Chapter 23, Leela 4: Ordeal of Guru-Bhakti

Leela:

Fakir Pir Mohamad of Malegaon, alias Bade Baba, was much respected by Sai Baba, and was always seated in a place of honour on Baba’s right side. Only after the chillum (clay pipe used by Hindu monks) was first smoked by him, was it then offered to Baba and others. When meals were served, Baba respectfully called out for Bade Baba and made him sit on His left side, and would only begin eating after Bade Baba began. Baba also gave him money out of the amount collected as dakshina every day. Whenever Bade Baba would leave for some distant place, Baba would accompany him for the first hundred steps. Such was his position with Baba.

 

Once, somebody brought a goat to the Masjid. It was weak, old and about to die. Soon people gathered around to see him. Baba asked Bade Baba to behead it with one stroke, and offer it as an oblation. He refused, saying, "how can I kill him without any reason?"

 

Next, Baba asked Shama to kill the goat. Shama went to Radhakrishna Mai to borrow a knife from her and placed it before Baba. After finding out the purpose for which the knife was taken, she had it recalled. Then Shama left to borrow another knife, but didn’t return.

 

Then came Kakasaheb Dixit’s turn. Baba asked him to get a knife and kill the goat, to relieve him of his suffering and pain. He went to Sathe's Wada and returned with a knife. He was ready to kill it at Baba's bidding. Kakasaheb was born in a Brahmin family and had never known killing in his entire life. Though averse any act of violence, he found the courage to kill the goat in his shraddha for his Guru. The people gathered at the Masjid were amazed to see that, while Bade Baba had refused to kill the goat, a pure Brahmin was making preparations to do so. Kakasaheb tightened his dhotar (traditional men’s garment), raised the knife with a semicircular motion, and looked at Baba for the final signal. “So Baba, must I now strike him? Tell me, just this once”.

 

Baba said, "Hmm! Kill him now! What are waiting for? ".

 

Then, when the hand was just about to come down, Baba said, "No, no Kaka! Stop. Oh, how heartless you are! Being a Brahmin, you are willing to kill? Is there no consideration in your heart?"

 

Kakasaheb immediately obeyed, and put down the knife.  

It was settled that the goat should be disposed of near a place called Takkya, where fakirs used to sit. When the goat was being removed to that place, it fell dead on the way.

Based on Shri Sai Satcharita, The wonderful life and teachings of Shri Sai Baba, Translated by Nagesh Vasudev Gunaji (Mumbai: Shri Sai Baba Sansthan, Shirdi, 20^th Edition 2002), p123

Based on Shri Sai Satcharita, The Life and Teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, G. R. Dhalbokar, Translated by Indira Kher (Slovenia: Bird Publisher, 2009), p196

 

Teachings from Leela:

1)    When a Sadguru tests His devotee, it is to display to other devotees, his ultimate level of shraddha in Him and to set this up as an example for others to strive for

The Sadguru has intimate knowledge of his devotee’s spiritual progress and of the level of shraddha in him, and therefore does not need to test him.  If a Sadguru does subject his devotee to a test of shraddha, it is to communicate this result to other devotees, to inspire them.

In our tradition, we have very high regard for our Sadguru. Here is how Guru Gita defines a Guru

"I always bow to the Guru who is bliss incarnate, who bestows happiness, whose face is radiant with joy. His essential nature is knowledge. He is aware of his true self. He is the Lord of yogis, he is adorable, he is the physician who cures the disease of birth and death."

Sri Guru Gita—verse 93.

Upon reading this leela, one might conclude that it displays a devotee’s surrender to their Sadguru. It is in fact not surrender, but their high level of shraddha, which enables them to immediately follow their Sadguru’s command without hesitation. In my previous blog, Chapter 12, Leela 2: Bhausaheb Dhumal, I have discussed the difference between surrender and shraddha. By obeying a Sadguru’s command, a devotee is not demonstrating surrender, but shraddha in his Sadguru, his reliance on the judgement of a trusted guide and expert.

Here is a beautiful story of a disciple’s steadfast devotion to his Sadguru (note 1):

Padmapaada was the favorite student of Shri Jagadguru Aadi Shankaraachaarya. His original name was Sananda. Once Shri Aadi Shankaraachaarya overheard His other students complaining amongst themselves that their Guru liked Sananda the most. What is so great about him?

