Join Our Email List: Write us at anandamargauniversal1@yogasamsthanam.net

▼

Unete a nuestra lista de emails: escríbenos a anandamargauniversal1@yogasamsthanam.net

▼

Monday, February 26, 2018

Mechanical kiirtana + 2 more



Baba

Mechanical kiirtana

Note: Without patience this point will be unclear.

Namaskar,

At a recent satsaunga gathering, when kiirtan finished I came across my old friend Devi. I asked her, “Could you serve & please PP in your kiirtana?” She said, “No, it was very difficult and tiring for me today.” I asked what happened.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


New trick ruined Devi’s kiirtana

Devi replied, “All my energy was spent holding the hands fixed at one place. I followed those new suggestions that were announced before kiirtan to keep the hands in namaskar mudra at the anahata cakra. And I did not want to bring down as it would have been terrible. So the entire time in kiirtan I suffered in pain and still I feel sore.”

I said that, “You have been doing kiirtana for years and years. Does this problem happen every time?” She replied, “No, never. This is the first time. It was announced to do like this. And I purchased one book today and there I read the same thing.”

I asked, “Whose book?” And she told, “It was some Dada’s book. And what was written in that book ruined my kiirtan.” She was so sad about it.

Then I told her, “Now you got the lesson. Do not read Dada’s books read only Baba’s books.”

One jinani wrote in his book, “Start with the namaskara gesture... If the arms become tired, again do the namaskara gesture, and keep the hands in the namaskara position at the anahata cakra. (If out of feeling one is prompted to clap the hands, one may do so) Finish kiirtana also by doing namaskara.” (Taraka, 2003 Edn, p. 206-07)


Everyone has their own limitations

In lalita marmika, i.e. when dancing kiirtan, Baba's guideline is that the hands should be above the shoulders. That is the ideal way. However, Baba did not say what to do when one is tired and cannot keep the hands at that height. It is obvious that when one can no longer do the standard, ideal process of dancing kiirtan, then the aspirant should do what they can. Everyone has their own limitations. So there is no need to forcibly guide others about what they should do when they can no longer maintain the ideal method. It depends on the individual. They should try their best to be as close to the perfect posture as possible - but that will vary from person to person. There is no need for someone to issue an edict or back-up protocol. People will do what they can do.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Jinani is poking his nose

It is just like how the standard procedure for sadhana is to sit in padmasana. If one starts sadhana in padmasana and after sometime it becomes painful, then one may do whatever is necessary to ease the pain. Caryacarya does not prescribe what should be done when a person can no longer maintain the ideal posture. It is not written as it varies from individual to individual.

Tragically, now a similar thing has happened with regards to kiirtan. Baba has told that the ideal position of the hands is above 90 degrees. But one jinani is poking his nose. This jinani has ordered that if the hands get tired then one should hold them at the ajina cakra or anahata cakra and keep them there, and not allow them to come down. But making such an edict creates another karmakand - i.e. the same type of dogmatic ritual that Baba mocks Hindus for doing.

Sadguru Baba notes how certain religions do various postures in their rituals and then those ritualistic postures become the dominant aspect and those religious seekers forget about the main thing - i.e. worshiping the Supreme Entity. And in this instance, when the sadhaka is doing kiirtan and some jinani is ordering them to keep their hands fixed at the anahata or ajina cakras, then they spend their whole energy keeping the hands fixed in place - worried that if they don’t then some terrible thing is going to happen.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


T. added ‘Karmakanda’ to kiirtana process

So Baba has given one simple rule that the hands should be above 90 degrees. And that everyone tries to do. But then Mr. Jinani added seven more rules:
(a) arms should be held high with the palms open
(b) elbows should not go below the shoulders
(c) start with the namaskara gesture
(d) if the arms become tired, again do the namaskara gesture
(e) keep the hands in the namaskara position at the anahata cakra
(f) if out of feeling one is prompted to clap the hands, one may do so
(g) finish kiirtana also by doing namaskara

Baba has given one guideline which is very simple but this jinani made kiirtan parallel to Hindu Karmakand - i.e. dogmatic ritual like Semitic religious dogma which Baba mocked in His teachings. So in any situation when so-called jinanis poke their nose then it becomes sour and ruins the things. It is akin to a rat jumping into a huge pot of curry that was prepared for a grand feast; then the whole thing is ruined. Here a similar thing happened with Mr. Jinani’s set of rituals for kiirtana.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Conclusion

The purpose of kiirtan is to concentrate the mind on Parama Purusa. If anything comes on the way and disturbs your mental flow then that defeats the purpose. So bhaktas are always very alert not to get bogged down by extraneous do’s and don’ts and external rituals. They keep their mind fully focused on their object of ideation, Parama Purusa Baba. The aim of kiirtan is to concentrate the mind on Ista. If anything distracts you from this endeavour, that defeats the whole purpose of doing kiirtana. So, as far as possible one should keep the hands above 90 degrees when doing kiirtana; thereafter one may keep their hands wherever they like, but the mind should always be fixed on Ista.

In Him,
Paara’gati

Heavy wooden log and sadhana

One day I saw Ratan came to attend akhanda kiirtan at the district headquarters. He made quite a long multi-hour journey. When he reached the jagrti I was surprised to see he was holding a heavy wooden log. Out of curiosity I asked him what he was doing with this. He told me that this log helps him in sadhana. I was wonderstruck how a log could help him in sadhana. I asked him from where he was bringing this. He told he carried it from his village - and that he traveled 5 miles on foot and then took a 2hr bus ride. And he carried this heavy wooden piece all along. With more discussion, I found out that one acarya told Ratan to do this and he took it very, very seriously. Since then wherever Ratan goes he carries a wooden log with him even to Ananda Nagar. After seeing the situation I understood that this is the way dogma starts.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Baba has given the procedure how to properly sit in padmasana and one acarya made a rule for Ratan to take help from firewood by putting it underneath his knee to relieve pain. Now a lot of Ratan’s energy is invested in carrying this firewood with him wherever he goes. What penance. Similarly, Taraka’s fictitious rule about kiirtan enlisted above harms innocent sadhakas. Their mind is more worried about keeping their hands on anahata cakra than thinking about Parama Purusa Baba. I wish I were wrong.


~ In-depth study ~

Baba’s teachings

The truth is proven again and again: Never read Dada’s books otherwise you will fall in one ditch. If you are fortunate then you will come out only to fall in another ditch - from which you may never escape. That is exactly what has happened here.

