Cow’s milk not sentient--when? + 5 more

Baba

Cow’s milk not sentient--when?

Note: This letter is only for health conscious sadhakas - margiis and wts - who are very strict in adhering to a sentient diet.

Namaskar,

As per Ananda Marga teachings, milk is sentient. It is a sattvika food item. Yet we should bear in mind that there are some important considerations.

When the capitalist-minded agro-dairy industry and related corporations use steroids, injections, and other unnatural techniques to get the cows to produce excessive amounts of milk at the risk of the overall health of those cows etc, then that milk cannot be considered sentient. It is full of pollutants, poisonous chemicals, and other harmful agents.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Many Indian cows eat junk & night-soil

The situation of some Indian cows is also quite compromised. Some of the cows in the Indian cities eat all kinds of things: paper, plastic, garbage, cardboard etc. They eat so much of it that when a cow gets sick and surgery is needed, then invariably doctors find 30 - 65kg of junk / garbage inside the cow.

Such problems are not limited to cows in the city. In the countryside and suburban towns where inhabitants defecate outside, then cows in those areas often eat night-soil. Whereas goats and buffaloes do not eat night-soil.

For those not aware, cow's milk from the villages is widely-distributed. Those villagers often form a cooperative and keep their milk in a central location. Then an area "milk-man" comes around for pick-ups once or twice a day. That milk is brought to processing plants in larger cities. At those plants, milk from various areas gets mixed, packaged, and shipped for wider delivery. So it is not that the village milk stays in a village. The milk of those cows that eat night-soil reaches a wide spectrum of buyers. Many are then exposed to milk produced by (some) cows that eat night soil.

In both conditions, city and country, the sentient quality of the cow in India - and cow's milk - is greatly disturbed. And verily these scenarios are applicable to any land or country where the cows live under such conditions.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Then there is the problem that cows that do not have calves do not allow all their milk to be taken. So dairy farmers around the world inject such cows with chemicals and drugs so those cows will release all their milk. In turn, those chemicals get mixed in with the milk. Anyone can taste and smell the toxins in the milk. This is a large-scale, global problem.

It all comes to this: Unless you know the history of the cow and how it has lived, purchasing or drinking cow's milk is risky. The answer lies in enclosed natural areas or sanctuaries so cows can live in a natural setting and have some freedom without endangering or exposing them to harmful agents, like pollution, garbage, and night soil.

Till that time, drinking cow's milk in India - and other lands where the cows are subjected to such conditions - is tamasika on many occasions.

Milk from a newly-calved cow is tamasika

Here is another key parameter to take into consideration which is applicable to the entire world - everywhere. This point is not limited to any particular place.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Baba guides us that it is not sentient to drink the milk of a cow that recently gave birth. Essentially, that milk contains colostrum which is harmful to the mind of a sadhaka. Such milk is tamasika.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "The milk of a newly-calved cow [sandhinii] [is] ta'masika." (1)

Here are further guidelines about this:

(a) In the original Bengali and Hindi editions of Caryacarya, Baba says do not drink the milk of a sandhinii cow. The term sandhinii is consistently used and defined as a cow which has recently given birth. .

(b) Then in the English edition of Caryacarya, the phrase - newly-calved cow - has been used. Here again we are not to drink that milk.

(c) Then in Shabda Cayanika Baba also defines sandhinii as a newly-calved cow.

Baba says, "Given birth to a calf. A cow in that stage is called sandhinii.” (2)

Furthermore, in Samskrta language literature, the term sandhinii is qualified as being a ten-day period.

"The milk of a female animal [sandhinii] whose offspring is not ten days old."  (Courtesy of League of Devotees (dot) com)

So this link clarifies that sandhinii refers to a ten-day period for the cow after giving birth.

How company produced cow's milk is tamasika

Now that we have confirmed that our Ananda Marga guideline is that milk from a cow that has given birth less than 10 days ago is tamasika, we should compare this with today's markets around the world.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

In the US, government regulations stipulate that dairy farms / manufacturers cannot sell milk from a newly-calved cow for 4 days. After that 4-day period, it is approved by the FDA for human consumption. That is the standard in the USA.

"By regulation, everything the dairy farmer collects from a cow for the first four days (8 "milkings") cannot be sold as milk, and is classified as colostrum." (Courtesy of www (dot) willardswater (dot) com)

In Ananda Marga our standard is different. Baba guides us that we should not drink milk from a sandhinii cow (a newly-calved cow) i.e. within a 10-day period of delivering her calf. Thus, any milk made in the US during that 6-day window, i.e. day 4 to day 10 after a cow has given birth, is tamasika. Whether it is organic or not, that milk is classified as tamasika according to our Ananda Marga standard.

So the problem is that there is no way of knowing which milk on the shelf in the US was produced during that period. By this standard, it is literally impossible to know if the milk you are buying in the US is tamasika or not.

In the area where you live, you should find out what the laws and regulations are. Because if the standard is less than the specified 10-day period as given in Ananda Marga, then there will be tamasika milk on the shelves in stores.

For instance, let's say in Italy the rule is not to produce milk from a newly-calved cow for 5 days after giving birth, then there is a remaining 5-day window wherein tamasika milk is being produced, and hence sold in stores. Let's take another hypothetical example. Let's say in Argentina the rule is not to produce milk for 12 days after a cow has given birth. In that case, the milk produced in Argentina is sentient (at least on this factor) according to our Ananda Marga guideline. Because our guideline is a 10-day period, at minimum, and Argentina is going beyond that mark. These are all hypothetical examples, but the point is understood.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Any milk produced by a newly-calved cow / sandhinii cow that is less than the mandatory 10-day waiting period is tamasika.

Cow eats garbage in USA

~ Courtesy of Mother Jones ~

“Chicken shit: What’s not to love about the fecal waste of America’s 36-million-plus broiler chickens? It’s plentiful and cheap. But according to a recent OnEarth story by Brad Jacobson, the problem may be less the poop itself than the smorgasbord of other substances it frequently comes with, including feathers, heavy metals, bacteria, antibiotics, and bits of rodents. Jacobson also notes that the practice could promote the spread of mad cow disease.”

“Crab guts: For ranchers and feedlots near the coast, the guts and other undesirable parts of fish, crabs, shrimp, and crawfish can be an abundant source of cheap protein. Ground up into a tasty meal, seafood byproducts can be mixed into other feeds. Fish-meal cattle feed isn’t a new idea; Marco Polo observed in his diary that cows ate it.” (Courtesy of Mother Jones)

Conclusion: cow's milk sold in stores is tamasika

Unless we have perfect proof about how the milk is produced, then we have to assume that the milk sold in stores is tamasika. Because that milk contains steroids or other harmful agents; the milk of a newly-calved cow contains colostrum; there is the issue of commercial factory farming etc. In all such cases, that milk is tamasika and should be avoided.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Let’s reflect again: Unless we have perfect proof about how the milk is produced, then we have to assume that the milk sold in stores is tamasika. That is the only way to approach it; drinking any milk from any store is to walk along a slippery slope - anything is possible. One may fall at any moment. That milk should be treated as tamasika.

Verily there are many dos and don'ts regarding the sanctity of milk. Best is to just assume that all milk from a regular supermarket etc is tamasika. Remember, when store-bought milk itself is tamasika, then it also means that those products produced from and using that milk are also tamasika: butter, cream, cheese, sour cream, yogurt etc.

