Search This Blog

Sunday, March 31, 2024

AM & fanaticism + 5 more

Baba
AM & fanaticism

Namaskar,

Unfortunately, some have the wrong idea and think that we should not be strict in practicing Baba's teachings. Instead they think that we should be "moderate" in following Baba's teachings - and just loosely follow them. Here is one such account from the recent past that we must not forget:

I know of a Wt who was invited to dinner with celebrities and politicians to receive a few coins for a children's home. Apparently the soup contained onion, however that worker politely consumed the soup knowing that their [the Wts’] actions were not for their own benefit but for the children and project and of respect to the donors who had provided a tremendous gift to the project.

So the above account is glorifying the fact that a Wt left their ideal and ate something tamasik in order to please certain politicians and for the sake of getting some money. This is indeed a tragedy and the wrong way to live one's life - especially for a wholetime worker of Ananda Marga. We should never adopt such an outlook.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

What’s next: drink alcohol, eat meat?


Baba's clear-cut teaching is that we should never compromise our ideals for money, name, or fame. Otherwise what is next? Today, for the sake of money and pleasing politicians, this Wt has eaten onions, what will he do tomorrow? Drink alcohol, eat meat, smoke cigarettes, or perhaps even do something worse. Indeed, once one compromises on their ideal, there is no end to the depth of their fall.

For a few pennies, one should not leave their dharma. This is a cheap way to live and will produce no fruit. That means one can be purchased by capitalists at any time. And those capitalists will recognise this fact, and they will think that we are weak and that with money they can get us to do anything. In that way, they will tempt and purchase us each and every time. Because they will think that we are cheap and not worthy of respect. Just as some top Dadas have swerved from that path of dharma and margiis have lost respect for them. Whereas if those Dadas had been fanatical in adhering to Ananda Marga ideology, their respect would not have washed away.

So we should never do like this. To do anything great in this world and to earn the respect of others, one should be vigilant to follow their ideal. That means as Ananda Margiis - whether one is WT or margii - we should always follow His teachings. That is our main duty and that is the way to bring welfare, both to ourselves and others. That is the way to earn respect and propagate the gospel of Ananda Marga.

Think of it this way. If your surgeon is not fanatical in following medical protocol, will you rely upon him to do open heart surgery. No, never. Because you want a doctor who is fanatical, i.e. very accurate and strict, in his medical work, not one who is slack and sloppy. Similarly, fanaticism in Ananda Marga is highly valued because Ananda Marga is dharma. When any follower of Ananda Marga is very strict, i.e. fanatical, in adhering to rational teachings of Ananda Marga ideology, both they and the society-at-large are greatly benefited.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Fanatic doctor


Suppose a surgeon is not strict in following the codes of conduct and protocol for medical procedures. That surgeon is not fanatical - i.e. he is not strict but rather sloppy in his medical procedures. Then will you like to go to him for open heart surgery? No, never. Because you want a doctor who is fanatical in his medical work - very accurate and strict. That is the reason for fanaticism in Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha also: because Ananda Marga teachings are rational. The followers of Ananda Marga are very strict in rational ideas whereby they, as well as the society at large, will be greatly benefited.

A boon or curse to be fanatical


Being fanatic about a particular idea or path can either be a boon or a curse - it all depends upon what one is being fanatical about. For example, being fanatical or extreme in following Ananda Marga ideology is great because by this way one will become divine; whereas, being fanatical or radical in following one of the dogmatic religions is harmful and one will become a beast.

As Ananda Margiis and disciples of Baba, we should be perfectly clear about this and not be swayed by common perspectives which preach "moderation" in following any path. Unfortunately, some misunderstand this issue and in the process even glorify those who contravene Baba's teachings on dharma by eating tamasik food etc. So we should all beware, lest we fall from the divine path of Ananda Marga.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Religious fanatics are demonic - dharmic fanatics are assets


For centuries the common people have seen how fundamentalists and radicals in the dogmatic religions have created hell in the society. Christians have stoned people to death; Muslims have eliminated women's rights and chopped the hands of innocent people; and, there are so many other examples. That is why the general citizens always say: "Do not be radical or extreme. Such fanaticism is not good. Be moderate and tolerant in your approach." Essentially what they are saying is true: Strictly following dogmatic religious codes and edicts will cause many problems.