Baba has given a simple guideline for doing ideal kiirtan and now one jinani has infused his own set of guidelines to keep the hands at the anahata cakra or ajina cakra. Yet, Sadguru Baba never told to do that. Just He has graciously instructed us that in kiirtan the hands should be at the height of the shoulder or higher. And if a person gets tired or cannot do this then it is up to them to decide what is suitable. One should forget about this edict given by this jinani that one must touch the anahata or ajina cakra. That is a trap given by a misguided intellectual - avoid it at all cost.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Religions always prescribe various ritualistic observances like lighting lamps in a particular way, holding candles in a specified manner, sitting one way or standing another way, counting beads a certain number of times, etc. Only approved people are supposed to worship particular deities, fixed sacerdotal fees are to be charged...altars are to be built in a particular way, and so on. While following such rituals, the mind is engrossed in religious rites and material objects, so how can it move in an ideational flow to a devotional goal? Those who follow a particular religion are supposed to kneel down and stand up a specific number of times, so naturally they are always counting their movements, consequently their minds cannot be withdrawn from physical movements and external activities.” (1)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “In psycho-spiritual approach, this angle must be more than 90 degrees. This shows that your hands are now at the mercy of Parama Puruśa. Your hands are in this position [up], not by your psychic power, but because of the mercy of Parama Puruśa your hands are in this position. So, in Lalita Mármika, hand must be more than 90 degrees.” (2)

References
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 21, How to Unite Human Society
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 14, Kiirtana and Dance / The Psychic Order


*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Utility of world government

Prout philosophy states, "With advances in technology, the mastery of human beings over space and time will continue slowly to increase, so the necessity of a world government, also, will be profoundly felt. Gradually the people in one region of the world will have to interact more with the people in various other regions, and in the course of this interaction they will have to try to understand one another better." (1)

Here Baba is teaching how in a gradual and natural course the world government will be established on this earth. And in a mundane way things are already moving in this direction. For example, there are millions of international and global organisations. Similarly, hundreds of thousands of corporations have a global administration. And in many families, their relations are working and living in multiple continents. And that is growing every moment. On a daily basis, tens of millions of people are crossing borders and traveling across the planet for various reasons. By this way individuals, corporations, and NGO’s are already global. And the political level will take place very soon. Not only that there is hardly any country that is not connected with another country. So there is a need. The European Union is an example of uniting various countries together. This is a step in its own way on this issue. And we have already a dysfunctional United Nations organisation and the formation of the world government will be the next step.

Reference
1. Problems of the Day, point #20


== Section 3: Links ==



Legal Notice: ©2018 Ananda Marga Universal Forum. All rights reserved. Ananda Marga Universal Forum content is the intellectual property of Ananda Marga Universal Forum or its third party content providers. Ananda Marga Universal Forum shall not be liable for any errors or delays in content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Any copying, republication or redistribution, part or full, of Ananda Marga Universal Forum content, including by framing or similar means, is against the court of law and expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Ananda Marga Universal Forum.


This email contains three sections:
1. Posting: Mechanical kiirtana
2. IT: Utility of world government
3. Links

Monday, February 19, 2018

Democracy is menacing: on some matters + 3 more

Baba
Democracy is menacing: on some matters

Namaskar,

We live in an era where democracy is seen as the ultimate form of leadership and governance. Here we examine important ways how democratic rule undermines unity in society.

Prout philosophy states, “There are occasions when majority decisions do not create unity in society because people are more or less divided on an issue. In such circumstances, the leaders should be very cautious when making their decisions, and take special care to safeguard the interests of everybody. In particular, they should select a course of action which does not harm the sentiments of any group. For example, suppose there are seven brothers in a joint family, and these brothers are divided on an issue. Four brothers may be on one side and three brothers on another. If the head of the family takes a decision based on the wishes of the majority, the family will be divided into two groups. Therefore, a decision should be taken which safeguards the interests of all the brothers.” (1)

Up till now, amongst the various political systems, democracy is the best of a bad lot. The ideal system will come in the future. Until that time, we must stick with democracy, despite its pitfalls and limitations. On certain occasions, the democratic approach works well, but in many circumstances the result of majority rule is harmful. There are many delicate issues that should not be decided by the democratic process because such majority decisions harm the sentiments of the people, thereby leading to disunity and division. That is the warning given by Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar, the Propounder of Prout. Here are a few practical examples from the greater society.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Majority decision: sparked anger, alienation, & disunity

(A) After Indian Independence, using the democratic process, a majority decision was taken to make Hindi the national language. Tens of millions of people were extremely displeased and angered by this decision, especially in South India. That led to chaos and bloodshed within the country, and national unity was lost. This was clearly a case where a majority-based decision went against the well-being of the country, and failed to protect the interest of all. Thus, on sensitive issues, a democratic, majority decision sparks anger, alienation, and disunity.

(B) In certain Middle Eastern nations, the majority Muslims made Islam the national religion, thereby alienating those citizens who followed a different religion. This too led to infighting, socio-religious tensions, and disunity among the populace. Here again we see that a majority decision led to the fragmentation of society. Thus, on sensitive issues, a democratic, majority decision sparks anger, alienation, and disunity.

(C) For decades Pakistan and Bangladesh were one nation. But majority leaders of Pakistan suppressed the mother tongue (Bengali) of Bangladesh. In addition, those Pakistani leaders imposed various rules and laws. The people of East Pakistan felt suffocated and in result broke away and formed their own nation, i.e. Bangladesh. This also shows how a majority vote by Pakistani leaders led to a divisive outcome. Thus, on sensitive issues, a democratic, majority decision sparks anger, alienation, and disunity.

(D) One key factor in the 2016 US presidential election was the issue of gay rights / homosexuality. That had become a trademark issue of the Obama administration and the democrats in the preceding years (2008 -2016). They spurred and passed much legislation on this issue. And while they gained much of the gay vote by 2016, that was dwarfed by even deeper divisions and a bigger backlash throughout much of the country. In that rigidly split terrain on core issues like gay, the democrats lost the presidential election in 2016. Thus, on sensitive issues, a democratic, majority decision sparks anger, alienation, and disunity.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Why majority rule cannot work at a university

(D) Here is another avenue of life where a democracy or majority rule cannot work: A college or university. At these institutions the student body numbers in the thousands or even tens of thousands, while the number of faculty and administrators is far, far less. If majority rule was applied, then students could grade their own assignments, write their own letters of recommendation, and change the rules according to their own liking – everything from academic requirements to alcohol and drug use to male-female relations etc. The institution would suffer on all fronts. That is why no academic college operates by majority rule. Rather there is a distinct leadership, both in the classroom and in the administration. By that minority rule, the university develops and grows.

Conclusion

The overall point which Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar has given is that the democratic approach does not bring social harmony if a majority decision is made on certain sensitive issues. On various occasions, the rule by majority is fine. Yet there remain numerous instances related with delicate topics where a majority decision alienates and angers many people, ultimately causing division and disunity. Care and caution are needed to build a unified society. According to the teachings of Prout, simply resorting to majority rule will not do.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Namaskar,
In Him,
Prakash

~ In-depth study ~

Prout philosophy states:
"Now let us discuss some reforms to democracy. Democracy cannot succeed in countries where people are illiterate, immoral, or backward. Countries like England, the USA and France are suitable for democracy, but even these countries need to introduce some reforms.”

"First, legislators in the states and at the centre should be elected on the recommendations of the people at large. At the time of electing representatives the people should pay heed to their education, moral standard and sacrifice for the society etc. If the representatives are elected keeping in view these factors, they will not be guided by party interests but by collective interests. In their minds the interests of the entire human race and society will dominate, and not any class interests. They will be able to enact laws keeping in mind the problems of all and sundry, thereby accelerating the speed of social reconstruction. Their impartial service will bring happiness to all."

"The voting rights should be vested in educated persons who have political consciousness and awareness of people’s problems. Age should not be a bar to voting right. If illiterate people are given voting rights there is the possibility of antisocial and incompetent representatives being elected."

