Story: bhakti not money is criteria + 3 more

Baba

Story: bhakti not money is criteria

Namaskar,

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “To attain salvation is the birth right of all individual beings. Paramátmá makes no difference between educated and uneducated, rich and poor, young and old – no such external difference has any meaning to Him. He is the all-knowing entity. He judges everything by studying the inner sentiments of individuals. Even the most sinful and most virtuous people are equally entitled to salvation in the eyes of Paramátmá.” (1)

Paramátmá only considers the inner thoughts and devotional sentiments of people. The intense desire to know Him, the deep urge to attain Him, the intense longing for Him – these are the qualities which Parama Puruśa values.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

We are aware that in our Ananda Marga straight and clean conduct - not social status - has far more value and importance than any other quality. A classic proof of this is that during different DMCs, Sadguru Baba graciously treated everyone equally, whether rich or poor. In the DMC pandal, all margiis, irrespective of their nationality or economic status, were sitting on the ground / dusty carpet inside the pandal. It is not that there was a special air-conditioned lounge arranged for wealthy people. Never was it like that. Rather all sat on equal seats before Beloved Baba.


Baba story: dealing with one politician

When one very important political leader, Guljarilal Nanda', came to see Baba, he desperately wanted to have personal contact. However, Baba did not allow him. That time that political leader was holding a very important ministerial post in the Central Gov't of India. In an attempt to get PC, this politician followed Baba from Delhi to the Bombay airport, but Baba refused to give him the time of day-- means he did not get the chance to talk to Baba even. Because Baba maintains only the strictest standards on dharma based on proper conduct.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Baba story: dealing with one capitalist

One time, in the 1960's when Ananda Marga was in need of money for schools, jagrtis and service projects, one wealthy capitalist named Hanuman Prasad Poddar who owned the famous Giita Press in Gorakhpur came to see Baba.

At the time Baba was in Bettiah and Hanuman Prasad arrived there and insisted that he should be initiated by Baba, not by any Wt or family acarya. The margiis and Wts were reluctant but ultimately agreed since they felt they would need to get money from this wealthy man to support our schools etc.

So they brought Hanuman Prasad to Baba's door and he was allowed to enter. Hanuman Prasad approached Baba with a large bag of money in his hand which he promptly offered to Baba. Baba immediately called His PA and ordered PA Dada to take the bag of money over to the window, and drop the entire bag of money outside.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Seeing this Hanuman Prasad ran out of the room to go get the money. Immediately, Baba ordered PA Dada to go over to the door and lock it. And Hanuman Prasad was never allowed inside again. Baba then scolded all the margiis and warned them to never compromise and be purchased by any wrongdoer ever again.


Some review

So this is the way the all-loving Sadguru Baba deals with people-- according to their mental feeling. In other organizations, money often plays a significant role. But His relation with each and every margii is solely based on bhakti, and bhakti alone. And when one has bhakti that is invariably reflected by their conduct. Without proper conduct, bhakti is not possible.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Namaskar,
In Him,
Bhaktiyogii

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell - 4, Bhakti and Krpá

Plagiary?

It is the accepted international standard and Baba's system not to copy another's work and publish it in your own way. Baba has given a very strict rule on plagiarism. Why is Baba against plagiarism or stealing someone's work? There are many reasons:

1) It is against the code of asteya (non-stealing).

2) Countless stories of bhaktas need to be published. But some do not want to do the hard work of compiling and writing these stories, so they just steal them from others. But new stories need to be told, otherwise so many unpublished stories of sadhakas will be lost and forgotten forever. So watch out for story thieves, and kindly help them not to steal by posting on social media in their own way. If you want to forward this story then attach the following yellow section with the story: 

“Courtesy of unknown bhakta via Ananda Marga Universal (https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/)”

This will be treated as the standard protocol.

*        *        *

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 ==

I called You

“Ámár sakal duhkher májhe, ele tumi duhkha harań…” (Prabhat Samgiita #1421)

Purport:

My Supreme Entity, You are Duhkhaharan'. You came when I was feeling depressed, surrounded by sorrows and suffering; my life was unbearable. You came with eyes gazing, silent footsteps, a loving smile, and a charming face. You have blessed me, rescued me from the depths of the deep gorge, and wiped away my tears.

Parama Purusa, in distress I called You and looked towards You. Raising both my hands in full surrender, I cried out and pleaded, "My Lord, please save me; You are my only shelter. I take refuge in You. If You will not save me who will. I am completely depending upon You with full surrender." Then and there, You rescued me. 

