking loans then it would have created the biggest problem or hazard all around. Many Wts who left would have gotten loans and taken the major portion of that money with them when they left the organisation. Then the new Dada posted to that place would have faced the serious problem of paying back the debt which was incurred by his predecessor Dada who left. So in Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha,Baba did not allow any WT to take loan. This is not limited with Wts alone. This rule is for all.”
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Hearing all this the margii got convinced in the core of his heart that he should never unnecessarily incur any loan or debt. And he understood that to make such purchases he should either increase his income or consciously live within his present financial means. In this present era, it is highly important to follow Baba on this matter of incurring loans. Failing that one will have neither financial stability nor mental peace.

Namaskar,
at His lotus feet,
Ramakrishna

Here is a short review:

If someone is really in a terrible situation - such as their house burned down or became drastically flooded - and the government is not helping, then what is to be done? If one cannot take a loan then what is the solution. At that point, those who are friends and well-wishers of the victim can offer financial contributions - not loans, but gifts. That money is not to be paid back. The victim might be in need of and asking for thousands of dollars etc, but those offering financial support must not give beyond their means. When offering their economic gift to the victim, explain your financial situation to the victim, and he will understand and appreciate whatever amount you are able to offer.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


~ In-depth study ~

Baba story about court case and taking loan - 1

Then he told this following BABA story will shed more light on this matter. And he read to us the following as recounted by one Dada.

~ Courtesy of “My Days with Baba” ~

 "I received a lesson I will never forget. We were in Ranchi in 1969. It was then our camp headquarters. I was general secretary and attending a never -ending sessions trial in Midnapur, West Bengal, on the horrific murder of five of our monks (at Anandanagar, 5 March 1967) and a huge amount of money was being drained out of our treasury to pay the ongoing legal costs. Much would depend on the verdict of the court; we were fighting the case heart and soul.  Our funds were almost exhausted, but we were only halfway through the case. I was at my wit's end when an idea occurred to me. One of the mission's departments had deposited about ten thousand rupees in the central treasury. They had planned to buy a car to use for social service. Left with no other way out, I sent a special messenger to Ranchi and fetched that money. We heaved a sigh of relief as we escaped the crisis for the time being.

 The case came to a finish at last. The court sentenced eight of the culprits to life imprisonment and others to rigorous imprisonment for different terms. There was no denying it: the verdict vindicated dharma and demoralized those who had masterminded the heart-rending massacre at Anandanagar.

 A few days later the workers from that department began to urge me to repay their money. I was on the lookout for resources, but my efforts were taking a long time. Eventually Baba heard of the entire affair.

When He came to know of it, He took exception to it. He came to the office that day and called all the central workers of the different departments. He demanded an explanation from me.

Baba story about court case and taking loan - 2

Baba asked, 'Don't you know the policy of our mission about lending and borrowing?'.

'Yes, Baba,' I said.

'If that is so', Baba continued, 'why didn't you get permission from the president (that is, Baba Himself) before siphoning the money from one department to another?'.

'We were in extreme need at the time. I felt we had no other option than taking this loan.  It was an emergency'.

'You ought to have informed the president of that emergency. Moreover, you could have taken the permission of the departmental head before spending the money.'

Baba's displeasure was extreme, and He scolded (see note on feigned anger) me severely for breaking the rules of financial propriety of the organization. My discomfiture was writ large on my face. I admitted my guilt and promised not to do it again in the future.

Decades have passed and much water has passed under the bridge since then, yet even now I can visualize the unrelenting image of that strict administrator - our loving Baba. That scolding is etched into my memory. That lesson has made me stand firmly on my feet and I have never thought again of borrowing money though the mission has scraped through countless difficulties over the years. Want of money was - and is, and always will be - there, but the virtual ban on borrowing has never stalled my work. For that matter I have never had to compromise on principles. His grace has helped me through every time." (Courtesy of “My Days with Baba”)

What to do if one is really in distress

Here is a very short addendum to this topic where one Dada posed the following query to Baba.