"To provide a fearless and independent ambience to the administration, the secretariat should be kept free from pressures from the cabinet. The cabinet should confine itself to legislation, the passage and passing of the budget, the implementation of its plans and policies, defense etc. The power of ministers should remain confined to the parliament and they should not poke their nose into the workings of the secretariat. The chief secretary should not be under the president or the prime minister but should act independently as the executive head. All the secretaries should work under the chief secretary. Free from cabinet pressures, every department will serve the people well."

"In the present system the judiciary functions under a cabinet minister, and pressure from the minister may impair its independent functioning. To remove this defect and to ensure impartial justice, the judiciary should have the right to function independently. In no case should the chief justice be treated as inferior to the president or the prime minister. Only moralists and honest persons should be installed on the hallowed seat of justice. If people fail to keep this issue under their close scrutiny, injustice will take the place of justice."

"[[Finally, for the proper utilization of the nation’s revenue and to ensure that every paisa is spent on building up the nation, it is extremely important that the audit branch as well be independent. The auditor general should be independent of the president. Only the independence of the auditor general can ensure that this branch will be able to fearlessly check the accounts of every other branch. Thus it should be a separate administrative branch of government, and independent of the party holding a majority."

"All the four branches mentioned above should be given the scope to function independently. Thus there will be four compartments. No compartment will function under another.]]"

"But in such a situation there is still the possibility of injustice and exploitation. So to supervise or monitor the function of all these compartments, the benevolent dictatorship of the board of Sadvipras is required so that spirituality will reign supreme." - 17 July 1961, Bettiah, Bihar (2)

References
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 16, Three Cardinal Socio-Political Principles
2. Prout in a Nutshell - 14, Compartmentalized Democracy


*        *        *

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

*        *        *


== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==
Baba, for a long time I was oblivious of You
“Tumi ese chile ese chile káche t́ene nile…” (Prabhat Samgiita #2114)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, You came into my life. Prior to Your arrival, I had no idea about You. Yet You brought me very close and coloured my mind in Your spiritual colour. You are unparalleled. You gave me everything - all the good things I desired, as well as whatever I did not deserve. On my own, I had no merit to have such gifts, but You blessed me with them.

O’ Parama Purusa, in the past I was drowned in materialism. I never even thought about You. I had completely forgotten You. You woke me up, made me aware, and showed me the proper path. Step by step, You guided me how, in this human body, one can realise Parama Purusa and attain mukti and ultimately moksa. It is Your krpa’.

Baba, in the past I had nothing which I could call my own. I had neither a spiritual goal nor any sadhana. My life was as dry as a desert. You drew me near and gave me everything. Now I realise that with Your grace everything is possible. Even crude, spiritually blind people who do not have any cosmic vision can develop a subtle inner eye and attain liberation and salvation. Their life could be wholly changed. It was my mistake that for a long time I was oblivious of You.

Baba, I have nothing to say. You have given me everything - words fail to express all You have done for me. Your causeless grace is unforgettable...


== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

Why respecting all religions is bad​

Ananda Marga ideology states, “Some intellectuals are in favour of respecting all religions. I say that such people cannot do anything to promote the solidarity of the human race, for most religions demand blind faith rather than rationality from their followers. “Don’t argue,” they proclaim. “Accept the teachings of the scriptures for they are the direct word of God.” The cunning intellectuals of the past imposed the importance of blind faith on the minds of their gullible followers. They told them to obey the teachings, rational or irrational, otherwise there would be no respite from the endless suffering of human life, no other path to take them to the eternal bliss of heaven.” (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 7, Form and Formless


== Section: Hindi Quote ==

अगर यही तुम लोगों की

“अधिक से अधिक कीर्त्तन होना चाहिए | कीर्त्तन से मन शुद्ध होता है | मस्तिष्क सीधा हो जाता है | काम करने की प्रेरणा तथा प्रेषणा मिलती है | इसलिए अधिक से अधिक कीर्त्तन होना चाहिए | अगर यही तुम लोगों की राय है, तो मैं भी उस राय से सहमत हूँ | मन पवित्र हो, शुद्ध हो, और तुम लोग कल्याण की राह पर चलते रहो |”

[यह प्रवचन-अंश, बाबा के कैसेट से सीधे लिखा गया है । बाबा का यह असली प्रवचन, अमृतोपदेश है। आनन्दमार्ग हिन्दी पुस्तकों में छपे प्रवचन तो नक़ली प्रवचन हैं, असली नहीं हैं -- बंगालीकरण (बँगलाइजेसन) के तहत उनकी बर्बादी की गई] (1)

Reference
1. अप्रकाशित भाग, 3rd June 1990, DMC, “The Cult of Spirituality, a Cult of Pinnacled Order”


== Section 4: Links ==


Legal Notice: ©2018 Ananda Marga Universal Forum. All rights reserved. Ananda Marga Universal Forum content is the intellectual property of Ananda Marga Universal Forum or its third party content providers. Ananda Marga Universal Forum shall not be liable for any errors or delays in content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Any copying, republication or redistribution, part or full, of Ananda Marga Universal Forum content, including by framing or similar means, is against the court of law and expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Ananda Marga Universal Forum.



This email contains four sections:1. PS #2114: Baba, for a long time I was oblivious of You
2. Posting: Democracy is menacing: on some matters
3. IT: Why respecting all religions is bad​
4. Links


Thursday, February 15, 2018

Valentine’s Day & AM + 2 more


Baba

Valentine’s Day & AM

Namaskar,

The pseudo-culture “holiday” of Valentine’s Day is celebrated in many parts of the world on 14 February. As sadhakas, we should clearly understand the forces at play so we can best guide the society. After all, if the disease is not understood, the patient cannot be cured. Similarly, we should know the modus operandi, i.e. degrading tactics, of events like Valentine’s Day so we can lead people onto the path of sadhana.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Path of negative pratisaincara

There are basically two paths in life: the one of baser propensities towards animality, and the one of refined inclinations towards divinity. On the cycle of brahmacakra, human life emerges from animal life. So people are well acquainted with those degrading animalistic tendencies. Falling prey to those attractions does not take any skill. Already they are lured in that direction.

That is why many readily embrace Valentine’s Day because it is grounded in mundane, sensual allurement. Valentine’s Day is all about exciting the lower propensities which in turn invites their psychic degeneration. People are misled to believe that worldly passion will bring them happiness and if they have a happy Valentine’s Day then their life will be fruitful and joyous. But those beastly propensities can never satisfy human longing. And as their mind becomes fully involved in those bodily desires, they march quickly on the path of negative pratisaincara, i.e. back towards animal life. That is the “gift” of Valentine’s Day. Yet sadly people are goaded in that direction and become enamoured with Valentine’s Day.

So those involved suffer; and, side by side, another horrible outcome is that impressionable youths get indoctrinated into the materialistic notion that crude romance is everything. This is the value that gets imposed. Idealistic youths want to find love but ensnared by materialism they end up looking in the wrong direction. Pseudo-culture holidays like Valentine’s Day set off a vicious cycle that entices a large swath of society, from one generation to the next.