Baba, the Supreme One, upon opening my eyes I see Your refulgence has filled the sky. With Your august presence, the whole universe has become enveloped in Your shining brilliance, and my mind and heart are now drenched in Your love. My Parama Purusa, remembering Your glory, singing Your songs with all my heart, and holding Your lotus feet, I surrender unto You…

Note for Prabhat Samgiita #1421:

[1] Dukhaharan': Parama Purusa is the remover of sorrows and suffering. That is why, among His infinite epithets and qualities, one of His names is Dukhaharan' (Dukha= pain or suffering; haran'= to take away). In the Mahabharat era when Queen Draopadi faced humiliation at the hands of her captors, she surrendered fully and was saved. The point is that being the Dukhaharan', Parama Purusa removes a sadhaka's afflictions. Afflictions are of three types: physical, psychic, and spiritual. So when any bhakta is suffering from any trouble or torment in any realm of life then Parama Purusa Baba showers His grace and relieves them of their pain and suffering.

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

Atheism: not a glorified stance

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "Self-awareness develops through clash. The awareness that develops through physical clash is termed jadábuddhi [crude physical intellect] because it is associated with jadá [matter]. The consciousness of animals and undeveloped human beings is matter-oriented. But even in developed human society, if someone is an atheist or a materialist, we can only term their intellect as jadábuddhi. Such people deny the existence of spirituality in order to hide their intellectual deficiencies. Their denial betrays their moral and intellectual bankruptcy. It does not speak of their glory, nor does it diminish the value of spirituality." (1)

Ananda Marga ideology states, "Devotion plays a positive role in the process of clash. Had there been no factor to maintain the balance among all the objects created within the Macrocosmic Mind, the entire structure of the universe would have fallen apart. For the sake of harmony and balance within the universe, there is a mutual attraction among all the objects; each microcosm attracts the other microcosms. All finite microcosms – the innumerable manifestations of the Supreme Entity – are entitled to that universal love with which It has bound each microcosm to Itself, entitled to the wave of that universal love, in which Its divine ocean of bliss is perennially flowing. Attraction is the innate characteristic of microcosms. When this attraction is for finite objects, it is called káma [“physical longing”], and when it surges towards the Cosmic Entity, it is called prema [“divine love”]. Of course, káma is nothing but a limited form of prema. When microcosms rush towards Parama Puruśa [Supreme Consciousness] attracted by the irresistible force of divine love, it is termed “devotion”. Since clash drives the microcosms towards subtlety, it follows that clash must be the sustainer of devotion." (2)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 8, Cosmic Attraction and Spiritual Cult
2. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 8, Cosmic Attraction and Spiritual Cult

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Which languages are good

Prout philosophy guides us, “In the past undeveloped persons used to express their thoughts through gestures and postures. A time will come when there will be no language. With the advancement of science human beings may again adopt new types of postures and gestures, and they may think of using the energy saved by minimizing the use of spoken language for higher pursuits.”

“Intelligent people will evolve a common world language and will not be guided by false, narrow sentiments. Like all other mundane property, languages are the common property of the Cosmic Father. We should love all these languages, hate none, and adopt one of these languages as the world language. As all languages are our common property, we should not oppose the existence of other languages. We should not brand any language as foreign or national.”

Prout philosophy says, “In the present system the English language deserves to be the world language because it is scientific and widely spoken. It would be a great folly for any government to deny this fact. With the change of time future generations may select any other language as the world language. Thus we should adopt a common lingua franca for the mutual exchange of ideas. For this purpose English may be accepted as the world lingua franca for some time more. We should however feel that all the languages of the world are our own languages. No language should be treated as indigenous, foreign or national, and nobody should treat the world language as a foreign language and discourage its propagation.” (1)

Reference
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 15, What is the best language according to Prout

== Section 4: Links ==

Postings to Read

Who gets bored & fatigued

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/07/way-to-get-perennial-inspiration.html

How to achieve social progress

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2018/06/violence-distrust-solution.html

Key tool for sadhakas

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/11/why-introspection-6-more.html

Spiritual success & gurupujanam

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/11/guru-pujanam-guru-puja-are-not-same-3.html

Mental cleanliness in digital era

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/02/force-feeding-mind-3-more.html