Finally, again bear in mind that the point of waiting 10 days after the birth before milking a cow for human consumption applies to buffaloes and goats as well.

Namaskar,
Sharada
(Sarah Loggins)

~ In-depth study ~

Ananda Marga ideology states, "Suppose a physician says, “As a human, you require animal protein for your health;” but suppose dharma says, “No, a human should not take carnal food;” then in that case you will have to follow dharma and not the physician, because the order of dharma is above all other orders. Dharma is the highest Lord, the highest authority." (3)


Neo-humanistic reason: about cow's milk

There is also a neo-humanistic reason why as Ananda Margiis we refrain from taking milk from a newly-calved cow: We are to watch for the well-being of all creatures, including baby calves. We are to ensure those calves get all the food and nutrition they need. One way of ensuring this is to not deprive them of any of their mother's milk. Baba has expressed this point in His teachings.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Emits foul smell from body

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Those who consume a lot of static food also emit this sort of foul smell...Similarly, an intensely foul smell is emitted from the bodies of tigers because they are carnivorous...A hilsa fish (an Indian herring) is extremely fond of flesh – rotten flesh is its favourite food – hence it produces a kind of repulsive secretion. If a fish bowl or container which held hilsa fish is cleaned with a cloth, and the cloth is used to clean another container, a repulsive smell will be emitted from the second container unless it is properly ventilated. A vegetarian will feel uncomfortable if this container is used for eating, drinking or anything else. Strict vegetarians avoid using any container which has been used to hold non-vegetarian food." (4)

Eating any food, proper or improper will not do

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "Strict vegetarians avoid using any container which has been used to hold non-vegetarian food." (5)

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Static food: Food which is harmful for the mind and may or may not be good for the body is static. Onion, garlic, wine, stale and rotten food, meat of large animals such as cows and buffaloes, fish, eggs, etc., are static. Very often people eat food without knowing its intrinsic qualities. For example, the milk of a cow which has just given birth. Or white eggplant, khesárii pulse [horse gram], red puni [Basella rubra Linn.], or mustard leaves, all of which often grew out of rotten matter. In order to have a balanced mind and to progress spiritually, human beings will have to pay attention to the qualities of the food they eat. The idea that “I will just do my sádhaná and eat any food, proper or improper” will not do." (6)

Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "Támasika áhára: All kinds of foods which are harmful to either the body or mind and may or may not be harmful to the other are called támasika. Stale and rotten food, the flesh of large animals such as cows and buffaloes, and all types of intoxicants, are categorized as támasika. Small amounts of tea, cocoa and similar drinks which do not excite a person to the point of losing his/her senses are in the rájasika category. The milk of a newly-calved cow, white brinjals, khesárii dál, green vegetables of the type of red puni or mustard are támasika. Masúr dál cooked for one meal will become támasika by the next meal." (7)

References
1. Caryacarya - 3. Procedure for Eating
2. Shabda Cayanika - 4, Kálii to Kikhi (Discourse 25)
3. Subhasita Samgraha - 21, Jaeva Dharma and Bhágavata Dharma
4. Microvita in a Nutshell, Some Examples of Microvita in Daily Life – Section C
5. Microvita in a Nutshell, Some Examples of Microvita in Daily Life – Excerpt C
6. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell, Food, Cells, Physical and Mental Development
7. Caryacarya - 3, Procedure for Eating

*        *        *

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 ==

All are kith & kin

"Tomákei bhálobási ámrá, tomár pathe cali tomár kathá boli..." (Prabhat Samgiita #3821)

Purport:

Parama Purusa, You are our everything, our Heart of hearts. We love only You. We are moving ceaselessly along Your effulgent path and treading on that very path which You have graciously shown to us. O' All-Pervading One, day and night we sing Your boundless glories and dance according to Your sweet rhythms. We always propagate Your grand ideals. You have created us: We are Your thought projection as well as Your progeny. Baba, You are our Father - Our Ista. We love only You.

Supreme Entity, we love one and all equally; everyone's existence is treasured. We do not differentiate between high and low, small and big, rich and poor, touchable and untouchable, sinner and virtuous, literate and illiterate etc. All are kith and kin - all are family members and part of that indivisible humanity. We are all bound together by Your immortal love. With Your infinite compassion, You always draw us near with Your beacon call, which pulls our heart close to You. We hear Your sound and move towards You. You are the Goal. Our each and every action and deed is aimed toward Your divine stance - toward reaching up to You. You are our Aim and the Polestar of our life.   

My Parama Purusa Baba, You have blessed us with the ideals of neo-humanism. First, You have granted us individual freedom; second, You have infused us with universal spirit; and third, You have spiritualised our minds with the dhyana of the Supreme One. With these three attributions one other quality unfolds: We wage a relentless fight against all the evils and sin. And by Your grace victory is sure. Baba, by these four noble qualities of neo-humanism - individual freedom, universal spirit, dhyana of the Omnipotent entity, and the fight against evil forces - we have created a potent, bitter medicine that cures all sorts of ailments like dogma, infighting, and narrow-mindedness. O' Ever gracious Entity, with this approach we have made this dusty earth into a golden paradise, by Your causeless blessing.

Baba, we all love only You; You are our Goal. O' our most Adored One...


Note about Prabhat Samgiita #3821

[1] "vyaśt́i...amara'r": In the third and final stanza of the above song, Ananda Marga philosophy presents 4 special principles that are part and parcel of our neo-humanistic philosophy: (a) individual freedom, (b) universal spirit, (c) dhyana of the Supreme Entity, (d) the fight against injustices and sin. All four are needed to create a golden paradise on this earth and build a society in the real sense of the term. 

Spirituality is an essential aspect of neo-humanism. Without proper dhyana, individual freedom can be twisted to exploit the masses. Such is the case in capitalism since it is devoid of a spiritual approach. People just equate individual freedom with selfish pleasure and degrading activities. Communism does not allow for individual freedom nor does it recognise spirituality: Both are missing. For this reason, collective interest and a loving society could not be attained in communism. So it is more murderous than capitalism. Comparatively speaking, communists are worse than capitalists.

Then in the dogma-centered philosophy such as in the various religions, individual freedom and perfect spirituality are missing. The religions are ritualistic and dogma-based. There is no true feeling of universal love. That is why even followers of the same religion can kill each other - what to speak of harming members of other religions. History has witnessed this again and again. So the religious society is also defective.

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us that in an ideal society all 4 principles are needed: (a) individual freedom, (b) universal spirit, (c) dhyana of the Supreme Entity, and (d) the fight against injustices and sin. Failing that, this world cannot become a golden paradise. In the absence of any of these aforementioned principles, groupism and factionalism will erupt.

So our neo-humanistic approach is wholly revolutionary. In this God-centered approach, individual freedom is used for virtuous deeds which bring collective welfare, and all the while there is a pactless fight against all injustices. This is the speciality of our neo-humanism and this is the grand ideal that is being propagated in this above song. 

In our present day AMPS, these qualities are missing: (a) individual freedom, (b) universal spirit, (c) dhyana of the Supreme Entity, and (d) the fight against injustices.

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

Beware: do you own a pet? 

