Mind & Intelligence – 2

 

Dattatreya Jayanti Week (14th December 2024)

During our in-depth study of the Chidakasha Geeta and Sadguru Sthavan, it became increasingly evident that Bhagavan Nityananda emphasized two essential principles for spiritual evolution: Desirelessness (Vairagya) and the Art of Discrimination (Viveka). These teachings serve as guiding lights to help the mind withdraw from the transient and impermanent, redirecting its focus toward the eternal and unchanging truth.

The relentless Wheel of Time (Kalachakra) spares no one; its movement is inevitable and all-encompassing. Saints across all traditions emphasize the urgency of acting “Here and Now” rather than postponing spiritual endeavours to “Tomorrow.” It is this present moment where transformation takes root and liberation becomes attainable.

To deepen our understanding and accelerate inner transformation, we are anchoring ourselves in Guru Krupa Yog, the path that harnesses the grace of the Guru as the guiding force. Complementing this, we also practise techniques to train the mind, ensuring it remains under the guidance of the Buddhi (higher intellect) through the art of discrimination. These practices allow us to discern between the real and the unreal, fostering clarity and unwavering focus.

In our quest to embody these principles, we are delving into the qualities and discipline that define a Yogi. The journey toward becoming a Yogi or Sadhak involves not only aligning with the eternal principles taught by the Guru but also living by them, thereby transforming every aspect of our being.

This three-pronged approach—Guru Krupa Yog, mind training through Buddhi, and understanding what makes a Yogi—though seemingly distinct, is inherently interconnected. Together, they form a complementary, holistic and wholistic process that makes the path of Guru Krupa Yog accessible, sustainable, and transformative.

Let us proceed further with renewed determination, inspired by the grace of the Guru. May this collective endeavour enrich our Sadhana, making our lives not only beautiful but divine?

While we have already studied Muktabai’s Tati Ugda Dnyaneshwara, here we turn our focus to the Manache Shlok of Shree Samarth Ramdas. We begin by exploring the wisdom encapsulated in verses 4, 5, and 6, seeking to apply their profound teachings in our spiritual practice.

Verse 4

॥ मना वासना दुष्ट कामा न ये रे । मना सर्वथा पापबुद्धी नको रे ॥ मना सर्वथा नीति सोडूं नको हो । मना अंतरीं सार वीचार राहो ॥ ४ ॥

Oh, my Mind! evil desires will yield you no benefit; Oh, my Mind! sinful thoughts wholly abandon; Oh, my Mind! moral character never cast aside; Oh, my Mind! may in your innermost heart abide thoughts of the essence of Existence! ॥ 4 ॥

This verse from Manache Shlok reflects the timeless wisdom of Sant Ramdas, urging the mind to adopt virtues and align itself with the divine. Here’s an interpretation of the verse:.

“Oh, my Mind! Sinful thoughts wholly abandon”

“Oh, my Mind! Sinful thoughts wholly abandon” is a powerful call for mental discipline and purification. The mind, as the source of all actions, directly influences one’s behaviour, emotions, and experiences. Allowing sinful or harmful thoughts to persist can lead to undesirable actions, which eventually result in suffering.

The Impact of Sinful Thoughts

1. Seeds of Suffering: Sinful or negative thoughts often manifest as harmful actions that create turmoil, both internally and externally.
2. Cycle of Karma: These thoughts contribute to negative karma, binding the individual to cycles of pain, guilt, and regret.
3. Disturbance of Inner Peace: The presence of sinful thoughts disturbs the peace of mind, creating restlessness and emotional imbalance.

The Mind as the Source

1. Thoughts Shape Actions: Every action begins as a thought. By allowing impure thoughts, one is more likely to act in harmful ways, which brings misfortune and negative consequences.
2. Steering the Mind: The ability to direct the mind away from negative tendencies is crucial in breaking free from harmful patterns.

Purification of the Mind

1. Discipline and Vigilance: Conscious awareness and mental discipline are required to identify and eliminate sinful thoughts before they take root.
2. Positive Replacement: Instead of allowing harmful thoughts to dominate, one can replace them with uplifting and righteous thoughts, such as love, compassion, and gratitude.
3. Practice of Virtue: Engage in regular practices such as prayer, meditation, and service to cultivate purity of thought and heart.