Who gets bored & fatigued + 3 more

Baba

Who gets bored & fatigued

Namaskar,

The basic formula is that if you love someone then you do not feel frustrated, bothered, or tired when serving them. It is just like how a mother has endless patience and energy to care for her own child. But that same mother may feel exasperated, depressed, and depleted if she has to take care of others’ children whom she does not have love and affection for. The key point is that when there is love you naturally want to help and please that person. That is the basic function and characteristic of worldly life.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Spiritual inspiration

Similar is the case in the spiritual realm with bhaktas and Parama Purusa. They think that everything is the creation of Parama Purusa, and Parama Purusa wants His creation to be served. So when bhaktas engage in service they think they are pleasing Parama Purusa. The reason is they feel they are fulfilling His desire that His creation should be served. In this equation, the bhakta’s mind is keenly linked with Parama Purusa so that bhakta derives perennial energy and does not get tired.

In the case of worldly life, a person gets some energy, but eventually that individual invariably gets tired and fatigued as well. Even new mothers become fatigued and exhausted. The same is at stake with married couples. If they really care about each other, one will be able to serve their spouse to some degree, but at some point they will grow weary.

Here is the overall formula:
(a) If there is a lack of love then when trying to help that person one will get tired immediately.
(b) In worldly attraction if someone wants to please their loved one then they will have some energy to expend before getting tired.
(c) In spiritual life if a bhakta wishes to serve the Supreme Entity then that sadhaka never gets tired, rather they will derive perennial energy from the Eternal Source, by His grace.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Conclusion: Why non-bhaktas get frustrated & tired

Non-bhaktas lust after sensual pleasures and ephemeral desires. Their minds are not ensconced in any type of spiritual flow or ideological engagement. Rather, they do each and every activity for their ego satisfaction (i.e. name, fame, fleeting glory, prestige etc) and the satiation of their vrttis (lust, greed, indulgence). Those external activities are draining for them. They are not self-sustaining endeavours. Only a bhakta's life is propelled forward by the essence of their own activities.

The proof being that in difficult conditions those non-bhaktas get tired and fatigued etc. Those worldly pursuits become unbearable and overwhelming for them. They suffer in all kinds of ways: psychic tension, obesity, disease, worries, depression, fear, divorce, etc. They cannot maintain their flow; their approach is not self-propelling. They become fatigued because whatever they do is done to satisfy their own petty ego. That is why they get tired. They do not have any greater ideal. So they are not getting perennial inspiration from the Supreme Entity. Their pursuits are extraneous and become exhausting and deflating. Those engagements give them terrible tension in life. So if anyone is frustrated in this way we should conclude that he is not a bhakta.

Bhaktas think that everything is the creation of Parama Purusa, and Parama Purusa wants His creation to be served. So when bhaktas engage in service they think they are pleasing Parama Purusa. Reason being they feel they are fulfilling His desire that His creation should be served. In this equation, the bhakta’s mind is keenly linked with Parama Purusa so the bhakta derives perennial energy and does not get tired.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

In Him,
Trikal Darshii

~ In-depth study ~

Bhakti propels one closer to the Goal

On the path of bhakti, that bhakti becomes the life of the bhakta. Sadguru Baba guides us that one gets their vital energy from that bhakti - by serving the society, by singing kiirtan, and by doing dhyana. For bhaktas, these pursuits are energizing; it brings bliss; and it is their natural way of living.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "You know, jina'na is a practice. Karma is also a practice. But bhakti is not a practice, it is a principle. It is something quite natural, and naturally associated with your life. So, when one becomes a [bhakta], one becomes natural in one's mode of life." (1)

Jinanis and karmiis involve in intellectual pursuits and mundane works for their own ego satisfaction. That is how they boost themselves up. But invariably, their inflated ego bursts and they come crashing down. Bhakti works in an entirely different sphere. It is not something external. A bhakta's spiritual practices propel them closer to the Cosmic Entity, by His grace. That inner flow is the essence of who they are. Such persons are true bhaktas.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Progression onto the path of bhakti

For those general people who have not yet tasted the sweetness of bhakti, step-by-step we should bring them onto the path first by helping them to do jinana yoga and karma yoga. And by doing a little jinana yoga and karma yoga, then they will begin to internally feel the force of bhakti as they incorporate different spiritual practices - like sadhana and kiirtan into their life.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "And what about karma yoga and jina'na yoga? They are the necessary preparatory phases for bhakti. You have to practise karma yoga and jina'na yoga. Through that practice you will ultimately be established in bhakti." (2)