Acaryaji, "Sometimes a really good man may fall into trouble and sincerely need help. In that case, what is to be done?"

Baba said, "Instead of lending him money, you should help him according to your capacity. Suppose he is asking for five thousand rupees. Tell him your attitude about lending money and let him know your financial condition. Then help him with an amount that's within your means. It may not be as much as he demands, but he will get consolation that you tried to share his difficulties." (Courtesy of “My Days with Baba”)


Baba's guideline on financial loans

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Not to consult anybody at the time of spending money but to ask for help from all when in debt, is not a good practice. Such a mentality cannot be encouraged. To purchase, by incurring debt...is surely against the principle of aparigraha." (1)

   Ananda Marga philosophy says, "It is often noticed that individuals incur debt because of their violating the principles of Yama and Niyama, especially due to their extravagance – and as a result, they approach the society for relief. In this connection I must point out that just as the society is duty-bound to give relief to individuals by combined efforts, so also it must have control over the conduct of individuals, over their practice of the principles of Yama and Niyama, and also over their expenditure. Not to consult anybody at the time of spending money but to ask for help from all when in debt, is not a good practice. Such a mentality cannot be encouraged.
  Ananda Marga philosophy says, "To purchase, by incurring debt, serge where tweed will do, or gaberdine where serge will do, is surely against the principle of aparigraha. Similarly, people should take food which is nutritious but not rich. They have to give up the practice of feeding others with money taken on loan. That is why social control over the individual’s conduct and expenditure is indispensably necessary. Hence, all Ananda Margis, when they see other Margis acting against the principles of Yama and Niyama, must make them shun this habit either by sweet or harsh words or by dealing even more strictly. Thus they will have to make the society strong. Henceforth I direct every Ananda Margi to keep strict vigilance on other Ananda Margi to make them practise the principles of Yama and Niyama and also to accept calmly directions of other Margis in this connection."
   Ananda Marga philosophy says, "I am also giving one more advice in regard to aparigraha. If any Margis have to spend on anything in addition to the fixed expenditure (for example, expensive clothing, ornaments, articles of furniture, marriage, building, etc.), they should, before incurring such expenditure, obtain a clear order from their ácárya, unit secretary or district secretary, or any other person of responsible rank. Similarly, permission is to be obtained before taking loan from any businessman or money-lender. Where one’s own ácárya or any person of responsible rank is not easily available, consultation or rather permission is to be obtained from any other ácárya, táttvika or any right-thinking member of the Marga. Every member should follow this instruction strictly." (2)

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Arranging the feast by taking a loan or incurring a debt is prohibited." (3)

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "For the celebration of this ceremony the arrangement of a social feast depends entirely on the desire and the financial position of the guardians concerned. Taking a loan or incurring a debt for this purpose is forbidden." (4)


Modus operandi of moneylenders

Here below Baba exposed the modus operandi of moneylenders. This type of scenario can happen to anyone who takes a loan - theirs will be a miserabele fate.

Prout philosophy states, "The exploitation by capitalists and landlords is accompanied by the exploitation by moneylenders. In the rural economy they lend money to the farmers and rural peasants, and are present in nearly every village and hamlet of West Bengal. Where the landlords are not physically present, their loyal agents are very active. The moneylenders have nothing to do with the land – they merely give loans to the poor farmers at high interest. Sometimes poor farmers cannot afford to procure farming implements, hence they are compelled to take loans from the moneylenders. If a moneylender gives one hundred rupees to a farmer, the farmer will have to repay two hundred rupees with interest, but the moneylender does not take back the loan in cash. Instead he realizes the amount in kind in the form of paddy, potatoes, etc., at cheap rates at the time of the harvest. The poor farmer, under the pressure of circumstances, has to accept this unwelcome system. He is a double loser – first, he has to pay more than double the amount of the original loan, and secondly, this amount is paid in kind at the rate of the harvest price of the crop, which is naturally very cheap. This whole process is conducted through agents, who also take their profit. Thus, the peasants and farmers of India are deprived of all their agricultural produce in four to five months of the year to repay the moneylenders, so for the remaining seven to eight months they have to approach the moneylenders again for fresh loans. At first they mortgage their implements, and then they are forced to part with their land. When the amount of the loans with compound interest increases to the point where the interest and the mortgage is equal to the price of their land, the moneylenders confiscate the land of the farmers. Consequently, the farmers get evicted from their land and move from village to village, living on the streets as beggars." (5)


Who can take loans

Here Baba guides us that only businesses can take loans.