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "A monkey is a more developed animal than a dog or a cow, but as it does not live with humans, its development - the speed of its development - is less. Dogs and cows, who live with humans have a speedier evolution. A monkey which lives in the proximity of humans also has a speedier development." (1)

Note: But the reverse effect happens in the case of humans. Those people who keep such animals as their pets and live around those animals become that animal in their future life. This happens due to deep attachment with that animal and overall lack of Brahmabhava. Baba has given countless demonstrations about this.

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 5, Don't Be Misguided

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Prout’s stand: intervene & stop injustice

Prout philosophy states, “Now, suppose a man seems to have good relations with his neighbours, but it becomes apparent that he is about to murder his wife, what should be the duty of the neighbours? Will they remain tight-lipped, sit quietly with their arms folded, and dismiss the situation as purely a domestic affair, thereby making the murder of the woman easier, and thus assist in establishing static peace? No, that is not the dictum of human dharma. On the contrary they should rush to the house, break down the door, save the woman, take suitable action against the male tyrant, and in this way come forward to establish sentient peace.” (1)

Note: The above Proutistic teaching applies to both individual and collective life. Wherever there is an injustice, then there must be an intervention, either by the neighbouring family, or the neighbouring country. Sitting quietly and biding away the time while a wrongdoing is unfolding is not our way. According to Prout, it is the bounden duty of every right-thinking individual and government to jump into action. 

Reference
1. Problems of the Day, Point #15

== Section: Important Topic ==

Main thread in 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)

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 show that they are highly elevated sadhakas. A few 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.

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

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Far-reaching effects

Prout philosophy states, “Whatever dignity a person possesses as a human being in either the Kśatriya Age or the Vipra Age is dealt its heaviest blow in the Vaeshya Age. In the Vaeshya Age a person's dignity is measured in terms of money. The repercussions of this defective evaluation of human beings are not confined only to the realm of dignity; they have far-reaching effects in all spheres of society.” (Human Society-2, The Vaeshya Age)

Prout philosophy states, “In the Vaeshya Age this religious exploitation is more psychic than physical, because the vaeshyas use the vipras to try to spread intellectual propaganda among the masses to prevent them from finding any philosophical justification for their suppressed grievances against the vaeshya structure. This intellectual propaganda aims to convince people that they are the victims of circumstance. It argues, “Everything is destiny. Everything is preordained.” Such doctrines help the vaeshyas to perpetuate their structure. They destroy the personal force of people and make them the playthings of fate. People accept the idea that everything is preordained, and support the status quo.” (1)


Reference
1. Human Society-2, The Vaeshya Age

== Section 4: Links ==

Upcoming Dogma: Father's Day - June 21

Father's Day?

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/06/way-to-shrug-off-responsibility-2-more.html

Mother's Day undermines motherhood

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/05/where-and-why-mothers-dont-like-to-be.html

Postings to Read

How pranayama helps

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/10/why-some-cant-do-proper-meditation.html

Those beings in Shabda Cayanika stories

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2023/06/so-called-ghost-2-more.html

Samskara & rebirth of famous leader

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/07/baba-story-samskara-bhog.html

Types of peace: bad to beneficial

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/11/peace-useful-vs-harmful.html

Fear epidemic & antidote

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2019/10/paranoia.html

Sadhana relationships + 4 more

Baba

Sadhana relationships

Namaskar,

This letter addresses the types of relations a bhakta can have with Parama Purusa. This is an important topic for all sadhakas. These types of spiritual feelings are special aspects of Ananda Marga sadhana, the path of bliss.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

In human life, people have all kinds of desires, and most resort to animalistic tendencies in their pursuit of materialism and sensuality. As Ananda Margiis, we are embarking on the path of true spirituality; we are travelers on the path of life divine. Our goal is to realize and attain Parama Purusa.


Types of relations with Parama Purusa

Here below we briefly outline the various relations a bhakta might have with Parama Purusa. As one's level of bhakti rises, ultimately in the culminating moment the sadhaka likes either da'sya bháva or madhura bháva, as described below.

(A) Basic: In the rudimentary stage of bhakti, the sadhaka thinks that God exists and resides somewhere in this universe, but feels no personal relationship with Him. Just the sadhaka views God as being the judge of some court.

(B) Father: As one's bhakti grows, the sadhaka starts to develop a closer link with Him and feels that, “Parama Purusa and I are part of the same family.” This often leads to the Father-son relation. In the Father-relation there is a respectful, loving, and personal relation with Him. But the bhakta does not feel very close where he can share everything with Him.

(C) Vatsalya Bháva: In this stage the sadhaka cares for the Lord as their child. So here too a familial relationship has been formed, but it is not very, very close. Countless margiis and also sadhakas like Surdas had this type of relation.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

(D) Sakhya Bháva: When one views Parama Purusa as their friend, then that bhakta opens up in a more personal manner and shares all kinds of inner thoughts and feelings with Parama Purusa. Sadhakas like historical Arjuna plus many margiis & wts etc had this type of relation. In the highest stage of bhakti, one feels one of the following relations: Da'sya bháva or madhura bhava. It generally depends upon one's inherent samskaras and way of relating with Parama Purusa in dhyana.

(E) Da'sya Bháva: Slave relation. In this bhava, the sadhaka views Parama Purusa as their Master. In that case, one vows to do each and everything for Him as He is the Master. In the mythological story of the Ramayana, the great imaginary bhakta Hanuman is depicted as an example of a sadhaka with da'sya bhava.

(F) Madhura Bháva: This is the sweetest, most loving relationship with Parama Purusa. The path of madhura bháva is very charming where the sadhaka accepts Parama Purusa as their Dearest One. Many margiis and wts and also great sadhakas like Miirabai, Rádhá etc come in this category. This is a very close relationship where there is a very intimate feeling between the bhakta and Parama Purusa.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Those with some kind of bhakti will fall in one of the above categories. Remember that one's relation with Him is based on one’s inner feeling; it is not some type of external show. A sadhana cannot just beat the drum and brag with a booming voice that they got a particular type of bháva (relation). One's relations with Parama Purusa is purely an internal affair, not some type of superficial display. This is a very intimate and personal topic where one should see how close they feel in their heart with Parama Purusa Baba.


Maturation of relation

In His below teaching, Baba guides us that at the culmination of one’s personal link with Him then the relation matures into one of two bhávas: dasya bháva or madhura bháva. 

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “When this sakhya bháva matures, when this love for Parama Puruśa deepens, it is transformed either into dásya bháva or into madhura bháva. “Parama Puruśa is my best friend. He loves me.” When a person thinks like this, he or she draws close to Parama Puruśa. From a distance one cannot feel His greatness, but when one comes within His proximity one realizes that He is unfathomable, immeasurable, and thinks: “Oh, although He is my sakhá [my friend], how great He is! How vast! I consider myself fortunate to have come so close to Him.” When one thinks in this way, oneʼs sakhya bháva is transformed into dásya bháva. One then feels that since Parama Puruśa is so great and loves one so much, it is oneʼs duty to serve Him and fulfil His desire in every possible way. One feels, “Since He is earnestly seeking human welfare it is my duty to do His work.” This is the spirit of dásya bháva. “He is my Master, my Lord – I am His servant.” And the spirit of madhura bháva is as follows: “He is so vast, endowed with innumerable attributes, yet even then He loves me. He is so great, yet He is still my most intimate friend, so very close to me. What joy! What joy!” This is madhura bháva.” (1)


Bhakti & middleman

Dogmatic people cannot digest this type of intimate and close link with Parama Purusa. They think of God as being far away in the distant fictitious heaven etc. In that case, there is no question of having any relation; the gap is so vast. There is no direct communication; one must go via a third party, i.e. priest. Indeed, puja’ will not be successful without a purohit puja'ri. In those religions, they preach that to realize God one must go via others. Just like how dogmatic people need a middleman / religious cheat to communicate with their object of worship. Actually, that type of relation is no relation at all; one is very far. If forced to attach a name to that type of relation, it will be termed as "alien relation." Because one is so far away, there is no way for the bhakta to share their feeling of the heart with their object of worship.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Across the ages, only great bhaktas have fully realised and experienced a loving, intimate relation with their Lord. For example, Rádhá and the great bhakta Miirabai formed a deeply personal and intimate madhura bháva relation. Surdas had a deeply personal va’tsalya bhava link with Parama Purusa. These are a few examples of many great bhaktas.


