Ananda Marga vs dogmas of epic + 3 more

Baba

Ananda Marga vs dogmas of epic

Namaskar,

In Ananda Marga, we all know that Baba graciously guides us that spiritual attainment is one beautiful and blissful process whereby one actively directs their mind towards God - wherein all the mental propensities are channelised towards Parama Purusa. And in Ananda Sutram Baba gives this eternal truth.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Brhades'an'a'pran'idha'nam' ca dharmah 

“Meaning: To long for and run after the Great is dharma.”

"When knowingly one tries to attain the Great...that bearing is called dharma, and the effort involved is called dharma sadhana." (1)

Hence to get success, longing for the Great is needed. Otherwise - without desire - how can one get Parama Purusa. The key point is properly channelising or goading one's mental desires towards God. Thus desire is one integral and important ingredient for attaining Parama Purusa.

Dogma #1: misguided way to deal with desire

However, Yudhis'thira is recommending a defective vision that one should completely rid the mind of desires.

The Yaksha asked: "What is that, by giving up which, man becomes rich?"
Yudhishthira replied: "Desire, getting rid of it, man becomes wealthy."

So Yudhis'thira's reply is not proper. Rather his answer is similar to the dogma of Buddhism where they try to empty the mind and remove all the desires. But this just hinders one's ability to progress. In numerous places Baba says attempting to rid the mind of desires is impractical.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Sarvacintá parityágo nishcinto yoga ucyate [“When the mind is completely free of thoughts, when the mind is completely thought-less, that state of mind is called yoga”] – from the standpoint of applied psychology, such an idea is defective." (2)

The whole point being that true wealth - spiritual wealth - is not a result of getting rid of one's desire but rather a result of channelising one's desire to the Supreme.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "You must withdraw your mental propensities from all external objects – no matter what they might be – and channelize them only towards Parama Puruśa." (3)

That's why in Ananda Marga we do not try to empty the mind, instead our way is to fully aim the mind in pin-pointed fashion towards Parama Purusa Baba.

Dogma #2: females confined to house - always

In this next point, Yudhis'thira is putting forth one view about females that they should always stay at home. But in Ananda Marga we do not subscribe to such ideas.

Rather, in all the spheres of life - from the right to do spiritual practices to the right to pursue professional employment opportunities - in dharmic fashion Baba provides all the rights and privileges to females as well as males. With regards to gender issues, Baba has created perfect balance, opportunity, and harmony, considering the strengths and needs of everyone.

In particular on the point of working in society, Baba encourages females to engage in employment outside the house.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Women may find employment in...government service, business, etc., outside the home. No one should be conservative or superstitious in this regard." (4)

Thus, the stand of Ananda Marga is very clear: Women have the opportunity and right to seek out professional employment in society.  
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Yet Yudhis'thira is giving one dogmatic reply that females have no role on this earth except to remain at home - confined in the house.

The Yaksha asked: "Who is the friend of one who stays at home?"
Yudhishthira replied: "The wife."

So by Yudhis'thira's reply it is clear that he is telling that females should never leave the house. But this is not appropriate for today’s modern humanity.  So this notion that women are to be bound to the house is completely against the teachings of Ananda Marga.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Women may find employment in...government service, business, etc., outside the home. No one should be conservative or superstitious in this regard." (5)

Dogma #3: wrong equation for happiness

In this section we examine another from Yudhis'thira's teachings whereby he gives one view of happiness.

Here first though is Baba's dharmic guideline:

Sutra 2-3 "Sukhamanantama'nandam" (6)

In the above su'tra, Baba is guiding us that human desires are infinite and that the only way to satiate one's desires is by the attainment of Parama Purusa. That alone leads to real happiness. Because the divine love of Parama Purusa is  limitless and can therefore satisfy human's infinite desires and longing. In contrast, running after limited objects will not work. That will not give real happiness. True happiness can only occur when one search is towards God.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

However, Yudhis'thira is giving one incomplete reply that leads in the wrong direction.

The Yaksha asked: "What is happiness?"
Yudhishthira replied: "Happiness is the result of good conduct."

So Yudhis'thira's reply is not aligned with our Ananda Marga principles because there are numerous atheistic people and ritualistic worshipers who may have good conduct but they will never be truly happy. Because true happiness or bliss only comes from a God-centred existence and the attainment of Parama Purusa.

Conclusion

The Mahabharata epic is full of fanciful tales, mythological events, and dogmatic replies that run wholly counter to dharma and the teachings of Ananda Marga. So one should be cent per cent careful when hearing the words of Yudhisthira or others from this epic, and not think they are automatically aligned with AM ideology. Remember, Sadguru Baba’s teachings of AM are wholly unique. 
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Ananda Marga is a revolution. It is not only a spiritual revolution but also an economic, social and mental revolution. The economic system, the social structure, the trend of thinking, and the spiritual practices prescribed in our Ananda Marga are not only new but something quite different from the established ideas and practices in these spheres of life." (7)

In Him,
Nis’t’ha’

References
1. A'nanda Su'tram, 2 - 6
2. Discourses on Krsna and the Gita, “Prańipátena Pariprashnena Sevayá” – 2
3. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 7, The True Nature of Bhakti
4. Caryacarya - 1, The Livelihood of Women
5. Caryacarya - 1, The Livelihood of Women
6. A'nanda Su'tram, 2 - 3
7. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Ananda Marga – A Revolution

*        *        *

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 ==

Blissful pain in my heart

PS Intro: This following song is not a very common type of Prabhat Samgiita. In this song, the scene unfolds wherein Parama Purusa is sitting listlessly in the flower garden all by Himself, and the bhakta is trying in many ways to attract His attention. So Parama Purusa is just playing His liila because although He knows everything, here He is pretending as if He is unaware that the bhakta is close by. This type of liila is displayed in this following song.