And once they become indulged in that way, it is not an easy escape. Because when any negative vrtti like lust is encouraged, then that vrtti multiplies and grabs a greater hold of the mind. The person becomes more deeply entrapped.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “The peculiar nature of these...propensities is this: if they are given indulgence, they increase.” (1)

So these degrading propensities are no different from addictive narcotics; the more you take the more addicted you become. Unfortunately, all those debased vrttis surrounding Valentine’s Day have the same awful effect. People literally become drowned in those lustful desires and invite their ruination.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The path of tantra

The path of Ananda Marga tantra is entirely different. It is natural as it brings people further along the path of pratisaincara and leads them towards mukti / moksa, by the grace of the Supreme. And that is the natural movement of human life, from crude to subtle. All through one’s various animal lives one is progressing until finally they are blessed with human life. Those who succumb to materialism are dominated by baser propensities and revert back to animal live. Whereas those humans who adhere to the path of tantra progress reach the Supreme rank.

One of the key elements for success is to understand that the mind should never be controlled by the bodily organs, i.e. degrading propensities. Valentine’s Day pushes one towards crude sensuality. In contrast, as sadhakas, we are taught that sex is for procreation and society building, not for pleasure or happiness. And that is the case with all of lower the propensities. We are not to indulge in those; rather we are to channelise the mind towards the higher realm through sadhana.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “The human propensities that operate in the mundane sphere are five in number: áhár [food], nidrá [sleep], bhaya [fear], maethuna [begetting progeny] and dharma sádhaná [spiritual practice]. Of these five, only the first four play a part in the lives of animals. The peculiar nature of these five propensities is this: if they are given indulgence, they increase. And they easily come under control with a slight effort; only in the initial stage, one must struggle a little to control them. Of these propensities, the first four are primarily physical and secondarily mental, and the fifth one is equally physical, mental and spiritual. The amount of the first four required for physical and mental health is minimal; but the need of the fifth, dharma sádhaná, is unlimited – the more the better. If the need for any of the first four is channelled into the fifth, then so much the better, there may no longer be any necessity for that propensity at all.” (2)

Doing more and more sadhana leads to unlimited bliss and happiness while the baser propensities submerge one in animality. As sadhakas, we have to practice and teach others that by exerting a little discipline initially then one can free oneself of the trappings of those degrading propensities. That means goading the mind towards the spiritual plane.

Remember the paths of asakti (worldly / crude attachment) and bhakti (love for Parama Purusa) are mutually exclusive. They cannot co-exist. If one gives in to the degrading ways of pseudo-culture mentalities like Valentine’s Day, there is no scope for bhakti. Both paths cannot be pursued simultaneously. So one should pay heed accordingly.

Conclusion

By adhering to Sixteen Points and the path of sadhana one will establish themselves in an ideological flow. And that will ensure one’s progress. Giving in to the dealings of Valentine’s Day is the antithesis. We should help others advance on the path and save them from reverting towards negative pratisaincara, i.e. animal life.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga ideology states, "Human life, unlike animal life, is an ideological flow. Where there is no ideological flow, in that case, even if the physical structure is just like a man, he is not a man, but is an animal. So each and every human being must try his best to maintain the special status of humans. It is our first duty. It is our fundamental duty. This ideological flow must be maintained at any cost." (3)

In Him,
Prabakar

~ In-depth study ~

Devious ploy of capitalists: Valentine’s Day

The modern version of “Valentine’s Day” is the brainchild of capitalists who are eager to employ sentiment to entice people to purchase their products. By this way they exploit the common people in a very indirect and cunning way. They say, “Show your loved one how much you are, by buying her this…”, or “If you really want to improve your romance treat her on Valentine’s Day etc.” By this way the business community sells massive diamond rings, flower bouquets, boxes of fancy chocolates, expensive dinners, etc. In the USA alone, in 2016 consumers spent $19.7 billion dollars on Valentine’s Day

Businesses create the psychic hunger in the customer's mind that, "You need these products". Capitalists do this with even the most unnecessary items. In response the innocent public feels that, "Yes it is very essential for me to have those things. I must purchase them." By this way capitalists empty the pockets of the unassuming masses.

So the pseudo-culture holidays like Valentines’ Days is the invention of capitalists. Their sole aim is for the common people to run out to the stores and buy more products - i.e. special commercially produced items that give the message that this is what you need to have a happy Valentine’s Day.

Prout philosophy states, "Capitalists, in their singular or collective roles, exploit society through their gigantic propaganda machinery, and create unhealthy, artificial demands which not only poison the mind but encourage dangerous habits detrimental to psychic sanctity and expansion." (4)

Such type of mentality is the cause of the invention of the growing phenomenon of Valentine’s Day. Because in this way capitalists get a huge benefit. And although it started in the western materialistic areas, now it is spreading step by step around the globe and the so-called third world countries strive to emulate so-called first-world states. So the disease of this capitalistic venture is being passed on to other places around the globe.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

References
1. Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Disc: 16
2. Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Disc: 16
3. Subhasita Samgraha - 12, Man and His Ideological Desideratum
4. Prout in a Nutshell - 12, The Parts of the Economy

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

I cannot remember my Ista mantra and Guru

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

Purport:

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

O' Parama Purusa, the star which came down from the heavenly, spiritual, radiant bosom of Taraka Brahma, a particle of that star’s supreme effulgence filled my mind  with divine ecstasy. It has inundated my existence in supreme bliss.

Baba, the Parama Purusa, the supreme love which You have poured in my heart - the affection that You saturated in my mind - always vibrates my being and brings me to the divine world. The melody that You played within my mind, today with that tune and melody I do sastaunga pranam to You again and again. O’ Prabhu, You are the most compassionate One.

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


Legal Notice: ©2018 Ananda Marga Universal Forum. All rights reserved. Ananda Marga Universal Forum content is the intellectual property of Ananda Marga Universal Forum or its third party content providers. Ananda Marga Universal Forum shall not be liable for any errors or delays in content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Any copying, republication or redistribution, part or full, of Ananda Marga Universal Forum content, including by framing or similar means, is against the court of law and expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Ananda Marga Universal Forum.


This email contains three sections:1. PS #0838: I cannot remember my Ista mantra and Guru
2. Posting: Valentine’s Day & AM
3. Links

Sunday, February 11, 2018

Diorama & bhakti

Baba

Diorama & bhakti

Namaskar,

In His each and every expression and action Baba is goading and guiding our minds towards a more subtle and deeper understanding - in all the spheres of life: physical, psychic, & spiritual etc. This every sadhaka in Ananda Marga knows. Thus when Baba has personally supervised and guided the best artists of Bengal to create specially hand-crafted, detailed dioramas depicting the lives of Lord Krsna and Lord Shiva, then we know that those dioramas must hold great significance and value.

At the same time, it is very intriguing why Baba has created specially designed dioramas which intricately show Lord Krsna tenderly communicating with the young maidens of Vrindaban in such an intimate fashion. And that is what is discussed in this letter.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

AMPS: males & females separate

In our Ananda Marga, Baba is very strict about male-female relations. Everything in our Marga is separated according to gender. First, and perhaps foremost, there is a distinct department in Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha exclusively for women - i.e. WWD (Women's Welfare Department). That stands as one monumental way in which everything on the organisational plane is done separately between males and females.

Then in our Ananda Marga education system, all of the instruction imparted after the primary level is done in single-sex classrooms and homogenous learning institutions. In Ananda Marga schools, males have other males as their peers and are taught by male teachers etc. And females have other females as their peers and are taught by female teachers etc. Plus sadhana instruction in Ananda Marga is only given from male to male and from female to female. Dadas handle the initiations of all the brothers; and Didis teach meditation to all the sisters. Everyone is well aware that Baba has very carefully instituted this system.

