The Hindu : Miscellaneous / Religion : Seek company of saints

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Saturday, Sep 11, 2004

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous - Religion

Seek company of saints

CHENNAI, SEPT.11 . The Supreme Being (Brahman) and His power of manifestation (Sakti) are inseparable but confusion arises in the minds of spiritual seekers because they are spoken of as distinct. The ultimate principle is one and everything subsumed in it. Then how does one explain the diversity, which is only evident to experience? Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa used to explain this enigma to his devotees citing the example of the ocean and the waves arising in it. The ocean is one expanse of water and the waves appear in it but in essence there is no distinction between them. The wave looks different because of name and form. So also is the case with Brahman and Sakti. The diversity has sprung from the Absolute.

In his discourse, Swami Gautamananda said wherever name and form were apparent one must understand that they are the manifestation of the Absolute. Such philosophical truths can be comprehended only when one adopts the spiritual path wherein certain prescribed exercises are to be practised. First is listening to the exposition of the truth from realised saints and preceptors well versed in the scriptures, as they will speak from experience. Then the seeker must commit the facts he has learnt to memory and finally reflect on them in meditation till he is able to experience the truth of what he has learnt. If one meditates on the truth that God is present in all, then it will be possible to overcome the ego and identify with the Self (Atman) within.

For those desirous of liberation Sri Ramakrishna used to emphasise cultivation of the company of saints and devotees. In such company it will be possible to exchange each other's experiences and in the process doubts will get cleared and faith in God will be strengthened. Moreover, holy company will act as insulation from worldly influences which are detrimental to spiritual progress.

Unless there is conviction that we have come from God we will not seek Him and hence saints are role models as they live in God. Just as one cultivates the company of fellow professionals to achieve success so also company of saints is spiritually elevating. Tulsidas reiterates that holy company is the fruition of the spiritual merit accrued and a definite indication of God's grace. Worldly life results effortlessly but effort is necessary only to turn to spiritual life. Initially one may doubt whether the time spent on spiritual practice will be rewarding but its value can be appreciated only in holy company.

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