But what the common people do not realise is that Ananda Marga ideology is different. It has been given by Taraka Brahma and is grounded in rationality, logic, and benevolence. It is perfect, free from defect, and based in science. Our path of Ananda Marga is not an ism, but rather a scientific approach. Here below in one special discourse, Baba reveals the inner secrets of fanaticism.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Here is the English summary of Baba’s original Hindi teaching of General Darshan, 30 December 1970 Patna

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


Conclusion


Baba's point is very clear. Fanaticism is needed to do anything lasting work in this world. But being a fanatic in following the dogmatic religions is very bad and one will commit untold harm, whereas being a fanatic in following the dharma of Ananda Marga ideology is a top attribution, and one will bring much welfare to the world and attain Parama Purusa.

In Him,
Indrajit

~ In-depth study ~

Why fanaticism for rational ideas is very good


Here is the English summary of Baba’s original Hindi teaching of General Darshan, 30 December 1970 Patna

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

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

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

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

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

[Margiis: "Yes."]

Become determined and strong people like this. It is said, There is only one vow of human life, and that is to get Parama Purusa. There is no other vow. The vow is only one, the great vow - to get Parama Purusa. This is the vow of life: I do not know anything else. Therefore, for this I have expressed the need for a type of spiritual fanaticism. My aim is Paramatma, my goal is Parama Purusa - not anything else. I will address Parama Purusa by a single word not two. (English summary of original Adhyamatic Unmada Kii A'vashyakata' (Hindi) in AV-28 (Pure), General Darshan, 30 December 1970 Patna)


Wts must be strict in ideology


Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Proper karma sádhaná means the strict observance of yama and niyama. The meaning of tapah is to bring comfort to others even by enduring hardship." (1)

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "To take leadership in society you must be established in Yama and Niyama in just such a strict way." (2)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "For progress in entitative flow, one is to lead a pure life, a moralistic life, a life based on moral principles. Do not do anything bad. What is bad? Bad is that which depraves human existence. Follow a strict code of morality. Live a pure life, a neat and clean life. Be strict in 16 Points. What will happen? Your entitative flow will get purified and will be in parallelism with your psychic wave." (3)

Ananda Marga ideology states, "The path of Tantra is one of strict discipline; the disciple will have to go through strict anushásana." (4)

Sadguru Baba says, "Those who have the responsibility to show the path to others should be of superlative character with the most refined conduct. They and their followers must move constantly towards all-round development and shreya [ultimate spiritual attainment]. Persons who teach such well-regulated behaviour to others by their own conduct are called ácáryas. Bear in mind that people may be harmed or misled by even a small weakness or defect in the conduct of an ácárya. Just as it is the duty of a father to educate his children properly by his good conduct, an ácárya or ácáryá should always instruct by his or her exemplary actions and words." (5)

Ananda Marga ideology preaches, "Strict, ideological sadvipras will be the messengers of the revolution. They will carry the message of revolution to every home in the world, to every vein and capillary of human existence. The banner of victorious revolution will be carried by them alone." (6)


Male - female relations


This is the rule for family people and the rules for Wts are more strict.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "'Unrelated men and women should not touch one another as far as possible...The more distant the relationship between men and women, the greater should be the courtesy maintained in mutual conversation and behaviour between them..." (7)


References
1. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 7, The Highest Category of Devotion
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 31, The Conduct of an Ácárya
3. Subhasita Samgraha - 12, Man and His Ideological Desideratum
4. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 5, Don't Be Misguided
5. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 31, The Conduct of an Ácárya
6. Human Society - 2, Shúdra Revolution and Sadvipra Society
7. Caryacarya - 1, Social Relationship between Men and Women


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Stooges as family acaryas


Ananda Marga Caryacarya 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 notorious agenda of their bosses (i.e. adopt a stooge mentality), and / or if they are big financial donors to Centre etc. That is why nowadays they are fake family acaryas. 

The overall idea is that if one is willing to unquestioningly compromise on points of ideology for the sake of a particular narrow group, then one will be considered a prime candidate to be a fake family acarya. Unfortunately, this is the chief qualification these days.