What is Rádhá
 
Ananda Marga philosophy states, ”The further the jiivas move towards Parama Puruśa, the more elevated their minds become. When they reach a very subtle stage of elevation, their concentrated mind-stuff speeds towards Him with the one-pointedness of an arrow. Such a mentality is called Rádhá....What is Rádhá bháva? When devotees feel in their heart of hearts that their existence is meaningless without attaining Lord , that they cannot survive a single moment without feeling His blissful presence, they have attained the stage called Rádhá. Such devotees know nothing other than árádhaná [total mental absorption” (2)

Note: Some ignorant people think that Radha is a female of Vrindaban. But that is not true. 'A-grade' devotees are Radha, whether they are male or female or anyone.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Krśńa is not a male being of Vrindavan, and Rádhá is not a lady. You should understand it properly.” (3)

In dhya'na, a sadhaka should always follow the type of relation that feels most natural at that time. Forcing or pretending to follow a particular bha'va is meaningless; rather it is highly detrimental. Ours is the path of sincerity and naturalness.

Namaskar,
Sastaunga Pranam to Baba,
Prabha’ 

Those who want to know more about this science should reference discourses #3, #7, #9, #26 & #27 from the book Namami Krsnasundaram.


~ In-depth study ~

What is chief Gopii bháva

The following is what Sadguru Baba describes in His Hindi MGD 2 November 1979 Kullu: 

Within this gopii bháva there are two grades. One is lower and one is higher. As long as a sadhaka is still making efforts to establish himself in gopii bháva then they are in lower gopii bháva (gaon’a’ gopii bha’va). When one is fully established in gopii bhava, without any imposition or effort, then they are in higher gopii bháva (mukhya’ gopii bhava). Another name of mukhya’ gopii bháva is radha bhava. Rádhá bháva is the highest bhakti. In a natural, effortless manner, these great bhaktas of Radha bháva love Parama Purusa unconditionally. They think, “Whether Parama Purusa loves me or not, I will go on loving Him.” (English summary)


References
1. Namámi Krśńasundaram, Párthasárathi Krśńa and Sáḿkhya Philosophy – 2
2. Namami Krsnasundaram, Vraja Krśńa and Sáḿkhya Philosophy (Discourse 7)
3. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23, Rádhiká Shakti

*        *        *

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 ==

You brought me

"Ámáy keno bhálobásile, guń nái, guń nái jinánao nái..." (Prabhat Samgiita #2283)

Purport:

My Parama Purusa, You are so loving and gracious; why do You love me so much. I do not have any quality or merit; nor do I have any knowledge or learning. What then did You observe in me that made You pour Your karuna on me.

Baba, You have given me a healthy physical body, a sound mind, and a heart filled with bhakti, and saturated my core with a strong feeling for realisation of the Supreme. You have bestowed upon me an awakened intellect to serve society. Knowing that I am helpless and have no one besides You as my own, You have granted me everything, above and beyond - more than what was needed - in all realms. It is Your causeless grace.

Parama Purusa Baba, You brought me onto this earth by providing me with a human form. You filled my mind with spiritual yearning and infused a strong longing of paramartha for You. Even then, such is my miserable condition: I always remain forgetful about You and Your grace. Baba, why do You love me so much…

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

How to overcome provincialism etc

In His below teaching, Baba guides us that when we see someone supporting a particular group or an agenda based on caste, creed, colour, race, then we should be alert. By digging down, we will find that the person is not sincere in sadhana. Because Ananda Marga sadhana is the sadhana of the infinite Parama Purusa. By ideating on Him, the mind becomes larger and more vast. That is why standard sadhakas do not support any kind of groupism etc. So watch out: if someone is supporting any group then try to politely convey that they should increase their sadhana. By this way their mind will expand; and, thereafter from the core of their heart they will naturally keep their distance from any type of lowly outlook like groupism etc. This following quote from Sadguru guides us in this direction.

   Ananda Marga philosophy says, "The more the human mind becomes magnanimous or expanded, the more it rises above the sentiments of tribalism, communalism, provincialism, etc. Often I hear people say that nationalism is an appreciable sentiment and that there is no narrowness in it. But is this true? Nationalism is also relative, just like tribalism, communalism or provincialism. In some places it is more worthwhile than tribalism, communalism or provincialism, while in other places it is less worthwhile..."
   "Hence it is observed that communalism, casteism, provincialism and nationalism are all of the same defective type. Those who are able to capitalize on one of these sentiments advocate it volubly. In fact, every one of these sentiments suffers from the defect of ism, and is completely filled with narrowness, violence, envy, mean mindedness, etc. Those who enter the field of social welfare by creating divisions between “yours” and “mine”, substantially widen the fissures of fissiparous intellect in human society."
   "Those who want to promote the welfare of all human beings, remaining above all sorts of parochial sentiments, have no alternative but to embrace universalism with their heart and soul – there is no other way. As universalism is totally devoid of any characteristic of ism, it is not proper to depict universalism as an ism. If everyone is looked upon as one’s own, no one remains beyond the periphery of one’s kith and kin. Naturally, then, there is no scope for violence, envy, narrowness, etc….The more the human mind becomes magnanimous or expanded, the more it rises above the sentiments of tribalism, communalism, provincialism, etc." (1)

Reference
1. Problems of the Day, Point #18

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Sexual impotence & the degradation of society

Here Baba outlines the cause of seminal weakness [impotency] which is a serious problem these days.

Ananda Marga Yogic Treatments states, "Lack of proper sexual knowledge in adolescence or early youth, loss of semen through unnatural means, lack of restraint in married life and failing to follow the rules for fasting, bathing...are causes of seminal weakness. Seeing pornographic pictures or films, reading pornographic literature, etc are also to be forsaken...most cases of this disease are due to overindulgence; so one should keep control over his thoughts and actions. The male should stay away from feminine company as long as the disease is not fully cured. During the disease naes't'hika brahmacarya (complete abstinence) must be observed." (1)

Note: This problem exists all around the globe but even more so in European / western countries, or wherever materialism is in vogue, because of rampant unmarried teenage relations / pre-marital sex. First, young males and females become sexually active and then after many years they may or may not marry. And many times it happened that no marriage ever happens; just males and females continue to live together--i.e  with the opposite sex. And in that condition they produce children, or often times the females get an abortion. And this leads to more and more impotency. This has become quite common these days in so-called advanced countries and one outcome of this is that adoptive agencies are filled with gold coins. They bring children from very poor areas -  like Africa, and parts of Asia - free of cost and sell them to Euro-American countries for thousands of dollars. But the main problem is that both impotence and infertility are on the rise. And this problem is gradually spreading all around the globe. Essentially, wherever materialism is increasing, side by side impotence is also on the rise.

