Are We Aliens?

 Going by the horoscopes that indicate the birth star and the planetary positions in the twelve houses, the jiva is destined to be what it should be! Every step of life is predetermined as per this. It is prarabhda, karma, or whatever one calls it. Thus, it is open to question whether the jiva is independent having its own free lance? The jiva-rashi are the product  or by-product of soil and water as far as its terrestrial existence is concerned. But the chaitanya, prana, manas, buddhi and ahankar are all non-terrestrial! 

  The source of life is traced to the electromagnetic waves- the Light and energy emitted by Stars-near and far off! The stars are not permanent entities. They too are born and die out. Some are dwarf, and some giants. Some stars are far far away from the earth, but their emission can still influence us! The fundamental particles, the neutrons, fermions, the bosons and all that indicate the mysterious ways the nature works. Each and every star is different in structure and composition. Some are found to be made of gold, silver, and other precious minerals. All these stars are initially in gaseous state and turn into other forms as they undergo cooling and condensation. The fundamental particles are the same in the beginning, but undergo transformation later. Hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen are the first to form. Water vapor, ice and water are different forms of the same combination of hydrogen and oxygen. Carbon, calcium, chlorine, etc.are all formed in a gradual process. The earth is made up of Nickel, iron, titanium, magnesium and all other minerals are formed in a gradual transformation of the basic elements. The aluminum and silicon are the lightest on the surface as compared to nickel and iron at the core of the earth. More than 78 percent of the earth's surface is covered by water and the heavier magmatic material supports the vast and deep oceans . It is still a wonder how life forms appeared on the earth!

 In fact, the emissions of rays of light of stars are the source of life. In this sense of the term the life on earth is the end product of these emissions! The elements that constitute the stars decide the things to come! Thus we, the humans, are all 'Light' only. Light means just not only the light, but also include Intelligence (I), Gravitation (G), heat (H), Time (T). The energy derived from the stars sustain the life to the extent the body can utilize and survive; however, the body is gross and depends on extraneous matter for its support like soil (food), water, air and the like

  Thus, everything is interdependent and the jiva is a link in the chain. The soul is the core, focus of the circle of vast universe! jivatman and paramatman are one!

     

Transmigration of Souls

When a person dies, it is stated that only the physical body is consigned to fire or buried. But what happens to the souls very interesting. If the desire of the dead person is to fulfill his unfinished tasks, he/she will definitely take birth in a family that desires a child and that too which can support this jiva seeking help and support. So, the question of rebirth is certain, and that too, in a family that can support and help fulfill its desire. it is also stated that the soul remains in the place where its body was discarded and is driven out by the Vedic chants on the specific days when the family priest performs the rites. Some times it waits outside the house where it died and enters the food of the couple desirous of having child, normally on the thirteenth day function! It is also stated that there is a seven-life rebirth cycle in the same family donning different roles!

 What is soul? Does it migrate? Whether the Soul is capable of taking any form it likes? Whether a person can take birth wherever he/she likes? These are some of the questions that make us think seriously about human life on earth and its travails. To answer these questions, it must be made clear whether the soul is a real entity like the energy, force, light, magnetism, or it is something else? In fact we do not know all the answers. It may be termed as 'energy', may be pranic that supports life forms unlike coal or oil. Also, it maybe a special type of power that that can function in any number of ways! The scriptures speak of prakruti (Nature) that shapes life. It also speaks of the purusha, the seed of life. Together, these prakruti and purusha. The science speaks of the same in a different tone and different languages. There is not much difference.

 It may be fairly said that life is nothing but energy, prana in animals and plants., It is energy, or even fire (indhana) in matter as in coal, oi and natural gas. Now, it is curious to know how matter and energy are two distinct entities that can change mutually by mere vibration at different wave lengths, frequency and intensity! Energy becomes Matter and Matter can be reversed into Energy. Einstein gave us the formula that Energy is equal to mass into velocity square. Now this applies to life-energy, too. In fact all that exist here on the earth, including the Planets and their satellites, owe their existence to Sun, the Star, the chief source of all energy forms. As an energy particle, the prana can move without any restriction. the Atman is also energy, and as such, can move and take any form of matter- physical, chemical, or biological as per the nature's dictat! 

  When a person dies, it is the physical, gross, body of flesh and bones that become diseased, disintegrated and disappears into soil from which it came into existence. It is the soil that supports the jiva, life forms, with food. Water and air are the mainstay of life. All these are energy in one form or the other! In fact, everything is energy and its manifestations. Now these bodies that appear and disappear are short-lived due to their inherent physical nature. But the Atman, soul, remains as the pure form energy, unborn and eternal. It can freely move and take any form it desires. The epic Garuda purana narrates the travails of the soul. A person whose body withers and soul leaves will have to cross the realms of vyahruti (bhu, bhuvah, etc.) in order to escape the shackles of rebirth. Since desire binds it to the bhu, bhuvah and  higher realms, the escape velocity is not sufficient and returns to the realms of bhu or bhuvah. Thus we find the myriads of life forms in the entire space, in one form or the other. Heavier the specific gravity of the soul, nearest the earth and gross its form will be. Thus there is nothing higher or lower in these life forms. All are biological matter subject to brith death and decay. There is no special significance to life unless the jiva strives to attain its pure state of Energy losing all its traits and heavy luggage or burden of karma. Once born  human, choice is there to escape the clutches of this prakruti in the form of time space and causality!

Did All Life-forms Appear Simultaneously?

 Today, we find almost eighty crores of life forms on earth! The question arises whether all these different forms appear simultaneously or at different geological times. The earliest forms are traced to 250 million years. The Archean era marks the beginning of life. Paleozoic era is said to be the starting point of well developed life forms. There are five distinct periods of time when different life-forms appeared- say, from amoeba to fish, frog, reptiles and birds. There are slow gradual transformations adapting to environment like aquatic to amphibian, arboreal to mammals, and leading to the primates- monkey and man. There may be further development, too, who knows?

  The spiritual texts state that life appeared simultaneously. It is stated that "The Lord said, I Am Alone, I shall be many". Eko'ham bahusyami! Lo, there appeared myriads of life forms. "He created and entered into it", is another scriptural statement. tad srushtva tadevaanupravishat ! When He, the Lord, created, it was not functioning. So entered into it through the hole in the head (brahma randhra), and settled in the heart! Thus, it is very clear that what all that exist is the creation of the Lord.

 Now, the question arises, "What is the purpose of Life? Actually, "Life is just to Live" Beyond this there is nothing!" However, it may be added, "Life is to realize who we are and why we are here?" Yes. The human life form is endowed with power of thinking. So it is apt to say, one should realize the purpose of all this existence. One take recourse to scriptural studies and find out the goal of life. Human life is a waste if one does not realize the secret of creation and the purpose of all this struggle for existence. In fact, to visualize the Creator is the first purpose of life according tp Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa, He says, "Parameshwara darshanam eve purushartha sadhanan". 

 The ultimate joy and happiness rests within oneself and this can be experience in absolute silence!

Of Births and Deaths

 Perhaps it is only the Planet Earth that hosts a variety of living creatures from the tiniest germs to the gigantic whales and elephants! But, this does not preclude  existence of life elsewhere! The first simplest form of protozoa are the mollusks and algae. A little moisture, sunlight and soil will do to create life. Water is the supporter of life. In a way, the Sun is the chief source of energy for all that exists. The distance from the sun decides the light, heat and the life supporting ingredients for life on the earth. But, the wonders of all wonders is how the cell division and multiplication creates the multifarious life forms! The first impregnated cell contains all the knowledge, technology and memory for building up what it desires. So, the wise said, "Desire is Brahmn". But for the desire, there is no chance for multiplication. This is evident from the life of all that exist. No desire, no life.

 The scientists have made much progress in discovering the secrets of 'Cell'. A simple biological entity is created out of a physical entity like a mineral! A virus is a good example. The five basic elements that create and sustain life are the Oxygen and hydrogen gaseous elements. Together the form water in which the life begins. A cell has a protein cover which holds amino acids, enzymes, vitamins and all that is required for a lifeform. The proteins are numerous, may be around two lacs, and vitamins are many and varied. The Intelligence stored in these is beyond human ingenuity to even guess! One single impregnated cell becomes a tissue, organ, and body! Each function of different cells that is borne out of the mother cell is beyond our imagination. There perfect symmetry in design and execution of the divine plan. However, everything decays, disintegrated and disappears in matter of time. Thus, the question remains. What for is all these creation and dissolution? 

  May it be said, it's the lila of the Lord. Bhagavan Shree Krishna Says, "I Am the Self of All". I only exist and nothing besides Me.  If it is so, then, what is it we know?

Religion and Nationality

 The days of Religion dictating the national ethos gradually disappeared, England was ruled by the Church for quite a long time. The problem has become more complicated with large scale migration of populations over the centuries. The term 'secularism' has added new dimension to the problem. There are conservatives who want to preserve their ancient cultural traditions amidst irritation and friction due to invading cultures. Besides, there are mischievous elements like the missionaries trying to convert the gullible showing pity and offering financial help to the poor. There are funding agencies abroad for this purpose. These have added to the problem.  

  Now, the problem is one of resurrecting the indigenous culture, tradition and other family functions with inclusiveness. The invading cultures are always found to be deficit, particularly when they are strangers. This problem is further complicated due to large scale influx of immigrant population. To move forward with all inclusiveness or backward facing problems of assimilation is the question. The modern youth have no idea about all these since they are busy seeking new pastures. Only future will tell the shape of things to come? 