Prout philosophy says, "The science of economics teaches that the rolling of money should never be blocked by any sort of non-productive investment. Sometimes people misuse loans to construct an unnecessary building or a new showroom for their business, and thus prevent the possibility of reinvesting the capital and increasing their wealth. Economics teaches that loans taken for business investment should always be utilized for productive purposes, and should never be utilized in any unproductive venture. Foreign loans, for example, should never be invested in constructing large railway stations instead of railway lines." (6)


Note: His feigned anger

Feigned Anger: The Propounder of Ananda Marga, Baba - Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji is the embodiment of dharma. One of the characteristics of a dharmika is akrodha or non-anger. Baba perfectly embodies this quality. Those close to Baba understood that He never became angry. Only He would feign anger or show as if He was angry in order to teach others the severity of a particular situation. For this reason He would express feigned anger. So never can one truly say that Baba was ever furious or mad etc. Just He would display anger externally in order to lovingly guide His bhaktas.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

References
1. Guide to Human Conduct, p.29
2. Guide to Human Conduct, How to Live in Society
3. Carycarya - 1, Marriage Ceremony
4. Carycarya - 1, Infant's Játakarma: The Naming of and First Feeding of Solid Food to an Infant
5. Proutist Economics, Economic Exploitation of Bengal
6. Proutist Economics, Keep Money Rolling – Excerpt A

*        *        *

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 ==

Path of brilliant illumination

"Stabdha ma'navata' ja'galo go ja'galo..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0366)

Purport:

My Parama Purusa, with Your advent, the stunned and dazed humanity has awakened today. Expression has come to its previously dumb mouth. The humankind was sleeping for ages in a deep slumber, submerged in dogma and inertness. The people could not understand what is dharma and adharma, nor could they follow any dos and don'ts or protest against injustices. Now, the human race has become awakened, by Your grace. Those mute persons, who were unable to talk, have gained the courage to speak out against falsehood and injustice, by Your mercy. The call of supreme refulgence has touched every heart and cast away the cimmerian dark staticity of the new moon night. All are dancing in joy.

On this very day let us all collectively move along the path of brilliant illumination. There is no looking back. In the eastern sky, the early coloured sun awakens, and a brand new era is at our doorstep.

The streaks of light have brought the fragrant flowers into full blossom. The yearning for spirituality arouses in the human psyche, eradicating the doldrums of all lethargy, laziness, ennui, and feelings of emptiness within. Those degrading tendencies have disappeared and are nowhere to be found.

Baba, Parama Purusa, with Your advent, everything has been transformed...

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Utter futility of worldly knowledge

Ananda Marga ideology says, "People wish to know everything but the human cranium is small, and the brain even smaller. So how much can one know? Also whatever one learns today one forgets tomorrow. Yes, one who was a Mahámohapádháya, a pandit, would no longer be able to remember the “sabdarupa” of “Nara” if after leaving his or her original occupation he or she became engaged in agricultural work. This is the situation that usually happens. So the main thing is “know all – know one”. What is the use of reading and forgetting so many books? If one reads more books one will forget more things and make more mistakes. So what is the use? No permanent benefit is derived from being a book-worm. I encourage the general education – laokika education – so that people can understand the shallowness of laokika knowledge.” (1)

Note 1: Laokika / worldly knowledge: Anything related with the relative world - i.e. all the facts and figures related with this ever-changing expressed universe whether they be mathematical theories, political treatises. All these things fall within the realm of Laokika / worldly knowledge.