Part and parcel of the problem is that illicit relations are no longer treated as illicit. Young girls tell their father and mother openly that they have sexual relations. And in reply they are encouraged and praised for finding a male. And when the young unmarried female gets pregnant then in one festive atmosphere she and her mate invite parents to join in a baby naming ceremony. So there is no shame involved. 

Altogether in western countries new terms have been invented: "Biological mother" and "biological father". Those not aware should know that it means that the father and mother never got married. Rather the mother ended up marrying a different male. So those children have "two fathers". Their "biological" father who does not live with them, and their "other father" or "at-home" father-- that is the male whom their biological mother married or just lives with. And of course the situation can be reversed also. 

Altogether the ones who suffer the most in all of this are the mothers and the children because in most of the cases male partners leave and choose a new young female somewhere else. So multiple losses are there-- not only sexual loss / impotency or infertility. Multiple drastic negative effects occur such as the ruination of the social structure and also the spread of various types of diseases including AIDS. The root cause is improper education. Tragically, this drastic trend starts at the tender young age of 8 or 9 for both males and females. 

Another point common people are oblivious about is that females are getting exploited. Common people are not aware; females are just treated as sexual tools for enjoyment. Nothing more. And here are more points: 

- This happens in materialistic society because adults have no-control; they severely lack restraint. 
- Then children grow in that environment and by the age of puberty they themselves are producing children. I.e. the "mother" is still a child and she has a child. 
- Because of toxins, chemicals, excess protein, and poor nutrition of company food, the age of puberty is decreasing. So there is less and less emotional maturity when their sexual glands develop. 
- In total, the whole entire scene is way out of bounds. 

Baba's teachings only can save humanity on this critical point.

Reference
1. Yogic Treatments, Seminal Weakness

== Section: Comment ==

Re: How faith develops on God

Namaskar,

For some unknown reason...BABA chose me to see Him. In 1970 I was practicing asanas on my living room floor in the USA at midnight. I had fallen asleep. I awoke suddenly to a radio announcement that there would be a lecture at Carnegie Tech University now Carnegie Mellon. The announcer mentioned Yatiishvaranabda's name so I had my wife call the radio station the next day for particulars.

I called two friends both classical pianists to go with me. They put "yes" and "no" in a hat and pulled a "yes" out if it. So we sat in the back rows amongst so many hippies - almost all college students . 

Dada Y's accent was so strong I couldn't understand him, but the title of his lecture was the Chariot and the Charioteer, which was the title of one of Baba's discourses. As Dada and newly initiated poeple left the hall they walked past  me. I thought this is the real deal. I noticed one brother who wore a pratiika with swastika. I thought these people either are crazy for wearing a swastika combined with Star of David or they are  courageous. For many Jewish students were there. At the time I did not know the ancient history of the swastika or the upward and downward pointing triangles given By Lords Shiva and Krsna. When I was initiated that evening at 3am by Dada Y I was the last of many. He said no more for blood came out of his ear!

When I saw BABA for the first time BABA was delivering discourses about Lord Krsna. How fortunate we are! How very few saw Him talked with Him received His blessing and / or Dharma Samiiksa!

I wondered then as I wonder now - for I do not long for liberation. I long to be near Him always. To be His coolie if need be. He can liberate everyone before me. What kind of gentleman would I be to barge into line before my brothers and sisters? What is the well known want in India? I don't want to be sugar I want to taste sugar.

BABA His greatness the undiscovered mystery. No one knows the secret!

In BABA 

govinda 

USA

- Here is a link to the initial letter on this topic: How faith develops on God

== Section: Important Teaching ==

When will they cast aside the burkas and veils

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “A handful of unprincipled, power-hungry men propagated these [religious] doctrines in order to paralyse women’s reasoning, and to inflate men’s vanity. This doctrine is against nature and we have only to look out into this wide world to find numerous proofs against it. Can anybody drape a burka over a tigress? Is there anyone with enough courage to do it? Can anyone dictate to a tigress, “You cannot cross this boundary,” or “You cannot take part in games and sports, for this is prohibited to women”? Those who propagated these doctrines were not only unprincipled, they were also well aware of the inherent loopholes in their arguments. That is why they did not propagate their ideas directly in their own name. On the contrary, they propagated all those ideas in the name of God. They proclaimed them as the gospels of God; no one shall dispute it; one has to accept it without a murmur. When women will develop a sense of self-respect and be like other spirited creatures, they will cast aside the burkas and veils of servitude. They will then be enabled to expand their role in serving society in a balanced and consolidated way.” (1)

Reference
1. Shabda Cayanika - 9, from “Kaomára”

== Section 4: Links ==

Upcoming Dogma: Father's Day - June 21

Father's Day?

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/06/way-to-shrug-off-responsibility-2-more.html

Mother's Day undermines motherhood

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/05/where-and-why-mothers-dont-like-to-be.html

Postings to Read

How pranayama helps

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/10/why-some-cant-do-proper-meditation.html

Those beings in Shabda Cayanika stories

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2023/06/so-called-ghost-2-more.html

Samskara & rebirth of famous leader

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/07/baba-story-samskara-bhog.html

Types of peace: bad to beneficial

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/11/peace-useful-vs-harmful.html

Fear epidemic & antidote

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2019/10/paranoia.html

How pranayama helps + 7 more

Baba

How pranayama helps

Namaskar, 

It happens that some try and do sadhana but can't concentrate. This letter addresses this problem and offers a key solution.

As many Ananda Margiis know, our sadhana system is unique as it enables us to reach life divine and become one with Parama Purusa. Verily great sadhakas in Ananda Marga aspire towards this aim. The more sadhana one does, the more intimate their link with Parama Purusa becomes. Life becomes blissful.

So our Ananda Marga sadhana system is the spiritual-cum-scientific approach for becoming one with Brahma. Along the way life becomes blissful. All the lessons of sadhana are important. Each lesson serves a particular purpose and complements one’s entire journey of sadhana. That is why not a single lesson should be neglected; all should be regularly practiced. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Link between pranayama & dhyana

Of all our sadhana lessons, dhyana is the most important as it is only with dhyana that moksa is attained. Here below Baba pointedly states that without pranayama, proper dhyana is very difficult.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "There is an inseparable relationship between the va'yus of the body [ten basic energy flows] and the mind. Unsteadiness of respiration means unsteadiness of mind and vice versa. Pra'n'a'ya'ma is the scientific process to control respiration and hence the mind, as a result of which sa'dhana' is especially facilitated. The practice of dhya'na becomes a time-consuming affair if pra'n'a'ya'ma is not adequately practised." (1)

By His above guideline, it is clear that pranayama is an integral link for doing dhyana sadhana. Hence if one is not doing pranayama regularly, then for them sadhana will just remain a dream only.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Delicateness of pranayama & why some skip it

There are many dos and don'ts related with the practice of pranayama. For example, if the air in the room is not clean, or if one’s mind is imbalanced, or if one is not focused on Parama Purusa, then one is not to practice pranayama. The proper understanding of this, of course, is that one should do pranayama regularly, abiding by the aforementioned points.