Steering the Mind Toward Purity

1. Self-Inquiry: Regularly check the nature of one’s thoughts. If negative tendencies arise, gently redirect the mind toward positive and divine ideals.
2. Satsang (Spiritual Company): Surrounding oneself with virtuous individuals and sacred teachings strengthens the mind against sinful inclinations.
3. Devotion and Faith: Trusting in a higher power or the Divine helps transcend lower impulses, keeping the mind focused on spiritual goals.

Benefits of Abandoning Sinful Thoughts

1. Inner Peace: A mind free of harmful thoughts is calm, centered, and peaceful.
2. Right Actions: Pure thoughts naturally lead to righteous actions, which bring joy, fulfillment, and spiritual growth.
3. Spiritual Growth: Purifying the mind accelerates one’s journey toward self-realization and divine connection.

Conclusion

By consciously abandoning sinful thoughts, we prevent them from manifesting as harmful actions, purifying both our inner and outer worlds. Steering the mind toward purity and righteousness leads to personal transformation and spiritual progress, fostering a life of peace, virtue, and divine alignment.

“Oh, my Mind! Moral character never cast aside”
I“Oh, my Mind! Moral character never cast aside” is a powerful exhortation to maintain integrity and uphold moral values at all times. The mind is the architect of one’s actions, and by remaining grounded in moral principles, it creates a life of virtue and righteousness.

The Importance of Moral Character

1. Foundation of Noble Life: Integrity and moral character are the bedrock of a life well-lived. A person who lives by dharma (righteousness) remains steady in their actions, regardless of external circumstances.
2. Trust and Respect: Upholding moral values builds trust and respect in both personal and societal relationships. Integrity attracts admiration and encourages others to live in harmony.
3. Societal Harmony: When individuals maintain strong moral character, they contribute to the well-being and peace of the community, ensuring stability and mutual respect.

Moral Character as Inner Peace

1. Alignment with Dharma: When one’s actions are aligned with dharma, the mind experiences peace and clarity. There is no inner conflict between desire and duty, as everything is approached with righteousness.
2. Prevention of Regret: Living with integrity helps avoid guilt and regret, which arise from dishonest or immoral actions. A clear conscience fosters mental tranquility.
3. Self-Respect: Integrity leads to self-respect and confidence, as one remains true to their values and beliefs, irrespective of external pressures.

The Role of the Mind

1. Mental Discipline: The mind must be disciplined to reject unethical impulses and act by higher principles. This requires constant vigilance and self-awareness.
2. Consistency: True moral character is not situational but consistent across all actions and interactions, whether in public or private.
3. Moral Compass: The mind must be attuned to dharma, continually guiding thoughts, words, and actions by virtuous living.

Practical Steps to Uphold Moral Character

1. Self-Reflection: Regularly reflect on one’s actions and thoughts to ensure they align with moral and ethical standards.
2. Mindfulness: Be mindful of choices, ensuring they are guided by principles such as honesty, kindness, and fairness.
3. Role Models: Look to spiritual or moral role models who exemplify integrity and dharma, learning from their examples.
4. Accountability: Hold oneself accountable for actions, always striving to improve and stay true to one’s moral commitments.

Benefits of Maintaining Moral Character

1. Inner Fulfillment: Living with integrity leads to a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing that one’s actions are in alignment with their values.
2. External Harmony: A person with moral character attracts positive relationships, mutual respect, and a peaceful environment.
3. Spiritual Growth: Upholding dharma accelerates spiritual growth, as one clears the path for divine grace and inner transformation.

Conclusion

By never casting aside moral character, the mind ensures a life of righteousness, inner peace, and societal harmony. Integrity is the foundation that supports both personal happiness and the well-being of the community. With steadfast commitment to dharma, one can navigate life’s challenges with wisdom, dignity, and grace.

“Oh, my Mind! May in your innermost heart abide thoughts of the essence of Existence!”

