Baba
All types of cakras
Namaskar,
Knowing all aspects of Ananda Marga philosophy serves a dual purpose: (a) it fuels our own progress along the path of spirituality, and (b) we can teach and guide others about dharma. So we should be thoroughly familiar with all the major and minor terms used in our Ananda Marga philosophy, including the term "cakra / chakra”.
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How cakra is used in AM
In Ananda Marga philosophy, the term "cakra / chakra" is used in a multitude of ways which differ greatly from the approach of traditional Indian literature as well as the fake yoga movement in the west. On its own, the term “cakra” has three basic meanings: (1) wheel, or cycle, or circle; (2) society, samaj, ghosti, or family; and, (3) psycho-spiritual energy center.
In addition, here are some of the ways the term cakra is used across Ananda Marga philosophy:
- (1) dharmacakra
- (2) brahmacakra
- (3) saora cakra
- (4) párthiva cakra
- (5) páramáńavik cakra
- (6) srsti cakra
- (7) karmacakra
- (8) bhacakra
- (9) samája cakra
- (10) sudarshana cakra
- (11) bhaeravii cakra
- (12) janma marana cakra
- (13) dharmamahacakra, i.e. DMC
- (14) kálacakra
- (15 - 23) the nine cakras as in psycho-spiritual energy centers: (15) muládhára cakra, (16) svadhisthana cakra, (17) manipura cakra, (18) anahata cakra, (19) vishuddha cakra, (20) lalaná cakra, (21) ajina cakra, (22) Guru cakra, and (23) sahasrára cakra (above the cranium).
Knowing all these terms and applications offers a more comprehensive knowledge of the term cakra.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
#1: Dharmacakra
In Ananda Marga, the term dharmacakra is widely known and part of Sixteen Points. Dharmacakra refers to our weekly, collective meditation gatherings.
Although the term is quite common in Ananda Marga, we should not think that it only applies to our gatherings. The term stems back to Buddha's era.
Ananda Marga philosophy says, "That special mudra' of Buddha is called dharmacakra pravarttana mudra'. To those first five people who heard his preaching, he said, “Always keep the wheel of dharma moving. Take care that it never ceases to move.”" (1)
The actual term dharmacakra is at least 2500 years old, though the way Buddha used the term is different from our use in Ananda Marga.
#2: Brahmacakra
The term brahmacakra is also quite well known to those familiar with Ananda Marga philosophy. Brahmacakra refers to the system wherein jiivas and inanimate objects move around the Cosmic Nucleus. Those who are psycho-spiritually closer to Him have a shorter radius. Yet regardless of near or far, all are moving around Him - no one is outside of this system. Here is how Sadguru Baba describes this in His discourses.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
Ananda Marga ideology says, "“Sarva'jiive sarvasam'sthe brhante.” His created beings, His loving sons and daughters, His children, are moving round Him. They cannot get themselves detached from Him because He is the Supreme Nucleus and others are just like electrons moving round the nucleus. So Purus'ottama, Parama Purus'a, the Supreme Father, the Supreme Progenitor, is in the centre, and the others are moving and dancing round Him. They move along with their different psychic and physical pabula." (2)
Just as all the planets of this solar system (saora cakra - see below) move around the sun, all the created beings revolve around Parama Purusa. So long as one feels separate from Him, then they are revolving around Him. Those clouded by maya are far and those sadhakas focused on Him are near. It all depends upon one's samskara and spiritual practices. When a sadhaka feels that, "I and Parama Purusa are the same", then they are very close. And when any semblance of “I-ness” disappears, the jiiva becomes one with Him. This is His divine krpa. In a nutshell, this is our system of brahmacakra.
#3 - #5: Saora cakra, Párthiva cakra, & Páramáńavik cakra
(3) Saora cakra is the solar system wherein all the various planets / celestial bodies revolve around the sun.
(4) Párthiva cakra is the earth’s system wherein the moon revolves around the earth.
Ananda Marga ideology states, “The same system is followed by the earth also. Here in this ethereal system we see that in the middle is the earth, and the moon is moving around that nucleus. It is the same system. This one may be called párthiva cakra.” (3)
(5) Páramáńavik cakra is the atomic system.