 

In order to show the steadfast devotion of Sananda to his other students, Shri Aadi Shankaraachaarya decided to stage a scene. One day, Adi Shankaracharya was alone on one bank of Ganga river, while all his students were on the opposite bank. Suddenly he shouted, “Sananda! Come here, quickly!” All who heard the Guruji’s shout wondered how Sananda was going to cross the river. The boat was on the other side of the river, but Sananda could only think of obeying his Guru’s command, and without any doubt, with his heart full of devotion to his Guru, he started to run across the river.

 

The river Ganga, acknowledging Sananda’s devotion, made lotus flowers appear below Sananda’s feet as he ran across the river. These lotuses helped carry Sananda to his Guru, while the other students watched this miracle of nature in awe. From that day onwards, Sananda came to be known as Padma-Paada. Padma, meaning lotus and Paada meaning feet.

 

Level of Shraddha

We can perform the mental exercise of imagining situations where our Sadguru commands us to do something, and examine our own responses. Would we immediately act upon the command, or would we instead start contemplating the consequences of acting upon them because we might have trouble dealing with the consequences? If our Sadguru asked, would we be willing to abandon our worldly lives, if so required? Could we set aside our status in the world, worldly possessions, the relationships with those around us?

 

Obstacles to Shraddha

Let us explore why we might be unable to act on our Sadguru’s command, if He or She asks us to do something beyond our capacity to immediately obey.  Here are some obstacles:

1.    Doubt:  You still have some doubts about the competency of your Sadguru

It is possible to have some doubts, in the beginning, regarding the competency of your Sadguru. It is normal to have doubts since we are living in the day and age where there are many false Gurus who have the potential to cause you great harm and take advantage of you.

When you encounter a true Sadguru, all your doubts will be resolved over time. When you will experience His presence in your life, you will notice changes within you which were not present before and which you did not do anything to create. I remember my husband and I noticed we had peace of mind after our first visit to Shirdi.

Baba has performed many miracles to increase his devotees’ shraddha in Him. In many of the leelas recorded in the Sai Satcharitra, when devotees tested Him, Baba took on the challenge and helped to clarify their doubts.

2.    Your Ego: You trust your Sadguru, but believe that you know how to handle some areas in your life better than Him

Ego, in Sanskrit is called “Ahamkara”. “Aham” means “I” and “kara” means “doer”. When we identify ourselves to our body, we create a feeling of “me” or “mine”. Until we are attached to our body and are ignorant of our true nature, we think it is against our freedom to submit to the commands of our Sadguru, but if you contemplate upon this, you will find that what you call your own freedom is, in fact, slavery to your own ego. Gaining victory over your ego is true freedom. When we are still attached to our ego, it is hard to follow our Guru’s command without hesitation.

To overcome this inadequacy, your own self effort is required. Your effort towards your spiritual practice will, over time, diminish your ego and your worldly attachments. Your Sadguru is your guide in this spiritual journey.

3.    Conflict with Ashrama Dharma:  You trust your Sadguru but see a conflict between His command and your responsibilities to your family

Baba never tested anyone’s shraddha by opposing it to their Grihasta ashram dharma (responsibilities in one’s householder phase). He, in fact, insisted that His devotees go home and take care of their families and household duties as soon as aarti was over.

If you are in the stage of life whereby your Grihasta ashram duties are complete, and upon contemplation, you still feel that you will not able to act immediately upon your Sadguru’s command, then you need to examine your mind to understand what is stopping you from doing so, and then work towards removing these obstacles.

4.    Conflict with Varna Dharma or Religious Practice: You trust your Sadguru, but see conflict between his command and traditionally prescribed religious practice

By asking Kakasaheb Dixit, who belonged to the Brahmin varna, to perform a task which was disallowed to him, Baba challenged rigid perceptions and made it be known that, in advanced spiritual practice, traditions and religious restrictions must be set aside.

To overcome this obstacle, you must contemplate upon the differences between spiritual development, which is universal to all life, and historically accumulated religious doctrine and practice. As you advance on your spiritual journey, you will find this distinction easier to make.

To conclude, a Sadguru will never put a disciple through the ordeal of a severe test unless they are ready for it. A Sadguru is aware of each and every disciple’s level of shraddha they have attained so far. Via this leela, Baba wants us to understand that, by testing Kakasaheb Dixit and ordering him to kill the goat, knowing fully well that he was an orthodox Brahmin, He expects us to be willing to set aside various restrictions we have accepted upon our actions, be they religious or otherwise.