“Oh, my Mind! May in your innermost heart abide thoughts of the essence of Existence!” is a profound invitation to turn the mind inward and focus on the deepest reality of the Self. This essence refers to the ultimate truth of existence — Sat (Being), Chit (Consciousness), and Ananda (Bliss) — which transcends all transient aspects of the material world.

The Essence of Existence: Sat-Chit-Ananda

1. Sat (Being): This represents pure existence, the unchanging and eternal truth that underlies all phenomena. It is the core reality, beyond time, space, and form.
2. Chit (Consciousness): This is the awareness or consciousness that illuminates all experiences. It is the pure, unbound awareness that is always present, even before thoughts and perceptions arise.
3. Ananda (Bliss): This is the ultimate state of joy and peace, not dependent on external circumstances, but arising naturally from the realization of one’s true nature.

The Highest Purpose of the Mind

1. Turning the Mind Inward: The mind, often distracted by external desires and attachments, is urged to shift its focus inward, toward the essential nature of the Self. This practice leads to self-realization and liberation (Moksha).
2. Meditation on the Self: Focusing on the essence of Existence means meditating on one’s true nature as pure consciousness, untainted by worldly identities and ego.
3. Beyond Material Pleasures: The mind, when engaged in this contemplation, begins to transcend the fleeting pleasures and pains of the material world. These external conditions no longer affect the inner peace derived from realization of the Self.

Path to Liberation

1. Purification of the Mind: As the mind dwells on the essence of Existence, it becomes purified of worldly distractions, attachments, and desires. It becomes one with the eternal truth, leading to liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).
2. Transcending Duality: The mind, when focused on Sat-Chit-Ananda, perceives the oneness of all existence. Dualities like pleasure and pain, success and failure, are seen as temporary phenomena, leaving the individual in a state of equanimity.
3. Realization of the Self: Through sustained contemplation on the essence of Existence, the individual realizes their own identity as that very essence, experiencing oneness with the universe and ultimate freedom.

Practical Steps for Contemplation

1. Daily Meditation: Dedicate time each day to sit in quiet contemplation, focusing on the nature of pure Being, Consciousness, and Bliss. Allow the mind to settle into the realization that you are not the body or the ego, but the eternal consciousness.
2. Self-Inquiry: Practice “Who am I?” inquiry, which helps direct the mind to the essence of one’s true nature, beyond thoughts, emotions, and sensations.
3. Detachment from the Ego: As you meditate, allow the identification with the ego and material world to diminish. Recognize that these are temporary and impermanent, while your true essence is eternal.
4. Presence and Awareness: Cultivate presence in every moment, seeing the essence of Existence in all things. Recognize the underlying consciousness that connects all beings.

Benefits of Contemplating the Essence of Existence

1. Inner Peace and Bliss: As the mind focuses on the eternal truths, it naturally experiences a profound sense of peace and joy that is not dependent on external circumstances.
2. Liberation (Moksha): Continued contemplation of the essence leads to liberation from the cycles of samsara and union with the Divine.
3. Transcendence of Suffering: By realizing the impermanence of worldly experiences and identifying with the eternal essence, the mind transcends suffering and attains blissful equanimity.

Conclusion

To allow thoughts of the essence of Existence to abide in the innermost heart is to engage in the highest spiritual practice. It leads the mind toward the realization of its true nature — Sat-Chit-Ananda — and brings about liberation from the constraints of the material world. The more one contemplates this essence, the closer one comes to realizing the oneness with the Divine, experiencing eternal peace, and fulfilling the ultimate purpose of human life.

Verse 5

मना पापसंकल्प सोडूनि द्यावा । मना सत्यसंकल्प जीवीं धरावा ॥ मना कल्पना ते नको वीषयांची । विकारें घडे हो जनीं सर्व ची ची ॥ 5॥

Oh, my Mind! move away from sinful intent; Oh, my Mind! truth-inspired motives do cherish in your heart; Oh, my Mind! dwell not on ideas of indulgence, Know for sure, their ill-effects will, in people, disgust produce! || 5 ॥

The fifth aphorism of Manache Shlok by Samarth Ramdas emphasizes self-restraint and the cultivation of virtuous thoughts. Here’s a closer look at its meaning:

“Oh, my Mind! move away from sinful intent”:

The line “Oh, my Mind! move away from sinful intent” emphasizes the foundational step of self-discipline in spiritual and ethical life. It reflects the deep understanding of human nature where the mind, being a powerful yet volatile entity, can be drawn towards harmful or immoral tendencies due to ignorance, habits, or external influences.