Dissolution (Laya)- Viashnava Concept

 The Viashnava concept of life is one of total fulfilment and emancipation at the feet of the Lord (sayujya). It is one of total surrender to the 'Will' of the Lord. The Vaishnavites believe in bhakti, jnyan and vairagya. Hence they take to worship of the Lord Vishnu right from the beginning and make it a ritualistic way. in Lakshmi Tantra, it is stated that, the yogi continues to exist in transcendental form, the true nature of vaishnava emancipation, mukti. The emancipated being is not absolutely extinguished in the existence of the 'Absolute Being', but is lifted up to the level of transcendental existence. This existence is identical with that of 'Shakti'. The concept of emancipation basically depends on the concept of Shakti (Mahalakshmi)  and Her relation to God (Narayana) in the sense of two-in-one,and secondly on the concept of jiva and its relation to God, as being parts of a whole. These are elaborately dealt with in the Bengali tradition of the Chaitanya school. (Introduction. Lakshmi Tantra, Sanjukta Gupta, MLBD)

'Srushti Rahasya' and 'Sthitigati'

  The secret of creation and the nature of sustenance are well documented in a number of scriptures. Lakshmi Tantra explains how Shakti is mainly responsible for everything that exist! Pancharatra Agamas, Vishnu Purana, Ahirbudhnya samhita, Jayakhya samhita  and other scriptures also explain creation. There are different levels such as go loka, tapo loka, deva loka, the realms of manu, pitrus, etc. However, yogashastra makes it amply clear how all these exist in our own mindor consciousness! The sthiti (Existence) and laya (Dissolution) aspects are elaborately dealt with.  

  AT the first instance, there are Thirty-five sattvata realities, transcended by brahmn. The highest is god or 'Bhagavan'. absolute void (brahmn, also, where God lives- the Highest seat/Parmam dhaman), Param Purusha (The Highest Person), shakti, niyati, kaala, sattva,rajas, tamas, maya, prasuti, prakruti, antahkarana (buddhi, m anas, ahankara), and the ten indriya (five jnyanendriyas and five karmendriya. These govern all that exists as the cosmic entity.

 Bhagavan includes all divine manifestations. Purusha (Vishnu) is the Man- the living being (?) and his shakti is called Mahalakshmi. It is here, what the sages say as, "God created Man in His own Image and in turn, man created God." Kriyashakti or the active aspect of God is Mahalakshmi. Niyati is mahavidya (cosmic wisdom) 'Kaala' is Mahakali, the Primordial Nature and the material source of creation.  

  Thus, we as the mortals can find our place in the Creation as the Indriya created to experience the creation! But for this, there is no other purpose, as it seems, for our existence. The question of liberation, emancipation, mukti, moksha, etc. do not arise here. These are left to the jiva that is tired of the worldly existence and says, 'enough is enough' and seeks redemption.  

 So, it may be surmised that the jivarashi appearing here on this earth have no other business but to sustain itself on whatever is available and keep itself  busy with whatever it is interested? The jiva is thus just a product of the elements coming out of and getting reverted to its primordial nature!

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'Karma' and 'Jnyan'

The terms 'karma' (Action) and 'jnyan' (Knowledge) have much deeper meaning and connotation than they appear to be at the outset. Karma is action, as also, the fruits of action (karma phala) both accumulated, carry over and recurring! It is very difficult to know what sort of karma afflict us in our life. There are actions stipulated in the scriptures (shastra vihita), prohibited (nishidda), and ordained (obligatory or mandatory) actions for different age-groups and states of life. As regards, 'jnyan', there are the lower, worldly (aihika) and the paramarthika (other-worldly)!and some special nes for those who seek liberation, mukti, moksha.

Chapter III of the Bhagavad-Gita deals with 'Karma Yoga'. Here, Arjuna wants to know why the Lord, asks him to do the ordained duty (here, 'fight the battle' as kshatriya) although He is of the opinion that 'Jnyan' is superior to karma. The Lord has explicitly stated: nahin jnyanena sadrusham ! meaning, 'there is nothing superior to Jnyan'. Still He asks Arjuna to do his duty. So, Arjuna wants to know why the Lord is asking him to do his duty (karma) when 'Jnayan' (Knowledge) is superior to karma (action).

  Here, the problem is very complicated. The Lord has made it clear that 'one should perform the assigned job without expecting any reward! In fact, no body understands what He speaks'! Normally, the mortals are driven by desire and perform action to fulfil their desires. It is really difficult to understand the spoken words of the Lord. He, the Lord says, to do your duty is a right but to award the fruits of your action is my prerogative. It is My sweet will and pleasure that I give whatever I want and that to whenever I wish. However, He assures that justice will be done and He would give nothing more, or less, neither early, or late! So the best thing for us is to do our ordained duties without bothering about the fruits  or rewards. This sort of surrender to the will pf the Lord is the way to redemption, emancipation (mukti). There will be no bondage (karma bandhana) when action is done without  any expectation in return (nishkama karma). This indeed, is the the real 'jnyan' and, action done with this knowledge yields is superior to action done without this knowledge! 

Raja Vidya,Raja Guhya Vidya.

 idam tu te guhytamam pravakshyam...! (Ch. IX)

  The Supreme Lord says, "I shall tell you about the most secret (Knowledge)"  He is revealing this knowledge to Arjuna saying, "You are dear to Me". Hence, whoever becomes dear to Him will get to know this, not all! 

 What is this secret? Arjuna is baffled. He says, "My Lord, how can I understand this, if it is secret to you? The secret revealed here is really a big secret Btrahmavidya, Atmajnyan, and a yogopanishat. It is the knowledge concerning one's own Self. The secret has to be revealed by a teacher, a guru. It is revealed in the ears to the disciple who is seated close, upa vishad. This comes as an apta mantra when meditated upon will reveal the Self, the Atman.

 It is also important to note here that this secret cannot be obtained from any other source. The scriptures, at bet, can, at best, guide us; but, these cannot reveal the Atman, brahmn! This knowledge is to be obtained by self-effort. It is Atma sakshatkara, visualizing oneself!, 

  The easiest way is to attain to 'Self', Atma sakshatkara, is to wait upon the Lord for His Grace. This Bhagavad anugraha is a must. It is He, who only can bless the one whom He likes? So, it seems there is no other way but to constantly meditate on Him!

Gouri and Ganesha

 It is very interesting to know that the public celebrating Ganesha festival is credited to Bal Gangadhar Tilak. It is Tilak who used this public celebration during the Pre-Independence days to unite people. It started from Pune and Mumbai and gradually it picked up all over Maharashtra and Karnataka. However, performing Gouri puja as  hatalika and svarna gouri is restricted. When Ganesha and Gouri are worshiped it is strange that Shiva is left out?

  It is Srikrishna dvaipayana who is called Vyasa Deva who scripted the eighteen epics, six of which pertain to Shiva. Besides this, we have a number of scriptures that depict Ganesha as the preeminent God, who is worshiped first to invoke His blessings before taking up any function. Even God worship Ganesh! Ganeshs gets the first place, prathama vandanam! There are always three versions of all scriptures. It all depends on the level of understanding of the people. First level is bhoutika (physical), the second level is manasika (mental) and the third one is spiritual (adhyatmika). The third level is almost beyond the ability of common people. 

  Physically, we have the Shiva lingam, the elephant-faced Gajanana, and Parvati Devi worshiped in temples and at home. Actually, Shiva represents the King of Kailasa parvata region, with Parvati, daughter of the Mountain (parvata putri) as his queen. Ganesha and Shanmukha are mentioned as thir children. This dates back to 500 000 years.  

 The second level is that of  manasika or mental images. Here, Shiva is Parameshvara, the supreme Lord of the universe. It is as good as the Sun for us. Parvati is the Earth. Ganesha or Ganapati and Shanmukha, the former made of clay and worshiped  is symbolic of all jiva rashi.

 At the adhyatmic level, it is stated that Shiva is the vital airs, pranashakti. Breathe in is 'Sa' and breathe out is 'ha' (sa ha eva shivah!), Parvati is the physical body. Ganapati is the muladhara prajnya (basal plexus). This is how the jivarashi are protected by water, food, and air!

 

TIME

 It is the ingenuity of the humans that they have dissected and divided what does not even exist as 'Time'! 'Time' is something that has no beginning, middle, or end. Time is eternal. It may be said that the universe is so vast, deep, and immeasurably extensive and 'Time' lies beyond this! For mortals, the terrestrial beings, this concept of 'Time' (kaal) is closely associated with the Sun, Surya. We are all soorayah! Our day begins with sunrise and ends with the sunset, heralding the onset of night ruled by the Moon. The moon chandrama waxes and wanes during the lunar month- a fortnight of waning called Krishna Paksha and another fortnight of waxing moon, called Shukla paksha. In a way, it may be said that the measurement of Time begins with the birth of the Sun. Time is defined as the interval between two events, like sunrise and sunset, moonrise and moon set, birth and death, etc. However, let's see what the Vedic doctrines speak about this.

 The wise say, 'Time' is relative. All that is relative is not true! Some others say, Time is elastic. Time expands and  contracts according to one's mind and moods. A happy man, elated, joyful, knows no time. Once a college girl asked the famous scientist Albert Einstein, What is Time? The answer is very interesting. Einstein said, Dear,  

 Time draws this chariot with seven wheels. Seven are the hubs; its axle is non-death. At the head of all beings Time proceeds unceasingly, the first among the Gods. Above Time is set a brimful vessel. Simultaneously we see Time here, there, everywhere. Set face to face with all existences, Time is throne, men say, in the loftiest realm. Time has gathered together all beings that are; he has passed through all the gathered beings. He who was father has become their son. There is no glory higher than his. Time generated the Sky above and this vast Earth. The passing moments present and future, by him set swinging, are reckoned out in due proportions. Time brought forth fate-filled chance. In Time the Sun shines and burns. In Time the eye spies from afar. In Time all existences are. [Atharva Veda XIX, 53, 2-6].

