Value: Bhakti - October 2025
Fourth Week: Reflection & Contemplation
Reflection and contemplation are essential steps in understanding spiritual teachings. The first step is reflection, which involves recalling the teachings directly imparted by the Guru. Often, we do not pay enough attention when hearing these teachings, leading to difficulties in connecting them coherently. Reflection helps us organize these teachings in our minds by bringing them to memory.
Contemplation follows reflection. This process involves aligning our personal priorities with the goals outlined in the teachings. It is clear that all beings desire lasting happiness, and the teachings found in the Upanishads and other scriptures guide us on how to achieve it. Clarity about this pursuit comes through contemplation.
Experiencing the proximity of His presence
God embodies infinite happiness, and discovering Him as the eternal presence within our hearts is the goal of all spiritual paths. Sri Ramana Maharshi highlights this with his significant statement: "Resting the mind in (God, who resides in) the heart is the aim of all yogas." A well-known mantra from the Upanishads states, "Just as butter hidden in milk rises to the surface through constant churning, the presence of the divine, which is hidden in our hearts, will manifest only by churning the heart with the help of the mind."
Upon making this discovery, we should consider a pivotal question: "Is He in me, or am I in Him?" Both perspectives imply a separation between oneself and God. The phrase "He is in me" encourages us to discipline and divine our lives, serving as a constant reminder that He observes all our words, actions, and thoughts. Conversely, the phrase "I am in Him" leads to surrender, devotion, and an egoless existence.
Study of devotional texts
Devotion develops through steady association with fellow devotees. Regularly seek the company of those who love God, perform services for Him, sing His praises, and love everyone as if they were God.
When you cannot find a community of devotees, read the devotional texts and compositions authored by them. Through their words, you can cultivate the same devotional feelings and love for God. Bhakti finds its expression through selfless service, singing with devotion, and maintaining gratitude for everything we receive from Him.