Note 2: In His above divine teaching, Baba guides us that intellectual progress is meaningless in the absence of spirituality. Only self-realisation is the real knowledge. When one does sadhana and studies dharmic scriptures then one realises how intellectual knowledge is completely futile for attaining perfect peace and eternal happiness. Whereas by atma-jinana (self-realisation) one will automatically know the 'ins' and 'outs' of everything. That is why knowing oneself is the real knowledge. Know one, know all.

Note 3: It is not impossible to satiate the heart with worldly knowledge since the human heart can only be satiated with the divine bliss attained through sadhana. But just talking about sadhana the whole day also will not bring eternal peace and happiness; one has to do sadhana. For example memorizing all the facets about sristi cakra (cycle of creation) will not lead to true spiritual realisation. For that one must perform meditation - sadhana.

Final Note: The grand conclusion of Baba's above teaching is that the reason why intellectual knowledge is highly needed is so that one can understand its uselessness and futility.  

Reference
(1) Ananda Vacanamrtam - 6, Self-Realization Is the Real Knowledge

== Section: Important Teaching ==

The beginning & culmination of sadhana

Ananda Marga ideology says, "Whatever a man is to do in his spiritual life he is to do - why? Because he is in love with the Supreme Entity. Love is the first word, love is the starting point, and love is the last point." (1)

Reference

1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 12, The Starting Point and the Last Point

Note: Baba's above guideline is very beneficial for sadhana. However, these days some innocent or simple people just do meditation for "mental peace". And even worse, some Wts do sadhana for show - to pose as someone great. Such Wts hardly do sadhana when they are alone; but when they go to margiis' houses then in grand style they sit in meditation for a long time. All done in order to put themselves on display and create one display that they are highly elevated sadhakas. Certain margiis do a similar thing when they attend retreats. Only by evaluating the ongoing conduct can one understand how far they are really doing sadhana or not. It is just like if you are approaching one animal at night. At first you may think that it is a tiger or a lion, but when that animal makes its weird 'Huan, Huan' sound, then you know that it is just a jackal. Same is the case when being around those types who put on a show of sadhana. By their conduct and dealing they just expose themselves etc.

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Books: Degrading nature of “bestsellers”

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "There is a flagrant dearth of developed critical literature or critical magazines in every country of the world. Books sell in the market on the strength of publicity skills, or on the strength of how they excite the lower human propensities, or in some cases by their crude ability to provide entertainment for the common masses. That is why we find that books published by the authors themselves, regardless of how good they are, do not sell well in the market. On the other hand, books which excite people’s sexuality, whatever might be their content or language, sell extremely well." (1)

Nowadays the benchmark for determining the greatness of a book is the number of copies sold. But this is the wrong measurement because in this era of materialism the masses run to buy those books that excite the lower propensities. Yet, that is not the mark of great literature. Sadly, today's so-called writers have the requisite intellect and talent to write but in order to earn money and maximize sales they inject degrading, perverted themes into their writing. Because that is what enables their books to become "best-sellers." That is the unfortunate and common trend nowadays. So one should be very careful when selecting books. Those titles which have sold the most copies do not represent literature in the proper sense of the term.

Reference

1. A Few Problems Solved - 2, The Practice of Art and Literature

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

Natural call: keeping clean

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/06/how-to-avoid-incontinence-in-old-age.html

Reply to skeptics: singing His glory

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/10/is-parama-purusa-hungry-for-praise.html
  

Baba’s childhood pledge: obliterate casteism

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/07/baba-story-no-one-is-high-or-low.html

Hilarious scene at DMC

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/12/story-garrulous-announcer-5-more.html

Bhaktas akin to fish in water

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/10/phony-or-true-bhakta.html

Naming children - unfortunate trend + 3 more

Baba

Naming children - unfortunate trend

Note 1: This letter is only for those who have reverence for Sadguru Baba Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji and try to follow His Ananda Marga ideology.

Note 2: People can have a nickname but that should connote a spiritual meaning, and not just something meaningless.