  In Time is consciousness and life, In Time is concentrated name By Time, when he draws close at hand, all creatures are with gladness filled. In Time is energy, in Time the highest good. In Time is the Holy Utterance. Time is the Lord of all that is, the Father, he, of the Creator. Sent forth by him, from him all this was born . On him is it established. So soon as he has become Brahman, Time supports the highest Deity. Time created the creatures. Time created in the beginning the Lord of creatures. From Time comes the Self-Existent. Energy likewise from Time derives. [Atharva Veda XIX, 53, 7-10].

From Time came into being the Waters, from Time the Holy Word, Energy, and the regions. By Time [each day] the Sun arises, in Time he goes to rest again. [Atharva Veda XIX, 54, 1]. 

When the five instruments of knowledge stand still, together with the mind and when the intellect does not move, that is called the Supreme State. [Yajurveda, Katha Upa., Part Two, Chapter III, 10] 

Vedic verses

 There are one hundred and one arteries of the heart, one of which pierces the crown of the head. Going upward by it, a man at death attains immortality. But when his prana passes out by other arteries, going in different directions, then he is reborn in the world. The Purusha, not larger than a thumb, the inner Self, always dwells in the hearts of men. Let a man separate Him from his body with steadiness, as one separates the tender stalk from a blade of grass. Let him know that Self as the Bright, as the Immortal-yea, as the Bright, as the Immortal. Having received this wisdom taught by the King of Death and the entire process of yoga, Nachiketa became free from impurities and death and attained Brahman. Thus it will be also with any other who knows, in this manner, the inmost Self. [Yajurveda, Katha Upa., Part Two, Ch. III, 16-18].

All this-whatever exists in this changing universe-should be covered by the Lord. Protect the Self by renunciation. Lust not after any man's wealth. If a man wishes to live a hundred years on this earth, he should live performing action. For you, who cherish such a desire and regard yourself as a man, there is no other way by which you can keep work from clinging to you. [Yajurveda, Isa Upa., Part 1, Chapter 1, 1-2]

'Karma' and 'Jnyana'

  "'To do' or 'not to do' that's the question". Arjuna in the Bhagavad-Gita.  

 Whatever one does attracts the fruits of action. None can keep quiet. Hence, right knowledge is advocated by the wise. 'Right knowledge' is important; but, it is hard to come by for we are at different levels of existence. Bhagavan Shree Krishna says, 'Arjuna, it is difficult to understand what i say'! He adds, 'Many scholars think they know and speak as if they have understood My words. Certainly, they do not understand for it requires a certain higher level of understanding'. Here, in Ch. III verse 1, Arjuna says, 'O Janardana, if you say wisdom is superior to action, why do you ask me to take recourse to action? Again, in Ch. V. verse 1, Arjuna says, "O Krishna, you praise renunciation of action. Tell me for certain, which is superior, action or renunciation?  Here, one should add the word 'yoga' after 'karma' (action) and after 'sanyasa' (renunciation). 'Karma yoga' means action without desire for fruits of action (karma phala). This renunciation of fruits of action is superior to action with desire for fruits of action. However, the mortals are driven to action by desire and in the course of this, the jivi acquires fruits of action and the seeds of rebirth! But, the Lord is very clear about renunciation and says, "Offer all your actions to Me. The fruits of action (karma phala) will not bind you"! This is the easiest way to escape the results of deeds (paapa and punya) that create bondage!

  Now, as to action (Karma) and renunciation (Sanyasa), it is better to combine the two and make it 'karmasanyasa! Karma sanyasa yoga is advocated to attain emancipation. Do everything as ordained and leave the result to His Will. As to Knowledge, the Lord says, "Wisdom is superior to action". Nahin jnyanena sadrusham. But, the Lord says, 'Do your duty'. Here action is advocated by the Lord. So Arjuna is confused and askes, which is better: Action or wisdom? The answer is tricky, again. It is action with wisdom. The Lord says, yogasu karma koushalam! But wisdom is not forthcoming so easily?

 The eternal question is how to perform action with wisdom. The answer is :tasmad yogirbhava arjunaa! One should perform action in the name of the Lord and thereby seek emancipation. Action begets reaction. Rebirth is certain whether one does good deeds or bad deeds. Having done good deeds, the jiva has to enjoy its fruits and take birth here on this earth where anything born has to die! So, there is no escape unless the jiva works for total emancipation, mukti, by total surrender to the Lord (Sharanagati tattva). 

 Thus, it is very clear that the tormented jivas looking for salvation have to take to Bhagavad-Gita upasane and follow the doctrines carefully. He, the Blessed Lord assures, "maam upetya tu kounteya sarva paapebhyo mokshayishyami... punarjanma na vidyate!"

Jnyanam te aham savijnyanam idam...

Bhagavan Shree Krishna  says, "I shall tell you in detail of this Knowledge which is combined with realization (savijnyanam)  He the Lord says, "Once you experience this, there is nothing else to be known again.." (Gita VII. verse 2). 

  What is this  'Jnyanam' ('Knowledge') that is the ultimate one should know? What is this 'savijnyanam' that one should experience, realize? It's so simple that one cannot even believe that! It is that 'That -' the Knowledge of the Self" which one should know! However, He, the Lord hastens to add.."Among thousands of men a rare one endeavors for perfection. Even the perfected ones who are diligent, one perchance knows Me in Truth". (Gita VII verse 3). 

  Further, it is clarified that the eight principle elements (ashta prakrutih) are the Bhumirapo analo vayuh kham manorbuddhir eva cha ! Add egoism (ahankara) to these. These are lower or inferior prakrutih. There is the higher prakrutih that of the Lord which has taken the form of individual souls by which the world is upheld!

  Contemplate on these statements.  

Krishna, Krishna, Krishna.

  The nation is celebrating Shree Krishna Janmashtami today, 30th August 2021. Who is this Shree Krishna? It is needless to ask this question since everybody knows the story at the end of dva para yuga. It is Krishna who steered the Mahabharata war as a neutral between the Pandavas and Kauravas at the Warfront in Kurukshetra. Krishna is born in Mathura and was taken to King Nanda at Dwarka where he has grown up. Actually, as the story goes, Kamsa kept his sister Devaki and brother-in-law Vasudeva in prison for fear of being killed by their son-to-be-born! This incident took place while Kamsa was joyfully celebrating the marriage of his sister and taking the procession. He heard the voice of warning not to be so joyful and he would be killed by the eighth child born to them. He went on killing all the children in the fear. However, the eighth female child Yogamaya escaped from his hands and Krishna descended in her place! So far as Krishna's birth. Remember that He, the Lord descended as avatara as stated in the Gita, yada yada hi Glanirbhavati Bharata... sambhavami yuge yuge! 

  In the Great Epic Mahabharata, Krishna is depicted by Vyasa Deva as the King of Vrushni and maternal uncle of Arjuna. Pandava were ruling Hastinapura and the cousins usurped their kingdom cheating them through a game of dice. Krishna stood by the Pandava and became the Charioteer of Arjuna in the famous battle of Kurukshetra. There are occasions when Krishna revealed Who He is to Duryodhana and Arjuna. He revealed His virat svarupa and gave divya darshan as Vishnu Bhagavan. Now, the problem is about the date, time place of birth of the avatara purusha. Krishna is, for all practical purposes God Incarnate. He is Vishnu, the all-pervasive Consciousness. He pervades the universe as pure consciousness  and is present as an iota of it in all jivas. Pancha bhuta are charged with Energy, Life force and sustains the universe. 

 Krishna, etymologically means 'That which does not diminish'! Here, in our epics (purana) created by Sri Krishna Dvaipayana, who later came to be known as  Veda Vyasa due to classification of Veda into four divisions, has one Krishna in Mahabharata and another in Srimad Bhagavatam. The latter, depicts the childhood days of Krishna. There is yet another Shree Krishna depicted as Bhagavan (God) by the Lord Himself. This is the famous Bhagavad-Gita. Here, Bhagavan speaks about everything one ought to know about- the creation, sustenance, dissolution, merger and the like. The word by word depiction of the universe explained in the Gita is not found in any known scriptures in the world, so far. Bhagavan Shree Krishna speaks about Himself and all His lila, sport. The Bhagavad-Gita differs from the epics in that the spoken words of the  Lord are in the form of instructions given to Sun God prior to creation. He, goes on to say that It is He Who gives the Energy, Light, Power of Life to the Sun!

  When we celebrate the Birth Day of Bhagavan Shree Krishna on the Shravan Ashtami, little do we remember the words spoken by the Lord in the Gita. He, the Lord says, Mudha, these people make me a child and celebrate my Birth, whereas I am neither born, nor do I ever die! In fact these people give me a date of birth as 5252 BCE? In fact, I am ever young! I only exist and nothing exists beside Me. I only appear as everything that is seen, felt, experiences here and I am the experiencer! "Where is the world that is not pervaded by Me", He asks? He, the Lord says, "I Am the Self of All" Aham eva Atmanah ! 

  Thus, The Gita is a beautiful guide that can enlighten and liberate the souls that suffer under the Illusory powers of Prakruti. One has th break the shackles of Maya and get liberated with the Gita. The Bhagavad-Gita is Brahma Vidya and Yoga Shastra. Meditate on Bhagavan Shree Krishna.