“The smallest article that can be seen by the human intellect, if not by human eyes, is the atom. And in the atom also there is a particular system, the atomic system, and the centre, that is, the nucleus, has electrons moving round that nucleus. This is the atomic system. These systems are called cakras in Sanskrit. So for this atomic system the Sanskrit name should be páramáńavik cakra.” (4)
#6: Srsti cakra
Srsti cakra literally means the "cycle of creation". When using this term, Baba is describing how creation came into existence. In His discourses published in "Idea and Ideology" and "Elementary Philosophy", Baba explains how the triangle of forces, the five elements, jadasphota, the creation of mind, and the creation emerged from Nirgun'a Brahma. Srsti cakra is a very complex and technical discussion of how the manifested universe took expression out of Cosmic Mind.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
#7: Karma cakra
The next usage of the term cakra in Ananda Marga is karma cakra. This term is used less frequently. It refers to the law of karma or cycle of karma or the cycle of action and reaction. In brief, there is the original action (karma or kriya), and the ensuing reactive momenta (samskara), followed by the fruit of the action (karmaphala, or phalabhoga). This is the endless cycle that keeps jiivas bound in this manifested cosmos, returning again and again, life after life.
Karma cakra refers to the totality of this endless cycle. The jiivatma keeps revolving through this cycle birth after birth. So long as one is bound by their actions they cannot attain salvation. In any number of discourses Baba describes in depth the principles of samskara theory, or karma cakra.
#8: Bhacakra
Next is bha-cakra. In a few English discourses this is referred to as the spatio-eternal system. But that is not the essence of the term. The real meaning of the term bhacakra is given in Laghu Nirukta (Ananda Marga small encyclopedia). That is as follows:
1. The sky and space which can be seen from one side of the earth represents only half or a partial amount. To see the other half one has to go to the other side of the earth. And when the entire thing is treated as one, then that is bhacakra. Bhacakra is complete.
2. The next definition means the known and unknown created worlds-- that combined is bhacakra.
Often people think that when they are looking up at the sky they can see the entirety. But actually there is another part of the sky which is out of view. When both the seen and unseen skies are taken together as the complete whole, then that is bhacakra, or the entire universe. So that is yet another cakra in our Ananda Marga ideology.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
#9: Sama’ja cakra
The samája cakra refers to the social cycle which is an essential component of Prout philosophy.
Prout philosophy guides us, “The samája cakra [social cycle] moves on. After the Shúdra Age [the age of labour workers] comes the age of warriors – that is, the Kśatriya Age [martial-minded people]; next comes the Vipra Age [the age of intellectuals]; then the Vaeshya Age [the age of tycoons]; and then, after shúdra revolution, in the second parikránti [complete evolutionary rotation] of the social cycle, comes a new Kśatriya Age – the age of the kśatriyas [martial-minded people] who led the shúdra revolution. The social cycle moves on in this manner.” (5)
#10: Sudarshana cakra
The sudharshana cakra is Lord Krsna’s special weapon.
Ananda Marga philosophy states, “You know what happened at the time of Jayadratha’s death. Arjuna, as per his vow, was supposed to go to the funeral pyre immediately after sunset in order to keep his promise. Suddenly people observed that the sun was no longer in the sky and that it had become dark all around. Everyone thought that the sun had already set. Those who were devotees, not philosophers, commented that Lord Krśńa had covered the sun with His Sudarshana Cakra [His special discus].” (6)
#11: Bhaeravii cakra
The bhaeravii cakra is a special tantrika symbol.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
Ananda Marga philosophy states, “The kálacakrayánii and Maháyánii schools used to worship Káli in the Bhaeravii Cakra. Later this kálacakrayána got lost in the wave of vajrayána.” (7)
In Ananda Marga, viiracarii sadhakas do their night sadhana sitting in bhaeravii cakra.
#12: Janma-maran’a cakra
Janma marana cakra is the endless cycle of birth and death.
Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “In the spiritual sphere, when one reaches that vindu one no longer takes rebirth – the cycle of birth and death stops and the aspirant no longer has to return to this world. In váráńasii there is no rebirth. It should be understood that this váráńasii does not refer to a particular city of Uttar Pradesh in India but to a point situated between the ájiṋá and sahasrára cakras, that is, between the pituitary and pineal gland.” (8)
#13: Dharmamahacakra (DMC)
Dharma mahácakra is a spiritual congregation held only in the physical presence of the Márga Guru, Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji.
Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “The dharmacakra which is held on a large scale on special occasions will be called dharma mahácakra.” (9)
#14: Kálacakra
Kálacakra refers to the measurement of the passage of time.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, “When some wave of expression emanates from the Universal Hub and moves in the process of systalsis, two main forces are active, Prajiṋátattva [the Cognitive Force] and Shaktitattva [the Operative Force]. The former is called Citishakti, and the latter is called Káliká Shakti. It is called Káliká Shakti because the Operative Force maintains Her creation through kálacakra, the eternal time factor. (This has nothing to do with the deity Kálii.)” (10)
#15 - #23: Nine cakras of the human body
The final application of the term cakra refers to the psycho-spiritual energy centers in the body, where two nadiis cross the susmna canal.
