Miscellaneous - Religion   

Path to salvation

CHENNAI: Worldly life is characterised by the alternating nature of joy and sorrow and all creatures on earth or among the celestials are subject to the three gunas — Satva, Rajas and Tamas — which are a manifestation of Prakriti. Every Jivatma has to understand that the three Gunas can help or obstruct the path to liberation.

While explaining to Arjuna the very essence of the spiritual discipline that can relieve the Jivatma from the cycle of births, Lord Krishna points out that the subtle bond between the immortal soul and the perishable body has to be recognised if one has to understand the truth and purpose of one's existence.

The Lord further states that one should have equanimity of mind towards joy and sorrow, and understand that whatever happens is because of one's Karma and continue to perform one's ordained duties if one has to transcend the binding effects of the gunas, said Sri O. R. Devanathan in a lecture.

During His incarnations the Lord has practically lived out His teachings to enable individuals to follow His example.

For instance, He demonstrates the meaning of maintaining equanimity of mind in many instances as Lord Rama or Krishna. When Sisupala hurled curses at Him during the concluding stage of the Rajasuya Yaga performed by Yudhishtira, the Lord patiently bore a hundred abuses and used His discus only after that to liberate him.

Lord Krishna warns that hell has three doors, lust, rage and greed, and these temptations lead man to ruin.

By cultivating non-attachment and learning to contemplate on the Brahman one can overcome ignorance that causes pride and delusion.

A man who is born with tendencies towards the divine is fearless, charitable, self-controlled, straightforward, truthful, free from anger, greed and malice, compassionate, gentle, modest, forgiving, and has faith in the strength of his higher nature. Those with evil tendencies are not truthful, lack right conduct, and flout ethical codes. They are arrogant, vain and full of pride.

Realised souls who have gained tranquillity through spiritual disciplines behold Him in their consciousness.

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