"Tomáre dekhechi jabe cámpár vane takhan pápaŕi d́háká madhu chilo..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0531)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, the day when I saw You in the campa’ flower garden, that time also the flower's honey vessels were covered by its petals. Underneath the flower petals, there was an accumulation of nectar. I looked toward You with my eyes full of great longing, expectation, and anticipation; but, that was all in vain because You did not respond to me in that hour. One thing is beyond my understanding: Why were You just sitting there listlessly in that flower garden - You did not seem to notice me at all.

O’ Supreme Entity, in various ways I tried to attract Your attention. When I came into the garden I intentionally placed my foot on some dry, crunchy leaves hoping that by that sound You would hear me and wonder, “Who has come, who is here.” Yet, alas, You did not pay any heed. Even though You were not looking towards me, still You were pulling my heart very strongly by the string of bhakti. In spite of Your playful indifference, in my heart the lamp of hope was still glittering. I was keeping the feeling alive within me that Your liila will change and You will kindly look towards me.    

So again I tried to attract Your attention. This time my heart was filled with fear and shyness; I could not gather the courage to go directly in front of You. So I just continued moving from a distance with gentle steps looking towards You with sincere longing and yearning. Slowly, slowly - from time to time -  I was staring at You with anxious and hopeful eyes, hoping that at least You will bless me by looking towards me and calling me closer to You. Alas, all my wishes and dreams were in vain. That day I understood how Your liila generates a blissful pain in my heart.     

O’ Parama Purusa Baba, even then  I continued on with the idea that this liila will end soon, and You will look towards me. That moment the whole atmosphere was charged with the sweet aroma of all those blossoms in the garden. Baba, Your liila is unfathomable. Although You did not look towards me that time, deep within my core I felt that You are more close than ever. Baba, You graciously pulled my entire existence towards You with the invisible flow of bhakti and tied me in the bond of Your supreme love...

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

About conjugal relations

In His below teaching, Baba is discussing the history of marriage and guides us that marital relations are between a male and a female. Baba does not mention any other type of arrangement, such as relations between the same sex, either female and female or male and male. Thus, no Ananda Margii should get swept up in the wave of same sex marriage that is happening in the west. Every Ananda Marga should hold firm to Guru’s teachings and adhere to the dharmic tenet that marriage is between a man and a woman. 

Ananda Marga ideology states, “To slay the disarmed, to slaughter women, children or old people, to murder those who had surrendered or to kill those running away for their lives from a fight went against the grain of kśatriya conscience. In essence, the valour of the kśatriyas was instrumental in their surpassing the animal stratum as they learnt to understand human values. It was this sense of values that raised conjugal and domestic life to human standard to a great extent. Instead of conjugal relations being limited to the status of enjoyer and the enjoyed, they began to contain a sense of duty. With the establishment of conjugal relationships a sense of duty awakened in the father towards his children. Consequently, as soon as the responsibilities of mothers lessened to some extent, women became dependent on men for their food and clothes, particularly during the period of pregnancy and during the post-delivery period. As a result, married couples, though belonging to the same group, began to emerge in previously male-centred households. As families were male-centred, male-dominated groups became evident and clan mothers lost their previous authority.” (1)

Reference
1. Human Society - 2, Kśatriya Age

== Section 4: Links ==

Postings to Read

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

Jurisdiction of microvita + 5 more

Baba

Jurisdiction of microvita

Namaskar, 

There are some in AMPS who wrongly think that microvita operates independently of Parama Purusa and interferes with each and every action - as if nothing can be done without the approval or support of microvita. They wrongly conclude that microvita imposes its will on the life of each and every sadhaka.

Taking it even one step further, a few wrongly believe that they can even be cursed or tortured by negative microvita. For them, negative microvita acts as a type of  independent Satan. These confused sadhakas feel that microvita helps, interferes, and harms people in all kinds of ways, independently of Parama Purusa. They attribute everything to microvita - either positive microvita or negative microvita.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Then there are bhaktas who feel that Parama Purusa is doing everything. For them, there is no intermediary force between themselves and Parama Purusa. They feel in their heart that Parama Purusa is the sole controller and everything is His liila. Such bhaktas feel that only His grace is needed; and, that is positive microvita. And indeed that is what Ananda Marga philosophy teaches us. Microvita dances according to the desire and sweet will of Parama Purus'a.

Ananda Marga is for anyone ready to practise

In Ananda Marga, there are all types of sadhakas; people of all walks of life come onto the path. That is why Baba has given a diverse range of teachings to help people with all kinds of samskaras. Some are attracted to certain aspects of Baba's teachings and others are interested in different aspects of our Ananda Marga way of life. It all depends upon one's mindset.

For instance, some like to study abstruse elements of Ananda Marga philosophy like the book "Idea & Ideology", while others are more interested in doing kiirtan, bhajans, and sadhana. Some are attracted towards the more intellectually challenging parts of Ananda Marga ideology while others have almost no interest in philosophy and spend their time in social service and spiritual pursuits.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

In our human society there are people in all stages of human evolution, and Ananda Marga ideology covers this entire range. In a phrase, there is something for everyone.