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.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya 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." (2)

References
1. Caryacarya - 1, Táttvika, Ácárya/á, and Purodhá
2. Caryacarya - 1, Táttvika, Ácárya/á, and Purodhá



== Section: Important Teaching ==

Plight of the poor


Ananda Marga philosophy states, “What a dangerous outlook! What a rosy philosophy of capitalism! God save humanity from such perverted philosophy. Man’s desire for worldly pleasure does not cease until he finds a really great ideal. His hunger is insatiable. The wolf in him seems to say over and over again, “I am hungry, I am hungry.” His mouth is agape all the time and the fools of the earth, resigned to their belief in predestination, are swallowed by it. These wolves eat up their flesh and blood and cast away their insipid bones. Are we to support this wolfish philosophy? The dirty-clothed laborers, their faces lined with hard labor and fatigue, are not human beings in the eyes of those who have Mammon by their side. The characteristic of a vested interest is that it has no other thought but itself. The selfish man is the eater, the others are his food. His needs are never-ending. Out of his salary the poor man has to pay his house rent, support his family, educate his children, provide milk for his baby, marry his daughters. Are those necessities only for the people of the upper classes? Are these not the minimum necessities of life? Yes, but these thoughts of the poor are no concern of the rich! Such thinking involves some sacrifice, does it not? From where would objects of luxury for the rich come, if hunger were not the hard task-master of the poor? Let the daughters of the poor collect cow-dung forever and their sons be slaves in the households of the rich. What a fine arrangement! The high hopes of the poor?–pooh! pooh!! Aren’t they all moonshine?”

“No two things in the world are alike. So I do not suggest recasting everything into one mold. Still, for humanism and justice, equitable distribution of the resources of the universe is indispensable; co-ownership of the world’s resources is the birthright of every individual. Even a small attempt at depriving someone of this right is gross selfishness. Except when a special favor becomes necessary to give certain individuals impetus and inspiration, all persons must be given equal rights and opportunities in all spheres. Every individual must have equal rights regarding food, clothing, housing, medical aid and education — those things that are absolutely necessary for existence.” (1)

References
1. Human Society-1, Social Justice


== Section: Comment ==

Re: Save your daughters

Namaskar,

It was the year of 1997. This Nabhatiitananda played dirty role in election of Bhukti pradhan to favour Late Gopal Shastry, yesman of the then center by inviting some ABC margiis of Yellamanchili. Then he became closer to one famous classical music guru of Visakhapatnam Shrii IVL Shastry, relative of Late Gopal Shastry. In the name of RAWA Nabhatiitananda organised a programme which was financed by the then BP Late Gopal Shastry. Whle doing rehearsal Nabhatiitananda allegedly had affair with one young girl who participated in RAWA programme.

After RAWA programme this WT went to Kolkata for reporting.In the meantime this girl's parents came to know that their daughter was talking over phone with this WT. On questioning, the girl revealed the name of this sanyasi. They got angry, charged Gopal Shastry who in turn informed the then center not to send him to Visakhapatnam. Otherwise he would have been beaten like anything.

It was observed he was interested in talking to ladies & once he along with Raganugananda went to one new margii's house. Margii was not present at home. They were sitting in drawing room. His wife had gone to kitchen to arrange water/refreshment for them. All on a sudden the duo entered into kitchen. Seeing such strange behaviour she managed to drive them out. Then We lost that new margii who was regular in DC.

In view of above I remember one proverb in Odia language - aja'ga' gha' dekhi hue nahin kimba' dekha'i hue nahin" means "the wound or boil in secret part of the body can neither be seen nor shown." So they are scoundrels in our organisation.

in Him,
Narayan

- Here is the link to the initial comment - Re: Save your daughters


== Section: Hindi Quote ==

मिथ्याचारी का विरोध करो, बर्दाश्त मत करो


तो, यह जो intellectuals, यही आम जनता को विभ्रान्त किए हैं | और हम बोले, क्या ? sincerity first, sincerity second, sincerity always | साधनामार्ग में sincerity सबसे बड़ी चीज़ है | और, sincerity क्या है ? Sincerity is always सत्याश्रयी | Sincerity माने ही सत्य में रहना, मज़बूत रहना | अपना आदमी हो, घर का आदमी हो | कोई सत्य से इधर-उधर हट गया, sincerity की कमी जिनमें है—उसका विरोध करो, बर्दाश्त मत करो | अपना आदमी है तो क्या है | अपना आदमी अगर असाधु है, insincere है, तो, और भी अधिक ख़तरनाक है | क्यों ? बाहर में अगर साँप रहा, वह जितना ख़तरनाक है, घर में अगर साँप घुस गया तो और भी अधिक ख़तरनाक है | इसलिए, और भी, उसका अधिक विरोध होना चाहिए |”