By following Baba’s command without hesitation, Kakasaheb displayed the ultimate level of shraddha in Him.  Baba wanted this displayed to His other devotees as an example to strive for.

 

Putting into Practice

Here are some suggestions on how we could use this leela in our daily lives.

1)    When a Sadguru tests His devotee, it is to display to other devotees, his ultimate level of shraddha in Him and to set this up as an example for others to strive for

To build your shraddha to the level demonstrated by Kakasaheb Dixit, you need to first understand your current level of shraddha. As described above, one way to do this is to contemplate upon your reaction to potential commands your Sadguru may make to you.

If you find that you would hesitate to obey some commands, you must next identify the obstacles in your way towards this deep level of shraddha, and work towards diminishing them, and eventually removing them.

 

Listen to the stories with reverence; Reflect upon them deeply. After reflection, contemplate on them. This will bring great satisfaction. Shirdi Sai Baba Shri Sai Satcharita, The Life and Teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, Chapter 3, verse 18

 

Mantra:

Om, Sarve bhavantu sukhinaḥ
Sarve santu nirāmayāḥ
Sarve bhadrāṇi paśyantu
Mā kashchit duḥkha bhāgbhavet
Oṁ Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ

Meaning:

May all be prosperous and happy
May all be free from illness
May all see what is spiritually uplifting
May no one suffer
Om peace, peace, peace

 

This above mantra is from the Brihadaaranyaka Upanishad

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/seekingshanti/2015/09/hinduprayerforeveryone_globalgoals/

 

I would encourage all of you to please share your interpretations, learnings and experiences on how you have put this leela into practice.

 

Om Sai Ram.

Notes:

1)     http://www.region7saicenters.org/saidocuments/Seven%20Stories.pdf

 

Chapter 40, Leela 1: Mrs.Deo's Udyapan Ceremony

Leela:

Mr. Deo was a Mamlatdar (public officer in charge of a district) at Dahanu, in Thana District. His mother had completed observation of more than 25 vows and a Udyapan (a Hindu ceremony performed on the closing and concluding of any religious observance) was planned. Mr.Deo set a date for the ceremony and wrote a letter to Bapusaheb Jog, asking him to request Sai Baba, on his behalf, to attend the ceremonial feast, as without His attendance the ceremony would not be complete.

 

Bapusaheb Jog read out the letter to Baba. Baba took note of the pure-hearted invitation and said, "I always think of him who remembers Me. I require no conveyance, not carriage, nor tanga (two-wheel horse buggy), nor train nor airplane. I rush to manifest myself to him who lovingly calls me. Write to him a pleasing reply that three of us, Myself, yourself and a third will be attending."

 

Mr.Jog informed Mr.Deo of what Baba said. The latter was much pleased, but he knew that Baba never travelled anywhere out of Shirdi in person, except for Rahata, Rui and Nimgaon. He also thought that nothing was impossible for Baba, as He was all-pervading and that He might come, in any form He likes, and fulfill His words.

A few days before the date, a Sannyasi in Bengali dress and professing to work for the cause of the protection of the cows, came to the station-master at Dahanu to collect donation subscriptions. The latter told him to go into town and see the Mamlatdar (Mr.Deo) and use his help to collect donations.

 

Just then, the Mamlatdar happened to show up at the station, and the station-master introduced the Sannyasi to him. Both sat talking on the platform. Mr. Deo told him that a subscription-list for another charitable cause had already been opened by a leading citizen, Rao Saheb Narottam Shetti, so it was not a good idea to start another subscription-list at this time, and it would be better if he would come again after 2 to 4 months. Hearing this, the Sannyasi left.

Just a few days later, on the date of the Udyapan, the Sannyasi arrived in a tanga and stopped in front of Mr.Deo's house at about 10 a.m. Deo thought that he had come for donation subscriptions. Seeing him busy with the preparations of the ceremony, the Sannyasi said that he had come, not for donations, but for the feast.

 

Mr. Deo said, "Very happy to hear this. You are welcome, the house is yours."

 

The Sannyasi said, "Two young men are with me."

 

Mr. Deo replied, "Great, bring them with you."

 

As lunch was two hours away, Mr. Deo enquired where he should send for them.

 

The Sannyasi responded that it was not necessary as he would come himself at the appointed time.

 

Deo asked him to come at noon.