For those who have great interest in microvita theory and other difficult topics, they may view everything according to the existence of microvita - but they should be careful not to start viewing negative microvita as a type of Satan. Because microvita dances according to the desire of Parama Purus'a. Those who are more inclined towards simple concepts on bhakti, Baba has told them that microvita is nothing but His grace.

Term "positive microvitum to make you laugh"

Indeed that is why in His 1988 discourse, Propensities and Pramá, Baba spoke in the original Hindi. Here is the English summary: 

That which I call "positive microvitum", in reality what is it? Nothing but the grace of Parama Purus'a. I use the term "positive microvitum" to make you laugh.

So it is very clear that positive microvita is nothing but the grace of Parama Purus'a. We should all keep in mind that Baba is the controller of all microvita. His divine grace is everything.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Conclusion

There are three fundamental points to keep in mind:
(a) Negative microvita is not any type of imaginary Satan.
(b) Negative microvita cannot act independently of Parama Purusa.
(c) Positive microvita is nothing but the grace of Parama Purusa. 

Namaskar,
in Him,
Nityaniranjan
(Nathan Armstrong)

Note: A link to Baba’s original sound file about "What is Microvita" has been appended below. 

Our Ananda Marga teachings are for all, and here Baba explains the meaning of positive microvita to those who are more inclined towards bhakti than jinana. 


Microvita is not independent of Parama Purusa

Our Ananda Marga teachings are for all, and in His above guideline Baba explains the meaning of positive microvita to those who are more inclined towards bhakti than jinana. And naturally, in other places, Baba has addressed the topic of microvita in ways that are more suited towards those with a jinani mentality.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Sound file about microvita

• https://archive.org/details/PropensitiesPramaHINDIclipWhatIsPositiveMV
  

References
Propensities and Pramá, 1 January 1988 DMC, Ananda Nagar

*        *        *

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

"Vishva'tiit vishvag tumi, tabu keno khunje mari ha'y..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0281)

Purport:

Parama Purusa, You are both beyond and within this entire universe. Even then why do I desperately search for You externally. Baba, I do not understand Your liila. Despite my awareness about Your eternal omnipresence, I go on seeking You outwardly - in all the nooks and corners. I cry in longing to get You. By Your grace, in the vast sky, in the air, water, and in the fire - in each entity a spiritual vibration is generated.

Baba, You are the source and inspiration of everything. All the beauty and glories of this entire creation are due to Your grace. By thinking about Your grand play I am divinely intoxicated and ensconced in Your love. When I think about Your vastness and greatness I lose myself in Your ideation.

Parama Purusa, You are ever-awake in the deep corner of all hearts, every moment, always. In spite of knowing that You are all-pervading, most of my days get wasted unnecessarily in seeking You in the mundane world. I lost so much time looking for You outside meaninglessly.

Baba, when I aim to find You within, by Your grace I feel that You are always sitting in my mind, smiling...

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

About the stage of ekendriya

   Ananda Marga ideology states, “एकेन्द्रिय :- अनाहत-चक्र cross कर जाने से मन में किस प्रकार का परिवर्तन आ जाता है ? किसी particular ग्रन्थि, particular वृत्ति, particular इन्द्रिय पर control आ गया, मगर और-किसी वृत्ति वा ग्रन्थि वा इन्द्रिय पर control नहीं आया—इसको कहते हैं ‘एकेन्द्रिय’; यह third stage है । 
   [उदाहरणार्थ] “लोभ एक दम नहीं है, कभी एक पैसा घूस नहीं लेता है, किन्तु बहुत क्रोधी है ।” “क्रोध नहीं है, बहुत कामुक है ।” अर्थात्‌ एक वृत्ति नहीं है, एक वृत्ति ख़ूब है—यह है, एकेन्द्रिय । अथवा “घूस भी नहीं लेता है, बहुत सज्जन है, किन्तु मद्द है, अहङ्कारी है, घमण्डी है”—ऐसा तुम लोग देखोगे । तो यह है एकेन्द्रिय ।” (1)

Here is an English summary of Baba’s above Hindi teaching where He is giving the following ideas.

Ekendriya: What kind of change comes in the mind after crossing the anahata cakra? When a particular cakra, a particular instinct, a particular indriya, is controlled, but no other instinct, or cakra, or indriya, is controlled – this is called ekendriya; this is the third stage. For example: “He is not greedy at all and never takes a penny as bribe, but he is very short-tempered.” Or, “He is not short-tempered, but very lustful.” That is, there is control of just one instinct, while other instincts are very much active – this is ekendriya. Or, “He does not take bribes, is very gentle, but is arrogant, egoistic, and full of vanity” – you will see this in society. This is ekendriya. (English summary)

Note: In the stage of ekendriya, the person has one instinct well-controlled, while all of the other indriyas (motor / sensory organs) and / or instincts are not properly controlled. Rather, the person is prone to indulgence in those other arenas. 

Reference
1. Subhasita Samgraha Hindi, Part 28 (Pure), chapter साधक और साधना / Sadhaka and Sadhana, PD #14

== Section: Bangla Quote ==

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)

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

== Section: Prabhat Samgiita ==

बाबा, हे  प्रभु! अपने लीला छल में मुझे क्यों भुलाये हो? तुम मुझे दर्शन दो। 

प्रभात संगीत  "Prabhu toma'r liila'r chale, keno rakho more bhuliye..." (PS #354)

(जो मन लगाकर साधना का 6th पाठ नहीं करता, वह यह प्रभात संगीत नहीं समझ सकता )

बाबा, हे  प्रभु! अपने लीला छल में मुझे क्यों भुलाये हो? मैंने अबतक तुम्हारी लीला बहुत देख ली, अब तो मैं स्वयं लीलामय को ही देखना चाहता हॅूं। इस लुका छिपी के खेल में तुम अपने को दूर ही बनाये हुए हो? हे  प्रभु! तुम अपनी दिव्य लीला करके दूर क्यों बने हुए  हो, पास क्यों नहीं आ रहे हो?