Ananda Marga philosophy says, "The first thing is that this kulakun'd'alinii rises slowly from the mu'la'dha'ra cakra to the sahasra'ra cakra in eight steps, it passes through eight cakras, and the sahasra'ra cakra is the ninth. Just below the sahasra'ra cakra is the guru cakra." (9)
Ananda Marga philosophy says, “There are nine cakras [plexi] in human organisms [mu'la'dha'ra, sva'dhis't'ha'na, man'ipura, ana'hata, vishuddha, lalaná [tip of the nose], a'jin'a', Guru, and sahasra'ra]." (12)
Use of cakra in Prabhat Samgiita
In Prabhat Samgiita #4072, there is a line: nava cakra kii kalyan'. Here the bhakta is saying that by His grace the mind is vibrated and the petals of the nine cakras are blooming so he is requesting Parama Purusa to, “Please come and sit on my nine cakras.” By all this, we can understand that there are nine cakras. Other aspects to know about this topic are that Guru cakra is at the base or seed of the sahasrara cakra”. Guru cakra is also referred to as Varanasi in the discourse, "Where is Varanasi?".
All this is important because our system of sadhana is a methodical process and one needs proper understanding to progress. So all the supportive knowledge and practices of sadhana are necessary to create that intense longing for Parama Purusa. For this reason, Baba has given us various lessons of sadhana and delivered thousands of spiritual discourses. With that knowledge and practice, a sadhaka can gain one-pointed bhakti for Him.
Ananda Marga ideology says, "To attain Parama Purus'a, to become one with the Supreme Reality, He must be made the summum bonum of human life. But the attainment of the Supreme Reality is not possible overnight. For that the sa'dhaka [spiritual practitioner] will have to undergo the systematic and methodical process of spiritual sa'dhana' for a long period, till every nerve-cell, nerve-fibre, every bit of his physical existence is divinized. Sa'dhana', after all, is a scientific process by which the entire psycho-physical existence is divinized." (13)
Conclusion
Baba has blessed us with a complete philosophy that gives unparalleled insight into the path of spirituality as well as the universe around us. We should study and assimilate the meaning of all the terms Baba uses, such as cakra. Then we will be in the best position to do pracara and get self-realisation, by His grace. Then we will best be able to serve and please Him.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
In Him,
Nira’bha’sa
There may be more cakras so, if you find any, let us know.
~ In-depth study ~
Frog analogy
In the general society, people commonly associate their existence with something narrow like race, religion, locale, region, occupation, level of education, sickness or disease, or money etc. These are some of the the small-minded ways that people classify themselves. And this leads to a certain type of identity problem. They think, “I am white”, or “I am black”, or “I am a brahmin”, or “I am a Christian”, or “I am a CEO” etc. When in reality they are part of something much larger than that.
Their limitation of thought is no different than a frog who lives in one pond and thinks that this pond is the whole universe in which they live. When in fact that frog is part of something much, much bigger, and far more grand. But with its limited outlook the frog cannot realise this. Same then is the case of jiivas who merely associate themselves with some type of clannish identity.
So when an aspirant becomes aware of brahmacakra as well as what it means, then automatically it changes their entire outlook. Then they are no longer small-minded, then they are no longer far. Because by definition they are forced to think that, "I am a jiivatma connected to the great Parama Purusa so I have a link with my Divine Father."
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
How brahmacakra changes one’s outlook
In that case, one no longer associates themselves with a small part of this cosmos or with a limited group. Rather they think they are part of the greater whole. This clears up all kinds of misconceptions and automatically expands one's psychic outlook. By understanding brahmacakra, one knows that Parama Purusa is the essence of life, then one knows all that is necessary to know. The sadhaka has a mental road map of where they need to go. So just being aware about brahmacakra is a big boon to one's progress, both mentally and spiritually.
In contrast those unaware about brahmacakra are drowned in maya and get caught up in all kinds of feuds, abuse, deception, wrongs, and injustices because they are identifying themselves with something small and view others as being opponents, different, or outside of their world. Understanding practically what brahmacakra entails is enough to change one's whole mental structure and push one towards their cherished Goal.
Brahmacakra
Furthermore, in His discourses, Baba describes how all the jiivas (living and nonliving entities) are moving around Parama Purusa. In that case, He is referring to brahmacakra, and employing the shloka: “Sarva'jiive sarvasam'sthe brhante.” While explaining how each expression of creation is connected with God and moving around Parama Purusa at various distances, Baba uses the term brahmacakra. To reduce the radius, one is to perform sadhana. In this system, the nucleus is Brahma and the created beings constantly revolve around Him just as the planets revolve around the sun.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
References
1. Namah Shivaya Shantaya, Shiva – the Focal Point of Everything (Discourse 3)
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3, The Birthright of the Microcosm
3. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 33, Brahma Cakra
4. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 33, Brahma Cakra
5. Problems of the Day, Point #34
6. Namami Krsnasundaram, Párthasárathi Krśńa and Pariprashna (Discourse 24)
7. Shabda Cayanika - 4, Kálii to Kikhi (Discourse 25)
8. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 7, Where Is Varanasi?