'Akshara Brahma'

 The fundamental principle of creation, existence, and dissolution has to be clearly understood. First principle is Akasha (Space) and Vayu (air) freely moves within it! The sky is unaffected by whatever happens within it. Vayu only creates Agni (due to friction, constriction). Jala, and Prithvi and together these constitute pancha mahabhuta, the foundation of the universe.  The air is subject to expansion and contraction due to the influence of heat. Heat expands and cold contracts. This expansion and contraction is the root cause of all that exists in a certain form and function. The Mind reflects the same principle. Expansion is caused by heat due to friction. Agni (Fire) or heat is the basic principle of creation and the deities are: soma, surya, and anala. Everything is brahmn. sarvam khaluvidam brahma! Space is Brahmn. Kam brahma, kham brahma is the Vedic doctrine. Fire or Agni is another Vedic principle. It is the inherent qualities of Fire (Agni) that causes expansion and contraction, creation and dissolution, and transformation like the water into ice and water vapor. Mind, too, expands and contacts like space and Manas is akin to Akasha.  Thus, everything is traced to to Brahmn from which everything else manifest!  

  'Akshara Brahma' is the basic principle of creation! Here, the first letter or syllable 'A' is Brahmn. The collapse (kshara) of Brahmn 'A' is the cause of creation. From Silence comes the vibration, tremor, waves, sounds and all that is Akshara (Alphabets) which create the phenomenal objective world.. Creation lies in the Gap. Sound lies in the depth of silence! Thus, knowledge of the Alphabets and their inherent esoteric aspects are the basis of creation, sustenance, and dissolution, as also merger (vilaya). There are many secrets involved here and definitely we do not know them! Every sound of the alphabet is as powerful as an atomic bomb! It is this inherent power of the Sound of the syllables, alphabets. It is the same sound that may protect the people as a mantra, when used judiciously! The word 'mantra' means protective power- trayate iti mantra. The first syllable 'A' or akshara is the most powerful one and construction of words is not possible without this syllable. For example, when the vowel 'a' is added to 'k' (the consonant), 'ka' is formed. The syllable 'Ka' is a powerful force creating the fundamental particle (kana) of the material world, including the biological, jiva. Now, 'am' and 'ham' added to 'k' becomes 'kam' and 'kham', respectively.  kam or kham brahmaa is the Vedic doctrine.

 Every syllable, akshara is as good as a mantra! These are the fundamental creative forces as the bijakshara mantra. These are 32,000 on each side of the body, our nerves and neurons, nadi and chakras! Sound is created as we breathe in and breathe out: These sounds function as creative, sustaining and/ or destructive forces. The mahamantra are: ha sa, ka, la, hrIM, sa ha ka la hrIM and sa ka la hRim. SRIM is the most powerful bijakshara mantra. Here 'sa' or 'Sha' stand for. Shrree lakshmi, the Creatrix. 'Im' is the creative power or manifest form of Brahman. So, 'ShrIM' is a complete mantra. hRIm consisting of 'h', 'R' and 'Im' is Hara, Hari, and Virinchi/Brahma, k L IM is a very powerful bija mantra that contains earth, water and Creative force of Brahma and thereby cretae all the living beings!.  

 Briefly, we quote from 'Srividya' and 'Lakshmi Tantra', the Vaishnava Agama shastra grantha some important alphabets, syllables, akshara and their power. First, the svara, the vowels, are very powerful syllables with potent creative power. Second, the vyanjana, consonants are so powerful that create all the phenomenal objective world! Thus, the syllables are the creative force that operate behind the objective world. These are not easily available to common people unless efforts are made to acquire this specialized knowledge from the learned teachers. Even study of the scriptures will not help us in this regard since these are secrets to be learnt from the enlightened souls only. In fact this is a forbidden, rather, restricted field like the restricted area of defense land. Actually, it is a forbidden state since these mantra can create a hell of a problem for some bad elements  in society and protect the pious ones.  

 These syllables begin with A U M (Om). The vowels- a e i o u in English or a, aa, i, I, Ru, ROO,  LRu, LRU, Rk, vu, voo, O,  au, am, aha, Even a dot (.) or two ( : ) is important here. As regards the Consonants, every syllable from Ka-varga to pa-varga are creative enough to create the universe! The consonants 'ya', 'ra',  'la', 'va' and 'Sha', 'sha', 'sa' and 'ha' are powerful enough to sustain the jiva. These five basic elements are created by the bija mantra- space (ham), air (yam), fire (ram), water (lam) and earth (vam). These are also chakras (the wheels of power). The syllables 'ha' and 'sa' are the sounds of our vital breath! 'Sa' is the sound of inhaling, the sustaining force; and 'ha' is the sound of out-going, exhaling breath. It is the end of the jiva if the out-going air does not return! Resuscitation is tried to sustain or save the jiva. 'Sa' is the creative power and the laya shakti is 'ha'. Sa ha eva Shivah ! the syllables of pa-varga- pa, pha, ba, bha, and ma are so powerful that all the forces of creation, sustenance, dissolution, appearances and disappearances, and grace (anugraha) of the supreme Lord are inhered  here.

The 'Power of the Words"

 Little do we know about the 'power' vested in thoughts, sounds, syllables, letters (akshara) and words.that go to make the word (pada) and we are prone to use abusive words often. This level of understanding is hard to come for we are too much in the worldly mundane existence and strive for name, fame, wealth, and desire for perishable things. Once we realize this, may be, we stop unnecessary indulgences and strive for more durable happiness. Lakshmi Tantra gives a detailed account of 'origin of letters' and the inherent power of the alphabets. The Bhagavad-Gita also speaks of this- Omityekaksharam brahma that speaks volumes and volumes! 

Is Renunciation Essential for Happiness?

 Renunciation in the sense of repudiation or self-denial is definitely not essential for happiness. Sanyas is not the solution for the problems of samsara. Since human beings are endowed with buddhi, the power of discretion can be used to develop a harmonious relation with prakruti and live happily, joyfully. It is the ego that plays the spoilsport and kills the joy! The tormented jiva suffers because of this ignorance; it is the ignorance of  the true nature, svabhava, of the jiva forgetting that 'the Atman is always happy and joyful and needs no external support for its happiness' that causes the mortals to seek external, worldly indulgences, relations, objects of desire, and later feel disappointed and feel unhappy. 

 The Bhagavad-Gita is the ultimate guide and Bhagavan Shree Krishna only is speaking here! He, the Lord is kind, benevolent and compassionate. He, the Lord, knows the predicament of the jiva.  As 'antaryamin' seated within, as the 'Self' of all, He knows everything. Thus, there is no doubt as to what He says, but it is definitely not easy to understand. One must know the different contexts in which He speaks. He first speaks of 'Knowledge' as 'Sankhya' and narrates the process of creation in the 26 Principles. He goes on to explain the origin of the universe, the elements and their qualities, the nature of the jiva, its predicaments and offers solution. He advocates the paths of bhakti, jnyana, dhyana, vairagya, sanyasa, etc as means of salvation, emancipation. Finally, He goes to the extent of showing mercy to all those who surrender to Him!

However, it is very interesting to note that the surest means of happiness is 'equanimity' and, that is hard to come by. Bhagavan says, "O Arjuna, that yogi is co,nsidered the best who judges what is happiness and sorrow in all beings by the same standard as he would apply to himself.... (however) .. it is hard to acquire Arjuna." (Ch. VI  3). , Non-attachment with regard to objects of the senses, and also absence of egoism; seeing the evil in birth, death, old age, diseases and miseries; Non-attachment and absense of fondness with regard to sons, wives, homes, etc. and constant equanimity of the mind with regard to the attainment of the desirable and the undesirable." (Chapter XIII verses 8-11).

  Attainment of this state of equanimity by way of yogabhyasa and jnyan (discretion) is the key to happiness of the jiva. Acharya upasana (surrender and service at the feet of the Guru is essential in this regard, followed by practice of compassion and kindness to all other forms of life is advocated here. Nothing is possible as long as the power of ego overpowers the jiva and prevents it from surrendering to the will of the higher self (paramatman).

Can I Become God?

 In yoga vashishtha, Sage Vashishtha tells Sri Ramachandra, "The spontaneously  arising idea- "This person who is endowed with the aggregate of body, sense, etc. am I"- is the dirt-covered Self (jiva). The idea that I am the embodied Self (jiva) becomes extinguished like a lamp without oil when one firmly realizes that the visible universe is no other than Brahman, who as Consciousness is as pure as the sky. (Ch. IX. Realization of the Atma), verses 1-2)..

 This Realization of the Atman is taught by the great Sages in Upanishads. For example, 'Thou art That', Shvetaketu, is of the Chandogya, Kaushitaki, and Brihadaranyaka Upanishads. This is often wrongly attributed to Shankaracharya, the author of the Commentaries on Ten Principle Upanishads. In fact, there are so many Shankaras right from the days of dvapara yuga of Shree Krishna! They are: Avatara purusha Shankara of the  3500.B.C.  and then of the 1st Cent. Abhinava Shankara, and then the Adi Shankara and the Kelady Shankara, etc. (See S N Dasgupta: A History of Indian Philosophy, MLBD). The story of Shankara singing the Song of Beauty (Sounarya lahari) is very interesting. Here Shankara wrote the song and went to Kailasa to show it to Shiva and Parvati. Shiva was surprised at the beautiful description of Parvati in the script. He presented Shankara a copy of the huge volume that was lying next to him as a gift. But, Nandi who was the Gate Keeper did not want to allow him to take it out and snatched it! Thus only a few pages remained with him. We have a beautiful version of creation and sustenance in the first 41 verses of Soundarya Lahari and the rest 60 verses are of description of the Beauty. Thus,  the first .avatara purusha (Person Incarnate) Shankara is different from the 7th cent. one.. 