हे परमपुरुष! मेरा हृदय तुमको ही चाहता है और मेरा मन तुम्हारे गुलाबी पदतलों में लोटना चाहता है। बाबा! मेरा पूरा अस्तित्व तुम्हारे लिये ही समर्पित है। मैं तो तुम्हारी सभी इच्छाओं की पूर्ति करना चाहता हॅूं, मुझे अपना यन्त्र बनाकर, अपने हाथों से उसका उपयोग कीजिये। बस, अपनी इच्छाओं के अनुकूल अपने  कार्य कराने के लिये मुझे माध्यम बना लीजिये।

बाबा, दिन आ रहे हैं ,जा रहे हैं, पर मेरा अब तक का सब समय सिर्फ  खाने पीने और वृथा, सोने में ही नष्ट हुआ है। इस प्रकार मेरा जीवन उचित काम में प्रयुक्त नहीं हो पाया है। मैं न तो साधना ही कर सका और न ही समाज सेवा, मेरा जीवन बस यों ही अज्ञानता में निकलता चला जा रहा है।

हे  प्रभु! अपने लीला छल में मुझे क्यों भुलाये हो? तुम मुझे अपने शरण में ले लो।

Note: If you would like the audio file of the above Prabhat Samgiita kindly write us.

== Section: Holy Teaching ==

"आदर्श के लिए मैं सब कुछ करूँगा—जीना, मरना, मेरे लिए समान है" 

Here is an "as is" transcript of Baba's unique discourse that we should be fanatical in adhering to the tenets of Ananda Marga ideology.

बीस शास्त्र में पण्डित बनने से, महामहोपाध्याय बनने से परमपुरुष को कोई नहीं पाता है । अपढ़ जो क-ख, अलिफ़-बे-पे-ते, नहीं जानता है, वह परमपुरुष को पा जाता है ।

दुनिया का सम्पद कौन :- तो इसके लिए जानते हो, हर कर्म के लिए एक ज़िद की ज़रूरत होती है । अच्छे कर्म के लिए भी, ख़राब के लिए भी । ख़राब कर्म के लिए जिनके मन में ज़िद रहती है, वे दुनिया के लिए भयङ्कर मनुष्य बन जाते हैं, terror बन जाते हैं । ठीक वैसा ही अच्छे कर्म के लिए ज़िद है, तो वे दुनिया के सम्पद बन जाते हैं । उनकी तरक्की कोई रोक नहीं सकता है । तो परमपुरुष की प्राप्ति के लिए भी, इसी तरह की एक ज़िद रहनी चाहिए, “मैं अवश्य पाऊँगा, पाकर रहूँगा"—काम हो जाएगा । तो यह ज़िद, ज़िद चाहिए । तो यह एक प्रकार का spiritual fanaticism है, not religious fanaticism.

द्विविधा में क्या करें :- Religious fanaticism ख़राब है, group बनता है । Spiritual fanaticism—"आदर्श के लिए मैं सब कुछ करूँगा; जीना, मरना, मेरे लिए समान है । मेरे लिए सबसे क़ीमती चीज़ है आदर्श ।" तो यही याद रखोगे कि इस तरह की एक ज़िद की ज़रूरत है । जो ‘अ’ भी होता है, ‘ऐ’ भी होता है; आगे भी चल सकते हैं, पीछे भी चल सकते हैं; खाएँ या नहीं खाएँ; करें या नहीं करें—इस प्रकार के द्विविधा-ग्रस्त जो मनुष्य है, उनसे बड़ा काम नहीं होता है । जीवन के किसी भी क्षेत्र में द्विविधा नहीं हो, किसी भी क्षेत्र में द्विविधा नहीं हो । जहाँ द्विविधा मन में आ गई, एक को रखो, दूसरे को लात मारकर हटा दो । दो भावनाएँ जहाँ मन में हैं, एक भावना को पकड़कर रखो, उसके लिए मरो; और दूसरी भावना जो है, या तीसरी या चौथी—लात मारकर जीवन की राह से हटा दो ।

समझे तुम लोग ?

[भक्त गण—"जी बाबा !”]

इसी तरह का कट्टर मनुष्य बनो, पक्का मनुष्य बनो । कहा गया है न कि मनुष्य-जीवन में एक व्रत, वह व्रत क्या है ? परमपुरुष की प्राप्ति, कोई दूसरा व्रत नहीं है जीवन में । व्रत एक ही है और वह है महाव्रत अर्थात्‌ परमपुरुष को पाना । “यही है जीवन का व्रत, और कुछ मैं नहीं जानता हूँ ।“ तो इसके लिए वही बोले हैं कि एक रुहानी कट्टरपनी की ज़रूरत होती है । परमात्मा goal, परमपुरुष मेरा लक्ष्य है, कोई दूसरा लक्ष्य नहीं है । परमपुरुष को हम address करेंगे एक ही शब्द से, दो शब्द से नहीं ।

Why fanaticism for rational ideas is very good

Here is the English summary:

One who claims to be a pandit (scholar) in twenty shastras (scriptures) and is Mahamahopaddhyay (i.e.highest degree of scholarship like D. Lit.) can never realize Parama Purusa (God), but an illiterate man who does not know even the alphabet ka, kh, (in Hindi) or alif, be, pe, te (in Urdu) can get Him.