[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)

“If our own person or relative deviates from the truth or is lacking sincerity, oppose him, do not tolerate him. It does not matter if he is our own relative. If our own person is dishonest and insincere then he is more dangerous. Why? If there is a snake outside the house it is dangerous, but if it enters inside the house, it becomes more dangerous. Therefore he [our close person] should be opposed more strongly.” (2)

References
1. हिंदी अप्रकाशित, साधना की मुख्य बात—सत्याश्रयी बनना, Taking Shelter in Satya is the Essence of Sadhana, NP, EGD 25 November 1978 Bombay
2. Taking Shelter in Satya is the Essence of Sadhana, EGD 25 November 1978 Mumbai


== Section: Bangla Quote ==

যদি সে খুৰ উন্নত মানুষ হয়

“কিছু মানুষের হয় যে পূর্বজন্মর কথাটা হুৰহু চিত্রটাই মনে থাকে | এবং সাধারণতঃ সেইগুলো হয়, যদি সে খুৰ উন্নত মানুষ হয়, যার ইচ্ছা-মৃত্যু হয়েছে | অথবা দ্বিতীয় হয় যে মানুষটা সজ্ঞানে মরেছে | আচ্ছা, মরৰার সময় জ্ঞান ছিল | আর তৃতীয় জিনিসটা হয়, যদি সে মানুষটা accident-এ মরে থাকে | এই তিন রকম ক্ষেত্রে পর জন্মের কথাটা ভাল ভাবে মনে থাকে |” (1)

Reference
1. MGD 19 December 1978 Calcutta


== Section 3: Links ==

Saturday, March 30, 2024

AM ethos vs religions + 3 more

Baba
AM ethos vs religions

Namaskar,

In all the religions, a small portion of life is meant for prayer and worship, and even then the aim of that prayer and worship is not for bhakti. Those prayers are for their worldly desires etc. For instance, those worshipers pray for money, a better job, or good health, or some other type of worldly gain. In that case, their religious engagements are for material gain. Their goal is matter.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Goal of religions is matter


Some of the religions preach that on Sundays one should remember the Lord, while all other days are for material pursuits. But even then, on Sundays, in their prayer and worship they pray for material or selfish gains. Then there are other dogmatic religions that have selected Friday or Saturday as their holy day, where they approach their God for material gain. While on all other days they also aim for material gain. Their goal is matter.

In Ananda Marga, our approach is the complete opposite. Ours is the path of pure spirituality where all practices and endeavours are for pleasing and serving the Supreme, not for any type of mundane riches etc. And all worldly dealings are to be done as objective adjustment, thinking of Him. This is His work, not for our worldly gains. Those acts are not mundane ventures but rather a part of Brahma sadhana. Only in the dharma of Ananda Marga is true spirituality ensconced into each and every cell of one's existence.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Ananda Marga is dharma not religion


The path which Baba has shown us - the path of Ananda Marga - is revolutionary since it is deeply imbibed in the nectar of spirituality. From birth to death and from morning till night, the life of an Ananda Margii is filled with spiritual practices and Cosmic ideation. Hence, in Ananda Marga, spirituality is our very heartbeat, i.e. the top-most aim - the summum bonum of life.

Ananda Marga ideology says, "Spirituality is the summum bonum of life in all its aspects." (1)

In Ananda Marga spirituality is our very heartbeat.

Ananda Marga ideology says, "What should a Sádhaka (spiritual aspirant) do? He or she must ascribe divinity to every unit object. Everything is the manifestation of God. Whether it is land, home, river, mountain, respect, insult, day or night – everything is He and His manifestation as a unit. Make proper use of all objects thinking that they are His gifts to us. To enjoy or endure anything is to enjoy or endure Him. Avoid the attraction of the unit and make contact with the integral whole. When you are able to live this way, the desire to steal the property of others will completely disappear. In Ananda Marga there is a special process through which one can dedicate everything to God.” (2)

Ananda Marga ideology says, “The ascription of divinity to objects means the pursuit of the Infinite, leaving the finite behind. Are you feeding your son? No, no, you are feeding the son-like manifestation of Brahma. Are you tilling the field? No, no you are serving the finite manifestation of Brahma with your plough. Really speaking, the ascription of divinity to objects precludes their material enjoyment, as the objects then merge in the non-material Supreme Brahma. Thus the mind of one, who has established him or herself in real Vaerágya (the renunciation of all sensual pleasures) can never become attached to finite objects.” (3)