9. Caryacarya - 1, Dharma Mahácakra
10. Discourses on Tantra - 1, The Pervasive Influence
11. Discourses on Krsna & the Giita, Krśńa Unparalleled
12. Yoga Psychology, Under the Shelter of the Guru
13. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 33, Bhusuku and Brahmabháva
The below section is an entirely different topic, unrelated to the above material.
It stands on its own merit as a point of interest and ideological awareness.
* * *
Understanding surrender theory
Some think surrender means doing nothing and depending on God. How far is this correct?
Answer: It is not correct. In the following teaching Baba has given the explanation.
"Párthasárathi says, Má karmaphalaheturbhúmá te saungostvakarmańi [“You must not do actions that will bind you, but you must not be averse to action, either”]. Do your duty, your karma. Now, is this karma in conformity with prapatti or is it antagonistic to prapatti? The teachings of Vraja Krśńa are clearly consistent with prapatti. His existence, His actions, the music of His flute, the way in which He attracts people and gives them shelter – all these are in perfect harmony with prapatti, because an individual feels free after surrendering everything to the Macrocosmic Entity. Here Párthasárathi says, “Do your karma, for you have an inalienable right to your karma.” Karma is defined as Karma Brahmeti karma bahu kurviita – “You are human. Simply look upon karma as a veritable expression of Brahma [Supreme Entity] and do as much karma as you can.”
"Is this in agreement with prapatti or at variance with prapatti? It seems to be opposed to prapatti but in actuality it is not. If we go deeper into the subject, we see that this quinquelemental body, this body of flesh and bones, this mind made of ectoplasmic stuff, this reflecting plate that acts as the witnessing entity (known as átman or puruśa in philosophy) – all these have their origin in Parama Puruśa. It is the Cosmic desire that is the source of the creation of the human body, mind and soul. If we utilize this body, mind and jiivátmá [soul, self, unit consciousness], we are only following the path of prapatti. That is, we are utilizing the things given to us by Parama Puruśa. All these things, the body, mind and self, are His gifts. Had He willed otherwise, they would not have existed. Without Cosmic desire, nothing can exist, nothing can move, not even a blade of grass. So in accordance with the spirit of prapatti, that the body is a machine, we can say that He has been kind enough to provide the body and mind, to be utilized for work only. Hence I follow the spirit of prapatti in using them."
"In the beginning, karma seemed to be against prapatti, but karma is not antithetical to prapatti. It is definitely in conformity with prapatti. So a boy or a girl who does work is surely following the path of prapatti. Even if there is any room for indolence while enjoying the flute of Vraja Krśńa, there is not the least room for inaction in the clarion call of the karma yoga of Párthasárathi Krśńa." (1)
Reference
1. Namami Krsnasundaram, Krśńa and Prapattiváda – 2 (Discourse 5)
In Ananda Marga, the term dharmacakra is widely known and part of Sixteen Points. Dharmacakra refers to our weekly, collective meditation gatherings.
Although the term is quite common in Ananda Marga, we should not think that it only applies to our gatherings. The term stems back to Buddha's era.
Ananda Marga philosophy says, "That special mudra' of Buddha is called dharmacakra pravarttana mudra'. To those first five people who heard his preaching, he said, “Always keep the wheel of dharma moving. Take care that it never ceases to move.”" (1)
The actual term dharmacakra is at least 2500 years old, though the way Buddha used the term is different from our use in Ananda Marga.
#2: Brahmacakra
The term brahmacakra is also quite well known to those familiar with Ananda Marga philosophy. Brahmacakra refers to the system wherein jiivas and inanimate objects move around the Cosmic Nucleus. Those who are psycho-spiritually closer to Him have a shorter radius. Yet regardless of near or far, all are moving around Him - no one is outside of this system. Here is how Sadguru Baba describes this in His discourses.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
Ananda Marga ideology says, "“Sarva'jiive sarvasam'sthe brhante.” His created beings, His loving sons and daughters, His children, are moving round Him. They cannot get themselves detached from Him because He is the Supreme Nucleus and others are just like electrons moving round the nucleus. So Purus'ottama, Parama Purus'a, the Supreme Father, the Supreme Progenitor, is in the centre, and the others are moving and dancing round Him. They move along with their different psychic and physical pabula." (2)
Just as all the planets of this solar system (saora cakra - see below) move around the sun, all the created beings revolve around Parama Purusa. So long as one feels separate from Him, then they are revolving around Him. Those clouded by maya are far and those sadhakas focused on Him are near. It all depends upon one's samskara and spiritual practices. When a sadhaka feels that, "I and Parama Purusa are the same", then they are very close. And when any semblance of “I-ness” disappears, the jiiva becomes one with Him. This is His divine krpa. In a nutshell, this is our system of brahmacakra.