Unfortunately, what happens is that some sadhakas, due to fear, may skip pranayama entirely. But this habit of unnecessarily skipping pranayama is detrimental as pranayama enhances one's concentration in dhyana whereby one can reach the Parama Purusa. Indeed, Baba guides us that without pranayama, dhyana is very difficult.

Here is a brief overview of some of Baba's teachings about the highly important practice of pranayama.
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Why pranayama is not for non-bhaktas

First Baba describes how the function of pranayama is to control the ten vital airs and by this way the mind becomes concentrated.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "The process by which the pra'n'as in the body are controlled is called pra'n'a'ya'ma. Pra'n'a, apa'na, sama'na, uda'na, vya'na, na'ga, ku'rma, krkara, devadatta, and dhanainjaya – the collective name of these ten vital forces is pra'n'a'h. If you wish to increase your apperceptive power you must control the pra'n'a'h. Through regular practice, the mind will become concentrated. Pra'n'a'ya'ma is meant for sa'dhakas – it is better for non-sa'dhakas not to take the risk of injuring themselves by doing pra'n'a'ya'ma." (2)

So pranayama is one of the key tools for raising our level of concentration and it is a practice aimed specifically for sadhakas. All those materialistic, fake yogiis who do pranayama without cosmic ideation are doing more harm than good. Because pranayama is essentially for those sincerely involved in spiritual pursuits - i.e. the attainment of Brahma.

The main point is that one has to do pranayama in order to control the mind. By skipping pranayama, one’s spiritual progress will be hindered. So a practitioner should do everything possible to be regular in the practice of pranayama and thereby get all the benefits. Here regular means two or four times per day.
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Conclusion

When sadhana is not good then life becomes boring and loses its charm. Those who have experienced good sadhana in their life always long for that. In sahaja yoga there are various lessons that help the main lessons. So all the lessons should be practiced. Pranayama is very helpful so it should be done before the last lesson. By this way gradually the mind will become calm and one will have better sadhana, by His grace. 

Namaskar,
In Him,
Vidya’bhu’s’an’a

~ In-depth study ~

A few questions & answers about pranayama

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

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

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

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

"That is, pra'n'a'ya'ma is the process of breath control along with the imposition of the ideation of Supreme Consciousness. It helps the mind in concentration and meditation." (3)

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

"Answer: Pra'na'n yamayati es'ah pra'n'a'ya'ma. That is, the word pra'n'a'ya'ma literally means “controlling the pra'n'a'h [vital energy]”. The psycho-philosophy behind the practice of pra'n'a'ya'ma is that the spiritual aspirant tries to let the pra'n'endriya [ten vital-energy currents] remain in a state of pause so that the paused unit mind will merge into the ocean of consciousness." (4)

By His above questions and answers we can understand that pranayama is that special process which helps concentrate the mind and ultimately allows the sadhaka to drift in that infinite ocean of Supreme bliss. By this we can understand that we should take every possible effort to do our pranayama properly, 2 or 4 times a day.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Devoid of cosmic ideation pra'n'a'ya'ma is very harmful

Following, Baba issues one of His chief warnings about the practice of pranayama. Baba warns us what will happen if the mind is lodged in a selfish way of thinking when doing pranayama.

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "There are abuses of pra'n'a'ya'ma also. If sa'dhakas during the period of pra'n'a'ya'ma-induced contraction, indulge themselves merely in the parading of their own petty vanity instead of using that force of contraction for the inculcation of brahmabha'va (cosmic ideation); that is, if they devote themselves to the expression of their own little egos, they will gradually tend towards crudeness...Pra'n'a'ya'ma is exceedingly harmful – devastatingly disastrous – for those without cosmic ideation or Brahmabha'va." (5)

So when doing pranayama one should be in a subtle state of mind - focused on the Ista. And, in general, when doing sadhana every sadhaka is involved in thinking and ideating on Brahma, in which case the practice of pranayama will be highly beneficial. So skipping pranayama will hinder one’s progress on the path of sadhana.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Pranayama is a helping lesson

Here is one special point. Many of the things done in the spiritual routine are supportive aspects for doing sadhana. In particular, asanas and pranayama are helping tools for the sadhana lessons of iishvara pranidhana and dhyana, i.e. first and sixth lessons.

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "A'sana and pra'n'a'ya'ma, for example, are helping items. They are not sa'dhana', they are called sa'dhana'unga." (6)

Our other lessons of meditation like tattva dharana (3rd lesson) and cakra shodhana (5th lesson) also fall in the realm of sa'dhana'unga. That is, they are helping lessons for doing the primary lessons of sadhana which are first and sixth lessons, respectively.

So pranayama is an essential element of sadhana which is not to be skipped. Here below Baba guides us about the unparalleled importance of doing sadhana.

Ananda Marga philosophy, "The main purpose of human beings coming here to this earth is to do spiritual practice. One is to render social service, one is to learn, one is to go through books, one is to help others, one is to do anything and everything just to encourage and accelerate the process of sa'dhana'. Sa'dhana' is the main theme of life. Whatever you do in the world, you should do it with a view to promote your sa'dhana' and help the sa'dhana' of others. Human beings come to earth to practise sa'dhana', to move closer to Iishvara, the Supreme Goal – to come closer to Parama Purus'a. Thus, the deeds of human beings will not be like the deeds of animals. Whatever human beings will do, they will do in such a manner that the progress in their sa'dhana' will go on accelerating." (7)

So when sadhana is the main reason for coming on this earth and when pranayama is such an integral element of enhancing and perfecting sadhana, by practicing regularly, one will experience sweet and blissful sadhana.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

One will be getting this divine favour

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "By dint of sa'dhana', one is to arouse and exalt that sleeping divinity. That svayambhu'liunga becomes one with shambhu'liunga. But for this one requires divine help. And I know one is sure to get divine help. And I know further that one is getting divine help. And I know still further that in future, for infinite time and infinite space, one will be getting this divine favour. And you are all sa'dhakas. You will certainly attain that supreme stance and enjoy that divine blessedness. You are sure to enjoy it, my sons and my daughters." (8)

Pranayama helps dhyana sadhana. Hence if one is not doing pranayama regularly, then for them blissful sadhana will just remain a dream only.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

References
1. Caryacarya - 1, Sádhaná, Point #4
2. Caryacarya - 3, Práńáyáma
3. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, Question #11
4. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, Question #12
5. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life - 5
6. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23, 'How to Concentrate'
7. Yoga Psychology, The Human Body Is a Biological Machine
8. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23, Stages of Samádhi

*        *        *

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 ==

Not just an illusion

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

PS Intro: Throughout the vast gift of Prabhat Samgiita, in most songs the bhakta and Parama Purusa are communicating with one another. In some of the songs the style of conversation is direct while others are indirect. When the style of expression is indirect, it is not that the sadhaka is having a conversation with another sadhaka. But the bhakta is communicating with Parama Purusa - using indirect language.

Here in this song, in the first stanza, Parama Purusa is addressing the bhakta; whereas in the second and third stanzas, the bhakta is addressing Parama Purusa. This following song describes the start of creation and how Parama Purusa plays His divine liila, as well as how a sadhaka can become one with Him - by His grace. 