Conclusion


The goal of every religion is materialistic. But in Ananda Marga, the goal is spirituality. All social and worldly dealings are to be done thinking of Him. Those acts are not mundane ventures but rather a part of Brahma sadhana, to serve Parama Purusa. True Ananda Margiis aim for oneness with the Cosmic Entity, Purna Brahma. Whatever they do in life is done for the aforesaid Goal. Whereas in the various religions, their goal is matter. This is the basic and fundamental difference between the various religions and Ananda Marga. Following the religions means binding oneself in the noose of avidya maya. Following Ananda Marga means ultimate liberation.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Namaskar,
in Him,
Nityananda

~ In-depth study ~

Here are more points which lead in this same direction that highlight the greatness of spiritual life in Ananda Marga.


Our spiritual life is not a part of our social life


We all know that in our A'nanda Ma'rga philosophy, Baba places tremendous emphasis on the dual approach of spiritual sadhana and social service. Both have a huge role to play. For that reason some may be thinking that our spiritual life and our social life are therefore equal in all regards. However, Baba's revolutionary teaching is something else. As important as our social life is, Baba here unveils and expresses the vastness and unparalleled nature of our spiritual approach in A'nanda Ma'rga.

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "Our spiritual life is not a part of our social life; our social life is a part of our spiritual life." (4)

Baba's above teaching establishes the supremacy of spirituality as He tells that everything falls within the scope of our spiritual life. Our spiritual life is not a subset of our social life; rather, our social life is a part of our spiritual life. That means that our entire social dealing comes under that great umbrella of spirituality. Or, another way of saying it is that nothing comes outside of our spiritual approach. Everything is part and parcel of that.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Subjective approach: ideating on Parama Purusa


In our Ananda Marga, Baba has given the tenet: Subjective approach through objective adjustment.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Your goal is the Supreme Entity. Yours is a subjective approach through objective adjustment. Your movement is towards the Supreme Entity. But while moving towards the Supreme Entity, you are to do all your worldly duties in the social, economic and all other spheres. That is, your hands should be engaged in worldly duties, and your mind should be moving towards the Supreme Entity." (5)

The overarching aim and main theme of life for an Ananda Margii is to always have the mind focused on Parama Purusa. It is the goal as well as the approach. All endeavours in our social life are not ends of themselves. Those worldly engagements are not our approach. Those endeavours are to be adjusted to fit neatly within our spiritual approach. Thus our social life stands as a subset of our spiritual life.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

This is further emphasized by our practice of brahamcarya. While living in the world and interacting with finite expressions we are to always ideate on the Supreme.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "The meaning of practising brahmacarya sádhaná is to treat the object with which one comes in contact as different expressions of Brahma and not as crude forms. By means of such an ideation, even though the mind wanders from one object to another, it does not get detached from Brahma because of the Cosmic feeling taken for each and every object. As a result of this, preya sádhaná (extroversial approach) is converted into shreya sádhaná (introversial approach)." (6)

Our approach is always subjective: towards the Divine. And we adjust our worldly life towards this spiritual ideal. That is the flow of life in Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha. This ideal is inherently linked with understanding and purpose of life. The moment one feels their life is not for mundane meandering but for moving towards Parama Purusa, then one wholly understands social life is a component of their spiritual life.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Our days and night are filled with spirituality


In Ananda Marga our spiritual approach continues through the whole life. In the morning, we greet and start the day with our practices of Guru Sakash and paincajanya etc, and the whole day follows in that flow: Doing sadhana, reciting our bath mantra, taking second lesson before our each and every work, ideating as we say namaskar, singing kiirtan etc. Each and every activity through the day is linked with Parama Purusa.

And then after dark we go for evening and night sadhana and ultimately take rest with His name on our lips - dreaming of Him. About this holistic ideal, Baba has given one divine sloka:

'Kuru punyam ahora'tram'
Meaning: Do virtuous deeds day and night

As Ananda Margiis, we are ideating on Brahma during the day and performing our various works and duties and then when sleeping we are repeating our ista mantra or dhyana mantra during the night. In that way each and every second of the life is drenched in the sweet flow of spirituality.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Even Prout is based on spirituality


As we know, in Ananda Sutram Baba has outlined the whole of Ananda Marga philosophy in seed form. In sum, there are 85 Sutras in these five chapters. Yet the first four chapters - or the first 69 Sutras - deal exclusively with points of spirituality. There is no hint or mention of social life in these sections. Then in His revolutionary approach in the final chapter of A'nanda Sutram Baba incorporates our social life and Prout - all neatly woven into the context of spirituality. Prout is a sub-set of Ananda Marga spiritual ideology; Prout is a God-centered philosophy resting on the dynamic force of spirituality.