#3 - #5: Saora cakra, Párthiva cakra, & Páramáńavik cakra
(3) Saora cakra is the solar system wherein all the various planets / celestial bodies revolve around the sun.
(4) Párthiva cakra is the earth’s system wherein the moon revolves around the earth.
Ananda Marga ideology states, “The same system is followed by the earth also. Here in this ethereal system we see that in the middle is the earth, and the moon is moving around that nucleus. It is the same system. This one may be called párthiva cakra.” (3)
(5) Páramáńavik cakra is the atomic system.
“The smallest article that can be seen by the human intellect, if not by human eyes, is the atom. And in the atom also there is a particular system, the atomic system, and the centre, that is, the nucleus, has electrons moving round that nucleus. This is the atomic system. These systems are called cakras in Sanskrit. So for this atomic system the Sanskrit name should be páramáńavik cakra.” (4)
#6: Srsti cakra
Srsti cakra literally means the "cycle of creation". When using this term, Baba is describing how creation came into existence. In His discourses published in "Idea and Ideology" and "Elementary Philosophy", Baba explains how the triangle of forces, the five elements, jadasphota, the creation of mind, and the creation emerged from Nirgun'a Brahma. Srsti cakra is a very complex and technical discussion of how the manifested universe took expression out of Cosmic Mind.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
#7: Karma cakra
The next usage of the term cakra in Ananda Marga is karma cakra. This term is used less frequently. It refers to the law of karma or cycle of karma or the cycle of action and reaction. In brief, there is the original action (karma or kriya), and the ensuing reactive momenta (samskara), followed by the fruit of the action (karmaphala, or phalabhoga). This is the endless cycle that keeps jiivas bound in this manifested cosmos, returning again and again, life after life.
Karma cakra refers to the totality of this endless cycle. The jiivatma keeps revolving through this cycle birth after birth. So long as one is bound by their actions they cannot attain salvation. In any number of discourses Baba describes in depth the principles of samskara theory, or karma cakra.
#8: Bhacakra
Next is bha-cakra. In a few English discourses this is referred to as the spatio-eternal system. But that is not the essence of the term. The real meaning of the term bhacakra is given in Laghu Nirukta (Ananda Marga small encyclopedia). That is as follows:
1. The sky and space which can be seen from one side of the earth represents only half or a partial amount. To see the other half one has to go to the other side of the earth. And when the entire thing is treated as one, then that is bhacakra. Bhacakra is complete.
2. The next definition means the known and unknown created worlds-- that combined is bhacakra.
Often people think that when they are looking up at the sky they can see the entirety. But actually there is another part of the sky which is out of view. When both the seen and unseen skies are taken together as the complete whole, then that is bhacakra, or the entire universe. So that is yet another cakra in our Ananda Marga ideology.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
#9: Sama’ja cakra
The samája cakra refers to the social cycle which is an essential component of Prout philosophy.
Prout philosophy guides us, “The samája cakra [social cycle] moves on. After the Shúdra Age [the age of labour workers] comes the age of warriors – that is, the Kśatriya Age [martial-minded people]; next comes the Vipra Age [the age of intellectuals]; then the Vaeshya Age [the age of tycoons]; and then, after shúdra revolution, in the second parikránti [complete evolutionary rotation] of the social cycle, comes a new Kśatriya Age – the age of the kśatriyas [martial-minded people] who led the shúdra revolution. The social cycle moves on in this manner.” (5)
#10: Sudarshana cakra
The sudharshana cakra is Lord Krsna’s special weapon.
Ananda Marga philosophy states, “You know what happened at the time of Jayadratha’s death. Arjuna, as per his vow, was supposed to go to the funeral pyre immediately after sunset in order to keep his promise. Suddenly people observed that the sun was no longer in the sky and that it had become dark all around. Everyone thought that the sun had already set. Those who were devotees, not philosophers, commented that Lord Krśńa had covered the sun with His Sudarshana Cakra [His special discus].” (6)
#11: Bhaeravii cakra
The bhaeravii cakra is a special tantrika symbol.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
Ananda Marga philosophy states, “The kálacakrayánii and Maháyánii schools used to worship Káli in the Bhaeravii Cakra. Later this kálacakrayána got lost in the wave of vajrayána.” (7)
In Ananda Marga, viiracarii sadhakas do their night sadhana sitting in bhaeravii cakra.