 

Exactly at twelve noon, the Sannyasi arrived, along with two others, joined the feast, and after feeding themselves, left.

After the ceremony was finished, Mr. Deo wrote a letter to Bapusaheb Jog complaining of Baba's breach of promise. Bapusaheb went to Baba with the letter, but before it was opened, Baba spoke, "Ah, he says that I promised him that I would come but deceived him. Inform him that I did attend his feast with two others, but he failed to recognize Me. Then why did he call me at all? Tell him that he thought that the Sannyasi came to ask for subscription money. Did I not remove his doubt in that respect, and did I not say that I would come with two others, and did not the three of us arrive at the right time and take part in the feast? See, to keep My word, I would sacrifice my life. I would never be untrue to My words."

 

This reply gladdened Bapusaheb's heart and he communicated Baba’s reply in its entirety to Mr. Deo. As soon as Mr. Deo read it, he burst into tears of joy, taking himself to task mentally for vainly blaming Baba. He wondered how he was deceived by the Sannyasi's prior visit where he came asking about donation subscriptions, and how he failed to catch the significance of the Sannyasi's words, that he would come with two others for the feast.

 

Based on Shri Sai Satcharita, The wonderful life and teachings of Shri Sai Baba, Translated by Nagesh Vasudev Gunaji (Mumbai: Shri Sai Baba Sansthan, Shirdi, 20^th Edition 2002), p212

Based on Shri Sai Satcharita, The Life and Teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, G. R. Dhalbokar, Translated by Indira Kher (Slovenia: Bird Publisher, 2009), p342

 

Teachings from Leela:

1)    When a Sadguru makes a commitment to his devotees, He will do anything necessary to make good on that commitment

Via this leela, Baba wants us to know that, when we invite Him with love and devotion, He does manifest Himself. Baba said, “to keep My word, I would sacrifice my life. I would never be untrue to My words". Even though Baba was physically in Shirdi always, He would manifest Himself outside Shirdi, to either keep His promise or to be at the service of His devotees.

Even today, when Baba is not in His physical form, there are numerous instances whereby Baba has manifested Himself to fulfill His devotees wishes when they invite Him for any pooja performed in their home. I will share one such experience.

Once we had planned a pooja in our home and we had invited a small number of close friends and family.  I really wanted Baba to join us in this pooja, so I prayed to Him to please come, and to give me an indication of his presence and the fulfillment of my wish, by having someone I had not invited come too.  

Baba did fulfill my wish and one such person came who was not invited. Later, as she left, she said to me that she really liked the pooja and the food. I was overjoyed. I cannot thank Baba enough for His kindness and willingness to fulfill His devotees’ wishes and promises.

When Baba tells us in this leela, that he takes his word to his devotees very seriously, this applies to all the commitments he makes to them.  As Sadguru to his devotees, he is committed to their welfare, and to seeing them to moksha. We can be sure that He takes this commitment just as seriously.

 

Putting into Practice

Here are some suggestions on how we could use this leela in our daily lives.

1)    When a Sadguru makes a commitment to his devotees, He will do anything necessary to make good on that commitment

 

Once you are under the guidance of a Sadguru, if you need any reassurance that He will see you to your spiritual goal, just contemplate upon this leela.

 

Here are Baba’s Eleven Assurances to His devotees (note 1):

 

1.    Whosoever puts their feet on Shirdi soil, their sufferings will come to an end.

2.    The wretched and miserable will rise to joy and happiness as soon as they climb the steps of the mosque.

3.    I shall be ever active and vigorous even after leaving this earthly body.

4.    My tomb shall bless and speak to the needs of my devotees.

5.    I shall be active and vigorous even from my tomb.

6.    My mortal remains will speak from my tomb.

7.    I am ever living to help and guide all who come to me, who surrender to me and who seek refuge in me.

8.    If you look to me, I look to you.

9.    If you cast your burden on me, I shall surely bear it.

10.  If you seek my advice and help, it shall be given to you at once.

11.  There shall be no want in the house of my devotee.

 

Take comfort in the fact that One who takes His commitments to you so seriously is making these commitments to you, and use this reassurance to deepen your own resolve to work towards your own spiritual development.