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "Just to represent the spirit of “saḿgacchadhvam”, I propounded the theory of PROUT. So the entire theory of PROUT stands upon this Vaedika sermon of “saḿgacchadhvam”. " (7)

It is quite clear that in Ananda Marga spirituality is the main thing. This is the divine flow of life in Ananda Marga.


A'nanda Ma'rga is a revolution

The path of Ananda Marga is the top as our Marga maintains its stance of spirituality throughout all the realms of life. This is one of the reasons why we say Ananda Marga is a revolution - and far above the rest.

Here is Baba's teaching from Ananda Sutram:

Tasmáddharmah sadákáryah

The above sutra means that dharma must always be followed - all the time, always. It is not that only on particular days or in particular moments one follow's dharma.   Each and every moment of life is for the practice of dharma and Brahma sadhana.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Q. 46. What is the difference between ritualistic religion and spiritual sádhaná?"

   "Ans.: - In almost all cases ritualistic religion ultimately encourages the fulfilment of materialistic desires. Generally, human beings want to acquire physical objects as well as name and fame. Sometimes, even after fulfilling their desires, they want to accumulate more. With that goal in mind they follow a ritualistic religion."
   "The practice of ritualistic religion is nothing but pursuance of the path of preya (mundane pleasure). Ignorant men even fail to realize that by following such a path they do not always gain the material objects they desire. Only the sinful religious and social exploiters gain from such efforts."
   "Spiritual sádhaná is an individual and collective process that leads toward all-round progress. This path of sádhaná may certainly be termed as nivritti. Liberation does not imply escapism from the world, but rather observing the world with spiritual ideation. There is no scope whatsoever for the desire for name and fame, for pomp and show, for religious exploitation. Rather, the co-existence of such desires with spiritual sádhaná is contradictory."
   "The ritualistic differences in various religions are quite marked. By accentuating these differences, medieval and even contemporary people did not and do not hesitate to cause heavy bloodshed. However, in spiritual sádhaná there is no place for the differences in nationality, race, language or religion. Everyone has a singular dharma named spirituality, and only this is worth calling dharma. Religions are not dharma; they are mere collections of rituals." (8)


Spirituality is beyond all relative boundaries


Here Baba once again highlights the supreme nature of spiritual life.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "That ultimate and absolute ideal is the Cosmic ideal - an ideal beyond the scope of time, place and person. It is the Absolute, without and beyond relativity. It stands with its own lustre for all times and for every factor of the Cosmos." (9)

This clearly shows that our spiritual life reaches far beyond the realm of our social life. And in this next teaching, Baba clearly details that the entirety of our social life stands as a part or component of our spiritual life.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Q. 51. What is more important in life: Brahma sádhaná or constructive work?"

"Ans.: – The aim of a living being is Brahma Sádhaná. Just like having a bath, eating and sleeping, constructive work is also a part of Brahma Sádhaná. Therefore Brahma Sádhaná is more important than anything else." (10)


Social life based in spirituality


Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Spirituality provides a human being and humanity at large with that subtle and tremendous power with which no other power can be compared. Therefore, with spirituality as the base, a rational philosophy should be evolved to deal with the physical, psychological and socio-philosophical problems of the day." (11)

 And this shows that our social life is a part of our spiritual life and that our spiritual life extends far beyond that. Keeping our spiritual ideal at the fore, Baba has given us the way to identify, address, and solve each and every difficulty of our social life. This is His great blessing on the humanity.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Q. 53. There is no other alternative except Ánanda Márga to sustain human beings in their joint endeavours. Why?"