So, for this, and you know, every work needs determination, not only good works but bad also. Those who are determined to do bad work become dangerous and create terror for the world. In contrast, those who are determined to do good work become treasures for the world; no one can prevent their progress. Hence, there should also be a determination to attain Parama Purusa: "I will get Him, certainly I will get Him," like this you will get success. So, one should have this type of determination, this is a type of spiritual fanaticism, not religious fanaticism. Religious fanaticism is bad as it leads to the formation of groups. Spiritual fanaticism (teaches), "I will do everything for the sake of ideology. Whether I live or to die for my ideology, it is the same to me. The most precious thing for me is my ideology." So, remember, only this type of determination is necessary.

This way is ok and that way is also ok, I can go forward or backward." Those who think, "Whether I should eat or not, I should do this work or not," are always doubtful. They cannot do great work. There should not be any doubt in life, no doubt at all in any field. If at any time, there is hesitation in the mind, keep one idea and remove the other by kicking it away.

[Margiis: "Baba...Baba...Baba..."]

When there are two ideas in the mind, hold onto only one and be ready to die for it. Regarding the second, third, or fourth ideas, kick and remove them from the path of your life. Do you follow?

[Margiis: "Yes."]

Become determined and strong people like this. It is said, There is only one vow of human life, and that is to get Parama Purusa. There is no other vow. The vow is only one, the great vow - to get Parama Purusa. This is the vow of life: I do not know anything else. Therefore, for this I have expressed the need for a type of spiritual fanaticism. My aim is Paramatma, my goal is Parama Purusa - not anything else. I will address Parama Purusa by a single word not two.

Note: If your doctor doing surgery is not strict in following the medical codes, conduct, and protocol then will you like to go to him for open heart surgery. Because that doctor is sloppy - and not fanatical about following all the guidelines. So you will not use that doctor as you want a doctor who is fanatical in his medical work - very accurate and strict. That is the type of fanaticism needed in Ananda Marga also. Because Ananda Marga is rational. Since the followers of Ananda Marga are very strict in rational ideas then the society at large will greatly benefited.

(English summary of Ananda Vacanamrtam Part-24, chapter 2 (Pure), Hindi, Adhyamatic Kattarta Chahie, General Darshan, 30 December 1970 Patna)

== Section 4: Links ==

Postings to Read

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

Harmful to spiritual flow

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/06/way-to-ravage-ones-sadhana.html

Important to avoid this comparison

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/12/wrong-comparison.html

Key aspects of sadhana + 4 more

Baba

Key aspects of sadhana

Namaskar,

Sadhana is the mainstay in the life of each and every human. It is an integral part of one’s existence. At the same time, we all know that progress in meditation is systaltic: It moves through periods of speed and pause - sometimes smooth and sometimes difficult. It is a constant endeavour for each and every sadhaka to become more involved in their sadhana. This requires both sincerity of heart and dedication to the spiritual ideal as given by Baba. In that case, every sadhaka can deepen their spiritual practices, by His krpa’.

The points expressed herein do not pertain to those just doing 5-10 minutes of sadhana prior to taking food. The ideas expressed in this letter are related to those deeply committed to sadhana who allot a proper amount of time to their practice on a daily basis. In this regard, during holidays and vacations etc, all should try to spend more time focused on sadhana. Great people have a focused mind and commit maximum time for sadhana.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

When one does their sadhana properly then a certain sweet vibration is generated. A distinctive blissful energy sweeps through the body and permeates the mind and the aspirant becomes spiritually intoxicated in bliss. And this vibration itself is a positive sign that one’s meditation is on the right course.


Practical spiritual science: step by step

From a more introversive perspective, we can say that there are particular stages of our iishvara pranidhana sadhana which represent how the aforementioned sentient vibration results. In iishvara pranidhana, initially, by Baba's blessing and with our iccha shakti (will power), a strong desire arises to get the Cosmic Entity. In result, the mind gets concentrated. Then step by step the next stages unfold. A sense of surrender is cultivated and with that intimate feeling and yearning, combined with bhakti, one begins their mantra japa - mantra repetition. As the practice of mantra japa with bhakti continues, then mantra'ghat occurs. That is, the mantra strikes on the kulakundalini and the kundalini begins to rise up. This causes a wave of sentient blissful feelings to spread throughout one’s existence, and the mind gets spiritually intoxicated in bliss.

This is not just a bookish idea; any sincere sadhaka can experience this. Ananda Marga sadhana is very scientific and all AM ista mantras are charged siddha mantras. When properly repeated with bhakti, the siddha mantra works 100% of the time. Immediately, it generates spiritual waves. It does not take months, years, or ages of sadhana practice. This is akin to turning on the switch and immediately the fan starts running; it does not take time. Spirituality is even more instantaneous. Anyone who knows the proper process and recites their siddha mantra with the sincere feeling of bhakti will instantly feel a spiritual vibration and the mind will become spiritually intoxicated in bliss. Every sadhaka can experience this. What is written here is the very first step. Anyone can realise this very easily. Ananda Marga sadhana is so unique in this regard. But without bhakti (i.e. love for Parama Purusa) nothing will happen.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

So with a focused mind and the right practice of meditation, a blissful flow consumes our existence and the mind gets spiritually intoxicated in bliss. That is a sentient vibration is aroused.