In addition, at our social functions, males and females are not encouraged to intermingle; rather Baba warns us against such practices. (Ref: CC-1) And, at dharmacakra male and females sadhakas sit in different rows and do their dances separately. Even in the sphere of Guru-disciple relation, things were carried out differently according to gender. For example, no individual margii sister or Didi would receive PC (personal contact) by themselves. Rather it was always done as a small group - with other sisters present. They did not go into Baba's room alone for PC. Whereas with brothers that was the standard protocol.

So, our entire way of life in Ananda Marga is divided according to gender - along male-female lines. Each has their special and distinct role. Top of all, Baba was extremely strict if that boundary was crossed. More explicitly, in the unfortunate event that anyone ever engaged in illicit relations with members of the opposite sex then Baba always dealt very, very seriously with such cases.

So from start to finish, in our Ananda Marga males and females each have their own separate and distinct role. The demarcations between the sexes is very clear-cut.
Keeping all of the above in mind, it is very intriguing to think why Baba has created specially designed dioramas which intricately show Krsna tenderly communicating with the young maidens of Vrindaban in such an intimate fashion. That is a point of intrigue. Here is another aspect of the puzzle to consider.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Traditional Indian society

In general, in Indian culture, there is a long history and established tradition of very dignified and separate relations between males and females. For hundreds and thousands of years, male-female relations have been kept quite separate. The open and free mixing of males and females is not condoned in traditional Indian society. And if that boundary is transgressed, then those guilty parties are shunned by the society - until the matter has been fully rectified.

So male-female relations in traditional Indian village life are very well delineated. Indeed, even after marrying, all the males of the household sleep in one separate structure together. And all the females of the house stay in an entirely different area. So from this view it is clear that the Indian subcontinent follows a tantric oriented life - where males and females honourably live their lives in a separate fashion. All these codes and guidelines were originally given by Lord Shiva and Lord Krsna. And in that way the Indian sub-continent grew up according to the tantric code.

Traditional Indian life is not exemplified in other places around the globe such as in certain regions like GT sector etc where males and females are openly seen kissing and touching one another on the streets and gallivanting around town together. In traditional Indian village life, none of this is acceptable.

All this raises the very interesting question: Why is it that the Divine Personality whom religious followers reverently worship and adore as the Supreme God - i.e. as Lord Krsna - extremely close with and compassionately attending to the personal needs of the maidens of Vrindaban. And why are Baba's own dioramas moving along this similar theme. This is a very curious phenomenon. Especially when in the Indian society and in our Ananda Marga such strict mandates about the sanctity of male-female relations have been established - i.e. staunch separation of the sexes.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

       
Diorama #1: Krsna & females

For a more detailed view of this entire situation and discussion, here is a brief description of one of Baba's beautifully designed dioramas about Lord Krsna's days in Vrindaban. In one particular diorama, the young Krsna with his long flowing hair is shown sitting under a tree in the forest with one leg delicately crossed over the other knee. The flowers of the forest are in full bloom and Krsna is elegantly dressed in colourful gowns. He is also wearing a flower garland around his neck; in His hand He is preparing to play His divine flute. And His gaze is very intent and focused. In the background there is a picturesque flowing river and overhead the brilliant sun is shining brightly. In that romantic scene, Krsna is surrounded by no less than 10 young, attractive maidens of Vrindaban - all dressed in beautiful saris. They are completely enamoured with the handsome Krsna. Some of the young maidens are standing very close by looking at Him directly, while others have their eyes closed and just seem to be treasuring the moment. Two of the maidens are sitting in line with Krsna, both playing musical instruments. And by looking at the whole scene, one thing seems sure: They all look like they are captivated and enamoured by Krsna's beauty and charm.

Diorama #2: intimacy with young maiden

Then there is another diorama that shows an even more intimate scene. In this next diorama, there are huge, majestic mountains in the background and in the foreground the forest is full of flower blossoms. The spring season is alive: Two deer are moving along the forested riverbank; beautiful swans are swimming about; lotii flowers are in full boom. And  in the front-center, at the confluence of two deeply blue rivers, Krsna and one young maiden, are standing upon one grand floating lotus flower.

The special maiden along with Krsna is none other than Radha. And the enchanting Krsna is standing in a beautiful pose - with some toes pointed toward the ground - and He is playing His divine flute. Beside Him, the young maiden Radha is intimately holding on to Krsna. Her tender cheek is up against his broad shoulder, and her arms are around his waist and torso. And her half-closed eyes are looking up towards Krsna. Krsna is adorned with flower garlands and seems to be 'lost in reverie' as He is casting a faraway gaze. Altogether the scene is brimming with love.

The above representations are a few of Baba's many magnificently designed dioramas about the early days of Lord Krsna in Vrindaban. And as is quite apparent, Baba is openly showing the beautiful Krsna accompanied by the close companionship of the young maidens of Vrindaban.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Baba showcased dioramas in His museum

Here again it should be emphasized that the above described dioramas are not something which were brought to Baba as a gift. Rather with His own precious time, Baba imparted explicit and detailed instructions to the most talented artisans available to specially craft these dioramas. And throughout the 1980's, over the course of many months, these remarkable dioramas were made per Baba’s exact guideline and approval. Each one is beautifully set in a wooden case and enclosed with glass. And all are displayed in Baba's specially allotted museum room. Baba has given great importance to this project. These dioramas are meant to be treasured.

Evaluating the entire subject, it becomes more and more interesting why Baba has given such tremendous value to these hand-crafted dioramas when many of the dioramas strikingly present the young Krsna intimately engaged in the company of the fair maidens. Because we all know that in Ananda Marga ideological teachings, Baba emphasizes that there must not be the free mixing between males and females.


Method of teaching new subject

Here we have to continue one key element: The field of spirituality is very high and quite mystical and esoteric for the common people. Everyone is certainly aware that sadhana and spiritual life are extremely important - this is well-accepted. But the height of spirituality and magnitude of sadhana is not commonly known. In that case, how can it be conveyed?

Let's take a practical example. Suppose you wanted to tell an ordinary citizen from the west about the sweetness of a particular item such as ghur (molasses). In that case one cannot use rasagolla as a comparison or model. Because people in the west do not know about rasagolla. So the term rasagolla will not give them any hint or insight that ghur is also wonderfully sweet. Because both those items - ghur and rasagolla - are unknown to them. Whereas if one says to those western citizens that ghur is like chocolate, then everyone in the west will easily understand that ghur is something very delicious and tasty. Because all are aware about the special sweetness and wonderful taste of chocolate.

Here the key point is that when teaching any person about a new subject, then one must always proceed from what that person already knows and then proceed to that point which they are not aware about. That will make the matter clear; the topic at hand will be better understood.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Diorama: unveiling the deep secrets of bhakti

The inner depths and hidden meaning of sadhana and spirituality are not commonly known. The greatness and special longing of sadhana and dhyana are mostly an unknown phenomenon. Thus to unveil this and bring the realm of bhakti into the public domain and to present the intimate wonders of sadhana to a greater number of people, Baba had to associate spiritual life with something crude that was commonly known to all.