#12: Janma-maran’a cakra
Janma marana cakra is the endless cycle of birth and death.
Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “In the spiritual sphere, when one reaches that vindu one no longer takes rebirth – the cycle of birth and death stops and the aspirant no longer has to return to this world. In váráńasii there is no rebirth. It should be understood that this váráńasii does not refer to a particular city of Uttar Pradesh in India but to a point situated between the ájiṋá and sahasrára cakras, that is, between the pituitary and pineal gland.” (8)
#13: Dharmamahacakra (DMC)
Dharma mahácakra is a spiritual congregation held only in the physical presence of the Márga Guru, Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji.
Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “The dharmacakra which is held on a large scale on special occasions will be called dharma mahácakra.” (9)
#14: Kálacakra
Kálacakra refers to the measurement of the passage of time.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, “When some wave of expression emanates from the Universal Hub and moves in the process of systalsis, two main forces are active, Prajiṋátattva [the Cognitive Force] and Shaktitattva [the Operative Force]. The former is called Citishakti, and the latter is called Káliká Shakti. It is called Káliká Shakti because the Operative Force maintains Her creation through kálacakra, the eternal time factor. (This has nothing to do with the deity Kálii.)” (10)
#15 - #23: Nine cakras of the human body
The final application of the term cakra refers to the psycho-spiritual energy centers in the body, where two nadiis cross the susmna canal.
Ananda Marga philosophy says, "The first thing is that this kulakun'd'alinii rises slowly from the mu'la'dha'ra cakra to the sahasra'ra cakra in eight steps, it passes through eight cakras, and the sahasra'ra cakra is the ninth. Just below the sahasra'ra cakra is the guru cakra." (9)
Ananda Marga philosophy says, “There are nine cakras [plexi] in human organisms [mu'la'dha'ra, sva'dhis't'ha'na, man'ipura, ana'hata, vishuddha, lalaná [tip of the nose], a'jin'a', Guru, and sahasra'ra]." (12)
Use of cakra in Prabhat Samgiita
In Prabhat Samgiita #4072, there is a line: nava cakra kii kalyan'. Here the bhakta is saying that by His grace the mind is vibrated and the petals of the nine cakras are blooming so he is requesting Parama Purusa to, “Please come and sit on my nine cakras.” By all this, we can understand that there are nine cakras. Other aspects to know about this topic are that Guru cakra is at the base or seed of the sahasrara cakra”. Guru cakra is also referred to as Varanasi in the discourse, "Where is Varanasi?".
All this is important because our system of sadhana is a methodical process and one needs proper understanding to progress. So all the supportive knowledge and practices of sadhana are necessary to create that intense longing for Parama Purusa. For this reason, Baba has given us various lessons of sadhana and delivered thousands of spiritual discourses. With that knowledge and practice, a sadhaka can gain one-pointed bhakti for Him.
Ananda Marga ideology says, "To attain Parama Purus'a, to become one with the Supreme Reality, He must be made the summum bonum of human life. But the attainment of the Supreme Reality is not possible overnight. For that the sa'dhaka [spiritual practitioner] will have to undergo the systematic and methodical process of spiritual sa'dhana' for a long period, till every nerve-cell, nerve-fibre, every bit of his physical existence is divinized. Sa'dhana', after all, is a scientific process by which the entire psycho-physical existence is divinized." (13)
Conclusion
Baba has blessed us with a complete philosophy that gives unparalleled insight into the path of spirituality as well as the universe around us. We should study and assimilate the meaning of all the terms Baba uses, such as cakra. Then we will be in the best position to do pracara and get self-realisation, by His grace. Then we will best be able to serve and please Him.
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In Him,
Nira’bha’sa
There may be more cakras so, if you find any, let us know.
~ In-depth study ~
Frog analogy
In the general society, people commonly associate their existence with something narrow like race, religion, locale, region, occupation, level of education, sickness or disease, or money etc. These are some of the the small-minded ways that people classify themselves. And this leads to a certain type of identity problem. They think, “I am white”, or “I am black”, or “I am a brahmin”, or “I am a Christian”, or “I am a CEO” etc. When in reality they are part of something much larger than that.
Their limitation of thought is no different than a frog who lives in one pond and thinks that this pond is the whole universe in which they live. When in fact that frog is part of something much, much bigger, and far more grand. But with its limited outlook the frog cannot realise this. Same then is the case of jiivas who merely associate themselves with some type of clannish identity.
So when an aspirant becomes aware of brahmacakra as well as what it means, then automatically it changes their entire outlook. Then they are no longer small-minded, then they are no longer far. Because by definition they are forced to think that, "I am a jiivatma connected to the great Parama Purusa so I have a link with my Divine Father."