 We do not know exactly who the Shankara as the author of the Commentaries on Upanishads and have seen people ridicule when "tat tvam asi", "aham brahmasmi" and "Atma eva brahmaa", and other Vedic doctrines are attributed to Shankaracharya. We forget the fact that these are the original Vedic doctrines. The Lod states here in the Veda and in the Bhagavad-Gita unmistakably, explicitly clearly, that "I Am the Self of All". Hence the question is simple: "Can I become God?" The answer is: Where is the question of becoming God when the "Self is All"? It is this lack of understanding that makes one think I am different and God is different. This duality is the cause of all our problems. When samyak prajnya dawns, when one realizes the fact that "He only Exists in all" and all living beings are the manifests forms of His Desire, Will, the ignorance disappears! Now, we are prone to think so and so is a divine soul and defy them. We adore great sages, worship them, present their life and works on silver screen. We call them 'daivansha sambhoota'. But the Vedic doctrines clearly state all these creations are His own Self.

 Now, this duality caused by ignorance of the reality can be easily removed by a simple technique, tantra. This technique is 'Knowledge of the Self", Atma jnyan. Sage Ramana used to say, 'Discover who you are?" Ask yourself "naan yaar?" The moment you discover that 'there is someone else who breathes when you are in deep sleep" and not even aware of your existence. First, one must discover how the single spermatozoa, the impregnated sperm in the mother's cell, multiplied and created multiple sells and tissues, organs, and body. It is the soul that created the body and hence the body is the handicraft of the soul. When one realizes the fact that the mind, the buddhi, and ahankara surrounded it and created the mess, and discards these, would realize the Self. This self discovery is important.

 One can thus realize the true nature of the Self, not just become God! This possible by mere discard of all the adjuncts like the awareness (consciousness) of the physical body, fickle mind, perverted intelligence, and the foolish ego, along with the acquired qualities- ari shadvarga and the trigunatmika svabhava, This process of discard of the sheathes that envelope the soul, purification process, will enable the jiva to realize its pure and pristine existence!

 Hence, is it not wise to revert to the pure state by an inward journey? Stop all indulgences in the worldly existence, withdraw the senses and mind from material world, Start looking inward, begin working within taking recourse to contemplation, meditation. It is essential to discard all the acquired aspects, become pure- kayena, vachena, manasena, indriyana buddhyatmika svabhava parishuddha and shine in the glory of the Lord?  

Self Surrender and 'Anukulya''

 Here, in Lakshmi Tantra, an ancient  Vaishnava Agama Shakta Grantha, the tormented soul is assured of emancipation, liberation, by a simple method. When Shakra (Indra) asks Devi Lakshmi about the means of salvation for the tormented soul, the jiva struggling in the vast ocean of samsara, like a passenger trapped in a leaky boat on a stormy day (see Gita: vayurnaavamivambhasi...), Devi reveals the secret method of 'Self-surrender' as the solution. However, it is not that easy, as can be seen from the following dialogue (quoted from the Text in an abridged form). In tell her the means of redemption of the tormented jiva. In fact, it is not what Devi Lakshmi is revealing the secret on Her own! "Devi says: "Once on beholding the tormented living beings, I pleaded with the God of gods: Adorable one, lord, God of the gods, master of the world, and my beloved O Achyuta, O Govinda, Supreme Pundarikaksha, the guide for crossing the treacherous and shoreless ocean of samsara, thou who art responsible for the four states of existence.. .. manifest and the unmanifest, the knower and time Vasudeva, lord of the universe, Samkarshana, Pradyumna, O exquisitely beautiful, Lord Narayana, these living beings are all drowned in the ocean of suffering. O Lord, by what device thinkest thou they can be saved?(Verses  40-47)

 Thus addressed, the God of gods answered with a smile: O Lotus-seated, lotus-born lotus-goddess, i have devised methods whereby these souls may be liberated, such as, performing the rites and  following the precepts of Samkhya and yoga according to sacred texts. (Verse 48-49)

Again, Devi requests thus: "O merciful Janardana, disclose to me  who prostrate myself before thee the method that thou, in my compassion, has devised to rescue living beings."(Verse 54)

  Shakra. I salute thee, O Great Goddess, what is this 'anukulya'?(verse 65)

Devi replies: 'Anukulya' entails being benevolently disposed towards all beings on the conviction that "I exist in all beings" One should always be favorably disposed towards all beings, just as one is towards me, likewise all forms of hostility towards living beings should be dropped". (verse 66-67).

Vedic Verses

  “Know the embodied soul to be a part of the hundredth part of the point of a hair divided a hundred times; and yet it is infinite. It is not female, it is not male, nor is it neuter. whatever body it takes, with that it becomes united. By means of desires, contact, attachment and delusion, the embodied soul assumes, successively, diverse forms in various places, according to its deeds, just as the body grows when food and drink are poured into it.” [Yajurveda, Shvet. Upa., Part I, Ch. V, 9-11]. “The embodied soul, by means of good and evil deeds committed by itself, assumes many forms, coarse and fine. By virtue of its actions and also of such characteristics of the mind as knowledge and desire, it assumes another body for the enjoyment of suitable objects. He who knows the Lord, who is without beginning or end, who stands in the midst of the chaos of the world, who is the Creator of all things and is endowed with many forms-he who knows the radiant Deity, the sole Pervader of the universe, is released from all his fetters.” [Yajurveda, Shvet. Upa., Part I, Chapter V, 12-13].

 

 

'Liberation' in Lakshmi Tantra

 In Lakshmi Tantra, we find a very different approach to the problems of the jiva. The causes of bondage and means of emancipation, liberation, mukti or moksha are beautifully explained. It is also stated  why and for whom this mukti and moksha? The jiva suffers due to limitations, niyati, imposed by Space  Knowledge, and power to act. It is the inherent quality of the jiva due to Shakti being limited or constrained. However, these limitation s can be overcome by karma, sankhya, yoga and sharanagati as stated in the Gita.  It is stated that no jiva can eep quiet and invariably forced by habit to take to some avocation or the other and thereby accrue its fruits (karma hala0. However, this prarabhda, sanchita or even agami karma can be avoided by performing action without desire, nishkama karma, and nirapekshata. It is also stated that right knowledge will help the jiva in this. The right knowledge is the understanding of the true nature of things as different from things as they appear. Appearances are deceptive, illusory. The desire for experience ceases once the true nature of things is realized. Also, when the jiva realizesthe fact that the worldly sensuous existence is exhausting, never-ending and the desires of the senses are insatiable, it drops the desire and discards the temptations. It is also stated here that once the jiva comes to know the categories ,of the process and system of evolution, of the nature of God, the supreme and essential consciousness, Meditation, especially samadhi and samyama, will liberate the embedded soul once for all by breaking the chain of rebirth! 

  It is essential that the jiva should first seek liberation. It is possible only when the jiva is tired of taking repeated births to fulfill its unfinished jobs and unfulfilled desires and takes to self-introspection. This Atmavalokana, look inward and discover its true nature and say, enough is enough! This self awareness, knowledge of the Self (Atmajnyan) is the only way to liberation of the embedded soul!

  Finally, all the problems of the jiva can be easily solved by just surrendering to the 'Will of the Higher Self (paramatman).This surrender is 'sharanagati tattva' This is very simple like driving our own car and get into trouble on the way, seek help or solve the problem ourselves. If we take a Taxi, it is the responsibility of the Taxi owner to provide alternate vehicle immediately!. Hence, have absolute faith, complete trust and absolute faith in the Lord and be happy and joyful. See how Arjuna sits and Lord Shree Krishna drives the chariot! yoginaam brahma bhavati sarathi. tasmad yogirbhvaarjuna!

"Lakshmi Speaks to Shakra "

 We have seen how Bhagavan Sri Krishna talks to Arjuna in the Bhagavad-Gita. We also have the Varaha Deva and Agastya Muni dialogue. And, now, here we have the dialogue of Lakshmi and Shakra (Indra). Thanks to Professor Sanjukta Gupta, Ed. 'Lakshmi Tantra', we have the translation of some Samskruta Text with Notes of Pancharatra Agama Shastra with special reference to 'Mantra Shastra' (Vaishnava Shakta) in 'Lakshmi Tantra', pub.: MLBD 2000 (First published Netherlands1972). Here, Devi Lakshmi presents Herself as 'Samrajni, the Sovereign Authority, albeit, exercising the Powers of Lord Sri Hari Narayana. She answers all the questions of Shakra (Indra).with regard to Creation, sustenance, dissolution, and merger in its entirety! There is no secret left about the 'true nature of our existence' after reading this, 

  Here, we bring out only the Introductory aspects of the 'Jiva' and the means of its 'Salvation'. It is explicitly stated that that "Lakshmi Tantra concerns itself with the individual adept, who desires to be released from the miseries of worldly existence".  First, let us know who this Jiva is and why the worldly existence is one of miseries and the jiva seeks liberation, and then know what the means of its salvation are.