 

Listen to the stories with reverence; Reflect upon them deeply. After reflection, contemplate on them. This will bring great satisfaction. Shirdi Sai Baba Shri Sai Satcharita, The Life and Teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, Chapter 3, verse 18

 

 

Mantra:

Om, Sarve bhavantu sukhinaḥ
Sarve santu nirāmayāḥ
Sarve bhadrāṇi paśyantu
Mā kashchit duḥkha bhāgbhavet
Oṁ Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ

Meaning:

May all be prosperous and happy
May all be free from illness
May all see what is spiritually uplifting
May no one suffer
Om peace, peace, peace

 

This above mantra is from the Brihadaaranyaka Upanishad

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/seekingshanti/2015/09/hinduprayerforeveryone_globalgoals/

I would encourage all of you to please share your interpretations, learnings and experiences on how you have put this leela into practice.

 

 

Om Sai Ram.

 

Notes:

1.     Shri Sadguru Sai Baba's Assurance to his devotees

Chapter 14, Leela 1: Ratanji of Nanded

Leela:

In Nanded, in Nizam’s kingdom, there lived Ratanji Shapurji Wadia, a Parsi mill-contractor and trader. He had amassed a fortune and had acquired fields and lands. He had cattle, horses and conveyances and was very prosperous. To all outward appearances, he looked very happy and contented, but inwardly, he was not so.

 

Providential dispensation is such that no one in this world is completely happy and rich. Ratanji was no exception to this. He was liberal and charitable, gave food and clothing to the poor and helped all in various ways. The people took him to be a good and happy man, but Ratanji thought himself miserable as, after twelve daughters, he had no male heir.

 

As Kirtan (singing glories of the Lord) without love or devotion, song without rhythm or music, a Brahmin without the sacred thread, proficiency in all arts without discriminating knowledge, pilgrimage without repentance and ornaments without the necklace are without beauty and joy, so is the household without a son.

 

Ratanji always brooded on this matter and said in his mind, “Will God ever bless me with at least one son?” He was sad and had no relish for food or drink. Day and night, he was depressed and full of worry.

 

He had great regard for Dasganu Maharaj (a famous devotee of Baba). He opened his heart before him. Dasganu advised him to go to Shirdi, take Baba's darshan, fall at His Feet, seek His blessings and tell Him in detail his secret wish. Ratanji liked the idea.

 

After a few days, Rattonji went to Shirdi, took Baba's darshan and fell at His Feet. Then opening a basket, he took out a beautiful garland of flowers and placed it lovingly around Baba's neck and offered Him a basket of choice fruit. With great respect he then sat near Baba in all humility and prayed to Him, saying, “Many persons who find themselves in difficult situations come to You, and You relieve them immediately. Hearing this, I have sought anxiously Your Feet. Please do not turn me away.”

 

Baba then said to him, “And so, after all these days, you have come to me today! But then, give me first, whatever dakshina you wish to give. Only then will you get your satisfaction”.  He continued, “I know you have already given me three rupees and fourteen annas.  Now give me the remaining money which you have brought with you, as dakshina”.

 

Hearing this, Ratanji was rather puzzled, and could not understand what Baba meant.

“This is the first time I have come to Shirdi, and I have never sent any gifts with anyone else”, he thought. But he gave the dakshina he had with him and bowed at Baba’s Feet. He then explained to Baba fully, why he sought His help, and prayed that Baba should bless him with a son.

 

Baba was moved and told him not to be worried, and that that time his unhappy days had ended. He then gave him Udi, placed His hand on his head and blessed him saying that Allah (God) would satisfy his heart's desire.

 

After taking Baba's leave, Ratanji returned to Nanded and told Dasganu everything that had taken place at Shirdi. He said that everything went well, that he got Baba's darshan and blessing with Prasad, but there was one thing which he could not understand. “Three rupees and fourteen annas you have given me, I know”, Baba had said. “Please explain as to what Baba meant by this”, he said to Dasganu, “What rupees and what annas? How could I have given anything to him before?”.

 

To Dasganu also, it was a puzzle, and he pondered much over it. After some time, he remembered that Ratanji had received, some days ago, a Muslim saint named Moulisaheb, in his house and had spent some money for his reception. Moulisaheb was a saint who worked as a porter, and was well known to the people of Nanded. When Ratanji decided to go the Shirdi, Molisaheb casually dropped in on Ratanji. Ratanji knew him and loved him, so had given a small party in his honour.

 

Dasganu asked Ratanji to have the list of expenditures for this reception brought, and everybody was amazed to see that the expenses totalled exactly three rupees and fourteen annas, nothing more, nothing less.