“Arúp devatá rúper deule, kár lági tumi tithi gono...” (Prabhat Samgiita #0365) 

Purport:

Bhakta, the formless Nirguna Brahma has come in the temple of form. He has manifested Himself in the charming form of Taraka Brahma. The Entity for whom You are longing has already arrived. So now, for which Divine Entity are you counting the days? For Whose auspicious advent are you waiting in longing? O’ bhakta, why are you unnecessarily weaving your dreams about those things which are not going to remain forever. Why are you putting all your hopes in this temporary, ephemeral world? To what end are you fully engaged, day and night, in toiling in mundane activities. This world is transitory - today it is and tomorrow it is no more.

Baba, my Bandhu, by Your grace, this world of forms goes on merging into the formless Nirguna Brahma. In due course, step by step, all the entities of this creation become one with Him. He is the final Goal and supreme desideratum of all. Then for what reason or purpose are You fully engaged in Your divine liila of creating this colourful universe of forms and figures when there is no lasting benefit of doing this.

Supreme Guide Baba, I know that Your creation is not just an illusion. And by Your grace, at the same time, I also know that Your flow of imagination - i.e. this creation - is not permanent either. You have blessed me with the understanding that this world is a relative reality that is always undergoing change. In this creation of Yours, everything is a passing phenomena, a moving scene. Then why do You infuse blind attachment in the minds of living beings towards this created world? Due to this, people forget that one day they will have to leave this world, and that they have come here for spiritual practice. Everything else is for objective adjustment. The main goal is that eternal companion God. Due to moha, people lust for power, post, money, and beauty and forget the purpose of their arrival on this earth. They waste their time and die one day without moving even one step closer to Parama Purusa.

My Divine One, please shower Your karun’a’ so I can always remember this eternal truth...

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

Animal killing against neo-humanism

   Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Senseless, sadistic killing is called pishunatá vrtti. If meat-eaters slaughter animals in the way that inflicts the least pain, that is not pishunatá; but if they kill them slowly and cruelly, first chopping off their legs, then their tails, then their heads, it is definitely pishunatá. These days in many civilized countries people are unable to give up meat-eating, but have at least devised modern methods to kill the animals less painfully. But remember, the killing of animals, no matter how it is done, is contrary to the spirit of Neohumanism."
   "Once I saw a harrowing sight in a market place: part of a live tortoise had just been chopped off and sold, but the poor creature was not completely dead and was trying to crawl away, leaving a stream of blood. Such cruel things should be abolished altogether. The cruel slaughter of that innocent tortoise is certainly a case of pishunatá."
   "To kill human beings is totally undesirable, but if people do want to eliminate their [a'tata'yii], they should do so with a minimum of torture. The kings of old used to kill criminals by impaling them on spikes; or by half-burying them in the ground, sprinkling salt over them, and letting the dogs eat them. Sometimes people were flayed alive. These actions certainly deserve universal condemnation." (1)

A'tata'yii: A person armed with weapons who comes to your home to kill you.

Note: In many parts of India, animal torture occurs in the wide open. If you walk around the main vegetable market then in one corner there are non-veg items. Live animals are tortured before your very eyes. It occurs along the roadside as well. One particular religion is most notorious in this regard. They always do this on the roadside. If customers want to purchase a live chicken then the merchant will snatch up a chicken, yank the wings off and throw it in the garbage, callously remove the feathers and snap the chicken’s neck right in front of you. And then they put it in the bag for the customer to take away. It all happens in the open. For meat-eaters this may be normal but for non meat-eaters it is repulsive how they are forced to bear witness to this. It is so disgraceful how people tolerate this in the name of religion.

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell Part 8, The Acoustic Roots of the Indo-Aryan Alphabet

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Only spiritual revolutionaries can lead Prout

Prout philosophy states, “Those who have a correct philosophy and a correct spiritual sádhaná based on the principles of Yama and Niyama will be the guiding personalities in the society of tomorrow. It is the duty of conscious people to snatch away the physical power and the intellectual leadership from the hands of political hypocrites. Politicians are of no use to society because they are engaged in the business of mudslinging and nothing else. If sadvipras [spiritual revolutionaries who follow Yama and Niyama] get active mass support, revolution is bound to come. In case a government adopts the ideals of Prout, the rule of sadvipras will prevail. If the same is not adopted by the government, a physical revolution is sure to come, and ultimately power will be transferred to the sadvipras.” (1)

Reference
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 5, Discourses on Prout, Point #4

== Section: Important Teaching ==

How jubilee celebration to be done

   Ananda Marga philosophy states, "There is a subterranean flow of love and devotion in people's minds for those sages and saints, as those saints rose above narrow sentiments to propagate the ideals of unity and fraternity. Their writings create a stir in people's minds. So the popularisation of these personalities is essential to inspire unity among the masses."
   "The contemporary leaders do not try to give a practical shape to any of the aforementioned human qualities. They merely deliver high-sounding lectures. Those great personalities of the past provide good opportunities for them to organize bicentennial and anniversary celebrations. They consider that by merely uttering a few well-rehearsed sentences, they are paying a wonderful tribute to those great personalities. These leaders do not realize what an important contribution the great personalities can still give to further the country's welfare. Thus the great ideals are disappearing from social life and disunity is increasing among the people."
   "To establish lasting unity in human society, besides the above two sentiments, the spiritual sentiment is indispensable. The unity that grows from the collective psychology in the social, psychic and economic spheres, is the first step towards a greater unity. This can lead to the formation of a nation or greater internal unity in a country. But once the problem out of which the sentiment grew is solved, the common link is broken. That is why for permanent unity a spiritual outlook is necessary." (1)

Reference
1. A Few Problems Solved - 2, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 2

== Section: Important Teaching ==

 
How rich people are real criminals…

In this below teaching Baba is pointing out how rich people indulge in anti-social activities like adulteration, drug dealing, and many other vices and illicit affairs. And they employ poor people to do the work. In result, the poor people get arrested by law enforcement personnel while rich people save themselves by paying bribes or hiring high-powered lawyers. Most of the profit goes to rich people and the poor suffer. Due to their poverty, the poor cannot escape this cycle from one generation to the next. That is why we see that in the ghettos people are perpetually incarcerated.

In this teaching Baba is referring to crude criminal acts as well as white-collar crime. In big business and on the corporate level, the schemes are much more sophisticated. Big banks cheat millions of people out of billions of dollars. Yet, those top bankers are almost never arrested or even charged. They escape because the laws are in their favour, or they hire lawyers to find loopholes in the law. And if they do get caught and are found guilty, then 99.9% of the time those high-level executives do not got to jail. Instead they pay a fine. But if a poor person steals even a single thing they will get arrested and sit in jail for robbery for twenty years.

This happens only in the vaeshyan era and we have to raise awareness to put an end to this.