It is not that sometimes bhaktas do jinana and karma. This is never the case. Because the work jinanis and karmiis do is for their own unit prestige and ego etc. That is why they suffer from vanity, and that is why mostly their lives are filled with frustration. Because they are principally involved in their own little ego. Whereas bhaktas are never on the path of jinana or karma. When they engage in action then that is also part of their inner spiritual flow because what they are doing is done in service to Parama Purusa - to please Him. This special state of top bhakti is known as parabhakti.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Why the general society cannot understand

Baba's many discourses and beautiful explanations demonstrate how bhakti is such a unique force - an unparalleled force. It is the highest quality in life. In materialistic society, bhakti is neither recognised nor valued. People do not place emphasis on bhakti. Instead, it is viewed as a liability - as something that will hinder one's ability to do work in this world.

So, on the one side, Baba says bhakti is everything, and on the other side regular citizens think that bhakti is meaningless, and has no practical value. In order to understand the greatness of bhakti one has to first colour their mind in that flow of bhakti. Without that, one cannot grasp its beauty and inherent nature. From the outside one cannot know.

Just as a thirsty person cannot grasp the importance of water until they drink some; similarly dry, materialistic-minded people cannot ascertain the essential nature of bhakti until they taste that. That is why they remain blind to the fact that real bhakti is the greatest force in this universe and that with bhakti one gets everything.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "As soon as you are established in bhakti, everything will be yours; you will have nothing more to attain." (3)

Seed vessel of this topic

Here, in seed form, Baba explains the entire shloka that is the focal point of this topic.

Bhaktir Bhagavato seva', bhaktih prema svaru'pin'ii;
Bhaktira'nanda ru'pa' ca, bhakti bhaktasya jiivanam.

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "Bhakti means rendering service unto Parama Purus'a. It is of the nature of love and a'nandam, or bliss. It is verily the life-force of the bhakta." (4)

If one is always using their time for sadhana, kiirtan, and pracara etc, then we know that person is a veritable bhakta. Because a bhakta's mind is always inclined towards Parama Purusa - always trying to please Him and basking in His bliss.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

References
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 24, Bhakti, Mukti and Parama Puruśa
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 20, “Prańipátena Pariprashnena Sevayá” – 2
3. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 20, “Prańipátena Pariprashnena Sevayá” – 2
4. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 33, 'Bhaktitattva'

*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Fighting strategy & compassion

The following is a revolutionary tale from Baba’s story book: 

“O prince ! Now there is no way to recede or retreat. Now we will have to fight with him face to face. Don’t worry at all. We four will create a stir among the young people and they will help you in large numbers. Though the demons are powerful, they are very few in number. If human beings have a proper understanding of their rights, and unitedly stand to establish these rights, all the strength of the demons will disappear just like a piece of straw before a current!”

The four friends of the prince then set out on their respective duties. They sent the message of a famous poet of the Kingdom of Light to all the young people of that country. “Awake, brothers and sisters! Today you will have to awake and stand up against the tyranny of the demons! You will have to stand unitedly to fight against them. The hollow message of peace is meaningless today. As long as the demons are alive, the message of peace is sweet to hear, but is of no use to the society.

“The forces of destruction are spreading venom in all directions. The sweet gospels of peace have been reduced to mockery. Before I depart I send my clarion call to those who have been preparing themselves, in every home, for the battle against the demons.

“The huge wastes of the villains will never add any glorious chapter to human history.”

Young people joined the struggle in large numbers. They said, “We have promised our everything to bring an end to the reign of the demons. We have borne tyranny for a long time – but no more! Wearing ragged clothes we have supplied the commodities of enjoyment for the demons – but no more. We want to lead a life worth living. All the wealth of this universe is the common property of all living beings. We won’t tolerate deception any longer! We want food, clothes, shelter, medicine and education. We want to lead an honourable life.”