Namaskar,

In our Ananda Marga society, we should always be vigilant to use our Saḿskrta names and give our children a Saḿskrta name that carries deep spiritual meaning.


Poor parenting: improper naming of the child

There is a dirty trend to name children after famous athletes, politicians, movie stars etc, but those parents forget that the child may be on this earth for 100 to 135 years and so often that famous athlete or movie star becomes degraded and that name ends up in ignominy. For instance, an actor might get caught up in a drug or prostitution scandal. In India, there was a time when many were even naming their child Saddam Hussein etc.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Another dirty trend these days comes from Hollywood stars. They are giving their children very odd names like "Apple", or "Spice", or "Saturday", or "Peanut Butter" etc. They are selecting bizarre mundane words as names for their kids; and, now the common people have also adopted a similar approach.

Then there are those who - with good intentions - give their kids names that have a negative connotation. For instance, when infant mortality is a distinct threat then certain illiterate villagers give their child a name with a negative meaning so the demons will not be attracted to take the child away. This is their dogmatic and superstitious approach. And if the child survives then it must live the entire life with that name. And in the west - with all good intentions - some kids are given names that also refer to a reproductive organ. But one should not live a life in this way.

As you can see, mass education is needed for naming children. The names given to children are meaningful on many levels, including on the spiritual level. The name has a vibration and meaning in and of itself, and that affects the child. So when names are such an essential element of our life as sadhakas, we should take the opportunity to ensure that all - both inside and outside Ananda Marga - understand the value of giving sentient, spiritual names to their children.


Examples of bad Saḿskrta names

At the same time, we must be aware that not every Saḿskrta name is appropriate, as they do not carry a spiritual meaning. To ensure proper Saḿskrta names are given, Baba has detailed names that are of spiritual value. Every acarya has this list / booklet. Those are the names that are to be used in our Ananda Marga at the time of initiation. But it does not always happen like that.
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Certainly, a large majority of the names in Saḿskrta are appropriate for use in Ananda Marga. Such Saḿskrta names directly refer to Parama Purusa or one of His divine qualities, or some other aspect of spirituality. There are tens of thousands of names of this nature. However, there are also many Saḿskrta names that fail to reach our standard for naming in Ananda Marga. Names like Brinjal (eggplant) or various Saḿskrta derived names meaning rice, chili, and other food items are not our ideal. Yet these Saḿskrta names are used in the general society and, on occasion, also sneak into our Ananda Marga.

Plus various names such as the highly popular surname Singha, meaning lion, are based on the animals. Yet we know that according to the cycle of brahmacakra, human life is the veritable movement away from our baser animalistic vrittis towards our inherent sublime nature, i.e. life divine. So there is no value - rather it is detrimental - to have a Saḿskrta name that refers to an animal. This is also a point of caution.

Finally, there are some Saḿskrta names for boys like Kat’u (bitter), Kalmas’a (dirty) Kapat’ii (hypocrite) that are not up to the proper standard. Similarly, there are some girls' names like Mithya’ (false), Asmita’ (false ego)  and Savita (father) that are also inappropriate. Another phenomenon, in India, they have begun giving Saḿskrta names that are actually verbs or adjectives, not nouns. One such name is “Chalati”, which is a verb meaning "to go". People choose such names because they feel they are unique. That is also the new and dirty trend.


Bad trend: non-spiritual nicknames

Another key facet of this discussion is the use of nicknames. All too often family members or close friends give nicknames to their close people. Normally these nicknames are given when people are very young, such as when we are 4 or 5 years old, or during student life. You have all heard them - names like Pinky, Rinky, Tee-tee, Lulu, Bessy, Beansie etc. Often these names rhyme with one’s legal or formal name or are given for just some silly reason, albeit with good intention.
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Another key facet of this discussion is the use of nicknames. All too often family members or good friends give nicknames to their close people. Normally, these nicknames are given when people are very young, such as when they are 4 or 5 years old, or during their student life. You have heard them - names like Pinky, Rinky, Tee-tee, Lulu, Bessy, Beansie etc. Often these names are given with good intention, but it should be borne in mind that a nickname should be made on the basis of the full Saḿskrta name. That means the nickname will start with the same letter as a full Sanskrit name. If the full name is longer, it is difficult for the parents to always call their child by that longer name so a nickname can be made, but the first letter of the nickname should be the same as the first letter of their full Sanskrit name. For example, if someone's name is Nitya-nirainjana, the nickname could be simply Nitya or something similar to this starting with an “n”. Likewise, if someone's name is Prdyuman-narayana, the nickname could be Prema or something similar to this starting with a “p”.