 

Ratanji was satisfied with this explanation and his faith in Baba was confirmed and increased. In due time, he was blessed with a son and he was filled with joy.

 

Based on Shri Sai Satcharita, The wonderful life and teachings of Shri Sai Baba, Translated by Nagesh Vasudev Gunaji (Mumbai: Shri Sai Baba Sansthan, Shirdi, 20^th Edition 2002), p77

Based on Shri Sai Satcharita, The Life and Teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, G. R. Dhalbokar, Translated by Indira Kher (Slovenia: Bird Publisher, 2009), p114

 

Teachings from Leela:

1)    A Sadguru will fulfill a devotee’s worldly desires in order to help silence his disturbed mind, so that he can turn his attention to spiritual development

What are the causes of a disturbed mind?

When we overly attach ourselves to the sense objects by constantly thinking about them, even when it is difficult to acquire them, this causes great disturbance in our mind.

By controlling our senses and cultivating vairagya (detachment) from the sense objects, we can calm the restlessness and disturbance of the mind.

In Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, verses 58, Krishna clearly says (note 1):

G 2.58: One who is able to withdraw the senses from their objects, just as a tortoise withdraws its limbs into its shell, is established in divine wisdom.

Even though Ratanji had 12 daughters, he was disturbed and sad as he had no male heir.  Baba Himself, well versed in Vedanta, knowing the difference between real and unreal, still helped Ratanji by fulfilling his worldly desires, which were based on ignorance.

As stated in several other leelas, Baba says that spiritual progress cannot be achieved on an empty stomach. Similarly, spiritual progress is not possible if our minds are agitated and restless with worldly desires.

Via this leela, Baba is letting us know that He is willing to help us with our worldly desires, if they help calm our minds, so that we can begin to pay attention towards our spiritual progress.    

2)    Your karma (actions) are tracked by the Law of Karma, which keeps exact accounting, and the results of your karma will be just as exact 

Via this leela, Baba is teaching us that we all are governed by the Law or Karma.

What is the difference between karma and the law of karma

A karma is an action we perform. The Law of Karma is the universal law which governs the results of all our karma, ensuring that we receive the result of each karma we do, whether good or bad.

We need to understand this law, as the better we understand it, the better choices we will make about our actions. My Vedanta teacher, Rita Nayar, used to say that God put the Law of Karma in place, and then became hands free. It is this law which determines the results of all your actions, so God can remain impartial. Everyone is governed by the same law. With this understanding comes a greater responsibility for the choices we make and the actions we undertake.  

The Law of Karma keeps exact accounting

All our karma (actions) are carefully recorded and the results match exactly to our deeds. Baba asked Ratanji to give Him dakshina and mentioned that He had already received the sum of three rupees and fourteen annas. Das Ganuji was able to solve the mystery of this amount, as it exactly matched the amount spent by Ratanji on the reception of Maulisaheb, a Muslim saint.

By asking for the exact amount, not only did Baba prove to Ratanji that, while rooted in Shirdi, He knew everything that was happening in his house and that nothing was hidden from Him. Baba also proved that we are exactly accountable for each of our actions. The Law of Karma keeps exact records of each karma, nothing more, nothing less, and the results will also be just as exact.

 

Putting into Practice

Here are some suggestions on how we could use this leela in our daily lives.

1)    A Sadguru will fulfill a devotee’s worldly desires in order to help silence his disturbed mind, so that he can turn his attention to spiritual development

If you find yourself in a situation where something is bothering you and you cannot focus on anything except for the one desire to be fulfilled, remember this leela and ask your Sadguru for help. He will most assuredly come to your rescue and help you with your desire, thereby calming your mind, so you can give due attention to your spiritual progress.

Baba is constantly working on His devotees, helping them to make spiritual progress. He will guide us all the way to Moksha, no matter how many lifetimes it takes. Have shraddha in Him and seek His help when you need it.

 

2)    Your karma (actions) are tracked by the Law of Karma, which keeps exact accounting, and the results of your karma will be just as exact   

In your everyday life, practice living with awareness by getting into the habit of monitoring from moment to moment, the state of your mind, and the activities you are currently performing. 

As you get proficient in this monitoring, you must use this ability to deflect bad karma (both thoughts and actions) even as they begin to appear.  With practice, your reaction time to stop such karma will get better and better.  Keep in mind that you are exactly accountable for all your bad karma.

