Real knowledge and education is not about storing masses of data in our brain; it means to have the wisdom to see every human being with equal vision. Ordinary knowledge obtained by a university education pertains only to matter. Knowledge means knowing the distinction between spirit and matter. In modern education there is no knowledge about spirit; they are simply taking care of the material elements and bodily needs. The Bhagavad-gita (13.16) states that Krishna is situated far away from us – and is simultaneously very close to us. Paradoxical scriptural statements like this point to the inconceivable attributes of Krishna. At the same time, they can also refer to our changing, conflicting feelings while trying to approach him. During our spiritual practices like praying, chanting or meditating, we may sometimes sense Krishna’s presence distinctly, almost tangibly, and so feel that he is very close to us. More often, we may go through our spiritual practices sensing Krishna’s presence only remotely or not at all, thereby feeling that he is very far away from us. This may dishearten us and may even trigger second thoughts about continuing our spiritual practices. At such times, we need to urgently reverse the discouraging train of thoughts set in motion by the dubious second thoughts. For bringing about this reversal, we can trigger spiritually encouraging thoughts by faithfully contemplating on the Gita’s declaration (15.15) of Krishna’s proximity, indeed his indwelling presence. He is personally, constantly, lovingly present with us in our own hearts, closer than anyone else can ever be. These thoughts will give us the strength to persevere in our spiritual practices, which will soon restore our devotional disposition. This disposition will enable us to re-experience Krishna’s presence in the form of divine solace and sublime warmth. Then we will recognize that Krishna had never gone far away… it was we who had temporarily strayed away. Bhagavad Gita Chapter 13 Text 16 bahir antaś ca bhūtānām acaraṁ caram eva ca sūkṣmatvāt tad avijñeyaṁ dūra-sthaṁ cāntike ca tat “Lord Krishna Said: The Supreme Truth exists outside and inside of all living beings, the moving and the nonmoving. Because He is subtle, He is beyond the power of the material senses to see or to know. Although far, far away, He is also near to all.” In Vedic literature we understand that Nārāyaṇa, the Supreme Person, is residing both outside and inside of every living entity. He is present both in the spiritual and material world. Although He is far, far away, still He is near to us. These are the statements of Vedic literature. Āsīno dūraṁ vrajati śayāno yāti sarvataḥ. And, because He is always engaged in transcendental bliss, we cannot understand how He is enjoying His full opulence. We cannot see or understand with these material senses. Therefore in the Vedic language it is said that to understand Him our material mind and senses cannot act. But one who has purified his mind and senses by practicing Kṛṣṇa consciousness in devotional service can see Him constantly. It is confirmed in Brahmā-saṁhitā that the devotee who has developed love for the Supreme God can see Him always, without cessation. And it is confirmed in Bhagavad-gītā (11.54) that He can be seen and understood only by devotional service. Bhaktyā tvananyayā śakyaḥ. When we understand our relationship with God then we all will be happy. It is an essential factor for establishing peace in the world. Joy can only be experienced when we offer our love to Krishna. Please accept my humble obeisances All glories to Srila Gurudeva ... All glories to Srila Prabhupada ... Always think of the Lotus Feet of Lord Krishna and you will find no difficulties in executing the tasks allotted to you by Krishna. As you clap your hands in praise for success, similarly clap your hands in Sankirtan movement of Holy Names. Living beings who are entangled in the complicated meshes of birth and death can be freed immediately by even unconsciously chanting the holy name of Krishna, which is feared by fear personified. — Srimad Bhagavatam, 01.01.15. Chant these names with love and you will feel the ecstasy: Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare ... Hare Krishna ... Jay Jagannath ... ~~ Bhakta Sanjay https://facebook/groups/harekrishnaharerama/
Posted on: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 01:07:43 +0000