 'Jiva' is defined here as the 'animate being' and it is "the 'self-imposed limited state of the absolute consciousness which is God's essence" The limitations start with the five sheaths, kosha that envelope the jiva. In fact, the 'jiva' is also 'Shakti' that creates the cosmos and does all the activities of the latter such as creation, sustenance, like a mirror reflects the mountain! Cognition of objects of the jiva is its creative function. Attachment to material objects is its function of sustenance and satiation by these objects is its destructive function.. The desire for material objects is its function of delusion, and its detachment from  that desire is  is its function of divine grace 

  There are three types of jivas. The first one is those who are fettred to worldly existence. Second type is the  one that is liberated from that bondage. The third category is that which is always free!. Jiva's liberation always depends on Shakti's compassion which persuades her to bestow her divine grace on the initiate (shaktipata). Liberation or mukti of the jiva has a much deeper meaning than what we normally think of. This will be considered in greater details in the next blog.

(To be contd.)

 

The Thin 'Veil'

 This thin 'veil' is the problem. It is the 'veil of 'ignorance', avidya. This 'avidya' is not the absence of 'vidya', Knowledge, but is the one covered by attachment (moha), ego (ahamkara), greed, and a host of other guna. qualities, like anger, jealous, etc. This 'Avidya' is the curtain, veil, that prevents a clear vision of reality. It is the veil of our clouded mind! The curtain of 'illusion', maya. is such a transparent one that not even a trace of its presence can be imagined by the foolish mind. Ego envelopes it and projects itself, its ignorance, on the reality. Now, the problem is of how one can discard, tear off, this veil?

 The veil of ignorance, illusion, maya, falls off when 'Knowledge' (jnyan) dawns! This is beautifully explained in the Upanishad by the doctrine of 'Serpent and the Rope'. The Rope appears like a Serpent in darkness and creates fear in our mind. The fear for the serpent is one thing, as if, an inherent quality of the mind? However, the fear is gone the moment light falls on the rope and the reality is known. This reality is the quality associated with Light, Knowledge, Jnyan. However, strange enough, the ignorance, darkness, the rope mistaken for the serpent, is also a sort of jnyan, but covered by fear? Thus, the entire materialistic world of serpent and the rope is presented to us by Nature, prakruti! We, as the humans, although endowed with the gift of a powerful Mind along with Intelligence, enabling us to think, discern, or use discretion, are still delluded!

 Now, the embodied and tormented jiva, struggling to extricate itself from the illusory worldly existence seeks some guidance. Unfortunately, there is no such guide available here. We foolishly search for a true guide in this mortal world of greed, hunger, and thirst? How can a co-passenger in a leaky boat struck in a stormy sea help others? Only a helicopter should locate this leaky boat? The real guide is Agni deva. the God of Fire, the 'fire of 'Knowledge'. Only Light can take us out of darkness. Thus, we pray: asato ma sadgamaya,  tamaso ma jyotirgamaya, mrutyormaam amrutam gamaya! Here, Brahma, Vishnu, Maheshvara, and sakshat parabrahma only should come as our guide. We are so lucky that Bhagavan Shree Krishna comes to help us as 'yogacharya', teacher of 'brahma vidya', and liberate us. But, do we go to him? Do we seek His guidance? will our ego permit that? He, the Lord offers protection, liberation, and states this in clear unmistakable terms. He says, maam upetya kounteya... sarva paapebhyo mokshayishyami, mas shuca ! He even says that there will be no rebirth in this world of repeated births and deaths- punarjanma na vidyate! He, the Lord always looks at us, but we don't even care to look at Him. It seems that we do not have sufficient faith, belief, trust in Him. So, He says, "samashayatma vinashyati"!

  There is no alternate to the Gitopasane for the tormented jiva to get out of the mesmerizing maya. First, we should realize the fact that all that we seek as worldly name and fame, wealth, and enjoyment are nothing but foolishness, ignorance, lack of true nature of the world that is controlled by 'niyati; Time, Space, Causality (the cause and effect). Our foolish Mind sending the senses on errand due to the foolish ego is responsible for this! 

 Take to the Bhagavad-Gita and defeat these deluding forces? nahin jnyanena sadrusham ! Strictly follow is advise- manmana madhbhava madhyaji namskuru! Remember what He says, Aham eva Atmaa!

Vedic Verses

     This 'Atman' is not attained by instruction or by intelligence or by learning. By him whom he chooses is the atman attained. To him the atman reveals his own being. The one who has not turned away from wickedness, who has no peace, who is not concentrated, whose mind is restless-he cannot realize the atman, who is known by wisdom. –[Krishna Yajur Veda, Katha Upanishad 1.2.24-25. ve, p. 710]. 

  He who dwells in the light, yet is other than the light, whom the light does not know, whose body is the light, who controls the light from within -- He is the atman within you. [Shukla Yajur Veda, Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 3.7.14. VE, P. 708].

With his mind purified, with his consciousness purified, with patience, thinking I am He, and with patience when he has attained the consciousness of I am He, he is established by wisdom in the supreme atman who is to be known in the heart. [Shukla Yajur Veda, Paingala Upanishad 4.9. VE, P. 441].

In the Support the worlds consist; in him Creative Fervor and Order have their ground. You I have known, O Support, face to face, in Indra wholly concentrated.  [Atharva Veda X, 7, 29].

In Indra the worlds consist; in Indra Creative Fervor and Order have their ground. You I have known, O Indra, face to face, in the Support wholly established. [Atharva Veda X, 7, 30].

  There are two ways of contemplation of Brahman: in sound and in silence. By sound we go to silence. The sound of Brahman is Aum. With Aum we go to the End, the silence of Brahman. The End is immortality, union and peace. Even as a spider reaches the liberty of space by means of its own thread, the man of contemplation by means of Aum reaches freedom. The sound of Brahman is Aum. At the end of Aum is silence. It is a silence of joy. It is the end of the journey, where fear and sorrow are no more: steady, motionless, never-falling, everlasting, immortal. It is called the omnipresent Vishnu. In order to reach the Highest, consider, in adoration, the sound and the silence of Brahman. For it has been said: God is sound and silence. His name is Aum. Attain, therefore, contemplation in silence on Him. [Krishna Yajur Veda, Maitra Upanishad 6.22-23. upm, 102].

 Than whom there is naught else higher, than whom there is naught smaller, naught greater, the One stands like a tree established in heaven. By Him, the Person, is this whole universe filled. [Krishna Yajur Veda, Shvetashvatara Upanishad 3.9. upr, 727].

 Even as wa.er becomes one with water, fire with fire, and air with air, so the mind becomes one with the Infinite Mind and thus attains final freedom.[Krishna Yajur Veda, Maitra Upanishad 6.34.11. tu, 103].

 All the sacred books, all holy sacrifice and ritual and prayers, all the words of the Vedas, and the whole past and present and future, come from the Spirit. With maya, His power of wonder, He made all things, and by maya the human soul is bound. Know, therefore, that nature is maya, but that God is the ruler of maya, and that all beings in our universe are parts of His infinite splendor. [Krishna Yajur Veda, Svetasvatara Upanishad 4.9-10. upm, 92].

 The seer sees not death, nor sickness, nor any distress. The seer sees only the All, obtains the All entirely. For the sake of experiencing the true and the false, the great Self has a dual nature. Yea, the great Self has a dual nature. Yea, the great Self has a dual nature! [Krishna Yajur Veda, Maitra Upanishad 7.11.6 & 8. uph, 458].

 The Moon was born from his mind; the Sun came into being from his eye; from his mouth came Indra and Agni, while from his breath the Wind was born. From his navel issued the Air; from his head unfurled the Sky, the Earth from his feet, from his ear the four directions. Thus have the worlds been organized. Seven were the sticks of the enclosure, thrice seven the fuel sticks were made, when the Gods, performing the sacrifice, bound the Man as the victim. [Rig Veda X, 90, 13-15].

 The soul is born and unfolds in a body, with dreams and desires and the food of life. And then it is reborn in new bodies, in accordance with its former works. The quality of the soul determines its future body; earthy or airy, heavy or light. [Krishna Yajur Veda, Shvetashvatara Upanishad, 5.11-12. upm, p. 94].

 Mind is indeed the source of bondage and also the source of liberation. To be bound to things of this world-this is bondage. To be free from them-this is liberation. [Krishna Yajur Veda, Maitra Upanishad 6.34. upm, p. 104].

 “God is, in truth, the whole universe: what was, what is and what beyond shall ever be. He is the God of life immortal and of all life that lives by food. His hands and feet are everywhere. He has heads and mouths everywhere. He sees all, He hears all. He is in all, and He Is.” [Krishna Yajur Veda, Shvet Upanishad 3.15-16. upm, 90].

  “He is the God of forms infinite in whose glory all things are--smaller than the smallest atom, and yet the Creator of all, ever living in the mystery of His creation. In the vision of this God of love there is everlasting peace. He is the Lord of all who, hidden in the heart of things, watches over the world of time. The Gods and seers of Brahman are one with Him, and when a man knows Him, he cuts the bonds of death.” [Krishna Yajur Veda, Shvetashvatara Upanishad 4.14-15. upm, 91-92].

 “He who is source and origin of the Gods, the Lord of all, Rudra, the Mighty Sage who produced in ancient days the Golden Germ--may He endow us with purity of mind!” [Krishna Yajur Veda, Svetasvatara Upanishad 3.4. ve, 156].

  “Truth obtains victory, not untruth. Truth is the way that leads to the regions of light. Sages travel therein free from desires and reach the supreme abode of Truth. He is immeasurable in His light and beyond all thought, and yet He shines smaller than the smallest. Far, far away is He, and yet He is very near, resting in the inmost chamber of the heart. He cannot be seen by the eye, and words cannot reveal Him. He cannot be reached by the senses, or by austerity or sacred actions. By the grace of wisdom and purity of mind, He can be seen, indivisible, in the silence of contemplation. This invisible atman can be seen by the mind wherein the five senses are resting. All mind is woven with the senses; but a pure mind shines the light of the Self. Whatever regions the pure in heart may see in his mind, whatever desires he may have in his heart, he attains those regions and wins his desires. Let one who wishes for success reverence the seers of the Spirit.” [Atharva Veda, Mundaka Upanishad 3.1.6-10. upm, 80].