We must practice this on a daily basis, as when caught up in the moment, we might get lost and carried away. By living with awareness, it gives us the ability to distinguish right from wrong action and the wisdom to avoid wrong actions.  

 

Listen to the stories with reverence; Reflect upon them deeply. After reflection, contemplate on them. This will bring great satisfaction. Shirdi Sai Baba Shri Sai Satcharita, The Life and Teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, Chapter 3, verse 18

 

Mantra:

Om, Sarve bhavantu sukhinaḥ
Sarve santu nirāmayāḥ
Sarve bhadrāṇi paśyantu
Mā kashchit duḥkha bhāgbhavet
Oṁ Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ

Meaning:

May all be prosperous and happy
May all be free from illness
May all see what is spiritually uplifting
May no one suffer
Om peace, peace, peace

 

This above mantra is from the Brihadaaranyaka Upanishad

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/seekingshanti/2015/09/hinduprayerforeveryone_globalgoals/

I would encourage all of you to please share your interpretations, learnings and experiences on how you have put this leela into practice.

 

 

Om Sai Ram.

Notes:

1)     http://www.holy-bhagavad-gita.org/chapter/2/verse/58

 

 

 

Chapter 12, Leela 5: A Doctor

Leela:

Once a Mamlatdar (public officer in charge of a district) came to Shirdi with a doctor friend of his. The Doctor was a righteous man, a great devotee of Lord Rama, and a scrupulous follower of tradition. He cautioned his friend that he would not be able to bow before a Muslim, and was reluctant go to Shirdi. The Mamlatdar replied that no one would press him to make a bow, and he so agreed to join him.

 

When they arrived in Shirdi, they went to the Masjid for Baba's darshan. The Mamlatdar was surprised to see the Doctor going ahead and saluting Baba. When asked why he forgot his resolve and bowed before a Muslim, the Doctor replied that he saw only the beautiful form of his beloved Lord Rama on the seat and therefore prostrated before Him.

 

As he was saying this, he saw Sai Baba on same the seat he had seen Lord Rama a moment ago. Being dismayed, he said, "Is this a dream? How could He be a Muslim? No, he is a great Yogasampanna (full of Yoga), an incarnation of God”.

 

The next day, the doctor made a vow to not step inside the Masjid unless Baba blessed him with his Grace, and began to fast. Three days passed and on the fourth day, a close friend from Khandesh, someone he hadn’t seen for nine years, turned up, and the doctor was very happy to see him.  Forgetting his vow, the doctor accompanied his friend into the Masjid for Baba's darshan.

 

After the salutation, Baba pointedly asked him whether anybody had gone to call him, so that he had come. Hearing this question, the doctor remembered his vow and was filled with sadness and regret.

 

The same night he was blessed by Baba and experienced the Supreme Bliss in his sleep. Then he left for home and experienced the same state for fifteen more days. Thus his devotion to Sai Baba increased manifold.

 

Based on Shri Sai Satcharita, The wonderful life and teachings of Shri Sai Baba, Translated by Nagesh Vasudev Gunaji (Mumbai: Shri Sai Baba Sansthan, Shirdi, 20^th Edition 2002), p70

Based on Shri Sai Satcharita, The Life and Teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba, G. R. Dhalbokar, Translated by Indira Kher (Slovenia: Bird Publisher, 2009), p99

 

Teachings from Leela:

1)    Spiritual practice is beyond worldly religions and worldly differences

Baba, who usually dressed as a Muslim, performed a miracle by appearing as Lord Rama to the doctor. By displaying the form of Lord Rama, Baba assured him that conventional forms and divisions in our physical world, such as physical appearance and clothing, and the allegiance to a specific religion, do not apply when it comes to God, and to spiritual pursuit. 

2)    When the student is ready, the Sadguru appears

The doctor was already on the path of spirituality and devoted to the Lord Rama. Baba revealed Himself to the doctor as his Sadguru, by giving him the vision of Lord Rama and by letting it be known that He was aware of the vow that the doctor thought was only his secret.

As mentioned in my previous blog, Chapter 49, Leela 1: Hari Kanoba, a true Sadguru never demands blind faith. He will never intimidate His devotees. He will never demand love and respect from them either, as they must be earned and a true Sadguru will surely earn them. Once such a Sadguru has taken a devotee under His wing, He will work with them, even if it takes many life-times, to help them in their spiritual journey to moksha.