In dry sadhana: no spiritual vibration comes

If we do not feel any vibration when doing sadhana then we know the mantra was not being recited properly with bhakti, and the mind was running hither and thither. In that case, that session of sadhana was not well utilized. When one is able to recite the mantra with full ideation and bhakti then a sentient vibration always arises. The arousal of a blissful vibration indicates a certain degree of "success" in sadhana. But, this is not the full culmination of one's sadhana. Rather at this point one has reached an initial crossroads.

#1: The aspirant can continue to focus on their mantra japa with bhakti delving deeper into their meditation.

#2: The aspirant loses their focus on their ista mantra in sadhana, and the sweet vibration wanes.

Some important points to know:
(a) The worst type of sadhana is if one does not feel any spiritual vibration in their practice.
(b) One step better is to attain some spiritual vibration but have it diminish due to the diversion of mind.
(c) The best is focusing on and repeating the ista mantra with bhakti all the while cultivating an intense longing to get Him; the outcome will be a blissful spiritual vibration.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

We should remember that sadhana is not some type of external show or superficial presentation; sadhana is completely internal. Those who try to fake it in sadhana, in order to impress others, are the worst of the worst. Due to their hypocrisy, they never proceed one step ahead in their spiritual journey. Such persons are cheating themselves and ruining their practice due to their fake display. The basic quality of a sadhaka is simplicity.

Conclusion

One’s personal ista mantra is a divine tool for calling Parama Purusa. And with a heart full of bhakti one should continue their mantra japa with bhakti and focus exclusively on that in sadhana. Then when any sentient vibration is aroused one will easily be able to cross that threshold and become further immersed in His divine flow - in the kingdom of bliss.

Regardless of the state or quality of one’s sadhana, this much everyone should do. When sitting in sadhana, focus the mind on one’s personal ista mantra - knowing its meaning and consciously repeat it with full ideation and bhakti. If one tries then the mind will settle down. Otherwise if one is sitting in sadhana and thinking about something else, then the whole thing is a waste. Ananda Marga mantras are charged (siddha) so when doing mantra japa with bhakti they are effective 100% of the time.

Namaskar,
in Him
Ananda

We should always aim to keep the body motionless and the mind focused on the mantra and reach closer and closer to Him. If in any sitting one does not feel any vibration then that is the lowest quality of sadhana.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


~ In-depth study ~

Whenever possible one should leave the house and go outside for sadhana for an extended period of time to practice meditation. Then one will leave behind all worldly distractions and be able to focus the mind on their mantra and call Him with the love of the heart. By Baba's mercy we will all move ahead in our sadhana and internally experience His cosmic bliss. By His grace may every sadhaka be blessed with the opportunity to please and serve Parama Purusa in their sadhana.

Sadhana: why must keep back straight

#1: In the Senior Acarya Diary chapter on Iishvara pranidhana, section - “shuddhis”, Baba is describing that when sitting in meditation (padmasana, siddhasana, viirasana) one must keep the back straight so that the kundalini has the passageway to rise upward from muladhara to sahasrara.

#2: Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "They should be taught to sit in padmásana [lotus posture], but instead of interlocking the fingers, they may rest one palm upon the other; and keep the spine erect.." (1)

#3: Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Tailless apes can be taught sádhaná after some effort. The tailed bipeds will not be able to do sádhaná like the tailless bipeds because the backbone of the tailed bipeds, containing the controlling points of the five fundamental factors, does not come in one line. The controlling points fall on a curved line, hence they cannot perform sádhaná properly.” (2)

#4: Ananda Marga philosophy states,” Mono-sided, straight or erect beings can perform sádhaná very well because all the five controlling points of the fundamental factors fall on a straight line...You see how fortunate you are to have a human biological structure. You have got a human frame. Humans should be obliged to Supreme Consciousness for this favour.” (3)

#5: Ananda Marga philosophy states, "The one who has followed the straight path of the sus'umna' canal upwards becomes one with Parama Purus'a." (4)

#6: Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Ujure uju cháŕi ná leo re báḿka. The word “uju” in Saḿskrta is derived from the Saḿskrta word “rju”. “Rju” means straight. The meaning of this line is “don’t accept the crooked path rejecting the straight one”. That is, just proceed along the path of “suśumná” not along the path of “id́á” and “piuṋgalá”.” (5)

Eight types of occult powers

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “Hence the spiritual aspirant must not run after these inconsequential occult powers, although while practicing spiritual cult they may develop. You must not forget that all your achievements must maintain adjustment with the main propensities of the mind, and in the process of adjustment, all these eight types of occult powers present themselves to the spiritual aspirant.” (6)

Occult powers like dust on the roadside

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “While practising spiritual cult, it should be remembered that spiritual aspirants must not practise in order to acquire these occult powers. The goal of spiritual practice is to realize the Supreme Entity. To search for any other thing is wrong. Occult powers are just like the dust on the roadside. The attraction for Parama Puruśa is the most valuable object – all else is only the dust of the earth.” (7)

Sadhana is the pathway of life

Here Baba again reminds us that the path of sadhana is the most meaningful endeavour in life.

Vrtha' janma...