 Having reached the last order of life, one should sit in a solitary place in a relaxed posture, with pure heart, with head, neck and body straight, controlling all the sense organs, having bowed with devotion to the master. [Atharva Veda, Kaivalya Upanishad 5. ve, 442].

 

Tantra Shastra

  We have posted almost 940 blogs visited by nearly 50,000. These blogs contain almost everything under the Sun. We have covered subjects like origin of the universe, the stars, the planets and their satellites, life on earth- the past, present and future. Almost all the available sources of some published and some unpublished scriptures have been referred to here. Still, the mystery of life remains to be solved. Even Gautama who went in search of answers to questions bothering us like human sufferings, sickness, old age and death and finally became 'the Buddha'  left us  wondering, back to square one. However, let's try this mysterious world of mantra, tantra and yantra. 

  The problems one faces in life are umpteen. These are considered tapa-traya, three types- 1. created by Nature (prakruti), 2. person's own creation due to commissions and omissions, and 3. the problems created by neighbors or others. Nature create such problems that may even wash out the entire civilization. These include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods and famines, epidemics, etc. Sustained efforts are needed to protect the humanity from these.  The problems that are self-created  are many and these include food habits, life-style, quarrelsome attitudes and behavior, etc. The third category is very important. This includes the tantra adopted by some bad people to destroy peace and prosperity of others. These people are jealous, selfish and harm others. They are misguided people. They go to tantriks and get instruments of tantra such as charts, tables of numbers, mantra or talisman gadgets to harm others, may be to protect themselves also! There is no end to these. The rationalists are strong-minded and do not care for these. So also the sattvik people who trust in God do not attach any importance to these. It is the weak-minded and tamasik ones that are prone to these.

 There are the Vedic tradition and the Non-Vedic practices that deal with human problems and solutions. The Atharva Veda has dealt with these in great detail. There are the mantra, tantra and yantra like our science- theory and practical, and technology in Colleges. The practitioners of these are specialist like the Yajniks or yajurvedis who work with yajnya, yaga, havan and homa. They use Rks and samans, too. Now, the problems that affect and afflict human communities are many and varied. They start with the birth of a child and it is endless and, even death is not the end here! Not only the dead but the living ones, known or the unknown affect the life of individuals, families and even society! It is here that the tantra shastra comes into question.

 The practitioners of tantra are widely known partly as 'tantriks'. There are people who practice 'black magic' all over the world. some deal with the tantra that ward of mental illness, and some deal with the afflicted weak minds that are fearful of everything they see or hear. These include women of certain age group (adolescents) and children. The Vedic tradition accepts some and reject many that are irrational (though not unscientific!). Psycho-analysis, hypnotism and other methods (tantra) are approved. performing puja to ward off evil is accepted. But, animal sacrifice, torturing children are not accepted and even prohibited. So, one has to be careful as to what remedies are adopted to cure the problems. However, one should remember, these techniques(tantra) are not the only cure or preventive ones.

'vamachara' (Occult Science)

 There are sixty-four techniques of occult science (avaidika or  tantra) that are practiced since ages. However, these are not approved by the Vedic people (vaidika). There are remedies, too, as stated in Atharva Veda. These cults are practiced by the nomads, tribal, and other ill-informed people. These include offering obeisance to Kali Maa, Durga Devi, and other Goddesses with a prayer to ward of difficulties, or even get what they wish or desire without harming others. The Vedic doctrines are clear and they advocate worship of Agni deva (yajnya/yaga) havan, homa, etc. There dhanvantari homa for good health and Gana homa to ward of difficulties, and many others. There is no harm when one desires or wish for something good for themselves. But it is very bad when one thinks ill of others, jealous of others' progress and try to harm through these occult practices. There are twelve Deities, and twelve vaidiki devatas specified in the Gayatri mantra (savitru) who bless anything one wish or desires.Each deity has a bijakshara (lika ta, sa, vi, tru, va, re, Nyam), a mantra, a Mandala or Chakra, and  the phala shruti. These vaidiki and tantriki mantra devata are like the Officiating Deities who are in-charge of theoretical and practical aspects. 

  Now, it is human nature to aspire for good and pray for welfare and progress of self and the kith and kin. But to wish ill of others is bad. There people who perform certain rituals and get occult powers. There is a Rule that these powers should not be used to harm others. These powers are for human welfare. But, the crooked people use these occult powers to harm others. However, it is necessary to know whether one should believe in these and contribute to these occult powers? The most important thing to know here is the three category of people- 1.Deva Gana, 2. Rakshasa Gana, and 3. Manava Gana. The Deva Gana are the group of people who are born with sattvika guna and believe in God and will not fear the crooked. The rakshasa gana are those who are rajasika and believe in all these  occult practices. It must be remembered that the weak minded are easily afflicted by these. The third category are tamasika, not much interested in all these.   

 One very important thing to remember here is that wicked people are always there in this world. Nobody can stop them from doing anything that harm others. Kerala is well known for the people who are specialized in Tantric ways. So, the best remedy is to believe in the divine powers and get strength of mind from constant adoration and worship of God. The Bhagavad-Gita give the solution. Trust in Him. He will take care. Blessed Lord assures all-round protection who go to Him for protection. No trust, no life. So, it is always better to take to the 'Right Path', not the 'Leftist', vamachara. Be strong-minded. Don't entertain fear. Also, never think ill of others. Those who think ill of others will perish for God sees the truth!

 What to do when one is afflicted by the wicked deeds like black magic by some bad people? Trust in divine powers like mantra japa, havan, homa, etc. than running to astrologers or mantrics and waste money. There are many ways of overcoming the effects of black magic and one such is the Vedic method. Prayer is the best! 

'Becoming' and 'Being' a 'Yogi'

 Is it necessary to know about the 'Ashtanga Yoga Sutras" to become a yogi? Are there real yogis or just fake ones (dhongi) amidst us? Are these yogis, sadhu santas, sanyasis are by birth or created by chance, luck, fate or destiny? Should the yogi stay aloof, far away in forests or may stay with society and serve them? All these and umpteen other questions arise when it comes to the saffron-clad people moving around us! It is difficult to answer these questions for the situation differs from case to case.

 First, a person must be fed up and averse to worldly sensuous life. Second, he must be really satisfied with his existence and expects nothing more! The Gita lays down that it is only after right knowledge that wisdom dawns, and this leads to renunciation. Then such renunciates sacrifice, give away everything in gifts (danam), and take to meditation (dhyanam) and go for penance (tapas). It is only such persons who real become the yogis- knowledgeable, wise, renunciate and sacrificing. They are qualified to serve selflessly and deserve all honor, respect from society.

  The fact that a yogi is amidst us make us wonder whether most of them deserve to be called renunciates! May be or may not be, we do not know. However, some are born saints like Shankaracharya. Great scholars, renunciate to the core! We don't have any one beside him these days? It is sheer carry-over of the fruits of previous actions (karmaphala), purva punya, that a person is born saint like him and he died very young. The life history of Sri Shankaracharya (Dharegilida teja) is quite revealing!

   A yogi is also shaped up by a 'Guru', a mentor. It is, as if, God shows some mentor to a tormented soul. There are some great yogis sitting in meditation in a cave or a forest or, on the hill without any aspirations for worldly pleasures. Here again, we cannot say anything! There are many examples and worth emulating. Great Swamijis belong to this group of renunciates. We are bound to feel the mystic powers in their presence. These are blessed souls.

 Now, is it necessary to be or become a yogi? Some one remarked that the Hindu philosophy is addictive and makes one a renunciate very early in life. It is not the story of a fox saying "Grapes are sour". It is really a great satisfaction after enjoying the fruits that one says, 'enough', It is a sense of satisfaction, contentment, fulfillment that leads a person to logical conclusion that life is worth living, but 'enough is enough' and finds greater satisfaction in renunciation than in possession. Thus, a yogi is a satisfied soul, happy, contented and looking for emancipation.  

Can We Speak to God?

 Can we speak to God? This is a very interesting question. If one could speak to a cat or a dog, cattle or even birds, why not to God? This question is answered by many great sages. Not only did Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa used to speak to Devi Kali Ma, but it is said that he was possessed of Her spirit. May be there are many who go to seclusion and visualize, speak to Deities of their choice. Little do we understand about all these! Here is one such occasion when I experienced this.

 It was some time in 1994-95 at Haveri where I was posted as Principal of a College. The Voting process of General Election was over and the Ballot Boxes were kept in the College and the date of counting was nearing. There was tight security and an armed Guard was posted who took position on the terrace of the College building. I had a small sports room converted to residence and stayed there. May be, around 3 P.M, some body tried to break into my residence. My wife and daughter were inside. When a person covering a black mask  tried to forcibly enter the house my wife pushed him out with all her might and closed the door. Since I was in the college office, she tried to contact me, but telephone wire was cut off. Some students who were nearby heard the voice and informed me. Soon a police complaint was lodged and the Addl. Police Suptd, came from Dharwad, the district HQ. He went round the premises and enquired about the incident. He was so overwhelmed and appreciated the bravery of my wife and said she should be recommended for a bravery award  and she saved his job. He would have been sacked had there been any untoward happening that day. However, the matter did not end here. He suggested that I should not stay there since it was difficult to catch the miscreants if the commit crime and take a vehicle passing on the NH4 nearby. He advised me to shift immediately and I left the place with my family by the evening same day. But, i had to come back for my job soon. It is in this background that i stood in front of Lord Venkateshwara on the Calendar and talked to Him. I just told Him, the Lord, that i was just a small lame chic wandering picking up a grain or two and He the Supreme Commander of the Universe. What is it He wanted from me and why is he tormenting me? He said bluntly, "This is not the place for you, come to Me". I persisted, and said, "please give whatever one wants from me and do not allow anybody to come to me, I shall be with You. This is the turning point in life. Since, then, i have not turned back. He looks after all my responsibilities and I rest peacefully with Him! 