Prout philosophy states, “Most of the evils that occur in society are created due to the exploitation carried out by the vaeshyas. In order to increase the size of their bank balances, the vaeshyas create an artificial scarcity of such items as food, clothing and other essential commodities, and then earn a profit by black marketeering. Those who do not have the capacity to purchase commodities at exorbitant prices steal, commit armed robberies and engage in other criminal activities in order to obtain the minimum requirements of their lives. Poor people deprived of food and clothing work as the agents of the greedy vaeshyas engaged in black marketeering and smuggling. When these poor people are caught, they are the ones who get punished, while the vaeshyas escape thanks to the power of their money. Such ill-fated poor people lose their consciences and descend deeper into sin. Society condemns these sinners, while the rich vaeshyas, the instigators of the sinners, play the role of public leaders. They wear garlands, set off verbal fireworks, and shrilly exhort the masses to make greater sacrifices.” (1)

Reference
1. Human Society - 2, The Vaeshya Age

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Not all samadhis are great

   Ananda Marga philosophy says, "By the way you should know that samádhi does not only occur as a result of a certain realization; other samádhis can occur on indriyas or the five fundamental factors. When the mind is focused on a particular object and becomes intensely concentrated it is called samádhi. According to spiritual science the samádhi attained when the entire mind is pin-pointed on Parama Puruśa is called prajiṋá samádhi."
   "When a sádhaka focuses his or her mind on the solid factor (solid is one of the five fundamental factors) and thinks “I am the earth” he or she attains kśitibhaetik samádhi, losing all practical intelligence in the process. Those who constantly think about rupees or dollars attain a kind of samádhi, too, for they become completely identified with their crude object of attraction. If such people incur heavy losses due to the collapse of their business or bank, they will die an instant death, for the pillars on which their life was built crumbled beneath them. So, once they lost their wealth, they lost their lives too." (1)

Story of my own cousin

Note: Tragically, my own cousin experienced this type of negative samadhi. During the economic downturn in 2009, he became very worried about his finances. He had an inheritance of 20 million dollars, and he thought he was going to lose it all. He experienced a very strange, deep, dark depression and feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.

Finally, his mind just stopped - and he sat there frozen - completely fixated on the prospect of losing all his money. He sat in a comatose state completely engrossed in thoughts about losing money - everything else in his mind vanished. It was just money, money, money. He skipped his food, ignored natural call, and sat in one spot all day long for almost 1 week. He did not die, but he came very close to death. When at last he emerged from this state, he was totally unaware about what had happened. It was as if he had been in a vacuum.

Baba's warning is that mundane things like money or wealth should never be one's object of ideation. Worldly things are by definition transient. They slip away. And when that happens, people become shocked, even negative samadhi. This becomes very serious for those who were very attached with those objects. They will fall into a state of terrible misery, and perhaps even death.

Best is to goad and point the mind to Parama Purusa. Because if one is fixated on the mundane and prone to that negative type of samadhi then one may remain depressed or even resort to suicide…

In Him,
Sudhiindra

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell, Ekendriya – 7

== Section: Important Teaching ==

How Muslims converted Hindus

  Prout philosophy states, “The second inviolable principle is that people should not be forcibly converted from one religion to another. People will not leave a religion if it is able to guide them properly on the path of Dharma. However, if a religion has a narrow outlook or contains some defective teachings, such as supporting the caste system or oppressing the poor, then people will naturally become disillusioned with it. The followers of other religions will take advantage of these defects and forcibly convert them.”
   “In the past there were many instances when large numbers of Hindus were forcibly converted to another religion. Hindus were fed onions or beef without their knowledge and women were abducted, compelling them to transgress their religious beliefs. As a result, they were excommunicated by the Hindu priests. They were declared outcastes. When those who had instigated the transgressions observed this development, they escalate their campaign of forcible conversion.” (1)

Reference
1. Prout in a Nutshell-16, Three Cardinal Socio-Political Principles

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Definition of true surrender

   Ananda Marga ideology  says, “When human beings feel that, ‘Parama Purusa is my everything’, then that is called as sharan (shelter). No entity can come under the sharan (shelter) of two different things. Then what is the meaning of sharanagati (surrender)? When living beings give up their ‘I-feeling’ by withdrawing the mind from any other object and feel that Parama Purusa alone is my everything.”
   “Up to the time when living beings are thinking that they are working with their own strength, then you should understand that the feeling of sharanagati has not yet come in them. And when human beings think that, ‘I am doing the work only with His strength’, it means the feeling of sharanagati has come in their mind. So when living beings start thinking that, ‘Whatever work I am doing, I am doing with His strength’, then they have the feeling of sharanagati.” (1)

1. Sometimes people get confused and think that if the house is burning then there is no need to do anything - just raise your hands to the sky. They wrongly think that is surrender.

2. Some hypocrites do not have the feeling of surrender within, but when others need their help then they tell them there is no need do anything - just surrender. By this way they shirk their responsibility of helping others. For instance if Mr. X came to Mr. Y saying that,  “My child is sick so please help me.” But Mr. Y is a hypocrite and he does not want to help Mr. X. So Y suggests to X, “Don’t do anything - just surrender to God everything will be alright.” By this way Y escapes his moral duty and keeps his prestige safe through hypocrisy.

3. Some think that whatever strength you have you should use to solve the crisis, and go on thinking. “It is His strength and that He is supplying the energy - and without His energy, I cannot do anything. If He wishes then only will I be rescued - it is fully depending on Him.” Whatever strength God has given must be utilised remembering that He is the final doer.

Of the three above examples, the third one is the best. And the other two are bogus.

References
1. General Darshan, Patna DMC, 1970

== Section ==

हे परम पुरुष! मैं तुम से दूर नहीं रह सकता।

प्रभात संगीत 3780: की दोष कोरेछी बोलो ना, केनो आमार घरे एले ना...

भावार्थ

हे परम पुरुष! तुम मेरे घर क्यों नहीं आए ? मेरी क्या गलती है? तुम तो सब कुछ जानते हो, फिर यह क्यों नहीं जान पाते कि मैं तुम्हें अपने पूरे हृदय और मन से कितना प्रेम करता हॅूं?

हे मेरे प्रभु! तुम्हारे न आने से, इस प्रभात संगीत का लय तान और स्वर व्यर्थ ही रहा, तम्हारे लिये बनाई गयी फूलों की यह माला भी किसी काम की नहीं रही। तुम्हारे न आने से अब इस माला के बनाने और इस गीत की तैयारी करने का कोई अर्थ ही नहीं रहा। हे परमपुरुष! तुम्हारे बारे में सोच सोच कर कभी तो मैं रोता हॅूं और कभी मुस्काता हॅूं, कभी मैं तुम्हारी रूपरेखा बनाता हूँ और कभी उसे पोंछ डालता हॅूं, यह सब मेरे मन में ही चलता रहता है।

हे बाबा! जब मैं अपने मन मंदिर में तुम्हारे ध्यान में बैठता हॅूं, तो तुम वहाॅं पूरे आकर्षण में बैठे मुस्कुराते रहते हो। तुमने मुझे अपने दिव्य आध्यात्मिक रंग में रंग लिया है। तुम्हारे गीत और नृत्य में मैंने अपने को डुबो लिया है। मेरा हृदय तुम से दूर रहना ही नहीं चाहता। मैं तुम्हारे निकट, बहुत ही पास में रहना चाहता हॅूं , मैं तुम से दूर नहीं रह सकता हॅूं।

बाबा! मैं तुम्हें  प्रेम करता हॅूं , कृपा कर मेरे घर में आओ, आजाओ...

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

== Section 4: Links ==

Upcoming Dogma: Father's Day - June 21

Father's Day?

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/06/way-to-shrug-off-responsibility-2-more.html

Mother's Day undermines motherhood

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/05/where-and-why-mothers-dont-like-to-be.html

Postings to Read

Those beings in Shabda Cayanika stories

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2023/06/so-called-ghost-2-more.html

Samskara & rebirth of famous leader

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/07/baba-story-samskara-bhog.html

Types of peace: bad to beneficial

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/11/peace-useful-vs-harmful.html

Fear epidemic & antidote

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2019/10/paranoia.html