Value: Salutations to Guru - May 2025
First Week: Submit the Mind - pranipada
Pujya Gurudev said, "Man is what his faith is." This concept is inspired by Lord Krishna's teaching in the Bhagavad Gita (17:3), which states, "यो यच्छ्रद्धः स एव सः." Our thoughts are shaped by our beliefs. If you believe that wealth can bring more joy into your life, your thoughts will focus on seeking more wealth. Others may prioritize health over wealth, and so on.
As you gain maturity in your thinking and reflection, you begin to develop faith in spiritual knowledge and the pursuit of liberation. This leads to building faith in your Guru, whose words and guidance become paramount in your life. Fondly remembering the Guru with deep reverence will become second nature to you.
Japa - daily repeat 108 names of Pujya Gurudev
The qualities of a Guru serve as the sadhana (spiritual practice) for seekers (सिद्धस्य लक्षणानि साधकस्य साधनानि). Many seekers are often unsure about where to begin their spiritual journey. What is the first step? We can start by recalling the qualities of Gurudev as indicated in the 108 names. Daily chanting and remembering Him as the embodiment of those qualities will inspire us to elevate our spiritual awareness. Take, for example, the first name, Ajah, which means 'unborn.' Upon reflection, you will realize that this does not refer to His physical body or mind. He embodies Chinmaya, the Pure Consciousness that is unborn. If that is the case, who am I? I am also the same unborn Pure Consciousness. I, too, am the beginningless presence that knows no death. I am immortal. So, where is the fear of change and death? Everyone around me is also immortal by nature. I do not need to grieve for anyone's departure. Instead, I only need to pray that the immortal soul that left the body discovers this truth sooner rather than later. This includes me too. This is how to reflect.
Keep Him near you
We cannot expect the loving Guru to be physically present with us. But we can uplift our mind to recognize His constant presence. If we have true reverence to Gurudev, we will not say, do or even think anything immoral, unethical or vulgar. This is a simple discipline every disciple of Gurudev follows.
Even while doing the daily chores, feel His company as if He is watching you doing what you do. His advice has been: 'Keep the mind where the hand is!' More so, one should recognize His presence while chanting His holy names. If you are doing the paduka puja, feel that you are offering the puja at His very own lotus feet.