Baba has also described that in India nearly 90% of the population has been given Saḿskrta names - including Muslims and Christians living in India. Baba has told that, in general, Saḿskrta names are sonorous and ear-pleasing. As Ananda Margiis, we are to help ensure those Saḿskrta names carry a proper spiritual meaning. In that light, the family members should make a nickname on the basis of the full spiritual meaning of that name. Moreover, the use of that nickname should be kept within the family. And the full name will be used for all official dealings such as on the birth certificate and other governmental documentation etc, as well as with all schools, colleges, worldly dealings, and also throughout the neighborhood etc

Why Deva & not Kumar as 2nd name

Finally, there are two other common words to discuss associated with naming. The first is Kumar and the second is Deva. At present, many in Ananda Marga attach Kumar to their name. Names like Krsna Kumar, Jayanta Kumar, Chandranath Kumar are quite common etc. Yet Kumar (kaoma'ra) refers to that state of life when one is immature.
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Ananda Marga ideology says, "Childhood, or kaoma'ra." (1)

In those early years of life, children needlessly break and destroy their toys for no apparent reason and constantly switch from one task to the next, unable to concentrate on anything for any period of time. That is what kaomara means: the life of a child when all kinds of silly or senseless things are done.

Here the intent is not to criticise children - they have their natural dharma. Childhood is part of the growing process. Only the point is that we should not attach that idea or identity with our Saḿskrta name by adding the suffix Kumar. That is not our Ananda Marga system - that is some folk manner from the traditions of old. The only term to append to our Saḿskrta name is Deva.

Ananda Marga ideology says, "Now, the word “deva” comes from the root word “div”. “Div” means “a divine existence”. So “deva” means “a divine existence”." (2)

Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "The word deva should be suffixed to the name. Every person is at liberty to use his/her own surname, but the more the usage of deva as a title, the better it is." (3)

So we should link our Saḿskrta names with Deva, not Kumar.


Why shy to use Saḿskrta names in the west

Baba tells that those not established on the path of spirituality are shy to practice in front of others.
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Ananda Marga ideology says, "Those who are reared in the cradle of materialistic ideologies, feel shy or ashamed at first to sit in meditation in the presence of others." (4)

Those who lack a deeper sense of deep spiritual feeling feel shy to present themselves as an Ananda Margiis, and most of the time they do not like to tell or use their own Saḿskrta name - or the Saḿskrta names of others. They suffer from a distinct weakness of the mind and lack of proper moral strength. That is why we say that they are half-margiis. We should help instill within them the requisite strength, courage, and confidence to use their Saḿskrta name.


Why always use proper Saḿskrta names

When a proper Saḿskrta name is given that that brings all kinds of beauty in life: Both to the individual and the society. It reminds us of the eternal presence of Parama Purusa and keeps us ever-focused on the divine nature of human life. When we seek names for our own children we should keep in mind all of the above. Then their names will serve them well for their entire life. Bhaktas can easily understand these points - others may not.
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We should be vigilant to ensure that only proper Saḿskrta names are used in our units and that we use these Saḿskrta names in all circumstances and conditions. Those who are unable to practice this approach are just half-margiis.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "If Sam'skrta is used human unity will be encouraged and human beings will move closer together." (5)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Prakash Deva
(Paul Marshall)

~ In-depth study ~

Names & half-margiis

When Baba held DMC in our Berlin Sector, then Baba is emphasizing the importance of Saḿskrta names. Time and again He beautifully explained the meaning of various names and on multiple occasions Baba also corrected the then PA Dada Ramanandaji's pronunciation of Saḿskrta / Samskrta  names, or even changed the name itself to one having a spiritual meaning.
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Story how Baba blesses

During one DMC we held our usual kaoshikii and tandava contests and when Dada Ramananda ji called out the names of those involved then he announced the name of one sister - Ama'vati.