  What happened next is much interesting for I lost my job for no fault of mine since I just asked for a transfer from Haveri and i was asked to hand over charge so that my request would be considered. Foolish enough, i handed over charge and left the place and the transfer or new posting never came up! I had to approach the High Court, file Contempt proceedings and with all the judgments in my favor, I never got my dues! Well what about the promise of Lord Venkateshwara/  He took care of me and all my kith and kin all these days and sure enough will  not let his ardent devotees down. What is required is  unwavering steadfast devotion and 'faith' in Him!

  So talking to God pays. "God knows the truth but waits", is the  dictum. Trust in God and go ahead.    

Can I See God?

 dhyanavasthita tad gatena manasa yogina pashyanti paraah !

 There is an incident narrated in Swami Rama's book 'At the Feet of the Himalayan Masters'. Rama, a lad of  sixteen, or so, insists that his master should show him God. His master asks him to first decide first which God, Ram, Krishna, or someone he wants to see and tell him. Perplexed, Rama goes to the nearby river bank and sits there contemplating for almost three hours! When it was too hot and unbearable in the hot sun, he gets up and straight goes to his masters and falls at his feet. Thereafter, the  question of God never came up! 

 It is also stated that Sri Aurobindo and Si Tilak had the vision of Lord Shree Krishna when they were in jail during the freedom movement. Sri Aurobindo was in Alipore jail for attempt to murder a British Magistrate. He saw Bhagavan Shree Krishna wherever he looked at! So also, Tilak was kept in jail in Mandalay and he requested the jail authorities to get him some books. He had the vision of the Lord when he was writing his monumental work- 'Gita Rahasya'. His book is translated into Kannada by Sri Alur Venkata Rao and there is an account of Atma darshan  (pp230-245), as far as I remember. There are many such accounts of God-Visioning.

 It is sometime in 2006 or so when i had similar experience. I used to get up and sit for meditation around 3.30 a.m. One day, i was almost in trance that the images of Lord Sri Ram and Sita and Vishnu and Lakshmi appeared fully covering the sky! Surprised by the vision, i opened my eyes and looked around. In fact, it was raining outside. it took some time for me to realize that i was in California and not India. This visioning repeated in another form soon, after a few  days. This time, it was almost a dream-like situation. I was seated for lunch along with a number of guests at a function. A person resembling Shiva, sharp angular dark face with his hair tied as in normal calendar photos was looking closely at me. I looked at him and he said, "You chant the mantra "Om Maheshvaraya namah", sixty thousand times! I was perplexed and opened my eyes. Again, i realized that this was a revelation in trance! This was a divine proddence. Next morning, i started chanting the mantra during my morning walk and repeated during the evening walk, as well, and never counted it! This went on for several months. Now, it was indeed a beginning of a number of miracles unfolding! I had the God-visioning again and again and there is no more doubt about it. 

 Now, it suffices here to state that a number of people have had this darshan. Rather, "Parameshwara darshanam eve purushartha sadhanam", says Sage Ramakrishna Paramahansa. Any sustained effort will lead to success, so also, about search for God. This revelation is just an appearance of what is already within us, not anything new from outside. Bhagavan Shree Krishna says, "I am the Self of all"! Aham eva Atmaa ! So, one has to take to deep meditation. Any desire will be fulfilled, so also, this God-visioning! 

  However, when it comes to God-visioning, it is quite rational to think and ask, "Who sees whom? " The person established in a state of trance will have no awareness of physical existence, as such. It is a transcendental state, samadhi. It is clearly stated that, "There is neither a devotee, nor his Deity in the state of asamprajnya samadhi". The Deity, Bhagavan says, "You come ten feet towards Me, I come fifty feet towards you; you come hundred feet, I am already there within you"!  Here, Bhagavan is united (sayujya or samya) with His devotee and the devotee is merged in Him. Only 'devotion' exists in such a state of union of God! 

 Hence, one should be careful with regard to God-visioning! It's all in the Mind. Mind is a powerful instrument that is capable of creating whatever is the strongest desire of the jiva. One cannot make fun of such things. Whether it is God or the Demon/Devil/ghost it is all in the mind!

"Good Guys, Bad Guys"

 All these 'good' or 'bad' started with the mischief of Vishnu in the guise of Mohini distributing the elixir (amrut) that came out during the churning of the ocean (sagara manthan). When all those who were churning the ocean started grabbing the amruta kalasha it was feared that the amrut would spill out and the death knell earth would become the heaven and Vishnu appeared in the form of an attractive damsel, 'mohini'. All attention fell on her and she took the amrut kalasha to distribute. She asked them to sit in a line and would give them the elixir. There were Vrutra, Vela, Indra and all others in sitting in line waiting for the amrut. After first doze (like the vaccine today) they we all told to go away. However some of them felt something strange and asked Vishnu about the efficacy. They were told that the amrut has given them good looks and strength. Not satisfied with this, they wanted more. So  those who came for the second doze got mystic powers. In this second serve, there were the Vrutra and Vela who went told all their friends that Vishnu has cheated them. By the time they all came back, Lord had given the third doze which gave jnyan and discriminative power and disappeared. This angered the friends of Vritra and Vela so much that they started fighting with all those who got three dozes of amrut. This is is the beginning of the endless fight we find between the good guys and bad guys! 

Vedic Verses

 “Let us know that Supreme Being and meditate upon Him, the Supreme General of the great deva army. May He enlighten us and lead us to be one with Him, Lord Skanda.” [Krishna Yajur Veda, Taittiriya Aranyaka 10.6.2-3 (Shanmukha Gayatra). lw, 112].

 “The atman pervades all like butter hidden in milk. He is the source of Self-knowledge and ascetic fervor. This is the Brahman teaching, the highest goal! This is the Brahman teaching, the highest goal! He who with the truth of the atman, unified, perceives the truth of Brahman as with a lamp, who knows God, the unborn, the stable, free from all forms of being, is released from all fetters. The inspired Self is not born nor does He die; He springs from nothing and becomes nothing. Unborn, permanent, unchanging, primordial, He is not destroyed when the body is destroyed.” [Krishna Yajur Veda, Shvetashvatara Upanishad 1.16; 2.15 & 18. ve, 711, 762, 566].

 “There are five subtle elements, tanmatra, and these are called elements. There are also five gross elements, mahabhutas, and these are called elements. The union of these is called the human body. The human soul rules the body; but the immortal spiritual soul is pure like a drop of water on a lotus leaf. The human soul is under the power of the three constituents and conditions of nature, and thus it falls into confusion. Because of this confusion the soul cannot become conscious of the God who dwells within and whose power gives us power to work.” [Krishna Yajur Veda, Maitra Upa. 3.2. upm, 100].

Taking as a bow the great weapon of the Upanishad, one should put upon it an arrow sharpened by meditation. Stretching it with a thought directed to the essence of That, penetrate that Imperishable as the mark, my friend. [Atharva Veda, Mundaka Upanishad 2.2.3. uph, 372].

From all knowledge, yoga practice and meditation, all that relates to the Aum sound is to be meditated on as the only blissful (Siva). Indeed, the Aum sound is Siva. [Atharva Veda, Atharvasikha Upanishad 2. upb, 782].

"The Great Lord is the beginning, the cause which unites the soul with the body; He is above the three kinds of time and is seen to be without parts. After having worshipped that adorable God dwelling in the heart, who is of many forms and is the true source of all things, man attains final Liberation."[Yajur Veda, Shvet. Upa., Part I, Chapter VI, 5].

 "Endowed with gunas, the jiva performs action, seeking its fruit; and again, it reaps the fruit of what it has done. Assuming all forms and led by the three gunas, the jiva, ruler of the pranas, roams about following the three paths, according to its deeds. Of the size of a thumb, but brilliant, like the sun, the jiva possesses both volition and egoism. It is endowed with the qualities of both buddhi and Atman. Therefore, it is seen as another entity, inferior and small as the point of a goad." [Yajurveda, Shvet. Upa., Part I, Ch. V, 7-8].

 "Rosy Dawn advances, adorned with the brightness of many a beam. She pursues her way on her well-equipped chariot, arousing Men to joy. Come, O twin Spirits, at break of day on  your powerful chariots. We offer in sacrifice this honey-sweet draught for your delectation."

 "How is it that, though united and unsupported, he does not fall down ? By what inner power moves he? Who has seen? A firm pillar, he protects heaven's vault. [Rk Veda IV, 14, 3-5].

  “If the sunbird, rising, extracted his foot from the sea, neither today nor tomorrow would exist, neither night, day, nor dawn. The eight--wheeled moves on one rim, to and from, thousand-syllabled. With one half it engendered all creation. Of its other half what sign?” [Atharva Veda XI, 4, 21-22]

  “Foremost Purifier, let your lights shine on us now, inspiring us to skill of mind and hand.” [Rk Veda IX, 36, 3].