| Excerpts from some of the books by
Poojya Swamiji |
 |
Essential Concepts in Bhagavad-Gita (Volume 1)
Bhagavad-Gita does not say that the objective external results of one's actions are to be renounced. In fact, it is impossible to do so. By renunciation of results, the Gita means renunciation of the subjective reactions produced in the mind. It exhorts the seeker to accept with readiness the desirable as well as the undesirable results with samatva (evenness). By defining yoga as samatva, the Gita has struck a unique note in spiritual wisdom and its actual pursuit.
***
By Maya we do not mean anything totally unreal. An expression which defies assessment either as real or as unreal is called Maya. The objects seem to be real on the ground of being perceived, but they are unreal on the ground of their changefulness and ephemerality. A proper understanding of the concept of Maya makes us aware of the real nature of the world. It frees us from the undue attachment towards the objects of the world.
***
Karma Yoga does not mean ceaseless pursuit of Karma. It truly means cultivating and preserving the yoga attitude in the mind and intelligence while performing, before performing and after completion of any karma.
Thus, like Jnana yoga, Karma yoga too is an intelligence-based pursuit. In Jnana yoga, the basic contemplation is on the non-acting, non-changing, all-pervading Soul. In Karma yoga, the basic pursuit is to observe keenly the mind's reactions and to sublimate them by activating the samatva-buddhi (equal vision).
***
Reflect relentlessly on the body different Soul. Let the mind be free of the external dependence and expectations. Let the activities have their natural flow and result. While the body remains involved externally, the mind should remain disinvolved internally.
My Beloved Baba
"Texts only say or declare. The deeksha actually does, and that alone does. Deeksha is the fire and brilliance which the Guru lights from him in the disciple. From then on it begins to blaze forth. But the flame has to be preserved and strengthened by sadhana to blaze well." (Page 97)
"Spiritual life is even today as sweet, warm and sublime as it was ages ago. Mankind, in spite of the changes in life-style and civilization, is still a full heir to the inestimable spiritual bequest of the great Upanishadic Seers." (Page 173)
***
This is an exceptionally open narration of the significant events and developments from the spiritual life and pursuit of Baba Gangadhara Paramahamsa (Swamiji's Gurudev) as well as Swamiji himself. In the background of interesting episodes, rare Guru-Sishya dialogues and interactions, Swamiji has exposed very deep and sublime truths - so essential for any dedicated seeker, but rarely discussed with frankness and fidelity.