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "The ideation on Brahma should be done scrupulously, or else you will later regret and bemoan the futility of your life with the last drop of your tears at your last hour. You should make your life worthwhile through your sadhana. How much can your worldly friends and relations do for you? After your death your relatives may perhaps ask, 'How much money has he left behind?'. Your friends may go to the crematorium and indulge in flattering reminiscences about you. Your husband or wife may cry out for you for about ten or twelve days and then regain their normal composure. Your lot will be only a profound sigh-- a record of the futility and frustration of your life. So do not waste your time lest you later have to repent." (8)

Sincere sadhana: mental vibrations cause radical changes

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “When the mental flow of a spiritual aspirant moves along the introversial phase of Macrocosmic meditation, one’s animative force, having the potentiality of divinity itself, rises above all tendencies – all saḿskáras – and proceeds towards Eternal bliss. In this state the mind is vibrated with Cosmic feeling. The unexpressed divine qualities of the higher glands find expression and the resonance of the mind vibrates the nervous system. This gives rise to pious expressions in the physical body. In the case of those people whose occult feelings are not physically expressed due to causes associated with the nerves, the mental vibrations cause certain radical changes, in the various glands within the body. These occult feelings are basically of eight types: stambha (astounding), kampa (trembling), sveda (sweating), svarabheda (hoarseness of voice), ashru (tears), romáiṋca (horripilation), vaevarńa (change of colour) and pralaya (fainting fit). There are other feelings associated with these major feelings. For examples, nrtya (dancing), giita (singing), viluńt́hana (rolling), kroshana (weeping), huḿkára (roaring), lálásráva (salivating), jrmbhańa (yawning), lokápekśá tyága (indifference), at́t́ahásya (bursting into laughter), ghúrńana (whirling), hikká (hiccoughing), tanumot́ana (relaxation of the physical body) and diirghashvása (deep breathing).” (9)

By superficial look the above reactions may seem strange but these are blissful expressions and if one experiences this then they will long for that again and again. Here it should be noted that a given aspirant will undergo only one of those expressions based on their inherent samskara. So it is not that a particular aspirant will experience multiple or all of these reactions. Although the Ananda Marga sadhana system is very scientific - those not doing proper sadhana - i.e. those having dry sadhana - will never experience these reactions.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Vácanika & upáḿshu japa are useless
 
   Ananda Marga philosophy states, “The probability of such signs is very little in the case of vácanika and upáḿshu japa. That expression is very natural in case of those who have learned the correct process of sádhaná. These are associated with pleasure, and not with pain of any kind. Therefore, those who do not practise sádhaná should not be unnecessarily afraid of these signs.”
  ‘When such occult symptoms appear, the sádhaka also should not worry in any way. In this state if the sádhakas pay attention to expressing those signs, their progress will be retarded. If they suppress these occult feelings, their bháva or ideation itself will be disturbed and their minds will become detached from Iishvara prańidhána. You should always remember that Cosmic feeling is above everything else; it is unwise to waste time paying attention to the external symptoms of the ideation or bháva.”
   “These occult symptoms disappear as soon as the mind is detached from Cosmic objectivity. When sádhakas attain the capability to establish themselves in Cosmic feeling for long periods, those ideations are confined to the mental body only and the physical body becomes calm to a great extent.” (10)

References
1. Caryacarya - 1, The Process of Initiation
2. Yoga Psychology, The Human Body Is a Biological Machine
3. Yoga Psychology, The Human Body Is a Biological Machine
4. Namami Krsnasundaram, Párthasárathi Krśńa and Vishiśt́ádvaetaváda (Discourse 16)
5. Ananda Marga Karma Yoga in a Nutshell, “Kurvanneveha Karmmáńi”
6. Subhasita Samgraha - 18, Cult, Inference and Propensity
7. Subhasita Samgraha - 18, Cult, Inference and Propensity
8. Subhasita Samgraha - 3, Vibration, Form, and Colour
9. A Guide to Human Conduct, Iishvara prańidhána
10. A Guide to Human Conduct, Iishvara prańidhána

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

Merciful One

"Ámi ár kono kichu bhúli ná, shudhu bhúle tháki tava nám..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0838)

Purport:

My Parama Purusa, I never forget anything mundane; but, it is so unfortunate and painful that I cannot remember Your divine name. I cannot keep You in my mind or  recall my Ista mantra and Guru mantra for 24 hours, without a break. Whereas those worldly dealings always hover in my mental plate. Please grace me. I want to call You all the time - within each and every breath and respiration, but alas it escapes me. O' Supreme Entity, although I fail to ideate on You, even then I can see that You love me. I always feel Your love, especially when I look towards You. It is Your mercy. 

Parama Purusa, the star which came down from the heavenly, spiritual, radiant bosom of Taraka Brahma, a particle of that star’s supreme refulgence filled my mind with spiritual ecstasy. It has inundated my existence in unending bliss.
 
Baba, the Parama Purusa, the immense love which You have poured in my heart and affection that You saturated in my mind always vibrates my being and brings me to the sublime world. The melody that You played within my mind, today with that tune I do sastaunga pranam to You again and again. O’ Prabhu, You are the most compassionate One.

Baba, kindly bless me so that I always remember my Ist’a mantra...