1. Recognition of the Mind’s Role:
   The mind is both the source of liberation (moksha) and bondage (bandhan). If left unchecked, it can become a breeding ground for negative impulses such as greed, anger, envy, or attachment. Hence, the appeal is directly to the mind, which governs thoughts, intentions, and ultimately actions.
2. What Constitutes Sinful Intent?
   • Sinful intent refers to desires or thoughts that cause harm to oneself or others, violating ethical or spiritual principles.
   • Examples include deceit, malice, selfishness, or indulgence in actions that disregard truth and righteousness (dharma).
3. Why Should the Mind Move Away?
   • Inner Consequences: Sinful intentions pollute the mind, leading to guilt, unrest, and inner conflict. They prevent the cultivation of a pure and peaceful heart.
   • Outer Consequences: Such intents manifest as actions that harm relationships, reputation, and one’s standing in society. The karmic repercussions of these actions bind the individual further in the cycle of suffering.
4. How to Move Away from Sinful Intent?
   • Self-Awareness: Develop awareness of the mind’s tendencies and identify the seeds of negative thoughts early.
   • Substitution with Positivity: Replace harmful thoughts with positive, virtuous, and altruistic intentions. For example, replace anger with compassion or greed with generosity.
   • Spiritual Practice: Engage in prayer, meditation, or chanting to purify the mind and align it with higher ideals.
   • Satsang and Self-Reflection: Associate with virtuous people and engage in regular self-inquiry to keep the mind focused on righteousness.
   • Grace and Faith: Surrender to the guidance of a Guru or Divine power for strength in overcoming base instincts.
5. Philosophical Underpinning:
   • Hindu philosophy, particularly the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads, teaches that the root of sinful intent lies in avidya (ignorance of one’s true nature). By recognizing the mind as an instrument and not the self, one can master it and avoid being enslaved by its impulses.
   • Samarth Ramdas’ focus here aligns with the Vedantic emphasis on viveka (discernment) and vairagya (detachment) as tools to steer the mind towards purity.

This line is a gentle yet powerful reminder that the journey of self-mastery begins with the conscious rejection of harmful intentions. By urging the mind to turn away from sin, the verse guides us towards inner clarity and a harmonious life.

“Oh, my Mind! truth-inspired motives do cherish in your heart”:

The phrase “Oh, my Mind! truth-inspired motives do cherish in your heart” emphasizes the need to align one’s thoughts and intentions with satya (truth) as the guiding principle of life. It is a call to nurture motives that are rooted in honesty, purity, and righteousness, which lead to a life of integrity and spiritual fulfillment.

1. Truth as the Foundation of Virtue

• Truth (Satya) is considered the highest virtue in spiritual traditions. It is not just about speaking the truth but living with authenticity and sincerity in every action and thought.
• The motives in our hearts shape our actions, and when these motives are inspired by truth, they radiate clarity, harmony, and moral strength.

2. What are Truth-Inspired Motives?

• Righteous Intentions: Actions motivated by fairness, justice, and consideration for others.
• Selflessness: A desire to serve others without selfish gain.
• Alignment with Dharma: Acting in accordance with one’s duties and responsibilities, as prescribed by one’s role in life (swadharma).
• Spiritual Aspiration: Pursuing thoughts and goals that lead to the realization of one’s higher self.

3. Why Should These Motives Be Cherished?

• Inner Purity: Truth-inspired motives cleanse the heart of negativity and selfishness, fostering peace and contentment.
• Universal Good: Actions stemming from such motives contribute to societal harmony, trust, and mutual respect.
• Spiritual Growth: Truth is the essence of divinity. When cherished, it leads the seeker closer to self-realization and liberation (moksha).