The prince said, “These are the very words I wanted to hear from you. We want the end of the demonic rule. But before discharging the final blow, the opponent party should be given a chance to amend itself; that’s why we want to give the strange demon a chance.” (1)

Reference
1. The Golden Lotus of the Blue Sea

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Festivals: key for any society

   Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Every human being likes utsava [festival]. It is the desire of all that they will rejoice unitedly. In Europe Puritanism failed in the end, only because the Puritans failed to care for the desires of the general public. They preached their theory only to a handful of devotees of knowledge.”
   “Ananda Marga is for the general public. So, considering the necessity of the general mass, proper importance has to be given to the utsava in social life. Excitement in a utsava is the greatest in the children, in the tender aged boys, in the youths and last of all in grown ups. In the programmes of a utsava, therefore, you shall think for the children first. Their sweet stammering noises ensure the success of the utsava. But whatever arrangements you may make for the children, the youngsters, youths, or for the grown-ups, make that there is no dearth of discipline even to the minutest extent anywhere. Let there be complete harmony. ” (1)

Reference
1. Táttvika Diipiká (Dvitiiya Parva), Point #4 - Utsava

== Section: Important Teaching ==

TP distortion: anything but Hindi

The Tiljala in-charges have employed Bangalisation in a variety of ways. The following discourse, "Treading the Broad Path of Spirituality", stands as yet another example.

Below is an excerpt from the Electronic Edition publication of this discourse. Baba is telling a story about the King Akbar and his minister, Birbal. Tiljala Publications (TP) indicates that Birbal replied in Persian. But actually, Baba guides us that Birbal replied in Hindi. And although Tiljala publications printed Birbal’s reply in Hindi, those same publishers credited it as being Persian. This clearly depicts Tiljala publication's aversion towards mentioning of the term - Hindi. See here below that passage from the Electronic Edition:
 
Ananda Marga ideology states, "There is a fine story to illustrate this point. Once King Akbar said, “Birbal, can you please tell me something which will make a happy man unhappy and an unhappy man happy?” Birbal replied in Persian, “Aesá din nehi rahega” (Such days will not remain forever). This can be said regarding everything of the world." (1)

It is sad Tiljala Publications has printed Birbal's above reply in Hindi yet stated it was in Persian. Those who know Hindi will immediately recognise what Tiljala Publications has done. They printed the Hindi sentence - which Baba actually spoke in Hindi - yet labeled it as Persian. 

When something is clearly written in Hindi, it is deceptive and shameful to intentionally label it as Persian, in order to push down Hindi.

Note: Baba actually has given this discourse in Bengali, in Kolkata. And this one statement of Birbal, Baba spoke in Hindi. Baba never said Birbal gave the reply in Persian; Baba simply spoke Birbal’s reply in Hindi. But Tiljala Publications could not accept or acknowledge the fact Baba spoke Birbal's reply in Hindi. So Tiljala Publications wrote that Baba replied in Persian. But that is wrong. 

In Him,
Nandita’ Chakraborty

References
1. Ánanda Vacanámrtam Part 4, Treading the Broad Path of Spirituality (10 November 1978 morning, Kalikata.)

== Section: Topic ==

 
Baba's pictures should NOT be shared

Namaskar, All

I have written on this time and time again. And I feel it is time once again to say something. Baba's pictures should NOT be shared on social media. They should not be the banner of any group. They should not be on anyone's Facebook page, etc. None of that! Stop!

We must put a stop to this practice. We must be EXTREMELY discriminating about where and when we disseminate Baba's picture. Baba has made this clear in His ideology. But let us also look at it this way:

Baba's photographs are integral to our spiritual practices. He is guiding us, and He has given Himself to us. His pictures are precious, to be cherished and guarded. Baba Nam Kevalam. The Lord is mine and mine alone! So why should I share Him? I should not share Him. I should be a first class devotee and not share Baba's pictures, ever. His image belongs to me and me alone.

If you want to become an acarya and sell, or better yet, give His picture to a devotee, with proper instructions on how to handle, that is one thing. Otherwise, keep Baba's picture to yourself. Of course this includes video. This is not for mass consumption. Baba belongs to His devotees, which happen to be margiis. If you are a devotee of Baba, most likely you will be a margii. Doesn't that make sense? Follow 16 points and don't share Baba's pictures.

Just by cleaning up this mess, that is, stopping the misuse of Baba's photo, we will undoubtedly make Ananda Marga much stronger. Can you not see that? Just as Baba belongs to the devotee, so, Baba also belongs to Ananda Marga! We must not share Him indiscriminately. All margiis must condemn this practice of sharing Baba's pictures. The future of Ananda Marga depends on it.

A friend of mine has complacently said that the genie has been let out of the bottle. There is no putting him back. I don't agree with that attitude, and I much doubt that Baba would, either. We must demand complete change in attitude about this matter. If you want to gaze at Baba's picture, become a margii. That is how it should be. Do you not think Baba would agree with this?