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How brahmacakra changes one’s outlook
In that case, one no longer associates themselves with a small part of this cosmos or with a limited group. Rather they think they are part of the greater whole. This clears up all kinds of misconceptions and automatically expands one's psychic outlook. By understanding brahmacakra, one knows that Parama Purusa is the essence of life, then one knows all that is necessary to know. The sadhaka has a mental road map of where they need to go. So just being aware about brahmacakra is a big boon to one's progress, both mentally and spiritually.
In contrast those unaware about brahmacakra are drowned in maya and get caught up in all kinds of feuds, abuse, deception, wrongs, and injustices because they are identifying themselves with something small and view others as being opponents, different, or outside of their world. Understanding practically what brahmacakra entails is enough to change one's whole mental structure and push one towards their cherished Goal.
Brahmacakra
Furthermore, in His discourses, Baba describes how all the jiivas (living and nonliving entities) are moving around Parama Purusa. In that case, He is referring to brahmacakra, and employing the shloka: “Sarva'jiive sarvasam'sthe brhante.” While explaining how each expression of creation is connected with God and moving around Parama Purusa at various distances, Baba uses the term brahmacakra. To reduce the radius, one is to perform sadhana. In this system, the nucleus is Brahma and the created beings constantly revolve around Him just as the planets revolve around the sun.
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References
1. Namah Shivaya Shantaya, Shiva – the Focal Point of Everything (Discourse 3)
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3, The Birthright of the Microcosm
3. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 33, Brahma Cakra
4. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 33, Brahma Cakra
5. Problems of the Day, Point #34
6. Namami Krsnasundaram, Párthasárathi Krśńa and Pariprashna (Discourse 24)
7. Shabda Cayanika - 4, Kálii to Kikhi (Discourse 25)
8. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 7, Where Is Varanasi?
9. Caryacarya - 1, Dharma Mahácakra
10. Discourses on Tantra - 1, The Pervasive Influence
11. Discourses on Krsna & the Giita, Krśńa Unparalleled
12. Yoga Psychology, Under the Shelter of the Guru
13. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 33, Bhusuku and Brahmabháva
* * *
The below section is an entirely different topic, unrelated to the above material.
It stands on its own merit as a point of interest and ideological awareness.
* * *
== Section 2: Important Teaching ==
Some think surrender means doing nothing and depending on God. How far is this correct?
Answer: It is not correct. In the following teaching Baba has given the explanation.
"Párthasárathi says, Má karmaphalaheturbhúmá te saungostvakarmańi [“You must not do actions that will bind you, but you must not be averse to action, either”]. Do your duty, your karma. Now, is this karma in conformity with prapatti or is it antagonistic to prapatti? The teachings of Vraja Krśńa are clearly consistent with prapatti. His existence, His actions, the music of His flute, the way in which He attracts people and gives them shelter – all these are in perfect harmony with prapatti, because an individual feels free after surrendering everything to the Macrocosmic Entity. Here Párthasárathi says, “Do your karma, for you have an inalienable right to your karma.” Karma is defined as Karma Brahmeti karma bahu kurviita – “You are human. Simply look upon karma as a veritable expression of Brahma [Supreme Entity] and do as much karma as you can.”
"Is this in agreement with prapatti or at variance with prapatti? It seems to be opposed to prapatti but in actuality it is not. If we go deeper into the subject, we see that this quinquelemental body, this body of flesh and bones, this mind made of ectoplasmic stuff, this reflecting plate that acts as the witnessing entity (known as átman or puruśa in philosophy) – all these have their origin in Parama Puruśa. It is the Cosmic desire that is the source of the creation of the human body, mind and soul. If we utilize this body, mind and jiivátmá [soul, self, unit consciousness], we are only following the path of prapatti. That is, we are utilizing the things given to us by Parama Puruśa. All these things, the body, mind and self, are His gifts. Had He willed otherwise, they would not have existed. Without Cosmic desire, nothing can exist, nothing can move, not even a blade of grass. So in accordance with the spirit of prapatti, that the body is a machine, we can say that He has been kind enough to provide the body and mind, to be utilized for work only. Hence I follow the spirit of prapatti in using them."