In every land, human beings understand the crude attraction between males and females. This comes within everyone's realm of understanding. People commonly think that the male-female crude attraction or sexual attraction is one of the strongest forces. They see it manifest each and every day of their lives. It is a common sight in the regular society.

In that case, in order to unveil and display the inner secret meaning of spiritual life, in order to explain the tremendous magnetic attraction between bhakta and Bhagavan, Baba has used the well-known subject of crude male-female relations. Because everyone understands that the sensual attraction towards the opposite sex, or even the same sex, is something very strong.

This analogy or this comparison creates a link that enables people to begin to understand that deep sadhana is something far, far greater. By this reference, it can begin to be understood or contemplated that when a bhakta has strong love for their Ista then that type of strong magnetic very sentient and spiritual attraction comes in meditation.

But this type of very sentient and spiritual attraction & realisation is not an ordinary point; many cannot grasp this idea. It is a very high expression that is only known to a few blessed sadhakas. It is something very great to aspire towards - something which is not even experienced by most margiis etc. So without any type of explanation the large majority of the population could never imagine the inner joy and deep sentient and spiritual attraction & realisation of sadhana. But by this type of crude tamasik comparison with human crude sexuality, then that opens the gateway for them to get a shadow, glimpse of understanding about the wonders of mysticism.

Without that type of crude comparison the inner secrets of very sentient and spiritual attraction and realisation in sadhana would remain something out of reach, far away, and unknown.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Conclusion

Considering the whole matter, by thinking deeply on the topic then we can understand that in those dioramas the depiction of Lord Krsna with the young maidens of Vrindaban is something symbolic. Baba is not espousing the glories of the free-mixing of the sexes, but rather He is so carefully unveiling the inner secrets of spiritual life and dhyana.

Generally, people turn to God for material boons - not for the attainment of spiritual bliss. If they want bliss, then they seek out sensual pleasures like wine etc. This is the common perspective. Here Baba is guiding us indirectly that one should seek bliss in their spiritual life and relationship with the Divine.

Namaskar,
In Him
Guruseva’

~ In-depth study ~

How artists try to inspire the people

   Ananda Marga philosophy says, "The true characteristic of love is supra- physical – beyond the bondage of any limitation. When artists become absorbed in the essence of love and try to convey it to the people through their language, rhetoric and subtle suggestions, the sweetness of their artistic genius reaches the apex of expression. But then this creation of the artist cannot be regarded as popular literature or art, because the subtle sense which is capable of comprehending that transcendental feeling is, in fact, undeveloped in most people. We do find at places in the literature of Rabindranath Tagore some semblances of this pure, supra-physical love, but whenever Rabindranath tried to give expression to it, he became unintelligible to the masses. The transcendental thoughts and ideas of the sweet, graceful shlokas [couplets] of the Upanishads are also incomprehensible to the common people."
   "This sublime love has established itself for all eternity beyond the limits of time, space and person. Infinite love is the ultimate ecstatic expression of finite love. This sense that artists try to awaken in the popular mind, when they devote themselves to the task of establishing the link between the finite and the infinite, between the mundane and the transcendental – this awareness, though not purely transcendental, is of the greatest importance in the realm of art. Because it gradually leads that sweetness of the human mind which is apprehensible to ordinary intelligence to a dreamland that is beyond the senses. Rabindranath’s poem “Úrvashii” is a composition of this type. There is no dearth of physicality in the poem, nor is it difficult to understand, and yet its crude material expression gradually expands into a subtlety beyond understanding." (1)

Baba's special teaching about Krsna and Radha

This following teaching by Baba sheds more light on this entire subject.

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "The Cosmological Nave is called Krs'n'a, because He attracts everything. Krs'n'a means "the supreme charmer", "the supreme attracter", who attracts everybody towards Him with the help of His -- what? His supreme flute. That supreme flute is Krs'n'a. He creates universal acoustic waves, and those waves bring people towards Him; that is why He is called Krs'n'a. And microcosms come in contact with Krs'n'a with the help of that particular expression of sentient vidya' shakti which is known as Ra'dhika' shakti. And when with the help of Ra'dhika' shakti the microcosm comes in contact with the nave Krs'n'a Purus'ottama, then we say it is the union of Krs'n'a and Ra'dha'. Krs'n'a is not a male being of Vrindavan, and Ra'dha' is not a lady. You should understand it properly...it is the divine force, and it is the devotional principle, it is devotion." (2)

Summary

In these dioramas which Baba has specially designed, He is most beautifully teaching one and all about the deep and inner secrets of bhakti and dhyana. That solves the mystery and removes any ambiguity about why Baba has depicted Krsna that way in His dioramas. The reason is that was the best way to begin to teach people about the great intimacy, love, and attraction that can be had in sadhana and bhakti.

Here is Baba's gracious assurance that in our own personal sadhana we will all experience the great heights of true spiritual attraction and bhakti.

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "You will certainly achieve that supreme stance and enjoy divine blessedness. You are sure to enjoy it, my sons and my daughters." (3)

Mundane attraction versus divine love

Here below Baba makes a clear-cut differentiation between mundane allurement (ka'ma) and true spiritual love (prema).

Baba says, "If one's attachment is channelised towards any supra-psychic or spiritual object it may be called 'prema' or love'. But love in the physical and psychic spheres is called `ka'ma' and not 'prema'... Ka'ma means the endeavour to obtain certain things in the physical and psychic levels. So bhakti and prema are only applicable in the case of Iishvara. This ever-flowing mental thought-wave channelised towards Iishvara is the highest human achievement." (4)

Ananda Marga sadhana is about the cultivation of bhakti. And by His grace we will all reach this pinnacled point.

Baba says, "Prema is the attraction for Parama Purus'a overcoming the attraction for all other finite objects. Those who are endowed with such divine love are bound to receive the grace of Parama Purus'a -- they need not worry about it. If they practise the spiritual cult regularly...Those who arouse devotion through action and knowledge are certain to attain the grace of Parama Purus'a." (5)

Ananda Marga ideology states, “कोई भी मनुष्य ऐसा नहीं है जिनमें साधना करने की शक्ति नहीं है, आराधना करने की शक्ति नहीं है | यह जो ह्लादिनी शक्ति, concentric force, इसी की बदौलत मनुष्य आराधना करते हैं—इसलिए इस शक्ति का और एक नाम है राधिका शक्ति अथवा राधा | ये जो परमपुरुष, ये जो ब्रह्मचक्र के बीच में हैं, जिनके लिए आराधना; वे ही हैं सब कुछ | साधना के द्वारा मनुष्य जब परमपुरुष के पास पहुँच जाएँगे, तो राधा शक्ति कृष्ण के पास पहुँच गई | {इसी पर} इसी को कहते हैं—राधा कृष्ण का मिलन | राधा कोई {औ} औरत नहीं है, और कृष्ण कोई दुनियावी मर्द नहीं है | यही है राधा तत्त्व | यही है कृष्ण तत्त्व |” [6]

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “आराधना मनुष्य जिस शक्ति से करते हैं, इसका नाम है क्या ? ह्लादिनीशक्ति | संवित्शक्ति से होश आ गया कि—”क्या मैंने किया है |” और ह्लादिनीशक्ति से साधना हो रही है | इसको ह्लादिनीशक्ति कहते हैं, या राधिकाशक्ति कहते हैं | और, जो आराधना करते हैं, उनको “राधा” कहते हैं; और बीच में कृष्ण | राधा कोई नारी नहीं है | आराधना जो करते हैं, वे राधा | आराधयति या सा राधा | यही है कृष्ण तत्त्व |” [7]

Divine union and transcending the material world

Radha and Krishna represent the longing for divine union between the soul and God. We all have that longing within us - the soul for the divine. The complications of their relationship represent the challenges that the soul has in reaching that divine union while incarnated as a human here on earth. That longing and frustration and complication which comes from having to live in a restricted world of rules or customs while seeking the freedom of the divine. Radha and Krishna’s secret love represents the need to transcend material existence in order to achieve the divine union. We run into problems when we try to inject our moral judgments or materialistic views into these archetypes. This is about transcendence and not about existing within the limitations of material existence.