His image should not be on the cover of books. His video should not be on social media. Etc. Please observe and respect the Divinity of our Lord's image. His pictures are among the most precious and cherished gifts. His image is sacred. It is blasphemous and plain stupid to scatter His pictures indiscriminately everywhere. Ananda Marga suffers.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "You shall protect, in all respects and at all costs...the sanctity of...pratikrti [photo] of Márga Guru." (1)

in Him,
Bhaskar

Reference
1. Caryacarya - 1, Treasures of Ananda Marga

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

How to achieve social progress

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2018/06/violence-distrust-solution.html

Key tool for sadhakas

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/11/why-introspection-6-more.html

Spiritual success & gurupujanam

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/11/guru-pujanam-guru-puja-are-not-same-3.html

Mental cleanliness in digital era

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/02/force-feeding-mind-3-more.html

How to achieve social progress + 4 more

Baba

How to achieve social progress

Namaskar,

In today’s society, there is a growing number of people dominated by a selfish nature. Politicians and bloodsucker capitalists have shown the path to the general public on how to lead a selfish life. Many politicians sow doubt and question why one should pay taxes for education when one does not have children; and, they promote similar notions that foster selfishness. In the world, about 50% of people are uneducated, and they do not understand sophisticated policies set by the politicians. 

https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

It is the responsibility of the teachers, researchers, economists, and others who are educated to hold their feet to the fire and ensure those politicians propagate the right ideas. Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar provided Prout philosophy, and it is the duty of Ananda Margiis around the world to spread the philosophy of Prout. If people follow Prout philosophy, they will make it their own. For example, in a village no one knew about yoga, and one yogii gave a lecture on yoga, and 10 people liked the idea. Those 10 people practiced yoga, and became yoga teachers. Over time, more people became interested, and yoga spread around the world.
 

Move together in a society

When one thinks about the whole society, by considering the society as their own, then one develops the social responsibility to take care of all. Baba said that in ancient India when masses used to go on pilgrimage by foot, if something happened to one person’s health, then everyone would stop and ensure that the unwell person was fit, and then only would they resume their journey. They would not leave anyone behind. Baba says that if a society has to wait to bring everyone together it is better so that everyone can move together. That is best for the progress of society. If a society fails to wait for someone who was left behind and instead moves on without them, then that society is not good.

Let us say that there are two groups, namely group A and group B, who are making a journey to a destination.

https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

(a)  In group A, when a person is unwell, then others wait instead of moving ahead, to ensure that the person is alright. And when the person becomes healthy, then they move together. If the person is unwell, then the people in group A will put the unwell person on their shoulders and move along towards their destination. 

(b) In group B, when a person is unwell, then others in group B leave the unwell person behind and move ahead towards their destination. 

Which group is better? Even though the speed of movement of group A is a little slower, there exists a feeling of brotherhood and cohesiveness. Whereas in group B, they left the unwell person behind and moved along without them. This demonstrated that they did not care for everybody. 

Baba says group A is much better because there will be peace and togetherness; everyone will care for each other to build a wonderful society. Sama’nam ejati iti samaja -- everyone should move together in a society. Baba wants us to build such a society.

Religions did not aim to build one society

Religions did not think of forming that type of society. Each religion propagated philosophies to benefit a certain group or class. For example, when a group of Muslims live in a village, they will only care for other Muslims. And when they see a non-Muslim, they do not hold the same feeling of togetherness as they have for their fellow Muslim. Similarly, where Hindus live, brahmins have a feeling of togetherness towards their fellow brahmins, not for others.

Increasing the periphery of mind

One other outcome is that when one group of society is left behind they will attack others who are moving forward. So leaving a group behind is not a good idea. If one group is mean-minded and exploiting others, there will not be any peace in society. 

https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Unhappiness and discontentment arise in society for two reasons. First, people are being neglected, and as a result, they will attack those who neglected them. The reason they will attack is because they were left behind or deprived of their needs. Second, one group has strong love for everyone in their group, but they exploit anyone who is not in their group. Both reasons display mean-mindedness and are not good; both are condemnable. 

Baba says when you have love for your own clan then extend that love beyond your clan to the whole world by thinking everyone is the child of Parama’tma’. Capitalism and other selfish philosophies propagate the idea that no one is mine except myself. This feeling is extremely mean-minded and anti-social. 