4. How to Cultivate Truth-Inspired Motives?

• Practice Self-Inquiry: Regularly reflect on the reasons behind your thoughts and actions. Ask if they are aligned with truth and righteousness.
• Develop Awareness of Truth in Daily Life: Speak the truth, act with honesty, and avoid hypocrisy or deceit.
• Be Rooted in Love and Compassion: When love inspires motives, they naturally align with truth.
• Seek Guidance from Scriptures and Saints: Texts like the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and teachings of saints like Ramdas provide clarity on living a life anchored in truth.

5. Philosophical Context of Truth in the Heart

• The heart (hridaya) in spiritual texts symbolizes the seat of divinity and purity. When truth resides in the heart, it reflects one’s inner connection to the Supreme Truth, which is eternal and unchanging.
• In Vedantic terms, truth is synonymous with Brahman—the ultimate reality. By cherishing truth-inspired motives, one aligns with the universal essence, moving away from the illusions (maya) of the material world.

6. Practical Benefits of Truth-Inspired Motives

• Clarity of Purpose: With truthful motives, decision-making becomes straightforward, reducing confusion and inner conflict.
• Trustworthiness: Others will trust and respect you, creating harmonious relationships.
• Unshakable Confidence: Actions guided by truth carry no fear or doubt, as they align with the highest principles of life.

By urging the mind to cherish truth-inspired motives, the aphorism encourages a life of moral integrity, spiritual aspiration, and service to humanity, laying the groundwork for profound inner peace and divine connection.

“Oh, my Mind! dwell not on ideas of indulgence”:

The line “Oh, my Mind! dwell not on ideas of indulgence” serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of material pleasures and the spiritual pitfalls they bring. It cautions against excessive attachment to sensory gratification and urges the mind to rise above selfish desires for a more meaningful and peaceful existence.

1. What are Ideas of Indulgence?

• Indulgence refers to the pursuit of sensory or material pleasures without moderation or mindfulness.
• It includes attachment to food, wealth, power, lust, or excessive comfort, which are fleeting and often lead to craving and dependency.
• These ideas typically arise from unchecked desires (vasanas), habits, or societal pressures that distract the mind from higher goals.

2. Why Should the Mind Avoid Such Thoughts?

• Transient Nature of Pleasure: Sensory indulgence offers only temporary satisfaction and often leaves one wanting more, perpetuating a cycle of desire and dissatisfaction.
• Inner Turbulence: Attachment to indulgence leads to greed, fear, anxiety, and ultimately suffering when those pleasures are denied or lost.
• Spiritual Deviation: Such thoughts entangle the mind in materialism (maya), pulling it away from the pursuit of higher truths and self-realization.

3. Impact of Indulgence on the Individual and Society

• Personal Impact: Indulgent thoughts cloud judgment, weaken self-control, and increase dependency on external factors for happiness.
• Societal Impact: When individuals prioritize self-gratification, it can lead to conflict, exploitation, and imbalance in relationships and communities.

4. What to Focus on Instead?

• Contentment (Santosha): Embrace gratitude for what one has and seek joy in simplicity rather than excess.
• Discipline (Tapas): Practice moderation in all areas of life to cultivate inner strength and freedom from cravings.
• Higher Goals: Shift focus from fleeting pleasures to lasting fulfillment through selfless service, spiritual practice, and self-awareness.

5. Practical Steps to Overcome Indulgent Thoughts

• Mindfulness and Self-Observation: Pay attention to thoughts and recognize when they are rooted in fleeting desires.
• Redirect Energy: Channel the mind’s attention toward creative, productive, or spiritually uplifting activities.
• Practice Detachment (Vairagya): Understand the impermanence of sensory pleasures and train the mind to remain unaffected by them.
• Spiritual Practices: Meditation, prayer, and chanting help purify the mind and align it with higher aspirations.

6. Philosophical Context of Indulgence

• In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna warns Arjuna about the dangers of desires:
  

  “Attachment leads to desire; desire leads to anger; anger leads to delusion; delusion leads to loss of memory, and this results in the destruction of the intellect” (BG 2.62-63).

• Indulgence, arising from attachment, clouds one’s wisdom (viveka) and binds the soul in the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Avoiding it is essential for spiritual liberation (moksha).