Immediately, Baba pointed out that this name meant 'darkness' or 'new moon'. Then and there, in front of one and all, Baba lovingly told that her name should be Jyotismati, meaning 'divine effulgence'. In that special way our sister took on this new name - one with a truly spiritual meaning.

Certainly this was Baba's blessing upon that sister and the society. The overall idea is that Baba gives great emphasis on the proper use of Saḿskrta names, both with respect to pronunciation and meaning.
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Spiritual reminders

A name then is not just a word per se. It is an important reminder to both the named and the person addressing that individual that we live in a God-centered universe. This helps spiritualise one's daily life experience and reminds us of our Goal. Thus, not any name will do - names should be given based on this spiritual ideal.

Note 1: Around the world there are social clubs called, “The Lions Club” etc. But this is not appropriate. We should not associate human beings or groups of human beings with animals. That is not a dignified approach. Names and references to human beings should always carry a spiritual meaning.
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Note 2: We should ensure that our Saḿskrta names are of proper meaning. If you have any doubt, the best option is to simply go online and see what the meaning is. There are numerous Saḿskrta websites that may be useful. Then another option is to consult your local acarya about the meaning of the name.

References
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 21, Jaeva Dharma and Bhágavata Dharma
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3, Saḿgacchadhvaḿ
3. Caryacarya - 1, The Process of initiation
4. Subhasita Samgraha - 3, Supreme Benevolence and Mundane Pleasure
5. Prout in a Nutshell - 17, The Significance of Language

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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.

*        *        *

== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Greatest quality, worst tendency

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "It is the sense of duty that causes one person to renounce everything; and it is the sense of duty that inspires another person to readily accept the burden of caring for his or her family. It is the sense of duty that makes a person great. Of all bonds, the bond of duty is the strongest, and the bond of moha [blind attachment or infatuation] is the worst. Humanity will have to break the bonds of moha and increase the bonds of duty willingly and consciously. This is the law." (1)

Reference
1. Namámi Krśńasundaram, Disc: 13

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Quiz: Who makes this type of claim

Kindly read the below quote from Baba's teachings. At the end of the quote a question has been posed. If your answer to the question is correct then it means you read Baba's books carefully; and, if your answer is wrong or you do not know the answer, then it signifies that you need to pay more attention when reading Guru's teachings. After all, if sadhakas are not diligent in studying Baba's books then who is going to read them - non-margiis?

Ananda Marga ideology states, “Those who profess a faith claiming to be the last word from the last prophet follow an incorrect line. Prout [Progressive Utilization Theory] philosophy is ahead of such philosophies and faiths. As is stated in its fifth principle, it is a philosophy which not only sets its goal as the ultimate subjectivity (Brahma, who is unchangeable and eternal), but also adopts the objective course of adjustment according to time, space and person.” (1)

Question: Who is Baba referring to in the yellow highlighted section?

(For the answer scroll down below the links section at the very bottom of this email.)

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 33, Sálokya, Sámiipya, Sáyujya, Sárúpya, Sárśt́hi

Answer: 
In the above quiz, in the yellow highlighted section Sadguru Baba is talking about - the Semitic religions. They preach this type of dogma.

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

Baba’s childhood pledge: obliterate casteism

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/07/baba-story-no-one-is-high-or-low.html

Hilarious scene at DMC

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/12/story-garrulous-announcer-5-more.html

Bhaktas akin to fish in water

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/10/phony-or-true-bhakta.html

Best time to teach dharma

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/02/how-through-primary-schools-masses.html

Story: kiirtana saved us

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/06/story-kiirtan-and-flooded-river-5-more.html