People often say that, “I need to take care of myself”, or “I am going to a restaurant to treat myself by eating good food”. Or they say, “Lately, I have not treated myself well, and today I am going to do something special for myself.” This type of feeling is a representation of extreme mean-mindedness. By spreading Prout philosophy, slowly selfishness and capitalism will be removed from society.
 

Conclusion

AM philosophy says that the whole world is one society. Everyone is my own. With this type of feeling, love for each other will increase in a society. A lot of problems which exist today in the world or the new ones arising every day can be prevented by developing togetherness and removing self-interest by thinking the whole world is one society, and everyone is my own.

In Him,
Nirakar

They march ahead, singing in unison

Prout philosophy states, “What is society like? It is like a group of people going on a pilgrimage. Try to imagine the scene! Suppose one of the pilgrims is struck down by cholera. Will the rest of them continue on their way, leaving the sick man behind? No, that would be inconceivable for them. Rather, they will break their journey for a day or two, and cure him of his disease. If he is still too weak to walk they will carry him on their shoulders. If some people run short of food, others share what they have with them. Together they share their possessions, and together they march ahead, singing in unison. In their eagerness to move ahead with others they forget their trifling differences which might have led to angry exchanges and court cases in their families, even down to three generations. It is because of the petitions of the complainant in a land dispute that some people go so far as to spend ten or twenty times more than the piece of land is worth. The essence of cooperation resulting from this collective movement aims at expanding a person’s mind by striking down the barriers of meanness. I repeat that a true society is like such a group of pilgrims who attain a deep psychic affinity while travelling together which helps them solve all the problems in their individual and social lives.” (1)


“Human beings of the world, unite!”

Prout philosophy states, “Sadvipras will firmly declare, “All human beings belong to one race. Everyone has equal rights. Human beings are brothers and sisters!” These sadvipras will sternly warn the exploiters of society, “The exploitation of human beings cannot be allowed!” and, “Religious hypocrisy cannot be tolerated!” Giving a clarion call to the fragmented human society from beneath the saffron flag, the symbol of service and sacrifice, they will proclaim at the top of their voices, “Human beings of the world, unite!” (2)

References
1. A Few Problems Solved Part 6, The Spirit of Society
2. Problems of the Day, Point #37

*        *        *

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 ==

Garland in hand

"Álor rathe ásbe tumi, áj jáni nishcaya nishcoy..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0978)

Purport:

My Parama Purusa, by Your mercy, I know that You will certainly come today riding the chariot of refulgence. And You will remove the darkness of ignorance and avidya maya from my mind and make me fearless.

Baba, day and night, I waited for You with a garland in hand. So much time passed in this way - just I was watching for Your august presence. At long last, on this night, all my doubts have vanished; the auspicious hour has arrived. I see that You have come - You are here, my nearest One.

Parama Purusa, in the resonance of Your tune and on the stage of the insurmountable brilliance of the hiranmaya loka, I have been ensconced in Your dhyana for ages, counting the prahara and tithis for Your exquisite arrival.

Baba, today You have come; I received Your causeless grace. My Lord, I surrender everything at Your lotus feet...


Notes for Prabhat Samgiita #0978:

[1] Resonance of Your Tune: This is a metaphor. When the sadhaka's mind reaches the hiranyamaya kosa and hears the omnkara sound, that is the "resonance of His tune." That is what the sadhaka is experiencing in this song.

[2] Insurmountable Effulgence [Dyuti-te Durjay]: Because of its brilliant effulgence it is very difficult to go beyond the hiranmaya kosa. In deep meditation, when the mind reaches up to the hiranmaya kosa, then one sees only a golden effulgence. In that state, the sadhaka becomes one with the Cosmic Mind, i.e. mukti. Beyond that is satya loka where Nirguna Brahma resides. When one reaches satya loka, that is salvation, moksa. Because of its unimaginable and exquisite effulgence, the hiranmaya kosa is insurmountable. In that state one can get mukti, but not moksa. That is what has been described in this Prabhata Samgiita.

The hiranmaya kos'a is the subtlest layer of mind, and Nirguna Brahma resides beyond the hiranmaya kos'a. So when the mind is below satyaloka, the sadhaka does not realise Nirguna Brahma. They do not attain salvation. To realise Him, the mind must go beyond the hiranmaya kos'a. Thus, only when the mind reaches beyond the hiranmaya kos'a can one merge into Parama Purusa. Hence, the hiranymaya kos'a is the final gateway for reaching up to Him. And the colour of the hiranmaya kos'a is golden and there one hears the omnkara sound. Beyond that state, in satya loka, there is no sound and there is no colour. The sadhaka merges in the bliss of expressionless Nirguna Brahma. That is salvation, or moksa.