"In the beginning, karma seemed to be against prapatti, but karma is not antithetical to prapatti. It is definitely in conformity with prapatti. So a boy or a girl who does work is surely following the path of prapatti. Even if there is any room for indolence while enjoying the flute of Vraja Krśńa, there is not the least room for inaction in the clarion call of the karma yoga of Párthasárathi Krśńa." (1)
Reference
1. Namami Krsnasundaram, Krśńa and Prapattiváda – 2 (Discourse 5)
== Section: Important Teaching ==
Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Due to the foolishness of human beings many creatures and objects will not survive the period fixed for them by nature. Prior to their stipulated period of longevity they will be swallowed up by eternity. Human beings due to their utmost folly have annihilated numerous objects and thus prepared their own funeral pyre. Such folly on the part of human beings is unbearable. Human beings must be cautious from now on. They must restructure their thoughts, plans and activities in accordance with the dictates of ecology. There is no alternative.” (1)
Reference
1. Neo-humanism in a Nutshell - 2, How Cruel Human Beings Are! – Excerpt B
== Section: Important Teaching ==
Do not stray even a step away
Ananda Marga ideology states, "You exist in a vast, limitless ocean of rasa or essences. A never-ending, radiant wave of manifestations is surging within and without you and radiating through all the ten directions – the indescribable vibrational expressions of small and great, accented and unaccented, eternally flowing thought-waves. Behave properly and reasonably with every expression, with every manifestation of the Cosmic mind. But always remember the One, Who is the essence of all these diverse vibrational manifestations. Train yourselves in the ideal of the lily, which blossoms in the mud and has to keep itself engaged in the struggle for existence day in and day out, parrying, bracing and fighting the shocks of muddy water and the force of storms and squalls and various other vicissitudes of fortune; and yet it does not forget the moon above. It keeps its love for the moon constantly alive. It seems but a most ordinary flower: there is nothing extraordinary about it. Yet, this most ordinary little flower has a romantic tie with the great moon. It has focused all its desires on the moon. Similarly, perhaps you are an ordinary creature – perhaps you have to pass your days in the ups and downs of worldly existence – yet do not forget that Supreme One. Keep all your desires inclined towards Him. Always keep yourself merged in His thought. Go deep into the mood of that Infinite Love. By this your worldly activities will not be hampered in any way."
Kumud candramá dúrete rahiyá yemati rákhaye priiti,
Temati Shrii Rádhá kánu páne cáhi grha káj kare niti.
Ananda Marga ideology states, "No matter what circumstances you are in, never lose sight of the Infinite One. Degradation is impossible for those who have accepted the Supreme Being as the Ideal of their lives. Indulging in mean thoughts only engenders crude vibrations in the Citta, as the result of which you will have to take rebirth in lower species in order to suffer the lowly Saḿskáras created by those crude vibrations. Thus you must arouse higher vibrations in your Citta. Even a man of King Bharata's calibre had to take rebirth as a deer because at the time of his death he was deeply anxious about a fawn. Thus regardless of what you are at present or what you may possibly become in the future, do not digress from the ideal of the Great in any circumstances: do not stray even a step away from the path of realization of Absolute Bliss. Ananda Marga or the path to eternal bliss is the only path for you." (1)
Reference
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 3, Vibration, Form and Colour
== Section: Important Teaching ==
The wealthy suffer more mentally
Ananda Marga says, "If money or wealth would have been the solution of all the problems then in that case rich persons would have always enjoyed being in a state of bliss. But in society it is not like that. The suffering of the rich is more than the poor." (1)
Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Human desire knows no end. Millionaires want to become multimillionaires, because they are not satisfied with their million. Ask the millionaires if they are happy with their money. They will say, “Where is the money? I am somehow pulling on.” This answer indicates their ignorance of aparigraha. But such feelings have another adverse effect on body and mind. Out of excessive fondness for physical or mental pleasures people become mad to earn money and amass wealth. As money becomes the be-all and end-all of life, the mind gets crudified. Constant hankering after money results in negligence of one’s health, and this makes the body unfit. Therefore, santośa sádhaná lies in being contented with the earnings of normal labour, without any undue pressure on the body and mind. To remain contented, one has to make a special type of mental effort to keep aloof from external allurements.” (2)
Note: In some of our western countries nowadays, and wherever materialism reigns supreme and money is more free-flowing, the number of psychic diseases is multiplying day by day. The "haves" are coming under the grip of mental ailments like depression, frustration, hopeless, and melancholia. Many are conflicted and suffer from a degrading psychic flow. That is why so many westerners, buckled by materialism like those in the USA, go to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and other counselors for their mental health issues. And the number of adults being treated with antidepressant medications / drugs has more than doubled since 1999 to an alarming 15% of the adult population. Without medication and counseling etc, they fall into a tailspin of moderate to deep depression. Even then those two therapies (i.e. counseling and medication) are just band-aid measures. They do not address and resolve the problem in a meaningful, permanent manner. The only true cure is psycho-spiritual practices like sadhana etc. Only then may one develop a balanced mind and achieve equipoise and peace.
References:
1. Allahabad, DMC 1984
2. Guide to Human Conduct, Santosa
== Section: Important Teaching ==
Baba’s humour: All Ánanda Márgiis are ghosts
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
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