7. Inner Fulfillment vs. External Indulgence

• True joy and peace are internal, arising from connection with one’s higher self and alignment with universal truths.
• Indulgence, on the other hand, creates a dependency on external factors, distancing one from this innate bliss.

By urging the mind to avoid dwelling on indulgent thoughts, this teaching fosters self-discipline and a life oriented toward spiritual growth, inner peace, and the realization of one’s true purpose.

“Know for sure, their ill-effects will, in people, disgust produce!”:

The line “Know for sure, their ill-effects will, in people, disgust produce!” serves as a cautionary warning about the far-reaching consequences of immoral or indulgent actions. It highlights both personal and societal repercussions, urging the mind to understand the gravity of such behaviors and their effects on one’s character and relationships.

1. The Nature of Ill-Effects

• Actions arising from sinful intent or indulgence often lead to negative consequences, such as loss of integrity, emotional turmoil, and damage to one’s inner peace.
• These actions create ripples in society, impacting others and inviting judgment, mistrust, and disapproval.

2. Disgust from Others

• Social Disharmony: When someone acts selfishly or harmfully, others naturally develop resentment or aversion toward them.
• Loss of Respect: Indulgent or immoral actions erode the trust and respect one has built, tarnishing their reputation and relationships.
• Isolation: People distance themselves from those who prioritize their own gratification at the expense of others, leading to social alienation.

3. Tarnishing the Inner Self

• Guilt and Shame: Actions misaligned with truth and virtue leave a lasting imprint of regret on one’s conscience.
• Karmic Consequences: According to spiritual laws, such actions generate negative karma, perpetuating cycles of suffering and adversity.
• Disconnect from Higher Values: Indulgent acts pull the mind away from spiritual growth, creating inner turbulence and weakening one’s moral compass.

4. A Tarnished Reputation is Difficult to Restore

• Fragility of Trust: Trust and respect take time to build but can be easily destroyed by a single act of impropriety.
• Long-Lasting Impressions: Even when one seeks to reform, others may remember their past misdeeds, making it challenging to rebuild a positive reputation.

5. Examples from Life and Scriptures

• In epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, characters like Ravana and Duryodhana lose the respect of their peers due to indulgent and sinful actions, leading to their downfall.
• Similarly, in modern life, individuals who act dishonestly or selfishly often face societal backlash, ruining their standing in the community.

6. Why Understanding This is Important

• By realizing the long-term repercussions of indulgent or sinful acts, one can make wiser choices, rooted in virtue and responsibility.
• This understanding fosters accountability, encouraging one to think before acting and to prioritize values over transient desires.

7. How to Avoid Such Ill-Effects

• Practice Restraint: Avoid actions that harm others or violate moral principles.
• Develop Empathy: Consider how one’s actions affect others and aim to act with kindness and fairness.
• Pursue Inner Purity: Regular self-reflection and spiritual practice help cleanse the mind of negative tendencies.
• Seek Guidance: Learn from the lives and teachings of saints and spiritual texts to stay on the path of righteousness.

8. Philosophical Insight

• As per Vedantic teachings, one’s outer actions are a reflection of the inner state. Actions born from ignorance (avidya) and indulgence lead to disharmony, while those aligned with truth (satya) and righteousness (dharma) bring inner peace and societal goodwill.

By urging the mind to understand the ill-effects of sinful or indulgent acts, this aphorism encourages mindful living, emphasizing that true dignity lies in virtuous conduct and spiritual alignment.

This aphorism advises mindfulness and self-discipline, emphasizing that a life rooted in truth and virtue fosters inner peace and respect in the world. It reflects the timeless teachings of Vedantic wisdom and practical morality.

Verse 6

नको रे मना क्रोध हा खेदकारी । नको रे मना काम नाना विकारी ॥ नको रे मना सर्वदा अंगिकारू । नको रे मना मत्सरू दंभ भारू ॥ ६ ॥

Oh, my Mind! harbor no anger, grief is its product; Oh, my Mind! have no lustful desires, root of sickness galore; Oh, my Mind! shelter or cling you never overwhelming to such traits.  O mind, do not harbour jealousy or the burden of arrogance, and hypocrisy. ॥ 6 ॥