To cross that golden effulgence of the hiranmaya kosa, His grace is needed. Without His grace, it is not possible to get moksa. In the above song, the sadhaka has been basking in the effulgence of the hiranmaya kosa, waiting for Parama Purusa to shower His grace and lead him across - i.e. grant Him salvation.

Ananda Marga ideology says, "The subtlest expression of mind is in the hirańmaya kośa, which is the first expression of mahattattva. Establishment in this kośa in a universal manner is Savikalpa samádhi. When after emerging from the Samśkara, the hirańyamaya merges in attributeless Brahma, then this is called nirvikalpa samádhi." (1)

Ananda Marga ideology says, "Hiranmaya Kos'a: In this kos'a the body [or] even the knowledge of 'I' is not much in evidence; the consciousness of individuality is present, ill-defined and unclear. This is the subtlest layer of mind around the a'tman.  In fact, the feeling of 'I' is reflective in this kos'a only because of its close proximity to the vijinanamaya kos'a. Here sattva is dominant, rajah is less and tamah is least."

Hiranmaye pare kose, Virajam Brahma niskalam (Vedas)

"This kos'a is derived from the Tapah or Hiranmaya loka; its name means 'made of gold' and hence it is as pure and beautiful as gold.  The Satya Loka which is the finest loka in the cosmic mind and where Brahma resides does not exist in the form of a kos'a because kos'as are limited while satya is unlimited and imperishable.  Satya loka cannot therefore be part of any limited and perishable body formed of five kos'as.  In Satya loka the a'tman alone exists; only due to the influence of Prakrti five kos'as or realms come into existence." (2)

[3] Prahara: A measurement of time equal to 3 hours.

[4] Tithis: One day in the moon calendar. In the moon calendar, each month is comprised of 28 days.

References
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 1, Call of the Supreme
2. Tattvika Praveshika, Some Questions and Answers on Ananda Marga Philosophy

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Animalistic fad

Alert: this below teaching from Baba is not for hardcore gay people and their fanatical supporters. This is for sincere Ananda Margiis. 

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "An animal life is given to carnal pleasure human life is for sádhaná." (1)

In Ananda Marga, human life is for sadhana; thus the mind must be guided in this way. Yet that is impossible if one is plunged in sexual dealings etc. Indeed, if one is indulged in sex solely for the sake of sex, as is the case with homosexuals / gays etc, then sadhana is not possible. Such types of persons cannot understand Ananda Marga teachings. They cannot grasp that the mind should be goaded towards Parama Purusa. An aspirant should remain in Brahmabhava throughout the day. Then sadhana will be successful, otherwise not. So the mind should be trained accordingly. Gay / lustful sexual relations undermine this endeavour.

Alert: this above teaching from Baba is not for hardcore gay people and their fanatical supporters. This is for sincere Ananda Margiis. 

Reference
1. Caryacarya - 2, Sadhana, Point #4

== Section: Important Teaching ==

You know exponentially more than I know

"Toma'r ka'che ca'ite giye lajja' peye ela'm phire..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0652)

Purport:

When I came to You I was thinking to request You to grant me some boons. I came to You harbouring so many worldly desires. But without asking for anything at all, I returned in shyness because I understood that You know and fulfil all my needs and requirements far better than I. Baba, all within Your mind.

Baba, whatever little I know about myself, and whatever I think is mine, You know exponentially more than that. Whatever my needs may be, You go on giving without my even asking.

Baba, You are my eternal Bandhu and have saturated my heart with Your colourful, charming attraction and affection. Everything will undergo change in this transitory universe, but the garland of love which has been born in my thoughts and mixed with divine love will never perish. Baba, You are most loving…

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

Key tool for sadhakas

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/11/why-introspection-6-more.html

Spiritual success & gurupujanam

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/11/guru-pujanam-guru-puja-are-not-same-3.html

Mental cleanliness in digital era

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/02/force-feeding-mind-3-more.html

Game plan of vaeshyas

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/12/shortage-of-viksubdha-shudras-6-more.html

Way to increase bhakti

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/11/enemy-of-sadhana.html