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Capitalists are anti-social creatures

   Prout philosophy states, "In a joint family every member is provided with adequate food, clothing, education and medical treatment, and amenities, as per their individual needs, according to the financial capacity of the entire family. If, however, any member of the family appropriates more grains, clothes, books or medicines than he or she requires, will that person not be the cause of distress to other members of the family? In such circumstances his or her actions will be certainly against dharma – certainly antisocial."
  "Similarly, the capitalists of this modern world are anti-dharma, or antisocial, creatures. To accumulate massive wealth, they reduce others to skin and bones gnawed by hunger and force them to die of starvation; to dazzle people with the glamour of their garments, they compel others to wear rags; and to increase their own vital strength, they suck dry the vital juice of others." (1)

Reference
1. Problems of the Day, Point #1

== Section: News (18 June 2018) ==

News: Where your donation has gone

~ Courtesy to Arun Agarwal who posted the following list in WhatsApp groups ~

------
1. Late Ac Artesha Nand Ji - Delhi,  left ₹ 7,00,000
2. Divyeshwara Nand Ji - Sweeden , left ₹ 25,00,000
3. Akshara Nand Ji - Africa , left more then one khoka including

4. Rainjaneshwara Nand - Australia financed to his brothers to establish mineral water plant at Noida and construct a beautyful house at his native place.

5. Rudrananda has a land in Himachal Pradesh with apple orchard , look after by Col. H L Abrol. Mr Abrol was adviser to Catch Company’s mineral water plant in H P. Mr Abrol was introduced by me in 1990 and initiated by Mr R.

This is not the end rather it is ....
----------×--------×---------
Satyeshvarananda informed following about Nirmohananda in Mumbai:

Nirmohananda Dada had Rs 90,000/- in his Bank account before he was admitted to hospital before his death. In hospital, he realised that someone fraudulently had transferred all his Rs 90000 from his bank account ( on line fraud). He informed about fraud to one WT. And then we came to know............before death his savings was also vanished....

~ Courtesy to Arun Agarwal who posted the above list in WhatsApp groups ~

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Peace: Why this knowledge is useless

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 ==

Women: privacy of their households

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Those who want to keep their daughters away from the “infection of modernity”, and so are reluctant to send them to schools and colleges, perhaps do not realize that modernism had already entered into the privacy of their households quite a long time ago without their knowledge. So their efforts to save their daughters as well as themselves by hanging window curtains or by covering their daughters with veils are entirely farcical. The trend of the age is irrepressible, for in this too there is dynamism. It is the duty of the wise to channelize it to the path of benevolence by applying their own wisdom to the task. To thwart the spirit of the age is beyond the power of any individual or any collective force. That dynamic spirit of the age – that Zeitgeist – speeds ahead unabated with all force, throwing down anyone who tries to stand and thwart it, and that floored, sprawling creature with imbecilic and glum eyes keeps staring vacantly at progress.” (1)

Reference
1. Human Society - 1, Social Justice

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Preparation pre-revolution - 2

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “At first, the demon was quite unwilling to hold any discussion with them. At last, seeing them many in number, he said with reluctance, “Well, I have no objection to talk with some of your representatives.” In the course of discussion, the demon pretended that he did not deny that the demands of the humans were legitimate but where is the money? “In order to rebuild the state,” he said, “expenditure has to be curtailed; exports have to be increased and imports decreased, and it is necessary to accelerate the production of agricultural and industrial goods. If people today are busy with trifling demands, how then is it possible to rebuild the Very Odd Kingdom? So people should raise only one slogan today ‘Labour – more labour – and still more labour!’ Demands of housing, education, medical treatment – we have heard enough of your demands! Now I advise you, forget your demands for the right to higher wages, education, medical treatment, and better accomodation, for the time being – and go and labour hard!””

“The representatives of the human beings said “How wonderful! But then the question is, if you don’t accept our right to live how can we labour hard?””

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “The discussion was interrupted. The demon and his associates now became active to create divisions among the youth. They said to the religious leaders, pundits, priests and mullas (religious leaders), “Do you see what is happening? Religion is becoming polluted, society is becoming polluted, everything is spoiled. After some time perhaps these loutish youth will say, ‘These pundits, priests and mullas, they are the parasites of the society; They suck the lifeblood of humanity by taking advantage of the weakness of their minds!’ So a big group of priests, pundits and mullas joined the demons. They declared, ‘What people are saying now is sheer injustice. People starve as a consequence of their own sins committed in their previous lives. So to fight for the establishment of their rights is to try to overmaster God!’”

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “But there were some good people even among the priests and mullas and pundits, of course. They declared, “What the prince’s group, the human beings, are saying, is right. To support them is right”. Ministers and vice-ministers were giving them high posts in government service. Some were trapped in this way, too, but most of the people said, “We are going to be deceived by such temptation no longer – we have long been cheated for our foolishness, but no more!!””

“The Strange Demon noticed that each of his arrows was missing its target. Then he captured some good orators by spending much money. The work of these orators was to make the rank and file of human beings understand that the proper way to achieve their demand was to bear injustice silently and not resort to struggle. “By tolerating injustice,” they said, “When a person becomes non-violent, a kind of spiritual power awakens in him. And as a result of this spiritual power peace and equality prevail throughout the country. So you should rather engage yourself in the practice of self-purification than have recourse to struggle.” But the humans paid no heed to this either.”

“Now the demon became restless. He began to run to and fro like an insane person, tearing his hair and shouting violently. In no time his mask of gentleness was rent asunder. Then he started crying out loudly in his demonic tongue.”

“O devils, O demons,
Man-eaters, ghost-children,
Where are you my friends and comrades
Come and save me from the humans.
O black-marketeers and bribers,
O pot-bellied
Come, O come! Where are you??
I am going to be killed by Humanity.” (1)

Reference
1. The Golden Lotus of the Blue Sea

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

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

Harmful to spiritual flow

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/06/way-to-ravage-ones-sadhana.html

Important to avoid this comparison

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/12/wrong-comparison.html