   "Ans.: – A united human society is the prerequisite for the development of civilization. The collective desire for survival ensures society’s meaningful existence. The society is a dynamic entity and its survival indicates its inherent dynamism. When a group of people bound by the ties of a common ideology move together along a particular path, inviting fellow humans to join them to share their common joys and sorrows, theirs is a real movement; they are destined to be successful."
   "In this universe of rapid temporal, spatial and personal change, no specific economic, political, or religious structure can be the permanent aim of humanity. This is because theories are born in a particular temporal, spatial and economic context. People can move along the path of eternal progress only by accepting the Cosmic Entity, who is beyond time, place and person, as the aim of life and by continuing to do all their worldly actions while moving along that path towards Him."
   "Ánanda Márga is that path of progress, and that is why Ánanda Márga is the only alternative for the preservation of human existence and civilization. The external rituals, the so-called dharmas, are not dharma but mere religion. They are subject to change depending on time, place and person. By manifesting distinctions within themselves and outside themselves (such as the differences like vijatiya bheda, svajátiya bheda and svagáta bheda), religions, like other relative factors have invited the repression of humanity by creating dogmas, bloodshed and similar evils. Thus religion cannot bring peace to humanity." (12)


Keep eyes on the Absolute


Ananda Marga ideology states, "The utilization of energy should be in the proper direction. If you have to move to the east and you start moving towards the west, your action will be considered full of prámáda, or madness. Ananda Marga has the correct way, through subjective approach and objective adjustment. While followers of Ananda Marga keep their eyes steady on the absolute, they do not ignore this relative world. They work for self-realization and social upliftment, and hence the utilization of their energy is never in vain. When the effort is correct and the utilization right, you will certainly reach the goal. I do not want you to wait life after life to reach your goal. You should realize the goal in this very life. Why will you waste even one precious moment of this life? Therefore fear not, success is yours for the asking. Go on making the correct effort." (13)

References
1. Idea & Ideology, The Cosmic Brotherhood
2. Subhasita Samgraha - 2, The Intuitional Science of the Vedas – 1
3. Subhasita Samgraha - 2, The Intuitional Science of the Vedas – 1
4. Poona DMC, 26-11-79 (English Translation), Subhasita Samgraha 14, chapter 7 (Hindi)
5. A Few Problems Solved - 4, Subjective Approach through Objective Adjustment
6. A Guide to Human Conduct, Brahmacarya
7. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3,  Saḿgacchadhvaḿ
8. Tattva Kaoumudii - 1, Some Questions and Answers on Ananda Marga Philosophy – Excerpt B
9. Idea & Ideology, The Cosmic Brotherhood
10. Tattva Kaoumudii - 1, Some Questions and Answers on Ananda Marga Philosophy – Excerpt B
11. 'The Cosmic Brotherhood', 5 June 1959
12. Tattva Kaoumudii - 1, Some Questions and Answers on Ananda Marga Philosophy – Excerpt B
13. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23, Properly Utilize Yourself to Reach God


== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

Solitary depths of my inner abode

"Ei vanaviithika'y pus'pama'ya'y nije ese dhara' dile a'ma'y..." (Prabhat Samgiita #2108)

Purport:

Baba, You have come in my park - in my flower garden. You have appeared without any invitation, shown me the magical display of flowers, and allowed me to hold You. Whatever You have taught and told, everything I have kept in my core, by Your grace.

My Dearmost, how can I forget that very special memorable day when I saw You. I could tell that Your whole heart was saturated with the deep feeling of mineness and love towards me. With the mental flower and in the cycle of the seasons and months, with the passage of time, that very love is getting stronger and stronger, more serene and pure.

Parama Purusa Baba, by Your grace I have got You within. Up till now I was just searching You externally - moving here and there - but I could not get You. But now You have come within my grasp, so I have everything. In the secret, solitary depths of my inner abode - all my desires are getting satiated. Baba, You have graced me and  come directly into my being and made my life meaningful...


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Baba’s humour: Why so-called ghosts won’t bother us

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "Sometimes you went to a particular house which is, suppose people say it is a haunted house. There are some haunted houses in each and every town, and I have already told that if you get any such haunted house, you just purchase it or use that house because “ghosts” won’t terrorize the Ánanda Márgiis, [Bábá, laughing] because each and every Ánanda Márgii is a "ghost"."

[laughter]

Sadguru Baba says, "शिवस्य गणः | शिव का गण है | They are followers of Shiva. The ghosts will not terrorize "ghosts". (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3, chapter 17, MGD 19 October 1978 Patna


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Prema is key ingredient for artistic genius

   Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Whatever the profound, philosophical implications of the word prema [“love”], 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.” (1)

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


== Section 3: Links ==

SUBJECTS TOPICS