These are just symbols and are not meant as value judgment on the morality of married life. Get out of your limited and materialistic viewpoints..The bliss of the divine union supercedes all convention - it breaks down all socially imposed barriers - it silences all moral judgments. It simply is - and will always be. (Courtesy of "She" - Radha Krishna: A Divine Love )


References
1. A Few Problems Solved - 1, The Practice of Art and Literature
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23, p.21
3. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23, p.76
4. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 7, The True Nature of Bhakti
5. Subhasita Samgraha - 18, Cult, Inference and Propensity
6. DMC 20 March 1966 Muzafarpur
7. DMC 28 July 1963 Kota


*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

O’ bhakta, exquisitely decorate the Ever-New Entity, Parama Purusa

PS Intro: In this song Parama Purusa is addressing the bhakta and giving him all sorts of guidelines to gain success on the path of spiritual attainment. 

“Cir nútane yatane mánas ratane, paráńa bhariyá sájáye dáo…” (Prabhat Samgiita #0577)

Purport:

O’ bhakta, exquisitely decorate the Ever-New Divine Entity, the inner jewel of your mind, up to your heart’s content. By your kiirtan, japa, sadhana, and dhyana, prepare a place for the Supreme One in Your Guru cakra and serve Him. Forget about the sludge of the past; do not think about those bitter days of old. Welcome the new effulgence, and warmly embrace this bright new era of neo-humanism.

O’ sadhaka, those old worn-out dogmas are like torn rags. Shake off those illogical ideas and cast them away from your mind. Give up all those isms and irrational beliefs. The call of the Ever-New is a message of radiant beauty. Dye your mind with the sweet call of the Supreme, and then colour the whole world. Spread that eternal message to all the four corners. Let everyone bask in the song and bliss of the Divine.

O’ spiritual aspirant, do not try to bring back the dogmas of those lost days of old. Do not dream to be intoxicated by that old wine. Do not waste your time thinking about those good and bad recollections of the past. The vibrant sun rays is like a new tonic. Arouse and awaken one and all with this brilliant new vision of neo-humanism.

O’ spiritual soldier, the journey, which began in the past, marches forward and will never stop. It goes on and on. In the blissful new joy of the rhythmic waves of t'al, fill your heart with the melody of the Ever-New by singing the glory of Parama Puruśa - that Eternal Entity...


== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

How to become family acarya nowadays

Ananda Marga Caryacara says, "Only those persons who are sincere, spirited and endowed with sharp intellect; and who understand and can make others understand the philosophy will be considered eligible to become acaryas." (1)

Note: Sadguru Baba’s above golden guideline is an essential component of developing a strong cadre of acaryas. Eligibility for becoming an acarya is to be based on one’s psychic and psycho-spiritual development, as well as one’s commitment to understanding and propagating Ananda Marga ideology.

Sadly, this high standard is not being upheld these days. One such avenue needing attention is the pathway for becoming a family acarya. In today’s organisational climate of extreme groupism, family acaryaships are not granted on the basis of one’s sadhana and ideological understanding. Instead, people become family acaryas only if they will blindly and obediently follow the group agenda of their bosses, and / or if they are big financial donors to Centre etc. And being a “yes-man” is the main qualification. That means if one is willing to unquestioningly compromise on points of ideology for the sake of of a particular narrow group, then one will be considered a prime candidate to be a family acarya. Unfortunately, this is the chief qualification for becoming a family acarya nowadays.

To truly advance and propagate Ananda Marga ideology, our entire acarya cadre, both family and Wt acaryas, will have to be formed and based on Guru’s guideline: ”Only those persons who are sincere, spirited and endowed with sharp intellect; and who understand and can make others understand the philosophy will be considered eligible to become acaryas." (1)

Reference
1. Caryacarya - 1, Táttvika, Ácárya/á, and Purodhá


== Section 4: Links ==

More About Niilakantha Divas - Feb 12 Recent postings
 Other topics of interest
More important letters

Legal Notice: ©2018 Ananda Marga Universal Forum. All rights reserved. Ananda Marga Universal Forum content is the intellectual property of Ananda Marga Universal Forum or its third party content providers. Ananda Marga Universal Forum shall not be liable for any errors or delays in content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Any copying, republication or redistribution, part or full, of Ananda Marga Universal Forum content, including by framing or similar means, is against the court of law and expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Ananda Marga Universal Forum.


This email contains four sections:1. PS #0577: O’ bhakta, exquisitely decorate the Ever-New Entity, Parama Purusa
2. Posting: Diorama & bhakti
3. IT: How to become family acarya nowadays
4. Links

Saturday, February 3, 2018

Unique example: economic issue + 3 more

Baba

Unique example: economic issue

Namaskar,

Prout is a practical philosophy that has already taken practical shape on this earth. The major tenets of Prout are practiced by ideal families across the globe. A true family functions on the dual approach of service and consumption. Items are used and goods are purchased for the welfare and utilisation of those family members - not for profit. If someone is sick, the right medicine is procured. And if someone is hungry then food is offered etc. There is no question of deliberating if a particular action will be profitable or not. According to their means, family members provide for everyone in their family.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Our Proutistic philosophy stipulates that every person be given food, clothing, shelter, medical care, and education. And this is what we see happening in our ideal families across the globe.

Prout philosophy states, "In a joint family every member is provided with adequate food, clothing, education and medical treatment, and amenities, as per their individual needs, according to the financial capacity of the entire family." (1)


All cared for in ideal family

The takeaway here is that the ideal, worldly, unit family (husband and wife, children, and grandparents) is not governed by the profit motive. Rather, everyone's needs are assessed and met, as far as possible. For instance, the children's education is given priority, the elderly are cared for, and the parents provide food to everyone in the house. So many needs are met. On a practical level, on a day-to-day basis, our Prout philosophy is alive and well in our ideal worldly family households, whereas the ways of greedy capitalism are not tolerated in our family lives.

Prout philosophy says, "If, however, any member of the family appropriates more grains, clothes, books or medicines than he requires, will that person not be the cause of distress to other members of the family? In such circumstances his actions will be certainly against dharma – certainly antisocial." (2)

The ways of over-accumulation and cheating are not tolerated in our family life. And the day is soon to come when it will not be tolerated in our collective life either. The days of capitalism are numbered. In each and every region, we will find proper worldly families who neatly adhere to our code of Proutistic living, whether they are aware of the term 'Prout' or not.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Unit family: microcosm of Prout

Creating a fully Proutistic society is not far off. Those very tenets of Prout are already present in ideal worldly family life. The next step is to apply them to collective life and that will lead to the formation of a Proutistic human society. It is a mere matter of extension or extrapolation. On the very first pages of "Problems of the Day", Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar gives this very solution.