Baba performed another miracle for the doctor by giving him the experience of the Ananda (Supreme Bliss), an aspect of satchitananda (Truth-Conscious-Bliss, a synonym for Brahman), for fifteen days straight.  He did this to establish and deepen the doctor’s shraddha in him.

3)    To make spiritual progress, you must have the discipline to follow through on your commitments

 

Via this leela, Baba wants us to realise the importance of discipline and commitment in our spiritual journey, which will also help us in our day to day lives to achieve our goals to become successful.

 

According to the Oxford Dictionary, commitment is a state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc.

Baba directly challenged the doctor by reminding him of his broken vow to not step in the Masjid. When we make commitments to ourselves, we often break them and come up with excuses for not being able to fulfill them. We must realise that we are accountable even for the commitments we make to ourselves. We must be very honest with ourselves in this regard, as it will not only help us achieve positive results, but also help us build a strong moral character.

When distractions appear, the strength of our conviction to maintain our commitments must stand up to them. Commitments towards our spiritual progress must not be taken lightly and must be followed through.

 

Putting into Practice

Here are some suggestions on how we could use this leela in our daily lives.

1)    Spiritual practice is beyond worldly religions and worldly differences  

Once on the spiritual path, you must distance yourself from divisions and conflicts between worldly religions. The competition and conflict between religions are a matter for the material world, and have nothing to do with spiritual development.

A major theme in Baba’s teachings was to maintain harmony between worldly religions, so that spiritual progress can be available to all.

As a seeker, you must seek knowledge and wisdom from wherever you can find them, question each for their merits, and in the end, either accept or reject them. Baba was also clear that you must not change your religious allegiance in order to be on the spiritual path. Accepting knowledge and wisdom from another tradition does not mean you have to change your religion.

2)    When the student is ready, the Sadguru appears

If you have found your Sadguru in Baba, you are fortunate.

If you haven’t found a Sadguru yet, don’t worry.  The right Sadguru will appear in your life at a time appropriate for your spiritual development, and will provide you the evidence you need to trust them.

Beware of false gurus. True Sadgurus will not demand anything of you.  They will instil shraddha in you through their actions, not through coercion. They live exemplary lives themselves, not surrounded by material luxuries, uncorrupted and with humility.

3)    To make spiritual progress, you must have the discipline to follow through your commitments

 

Have you made any commitment related to your spiritual progress? In today’s fast paced world, we are very busy making ends meet and our minds are pre-occupied. Spend some time to divert the attention of your mind towards your own spiritual progress and set goals for yourself. This will help you discipline your mind to shift its focus away from the rat race and spend some quality time dedicated to your spiritual practice. In the end what matters is how have you grown spiritually. Are you utilizing your time well in this lifetime?

 

When you make commitments towards your spiritual practice, they must be meaningful and significant. When you are about to make such a commitment, contemplate on its importance to you, and the stubborn resolve you must bring to ensure its fulfillment. 

It requires a lot of discipline to face the challenges you must face to fulfill your commitments. At times it will require you to work outside your comfort zone to achieve results. Do not hesitate to work hard and overcome these challenges by reminding yourself about the teachings of this leela and why Baba wants us to have the discipline to follow through our commitments.

Take some time and sit down quietly to reflect on the commitments you have made so far, and how many of them you were able to follow through to completion. If you were seriously committed, then chances are that you were successful. If not, then think about what you need to change to order to follow through with them.

 

Don’t be overly ambitious at first. Only take on spiritual commitments you can keep, and then keep them.  As you are successful with them, you can gradually become more and more ambitious.

 

Let us all make a commitment to make spiritual progress by dedicating some part of our everyday life, however small, to work towards it.

 

 

Mantra:

Om, Sarve bhavantu sukhinaḥ
Sarve santu nirāmayāḥ
Sarve bhadrāṇi paśyantu
Mā kashchit duḥkha bhāgbhavet
Oṁ Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ

Meaning:

May all be prosperous and happy
May all be free from illness
May all see what is spiritually uplifting
May no one suffer
Om peace, peace, peace

 

This above mantra is from the Brihadaaranyaka Upanishad

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/seekingshanti/2015/09/hinduprayerforeveryone_globalgoals/

I would encourage all of you to please share your interpretations, learnings and experiences on how you have put this leela into practice.

 

 

Om Sai Ram.