Prout philosophy says, "We must not forget, even for a single moment, that the entire animate world is a vast joint family...All living beings can enjoy their rightful share of this property, like members of a joint family in the Da'yabha'ga system. As members of a joint family, human beings should safeguard this common property in a befitting manner and utilize it properly. They should also make proper arrangements so that everyone can enjoy it with equal rights, ensuring that all have the minimum requirements of life to enable them to live in a healthy body with a sound mind." (3)

So the building of a Prout society is veritably the application of our ideal family values to one and all. Certainly, it will take trial, ingenuity, and, most importantly, a spiritual outlook to establish Prout in our collective social life, but, nonetheless, in its micro form, Prout is already being practiced on this globe. So it is not something foreign. Rather it is very natural.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Only need to spread name of Prout

One other noted point is that as the ills of capitalism continue to create more and more problems on this earth - poverty, wealth disparity, environmental destruction, unemployment, misuse of resources, and theft etc. Humanity will be desperately searching for a solution. Now then is the perfect time to hasten our pracar of the Proutistic vision and raise the consciousness of the common people. Then we will easily be able to establish new ideas and new habits. So it is our duty to educate people about Prout.

Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar says that if we merely introduce people to the term Prout, then our Prout movement will be successful. People should know Prout exists, i.e. name recognition. Once that is done, then in a natural, organic manner the ideals of Prout will be integrated into collective norms. So it is our duty to highlight the ideals of Prout in a simple, positive, and practical manner to convince the people to move in this direction. And what better way to do this than to demonstrate how already Prout is functioning on this globe - in our worldly family lives.

Prout is right on the cusp of becoming established - it is not far off. Already, it is present all around us, and it will flourish on a grander scale on this earth. The key point to it all is extending our inherent worldly family feeling to one and all on this earth. And verily this is natural for us as human beings.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Conclusion

Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar explains how it is the dharma of all to live together in a Proutistic manner - with deep affinity for one another. By going against this, one is transgressing their social dharma. Hence if anyone adopts greedy, capitalist methods, theirs will not be tolerated as a proper way of living.

Prout philosophy says, "A member of a joint family cannot be called a social being if he does not possess the sentiment of oneness with the other members, or if he does not want to accept the lofty ideal of joint rights and the principle of rationality. According to true spiritual ideology the system of private ownership cannot be accepted as absolute and final, and hence capitalism cannot be supported either." (4)

Through our spiritual values, we will be able to easily make Prout a pervasive approach in our society. That is our natural dharma. Already Prout is the way in our ideal, worldly family households and soon that natural extension will take place to bring our entire human family under the banner of Prout.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Prout philosophy guides us, "For a healthy society, for a healthy social structure...Today or tomorrow the entire world will accept PROUT as the only panacea for all the world’s mundane and supramundane ailments. There is no alternative." (5)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Ka’l Bhairava

References
1. Problems of the Day, Point #1
2. Problems of the Day, Point #1
3. Problems of the Day, Point #1
4. Problems of the Day, Point #1
5. Prout Nutshell - 17, The Significance of Language


*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Against neo-humanism: cruelty base on preference

  Ananda Marga philosophy states, [The nature of a good person is]:  “Alas, what suffering an animal has to bear at the hands of cruel humans! But the animal is absolutely innocent. It is not a born enemy of the human being that if a person does not kill it, it will kill the person, just as a tiger or an insect does. I shall continuously make efforts to see that human beings refrain from such cruel acts of violence.” If one sees someone doing noble work, as a result of which the progress of the world is accelerated and the path of human welfare is widened, then one should think: “The noble work of this person will remain written in letters of gold in human history. I shall give my full support to this person in their noble endeavours...I shall help them in every possible way.”
   "If one sees a person engaged in deleterious activity, then one should think: “On account of the pernicious activities of this person, people are going to the dogs, this person is striking at the root of long-cherished austerities, forbearance, benevolence, and so on. I shall never support such misdeeds.”" (1)

In His above teaching, Baba guides us that one must not remain silent and watch the wrongful and harmful treatment of animals. A good person will come forward and oppose acts of violence against those innocent creatures. Nowadays in the state of Maharashtra (India), there is a ban on the slaughtering of cows and the sale of beef. Certain people have rallied around and recently passed legislation to ensure innocent cows are not subjected to the travesty of the slaughterhouse. Instead, their lives are being protected.

While this is certainly a positive development, the same protection and care has not been extended to other animals such as sheep, chickens, and goats etc which are commercially raised, butchered, and sold at the marketplace in Maharashtra. So those activists are prone to partiality. They protested and fought to protect cows, but not these other innocent creatures. If they were true neo-humanists they would not have differentiated between cows and other animals. They would have protected them all. So while there is one positive point, but, on the other hand, there are many negative ones. After all, saving creatures is certainly a kind of positive development in right direction.

All in all this is very similar to a scene which occurs in Bengal. Some naive bystanders may think that Bengali idol worshipers have great appreciation for the art and sculptures which those artists and sculptors created. Because those worshipers show tremendous reverence for those sculpted idols. But that is not the case. Those idol worshipers do not care about the aesthetic beauty of those sculptures. The proof is that when their rituals are completed those worshipers throw those sculptures into the water.

In the same way, none should naively think that those activists in Maharashtra are pouring their heart out for all animals. Rather they have their own personal, narrow agenda related with cows. All other animals may be skewered and slaughtered. So their protests are grounded in dogma, not neo-humanism.

In Him,
Buddhi Priya’

Note: These following states of India have also banned the slaughtering of cows: Haryana, New Delhi, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand.

Reference:
1. Shabda Cayaniká Part 4, Disc: 27


== Section: Ananda Vanii ==

New humanity on the eastern horizon

“The humans of today are possessed of spirited intellect and accomplished wisdom. They are keen to advance with rapid step shattering the shackles of dogmas. They will no longer be entrapped by the illusion of opportunism. The rays of the crimson dawn of a new humanity on the eastern horizon have started weaving textures of colours on their eyelids and in the subtle recesses of their minds. As for those who have been dreaming of keeping humanity imprisoned by dogmas, their days are numbered; their blissful dreams are being shattered to pieces. I call upon all enlightened people and say: “Go ahead with courage. The humanity has been awaiting you. Establish it in the excellence and grandeur of glory.”” (Ananda Vanii #53)

Note 1: True Ananda Vaniis have a number whereas Fake Ananda Vaniis do not - just as a fake car license plate has no number. By this way, you can easily recognise a Fake Ananda Vanii.


== Section 3: Links ==

Niilakantha Divas - Feb 12 Recent postings
 Other topics of interest
More important letters


Legal Notice: ©2018 Ananda Marga Universal Forum. All rights reserved. Ananda Marga Universal Forum content is the intellectual property of Ananda Marga Universal Forum or its third party content providers. Ananda Marga Universal Forum shall not be liable for any errors or delays in content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Any copying, republication or redistribution, part or full, of Ananda Marga Universal Forum content, including by framing or similar means, is against the court of law and expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Ananda Marga Universal Forum.


This email contains three sections:
1. Posting: Unique example: economic issue
2. IT: Against neo-humanism: cruelty base on preference
3. Links